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My last day in St. Barths was simply perfect. The sun was high and bright, the sand was warm and the waters of the Caribbean were saturated with a color blue that can only be found there. I spent the day relaxing. What better to do than to float out into the tiny bay on a paddle board. I kicked-off from the sand and drifted out – using my hands to paddle further and further. That moment was pure bliss, one to soak-up only what St. Barths has to offer. I wore a pair of Grecian swimming briefs decorated in gold foil. The briefs are my one of my favorite menswear swim and undergarment brands, Charlie by Matthew Zink.

The Rosario islands are a group of islands in the Caribbean sea, about an hour via boat from Cartagena’s harbor. They are known for their shallow, azure waters, white sand beaches and scuba diving. Visitors can choose one of the many islands to visit. Often, crowds of people descend on them, sucking the fun and fabulousness right out of the experience. So, I recommend heading to Isla Majagua. Majagua is a private island and the Sofitel Santa Clara organizes boats that head directly there. Once on the island, you can park yourself right on the beach and utilize the local hotel to deliver cocktails and food right to you. It’s pure bliss.

Hotel Teatro, in the beautiful and historic city of Porto, is a boutique property. With an ideal location in the middle of town, you’re easily within a few minutes walk of the river, cathedrals, shopping and the famous Café Majestic. A member of the prestigious Design Hotels, this property has its look, feel and mood down pat. And, for those who truly want something unique in an ideal setting, Hotel Teatro is the best choice. As you enter the hotel through large metal doors covered in Portuguese script, you’re instantly struck by the drama of it all. Theatre lights spot light various areas of the lobby. The reception, restaurant, sitting areas and even vintage costumes protected by glass coverings are all highlighted. Curtains and murals cover the walls and add to the ambiance. Elevators take you up to your room. The small dwellings are not huge, but are enough for comfort and are well laid-out. You’ll find flat screen TVs, comfortable beds, a desk, a safe, a beautiful bathroom with a sexy glass shower and a welcome of Michel Cluizel chocolates by the bed – a nice touch. Many rooms have views of the river and the crumbling buildings, which Porto is known for. Overall, an experience at Hotel Teatro is good. It’s unique. It’s quaint. And, you find better is historic Porto.

In the quaint area of Barranco, an oceanside neighborhood in Lima, you’l find many museums filled with interesting art and artifacts to explore. But, one stands out as the best in the area – the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo. The museum is spread over a grassy area landscaped with beautiful flowers, ponds and mature trees. The indoor/outdoor rooms are lined with glass which makes the space feel open and easily traversed. Sculpture, paintings, installations and more hold their mark as visitors are led through each space. Peruvian artists are the focus and color is prevalent. When you’re through, you can visit the on-site organic cafe serving homemade ice cream, artisan coffee and more. This is a must-visit for any Lima tourist, or local for that matter. It would be dreadful to miss it.

Autumn in South Korea is magical. The trees are ablaze with reds, oranges and yellows. Just outside the capital city of Seoul, mountains sit with looming fog that circles the peaks. I spent a day here, in the peace and quiet of a Buddhist temple, meandering over rivers and down wooden paths. The sheer beauty of this place was so very inspiring.

