JESSICA JONES | DEPARTURE LOUNGE

Journey Elite Travel
Seasonal Hues

Japan

One Season, Two Experiences - Autumn Travel Guide

This fall, would you rather take in nature’s sublime cathedral of fall foliage, or, at the same time of year, breathe in the sweet floral scents of springtime? Believe it or not, there are destinations where you can enjoy either spectacle this autumn - and it's just around the corner. Start planning your seasonal adventure now.

Lodge at Spruce Peak, Vermont

Lodge at Spruce Peak, Vermont

For Leaf Peepers: It's hard to beat the vibrant reds, crisp oranges and brilliant yellows of Maine, Vermont and New Hampshire—unless you head farther north to Quebec, Canada. Wander through the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site. For an even more impressive view, take a scenic drive along the St. Lawrence River or visit nearby parks to fully appreciate the spectacular autumn display.


If you are up for a long-haul flight, momiji-gari (maple leaf hunting) is popular in Japan, too. Lake Kawaguchi is easy to reach from Tokyo and has grand views of Mt. Fuji. Visit during November’s Autumn Leaves festival and don’t miss the Maple Corridor where about 60 glowing trees create a magical canopy to walk through.

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand | Table Cap Tulip Farm, Tasmania

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand | Table Cap Tulip Farm, Tasmania

For Flower Fanatics: In Sydney, Australia and throughout New South Wales, flowering jacaranda trees provide stunning splashes of purple that signal spring in October. In Tasmania, October is also the best time to capture the cheery delight of tulips at Hobart’s Royal Botanical Gardens or at tulip farms across the state.


Heading to New Zealand? Admire the sprightly yellow blooms of the kowhai tree throughout both main islands. Auckland is a good place to start your flower crawl – beyond the kowhai, look for cherry blossoms, magnolias, daffodils, tulips and rhododendrons to light up the city’s parks and botanical gardens. (Note: if you’ve always wanted to take in Amsterdam’s famous tulip beds, book now for blooms that begin mid-April and run till mid-May.)

Fall foliage or spring blooms? Choose your colorful adventure and let's start planning.

Finding Balance

Sensei Lanai, Hawaii

What Does Wellness Mean to You? 

Wellness travel has evolved far beyond the traditional spa getaway. Today, it encompasses a wide range of experiences that nourish the mind, body, and soul in diverse ways. The best type of wellness travel brings you closer to your happy place, offering a myriad of experiences tailored to your personal definition of well-being.


For the creatively inclined, wellness might mean expressing yourself through art. Imagine painting en plein air amidst breathtaking landscapes or penning your memoir in a serene villa overlooking the ocean. Some retreats offer guided painting classes or writing workshops to help nurture your artistic side. Music lovers can find harmony in wellness retreats that incorporate sound healing or offer instrument lessons.

Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa | Alila Ventana Big Sur

Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa | Alila Ventana Big Sur | Skiing | Mii amo - Mountain Biking

Nature enthusiasts might find their zen through outdoor activities. From invigorating mountain hikes and thrilling heli-skiing adventures to peaceful forest bathing experiences, the great outdoors offers countless ways to rejuvenate your mind and body. Yoga sessions on the beach, meditation in alpine meadows, or cycling through picturesque countryside can all contribute to a sense of wellness.


For those seeking spiritual growth, pilgrimage walks or mindfulness retreats might be the answer. Whether it's trekking ancient paths or participating in guided meditation sessions, these experiences can offer profound insights and personal transformation.

Chiva-Som Hua Hin, Thailand | Six Senses Douro Valley, Portugal | The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman

Chiva-Som Hua Hin, Thailand | Six Senses Douro Valley, Portugal | The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman

Wellness travel also encompasses physical health and longevity. Many resorts now offer comprehensive programs focusing on "healthspan" - the amount of time one remains healthy and active. These may include personalized fitness regimens, nutrition counseling, and cutting-edge spa treatments designed to enhance your overall well-being.


Culinary wellness is another growing trend. Farm-to-table experiences, cooking classes focused on healthy cuisine, and personalized meal plans can help you develop sustainable healthy eating habits while indulging in delicious, nourishing food.


For families, wellness travel can mean quality time together away from digital distractions. Think of resorts offering programs that encourage family bonding through shared activities like nature walks, team-building exercises, or creative projects.

Remember, wellness is deeply personal. I can help you discover the perfect wellness experience that aligns with your unique definition of well-being.

Unexplored Isles

Balos Lagoon Crete, Greece

Discover Greek Islands Beyond Santorini

Off the beaten track travel is made easy when exploring the Greek archipelago. Thousands of islands and islets (about 200 are populated) are spread throughout the Aegean Sea – hop on local ferries or short flights to discover one that's new to you. Here are my suggestions:

Cosme Hotel, Paros | Naxos, Greece

Cosme Hotel Paros, Greece | Naxos, Greece

Paros - Traditional Greek island known for its fishing villages and beaches. Party reputation for sparkling nightlife. Main entertainments include watersports, outdoorsy activities and happy hour. Must do— day trip to next door Antiparos island to explore its deep cave full of stalactites and stalagmites and grand views from the cave entrance.


Naxos - Largest and greenest of the Greek isles. Can be busier in summer with its cruise port. Famous for wide, protected shallow-water beaches. Hikers enjoy Mount Zeus, the tallest peak in Cyclades. The Chora, Naxos Town, is popular for its quaint waterfront, a hilltop fortress, lovely Venetian mansions and scenic stone alleyways.

Cave of Papafragas Milos, Cyclades | Phāea Blue Palace, Crete

Cave of Papafragas Milos, Cyclades | Phāea Blue Palace, Crete

Milos - Home to more beaches than any other island in the Cyclades. Known for its natural beauty, including a nature reserve (watch for the Mediterranean monk seal), impressive rock formations, hot springs, billowing steam vents and mineral quarries.


Crete - Largest island with an eye-pleasing variety of terrain including valleys, villages, mountain peaks, caves and beaches. Three island airports makes it easy to reach. Adventurers head for the bungee jump in Europe's longest gorge when not rock climbing, mountaineering or rappelling. History buffs head for the many Bronze age ruins. Foodies head to Chania, known for its high-quality tavernas and quality of Cretan cuisine.

There’s so much more to Greece than Santorini – let’s find a new island for you.

Journey Security

Why you Need Travel Insurance Now More Than Ever

Cancellation insurance, luggage insurance, health insurance, trip disruption insurance – policies that may have once seemed optional or the last thing on a traveler’s to-do list are now essential items. 


With recent surges in flight cancellations and travel disruptions, it's more important than ever to protect your journey. Cancellation policies for many airlines and land-based tour operators are much stricter these days – if changes suddenly need to happen in your itinerary, it’s better to be prepared with an insurance policy to cover your investment and a travel advisor who has your back. 


Delays happen. Bags get lost. Accidents occur. Talk to me about the many ways you can protect yourself while on the road.

Find out what insurance options and assurances I can provide for your next trip.

Jessica Jones

Happy Travels,

Jessica Jones

Jessica Jones

Journey Elite Travel

My Virtuoso landing page is perfect for simple hotel bookings, and it offers the added benefit of exclusive amenities. When you book through my Virtuoso page, you not only get access to a seamless booking experience but also enjoy special amenities tailored to enhance your stay. If you have a hotel/location in mind, simply click on the link below to book and take advantage of these exclusive benefits.

Jessica Jones, Virtuoso

Virtuoso Member

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