Holly NeSmith Travel

06/17/2024

In need of a last-minute summer getaway? I’ve got you covered! Vail is an absolute must this summer. 🙌🏼

The is the perfect location for this getaway. It is a stunning property with wonderful service only a short walk from Vail Village. Not to mention the freshly renovated spa, but they are also offering enhanced amenities that are sure to impress! You can’t beat the cool mountain air, stunning landscape, and adventure-filled fun that Vail offers.

Need I say more? Let’s get you booked! ✈️
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📧: [email protected]

06/08/2024

Last Day.

Not going to lie, I was not excited about this destination for family vacation. I’m not a big outdoorsman and I am not particularly fit to schlep babies up mountains. However, this might be one of my favorite family vacation spots yet.

We spent the morning back at Trillium Lake to take in the views and let the kids wade in the lake. It was gorgeous and I wish we had the foresight to bring swimsuits because Blair was having the time of her life with a stick and the water. The kids imaginations have run wild on this trip taking in the scenery and lots of screenless time with cousins.

We changed clothes and headed back in the direction of Hood River for the afternoon. We stopped at Grateful Vineyard having read it was family friendly with a playset for the kids. It was really good Rosè but it was oversold on the playset situation. There was a playset, it just was located on the opposite of the tasting room from the patio and their liquor license didn’t reach to it so you couldn’t take a glass with you to see the kids. So we had to tag team it.

The last bit of our day was spent exploring the shops in Hood River and icecream + brewery in Parkdale on the way back to the house.

We are having a clean out dinner and packing tonight to make our way back South tomorrow.

06/07/2024

Day Six.

Another beautiful day in Government Camp. We started the day with a hike along the Old Salmon River Trail. There were a few muddy spots post rain and a harrowing water crossing, but otherwise a flat and enchanting family hike. It felt like we might see fairies or bridge trolls somewhere along the way. I continue to be blown away by my oldest child’s determination, strength and bravery as she hiked yet another 3+ miles on her own with minimal complaint.

After the hike we ate our picnic lunches and made our way to the Little ZigZag Trail where we walked a short way to find a gorgeous waterfall and a nice spot for the littles to dip their toes in. One of the 5 yos got a little more than he bargained for when he took an unexpected polar plunge but he shook it off and set an example for the others to not follow suit. 😂

To round out the day, we grabbed a few snacks and beverages at Mt. Hood Brewery, swam in the hot tub, did a Sports theme night and ate homemade pizza with the leftovers from the fridge.

Tomorrow is the last day and there is still so much we wish we could see and do. This has been a perfect family friendly spot and I cannot wait to share it will my clients!!

06/06/2024

Day Five.

The sun has arrived! We drove over to Timberline Lodge to see the historic hotel and the epic views to kickstart the day. They are currently doing a restoration on some of the building and I didn’t get to tour the rooms, but for those people wanting a late season ski, this one is for you. They have ski available through August!

We then spent the balance of the day exploring Hood River. There is a great waterfront park for the kids with several good restaurants, shops and breweries right there. We got a pizza to go and sat in the park while the kids ran around.

From there we headed back toward Government Camp and stopped at Draper Girls Country Farm along the way. They have a cidery, goats that you can feed, and u-pick when fruit is in season. We got a few pears, apples and cider to taste, along with a bag of goat feed to entertain the kids. Many of the kid friendly wineries are not available during the week, so I’m planning to head back tomorrow or Friday to check out a couple of those!

Once we got back it was time to get into the spirit with our first theme night: Rednecks and Longnecks. I think our family did pretty darn well if I do say so myself.

Only two more days of vacation before we make the trek back home.

06/06/2024

Days Three and Four.

With rain on the forecast for Monday and Tuesday, we had to come up with creative plans.

Monday, my in-laws made biscuits from scratch, and fueled us up for the day. My family of five headed into Tigard to an indoor play place, LEKA Playland, designed in a Montessori/Waldorf style that caters to children ages 0-5, which was perfect for our crew. We intended to go bowling after lunch as well, but the travel and time change had our girls ready for a rest. So we packed it up and went back to the house with promises of hot tub time.

