When it comes to hotels, we love a well-designed interior and a hotel that doesn’t skimp on the fixtures or amenities. The accommodations should make the entire experience nothing short of delightful. I mean, you are on vacation, right? And while many of us aren’t influencers, it doesn’t mean we don’t like to live like one on holiday. Here are a few of our favorite–most instagram-worthy hotels across the world we’re currently obsessed with. They’re bright and airy and situated in some of the most beautiful destinations.

Hotel Habita

Source: Tripadvisor

Mexico City, Mexico

Probably one of the most underrated cities in the world is Mexico City. It’s full of amazing restaurants, nightlife, museums, beautiful architecture–and did we mention the food?? Hotel Habita is located central to everything you’d want to see and features a beautiful simplistic layout that’s clean, minimal and modern. We especially love the pool and dining areas of this place; we could lounge on the tiled pool area all day–as will you.

TUVE

Source: Tripadvisor

Hong Kong, China

Designed with minimalist principles and the masterful element of natural lighting and playing with shadows, TUVE is a minimalist’s dream. The juxtaposition of natural wood grain against concrete oddly makes the rooms feel home-y yet elegant. The entire hotel is an art piece echoing touches of oxidized copper and marble throughout, creating texture and interest in every corner of the hotel. It’s located a short walk away from Causeway Bay (on the quiet and calm side) where you’ll find famed restaurants and tons to do and see.

The Relais La Sommità

Source: The Relais La Sommita

Puglia, Italy

This 5-star boutique hotel in Puglia is actually a historic sixteenth-century residence in the center of Ostuni, also known as the “white city”–famed for its stark white buildings. The light and airy-ness of The Relais La Sommita coupled with the beautifully preserved stone walls make the space so unique, clean, and comforting. The views are unparalleled here, where you can sit on the balcony and really take in the sights of this beautiful city.

Casa Azimute

Source: Casa Azimute

Estremoz, Portugal

This unique house features 4 rooms and 2 suites available for booking. It is located 1 hour and 30 minutes from Lisbon and the western coast of Alentejo, where the house overlooks the vast landscape of rolling hills, fortified cities, and fresh air. Being situated far from major cities, Casa Azimute is the perfect place for stargazing and enjoying the views. The rooms are built with this in mind–featuring panoramic windows and even an enclosed outdoor daybed where you and your loved one can enjoy the stars in the dark sky or bask in the sunlight with a good book (just don’t forget the sunscreen!).

Hotel Joaquin

Source: Hotel Joaquin

Laguna Beach, California

There are hidden gems nestled all over the place but this one takes the cake. This Spanish-influenced boutique hotel combines luxurious living with laidback California vibes to transport you on a relaxing beachside stay. All of their rooms are uniquely decorated and feature vibey things like a record player, gorgeous stone sinks with brass fixtures, and beautiful views of the surrounding gardens and ocean. At Hotel Joaquin, you’re just steps away from the beach town and the beach itself. Win-win.

Public Hotel

Source: Public Hotel

New York, New York

If light and airy by day and sensual by night sound like the ideal spot for your next vacation, you’ll love Public Hotel. The unique design of the rooms prioritizes the views by keeping the bed closest to the window in what feels like a cozy nook. With natural wood touches and custom-designed lighting that emulates candlelight, you’ll never want to leave the room–except for complimentary warm cookies and milk at Louis maybe. Some other complimentary throw-ins include wellness classes, 24-access to the state of the art gym, Shinola bicycle rentals, and in-room coffee. Seriously, what’s not to love?

Casa Cook Rhodes

Source: Casa Cook Rhodes

Kolympia, Greece

Casa Cook identifies itself as a lifestyle boutique hotel–emphasizing a laid-back feel and stylish adults-only resort by Thomas Cook. With multiple locations in sprinkled along the Mediterranean, guests will be close to the ocean wherever they choose to stay, and every location is equally as beautiful as the others. You’ll instantly feel at ease with the earthy tones, natural fixtures, and plants intentionally placed around the property. It’s the type of hotel that will make you want to quit working and just stay there forever.

