Newsletter: Summer Hot Spots for 2026

Newsletter: Summer Hot Spots for 2026

This summer the Mediterranean is going to be hotter than ever. Check out these gorgeous locations that need to be on your radar for an incredible jaunt during the summer months into September.

Mallorca: Adventure travel in Mallorca continues to grow with specialist operator offering a range of open-air experiences throughout the island’s dramatic Tramuntana Mountains. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for rugged trails, coastal vistas and active outdoor experiences. Days hiking and cycling the mountains effortlessly meld with relaxed boat excursions through pristine turquoise coves. You will discover a perfect blend of adventure and naturally serene living on this Spanish island.

Sardinia: Alongside Mallorca, Sardinia (top photo) is also emerging as a standout among Mediterranean destinations. Sardinia boasts some of the finest beaches in Italy, such as those on the Costa Smeralda in the north, featuring white sand and turquoise waters. Sardinia’s crystal waters, refined beach clubs and authentic culinary traditions attract travelers who seek understated Italian luxury. A relaxing visit to Sardinia may explain why the region has been recognized as one of the world’s five “Blue Zones” known for the health and longevity of its residents.

Hvar: Not far from Sardinia, Croatia’s Adriatic coastline is gaining renewed interest with Hvar (photo below) leading the way as a sophisticated island base. Hvar sits in the heart of Croatia’s southern coast with excellent ferry and catamaran connections to Dubrovnik, Split, Lastovo and more, making it an ideal starting point for a wider Adriatic escapade. Spend a few days enjoying Hvar’s lively harbor, historic stone streets and relaxed seaside vibe before venturing onward to the walled beauty of Dubrovnik, the Roman heritage of Split or the cinematic charm of Vis. You’ll fall for Hvar instantly and it’s worth staying at least three nights to truly experience it’s magic.

Where does a travel advisor go on vacation?

As a travel advisor who loves to see the world and gets to spend many weeks each year in various locations around the globe for “work,” deciding on a spot for my personal time off is a special treat. Last month, Napa Valley provided the perfect escape! My husband Steve and I visited the Auberge de Soleil in Northern California and found a true oasis of elevated luxury.

Nestled within a terraced, sun-kissed hillside amid 33 acres of heritage olive and oak trees, the hotel’s 50 contemporary guestrooms and suites effortlessly blend relaxed sophistication with understated elegance, earning a long-standing reputation as wine country’s most iconic luxury property.

The resort’s lovely French ambiance hosts an onsite eatery that created one of my personal Top 10 meals ever. At “The Restaurant” (the actual name), we had a private terrace with a breathtaking view of the surrounding Napa Valley hillsides and olive groves. Dinner at The Restaurant is a true event with a Mediterranean-meets-California menu that is sure to delight gastro travelers. My meal was a beautifully presented cow’s milk burrata, Meyer Lemon risotto and Japanese Wagyu that I am still thinking about weeks later!

The property itself is lovely with a beautiful outdoor sculpture garden that showcases more than 100 Californian artists in a sprawling, bucolic setting. The Spa is one of the best in the area. The resort’s beautifully decorated rooms are furnished with a fireplace, forming an idyllic place to unwind and relax at the end of the day. Our stay was lovely. The amazing dining, incredible wine tasting options and gorgeous scenery made us fall in love this the resort and the area in a whole new way. The hotel’s tag line of “Inspired by the south of France. Infused with California soul,” promises you will, too!

Discover Switzerland’s premier mountain lodging reimagined

Gstaad, Switzerland, the home of the area’s first luxury hotel (dating to 1910) is under renovation, ready to return under the luxury auspices of the Four Seasons brand. An extensive renovation led by designer Joseph Dirand to reimagine the Park Gstaad Hotel in an totally new way. Expect a restored Alpine-glam aesthetic, indoor/outdoor pools, a destination spa, ice rink, tennis, ski services and Kids For All Seasons.

Opening: Late 2026

Couples Trip Ideas

Trips to Paris and Normandy are top destinations for my clients every year and it’s easy to see why. This dream trip is a wonderful getaway for a couple but also a crowd-pleaser for families.

One location is extra special for many romantic trips. Just beyond Paris, the Champagne region offers a celebratory addition to any couples’ itinerary. Private visits to renowned houses like Dom Pérignon orLouis Roederer, paired with Michelin-starred dining and spa retreats, create moments of pure indulgence layered with history. From royal coronations at Reims Cathedral to the rolling vineyard landscapes shaped by centuries of tradition, a visit to this area checks all the boxes. For those seeking even more romance, the Loire Valley’s fairy-tale châteaux and vineyard-lined cycling paths provide an enchanting extension only a short journey away.

No matter where your heart takes you, a well-planned French excursion is sure to delight you and your partner!

Just about the best part of being a travel advisor is going on scouting trips. These specially designed trips provide me with the opportunity to visit new and return locations to check out new hotels, take excursions and learn all about the culture in unfamiliar regions. This helps me build knowledge and learn the ins and outs of a location, which helps me provide my clients with the most up-to-date advice.

In 2026 I am off to Italy (twice), London, Madagascar and Vienna to explore some new and favorite destinations. Where are you ready to go? Let’s get together to discuss. As always, I wish you happy travels!