Tuesday, we decided to seek sunshine which was practically guaranteed in the Redmond/Bend area where there are more desert like conditions. Just outside of Redmond is Smith Rock State Park with a beautiful river gorge running through it and a variety of trails for all levels of hikers (and well known as a great climbing spot).

Most of our group hit Misery Trail which included a steep incline and descent that I didn’t want to brave with my littles. We opted for the River Trail which was an easy 2.5-3 miles on mostly flat terrain. My four year old walked the entire thing with zero complaints!

Kids were rewarded with ice cream and adults were rewarded with a beer at Wild Ride Brewery in Redmond which was also a great spot for kids with a little turf area on the patio, food trucks and coloring supplies at the ready.

We rounded out the night back at the house where I was on the cooking team. You can imagine that feeding 25 people (2 of our crew don’t do solids yet), is a production. So we split it up each night with three people spearheading the cooking and three others spearheading the cleaning. We had a great taco spread, did our daily hot tub swim, and hit the hay early.

Blue skies expected for the rest of the week!

06/03/2024

Day Two.

We managed to squeeze a quick 2 mile hike in at Trillium Lake Loop this morning before the rain started. It was a short 4 minute drive from our house and listed online as stroller friendly with scenic views. It was beautiful, and mostly stroller friendly…though a few downed trees and lingering mud made it less so.

It was a very flat, kid friendly walk regardless.

We ran into Government Camp village after to get a quick peak at what was going on before heading home to feed the kids. The rain started just as we got home so it was perfect weather to facilitate strong naps.

Post nap required a little more effort so I pulled out the dollar tree crafts I packed and got the 2-5 year olds painting and making bracelets which kept them busy for about an hour. Then the hot tub came in clutch to round us out before dinner.

My in laws are quite the chefs so we have a gourmet dinner followed by a dance party and s’mores in the kitchen.

Now time to crash before working through our plans for tomorrow! Hoping for better weather so we don’t have to pull out too many hat tricks! 🙏🏼

05/20/2024

Here’s a sneak peek of where my clients are headed this week! (Hint hint…pasta & tapas are on the itinerary 😉)

📍Puglia
📍Seville
📍Positano
📍Madrid

Spain or Italy? Let’s plan your trip! ☀️✈️
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📧: [email protected]

05/09/2024

I will always sing praises for New Zealand and Australia to my clients. 🙌🏼👏🏼 Whether it’s unwinding in a luxurious spa or soaring above stunning landscapes on a helicopter tour, the opportunities are truly endless. 🤩

Just recently, two wonderful couples returned home after traveling on a three-week trip through New Zealand and Australia. They stayed at some of our top properties – The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, Falcon Brae, Blanket Bay, & Eichardt Private Hotel in New Zealand. Then, they jetted off to Australia to experience the unparalleled hospitality of Park Hyatt Sydney, Longitude 131, Lizard Island, Silky Oaks, and Emporium South Banks!

We love creating custom experiences like these for each and every one of our clients! Let’s start planning your next experience! ✈️✨
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📧: [email protected]

04/15/2024

Had the best time celebrating in Costa Rica with friends and family last weekend! ❤️ Traveling with kiddos can be intimidating especially when flights are involved. Luckily enough, Costa Rica is a direct flight from Atlanta AND the flight is under 4 hours. Easy peasy, right? Depending on where you stay, most accommodations are less than an hour away from the airport. Once we landed, our drive from the airport to our villa was ONLY 25 minutes long. Again, easy peasy. 🙌🏼🙌🏼

I took a pause from the vacay to check out which was not only a stunning property, but the perfect spot for families of all ages. The Kid’s Club was SO perfectly family oriented (Drew approves!) & there are many exciting & adventurous options for the families with older children. Costa Rica may just be my new favorite family vacay spot! I mean the sunsets, sweet treats (the girls loved this…obviously) & great wildlife sightings make this the ideal getaway for families! ☀️😎

Hot Tip: RENT A CAR! It was such an easy process and gave us more independence. I will say it was pricey due to mandatory insurance but for us it is SO worth it. 🚗
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📧: [email protected]

