We asked travel advisors Carie Skerritt and Bill Sharo who own the travel agency Dream Vacations to tell us about their favorite places they’ve ever been to and why they love them. You can find their favorite international destinations as well as domestic ones below. If our travel advisors’ favorite places inspire you, book a trip through Skerritt and Sharo to experience their favorite destinations for yourself.
1. Bruges, Belgium
Noting Bruges’s cobblestone streets, canals, and ornate buildings, Skerritt and Sharo say it’s “one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe.” Located on the west side of Belgium, this medieval city could easily serve as the set of a Hallmark Christmas movie, complete with horse-drawn carriages. Speaking of Christmas, this charming city also hosts the Bruges Winter Glow Christmas Market, one of the best Christmas markets in Belgium.
2. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is “a favorite walking city” of our travel advisors, “just for the Gaudi-inspired architecture,” according to the pair. That’s a good thing, considering all the Spanish cuisine you’ll consume while here. “Tapas — all small plates — is our favorite way to eat,” say Skerritt and Sharo. Taste your way through La Boqueria Market, one of the world’s most amazing markets. The major gastronomy hub boasts over 200 stalls selling fresh fruits and vegetables, seafood, meat, and various spices. You can also find some pretty amazing paella in this Spanish city.
3. Paris, France
“The romance, the architecture, and the food — what’s not to love about Paris?” Sherrit and Sharo ask. Between picture-perfect picnics at secret parks and gardens and outdoor cafes with great views of the classic Parisian sites, there is so much to love (and eat!). Once you’ve seen the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and the Opera house, check out these more unusual attractions.
We love Paris in the springtime and in the fall, but it’s also wonderful at Christmas and during the summer. Okay, we love Paris in every season! Booking your trip now? Here are some things to know before your first trip to Paris.
4. Rome, Italy
Home to Vatican City, the Colosseum, and the Pantheon, Rome is one of our travel advisors’ favorite places because it has “so much history and architecture, restaurants with amazing food, warm and friendly people, and beautiful churches,” according to the duo. Book a trip with Skerritt and Sharo and you’ll be tossing a coin into the Trevi fountain in no time. If you do go, here’s how to roam around Rome.
5. Curaçao
Home to some of the world’s best diving and more than 30 beaches, Curaçao is a Dutch Caribbean island that lies just 40 miles north of Venezuela. This tropical island makes our travel advisors list of favorite destinations for its “very friendly people, beautiful colorful architecture, and great snorkeling.”
Along with Aruba and Bonaire, Curaçao is part of the ABC islands. Its capital, Willemstad, features pastel-colored colonial architecture, a pontoon bridge that floats on the water, and a sand-floored synagogue.
6. Scottsdale, AZ
Popular with snowbirds and retirees alike, Scottsdale makes Skerritt and Sharo’s list for its “great relaxing spa environment and art scene.” Old Town, its charming downtown area, features shopping, restaurants, bars, and art galleries. ArtWalks are held every Thursday evening.
This warm getaway also offers several outdoor activities, including golfing, horseback riding, hot air ballooning, and hiking. Magical holiday events make it one of the best Arizona cities to visit during the Christmas season. If you visit this desert community during Christmastime, check out Christmas at the Princess, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess’s holiday extravaganza.
7. Fort Lauderdale, FL
“Beautiful beaches, a friendly, diverse culture, and a casual environment” are what Skerritt and Sharo love about Fort Lauderdale. Located on the Atlantic coast between Miami and Palm Beach, this South Florida city is even warm in the wintertime. In addition to its beaches, Fort Lauderdale is known for its arts and shopping. Check out these bars and restaurants next time you visit.