Landing in Italy’s fashion capital, Milan, it’s no surprise that there is a bevy of hotel rooms at any luxury traveler’s disposal. High-end hotels pepper the city and offer guests uniquely italian and international hospitality. But, there is one hotel that stands out as a star amongst the crowd, The Four Seasons Milan . Now, many would argue that Four Seasons is a recognized chain that has reliable service and noteworthy accommodations no matter where the destination. But, it’s not always the best choice in every city. A truckload of competition is always waiting to stake claim as the “top” hotel in the area. But, in Milan, The Four Seasons “takes the torta” for a plethora of reasons. Upon entering the hotel’s discreet entrance off Via Gesù, I was instantly taken by the seamless merging of a 15th Century convent with the modern amenities and services of a five-star property. Of course, Four Seasons never selects buildings to house hotels that don’t have a story. Milan is no exception. The 118 guest rooms that make up the property are framed by a magical courtyard planted with mature trees and shrubs, and its interiors are dotted with original frescos, murals and art which was acquired as a part of the hotel chain taking over the building at the property’s conception. The staff at The Four Seasons Milan greet you at the door with a hearty, “Benvenuto”, and escort you to reception for a quick check-in. After an efficient five-minute introduction to the property’s amenities, I was led to my room, a junior suite, which was perfectly outfitted with flat-screen televisions, a large, cozy king-sized bed, sitting area, fresh fruit and pastries as well as a marble bathroom that featured a shower large enough to do backflips in. The room was perfect. As I explored the hotel over my stay, I saw why the property has become the “it” home-away-from-home for fashion’s glitterati, celebrities and world leaders. The Four Seasons’ “anything is possible” attitude in service is evident throughout the stay, and the staff is truly happy and willing to do anything for you. I spent an evening in the lounge and bar area which served fantastic cocktails as well as an afternoon in the subterranean spa with a large, catacomb-style swimming pool, hammam and luxurious treatment rooms. This is Milan’s answer to heaven. The Four Seasons Milano exceeds expectations on every level. Even the food, in one of the hotel’s three restaurants, is some of the best in the city. The breakfast buffet is not to be missed if you’re a fan of incredible italian pastries, yogurts, banana pancakes and omelets. I wish I had spent  a week here – in the restaurants alone. For those looking to find a respite in the middle of Milan, within minutes walk from the city’s best shopping and cultural attractions (the famous Duomo di Mialno is five minutes away by foot), look no further. You won’t need to experience another property in this magical city, I promise. In true Italian form, you’l fall in love.

As a luxury traveler, choosing a hotel in a sea of options lining Cancun’s Zona Hotelera can be difficult. With a niche product to entice every type of traveler, Cancun is a mecca for those seeking a little rest and relaxation. But, only a handful of hotels make their presence known through their overall design, food and service. And, among that handful, one stands-out as the shining star. This hotel is Le Blanc Cancun. Rolling-up the long driveway to the whitewashed facade and the bubbling fountains surrounding the marble entryway, you know you’re not in a typical all-inclusive cookie cutter property. Indeed this hotel is all-inclusive, a rarity for us to feature, but this is one to make note of. Le Blanc is a large property, with 260 rooms, but it feels intimate and special. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a signature beverage of coconut milk with tropical flavors. You’re led straight to your room, mine had direct ocean views, and shown the room’s amenities. Every guest has access to in-room flatscreen televisions, a fully stocked bar with premium liquor and mixers as well as a cabinet loaded with snacks. Food at Le Blanc is a primary focus. Firstly, food is available 24 hours a day. At any given time, guests can call the kitchen and order right from a menu filled with continental cuisine. Restaurants are open on-site from 7 am until 12 am – and offer everything from sushi to Italian food. Bars adorn the lobby and sparkling pool area – and it’s all included in your rate. Hunger will never find you at Le Blanc. Service is notable at this beachfront resort. The staff here want to see you enjoy your stay. They’re always willing to go the extra mile to be sure you’re happy. This is echoed in the beautiful spa on the ground level of the hotel. Large stones take you across a reflecting pool to enter separate men’s and women’s lounge areas with hot tubs, wading pools, saunas and steam rooms. Facials, massage, manicures and pedicures are all available. And, of course, what better to sell this property than a stretch of one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean? Le Blanc sits on top of a white sand dune that leads out to azure waters rich in variations of turquoise. Spend your days here, Le Blanc encourages it. Staff will set you up with lounge chairs, umbrellas, towels and cocktails. What more could you ask for in Cancun?

