Journeys With Jani

Hidden Gem Destinations for 2025: Where to Go Before the Crowds Arrive

February 8, 2025

Travel Advice

By Jani Aylsworth-Gunter, Take Time To Travel

Where would you like to find yourself tomorrow?

We all love a bucket-list destination—Paris, Santorini, the Maldives—but let’s be honest, sometimes those iconic spots are crowded, overpriced, and overrun with tourists. If you’re looking for something extraordinary and off the beaten path, 2025 is the perfect time to explore hidden gem destinations that offer authentic experiences, stunning scenery, and fewer crowds.

As a Travel Advisor with Take Time To Travel, I’m always scouting out the best places to visit before they become the next big thing. So, if you want to be ahead of the travel trends, here are five incredible hidden gem destinations for 2025!

1. Alentejo, Portugal – Wine Country Without the Crowds 🍷🇵🇹

Move over, Douro Valley—Alentejo is Portugal’s next big thing! This sun-soaked region is a paradise for wine lovers and foodies, offering rolling vineyards, medieval villages, and a slower pace than Lisbon or Porto.

🌟 Why Visit?

✔️ Incredible wine tasting with fewer tourists

✔️ Historic towns like Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

✔️ Stunning coastal cliffs along the Alentejo Coast

✔️ Affordable luxury compared to other European wine regions

🌍 Perfect for: Couples, wine lovers, and culture seekers

2. Lofoten Islands, Norway – Arctic Beauty Without the Freezing Temps ❄️🏔️

Norway’s Lofoten Islands are an untouched Arctic paradise, known for dramatic mountains, fishing villages, and colorful cabins perched along the fjords. And guess what? Thanks to the Gulf Stream, it’s surprisingly mild, even in winter!

🌟 Why Visit?

✔️ Jaw-dropping scenery straight out of a postcard

✔️ Midnight sun in summer, Northern Lights in winter

✔️ Incredible outdoor adventures—hiking, kayaking, and even surfing!

✔️ A quieter alternative to Iceland’s overcrowded spots

🌍 Perfect for: Outdoor adventurers, photographers, and Northern Lights chasers

3. Luang Prabang, Laos – The Underrated Southeast Asian Gem 🏯🌿

Skip the crowds in Thailand and Bali—Luang Prabang is a hidden jewel where colonial charm meets Buddhist serenity. Nestled between two rivers, this UNESCO-listed city offers stunning temples, lush mountains, and some of the most soulful sunrises in Asia.

🌟 Why Visit?

✔️ Stunning waterfalls (hello, Kuang Si Falls!)

✔️ Morning alms-giving ceremonies with monks

✔️ Affordable luxury—beautiful hotels at a fraction of the cost

✔️ A more peaceful, cultural experience than Thailand

🌍 Perfect for: Culture lovers, spiritual seekers, and slow travelers

4. Dominica – The Caribbean’s Best-Kept Secret 🌴🌊

Not to be confused with the Dominican Republic, Dominica (pronounced “Dom-in-EEK-a”) is the “Nature Island” of the Caribbean. While other islands are packed with all-inclusives, Dominica is an untouched paradise of volcanic peaks, rainforest hikes, and hidden waterfalls.

🌟 Why Visit?

✔️ Stunning natural beauty—hot springs, waterfalls, and black sand beaches

✔️ World-class diving and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters

✔️ The only Caribbean island with a boiling lake!

✔️ One of the best places to see whales year-round

🌍 Perfect for: Nature lovers, eco-travelers, and adventurers

5. Salta, Argentina – South America’s Hidden Wine & Desert Escape 🍇🏜️

Tired of hearing about Mendoza? Head to Salta, a hidden gem in Argentina’s northwest, where red rock landscapes meet incredible wineries. Think Grand Canyon vibes mixed with Spanish colonial charm—plus some of the best Malbec wine you’ll ever taste!

🌟 Why Visit?

