An experience outside of time: the panoramic view from this private haven atop the Palacio Belmonte is nothing short of breathtaking. Several strains of fado music make their way up to our perch high above the rooftops of the city, melodies blending as they waft on the slight tendrils of a cool breeze.

For near a thousand years Castelnau des Fieumarcon has commanded its stunning vantage point above the rolling hills of Gascony. Now weddings and events utilize this incredible medieval fortress as an unforgettable backdrop.

Venice appeared to float on the lagoon, the water gleaming like a mirage as the sun began to dip in the sky. Charming outdoor markets, romantically arched bridges and countless gelato purveyors marked our way. We wound through a maze of streets shortly arriving at our Bed & Breakfast.

Pinot Di Loto is the perfect refuge for honeymooners and island hoppers alike, perched overlooking breathtaking panoramic ocean views from the sunset side of the island of Syros, with its bright white classic Grecian structures framing a glimmering pool and well stocked bar.

Townhouse Tessa is the perfect home base while exploring Salzburg.

In Venice the streets near the most typical sights are packed in summer. We preferred exploring corners of the city that were a little more tucked away and we found ourselves venturing under a church into a dark, cavern-like crypt that looked like something out of an Indian Jones film.

Venetian masks are infamous but the tradition of masquerade apparently spawned such widespread hedonism in the opulent Venetian Republic that the Roman Catholic Church restricted the use of masks until this practice was constrained to certain festivals. Now the masks are reserved for Carnival and playful parties.

Our stay in Venice was made memorable by the endearing company of good friends who kept us laughing, showed us the city from a local perspective and in every way made us feel truly at home. Our last evening in the city was no exception. Conversation and laughter took the place of sleep that night and it was just before dawn when a friend personally ferried us through dark and eerily quiet canals, then out into the lagoon to the airport to catch an early flight.

An exquisite blend of traditional Venetian craftsmanship in modern design complete with every amenity and comfort, Palazzo Morosini Degli Spezieri is the perfect home away from home in Venice. History & Flavor: The palazzo is home to nine apartments, each named after a different spice.

The hotels of Tulum are plentiful and very hit or miss. Truly some of the most unique and magical accommodations you will ever experience can be found here. These are some of my absolute favorites.

As sunset met twilight in Paris, we were aloft, the Notre Dame rising from behind the glowing square and infamous glass pyramids of the Louvre. La Tour Eiffel glimmering across the Seine, while opposite, the Sacre Coeur atop Montmartre adorned itself in the last of the evening’s rays. We soaked in the incredible vista as the glow of the city’s lights appeared one by one.

The magnificent Palace of Versailles is one of Paris' crowning jewels. This iconic monument to opulence is a mere 45 minutes by train from the heart of Paris but when you arrive, you enter another world. A brief history of Versailles and what to know before you go...