My favorite aisle to walk down is on an airplane, headed to my first class seat (bougie, but paid for by maxed out credit card points), next to the window, and eagerly awaiting takeoff. I travel alot and 99% of the time, alone because I really don’t have time or the patience to deal with somebody else’s agenda.
And when I do travel I don’t want to go to the same insta slash influencer -saturated spots. I like to explore the hidden nooks and gems, the small towns that often get overlooked, the one-of-a-kind family owned spots, or the national park that really needs our love right now.
So from my Passport to yours, I hope you get the opportunity to explore and book these bucket list worthy spots for your next adventure, you’ll thank me later.
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Winter Retreats That Blend Nature, Comfort, and Meaningful Experiences
First on my radar is the Historic Arbor Day Farm which is absolutely breathtaking this time of year. Home to Lied Lodge, this 260-acre farm located in Nebraska City, Nebraska is home to one-of-a-kind family-friendly seasonal experience that combines holiday magic, outdoor adventure, and sustainability. Guests staying at the Lodge can decorate their own Christmas tree for a personalized holiday experience in their room! Enjoy seasonal dining & exclusive wine tastings, farm-to-table menus, and cozy lodge vibes make it the ultimate holiday escape. Not to mention, exploring winter beauty on scenic trails that invite guests to slow down and savor the season.
The best part? With every visit, guests support the Arbor Day Foundation’s mission by planting trees in forests that need them most, transforming a holiday retreat into an act of giving back to the planet.
For my sisters who love curling up with a London Fog tea and a good ol’ book, the All Booked Reading Retreat for Women is pure gold. Nestled in Windham in the Catskill Mountains of NY, in a luxurious log home, All Booked offers women a meaningful escape. Each retreat centers on a new, trending novel or memoir, and activities like forest bathing, mushroom picking, meditation under the stars, and vineyard hopping.They strive to be inclusive and will hold a spot every month at half price for any woman who might otherwise not be able to join.
Bucket-List Destinations for Solo Travelers and Holiday Enthusiasts
Are you a road trip warrior looking for a nature-filled getaway without giving up luxury? Then Ofland Escalante is calling your name. Located in Southern Utah within the Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument—and just 45 minutes from Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef—this retreat blends adventure with serious comfort. Choose from a Deluxe Cabin with a private bathroom and outdoor shower, a Tiny Cabin, or my favorite, a modern retro Airstream. No matter where you stay, you’ll enjoy stunning views of colorful desert landscapes and mountains lined with golden Aspen and Cottonwood trees. Bonus points: Ofland is pet-friendly, which this serial dog mom deeply appreciates. With DIY campfire meal kits, a pool, hot tub, retro drive-in, and spa-quality bathhouses, it’s a luxury escape you won’t find on Priceline.
If you’re feeling really festive this Holiday season, I suggest going to The Historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa. Renowned for its breathtaking holiday light collection with over 10 million dazzling lights and festive spirit, The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa’s Festival of Lights will commence on Saturday, November 22 and runs through the beginning of January. With over 10 million Christmas lights (the most in California), 100 Christmas trees, Candy Lane Store with international delights and Santa himself, this hotel is the best place to feel festive.
To elevate the holiday experience, The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is now offering festive holiday packages including Eat, Drink & Be Merry, Festival of Lights and Delights, Christmas Caroler’s Cheer, Holiday Elf Package, and Kensington Kelly Winter Wonderland Suite Package. These packages provide delightful culinary offerings, in addition to exclusive holiday amenities that will ensure an unforgettable stay at The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa during the Festival of Lights.
Sun, Sand, and Solo Adventure: The Ultimate Caribbean Retreat
Last but certainly not least, if you’re not in the mood to experience the cold harsh weather of winter, the snow, or Southern mix of slush and if you’re like me, you’re going to escape the winter blues and head to Lovango Resort & Beach Club which actually has an exclusive solo travel package that includes a three-night stay, airport transportation, a beach picnic, $100 daily resort credit, and access to the resort’s Beach Club and resort ferry.
Lovango Cay is located 10-minutes by boat from St Thomas and St John and is a private island resort and can only be accessed by boat, so it’s a safe destination with plenty of on-island activities that you won’t feel the need to leave. The resort has a mix of luxury treehouses, glamping tents and villas, as well as a Beach Club with two restaurants, a pool, lounge area(s), and even a small retail village. On the other side of the island is their private Crescent Beach, which offers snorkeling and beachside chaises with food & beverage service.
So what are you waiting for (besides the Government to open back up)? Put in your PTO, pack your bags, book the flight and go experience these one-of-a-kind places. You’ll thank me later.
Ashley-Victoria Smith
Serial entrepreneur, celebrity publicist, published author, swimwear designer, and creative director. Currently resides in the Queen City with her two rescue fur babies indulging in coffee, a good book, and Marvel movies.
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