✔️ Breathtaking landscapes, from salt flats to rainbow-colored mountains

✔️ A more off-the-beaten-path wine experience

✔️ The famous “Train to the Clouds” scenic railway

✔️ Authentic local culture, delicious empanadas, and warm hospitality

🌍 Perfect for: Wine enthusiasts, road-trippers, and those who love unique landscapes

Let’s Get You to One of These Hidden Gems!

If you’re looking to skip the tourist traps and experience somewhere authentic, breathtaking, and still under the radar, these destinations are calling your name!

Not sure which one is right for you? That’s where I come in! As a Travel Advisor with Take Time To Travel, I’ll help match you with the perfect hidden gem destination and handle all the details—so all you have to do is pack your bags and enjoy the adventure!

Jani, your go-to-gal at Take Time To Travel

#TakeTimeToTravel #HiddenGems2025 #TravelAdvisor #LuxuryTravel #UnderratedDestinations #WhereToNext #AdventureAwaits

The Take Time To Travel Team – Cindy, Jani, Tammy, Trisha, Krystal

Life is one big journey—and I’m sharing mine, one mile and one moment at a time. Subscribe to follow along.

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Wrangling the Little Rascals

February 6, 2025

Travel Advice

By Jani Aylsworth-Gunter, Take Time To Travel

Wrangling the Little Rascals: A Sassy Southern Guide to Traveling with Kids

Well, bless your heart if you’re fixin’ to travel with children! As a mom, gramma and travel advisor, I’ve seen it all—from toddlers throwin’ tantrums to teens rollin’ their eyes. But fear not, sugar; with a pinch of patience and a dash of humor, you can turn your family vacation into a cherished memory rather than a chaotic mess. Here are my top tips to keep your journey smoother than sweet tea on a hot Georgia day.

1. Plan, but Don’t Overplan

It’s tempting to schedule every minute, but kids can be as unpredictable as a summer storm. Leave room for spontaneity and rest. Sometimes the best moments are the unplanned ones, like stumbling upon a local ice cream shop or a surprise petting zoo.

2. Pack Smart, Pack Light

Overpacking is a rookie mistake. Each child should have a small backpack with essentials: snacks, a favorite toy, and a change of clothes. Trust me, lugging around heavy bags will wear you out faster than a June bug in July.

3. Snacks Are Your Best Friend

Hungry kids are cranky kids. Pack a variety of snacks to keep them satisfied. Opt for non-messy options like granola bars, fruit snacks, or those fancy organic puffs if you’re feelin’ bougie.

4. Entertainment on the Go

Keep those little minds occupied. Tablets loaded with educational games, coloring books, or even a good old-fashioned game of “I Spy” can work wonders. And don’t forget headphones—to preserve your sanity and the sanity of those around you.

5. Embrace the Buddy System

If you’ve got more than one young’un, pair them up. They can look out for each other, and it teaches responsibility. Plus, it gives you a moment to breathe and sip that much-needed coffee.

6. Stay Calm and Carry On

Travel mishaps will happen. Missed flights, lost luggage, or the inevitable “I need to potty” at the worst possible time. Keep your cool, and remember, your kids will take cues from you. A positive attitude can turn a setback into an adventure.

7. Safety First, Y’all

Ensure all vaccinations are up-to-date, and pack a basic first-aid kit. Teach your kids what to do if they get separated and make sure they know your contact information. Better safe than sorry, as my mama always says.

8. Capture the Moments

Encourage your kids to keep a travel journal or take photos. It’s a great way for them to engage with the experience and creates keepsakes to look back on. Plus, it might keep them occupied for a hot minute.

Remember, darlin’, the goal is to enjoy the journey, not just the destination. With a little preparation and a lot of patience, you’ll create memories that’ll last a lifetime. Safe travels, and may your adventures be as delightful as a front porch swing on a breezy afternoon.

Bon voyage, y’all!

Jani, your go-to-gal at Take Time To Travel

The Take Time To Travel Team – Cindy, Jani, Tammy, Trisha, Krystal

Life is one big journey—and I’m sharing mine, one mile and one moment at a time. Subscribe to follow along.