Turtle Island Fiji

Source: Turtle Island Fiji

Turtle Island, Fiji

If a remote tropical destination is more your speed, Turtle Island Fiji will not disappoint. The island itself is packed with lush greenery and the resort complements its surroundings extremely well with big open entrances and balconies that open up to a panoramic view of the beach and the surrounding foliage. The natural furnishings and crisp white linens make the rooms feel relaxing yet luxurious. Oh–did we mention it’s a private island? This resort is the island, which only accommodates 14 couples at a time–talk about exclusive. Food is always fresh and sourced locally; they serve up fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables and more to truly enhance the experience on the island.

The Calile Hotel

Source: The Calile Hotel

Queensland, Australia

Want to feel like you’re living in an interior design feature of a magazine? The Calile Hotel is just the place. The color palette of sage, blush and a powdery blue with touches of brass and natural oak furnishings will make the right side of your brain so happy. Every inch of this hotel is beautiful from the pool to the gym and spa to the library and business center. It’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy your stay in the city of Brisbane.

Summer is coming and we’re in dire need of some vacation time. In preparation for long haul flights we’re taking this season, we’ve gathered some of our favorite essentials for long haul flights–some non-essential but extremely helpful–to help you along on your travels!

When it comes to long flights, the airplane essentials you need are the things that make you comfortable, makes you feel like you’re at home in your bed, and can help you pass the time on the hours you’re not sleeping. If you’re bracing yourself for a long flight, you’ve come to the right place.

Make sure you’ve got all the essentials for long flights by using this as not only a shopping guide but as a checklist to ensure you’ve remembered everything. There’s nothing worse than forgetting your headphones at home when you have a 10+ hour flight. Been there, done that–not fun (and had to pay $25 for crappy headphones that I’ll never use again).

Let’s get into this.

Personal Item / Carry On Essentials for Long Flights

Make sure that all your in-flight essentials can all fit in your personal item bag, which can vary in size depending on your airline. You’ll want it in a personal item so that it can be stowed seamlessly under your seat, where you can access it quickly without getting in someone’s way or asking your neighbor to move so you can grab it.

If you’re only bringing a carry-on, a cool hack is to pack all your essentials in a pouch in your carry-on. When you pass TSA, take that pouch out so you can have it with you before you board the plane and not have to open your gigantic luggage or backpacking bag in the airplane and hold up the boarding process.

Photo by Patrick Coddou on Unsplash

Sleeping essentials for long flights

Catching a red-eye? Getting some Zzz’s before you set off on your action-packed vacation? Dozing off so you don’t have to make small talk with your neighbor? Don’t get us started on the screaming babies on flights that make it feel like the flight is lasting an eternity. If you’ve been in these situations, here are a few things to remedy your in-flight sleeping woes.

Noise Canceling Headphones

Can you tell why this is #1? If you like sleeping on planes or need to (you know, to prevent jet lag), you should invest in a good set of noise canceling headphones. You’ll be impervious to any screaming, crying, endless chatter, or annoying neighbor. You don’t even need to be listening to anything! That’s the beauty of noise-canceling headphones on long flights. Pop these on and you’re instantly in your own little world.

Wired Headphones

Some airlines offer free in-flight entertainment via a screen built into the seat in front of you. You’ll notice that these have headphone jacks to plug into. If your noise-canceling headphones are wireless, you might want to bring a pair of wired ones if you’re planning on utilizing this amenity. Your old EarPods should do the trick.

Travel Pillow

This is about as essential as headphones. Countless times, I’ve witnessed people without travel pillows on long haul flights with their heads bobbing up and down or contorted in a weird position as they try to sleep upright. I get it, travel pillows are a nuisance to carry onto the plane and some just look silly–but, when it comes to getting restful sleep on a plane without the neck cramp, you’ll need it.

Before getting a travel pillow, I was one of those people that would get bad neck and back pain during my trip because of the poor positioning of my neck when sleeping on the plane. If this sounds all too familiar to you, just get a travel pillow. I got this one, which includes a carrying case (more hygienic) where you can roll it up to a more compact shape and clips onto your personal item easily so you’re not holding a bulky neck pillow as you walk to your terminal.

Eye mask

This is for those who are used to sleeping in complete darkness (studies show this is better for you), or for those instances where your neighbor has the reading light on the entire time while you’re trying to sleep. Yikes. Try it out before you go on the flight to make sure it’s not too tight and that you can actually sleep with it on. It takes some getting used to if you don’t typically wear one to sleep.

