For those of us who spend our days immersed in the world of travel, offering recommendations comes naturally – almost like a reflex. We’ve collectively explored enough of the globe to have a suggestion for nearly any destination you can imagine. But beyond the professional advice, we’re travelers too, with personal adventures planned and eagerly anticipated.
This year, we’re sharing a glimpse into the hotels *we* booked, not just the ones we write about. These aren’t assignments, but escapes fueled by PTO and a passion for experiencing the world. From charming boutique stays to opulent, points-redeemed luxury, here’s where our team is headed.
Lyndsey Matthews is looking forward to a spring getaway at Hotel Ulysses in Baltimore. Having adored its sister property in New Orleans, she’s drawn to the charming, vintage-inspired décor. A clever use of an American Express Platinum Card hotel credit brought the two-night stay within reach, complemented by a property credit for Bloom’s Bar, a jewel-box cocktail lounge.
Across the Atlantic, Ben Smithson is captivated by the newly opened Waldorf Astoria London – Admiralty Arch. This isn’t just another points hotel; it’s a landmark reborn. Situated opposite Buckingham Palace, the Grade 1-listed monument promises breathtaking views and is poised to become the premier Hilton Honors property in London.
For TPG Editor Lauren Wassum, Lake Como was a dream within reach thanks to a strategic booking at the recently opened Lake Como Edition. In a region notoriously difficult for points and miles redemptions, she secured a stay with Marriott Bonvoy points, enjoying stunning views of Bellagio and a beautifully balanced design aesthetic.
Katie Genter eagerly returned to the Hilton Niseko Village in February, drawn by its ski-in, ski-out convenience. Five nights were secured with Hilton points, maximizing a fifth-night-free benefit. Her Ikon Pass covered lift tickets, Diamond elite status provided breakfast, and a Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card resort credit covered nightly dinners.
Clint Henderson, a veteran traveler, is revisiting the iconic Park Hyatt Tokyo in 2026. This wasn’t just a return trip; it was a chance to experience the hotel after a major renovation. He secured a stay for 40,000 World of Hyatt points per night, a savvy move ahead of upcoming award pricing changes.
Tanner Saunders finally experienced the lauded Park Hyatt Sydney, after years of hearing colleague Eric Rosen’s enthusiastic reviews. A stay with his mother during the Sydney Marathon was booked with 115,000 points, timed perfectly before a potential devaluation that could increase award costs for coveted Hyatt properties.
Christine Gallipeau’s travel plans took an unexpected turn when a trip to the Seychelles was disrupted. Undeterred, she redirected her IHG points to a dream stay at Six Senses Con Dao in Vietnam. As a Diamond Ambassador member, she’s eager to explore this highly-regarded brand, taking advantage of a fourth-night-free perk and anticipating incredible food and turtle nesting season.
These aren’t just hotel bookings; they’re stories of anticipation, strategic planning, and the joy of experiencing the world. They represent the culmination of points, credits, and a deep-seated desire to explore, reminding us that the best travel experiences are often the ones we create for ourselves.
