Notes: The Value of Spontaneous Travel

With a little legwork, last-minute adventures can be joyous and inexpensive

I went to Barcelona last weekend with $116 in my checking account. I knew I’d need five of those dollars to pay for the AirTrain from JFK to the Howard Beach Station, so I had $111 in reality. I do not have a credit card. I am fortunate enough to have nominal back-up resources if something goes wrong, but that wasn’t the point. I was …

Porter & Sail’s Travel Concierge Service in Barcelona

Navigating the Spanish city with expert cultural recommendations

With Casa Bonay (a 19th century mansion turned 67-room boutique hotel) as our home base, we recently spent time in Barcelona exploring the recommendations of digital concierge service Porter & Sail. We first looked into the app’s potential during London’s Frieze Week last year and found their system to be unique and effective. Porter & Sail partners with smart, design-forward hotels—like Casa Bonay (and The …

City Guide: Paris

Must-sees and hidden treasures in one of the world's most charming cities

There’s no doubt Paris—lovingly known as La Ville-Lumière—is one of the most romantic, charming cities in the world. When visiting, there are globally recognized must-see spots for checking off the list; ascending the Eiffel Tower, touring the Louvre and wandering the banks of the Seine. Equally impressive, however, are the countless hidden gems scattered across the varied arrondissements. From the city’s long and fascinating history …