Photo by Ori Song on Unsplash

Face mask

OK, so you might look a little ridiculous with both an eye mask and a face mask, but if you’re an open-mouth sleeper, this might be a solution for you! If you don’t care, more power to you, but I know some people are self-conscious or tend to drool when they’re sleeping. If you’re one of those people and are looking for a quick solution, this is it.

Earplugs

If you’re skipping the noise canceling headphones, ear plugs are absolutely essential. Not just for the airplane, but maybe even for sleeping at the hostel or if you have really noisy neighbors at your Airbnb. Plus, they take virtually no space in your bag.

Compression socks

It’s debatable whether these are absolutely essential, but still, something to think about before embarking on your trip. Compression socks are made for people who will be sitting for extended periods of time to improve circulation in your legs and to combat fatigue or swelling. They also double as slippers if you’re brave enough to wear them from your seat to the restroom so you don’t have to put your shoes back on.

Melatonin

Sometimes you absolutely NEED to sleep on your flight in order to prevent jet lag (adjusting for the time at your destination). If you’re having a bout of restlessness, you probably want something to help you get there. Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that makes you sleepy and can help you adjust your internal clock. When you’re on a long flight, your body is all messed up on the days and time zones. It might be a good idea to take some melatonin with you to help you adjust–just use as directed!

In-flight essentials for staying awake on a long haul flight

Sometimes being on a long-haul flight doesn’t mean it’s in your best interest to sleep the entire 10 hours. The amount of time you should sleep to avoid jet lag is entirely dependent on the time zone of your destination. If you need to stay awake for the better leg of your flight, make sure you have a few options for keeping your mind engaged.

Photo by Daniel McCullough on Unsplash

Power Bank

This is a must for everyone traveling domestic or abroad. Too often I see people fighting over outlets at the airport or with a draining battery, which at that point, you’re tethered to a wall for 20 minutes to an hour. Not ideal for a vacation. Save yourself the trouble and use a portable power bank where you can plug and charge your electronic devices as you’re running around exploring.

Photo by BENCE BOROS on Unsplash

E-reader

An e-reader is perfect for flights because it’s lighter than a book, takes up very little space, and it’s like you’re bringing your whole library with you to choose from. The other great thing? If you end up finishing one of your books, you have more. We especially love the Paperwhite Kindle because it doesn’t strain your eyes with blue light, which can make it more difficult for you to sleep if you needed to sleep on the latter portion of your long flight. Of course, you can always use your phone or tablet to read, too!

Journal

When was the last time you picked up a pen and paper? A long flight is a perfect place to do that again and jot some ideas or thoughts down. You can plan your itinerary, doodle, and journal your experiences as you’re flying. Throw it back even more by playing a little tic-tac-toe or M*A*S*H with your neighbor.

Pen

This is simple but it’s always a good idea to bring a pen with you for filling out documents, taking quick notes, etc. Just don’t bring a fountain pen or something that can explode with the altitude change. Your best bet will be a ballpoint pen or the tried and true Micron felt tip pen (just make sure the cap is secure).

Pre-Downloaded Music, Shows, Podcasts, or Audiobooks

For long flights specifically, download your favorite music, shows or podcasts to listen to ahead of time. Spotify and Netflix apps have the option to download so you can listen to and watch your favorites without the need for WiFi or the dreaded buffering. You can even download apps for ambient noise or an audiobook app in lieu of an e-reader–something calm to listen to as you drift off into a deep slumber.

Hygiene and beauty travel essentials for long flights

If you’re a germaphobe like us, these are must-haves for any bag (long flight or not). Stay fresh before and after a long flight.

Photo by Workshop& on Unsplash

Moist towelettes

You can opt for hand sanitizer too, but these are slightly more useful. Use them for wiping down your seat area (those things can get pretty disgusting), as a substitute for washing your hands so you don’t have to get up or wait for the restroom, or for quickly wiping off light stains from clothes. These are useful on and off the flight for every sinkless situation.

Photo by Emily Boffeli

Water bottle

Of course, you need to stay hydrated. Flight attendants do not come around enough to hand you water, and even then, they’ll be handing you a plastic cup of water that you’ll consume within the next couple minutes because you’re afraid of spilling it. More plastic? No thanks.

