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Sometimes, in Paris, all you want to do is hunker down in a quiet corner of luxury, unpack your bags and relax. There is one place, at 12 Rue Jean-Gujon, where this is possible and it’s at the luxury boutique hotel, Le San Regis. A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Hotel San Regis is is a gem housed in a 19th century townhouse with 32 rooms and 11 suites. Ideally situated in the Golden Triangle, between the Champs Elysées and Avenue Montaigne, visitors revel in the heart of fashion and luxury, just outside the front door. When you walk into the hotel you’re instantly met with a sense of calm. The small lobby and reception area is decorated with classical French furnishings, art and wall coverings. An open hall leads you into the back of the hotel where you’ll find a beautiful sitting area, restaurant and bar area. A solarium filled with green plants brings life to the rooms and breaks-up the patterned carpeting. It feels as if you have entered an established French salon that neighborhood patrons frequent often. Up an elevator or grand staircase guests find a few floors with wooden doors that open into uniquely furnished rooms, large for Paris standards. Many of the rooms have just been renovated and feature beautiful beds, with heavy, cozy linens, ample closet space for hanging clothing and marble bathrooms. Flat screen televisions provide entertainment, or you can peek outside your window to get a view of the Eiffel Tower. Rooms and suites at the San Regis are the perfect home away from home. Room service is available 24-hours a day and breakfast is served in a traditional French style, in-room or in the restaurant. The staff at the hotel isn’t afraid to meet your needs. Service is attentive – which is what I expected. This isn’t the place to be pampered, but, instead, to find autonomy and blend-in as a local Parisian. The San Regis offers this opportunity better than any other hotel in the area.

The Willamette Valley, outside of Portland, Oregon, offers many options when it comes to visiting vineyards. But, the very best in this beautiful valley, 30 minutes from downtown, is the incomparable Domaine Drouhin . This vineyard is the outpost of a family legacy started in Burgundy, France more than 100 years ago and is headed, currently, by fourth-generation winemaker, Véronique Drouhin-Boss. Having learned and inherited the meticulous process from those in the family before her, Véronique shuttles between France and Oregon to ensure that only the best comes from her vineyards. In Oregon, the estate is said to have “French soul with Oregon soil” – this couldn’t be more true. Their incredible pinot noirs and chardonnays are considered some of the best in the state and, for some, the country, due to Véronique’s varied processes implemented and executed by herself and her staff. The Willamette Valley in Oregon is known for excellent pinot noirs as the area’s line of longitude also runs through Burgundy, France, another well-known area for the wine variety. From the most recent vintages to those that have come years before, every glass tasted in the beautiful tasting room of Domaine Drouhin exceeds expectation. Véronique came to Oregon in the late 1980’s with her family to help establish the vineyard and they produced their first vintage in 1988. Since then, the family has been credited for aiding in putting Oregon wines on the international wine map. And, visiting the vineyard is an incredible experience as you can witness the beautiful vines, firsthand, as well as tour the facilities. You’ll see the innovative four-story gravity flow winery, taste a few varieties and, if you’re lucky, get invited down into the depths of the establishment to see the pinot noirs aging in beautiful wooden barrels imported from France. The property itself is stunning and guests are encouraged to relax and truly enjoy the experience. Out on the deck you can sip a nice chardonnay while looking-out over the valley towards the sea. It’s a little piece of heaven on Earth. If you’re looking for a special experience near Portland and care about the history and legacy associated with wine-making, Domaine Drouhin is the best. But, a word of warning, step one foot on their property and you won’t want to leave.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus, also known as the Olympieion or Columns of the Olympian Zeus, is a colossal ruined temple in the center of the Greek capital Athens that was dedicated to Zeus, king of the Olympian gods. Construction began in the 6th century BC during the rule of the Athenian tyrants, who envisaged building the greatest temple in the ancient world, but it was not completed until the reign of the Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD some 638 years after the project had begun. During the Roman periods it was renowned as the largest temple in Greece and housed one of the largest cult statues in the ancient world. The temple’s glory was short-lived, as it fell into disuse after being pillaged in a barbarian invasion in the 3rd century AD. It was probably never repaired and was reduced to ruins thereafter. In the centuries after the fall of the Roman Empire. Despite this, a substantial part of the temple remains today, and it continues to be a major tourist attraction. It definitely deserves a visit if you’re in Athens.

