Category: Travel Resources

A Medieval Old Town That’s Postcard Perfect: Tallinn, Estonia

I heard something on a podcast this week that is true for me. There’s real joy in simply having a trip on the calendar. The anticipation is half the magic. Having something to look forward to, imagining where I’ll be, counting down to departure. All of it gives everyday life a little more sweetness. Can you relate? Onto this week’s topic, Tallinn

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Riga, Latvia: The Baltic CapitalYou’ll Wish You Had More Time In

Riga has Europe’s largest covered market, 800 Art Nouveau buildings, and prices that will surprise you. Here’s what to see — plus a second Latvian port worth knowing about. Summer is winding down (and school starting for many) but travel is heating up!  If you have fall or festive travel ideas in the back of your mind, respond to this email

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Susan on a cruz with icecap and water behind her

Why I Keep Going Back to Silversea Cruises: My Honest Review of Luxury Cruising

From all-suite accommodations and butler service to destination-inspired dining and expedition-worthy itineraries, here’s why Silversea Cruises continues to set the standard for ultra-luxury travel—and why I keep sailing with them. If you’ve been considering a luxury cruise, chances are you’ve come across Silversea Cruises. As a Virtuoso travel advisor, I’ve recommended Silversea to clients for years, and I’ve also experienced

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The Best Family Beach Resorts for Christmas and New Year’s 2026!

Planning a luxury family vacation for Christmas or New Year’s 2026? The best beach resorts—especially those with spacious suites, kids’ clubs, and festive programming—book up quickly. From the calm, crystal-clear waters of Turks & Caicos to the adventure-filled coast of Costa Rica, these four hand-picked luxury resorts offer the perfect mix of relaxation, family-friendly amenities, and unforgettable holiday experiences. Even

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The Best Cities to Explore in 2026—and Why Now Is the Time to Start Planning

When winter weather settles in across much of the country, it’s easy to dream about your next escape. And honestly? This is the ideal time to start planning your next vacation. Thoughtful planning now means better options, better experiences, and a trip that feels seamless from start to finish. If you love city travel, you’re not alone. Exploring vibrant cities—whether

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Smart flying: timely air travel tips to reduce stress

Happy Thursday Hidden Gem Travel community! The ongoing US government shutdown is affecting flights nationwide. These US government shutdown air travel tips will help you prepare and travel confidently. The timing is particularly challenging with Thanksgiving being only a couple of weeks away when many people take to the skies for the holiday. I share this information as a helpful

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Christmas in July 2025

Happy Thursday Hidden Gem Travel community! You may notice that I’ve given the newsletter a little face-lift. The look may be new but the content is still the same, written by me with the goal of sharing compelling travel ideas that come across my desk as well as my personal and client travel experiences. It’s essentially your peek inside the

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Peru preview – culture, culinary, hidden gems

Happy Thursday Hidden Gem Travel community – so many of you are traveling this summer, especially to European countries, and loving your trips! I relish our post-trip calls and hearing about your insights and experiences. It’s my privilege to help my clients travel well everywhere in the world. I’m very grateful for your reviews too – here is one that

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Your next adventure begins here

Happy Thursday Hidden Gem Travel community!  The office continues to be busy with clients heading off for summer vacations and consultations for upcoming trips later this year and into 2026 – no, it’s not too early to for a call. PSA – Already, this summer has been challenging between the heat in Europe and issues with the airlines.  When you book a

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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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