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One needs only an afternoon in France, to realize its romance. The sparkle of myriad fountains. The colors of stained glass streaming onto centuries old stone. The rhythm of leaves in long formal gardens, waving in a light breeze as if greeting friends. The gentle pour of rosé into a glass at a street side cafe. The silent gaze of masterworks displayed in museums all across the country. Art. Style. Fashion. Cuisine. Welcome to the unmatched romance of France. FRANCE One needs only an afternoon in France, to realize its romance. The sparkle of myriad fountains. The colors of stained glass streaming onto centuries old stone. The rhythm of leaves in long formal gardens, waving in a light breeze as if greeting friends. The gentle pour of rosé into a glass at a street side cafe. The silent gaze of masterworks displayed in museums all across the country. Art. Style. Fashion. Cuisine. Welcome to the unmatched romance of France. BRITTANY Mystical and Mythical NICE A Sensual Quality of Life PARIS A Curated List PROVENCE The Ultimate Painterly Landscape

Where the sky shines with a swanky glow and the beaches are steeped in casual glamour. MONTENEGRO Where the sky shines with a swanky glow, and the beaches are steeped in casual glamour. Drive along the Adriatic coastline as it winds its way south from Dubrovnik and watch as the rolling hillsides gradually turn into terraced rooflines and patio railings that sketch the outline of modern Montenegro. Just inland from Tivat, an incredible fjord reaches deep upstream, gradually tacking southeast to the ancient village of Kotor. Standing still in time, its Romanesque charm floats like the colorful vessels anchored at its waterfront. From here, venture further south, where the turquoise Adriatic meets the salt and pepper sands of Sveti Stefan, home to the extraordinary Aman Hotel , nestled atop its own island. Quite possibly the most captivating resort location ever. KOTOR A Medieval Jewel SVETI STEFAN Islet in the Sun

Islet in the Sun. Curled up on the shore like a curvaceous starlet, this arc of red and white sand is a sumptuous and cinematic dream come true. SVETI STEFAN, MONTENEGRO Islet in the Sun. Curled up on the shore like a curvaceous starlet, this arc of red and white sand is a sumptuous and cinematic dream come true. 15th Century Serenity The sand along this curve of the Montenegro coastline is a crunchy confetti in red, black and grey, ground to perfection through the ages by the Adriatic Sea. Sheltered in the calm beneath Sveti Stefan islet, the multicolored beach forms an irresistible bed for sunbathers. In the center of this idyll, a stone viaduct reaches out from the shore, providing passage to the tiny island that was once a fishing village, reincarnated today as an impeccable AMAN Hotel . ___ Photo by Aman Group Back DESTINATIONS Next

Explore a medieval magical wonder. Behind the formidable walls of this ancient city, there is a sense of openness that feels quite contemporary. An architectural treasure so dramatic it could be its own opera stage—not to mention being the set of Game of Thrones! DUBROVNIK, CROATIA Explore a medieval magical wonder. Behind the formidable walls of this ancient city, there is a sense of openness that feels quite contemporary. An architectural treasure so dramatic it could be its own opera stage—not to mention being the set of Game of Thrones! Timeless Old Town A city in cosplay, this walled medieval village is subject to visiting throngs of Thrones fans taking over the stone streets like scenes from a zombie film. The best way to avoid the invasion of fandom and cruise ship fodder is to rise very early and be among the first through the gates. What greets you then is a freshly rinsed wonder, protected through the ages by a battlement wall that beckons a 360 stroll. The streets and plazas in the center are like candy, enticing the visitor to try one more shop or cafe before closing the box. ___ SPOTLIGHT: Lady PiPi Lady PiPi noted for its playfully pornographic sculpture out front, and it’s freshly grilled delights inside, this patio-under-a-grape-arbor restaurant is the only eatery one needs to know within the walled city. Whole fish sizzle over aromatic wood fires, dutifully attended to and beautifully served. If there’s a wait, it’s worth it, giving one added time to ponder the inspiration for the artwork that “bares” the name, “pipi”. ___ Back DESTINATIONS Next