United Airlines is a huge operation. When one of the most famous airlines in the United States swallowed-up Continental Airline’s operations, they began operating Newark Liberty International Airport as one of their main hubs on the east coast. The hub is roughly 20 minutes from Manhattan which makes it a very desirable option for New Yorkers to book flights for trips around the globe. United knew what they were doing. So, when looking for the perfect non-stop 7 hour flight from the New York area to Lima, Peru for the weekend, I was faced with two options. The first option was on the massive South American-based LAN Airlines which flies non-stop from JFK International Airport. Or, United Airlines from Newark. I chose United Airlines. Arriving at Newark Airport on Friday, I was faced with crowds jetting-off to all corners of the planet. Being that I was booked in United’s Business/First class, I didn’t have to deal with the crowds – luckily. I ran to the private counter where the friendly staff greeted me and quickly checked me in for the flight. I was handed my boarding pass where I jumped into a short security line for those flying in United’s premium cabin. Thank Goodness. I boarded to plane first where flight attendants welcomed me on-board with a glass of champagne. United’s Boeing 757 was sizable, but not huge. The Business/First cabin had 16 seats. Each seat was soft, comfortable and spacious – easily reclining and morphing into a lay-flat bed for the long flight. In front of me was an 18-inch flat screen television with a plethora of new releases and a moving map of our flight plan. I was in my element. About 40 minutes into the flight we were served a delectable lunch. I chose a roasted chicken with rice and vegetables. Surprisingly, the food was delicious. The lunch was preluded by an appetizer of salmon and proceeded by a homemade slice of cheesecake. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Shortly after lunch I stretched-out and fell asleep under a thick comforter with my head on a feather pillow. Shortly before landing, I awoke and sipped a cup of green tea while watching a film I had been wanting to see for a few months. As I finished-up, we touched down safely in Peru. I existed the aircraft first and couldn’t have asked for a more enjoyable experience. In the end, I was thoroughly impressed by United’s premium cabin. It was just, simply stated, the best.

Arriving in Lisbon, it’s easy to recognize that you’re in a special place. Early in the morning, the sunlight floods the city with a golden hue, which reflects off the pink, cream and blue-tiled buildings to make one of the most spectacular color shows you’ve ever seen. As day breaks fully, you peer out of your window from your suite on the 6th floor to see the entire city and beyond to the glistening blue Tagus River. This is Lisbon and this is your view at The Four Seasons Hotel Ritz . Lisbon has many hotel options, but for those who are looking for something truly special, The Four Seasons is a must. Residing inside an architectural gem from the 1950s and filled to the brim with one of Portugal’s most vast private art collections, there is nothing like it. In true Four Seasons style, the staff here makes it their business to see to your every need. From tours around the hotel utilizing their custom art app which explains each work of art found on the hotel’s walls and its significance, to dinner reservations at one of the city’s best dining institutions, there is no request too big or too small. When I arrived at the hotel, I was greeted with a complimentary early check-in and upgraded to a deluxe room overlooking the beautiful Eduardo VII Park park. The room was well-appointed, outfitted with ample space, large marble bathrooms and high-end toiletries. It’s easy to feel at home here. My luggage was delivered promptly and I was left to unpack and decide what to do for the remainder of the day. A few floors up from my room, on the highest floor of the hotel, The Four Seasons offers a state-of-the-art spa with exercise facilities, treatment rooms for massage and other delights as well as an outdoor running track which circles the roof. You can literally work-out while enjoying a 360 degree view of Lisbon and the surrounding neighborhoods. The view alone is enough to inspire you to leave the comforts of your room early in the morning for a quick jog. The Four Seasons offers guests everything they need for a perfect stay in Lisbon. They will customize any itinerary, suggest the perfect day of shopping and even send you off on a tour of the city on a specially-made sidecar with your own personal photographer to teach you how to capture the perfect images of the Alfama neighborhood or Lisbon’s botanical gardens. Truly, the hotel can help you create an experience you’ll never forget. Throughout my stay at the hotel, I found every moment to be seamless. It’s not easy to pull this off for every property, although many in the luxury category do try. I was told at check-in that The Four Seasons “is the best”. And, they’re right. There is no better place to be in Lisbon. Period.

