All of the countries in Southern Africa have their special sauce. In Botswana, it is game viewing made possible by the Okavango Delta. The world's largest inland delta floods perennially (the current meteorological cycle is generating epic floods) and transforms the bushveld through ravine waterways, lagoons and palm trees! Even within the country, each camp had its distinct vibe - not one game drive over the course of weeks felt in any way duplicative. For those who covet wildlife in a pristine environment, with remarkably low visitor numbers, Botswana is the platinum standard.
Charlie and Soren were chuffed to spot the Big 5 all in ONE day and in breaking news, I spotted BOTH of the animals that alluded my 45 years of safaris - the pangolin and honey badger. Pangolin are soft and quirky despite their armored outer shell, while honey badgers are fierce and fearless.
MOZAMBIQUE
Caitlin and I spent part of our honeymoon in Mozambique ten years ago - it was surreal to return with our boys. Regardless of the sentimental connection, we have been to beaches across the globe and this is hands-down our favorite. Envision expanses of coast and islands that are empty and untouched except for the local fisher people and their colorful dhow boats. Charlie ran up and down Star Wars-like sand dunes for hours while Caitlin collected sand dollars. Soren took a shine to snorkeling, my Mom prevailed upon our guide to kayak her around the bay and I, of course, scoped out the garden and local food situation! We got used to having three fresh meals served in our local villa, with favorites being cinnamon flapjacks, ginger shots, spinach leaf tacos, peri peri beef and massive seafood platters.
italy: New Ways of looking at old things.
Italy continues to enchant—but savvy travelers and tastemakers are now shifting their gaze beyond the over-trodden classics. The country is responding to overtourism with actual policy changes: Venice has banned large cruise ships and restricted day-trippers, while Sardinia is capping the number of visitors to protect its pristine shores. The result? A demand for deeper, more meaningful experiences—and a higher barrier to entry.
Sicily, made famous again by the series ‘White Lotus’, remains a soulful standout. It’s home to Greco-Roman ruins, sacrosanct olive groves, and boutique hotels carved into ancient stone facades. Meanwhile, Genoa, once the banking capital of the world, is defiantly under the radar—its gritty elegance, cultural pride, and strategic position make it a brilliant base for exploring the Italian Riviera and beyond.
Up north, the Dolomites are redefining luxury wellness with ultra-luxe spa retreats that combine stunning natural backdrops with transformative treatment programs and bespoke pre-arrival consultancies. Along the Tuscan coast, destinations like Forte dei Marmi offer kid-friendly beach clubs, while Ischia—accessible by private boat from Naples—boasts thermal baths, secluded beach experiences, and a quiet sophistication.
Even Rome is seeing a renaissance in experiential travel, with properties like The Singer Family's new hotel (best known for their iconic sewing machine legacy) which brings rooftop dining and on-location entertainment to the heart of the city. And for those who crave adrenaline with their Aperol, Italy’s supercar experiences now include private circuits with Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and hypercars, complete with lead cars and curated driving itineraries.
Italy may be old, but she’s never looked so new.
A DOOR FEW EVER OPEN. Just days before the Conclave, Tom and Linda unlocked a once-in-a-lifetime moment—literally. With keys procured by Travel Sommelier from the Clavigero - the Vatican official entrusted with opening its most sacred doors - they stepped inside the Sistine Chapel for a private visit. No crowds. No sound. Just them and the ceiling that changed art forever.
