The timing seemed perfect to act on a lifelong dream: visiting Paris. Paris Photo was opening, November seventh marked my birthday, and several photographer friends would be in that part of the world working on projects—both still photography and film. During the Obama years, friends-of-friends facilitated an invitation to stay at the U.S. Ambassador's Residence, which sealed the deal. The residence has historically showcased American and French art and history, with cultural aspects highlighted through restorations, exhibits, and events. Though I spent time wandering dimly lit, romantic streets along the water, sampling French cuisine, learning the Paris Métro system, and purchasing a few pieces of jewelry to memorialize the trip, my main focus was experiencing historic buildings, museums and art. A few highlights here.

Nestled between the shores of Lake Constance and the foothills of the Alps, Bregenz is Austria's hidden cultural treasure. This charming city combines breathtaking natural beauty with world-class artistic offerings, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking magical ‘nooks around the world. There are many ways to take in the art and culture of Bregenz. I can vouch that Bregenz is a personal favorite destination, so I encourage one to do it all and see it all, or at least try.

Mexico City — the Paris of Latin America — pulses with an artistic energy that spans millennia, from ancient Aztec temples to cutting-edge contemporary galleries. The sprawling metropolis stands as one of the world's great cultural capitals, where pre-Columbian artifacts share space with colonial masterpieces and revolutionary murals. For travelers seeking to immerse themselves in Mexico's rich cultural tapestry, the city offers an overwhelming abundance of museums, cathedrals, and artistic treasures that tell the story of a nation's complex and fascinating history.