A stunning storybook town unfolds in the mist, revealing wedding cake castles and stone fortresses from ions past. Step into this fairytale world, just an hour’s train ride from modern Lisbon. SINTRA, PORTUGAL A stunning storybook town unfolds in the mist, revealing wedding cake castles and stone fortresses from ions past. Step into this fairytale world, just an hour’s train ride from modern Lisbon. Moor is More Just an hour by train from Lisbon, the Sintra Cultural Landscape , a UNESCO World Heritage Site is crowned by the expansive Castle of the Moors. Constructed between the 8th and 9th centuries, it ascends the hillsides like a creature from beneath the earth. Its stepped battlements give rise to scenes of marauding armies, relentlessly challenging it through generations. Today it stands open to all, beckoning visitors to traverse its ancient walls. ___ Pena Palace Across the hillsides from the Moorish Castle, the colorful facades of the National Palace of Pena emerge through the morning fog. Originally the residence of 9th century Islamic Moorish rulers, it was later captured by Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques, The Conqueror in the 12th century. The playful, present day melange of Gothic, Manueline, Moorish and Mudéjar architectural styles were added in the 15th and 16th centuries. Inside and out, the palace and it’s nearby gardens are a royal dazzle for the eye. Testament to its strategic hilltop-near-the-sea location, fog and mist add mystery to timeless charm. A feathered patrol paddles the meandering ponds like royal sentries while expressive gargoyles oversee the higher grounds. ___ Storybook Storefronts It’s not just about castles and royals in Sintra, as the townsfolk illustrate with genuine warmth. I am drawn to the little shops and cafes clustered along the hill where charm is rendered in tile mosaics on shop walls and spelled out on steps leading to their doors. ___ Quinta da Regaleira There are many extravagant palaces in Sintra whose soaring spires punctuate the sky, but this one points down 27-meters into the ground like an inverted tower. Imagine the dark, medieval dampness below ground as you descend the spiral staircase alone, blindfolded, a sword held close to your heart. Nine flights of stairs into the earth – a number that represents the nine founders of the mysterious Templar order, you reach the bottom of the well, not for water, but to walk the dark labyrinth trying to find your way back up towards the light. If you made it you were welcomed as a newly initiated member of the sect. Today, one’s initiation to Quinta da Regaleira includes a lesson in patience as you wait for the crowd to clear before snapping your cinematic moment on the spiral staircase. After all, patience is a virtue, even for Instagrammers. ___ Back DESTINATIONS Next

A medieval jewel set in a silvery fjord, hidden from time and the outside world. Its cobblestone paths are a crosshatch rendering of life in previous centuries. KOTOR, MONTENEGRO A medieval jewel set in a silvery fjord, hidden from time and the outside world. Its cobblestone paths are a crosshatch rendering of life in previous centuries. Stairway to Heaven Mount Lovcen slants straight down to sea level, framing the village like a theater curtain. One’s early morning hike, straight up a Roman era staircase, the Ladder of Kotor , is a view so sweeping it seems perched at the top of the sky. ___ Bay of Kotor The sensuous bay is host to all variety of vessels, from the world’s largest square-rigged sailing cruise ship, the Royal Clipper twinkling in its evening mooring, to the tiniest fishing boat that somehow stays afloat despite its ballast of two full-grown Montenegrins intent on catching their illusive dinner. ___ Kotor by Candlelight Stroll this walkable walled village through narrow stone lanes, each lined with curio shops, cafes and ample antique stores, beckoning one’s curiosity. At night, the plazas are luminescent with laughter and clinking glasses at The Square Pub as plans for the next day come together. ___ Back DESTINATIONS Next

Our top five favorite things to do in Big Bear Lake, California. 1 The Wilkie Cabin This rustic retreat with a modernist twist is one of Big Bear Vacations ' star rental cabins. Designed in the 60’s and hand-built over three decades, it now has a new kitchen, huge back deck, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 5 bunkbeds in the loft …and a zillion stars overhead. BIG BEAR LAKE, CA 2 Juniper Point Picnic in the scented shade of twisting old Juniper trees. Take a stroll along the lakeside meadow or an e-bike along the Alpine Pedal Path for a sweeping view of the lake in all its glory. Watch as the clouds slip by like floating castles, casting polka dot shadows on the forest peaks. BIG BEAR LAKE, CA 3 The Pines Lakefront A favorite daytime dining spot for its 180° lake view, this sunny beer-on-tap terrace is a lovely place for a leisurely mile-high lunch, alfresco. Arrive by car or by boat! Have some flatbread pizza with a variety of craft beers and watch the day go by. BIG BEAR LAKE, CA 4 Woodland Interpretive Loop This charming trail is good for all ages and staminas. Pets too, (safely on a leash). Numbered points of interest describe the tree types, rocks, and wildlife seen along the way, as the terrain and flora changes dramatically with each turn. BIG BEAR LAKE, CA 5 Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk Discover a wetland ecosystem that attracts a wide variety of birds, from ducks and geese to herons and hawks. This 145-acre preserve offers a peaceful escape and a peek at the workings of nature, as seen from a wooden boardwalk/pier. An easy 1.6 mile round trip. BIG BEAR LAKE, CA Back FIVE FAVES Next