Bring your own LARQ Bottle and fill it up at a water fountain in the airport after going past TSA. Ever think twice about filling at a station adjacent to the restrooms–eesh. That won’t happen with the LARQ Bottle. When you run out, ask your flight attendant to refill your water bottle instead of handing you a tiny cup of water. The bonus? You won’t have to worry about missing the next round of water if you were sleeping.

Moisturizer

When you’re flying, the altitude can make your skin extremely dry. It’s a good idea to pack some moisturizer with you and lip balm to keep your skin hydrated (drinking enough water will help too!).

Toothbrush & Toothpaste

Keep in mind, on a long flight, or even overnight one where you’ll be sleeping on the plane, your breath can get a little unpleasant. Spare yourself and your neighbor and plan to brush your teeth at some point during your flight. Plus, you’ll feel fresh coming off the plane–especially if you need to make a good impression right off your flight!

Photo by STIL on Unsplash

TSA-approved Toiletry bag

Clear 1 quart bags are a must when traveling abroad. Make things easy on yourself by packing this in your personal item or carry-on bag holding all your liquids in 100mL travel bottles. Having them all in one place makes going through TSA is a breeze, and you’ll have easier access to them on the flight.

Gum

If this is purely to smell nice, mints will do the trick too, but chewing gum can also help you release pressure from your ears on the flight.

First aid and medication

If you like to stay prepared, a first aid kit will be a staple in your travel pack. You never know if you’ll get a papercut that you’ll need to cover up, or if you’ll scrape up your knee on a hike in the Amazon.

Medication should be kept in the same place too–whatever medication you think you might need, just bring it, and bring a few extras just in case. If it’s something that could mean life or death, it’s smart to bring extra in a separate pouch or with someone you’re traveling with too. Remember to follow TSA’s rules and regulations for all medication.

Scarf

Whether it’s hot or cold in your destination, a scarf is something versatile you can bring with you on a trip. If it gets cold, you can simply use the scarf as a blanket.

Snacks

Don’t fall victim to hanger. Stashing a few snacks in your bag will prevent you from the dreaded irritability that can ruin your trip, especially if you’re traveling with other people. It’s a good idea to have them handy if you’re going on some hikes at your destination or if you have long days of touring and museum-ing.

Unfortunately, I don’t have a remedy for the child kicking your seat repeatedly besides politely bringing it to their parent or guardian’s attention in hopes that they’ll stop, but hopefully these are enough to help you deal with any other disruptions on the airplane. Happy travels!

Not a fan of crowds? Don’t like paying premium prices for travel and accommodations? Here’s a guide to the best times to travel to major vacation destinations in the off-season, and maybe some you might not have thought to visit before! Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing beach vacation or the type of traveler who loves to be immersed in another country’s culture, these places are must-sees for everyone!

Paris, France

Photo by JOHN TOWNER on Unsplash

The peak season to travel to Paris is during the summer months anywhere from May – September. Paris is beautiful in the summertime, but there’s a certain charm to it in October through November and March through April too if you’re not a fan of super warm weather. You can enjoy the leaves falling in autumn, overcast skies (which by the way creates nice soft lighting for all your pictures), or spring weather in the 60s-70s so you can enjoy walking 10 or more miles per day and without being drenched in sweat.

New Orleans, Louisiana, US

Photo by William Recinos on Unsplash

Off season travel to New Orleans lands around January-December. You’ll find cheap flights, budget-friendly accommodations, and enjoy the amazing culture and food there. Prices increase quite a bit in the Spring, but if you prefer warmer weather, this might be a better option for you than to travel in the brisk winter. It’s definitely a must-see and one of the most underrated cities in the U.S., so we had to include it in this list! If you can brave a little bit of cold, traveling in the off-season will be a breeze.

Iceland

Photo by Nicolas J Leclercq on Unsplash

Avoid traveling to Iceland during July through mid-August if you are planning to visit the more popular destinations like the Blue Lagoon or the Golden Circle. Opting for shoulder seasons like September-October and February-March for less severe winters, and less crowded tourist attractions. Plus, if you’re traveling to Iceland to view the Northern Lights, the best time to view them will be around September through late March. You’ll score cheaper airfare during these months, and have a higher chance of viewing the northern lights one of the nights you’re there.

