Jeff Auvenshine TRAVEL

03/20/2026

Paris will always be iconic but this summer the crowds will be bigger than ever. If you are dreaming of Europe without the long lines and packed streets there are incredible alternatives worth considering.

In my latest article for Fora Travel I share seven destinations that deliver the same charm, culture, and beauty of a European summer but with fewer crowds from the Adriatic coast of Montenegro to the historic streets of Edinburgh and the alpine beauty of Switzerland.

If you are planning a summer escape and want somewhere just as magical but a little more relaxed take a look at the list and start dreaming.

Which destination would you choose? Let me know in the comments or send me a message and I would be happy to help plan your trip.

The best places for a summer vacation in Europe aren't always obvious. If you've been thinking about visiting Paris but want somewhere with fewer crowds, these alternatives deliver good food, good wine, and vibrant culture with less congestion.

03/19/2026

New Mexico isn’t just a destination… it’s a feeling 🌵✨

From adobe-filled Santa Fe to the landscapes that inspired generations of artists, this guide dives into the stays, experiences, and hidden gems that make it so special.

If you’re ready to experience it the right way—with insider access, exclusive perks, and a perfectly planned itinerary—I’ve got you covered 😉

📩 Reach out and let’s start planning

Plan your New Mexico travel with tips on Santa Fe, Taos, parks, food, and ranch stays so you can explore deserts and culture with confidence in 2026.

03/19/2026

Some of the most memorable hotels in the world are built on vision, creativity, and bold leadership. Many of them were founded by remarkable women who transformed their passion for hospitality into extraordinary destinations.

Here, I highlight a few of my favorite women owned hotels around the world. From Lake Como’s stunning Passalacqua to the elegant Royal Portfolio properties in South Africa and the vibrant jungle escape of Hotel Aguas Claras in Costa Rica, these hotels prove that great hospitality is often driven by inspiring stories and visionary founders.

If you are looking for your next unforgettable stay, this list is a great place to start.

If one of these hotels caught your eye and you would like help planning a stay, send me a message. I would love to help you experience them firsthand.

I like to celebrate women every month, but in honor of Women’s History Month, I'm highlighting some of the female hotelières who are making hotel history.

03/19/2026

✨ Your Guide to New Mexico ✨

From soulful desert landscapes to unforgettable stays and rich cultural experiences… New Mexico is one of those places that feels different the moment you arrive 🌵

Think:
✔️ Luxury casitas with Southwest charm
✔️ Spa resorts along the Rio Grande
✔️ Authentic New Mexican cuisine (yes… green chile EVERYTHING 🌶️)
✔️ Deep-rooted history at places like Taos Pueblo
✔️ Artistic energy inspired by landscapes that don’t look real

This is not a “check-the-box” destination… it’s one you experience.

And here’s the thing 👇

When you book through a travel advisor (hi, it’s me 😉), you’re not just booking a hotel…

You’re getting:
✨ Exclusive perks (upgrades, credits, VIP treatment)
✨ Personalized itineraries tailored to YOU
✨ Insider access to the best stays, dining, and experiences
✨ Time saved (no endless researching)
✨ A real human in your corner if anything goes sideways

New Mexico done right hits differently.

📩 DM me to get my full guide or to start planning your trip

03/18/2026

Some of the most inspiring hotels in the world share something special in common. They were brought to life by visionary women who transformed their passion for hospitality, design, and storytelling into extraordinary places to stay.

From Lake Como’s breathtaking Passalacqua, to the intimate elegance of The Royal Portfolio, the Caribbean charm of Salamander Collection, and the jungle escape of Hotel Aguas Claras, these properties reflect the creativity, perspective, and leadership of remarkable female founders.

Travel becomes even more meaningful when you know the story behind where you stay.

Which one would you add to your travel wish list? DM me today to make your wish come true!

03/17/2026

Hotel Spotlight! 🔦

Tucked away on a quiet residential street in Stockholm, Ett Hem redefines what luxury hospitality can feel like. The name literally translates to “a home,” and that is exactly the experience guests are meant to have.

Originally built as a private residence in 1910, the townhouse was transformed into a boutique hotel that blends historic charm with contemporary Scandinavian design. Today the property combines several early 20th century townhouses and offers an intimate collection of beautifully designed rooms and living spaces.