A travel journal exploring the personality of places, focusing on distinct destinations and curated highlights. A travel journal exploring distinct destinations and curated highlights—with more coming soon! Also see FIVE FAVES , our top five picks in the places we love. Explore from A-Z by CITY. ALGARVE, PORTUGAL BIG BEAR LAKE, CA BRITTANY, FRANCE CA ROUTE 66 CAVTAT, CROATIA COIMBRA, PORTUGAL DOURO RIVER, PORTUGAL DUBROVNIK, CROATIA EVORA, PORTUGAL HOLLYWOOD, CA, US KAUAI, HAWAII KOTOR, MONTENEGRO KYOTO, JAPAN LISBON, PORTUGAL MÉXICO CITY, MÉXICO NICE, FRANCE OAHU, HAWAII OMIS, CROATIA PARIS, FRANCE PORTO, PORTUGAL PROVENCE, FRANCE SINTRA, PORTUGAL SPLIT, PORTUGAL SVETI STEFAN, MONTENEGRO TAMARINDO, MEXICO

Our top five favorite things to do in the modern and medieval city of Porto, Portugal. 1 Jardim De Morro at Sundown This view never leaves one's heart, just across the Rua General Torres bridge from the historic center. Make it a picnic with wine and cheese from Dourum Restaurante . PORTO, PORTUGAL 2 Portuguese Centre of Photography Formerly a prison in which children were among the incarcerated, this remarkable space now offers vision and light, where there was once only darkness. PORTO, PORTUGAL 3 Armazém Luxury Housing A 19th century iron warehouse in Porto’s historic centre now houses the Armazém hotel. Just 9 dreamy and inventive guest rooms and 3 apartments comprise this unique property near to the Ribeira district. PORTO, PORTUGAL 4 Funicular Dos Guindais This heart-stopping railway-meets-rollercoaster makes a very vertical descent on its express route from the heights of Centro Historico down to the waterfront. PORTO, PORTUGAL 5 Clérigos Tower & Parque Dos Clérigos The winding climb inside the sinewy tower is rewarded with a stunning 360 view of Porto. Directly below is the delightful lounge-meets-city-park, Parque dos Clérigos. PORTO, PORTUGAL Back FIVE FAVES Next