Greece

Photo by Charlie Marusiak on Unsplash

Yet another popular tourist destination, Greece offers impeccable sightseeing, gorgeous panoramic views, and delicious food. Traveling between June – August would be a nightmare due to crowds of tourists traveling for vacation. The best time to travel in the off season in Greece is in March, right before it starts to get really warm. For all you people who hate the heat, you might want to hit up Greece in March or earlier!

The Bahamas

Photo by Gregory Culmer on Unsplash

When traveling to islands close to the equator, the weather is usually a lot warmer year-round, but depending where you are, you may risk entering these countries during hurricane season. The best time of year to visit the Bahamas to beat crowds is autumn where the beaches are emptier and you’ll be able to really soak in all its glory. BUT, be wary that peak hurricane season occurs between early August and the end of October. Crowds of tourists start picking up around January – April and things get a little pricier during that time too.

Taipei, Taiwan

Photo by Thomas Tucker on Unsplash

The best time of year to visit Taipei is a brief window from September to November, during dry conditions and moderate temperatures from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Taipei is known for its nightlife, street food culture, and amazing noodle and dumpling restaurants. You’ll be able to enjoy them a little more with thinner crowds.

Costa Rica

Photo by Miguel Bruna on Unsplash

If you love lush greenery, the landscapes of Costa Rica will absolutely take your breath away. The dry season tends to be the most expensive here from mid-December through April. If you don’t mind getting a little wet and want to save some money, travel during May – November when prices are the lowest due to higher precipitation. It is equally as beautiful–if not more beautiful–when it rains because of the gorgeous post-rain foliage. The bonus here is fewer tourists so you can enjoy the lush land without the noise of obnoxious travelers. Just be prepared for some rain!

Marrakech, Morocco

Photo by Kees Kortmulder on Unsplash

Beat the crowds and the scorching hot temperatures by visiting Marrakech in the Fall (no one likes a burnt cookie). Plus, you’ll reap the benefits of booking more affordable flight prices during this time. All that saving can allow you to purchase a few unique souvenirs from the renowned marketplaces or treating yourself to a luxury stay at one of the beautiful hotels in Marrakech.

London

Photo by Luca Micheli on Unsplash

Enjoy lower airfare to London and slightly chillier temperatures from mid-September through November. You’ll even save on hotel rates during this time. Due to the off-season, it’ll be easier to navigate the streets of London and check out the most touristy destinations with much thinner crowds. Say hello to the Queen for us?

Lake Tahoe, California, US

Photo by Clara Marie on Unsplash

Looking for a relaxing getaway in the summer on a budget? Lake Tahoe is gorgeous in the summer, with ski resorts offering deals and cheap stays in the off season. For the thrill-seekers, take a hike in the mountains surrounding Lake Tahoe or paddle-board, kayak, and wade in the lake itself. The clear, calm waters are perfect for hanging out and taking a dip in the summer. For the self-care enthusiasts, book a spa day or massage at one of Lake Tahoe’s resorts at discounted rates.

Florence, Italy

Photo by Mark Tegethoff on Unsplash

If you’re a fan of rich historical culture and beautifully preserved architecture, you won’t want to miss Florence. It’s pretty much tourist-free from November – April, so you can avoid those crowds and see the sights as the locals would. Europe in the off-season is also a little safer; because there aren’t as many crowds, there is a slimmer chance of getting pickpocketed.

Bali, Indonesia

Photo by Dennis Rochel on Unsplash

A popular honeymoon destination, Bali speaks to the adventurers and luxury travelers alike. There is lush greenery, amazing resorts, affordable massages, spas, and beautiful hikes–plus, the food is amazing, and cheap! Visit in the off season between September and October where prices for flights and even luxury resorts are at their lowest.

New York, New York, US

Photo by Nicolai Berntsen on Unsplash

Travel to the Big Apple is the most pleasant during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) where you’ll see high prices in both airfare and accommodations. If you don’t mind the cold though, the most affordable times to visit New York is from mid-January to early March.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Photo by Ivan Ivankovic on Unsplash

Home of the famous red-tiled roofs featured in “Game of Thrones”, the best time to visit Dubrovnik is during September or October with fewer crowds and more affordable hotel rates. Enjoy the beautiful turquoise waters of the Dalmatian Coast and beach-lounging.

Life’s short. Take some time off to travel and see the world, be immersed in the culture, and you know–just take a break from work for once! You’ve earned that time off, why not spend it on new experiences?