Angela Marini

I recently went on a Windstar cruise and it was my first small ship cruise. My ship, the Windsurf, had a maximum of 300 people. Their two other sailing ships hold a maximum of 150 passengers. I chose the Yachtsman’s - Harbors of the Rivieras itinerary for my trip.

I love Charleston for many reasons. It is a short, reasonably priced flight for all of us in the Northeast. I also adore the Southern culture and the weather and many will agree with me that the food is amazing. Charleston's food scene is off the charts. I am not kidding. It is the perfect escape for a long weekend whether it is a couples trip or a girls trip- you can't go wrong visiting this treasure of a city.

With so many hidden treasures, it is hard to experience them all in one trip. It is a perfect honeymoon or couples' getaway. There is a feeling in Sicily that gives it a uniqueness from mainland Italy. There is a broad spectrum of culture and history and it seems everyone wanted to make Sicily their home for centuries. Greek and Arab culture is as alive in Sicily as the most amazing Italian culture so many of us love so much. There is amazing food, beautiful churches, coastlines, countryside and amazing small villages that will make your journey unforgettable. A Sicily, Italy, honeymoon promises to be romantic, beautiful and perfect.

I had been wanting to go to Nevis for years. As a loyalist to Anguilla, it took me a while to finally pull the trigger and plan my trip to Nevis. I am so glad I did! The best part about Nevis is that it is still an island that is one of those IYKYK type of places. When someone first thinks of a Caribbean vacation, Nevis might not be the first island to come to mind. There are no big airports, and you have to arrive by boat from St. Kitts. It is green and lush, and the Nevis Peak volcano is viewable from every part of the island. There are hills and valleys, and Nevis has so much to offer. I think the one thing that made the deepest impression on me was the people. I have never met kinder, more lovely people than those who reside in Nevis. They talk to you and are really interested in what you have to say. They want to learn about you and want you to learn about them. Nevis has found a special place in my heart, right next to Anguilla. In fact, Anguilla used to be a part of St. Kitts & Nevis until it became independent years ago. Nevis is relaxed, quiet, beautiful and lush, and has a food scene that pretty much shocked me. One restaurant was nicer than the other and, quite frankly, I can't wait to go back.

There is no place in the world more special than the Amalfi coast in Italy. There I said it. I just keep going back. All of Italy is special for that matter, but the Amalfi coast just speaks to me. The culture, the food, the people and the beauty - oh the beauty - are everything you would expect. I don't like an Italy trip full of tours, I prefer building an itinerary that is full of culture, unique experiences and incredible dining options. This can be created for an endless budget or a specific budget. There is a way to make Italy special for everyone.

Rome is one of my favorite cities on earth. Where else can you be in the middle of a city and when you turn a corner you see an ancient ruin that is thousands of years old? Rich in history and beauty, Rome is one of those cities you will never forget. My personal favorite neighborhood is Via Veneto. Not far from the Spanish Steps, Via Veneto oozes luxury. There are amazing five star hotels every few steps. Lined with trees and cafes, there is much to see and do and this is a wonderful neighborhood to make your base. In just a few days you can get a feel for everything Rome has to offer and I am certain you will want to return.

The Amalfi Coast is made up of many small towns along the coast. Although not technically part of the Amalfi Coast, I like to include Sorrento as part of that because it is just too nice to not be included. As you drive the coastline with its cliffs and rocks, you stumble upon views you only see in movies. You can travel this coast on a budget or go all out and 5-star all the way. Whichever way you decide, one thing you must splurge on is a boat excursion to see Capri and the coast from the water. Diving into the waters off the coast of Capri will just change your day and be the highlight of your trip. Local restaurants and agriturismos (farms) will cook you the most amazing food you have ever eaten. You don't have to spend a fortune on food for it to be mind-blowing. I can design a trip on any budget as I have traveled this coast and made many contacts and friends along the way.

Last November, I had the most amazing trip to London and Paris. This trip was a year in the making and certainly didn't disappoint. There were four of us (my three adult daughters and myself) and we created memories that will last a lifetime. This guide can be for friends, couples, girls trips or mother-daughter trips. We traveled at the beginning of the holiday season, which definitely helped to get ourselves into the holiday spirit!

London has something for everyone. After spending three nights there, we hopped on the Eurostar and were off to Paris. Two hours later we were in a new country with new traditions and, as an American, that always amazes me.

From my experience, if you are limited on the amount of time you can be away, three nights in each city certainly gives enough of a taste that you will be satisfied with just enough of an itch to return.

Marrakech is one of the most unique places I have ever visited. It is like living in two worlds- both past and present. This amazing city was once a vacation destination for mostly Europeans but Americans have finally caught on to everything this city has to offer. Morocco as a whole has so much to offer for every type of traveler and Marrakech is a perfect stop to make a part of your holiday. Whether camel riding in the desert, shopping at the Medina, or laying by the beautiful pools there is just something for everyone. Immersed in a culture that teaches about patience, love and tolerance- it just keeps on giving. Every moment a learning experience and every day a wonder. It is no coincidence that this little country in Northern Africa has taken the world by storm and it is something everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.

Saint Barth's is like no other island in the Caribbean. It is like you have been transported to the French Riviera. Think St. Tropez, but not so far from home. It is a jet-setter's paradise and always has been. This mountainous island is home to some of the most luxurious hotels and some of the finest dining and nightlife in the world. The main language is French but most of the people speak English as well. On the second part of your stay, you will head to Anguilla where you will rest and recharge before going home. Anguilla is another small island but it is every bit of Caribbean, and not a drop of French but just as exclusive. You can't go wrong with any of the hotels on either island, but I have my favorites.