One of Rio de Janeiro’s most well-known sites is the beautiful Corcovado National Park. Corcovado, meaning “hunchback” in Portuguese, is a mountain in the center of town. The 2,329-foot granite peak is located in the beautiful Tijuca Forest. Corcovado hill lies just west of the city center but is wholly within the city limits and visible from great distances. It is known worldwide for the statue of Jesus atop its peak, entitled “Cristo Redentor” or, “Christ the Redeemer”. Visitors to Rio can take a private car, bus or tram to the top of Corcovado, scale the mountain and arrive at the base of Christ the Redeemer. From here, you will see a view of one of the world’s most stunning cities, from end to end.

There’s no doubt that Florence is known for its tie to art. The city itself is the perfect representation of a classical painting. Art is very important here and you will find that everyone, from locals to visitors have art on the agenda. One of my favorite places to see traveling exhibitions is the beautiful Palazzo Strozzi. The ancient building, which was once a private home, is now a forum for exhibitions featuring artists from around the world. My recent trip overlapped with a showing of Picasso’s best including works from other masters like Dali and Miro. You never know what the space might have to offer. Not only should you visit to see the structure itself, but you never know what you’ll find within its ancient walls.

Fiesole, the picturesque hilly community which juts-up against Florence, is a postcard waiting to be discovered. Olive, fig and lemon trees dot the countryside as private homes and villas built hundred of years ago cascade down the slopes of the steep hills. One such villa, dating from the 15th century, has been transformed into one the best hotels in Florence – Il Salviatino . As you leave central Florence you drive up a hill and turn into an unassuming driveway which gives way to a trail leading a half a mile through tall pine trees and manicured gardens. The villa sits proudly on top of the mountain and calls you-in to discover its splendors. I arrived at 4:00 pm on a sunny winter afternoon. I pulled-up in my car from the Santa Maria Novella train station and instantly felt at ease. The birds were chirping and church bells were ringing faintly in the distance. One of the hotel’s staff members came out to the car to welcome me and take my bags. I was served cookies and espresso and led right to my room. Through the wide, art-filled halls, I slowly gained a sense of peace. The villa is steeped in history and you can feel that in every corner. From the small sitting rooms, the bar, the terrace and the library – you are instantly overcome with the desire to unpack, unwind and stay a while. I did just that. I explored my large room, which faced Florence below and found white candles lit in preparation of my arrival. It was romantic and, although I was traveling alone, I was okay with that. I headed down to the library and looked through old books on Da Vinci, and Michelangelo, while admiring the art that seemed to fill every corner. It was as if I had stumbled into a museum and been invited to stay the night. As the sun began to set over the city, I retreated to my room. Its spaciousness was appreciated as I sprawled out and settled-in. Each morning of my stay at Il Salviatino I ate breakfast in the library. A silver platter was delivered to my table filled with yogurt, fresh eggs, pastries and coffee. It was delicious. The staff at breakfast and beyond seemed to operate like a well-oiled machine. They knew how to make themselves accessible to guests but were never intrusive. I appreciated that. Throughout my entire stay at the villa, I couldn’t help but feel at home. The comfortable luxury was exactly what I needed in that moment. Il Salviatino is the ideal setting for a quiet, luxurious and truly memorable stay in Florence – one that is hard to duplicate elsewhere.

