Luxury travel is evolving — fast. In 2026, it’s no longer about the fanciest hotels or the most exclusive flight class. Instead, it’s about something deeper: personalization, meaning, and intentionality. Travelers aren’t just booking trips — they’re designing experiences that align with their values, lifestyles, and emotional desires. As a luxury travel designer, I’ve watched […]

Hi there! I’m Nichole, and I’m so glad you’re here. At Designed Vacations, I believe travel should be deeply personal, beautifully executed, and utterly unforgettable. Luxury travel isn’t just about where you go — it’s about how you feel while you’re there. It’s about the way your breath catches at a view you’ve only dreamed […]

Between my Type A personality and my love for being fully prepared, I started building what I call a “traveling pharmacy” about five years ago — and I’ve never looked back. Whether I’m heading to a local beach day or boarding a flight to the Riviera Maya, my travel medicine bag is one of the […]

When families ask me for a vacation that combines relaxation, excitement, and truly effortless planning — one name often comes to mind: Royal Caribbean. With something for every age and interest, their ships are essentially floating resorts that make it easy to keep everyone happy. Whether you’re sailing with toddlers, teens, grandparents, or all of […]

If you’re anything like me, sleeping well while traveling can be a challenge. There’s just something about your own bed — your linens, your lighting, your routine — that makes it hard to replicate elsewhere. But here’s the thing: vacation should feel restful. Whether you’re traveling for leisure or adventure, a good night’s sleep can […]

Let’s be honest — there’s nothing worse than arriving at the airport, bags packed and vacation dreams in full swing, only to be told you can’t board because of an ID issue. Whether you’re flying internationally or hopping across states, your travel identification needs to be in order well before your departure date. Here’s what […]