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  • Writer's pictureLatoya Smith

My Top Picks: The Best Places Where We Love to Stay and Make Memories!

Updated: Jun 1, 2022


If traveling is a love language, then it’s safe to say Allen and I share it. In our marriage, traveling is one of our non-negotiables. No matter how busy we are, finding time for travel and adventures is a priority for us. This love for traveling has brought us to the most gorgeous places where we were able to make such beautiful memories together and now with the kids.


I still dream of visiting our favorite spots again once restrictions ease up and traveling becomes more accessible. If you ask me where we want to travel again, I have seven destinations in mind that beautifully combine scenery and stellar services that simply give you unforgettable memories.


Here are the top locations we’ve personally experienced - and these destinations have never let us down!



Palms swaying, the sound of the beach, Avery’s excited shrieks, and Sheldon’s race with the waves - just a few things that will forever remind me of St. Regis in Mexico. When we were single, Allen and I were very acquainted with luxurious travel experiences. Traveling with kids even reaffirmed to us why going for luxury perks is worth it (and convenient!).


We love taking St. Regis trips every other year during our wedding anniversary. The moment we felt the kids were ready to travel, we booked a trip down to Mexico! From the moment we walked in, to the time we checked out, we were pampered 200%. We had a personal butler, and everything we requested was executed perfectly.


The five-star service of St. Regis made our first family trip less stressful. Even though we have 3 kids now, I don’t mind going back - I’m sure the service will be just as excellent.


St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort, Miami


Options for leisure never run out when you’re in St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort. When we’re craving for a posh retreat, this location sits on top of our list.

The property is beautiful inside and out, and the interiors are just as impressive as the IG-worthy pools and beaches outside. It’s amazing to us how this place offers a serene escape from the pulsating energy of Miami. It’s relaxing everywhere - from the beachside to the tranquility pool.


Every time we go here, we experience the same topnotch guest care that we truly enjoyed back in Mexico. Whether we’re just hanging by the pool or reading on one of the lounge chairs, personal butlers come to us to ensure we have everything we need. If you’re all about “relaxing getaways,” we highly recommend St. Regis.


Four Seasons Sydney, Sydney, Australia


It’s been years, but every time I recall my first trip to Australia, I will always remember the dazzling halls of the Four Seasons Sydney hotel. The elegant interior, and the most stunning view of the Sydney Harbor and the Opera House from the hotel rooms made our stay one for the books. I was also so impressed with the Australian hospitality - a polite bow at the entrance, the most attentive concierge, and a special Aussie sweet treat the moment we entered the room.


I love how Four Seasons just combines exclusivity and accessibility. Located at the heart of Sydney, it’s a perfect place to stay if you want to explore the shops and landmarks of the city.


Westin Ski Resort, Blue Mountain Canada


The place where THE proposal happened. I give all the credit to the husband for picking out such a magical place to pop the question. I can still remember the glistening ski lights, the cackling fire, and the sky slopes that seemed to stand witness to our special moment. Thought I would throw in here too how the sweet crew at Westin helped make the proposal even more perfect!


The entire place was so romantic, it set the tone for events like proposals and anniversaries. Located in the middle of snowy slopes during wintertime, the place can make you feel like you’re worlds away from the hustle and bustle. Can’t wait to bring the kids here and tell them mommy and daddy’s love story this upcoming December!


Mandarin Oriental, Munich, Germany


Ahhhh, Munich - a creative’s haven. I consider Munich one of my favorite cities to get my eclectic decor and style inspiration from. The city exhibits the stunning fusion of classic and modern. This fusion is also present in the Mandarin Oriental hotel’s lavish interiors.


We love how the suites welcome you with elegance, and surprises you with bold colors and patterns - pretty much a representation of the progressive city. The best part of staying in this hotel is relaxing in one of their terraces and taking in the majestic Hofbräuhaus views!


Kameha Grand Zurich, Zurich Switzerland


We were very curious how a Pacific-sounding name has made its way in one of Switzerland’s most posh hotels. We later discovered that “Kameha” was a name of a Hawaiian royalty who was known to “serve as a bridge between opposites.” Definitely a worthy name for a hotel that has both elegance and edge!


The service here at Kameha is very notable - you can have a request for arrival treats and they’re more than willing to offer it to you. We enjoyed the interiors, and the luxe experience you can get from their rooms (think: champagne on arrival; lobster as the main course if you wish.)


W Hotels


You can count on this - when we’re traveling to a location and there’s a W Hotel in there, you’ll likely find us making a reservation there. As an interior decorator, I find a ton of inspiration from the modern, stylistic design ever-present in the W Hotel Chain. Facilities starting all starting with W, futuristic lobbies and flamboyant patterns sets W Hotels apart.


The service here is also phenomenal - attentive staff, Bliss spas in most locations, perks and complementary services that give a bang for your buck. Allen and I also love the chill vibe of this place!


W Hotel is truly the best option when you’re out on a quick, fun trip.

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By now, you can probably tell we gravitate towards luxury hotels with stellar service. Yes, it requires us to take our budget up a notch but we’ve always confirmed that the more you pay paves the way to a more stress-free, enjoyable experience that will linger in your memory bank for years! (Oh, and it comes in handy when you’re travelling with the kids!)



How about you? What’s your favorite place to stay and make new memories?

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