Category: Behind the Scenes

Luxury India Travel Guide: The Taj Mahal at Sunrise, Tiger Safaris & How to Plan the Perfect India Itinerary

India is one of the world’s most rewarding destinations—but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. For many travelers, the idea of visiting India can feel overwhelming. The reality? With the right itinerary, trusted guides, and exceptional hotels, India becomes an unforgettable journey filled with culture, history, wildlife, luxury, and moments that stay with you forever. In Part 1 of

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Why India Stole My Heart: Luxury Safaris, Culture & Travel Experiences

From luxury tiger safaris and colorful markets to unforgettable cultural encounters and the Taj Mahal at sunrise, discover why India became one of my favorite destinations—and why it belongs on your travel bucket list. Welcome to June, Hidden Gem Travel community! As summer travel season kicks into high gear, many of my clients are embarking on incredible journeys across Europe,

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Luxury Cabo Vacation Guide: Where to Stay in Los Cabos for Couples & Families

Planning a luxury vacation to Los Cabos? From swimmable turquoise coves and dramatic desert landscapes to world-class dining and Forbes Five-Star resorts, Los Cabos has become one of the top luxury beach destinations in Mexico for couples, families, and multigenerational travelers alike. After recently staying at Chileno Bay Resort & Residences and touring Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection following a family

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Should you visit Greece in 2026? Answer these 5 questions to find out!  

If you’re dreaming about sun-drenched coastlines, crystal-clear waters, incredible cuisine, and centuries of history, a trip to Greece and the Greek Islands may be exactly what you’re looking for. Greece remains one of the most popular luxury travel destinations in Europe, and for good reason. From the iconic white-and-blue architecture of the Cyclades to vibrant coastal towns and ancient ruins,

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Trip Report: Incredible Japan!

Have you been watching the Winter Olympics in northern Italy? If Italy is on your 2026 travel list, now is the time to start planning — the best luxury hotels, private guides, and unique experiences book well in advance. But today, I’m taking you to Japan — where I spent an unforgettable Thanksgiving trading turkey for sushi. This past fall,

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New Zealand – Experience Review!

Happy Thursday Hidden Gem Travel community! This newsletter is the last in a series of four covering my epic trip to New Zealand last month. Please forward this newsletter to anyone you know who would love to take a trip to this magical country. There are so many decision points that the support of a professional travel advisor is key to a well-planned

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Sleeping in Style in New Zealand!

Happy Thursday Hidden Gem Travel community! As I look at the beautiful fall leaves outside of my office window, I can’t believe that I was in New Zealand peering at spring flowers and Cherry Blossom trees just last month. While owning and operating a small business isn’t easy, the travel perks are incredible even if most trips are business trip,

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I’m here! Follow up to “Guess where I’m headed next”

Happy Thursday Hidden Gem Travel community! If you read my last newsletter, you were teased to guess where my next big, ‘bleisure’ trip was. The choices were Japan, Argentina, or New Zealand. If you guessed New Zealand, you were right! Having been to Australia twice (and I LOVED it each time), I’m excited to explore this beautiful Kiwi country and

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Is there a surprise in your mailbox?

Happy Thursday Hidden Gem Travel community! I was excited to receive the latest Virtuoso Magazine in my mailbox recently – the cover pops in shades of green and is very cleverly designed (scroll down to see)!  If you’re a client (or soon to be) and would like a copy of this award-winning travel magazine, send me an email so I can put

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Where to take a ‘learncation’ at any age

Happy Thursday Hidden Gem Travel community! When driving around town, I can’t help but be astounded by the beauty of the spring flowering trees and plants. I must be more aware this year after my recent month in the land of tulips, Holland. So when I went to New York City last week as a guest of the Korean Tourism

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Hi, I'm Susan Wilson

I’m the founder of Hidden Gem Travel Consulting. As your personal travel advisor, I craft custom worldwide itineraries that astound and inspire you.

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