Explore the wonder of this worldy city whose welcoming expanse of the Rio Tejo celebrates the explorers who launched their wooden galleons from this very spot in the 15th century in search of the New World. LISBON, PORTUGAL Explore the wonder of this worldy city whose welcoming expanse of the Rio Tejo celebrates the explorers who launched their wooden galleons from this very spot in the 15th century in search of the New World. FIVE FAVES / LISBON The Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology MAAT seems to have just landed like a graceful bird upon this modern gateway to the city. The subjects of art, architecture and technology come together all under one incredible roof. From atop, one beholds a 180 degree view of the river, while just below, an arc of terraced steps offer another perfect perch. ___ Belém Tower All roads (and tiled sidewalks) lead to the the river that launched a thousand dreams. Belém Tower, or the Tower of St. Vincent is a 15th century fortification that symbolized the Portuguese maritime accomplishments of the 15th century. The tower stands at the mouth of the Tagus river, initially as a defense garrison and now as the ceremonial gateway to Lisbon. ___ The Cultural Centre of Belém Across Avenida de Brasília from the fabled Lisbon waterfront, one may discover a new world of contemporary art and innovative architecture. Remarkable exhibits and music await an afternoon’s indulgence at the aforementioned MAAT and, just across the highway, at The Cultural Centre of Belém . This large building houses The Berardo Collection Museum which features various indoor and outdoor galleries exhibiting impressive collections (and the occasional al fresco film screening). Open every day for art lovers —and true loves. Rejuvenate alfresco, at Este Oeste Pizza and Sushi , soaking up its sunny rooftop terrace, reasonably priced delights —and some good rosé! ___ Cross Over, Children! While Lisbon lazes about on its beautiful north shore of the Rio Tejo, a short ferry ride across to the Almada side delivers an even more laid back vibe. What looks like an abandoned waterfront, lined with the remains of old buildings, is surprisingly full of life, delightfully lubricated with Vino Verde’s and serving up unforgettable alfresco dining and sensational views. Best to make a reservation because this quaint discovery hidden away on the ancient docks is actually quite popular, Ristorante Ponto Final and Atira-te ao Rio Restaurante. ___ Pastéis de Nata One of the true pleasures of travel is discovering local edible wonders such as Portugal’s own Pastéis de Nata. Tiny custard tarts that all too easily fit between the thumb and forefinger, enjoyed with an espresso. The much heralded home of these traditional treats is Pastéis de Belém , with its centuries-old secret recipe attributed to kitchen-wizard monks from the Jerónimos Monastery. Understated from the outside, the bakery is a haven of delight on the inside, —indeed a metaphor for their famous bite size treasures. ___ Views from Above The highest point in Lisbon welcomes you not with a herald of bells but with a ringing view of the city. Established in the 1st century BC, the fortification sits atop a steep hillside, crowning the cobbled twists and turns of the Alfama neighborhood. Lisbon is a collection of views awarded to those whose knees can endure the ascent and/or descent. The bell tower of Castelo de Sao Jorge is one such reward, atop the highest hill in the city. Well worth the climb, the fortress defends a 360 panorama of the city and its sparkling River Tagus. One may avoid the multitude of steps, reaching it via taxi or transit, but where’s the sport in that? A fun way to cheat Lisbon’s relentless climbs is the Santa Justa Lift , the Eiffel Tower of Lisbon, (in fact, designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel) was built in 1901. Rising seven stories straight up, its chief purpose is augmenting hundreds upon hundreds of steps to the top of the commanding hill above the Baixa district. ___ Paved in Art Portugal’s ultimate, treasured tradition is tile. Mosaics are everywhere, shimmering on walls and inlaid into sidewalks, illustrating the history and spirit of this stunning country. ___ Stairway to Heaven Zigzag your way up numerous M.C. Escher-esque staircases, or simply elevate yourself aboard the aforementioned Santa Justa Lift to alight upon one of the coolest sights ever, the Carmo Archaeological Museum . A former convent built in 1389, where the heavens are truly part of the place, due to the roof having collapsed in the great Lisbon earthquake of 1755. Now a stunning indoor/outdoor museum with exhibits related to the history of Lisbon from pre-historic times through to the Middle Ages. The gift shop, with its tall windows looking across the city to the Castle is, in itself, worth the trek. ___ Reaching New Heights As the sun goes down, the music comes up on rooftops all across town. Some packed with revealers dancing with both hands signaling the night sky, some quaint (and comparatively quiet) with a half dozen wealthy winos raising toasts. And, on some hilltop terrace, a lone guitarist frets in Portuguese about a girl who is now likely up on the first rooftop. But it’s not all about imbibing and talking rubbish on rooftops. The night also invites the more bookish to indulge in words of the wise. Ler Devagar Bookstore , with shelves stacked to the high ceiling glows from the inside as it beckons passerby to open a new chapter. ___ Inclined to Enjoy The sidewalks of Lisbon dutifully conform to the city’s hillsides, transforming a level (tile-lined) avenue into a challenging set of stairs, ever upward. Lisbon is not for the faint-of-knee, or ankle. But for those not hampered by lower-extremity limitations, it’s an incredibly beautiful city with rewarding views and points of interest at each summit. Count on stairs being part of any walking tour and for that reason, consider visiting Lisbon in the spring or fall because who wants to traverse stairs under an unrelenting summer sun, or the bracing chill of winter? Regardless of the weather, one can always take the yellow trolley and save one’s knees for another day of exploring this romantic city, home to the very term “explorer”, as the launching port for the Age of Discoveries. Often, what we seek in travel is ascent for the mind and soul. In Lisbon, it's literal. Climb to reach a restaurant, a bar, a club. Climb your way to the pinnacle of Lisboa's Boheme groove. ___ Back DESTINATIONS Next