Mykonos is an island with many hotel options in the luxury category, but one hotel, the Belvedere Hotel , holds the top spot for an ultimate experience in luxury and comfort. Located on the slopes of a hill overlooking the beautiful town of Chora and out to the turquoise Aegean Sea, the Belvedere Hotel is in a prime location for any guest seeking luxury and convenience. It’s whitewashed buildings collide to make a cluster of elegant and private rooms for guests to unwind, relax and spend a few days in the sun. Just a ten-minute walk from the old port, getting to the hotel by car or by foot is easy. Arriving at the Belvedere, you’re instantly struck by just how intimate it is. A boutique property with a mere 43 rooms, you feel as if you’ve stumbled into a large estate where the owner has invited you to spend your holiday in peace – being looked after by his army of friendly staff members. I was given a suite with a large terrace overlooking Chora and the sea. Inside the room you are immediately at-ease with the all-white interiors giving way to a sense of calm and zen. Inside the cave-like rooms, guests can peer-out of large windows, relax in their plush white beds, rest in front of one of their large flat screen televisions or have a Greek coffee outside with majestic views. The details won me over. Rooms are mostly marble with intricately carved stone embedded into walls, ceilings and floors. The marble floors are punctuated with silver leaf detail, a beautiful touch to break-up the white. Marble is softened by layers of fabric and there isn’t a moment here where you don’t feel a halo of serenity due to the materials and colors chosen for each dwelling. Just down from my room was the cozy lobby where the hotel’s operations are based. Breakfast is served nearby, inside or out – even by the beautiful swimming pool during the height of the summer. The Belvedere is not just a beautiful place to hang your hat while in Mykonos, it’s the “it” spot for those looking to mingle amongst the international jet-set. During the summer, Nobu Matsuhisa maintains an outpost here where regulars include European and American celebrities. There are also three bars where you can enjoy ouzo on the rocks while reflecting on the fun you’ve had that day. I am in-love with the sexy martini bar. The staff at the Belvedere are there to help make their guests’ experience unforgettable. They are all kind, attentive and willing to do what they can to help. Rooms are cleaned promptly and organized by the housekeeping staff – which is a wonderful touch. For those looking to be based in even more private accommodations, the Belvedere also offers private villas which are tended-to by personal butlers. They are, simply put, over-the-top in the best of ways. A stay at the Belvedere is unforgettable. It’s not uncommon for people to extend their reservation here once checked-in – as they just can’t get enough. But, a word of warning, summer months book-up well in advance so make your reservation now – or forever hold you peace.

Just past the lagoon in Rio, on the opposite side of Ipanema beach, lies the historic Botanical Gardens, One of the most well-preserved spots in the city, these gardens are a testament to Brazil’s fabulous flora and fauna, offering visitors a view into the area’s exotic plants, flowers and animals. Monkeys dart from tree to tree and huge palms sway over gravel paths that wind around lily pad covered lakes and pools. Fountains spurt and orchids bloom, all in the magical sunlight. You can’t miss an afternoon here – the sheer beauty of nature with captivate you.

Mykonos is a small island and there isn’t too many museums here for a typical “museum buff”. But, one of my very favorites and a “must see” for anyone visiting the island is the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos. On the outskirts of the village of Chora, within easy walking distance from the old port, the small museum houses exhibits dating from the Prehistoric to the Hellenistic periods. At this museum you will see treasures all found on the island – everything from vases, statues, gravestones, busts, tools, jewelry and more. You will get a look at the daily lives, adornments and environments tied to the ancient Greeks who inhabited this island year ago. For a nominal fee, you can spend an hour or more soaking-in the history and beauty that has been preserved by the supporters of the museum and the Greek government. Don’t miss it.

Tel Aviv’s Bauhaus architecture may be famous, but the city was noticeably short on contemporary architectural flair until the arrival in 2010 of Ron Arad’s ruby-red Design Museum . The $18 million venue is the first major public work by the Anglo-Israeli Arad — a swirling, swooshing piece of metal displaying a rotating roster of international design exhibitions. Here, you can stroll through important galleries displaying everything from paintings to sculpture. It’s definitely worth an afternoon.

