Jane Hermstedt

This Parador itinerary is a journey through the soul of Spain, where each stay is a living museum and every landscape tells a story. From a medieval castle in Sigüenza to the golden skyline of Toledo, the route culminates at the Parador de Santiago de Compostela, founded in 1499 and considered the oldest operating hotel in the world. It’s not just about where you go, but how deeply you experience it. This is slow travel at its most meaningful — rooted in place, culture, and timeless beauty.

Unlock the beauty of Italy through the lens of mathematics on this 10-day journey designed for the endlessly curious. From the geometric genius of Brunelleschi’s dome to the hidden gem of MathEureka, a whimsical museum in the Apennines where puzzles and illusions bring math to life, you’ll explore how numbers shaped Renaissance art, architecture and innovation. Walk in the footsteps of da Vinci and Galileo, discover elegant symmetry in piazzas and palaces and savor rich Italian culture along the way. This is not just a trip — it’s a celebration of intellect, wonder and the enduring elegance of numbers.

This immersive three-day itinerary explores Edinburgh’s dark, royal and wild sides. Wander haunted closes and shadowy alleys by day, then dine in gothic splendor by candlelight. Step aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, hike volcanic hills and meet rare native ponies in the Pentlands. A hands-on cooking experience brings it all together — with shortbread, soup, a taste of haggis and a spirited recitation of Robert Burns’ Ode to a Haggis. Designed for curious travelers, this is Edinburgh at its most atmospheric, storied and alive.

Underground rivers, volcanic islands, cliffside castles, and Roman ruins by the sea—this is the Mediterranean as you’ve never seen it. While most travelers rush between Valencia and Barcelona, they miss the incredible stretch of coastline that lies in between. I live here, and I’ve mapped out a 2-week road trip that winds through thermal springs, medieval towns, hidden beaches, and cliffside castles that rarely make it into guidebooks. If you’re ready to go beyond the tourist trail and explore the wild, beautiful, and often overlooked heart of coastal Spain, this itinerary is for you.

Iceland is a land where the earth feels alive, where volcanoes breathe steam into the sky and lava fields stretch like ancient scars. This itinerary was born from a deep fascination with the raw, elemental power of our planet and the sense of wonder that volcanic landscapes ignite. I designed this experience for curious travelers who crave not just beauty, but the stories written in stone and steam. From magma chambers to hidden valleys, it is a journey through Iceland’s living geology, elevated by comfort, insight, and awe.

Our family's transatlantic voyage aboard the Queen Mary 2 was an unforgettable experience of slow travel, where the ship itself became the destination. For seven days, we sailed across the Atlantic, enjoying timeless luxury — including afternoon tea at 3:30 pm, formal dinners and even ballroom dancing. I bought my son his first sport jacket for the trip, and he looked like such a young gentleman in it! The elegance of the Queen Mary 2, from its grand library to lectures on maritime history, made the trip feel unusual and special. As a family, we embraced the journey together. We took watercolor painting classes and fencing lessons, played paddle tennis on the deck and watched for whales every afternoon from the hot tub. It was a beautifully slow, shared adventure that we really savored. For those seeking a different kind of getaway, this voyage across the Atlantic offers something rare — a chance to slow down, reconnect and immerse yourself in the simple elegance of life at sea.

Discover the summer magic of Argentina's Patagonian Lake District through the eyes of a local! After living in this rugged paradise for two years, I’ve crafted a seven-day adventure itinerary that captures the essence of this spectacular region. You’ll golf at the iconic Llao Llao hotel, kayak into hidden coves on the glacial Nahuel Huapi Lake, ride horses across the steppes where Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid once roamed, hike trails where condors soar above, paraglide over breathtaking landscapes and tackle white-water river rapids in crystal-clear waters. Ready for an unforgettable week of outdoor adventures in one of the world’s most beautiful places? Vamos!

Halfway between Norway and Iceland, the sub-Arctic Faroe Islands are visited by just 40,000 people annually. Intrepid travelers who venture to these islands experience raw natural beauty and a modern culture steeped in rich Viking history. You can hike along rugged coastlines, passing quaint villages, to see the spectacular Múlafossur waterfall plunging into the ocean. Embark on boat safaris in search of adorable puffins, or take a surf lesson in one of the northernmost spots in the world. Indoors, you can enjoy traditional Faroese music and the centuries-old chain dance at cultural centers, and even in local pubs if you’re lucky. Dining on Faroese cuisine, you might sample wind-dried mutton in a traditional grass-roofed restaurant. The Faroe Islands' stunning nature and distinct culture offer an unparalleled experience for travelers in search of the wildest spots on Earth.

Having spent two years in this enchanting corner of Patagonia, I can confidently say it's one of the most stunning ski destinations you'll ever encounter!

If you are a skier from the Northern Hemisphere dreaming of summer slopes, look no further than majestic Argentine Patagonia, with its Cerro Catedral Ski Resort. Situated in the picturesque town of Bariloche, Cerro Catedral is the largest ski resort in South America. It offers 3,000 acres of varied terrain with epic views of the snow-capped Andes, pristine glacial lakes and the untamed Patagonian wilderness.

To complete your Patagonian adventure, consider a stay at the iconic Llao Llao Hotel. This historic gem has welcomed notable guests such as former US President Barack Obama, actors Robert Duvall and Tommy Lee Jones and filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola.

Whether you’re carving down the slopes, indulging in a hearty steak or soaking in the breathtaking views, Bariloche offers an amazing experience for winter travelers!

Winter in the Shetland Islands is a season like no other — a time when untamed beauty, rich history and vibrant culture come together in the most captivating ways. In this guide, I’ve curated the best experiences that make Shetland in winter truly magical. For those who crave immersive history, cultural depth and adventures off the beaten path, Shetland is an under-the-radar gem. The Shetland Viking Fire Festival, or Up Helly Aa, is a once-in-a-lifetime event that combines the drama of Viking lore with the stunning raw beauty of Scotland’s landscapes. But that’s just the beginning. From witnessing the Northern Lights — locally known as the "Mirrie Dancers" — to spotting orcas along the rugged coastline and meeting the charming Shetland ponies in their natural habitat, Shetland offers experiences that linger long after you’ve left. This guide is your gateway to discovering Shetland’s hidden treasures, from exploring dramatic landscapes and encountering unique wildlife to enjoying a cozy pub where traditional folk music adds a lively, local touch. For a truly unforgettable adventure, plan your visit for the end of January to experience both the Viking Fire Festival and the lively Burns Night celebrations.

Bariloche might just be the most beautiful place on Earth. Nestled in Patagonia, this stunning destination is centered around the massive glacial Nahuel Huapi Lake, which comes alive in summer. Whether swimming in its crystal-clear waters, kayaking, fly fishing, or kitesurfing, there are endless outdoor activities. The surrounding area offers even more adventure, from white-water rafting to the unforgettable Seven Lakes Drive through pristine landscapes. Horseback riding across the Patagonian steppes, where legends like Butch Cassidy once roamed, provides a unique connection to this rugged land. World-class hiking trails let you fully appreciate the region’s natural beauty. And don't miss the iconic Llao Llao Hotel, a destination with its luxurious charm and breathtaking setting. Bariloche is easily accessible with its own international airport, making it a convenient gateway to this enchanting part of Patagonia. After living here for two years, trust me that summer in Bariloche is pure magic.