Jetsetter Stories: Travel Inspiration & Expert Tips
Welcome to Jetsetter Stories, the travel inspiration blog from Jetsetter Society.
Here you’ll find expert insights, destination guides, and travel planning tips for some of the world’s most incredible experiences — from European vacations and luxury cruises to family travel and bucket-list destinations.
As a luxury travel advisor and Travel Leaders Network Super Agent, I share firsthand travel experiences, planning advice, and destination inspiration to help you plan meaningful, unforgettable trips.
Explore the latest stories below — and when you’re ready to turn inspiration into reality, I’d love to help plan your journey.
Jetsetter Stories is written by Boston-area luxury travel advisor Marci Gelinas, founder of Jetsetter Society.
✈️ JW Marriott Marco Island: The Perfect Blend of Family Fun & Adults-Only Luxury
A firsthand JW Marriott Marco Island review—why it’s perfect for both couples and families, how to plan the best stay, where to eat, and insider tips (including the best sunset on the island).
Explora Journeys vs Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection: Which Luxury Cruise Is Right for You?
Explora Journeys vs Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection—two of the most sought-after luxury cruises at sea. But which one is actually right for you? From suite design to service style and overall experience, here’s what you need to know before you book.
🇮🇹 Bucket List Spotlight: The Amalfi Coast
Dreaming of visiting Italy’s Amalfi Coast? Discover the most beautiful towns like Positano and Ravello, unforgettable experiences like boat days and limoncello tastings, and expert tips for planning the perfect Amalfi Coast vacation.
🏓 Pickleball on the Danube: An Active River Cruise Through Europe (July 2027)
Danube River Cruise with optional pickleball aboard AmaMagna, July 2027. Explore Budapest, Vienna & Salzburg on this hosted active European sailing.
🌿 Bucket List Spotlight: Costa Rica for Adventurous Families
Costa Rica is a bucket list destination for families who love adventure, nature, and unforgettable shared experiences. Here’s why it works so well—especially with older kids and teens.
Whether you’re traveling with teens, grandparents, or everyone in between, this is one destination where every generation finds something to fall in love with.
Summer Family Travel: When to Plan, When to Book, and When to Wait
A realistic guide to summer family travel—when to plan, when to book, and when waiting makes sense, based on real family needs and school schedules.
Three All-Inclusive Resorts Families Always Ask Me About
Families often ask me about these three all-inclusive resorts. Here’s what each one is really like—and which type of family tends to love each most.
🎓 Planning a Graduation Trip: A Meaningful Way to Celebrate Your Senior
Graduation is a major milestone. From bucket-list family adventures to all-inclusive trips with friends and graduation cruises, here’s how to plan a meaningful graduation trip your senior will never forget.
Why This Mother–Daughter River Cruise Will Stay With Me Forever
Traveling through Europe on a river cruise with my daughter wasn’t just about the destinations — it was about slowing down, reconnecting, and sharing moments that don’t fit into everyday life. This journey reminded me why intentional travel matters, especially with our kids.
Why Everyone Is Suddenly Asking Me About River Cruises… (Especially Active Families!)
River cruising has quietly become one of the biggest trends in family travel — not just for couples in their 50s and 60s (though they love it too!), but for multi-generational families ages 10–110 who want easy, enriching, activity-filled trips without the crowds or chaos of big ships.
Beyond the Caribbean: Luxury Family Cruises Worth Booking for Winter 2026
When most families picture a winter cruise, they instantly think Caribbean. And while there’s nothing wrong with turquoise water and piña coladas, many of today’s luxury-minded travelers are craving something different — a deeper experience, a touch more culture, and the kind of memories that go beyond a beach photo.
If you’ve “been there, done that” with the Caribbean circuit, it might be time to look further. The good news? The world of luxury family cruising has never offered more options. From sleek ocean ships to elegant river vessels, you can now explore destinations once thought too far, too exotic, or too complicated — all with the ease and comfort of a floating five-star resort.
Gifting Travel: The Most Memorable Gift You Can Give
This year, give them something they’ll never return—a vacation.
Whether it’s a surprise weekend getaway, a future girls’ trip, or a family cruise with memories built-in, travel is the gift that just keeps giving.
Here’s why gifting travel is better than anything you’ll find on a store shelf—and how I can help you make it happen.
Holiday Travel Tips from a Pro: Flights, Hotels & Sanity
🎄🦃 Let’s be real—holiday travel can either be magical or manic.
Whether you’re flying home for Thanksgiving, sneaking away for a tropical Christmas, or hosting somewhere far from home, a little prep now saves a lot of chaos later.
Here’s your go-to guide for traveling smart this holiday season—complete with tips for flights, hotels, packing, and keeping your sanity intact.
The Ultimate Jetsetter Packing Guide: Travel Lighter, Smarter, Chicer
Overpacked and overwhelmed? Been there. The real luxury is traveling with ease—knowing you’ve packed exactly what you need (and nothing you don’t). Whether you're jetting off for a romantic Amalfi getaway, a group cruise, or a family beach trip, these tips will keep you stylish, organized, and stress-free.
Your Fall Travel Fix: Luxe Long Weekends & Leaf-Peeping Escapes
From New England foliage to tropical retreats, here are the best luxury escapes for Columbus Day, Thanksgiving, or a cozy fall weekend.
Back to School, Book a Trip: How Planning Ahead Saves You $$
As the school year kicks into gear and calendars fill up fast, this is the best time to hit pause and think ahead. Want to avoid the stress of sold-out resorts or sky-high airfare? Booking early gives you access to the best prices, availability, and upgrades—especially if you’re planning around school breaks like Thanksgiving, February Vacation, or Spring Break.
This guide is your cheat sheet for why now is the sweet spot for planning—and where to go.
🌿 Bucket List Spotlight: Why Greece is the Ultimate Family Destination
✨ Bucket List Spotlight: Greece ✨
When families dream of a destination that blends history, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences, Greece always rises to the top. Imagine wandering the ancient streets of Athens one day, then watching a Santorini sunset the next. From island-hopping adventures to fresh Mediterranean cuisine that kids and adults both love, Greece offers a perfect balance of culture and calm.
Whether you’re traveling with teens, grandparents, or everyone in between, this is one destination where every generation finds something to fall in love with.
Villa vs. Resort: Which Is Better for a Multigenerational Trip?
When planning a milestone trip, should you book a resort or a villa? Here’s why private villas often deliver more space, privacy, and value for families.
Harmony of the Seas: Why I Chose This Ship for My 2026 Group Cruise
Planning a group trip is part science, part art. For 2026, I chose Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas —here’s why it’s the perfect ship for families and first-time Europe travelers.