Florence, Italy has an incredible amount of hotel options. From ancient palaces to newly built structures – there’s something to suit every taste. For me, being that Florence is a city of history, art and beauty – I like hotels that reflect their environment. Perched on a hill in one of the city’s most exclusive neighborhoods, within walking distance to the center of town, the Villa Cora meets all of your needs and exceeds expectations. The hotel is a testament to art, history and beauty that is truly indescribable unless experienced in person. Villa Cora is well known. A Florentine palace and boutique hotel made-up of ornate, gilded ballrooms, public spaces and 46 sleeping chambers – it’s hard not to notice or appreciate. The villa was built as a private home by a man for his wife, the gardens planted with hundreds of pink and white rose bushes in celebration of his love for her. Each room was painstakingly frescoed and decorated in true Florentine style. After a time of neglect, the villa was restored and brought back to its original glory. Today, the villa is owned by the Fratini family and is proudly a part of the Relais & Chateaux collection. From the moment you arrive at Villa Cora, you know you’re somewhere special. The imposing gates open to the beautiful property with stunning views of Florence. Welcoming faces and smiles are everywhere, from check-in to breakfast by the pool to the spa and elsewhere – you won’t find anything short of the best service here. My room was a suite with views of the pool and grounds. A living room with fireplace, two marble bathrooms beautiful decorative hardwood floors, ample closet space, a bedroom fit for a king and the most impressive furnishings. Even my room’s twenty-foot ceilings were hand frescoed and antique artwork, collected by the hotel owners, hung on the walls. I was impressed. What I loved most were the bathroom amenities, which were designed for the hotel with a one-of-a-kind scent created by Santa Maria Novella. Throughout my stay at Villa Cora, I got to know the staff well. They knew me by name and always made an effort to fulfill any request, going above and beyond to accommodate me. I spent my mornings in the glass solarium by the pool indulging in scrumptious breakfasts and my afternoons either in town or at the hotel’s impressive spa. Villa Cora was the perfect base for me in Florence. It was truly a home away from home – albeit an incredibly luxurious one. For any visitor who truly knows luxury and appreciates the details that separate an average hotel from an exceptional hotel, make Villa Cora your choice. But I warn you, you may never want to check-out.

Brussels Airlines is special. A small European carrier that focuses on specific routes, with an affinity for Africa, the airline is our choice for the number one in luxury and comfort in the region. As a traveler throughout Europe and Africa, there are many options to choose from if you plan to visit the continents. But, none can hold a candle to Brussels Airlines. Their dedication to service and comfort, as well as their knowledge of the region, puts them in a position to serve you fully throughout your journey. I flew Brussels recently between New York and Rwanda. Having never flown them before, I was intrigued as to what I might find. With flights out of North America operating from JFK airport in New York, Washington D.C. and soon Toronto – and direct connections to Kigali from their Brussels hub, I felt they would be the best option. From the moment I stepped aboard their Airbus A330 aircraft, with a newly reimagined business class cabin, I was in utter heaven. A unique Belgian experience, Brussels offers flavors of the country throughout the flight. The new business class cabin is outfitted with state-of-the-art seats that lie flat 180 degrees (at nearly six-and-a-half feet long), large 15-inch touch screen LCD televisions with a plethora of entertainment options and menus designed by revolving Belgian chefs like Peter Goossens. The flight attendants are courteous and helpful, willing to do most anything to make your flight memorable. My experience on both the JFK to Brussels and Brussels to Kigali legs provided all I needed to help the time go by. The a la carte menu offered items like: muscles, roasted Sole, Belgian cheeses and a smattering of fantastic desserts. The airline serves all its meals accompanied by a well-curated wine menu, Laurent Perrier champagne and the country’s finest Neuhaus chocolates. For most of my 16 hours in the air, I watched new releases and slept – all in an effort to relax and prepare myself for 10 days of trekking throughout beautiful Rwanda. My journey to Rwanda was smooth, easy and made me not want to leave the aircraft. I was genuinely disappointed that the flight was coming to an end when the captain announced our descent into Kigali. As the flight attendants came through the cabin and handed-out full-sized boxes of Neuhaus chocolate as a gift to take, I couldn’t help but notice the attention to detail Brussels Airlines puts into their service. With direct routes to 19 destinations in Africa, including Kigali, Entebbe, Douala, Conakry and more – no one can provide better options when traveling to the magical continent. Brussels Airlines has emerged from its past and created a future that is, above all else, laden with hospitality, charm and convenience. It is simply the best.