Instead of a traditional hotel lobby, you will find cozy living rooms, a library, a garden courtyard, and dining spaces that feel like you are visiting a stylish friend’s home. Thoughtful interiors by designer Ilse Crawford emphasize warm textures, natural light, and understated elegance.

It is the kind of place where you can curl up with a book by the fireplace, enjoy a beautifully prepared meal in the kitchen, or explore Stockholm knowing you are returning to one of the most thoughtfully designed boutique hotels in Scandinavia.

Perfect for travelers who value design, intimacy, and that rare “home away from home” feeling.

Plus, book with me and you could receive these perks:

🛏 Room upgrade, subject to availability
🧇 Daily complimentary full breakfast for 2
💰$100 USD food and beverage credit
⏰Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability

📩 Ready to plan something great? DM me and let’s make it happen.

03/17/2026

Lucky you… you found a travel advisor.☘

Travel planning should feel just as fun as the trip itself. From insider hotel perks and upgrades to seamless itineraries and expert recommendations, working with a travel advisor means your trip is designed around you not the internet’s best guess.

This St. Patrick’s Day, consider it your sign to plan something extraordinary. Whether it is a luxury escape, a bucket list adventure, or that trip you have been putting off, I handle the details so you can focus on the experience.

Send me a DM to get started and let’s plan your next lucky adventure.

03/17/2026

Ready to wander? Let's talk and figure out your worry-free plan.
DM me today!

03/16/2026

Lisbon proves that great luxury does not always require a luxury price tag. From boutique design hotels to stylish stays in historic neighborhoods, there are incredible properties where you can experience the city’s charm, culture, and views without going over $500 a night.

I share a few of my favorite Lisbon hotels that deliver style, location, and value for travelers who want an elevated stay in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities.

Read the full article and DM me to start planning your Lisbon escape.

Here are my top Lisbon hotels under $500 a night (though rates may climb during peak weeks).

03/16/2026

Hotel Spotlight! 🔦: Sparrows Lodge, Palm Springs

Desert minimalism meets rustic charm at Sparrows Lodge, one of Palm Springs’ most distinctive boutique stays. Originally built in 1952 as “Castle’s Red Barn” by MGM actor Don Castle, the property once hosted Hollywood insiders before being thoughtfully restored into the stylish retreat it is today.

Set among palm trees in the Deepwell neighborhood, the lodge trades traditional luxury for something more relaxed and authentic. Think exposed wood beams, handcrafted furniture, art filled communal spaces, and cozy rooms designed with natural textures and desert inspired simplicity.

What makes Sparrows Lodge special:
• A restored barn that serves as the social hub, restaurant, and lounge
• TV free rooms designed for true unplugged relaxation
• Private patios, rain showers, and even horse trough soaking tubs in some rooms
• Garden dinners, fire pits, and a laid back adults only atmosphere perfect for desert escapes

It feels less like a hotel and more like a beautifully designed desert ranch where the pace slows down and the focus is simply enjoying Palm Springs.

A perfect stay for couples, design lovers, and anyone looking for a stylish weekend in the desert.

DM me today to plan your Palm Springs escape!

03/15/2026

Just Booked ✨

From the sun soaked beaches of Hawaii to elegant historic hotels in France and a city escape in Texas, these recent bookings prove one thing: every trip can be completely different, but the right hotel makes all the difference.

📍 The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kaanapali
Ocean views, palm trees, and front row seats to Maui sunsets.

📍 La Mirande
An intimate 18th century palace steps from the Papal Palace in the heart of Provence.

📍 InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu
A stunning historic hospital turned luxury hotel beneath one of Europe’s largest domes.

📍 La Cour des Consuls Hotel & Spa
A refined boutique hotel blending Toulouse history with contemporary luxury.

📍 Hyatt Regency Austin
Perfectly located on Lady Bird Lake with skyline views and easy access to Austin’s best dining and music.

Planning a beach escape, a European adventure, or a quick city getaway? I would love to help design the right trip for you.

Send me a DM and let’s start planning.

03/15/2026

The best summer trips are already being planned, and the smartest travelers (the ones who use travel advisors) are skipping the crowds. Same magic, half the chaos. Swipe for some destinations worth booking now.

Which destination is on your summer list?

Send me a message and let’s start planning.