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What I Wish I Had Packed On My Last Cruise!

February 5, 2025

Cruises

By Jani Aylsworth-Gunter, Take Time To Travel

What I Wish I Had Packed on My Last Cruise (So You Don’t Make the Same Mistakes!)

Y’all, let me tell you—no matter how many cruises I take, I always manage to forget something. You’d think as a travel advisor, I’d have this down to a science (and for the most part, I do!), but my last cruise had me kicking myself for a few things I left behind. Consider this your friendly reminder from someone who’s been there, done that, and had to pay double for it at the onboard shop.

1. A Good Quality Power Strip (Cruise-Approved, Of Course!)

Ships are notorious for having, oh, maybe two outlets in your cabin—one of which is probably behind the bed or in some inconvenient spot. I don’t know about you, but between my phone, smartwatch, curling iron, and hubby’s gadgets, we need OPTIONS. A non-surge-protected power strip or a multi-port USB charger would have saved me from the nightly battle of “Whose device is more important?”

2. A Foldable Hanging Organizer

I thought I was being all minimalistic by not bringing my usual over-the-door organizer, and I deeply regretted it. Cruise cabins are small, y’all. There is no counter space, and before you know it, your toiletries, sunscreen, and random odds and ends are scattered everywhere like confetti at a Mardi Gras parade. A hanging organizer keeps things tidy and keeps me from losing my favorite lip gloss.

3. Magnetic Hooks

Did you know cruise cabin walls are metal? I do—yet I somehow forgot my trusty magnetic hooks, which are lifesavers for hanging hats, lanyards, bags, and wet swimsuits. Instead, I had to drape things over every available surface like I was running a floating laundromat. Never again.

4. A Lightweight Beach Bag

Look, I thought my cute little crossbody would be enough for excursions. Wrong. When you’re hauling sunscreen, towels, water bottles, sunglasses, and whatever random souvenirs you pick up, you need something practical. A packable tote would have saved me from looking like a tourist trying to juggle half the gift shop in my arms.

5. Better Walking Shoes

I always preach “comfort over cute” when it comes to excursions, but did I listen to my own advice? Nope. After traipsing around port in sandals that were more “fashion” than “function,” my feet were not amused. Pack the sneakers. Your feet will thank you.

6. A Reusable Water Bottle

Cruise ships have water stations, but I ended up buying overpriced bottled water at every port just to stay hydrated. A refillable, insulated bottle would have been a game-changer—and it’s way better for the environment than constantly tossing plastic bottles.

7. A Small First-Aid Kit

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve told clients to pack one, yet I didn’t have my own when I got a blister (see above: bad shoe choices) and needed some Advil. The ship has a medical center, but it’s way easier (and cheaper!) to have your own stash of Band-Aids, motion sickness meds, and pain relievers.

8. More Sunscreen

I brought one bottle. It lasted about three days. Ship prices for sunscreen are criminal, and I refuse to pay $25 for something I could’ve thrown in my suitcase at home for a fraction of the price. Learn from my mistake—pack extra!

9. A Good Book (or Two!)

I assumed I’d be too busy for much reading, but between poolside lounging and lazy sea days, I had way more downtime than I expected. Next time, I’m bringing a juicy novel to sip my piña colada with.

10. A Portable Fan

I love a balcony cabin, but sometimes the air circulation isn’t the best. A small, rechargeable fan would’ve been the MVP for keeping the room cool and drowning out hallway noise at night. Live and learn!

Final Thoughts

Packing for a cruise is part science, part strategy, and a little bit of luck. While I managed just fine, I could’ve been a lot more comfortable (and saved some cash!) if I’d thought ahead. So, take this list, pack smart, and enjoy your cruise like the seasoned traveler you are—without making the same mistakes I did!

Bon voyage, y’all!

Jani, your go-to-gal at Take Time To Travel

Life is one big journey—and I’m sharing mine, one mile and one moment at a time. Subscribe to follow along.

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