Wieteke Maris

While Santorini and Mykonos have their iconic sunsets and Instagram-perfect spots, Naxos is where you’ll find the true heart of the Cyclades. It is unfiltered, a lot less crowded and full of understated charm. This isn’t just another typical Greek getaway (though I’m all for the clichés — whitewashed villages, fresh feta and ouzo). Naxos is different. It’s a vibrant mix of history, culture and beautiful landscapes that pulls you in without the need for the flashy lights of its more popular neighbors. Here, you can find ancient ruins next to bustling villages, serene beaches and even TikTok-famous cliff-jumping spots that we discovered thanks to my adventurous kids.

Every summer, my sons and I embark on our journey from Brooklyn to Amsterdam to visit family. However, last summer, we decided to spice things up with a stopover in Iceland. What began as a simple detour quickly transformed into an unexpectedly captivating mini road trip through the land of fire and ice. Iceland took my breath away with its distinctive landscapes and overwhelming nature. It is one of the most unique places I have visited, especially nature-wise. Iceland is a fabulous trip all on its own or the perfect prelude to a longer European vacation.

Vibrant cities, serene deserts and timeless charm.

Morocco holds a special place in my heart. From my early days as a backpacker exploring its vibrant streets to luxurious FAM trips and even leading small art-focused group tours, I’ve experienced this enchanting country in all its forms. Whether you’re seeking culture, adventure or pure relaxation, Morocco offers it all. And with United Airlines now offering non-stop flights from New Jersey to Marrakech, getting there has never been easier. For East Coasters, it’s officially within weekend getaway territory — and trust me, you’ll want to go.

Between luxe hotel stays, the sensory overload of the souks and the breathtaking Atlas Mountains, Morocco is calling. Let me help you answer.

The Equinox Hotel is a luxury urban oasis. This was a wintery romantic staycation for us and it was perfect. We loved the serene vibe, the focus on wellness and the unique location in Hudson Yards. We will absolutely return and highly recommend it to romantics, solo travelers, staycationers and business travelers.

My ideal girls trip combines exploration with relaxation, offering a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. We spent two days immersed in the culture of historic Valladolid before escaping to Isla Holbox for four days of pristine beaches and vibrant local culture. Perfection!

Nestled in the heart of the Riviera Maya, Chablé Maroma is a luxurious sanctuary that seamlessly blends natural beauty with unparalleled comfort. My husband and I had the pleasure of spending five days at this breathtaking resort in January, escaping the freezing cold of New York City for a magical experience. Here’s an account of our stay, which I hope will inspire and guide future travelers.

Get ready to join me on a magical, art-inspired journey through the heart of France. This itinerary, born from my adventures guiding fellow art enthusiasts, is a fusion of the sophisticated art scenes of Paris and the artistic soul of Provence. Each day unfolds leisurely and inspires you as you discover unique places, encounter incredible art, and savor mouthwatering dishes.

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a wonderful blend of the Mediterranean world. The strategic location of Sicily has made it a melting pot of civilizations, evident in its diverse cuisine, architecture and traditions. So rather than going straight to Taormina’s touristy "White Lotus" filming spots, why not explore this island’s rugged, beautiful soul? Take in the beauty of its beaches, the mystical presence of ever-looming Etna and excessive amounts of ricotta-filled cannoli. Sicily can be a destination in itself, or combine it with the Amalfi Coast or Puglia.

Heat, adventure and endless horizons. This summer, my family and I spent over two incredible weeks exploring Baja California Sur. It was a land of extremes: scorching heat, rugged roads, pristine beauty and hidden gems. If you’re curious about Cabo San Lucas, you won’t find it in this article (though I’ve got plenty of tips if you’re interested — just shoot me an email). Instead, let me take you off the beaten path.