No Passport, No Problem: Sandestin, Florida Delivers Coastal Family Fun

There might be a reason the word ‘sand’ is in Sandestin, Florida – as the area’s miles of silky white sands, with crystal clear waters of the Emerald Coast, remind me of beaches in the Mayan Riviera, Fiji, or the Caribbean islands. But this stretch of the Gulf coast is even more remarkable – with pristine powdery sugar beaches, unpolluted waters, and seas without sargassum.  … Continue reading No Passport, No Problem: Sandestin, Florida Delivers Coastal Family Fun

The Best of Both Worlds: Thompson Palm Springs Blends Buzz and Bliss

Spanning two and a half city blocks on iconic Palm Canyon Drive, the Thompson Palm Springs is a big new draw for the downtown social scene – with creative inspiration, relaxing vibes, and culinary excellence of Hyatt’s newest hotel. For couples seeking a desert escape that feels equal parts stylish, intimate, and effortlessly indulgent, the Thompson Hotel Palm Springs delivers on every front. Set just … Continue reading The Best of Both Worlds: Thompson Palm Springs Blends Buzz and Bliss

Find a peaceful reset in Desert Hot Springs, California’s mecca of boutique mineral springs resorts 

Spending time in the desert vortex of Greater Palm Springs is especially healing, due to the area’s ancient, mineral-rich hot springs – packed with silica, magnesium, and calcium – that promote relaxation and skin health. The region’s wellness mecca inspires, with year-round 70+ sunny days, geothermal natural hot mineral waters, world class indigenous-inspired spas, and serene desert landscapes (with hundreds of hiking trails). The peaceful … Continue reading Find a peaceful reset in Desert Hot Springs, California’s mecca of boutique mineral springs resorts 

LA’s Shopping Scene: More Than Just Rodeo Drive

When you think of shopping in Los Angeles, Rodeo Drive might be the first place that pops into your head. The star-studded, palm tree-dotted street is teeming with luxury brands and fancy restaurants. However, LA’s shopping culture goes far beyond this iconic hub. Across the city, you’ll find a mix of vibrant destinations, each with its own style and surprises. Melrose Avenue  Nestled in the … Continue reading LA’s Shopping Scene: More Than Just Rodeo Drive

Barbados Is Closer than You Think, and Even More than You Imagine

It’s the birthplace of rum. It’s also where the grapefruit was invented. I’s believed to be a hybrid of Jamaican ugli fruit and Indonesian pomelo. And another bit of trivia, it’s the only foreign country that George Washington ever set foot on. That country is the island nation of Barbados. I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with its ambassador to the U.S., Victor … Continue reading Barbados Is Closer than You Think, and Even More than You Imagine

Explore Montenegro: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Memorable Montenegro: A traveler’s guide to this beautiful Balkan country was first published on JohnnyJet.com and MSN.com – January 2025. Looking to book your next trip? As a travel advisor with FORA, we can help guide your exploration, book your hotels with VIP perks, and offer the best insider knowledge. Last year we visited Montenegro twice. From the mountains to the sea, savor the bounty … Continue reading Explore Montenegro: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

LaLaScoop’s favorite new products that will enhance your life

We’ve come across some products lately that we think you might love too. Check out our favorite new discoveries that may improve your life – to help with a better night’s sleep, to help protect your eyes, and to help enhance your health and skin. Manta Pro Sleep Mask Our favorite new travel product is this comfy soft breathable sleep mask that has adjustable C-shaped … Continue reading LaLaScoop’s favorite new products that will enhance your life

Check out our travel hack to save money when booking flights with price alerts

Who doesn’t like overpaying for flights? This year we ended up paying way too much for a one way flight so we decided to set a price alert on the flight and see if it increased or decreased. Here’s how we had money returned to our bank account. Latest travel hack on JohnnyJet.com and MSN.com Continue reading Check out our travel hack to save money when booking flights with price alerts

Get to know Prague with our favorite discoveries

I first visited Prague in 2004, returned in 2014, and again in 2023 to discover numerous surprising changes since my first visit to the City of a Hundred Spires. In September, there were as many people visiting the City Centre (Old Town) as you would expect in Rome, Paris, or London. Today, the capital of the Czech Republic is very safe (just ask a local) … Continue reading Get to know Prague with our favorite discoveries

16 ways to prepare for a trip to Cuba

This article was first published in print in LA Travel Magazine, Spring 2017. It seems like everyone these days is posting themselves on social media in some fancy colorful dress in Havana, Cuba perfectly sweat-free and even in heels. After spending time in Cuba this seems almost outrageous, and not really a good reason to venture to the “Pearl of the Antilles”. Perhaps people want … Continue reading 16 ways to prepare for a trip to Cuba