I recently traveled to Germany and Austria with a few wonderful travel advisors, and I was reminded once again why it’s so important to shift the focus from ONLY visiting the cities and landmarks you’ve seen on postcards. The real magic often happens when those bucket list cities are thoughtfully paired with places that feel more personal, more authentic, and far less crowded. The places Americans seldom end up.
This is where I love to add value for my clients– creating “perfect pairings” that balance must-see highlights with hidden gems.
Visiting the family friendly resort Das Achental in the charming Alpine village of Grassau, Germany was the perfect reminder. This four star superior family owned golf and wellness resort even offered three Michelin stared dining on-site, but it was the setting that really stood out. A 5 minute walk from property allows guests to be immersed in a local Bavarian village, complete with a small bakery, walking trails, and community gathering places.
And it got me thinking. Pairing Oktoberfest in the vibrant Munich with a wellness retreat in this authentic village gives travelers the best of both worlds.
Or consider Portugal, where one of my clients is headed soon. Lisbon offers them culture, history, and incredible food—but pairing it with a quieter village, Porches, in the Algarve creates a completely different dimension to the trip. Instead of only experiencing Portugal’s vibrant capital, they’ll also enjoy peaceful coastal scenery, local charm, and a more relaxed rhythm of life.
And finally there’s Tuscany. Rather than hopping between hotels, I am thrilled that my clients have chosen a private villa rental. This allows them to settle in, explore surrounding villages at their own pace, enjoy local markets, and even bring in a private chef for an evening. When paired with time in a major city like Florence or Rome, it creates a beautiful contrast between cultural immersion and restorative downtime.
The goal is never to skip the highlights—it’s to enhance them. By pairing well-known destinations with lesser-known, authentic places, the trip becomes more your own.
If you’re dreaming about your next getaway, I’d love to help you design a journey that feels perfectly paired—just for you.
Beyond The Usual Trail 