04/01/2024

Say hello to your new happy place - Warren Street Hotel! ✨😍

Located in the vibrant Tribeca neighborhood, Firmdale Hotels’ newest addition to their collection is sooo dreamy. Thanks to Kit Kemp’s vibrant touch, Warren Street Hotel couldn’t be more perfect. Each room is a work of art filled with color, pattern, and texture that will bring a smile to your face. The thoughtful design and impeccable details make this an ideal escape for families, couples, friends, and everyone in between! 🤩

I am definitely adding the colorful and trendy Warren Street Hotel to my must-stay list, and you should, too!  🌈  
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📧: [email protected]

03/22/2024

Spring Break, here we come! ☀️

Guess what? Spring Break is officially here, and we are so excited! Check out where my clients are headed for the week! →

We curate dream destinations tailored to YOUR every desire. Whether you crave tropical tranquility or the buzz of city life, we’ve got you covered!

See something that catches your eye? Let’s plan your next escape! ✈️✨
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📧: [email protected]

03/20/2024

Still looking for the perfect destination for your family’s summer vacation? has you covered! 🙌🏼

From mountain adventures to tropical paradises, the Auberge Resorts Collection offers something for every family’s perfect summer getaway. Their resorts are located in breathtaking destinations, stunning properties, and the best part? Kids receive complimentary dining alllll summer long! Auberge Resorts Collection gets a YES from me!! 🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼

Some of my family-friendly favorites:
- Mauna Lani () – Enjoy beachy fun & join the Holoholo Kids Crew!
- The Lodge at Blue Sky () - Perfect for the adventurous family…Be sure to check out the Little Vaquero’s Club!
- Esperanza () – Experience family fun with activities like the cooking class!
- Bishop’s Lodge () – Explore Santa Fe’s history and culture together with fun family activities!
- The Dunlin () – Opening July 2024, just in time to escape to the Charleston countryside as a family!

Auberge Resort Collection is all about this summer! Let’s find the perfect spot for your vacation! ☀️
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📧: [email protected]

03/11/2024

Dreaming of oceanfront bliss? 🌊

The Bela Vista Hotel & Spa () in Portimao, Portugal offers pure indulgence — think private balconies overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean, a luxurious spa, and an atmosphere that screams relaxation. This adult-only oasis is the perfect escape for a romantic getaway or solo recharge. ✨

Elevate your stay with our exclusive perks:
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
- $100 credit to be used during stay
- Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi

Ready to plan your summer vacay? ☀️ Let’s chat!
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📧: [email protected]

11/23/2023

Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃🍽 🍁

We are so grateful for YOU! Thank you for allowing our small business to be a part of your big travels. We know that your time away is a scarce commodity and the memories gained are of great value…we do not take our role in that lightly.

We hope your day is full of family, food, love and travel.

We’ll be ready to make those travel dreams a reality on Monday. Reach out when you’re ready!🥂

09/21/2023

We are so excited to announce the arrival of Robert “Nauls” NeSmith! Born September 20 at 10:41am, weighing 7lb 8oz and 20in long.

Please be patient with our response time as we welcome Nauls into the fold!

08/03/2023

Active travelers? Honeymooners? Multigenerational Family travel? Hotel snobs? Nature enthusiasts? Adventure seekers? Foodies? Babymooners?

Hawaii gets a resound yes from us.

From pristine beaches, deep local culture rooted in hospitality, wildlife of every variety, endless water sports, active volcanoes, mountain views with scenic vistas to world class cuisine… Hawai’i has it all!

It’s our job to help pair you with the right islands for the experience you are looking to get out of your travels; but if any of the above sounds like your cup of tea, then Hawai’i might be your next bucket list trip to mark off.

Ready to start planning? 📧: [email protected]

08/01/2023

Happy August! You may have noticed our new look but have you checked out our new website? Visit today to learn more about our Preferred Partners, get an inside look at our travel planning process, and gain inspiration and travel tips from our travel blog.

Or if you’re ready to get started on your travel plans, you can send me the initial details and even grab a spot on my calendar to get the ball rolling - all through my website!

>>Keep in mind, I will have a limited schedule in the Fall as we welcome baby number three in October. So how’s the time to start working on those New Year and Spring Break travel dreams!

