5 Things I Never Skip When Planning My Own Trip

Because every trip deserves a little magic—and a lot of good food!

1. Stay where the good stuff is

Sure, the hotel photos may be dreamy—but I always dig a little deeper.
Is it so central that I’m going to walk out into crowds every day? What kinds of spots am I close to? Can I walk to a beautiful park or catch a sunset without hopping in a car?

I look for locations that are quiet little treasures—close to the heart of the place. A good location turns a trip from "nice" to memorable.

2. Leave space for the unexpected

I may be a planner at heart, but I’ve learned to always build in what I call “magic margins.”

That means unscheduled time to wander a street that looks charming, sip wine in the middle of the day, or follow a recommendation from a local. Some of my favorite travel memories started as unplanned moments—and they’re always better than anything I could’ve put on an itinerary.

3. Book one experience you won’t find online

This is my secret sauce—and the fun part of being a Travel Advisor with access to exclusive experiences.

I always book one “how-did-you-even-find-this” moment:
A private pasta-making class with a nonna in a tucked-away Italian village. A secret supper club in Paris. A sunrise paddle with a local naturalist.

It doesn’t have to be over-the-top. It just has to feel unforgettable.

4. Dig into the food scene (this is non-negotiable)

The foodie in me always does her homework. I have my favorite apps to research restaurants, local markets, and hidden gems like I’m prepping for a final exam. 😂

I tend to look for little hidden places with mouthwatering meals and stories, not just stars. That tiny tapas bar tucked behind a cathedral? Yes, please. I always make a short list of “must-eats,” but I also leave room to follow locals recommendations.

5. Choose one splurge-worthy moment

A little indulgence and a lot of intention… I pick at least one luxury experience that energizes me.
Maybe it’s a splurge night in a boutique hotel, a private charter, or that dreamy five course meal with a view.

That one splurge adds richness to the whole trip—it’s a reminder that you’re worth it, and that joy is a worthwhile investment.

Whether you’re planning a girlfriends weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trip, I hope this inspires you to plan with heart, curiosity, and a little bit of boldness.

Need help crafting your next escape? I’d love to help you make it happen—complete with perks and experiences you won’t find online.

Click HERE and let’s chat!

And if you liked this list, share it with a friend who’s overdue for a vacation. You know the one. 😉