On a small, vibrant island in the city center of Stockholm, Hotel Skeppsholmen has its home in two long buildings that were built in 1699 to house Sweden’s Royal Marines. Casually luxurious, ultra-modern, and historically protected, the hotel gives its visitors a taste of the old, a twist of the new, and a whole lot of charm. The historic landmark is paired with the very best of contemporary Swedish cuisine, art, design, fashion, and music, partnering with iconic brands such as Acne and Byredo. Ideal for both the active and the culturally curious guest, the quaint yellow building is next door to the renowned Swedish Museum of Modern Art and the fascinating Swedish Museum of Architecture. The area’s gorgeous antique ships and waterfront restaurants are also within walking distance. Fittingly, the artistic theme chosen by multidisciplinary design and architecture firm Claesson Koivisto Rune for this Stockholm island hotel’s rooms and suites and its facilities is “fog.” The word aptly describes the interior’s soft color scheme, enchanting maritime surroundings, and peaceful atmosphere, which naturally lends itself to contemplation. Since Skeppsholmen is housed in an historic 1700s building, the rooms are an inspirational mix of high ceilings and sumptuous spaces with stylish modern interiors. Some of the suites reference the Swedish hotel’s waterside abode with names such as The Captain’s Suite, The Admiral’s Suite, and The Officer’s Suite. Cozy bathrooms come with singular Boffi basins and showers with integrated lighting. Surrounded by white light and solid colors, many guests report Skeppsholmen’s calming effect upon their senses. Overall a stay at the hotel feels like being a guest at a country house belonging to a wealthy friend, but located in the middle of one of Europe’s most exciting cities. The service here is friendly and attentive, but not overly detailed. That’s okay. You don’t come to Skeppsholmen for access to the best concierge in town. Instead, guests make the hotel their retreat in Stockholm, a place to truly unwind and reconnect with their natural surroundings.

The Nobis Hotel, a sister property to the beautiful Hotel Skeppsholmen, sits at the center of Stockholm – where all the action seems to find itself. A hotel with emphasis on service and design, Nobis appeals to those with an affinity for the beautiful, unique and truly Scandinavian aesthetic. From the moment you walk up the stairs and into the bright lobby outfitted with an incredible cluster of ceiling lanterns, large sofas, ottomans and chairs which invite you to lounge and relax – it’s obvious that comfort is key here. Guests feel at home and that is the mission of this fantastic hotel. Upon check-in, friendly front desk staff welcome you with information about the hotel and the services available to guests: a stunning restaurant, fitness center equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, saunas, a full Scandinavian breakfast enticing you out of bed each morning and large guest rooms with views of the city. My room was spacious with sumptuous beds and a comfortable seating area to rest between engagements. Bathrooms in guest rooms are done with elegant Carrera marble which climbs from floor to ceiling, rain showers, incredible porcelain sinks and soft lighting – a “must” in my book for any hotel worth its salt. Through the stay, The Nobis Hotel did not disappoint. It was an easy place to relax, unpack and use as a home base while exploring the city. With easy access to Stockholm’s Arlanda airport via the Arlanda Express and close to many subway stations, you can easily traverse the city and outlying areas. Future guests should know that The Nobis is often sold-out due to popularity, it’s important to book ahead – especially during busy times in Stockholm. But I promise, after check-in, you’ll enjoy every minute.

The DuPont Circle Hotel, sitting perfectly on a central traffic circle that spins cars and pedestrians out to all corners of our nation’s capital city, is an inviting and warm place to hang your hat while visiting the Washington, D.C. area. I recently stayed at the hotel which is centrally located, within walking distance to all of D.C.’s most visited sights. The White House, Georgetown and the Washington Memorial are all an easy walk from the front door. Upon entering, a beautiful lobby dotted with marble, art and a reception area, provides a grand yet warm welcome. As I visited during the spring season, vases with cherry blossom branches rested on many of the lobby’s surfaces. I was checked-in promptly and shown the way to my room which was large and had a good view of DuPont Circle and the greater D.C. area. The rooms at the hotel are well-equipped, offering guests amenities like large bathrooms, flatscreen televisions, radios, music players, complimentary WiFi, house toiletries and more.  Suites, on the higher floors, have even more options with private terraces, multiple rooms, hardwood floors and access to floor 9, the club level with complimentary beverages and snacks all day long. Just off the lobby of the hotel, are two dining options including Cafe DuPont and Bar DuPont. The bar is very busy and is considered a hot spot, perfect for snacks and cocktails, among locals. Weekends are filled with well-heeled people from the area catching-up after a long week of work. Cafe DuPont offers breakfast, brunch and dinner and caters to both locals and hotel guests. The food is well executed and inventive. You’ll find everything from brioche french toast to hamburgers on the menu. The service at The DuPont Circle Hotel is exceptional. From the moment of check-in until I checked-out, the staff were more than willing to do whatever it took to make my stay enjoyable. They made a point of making sure I was not only comfortable, but provided me with complimentary bottles of Voss water and a fruit basket on arrival. All in all, this hotel, a member of the Ireland based Doyle Collection, is outstanding. For the price and central location to all Washington, D.C. has to offer, you simply cannot beat it.