06/15/2023

✨Happy Birthday, Stefanie!✨

What better day to officially introduce our very own Travel Coordinator extraordinaire, Stefanie Starnes. Most of you have already been introduced by phone or email, but in case you haven’t, say hello to the woman who keeps us all on track…and while you’re at it, wish her a Happy Birthday!

Stefanie is Holly’s right hand in all the details, keeping your trips organized and sprinkling in that fairy dust!

We hope that all of her birthday wishes and travel dreams come true this year!

05/19/2023

Be honest, if I showed you the first four images and asked you where you thought this resort was located in the world, would your first guess by on the water?

Nope? Me neither!

It’s rare I get jazzed for a new ship, but the way that Explora Journeys is setting themselves apart is truly sparking my interest.

The curation and attention to detail is unparalleled in the cruising space.

So, if you’re like me and don’t consider yourself a cruiser, but you do consider yourself a bit of a hotel/resort snob with a genuine desire to experience the world…this might just be the next adventure to add to your bucket list.

Hot Tip: there is still a little space on their inaugural sailing in July.

So if you can’t seem to find the space in Europe but you’re still itching to get out there… let’s chat!

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📧: [email protected]

05/01/2023

As history unfolds this week in England, The Cadogan, a Belmond Hotel, invites you to explore London like a socialite.

The Cadogan is a perfect retreat with coveted access to a private garden and history that oozes from the walls. The likes of Oscar Wilde and Lillie Langtry found their respite here, and you can too…with the added perks our team offers including:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom
• £ 100 F&B credit to be used during stay
• Early check-in/Late check-out, subject to availability
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

To book, reach out at [email protected]

01/24/2023

✨Hotel Esencia✨

The attention to detail in both decor and service alongside their exceptional cuisine makes this little gem on the Mexican Riviera Maya the perfect getaway. Oh and did I mention it’s just a quick 3 hour flight from Atlanta?

If you want to get a sense of their style, come join us at The Travel Studio this Thursday, January 26th at 5:30pm as Hotel Esencia brings their flavor to Birmingham.

Local favorite will be providing light bites and beverages!

💌 Please RSVP at the link in my story!

01/01/2023

✨What an incredible year it has been!✨ The launch of Holly NeSmith Travel has gone exceedingly better than I had ever dreamed - all thanks to my dedicated partners, enthusiastic clients and super patient teammates. Thrilled to see where this small business takes us all next year! Where to next?? ✈️

10/17/2022

Grenada! From waterfalls, beaches and snorkeling to chocolate, rum and exceptional cuisine, there is something for everyone. The beauty, adventure and hospitality would wow even the most discerning traveler. It is well worth the effort to get here!

Feel free to reach out with your specific questions or requests!

03/17/2022

Lisbon is one of my favorite cities in Europe. It feels a bit like the San Francisco of Portugal with its maritime influence, access to wine regions, easy day trips for sightseeing, fabulous food scene and hillside architecture + the added bonus of charming seaside towns and relaxing beaches. No surprise that I’m working on multiple trips to Lisbon right now.

If it’s not on your bucket list, I think you might want to add it!

02/04/2022

Staying domestic? Napa is always a good idea. Best part is you don’t even have to like wine to fall in love with it. Many people don’t realize that there is so much more to the area than just the vineyards. Do you love hiking, fishing, biking, micro breweries, incredible food or spa treatments? Napa is for you!

I have really great partners to help design the perfect itinerary for you no matter your interest!

But you better plan in advance…preferred space is limited so give me a call to get your trip started!

01/26/2022

How about on Wednesdays we play a little game where I post a picture and you tell me where in the world I took? We can call it “Where in the World Wednesday”… who doesn’t like an alliteration afterall?

Starting here!

Where in the world was this picture taken?

01/20/2022

Is Throwback Thursday still a thing? If not, I’m bringing it back…

Specifically to this moment on my balcony in Santorini overlooking the Caldera while eating breakfast in peace - no tiny hands grabbing my fruit or little voices asking for a sip of my orange juice. Just me, my breakfast and a beautiful view.

If you’re feeling touched out like so many of us are after all this time at home with kids… consider taking a much needed getaway… Santorini might just be calling your name (in a good way!)

01/02/2022

01/02/2022

01/02/2022