In My Travel Era

We’re in the era of eras. Anything can be an era. If you’re into it, obsessed with it, that’s your era, as TikTok will attest to. Whatever your era, you’ll need to romanticize everything you do, everywhere you go. Keep reading to discover the travel era you’re in—it’s your vacation and you’re the protagonist.

In my “Paris je t’aime” era

Mandarin Oriental, Paris

Move over, Emily, we’re in Paris now and taking a page out of your playbook. That being, falling in love with everyone and everything—from the fashion to the art to the hotel stays. Taking our breath away? Mandarin Oriental, Paris. Immersed within the heart of the city’s haute couture neighborhood on famed Rue Saint-Honoré, this urban sanctuary charms both fashionistas and culture connoisseurs. Here, checking in means waving bonjour to the Eiffel Tower sparkling beyond the spacious suites. And because this is a vacation, little treats are well deserved. Feast the eyes and delight the senses on property at the Michelin-starred Sur Mesure par Thierry Marx. Cap off the evening with a stroll to the Tuileries Gardens, Louvre and Musée d’Orsay all nearby. Who knows? Maybe we’ll find our very own Gabriel along the way.

In my “beach, please” era

Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya

Today’s forecast at Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya: beach vibes only. If endless views of the sparkling Caribbean Sea or lush mangroves aren’t enough to inspire you to slide into Do Not Disturb mode, then perhaps five swimming pools will do the job. Here, you’ve got one task on your to-do list and that’s to relax in the shade of a poolside cabana, grab a cocktail and unwind. If that sounds a little too laid back, indulge in some kayaking, snorkeling or paddle boarding in the calm waters surrounding the property. Beyond working on your tan, there’s a wealth of Mayan ruins, lush jungle and caves to explore. Repeat your mantra for the trip after us, beach now, reality later.

In my “born to be wild” era

The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara

Get your motor runnin’ and head out on a safari (don’t forget your binoculars). Unleash your inner wild child at Anantara’s Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel steps from Victoria Falls—one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. As wildlife roam around this safari lodge, get your adrenaline pumping to take on the many adventures this area has to offer. Sail along the river of Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park for some hippo spotting or take a leap of faith and bungee off one of the highest jumps in the world. If looking to just keep your feet on the hotel grounds, free unlimited access to the world’s largest waterfall is just as thrilling. They don’t call Zambezi National Park Africa’s playground for nothing.

In my “time traveler” era

The Willard InterContinental Washington D.C.

POV: you just walked into The Willard InterContinental Washington D.C. and it feels like you’ve been transported back to 1818. That is, of course, the year this opulent landmark solidified its rightful place in the history books. One stroll down these prestigious halls and you’ve placed yourself amongst the likes of Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr. and Steven Spielberg. Although over 200 years old, the legendary property is looking as good as ever. For its big birthday, all rooms, suites and specialty suites were given a contemporary makeover. But the history, charm and memory of a time that once was lives on.

In my “Gilded Age” era

Lotte New York Palace

So you’re thinking you need to add a corset, long-lined bodices and gloves to your daily wardrobe. If that’s the case, it’s giving Gilded Age. You’ve watched the HBO series of the same name and now you’re ready to take on high-society New Yorkers. There’s no better place to relish in the splendor of the era than at Lotte New York Palace. Sparkling crystal chandeliers, embellished ceilings and gold accents radiate the elegance and romance of the time. This Manhattan landmark is home to one of New York City’s few surviving Gilded Age mansions—Villard Mansion. Join a Palace Historian for a tour or simply wander the halls to get a feel of the city’s treasured past.

In my “Barefoot Contessa” era

Heckfield Place

To be a Barefoot Contessa is to embrace comfort and elegance, amongst nature. Just like Ina Garten, Heckfield Place is both tamed and gently wild. If you’re going to channel the legend herself across the pond, this must be the place. A country haven sculpted over centuries by ancient woodlands and meadows, this dreamscape worships kitchen gardens and orchards. The culinary imagination of chef Skye Gyngell shines bright, with ingredients from the on-site farm to be enjoyed at every meal. Set a white tablecloth among the seasonal flowers, fruits and vegetables, and embrace nature’s pace. The property likes to say, “Here it begins with the soil,” and we’d like to think that’s something Garten would agree with, too.

In my “Eras” era

The Savoy

Taylor Swift knows a thing or two about eras. She’s got about 10 of them. During those eras, she traveled the world and back again. But one place she always returned to? London. While we know she loved a London Boy, she loved one particular hotel too—The Savoy. Her Reputation era (iconic, as the Swifties would say) took her to the prominent Art Deco-inspired retreat’s Royal Suite for her End Game music video which features an array of London’s most celebrated sights. Plus, the property’s famed Beaufort Bar—the perfect spot for toasting to your Champagne Problems—was the setting for her beloved Vanity Fair photoshoot with photographer Mario Testino back in 2015. Swift’s Eras Tour is set to hit London in the Summer of 2024, and we’ll be keeping a close eye on whether she checks back into this old faithful.