The Beauty of France Goes Far Beyond Paris
As the weather cools, heading back to Paris might be on your mind. But don’t let the City of Light be the only stop on your visit to France. After exploring a new arrondissement or finally getting out to Pere Lachaise to wander amongst the greenery and gravestones of the famous, get on a train to see how intoxicating the rest of France can be.
Top Right: InterContinental Bordeaux Le Grand Hotel | Bottom Right: Bordeaux, France
A two-hour train ride south, escape to the vineyards of Bordeaux and its captivating medieval city. I can arrange tastings at your favorite vintages and book you into a boutique hotel amongst the Grand Cru grapes. Discover the city’s youthful energy (it’s home to two universities), its UNESCO heritage old town, and a fantastic museum of wine.
Head further south, about a four-hour train ride from Paris, and escape to Biarritz, the beach town favored by aristocrats and royalty. Pick up a pair of real espadrilles in the shops and wander down to the grand plage, the main beach, to watch surfers play in the waves, overlooked by grand châteaux that line the cliffs.
Top Right: Normandy | Bottom Right: Normandy – Photo Credit: Hôtel Saint-Delis
About a three-hour train ride north of Paris, the historic beaches of Normandy await. This is a chance to explore the region’s impressive museums and memorials that bring its storied past to life, before heading along the coast to the jaw-dropping island abbey of Mont St-Michel. Stay nearby for the night and rent a bicycle. The sea surrounds the abbey and the approach on two wheels is unforgettable.
If you are driving, continue farther south along the dramatic coastline into Brittany. This region is celebrated for its laid-back lifestyle, charming fishing villages, indulgent butter, and abundant seafood, making it a deliciously different taste of France.
Taste, explore, and wander your way across France. Your journey starts here.
My Own Private Island? Yes Please!
White sand, clear waters, and nothing but the sound of waves or a celebratory toast. A private island stay offers unmatched luxury, privacy, and a sense of exclusivity that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Some islands are reserved for full buyouts, perfect for celebrations or multigenerational escapes, while others welcome individual bookings yet still feel ultra-private thanks to limited capacity and thoughtful design. Private island travel today spans everything between intimate seven-suite retreats and expansive resorts with full exclusivity, making paradise more accessible than ever.
The Caribbean
Jumby Bay Island, Antigua
When Taittinger is the house Champagne, you know indulgence is a priority. This 300-acre island is car free, and guests explore by bike or golf cart. As an all-inclusive, it delivers relaxed island living alongside impeccable service, making it a favorite for both couples and families.
Booking type: Individual bookings
Necker Island, BVI
Owned by Sir Richard Branson, this legendary island hosts up to 48 guests and is typically booked as a private buyout. “Celebration Weeks” are open to individual travelers as well.
Booking type: Primarily full buyout; select individual weeks
South Pacific & Polynesia
The Brando, French Polynesia
Formerly Marlon Brando’s personal paradise, this atoll near Tahiti now hosts 35 beachfront villas. Guests enjoy complete privacy, A-list service, and a no-photo policy that protects everyone’s anonymity.
Booking type: Individual bookings
Kokomo Private Island, Fiji
Set in the Kadavu Islands, Kokomo offers 21 villas and residences, each with private pools. It is especially well-suited for travelers seeking adventure, with family-friendly programs, diving, and wellness experiences.
Booking type: Individual or full buyout
Africa & Asia
Miavana by Time + Tide, Madagascar
Fly in by helicopter and step into another world with lemur treks, oceanfront villas, and family-friendly programs. Perfect for both couples and multi-gen groups.
Booking type: Individual bookings or full buyout
Ariara Island, Philippines
Located in a remote corner of the Palawan region, this 125-acre island includes beachfront villas, a full team, and custom excursions for those who truly want to disappear.
Booking type: Full buyout only
Maldives & Australia
Velaa Private Island, Maldives
One of the most luxurious islands in the world, Velaa accommodates up to 80 guests and is available for exclusive use. Overwater bungalows, a golf academy, private submarines, and world-class cuisine set the stage for an unforgettable escape.
Booking type: Individual bookings or full buyout
Lizard Island, Australia
Set right on the Great Barrier Reef, this island resort can be fully booked for private groups. Enjoy direct reef access, 24 private beaches, and acclaimed cuisine.
Booking type: Individual bookings or exclusive use by request
Discover just how extraordinary a private island stay can be.
The One Thing Every Traveler Needs to Pack
It may not be as eye-catching as a new bathing suit or as shiny as rolling luggage, but packing travel insurance is one of the smartest things you can do before a trip.
Trip cancellation coverage helps when plans don’t go as expected. For a fraction of the trip cost, it can reimburse nonrefundable fees if a prepaid flight or tour gets cancelled. Trip interruption coverage is just as important. If you have to cut a vacation short, at least the missed portion can be refunded.
The most essential coverage is medical care on the road, including accidents, illnesses, and unexpected visits to clinics or hospitals. You may not plan on stepping on a sea urchin, but if it happens, insurance makes sure help is there when you need it.
I can help sort through the details and find a plan that fits your travel style. And don’t forget about luggage insurance, always a nice extra for added reassurance.
Peace of mind on your travels is essential.
Happy Travels!
