My 2025 Travel Recap: A Year of Adventure

As I sit here reflecting on 2025, I'm almost overwhelmed by how much ground I covered this year. From Caribbean turquoise waters to European cobblestones, from national park grandeur to coastal charm, this was truly a year of exploration. Here's a look back at the incredible journey.

Caribbean Paradise

Island hopping through some of the Caribbean's most stunning destinations was a highlight of the year. Bonaire's underwater world was everything I'd hoped for, with coral reefs that seemed to glow in impossible colors. Just a short hop away, Curaçao's pastel-colored buildings in Willemstad felt like stepping into a painting, and the blend of Dutch architecture with Caribbean warmth was utterly charming.

The Bahamas provided an interesting comparison point for Caribbean islands, while Turks & Caicos completely stole my heart with some of the most pristine, breathtaking beaches I've ever seen—the kind that redefine what "paradise" means. The British Virgin Islands delivered secluded coves and sailing adventures that felt like pure freedom, and Jamaica brought the energy with its vibrant culture, incredible food, and that unmistakable island rhythm.

European Escapades

Crossing the Atlantic, my European adventures took me to Spain and London. Spain offered a taste of what's to come in 2026, with its vibrant culture, incredible cuisine, and that relaxed Mediterranean pace of life that's impossible not to fall in love with. London brought that quintessential big city energy; bustling streets, world-class museums, iconic landmarks, and that ever-present royal mystique that gives the city its unique character.

American Adventures

Back stateside, I embarked on an epic tour of some of America's greatest natural wonders and most beloved cities. Big Sky, Montana offered breathtaking mountain vistas and a sense of wilderness that's increasingly rare. Yellowstone was absolutely awe-inspiring with its geysers, hot springs, and wildlife sightings that left me speechless. Yosemite's granite cliffs and waterfalls were every bit as majestic as the photographs suggest, maybe more so.

Vermont in July was lush and green, with hiking trails, charming small towns, and that quintessential New England character that makes the state so special. Charleston delivered Southern hospitality and history in equal measure, with its antebellum architecture and exceptional food scene. New York City was its usual electric self, reminding me why it's one of the world's great cities.

A trip to Mayakoba, Mexico allowed me to thoroughly explore this luxury resort destination, with its mangrove channels, pristine beaches, and world-class properties. California offered a stunning coastal journey through Santa Barbara's Spanish-colonial charm, the dramatic beauty of Pebble Beach, the laid-back sophistication of Monterey, and the endless energy of Los Angeles.

Scouting for the Future

Beyond the personal adventure, many of these trips served a dual purpose: scouting family-friendly properties and destinations for future travels. I found myself evaluating each location through a different lens, asking questions like: Are the beaches safe for kids? Are there resorts with kids' clubs and family suites? What activities would keep different age groups engaged?

Some destinations stood out as clear winners. The BVI and Turks & Caicos offered perfect combinations of calm waters, spacious villas, and water sports that families could enjoy together. Vermont's outdoor activities and cozy lodges seemed ideal for multi-generational trips. Charleston's walkability and rich history made it perfect for families wanting culture with convenience.

Even in places like Yellowstone and Yosemite, I found myself noting the ranger programs designed for children, the easy hiking trails, and the lodging options that could accommodate families. Whether traveling with my kids or exploring on my own, I was always evaluating destinations through a family lens, imagining how other families might experience these incredible places on their next great adventure together.

Reflections

Looking back, 2025 wasn't just about checking destinations off a list. It was about the moments in between: conversations with locals, unexpected detours that became highlights, meals that turned into memories, and the simple joy of experiencing something new. Each place offered its own lessons and left its own imprint.

I'm grateful for the ability to explore so much of our beautiful world this year. As I turn the calendar to 2026, I'm not just wondering where the next adventure will take me, I'm actively planning for it.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As a travel advisor, my work is deeply personal. While I learn tremendously from my talented teammates and colleagues, there's something invaluable about experiencing a destination firsthand. That personal knowledge makes my 2026 goals both exciting and purposeful.

First on the agenda is Spain in April, where I'll be traveling with my daughter. We'll be returning to Madrid before heading south to explore Seville's flamenco culture and stunning cathedral, discovering Málaga's blend of beach and city life, and experiencing the coastal elegance of Marbella. I'm eager to dive deeper into Andalusia's rich Moorish heritage and expand my knowledge of Spain's diverse regions.

Mid-year, I'm heading to South Africa for what I anticipate will be a transformative experience. Safari has become an increasingly popular request from clients, and I want to understand it intimately—the lodges, the game drives, the conservation efforts, the entire rhythm of being in the bush. There's no substitute for hearing a lion's roar at dawn or watching elephants at a watering hole yourself. Beyond the safari, I'll be exploring Cape Town's stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture, along with the renowned Winelands, where world-class vineyards meet breathtaking mountain landscapes.

Beyond these anchor trips, I'm committed to continuing my education about new destinations and properties. The travel landscape is always evolving, with new resorts opening, destinations becoming more accessible, and traveler preferences shifting. Staying current isn't just professional development; it's essential to serving my clients well.

Here's to a year well-traveled in 2025, and to the purposeful adventures that await in 2026.

Let's Plan Your Next Adventure

If any of these destinations sparked your curiosity or if you're dreaming of somewhere entirely different, I'd love to help you plan your next journey. Whether you're looking for that perfect family vacation, a romantic escape, or an adventure that pushes your boundaries, my job is to match you with experiences that will become your own cherished memories.

Travel is too precious to leave to chance. Let's create something extraordinary together. Email me or get on my calendar to chat!