Travel Experiences from iBestTravel Team

One of the best things about working at iBestTravel is that discussing travel plans is considered work. And we have much to discuss. It seems that nearly every week, one or more of my colleagues explores an incredible destination and returns with inspiring stories and travel tips.

Mostly, these trips are for research, but there are annual leave vacations in the mix too, and we love to chat at length about the lovely memories we created with families, friends, or even just by ourselves. Just this month, for example, my colleague Chamidae visited Ecuador with her mom, where they swam with turtles in the Galápagos Islands and went horseback riding in Cotopaxi—”pinch-me” experiences they’ll never forget. Our photo editor, Erin, finally managed to get away for a belated honeymoon with her husband to the Azores, where they island-hopped, swam in thermal pools, and discovered a new love for Verdelho wine.

Isla Holbox, Mexico

Serina Patel, Marketing Manager

I took a trip to the beautiful Isla Holbox, Mexico, for my sister’s birthday. We flew from New York to Cancún, drove to Chiquila, and hopped over to the island by ferry. It’s a car-free island, with buggy taxis or bikes to get around. While there are tourists, the volume is not nearly as overwhelming as Cancún or Tulum—which is perfect if you need a peaceful getaway.

I stayed at Punta Caliza, a gorgeous spot with its own beach club down the road. The best things I ate, and still dream about, are the chile relleno tacos and tostones with guac from Ser Casasandra Mojito Beach Club. You also can’t miss checking out Milpa, a stunning spot with a tasting menu. We indulged in cocktails by the beach at sunset, walked to Punta Mosquito (where early morning visits offer sightings of flamingos), and went horseback riding. What more could one ask for?

My tip: Bring plenty of sunscreen, bug spray, and cash for taxis. Additionally, consider scheduling advanced reservations for special dinners and beach clubs.

Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

Aoife Breslin, Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

During my week traveling along the Dalmatian Coast of Croatia, I stopped in Split, Korčula, and Makarska. I savored home-cooked meals in family-run taverns, explored ancient ruins and natural landscapes, and learned about culinary traditions from locals.

A highlight was kayaking to the island of Vrnik, which appeared almost deserted yet is home to some of Croatia’s most beautiful beaches and secluded sea coves. On our guided tour, we learned about the island’s quarrying history before enjoying lunch at the Vrnik Arts Club, one of the few guest houses on the island.

My tip: Don’t miss trying torta makarana, a traditional Croatian cake-like dessert that combines almonds, citrus, rose oil, and vanilla for a sweet yet tangy flavor.

Santorini, Greece

Chris Zeiher, Senior Director of Sales Trade and Marketing

While visiting Santorini, we joined a day trip led by Nikolas Panagiotakis from Wineways to sample the island’s best food and wine. Our first stop was the architecturally stunning Estate Argyros, the largest privately owned winery on Santorini, where we enjoyed indigenous wines, including Assyrtiko, which resembles champagne without the bubbles.

Afterward, we traveled to the sparsely populated Akrotiri to visit a charming farmhouse, savoring home-style cooking that featured Greek Salad with pickled caper leaves and tyropita (cheese pie drizzled in sweet grape preserves), all while entertained by Donkey Marco Polo.

My tip: Cruise boat day-trippers often fill Oia and Thira during the day, so focus on alternatives like Pyrgos for crowd-free views of the entire island.

Azores, Portugal

Erin Lenczycki, Photo Editor

I spent a week in the Azores for a belated honeymoon, visiting three islands: São Miguel, Terceira, and Pico. I was amazed at how much the landscape transformed as we moved, with each island boasting its unique beauty. This is definitely a destination where I could return multiple times, as I felt we only scratched the surface of what they offer.

The highlight of my stay was at Caprica Eco Lodge on Terceira. Despite being rained in for most of our time there, it was marvelous to listen to the rain surrounded by forest while sipping bubbly. We explored all the hot springs on São Miguel, especially the Termas da Ferraria, where low tides create warm water alcoves mixed with cooling ocean waves—an ideal experience. On Pico, we dined at Cella Bar, enjoying incredible food while watching a massive storm roll in. I became a huge fan of Verdelho wine!

My tip: I highly recommend renting a car to discover hidden gems and customize your itinerary based on the weather.

Ecuador

Chamidae Ford, Associate Writer

I recently spent ten days exploring Ecuador with my mom, starting from Quito, visiting the Galápagos Islands, and hiking in Cotopaxi. We experienced some of the country’s most beautiful sights, snorkeling around Tintoreras, which is a magical islet off the coast of Isabela Island in the Galápagos. Who wouldn’t enjoy swimming with sea turtles? One unexpected gem of the trip was hiking to the caldera of the Sierra Negra Volcano on Isabela Island; it was simply stunning!

My tip: Be prepared for the significant altitude (it’s no joke!) by allowing yourself time to adjust before diving into activities.