With Christmas behind us, I’m ready to start looking forward to the new year while reflecting on the past fun-filled three months. I hope you all are enjoying the holiday season and are able to enjoy time off with friends and family near and far.

Where I’ve Been:

UAE: Abu Dhabi & Dubai:

I recently returned from my first trip to the Middle East, visiting Abu Dhabi and Dubai. A a tourist, I appreciated how clean and safe it was, especially traveling alone in Dubai. As a vegetarian, I loved the Middle Eastern food! In Abu Dhabi, I found the cultural attractions stunning and fascinating and was able to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Qasr Al Watan Presidential Palace, Louvre Dubai and Qasr Al Hohn. For family-friendly entertainment, Yas Island is the place to go, with a Ferrari World and Warner Brothers World theme parks, Formula 1 Grand Prix, go-karting, and indoor climbing gym and more.

Dubai is the scene to be seen. You’ll find designer shopping, high-end cars, Michelin restaurants and five-star hotels. I stayed at the newly opened ultra-luxury Atlantis The Royal with the world’s only Nobu restaurant offering pool and beach service, four Michelin restaurants, an incredible fire and fountain show, unbelievable architecture, and access to the aquarium and water park at the adjacent Atlantis The Palms. While in Dubai, I was able to visit Burj Khalifa Tower, go indoor skiing at Ski Dubai, see the Dubai Mall Fountains show, and go on a Platinum Heritage Camel Desert Safari. There is so much to see, do and learn in the United Arab Emirates. Just be sure to visit during the winter months!

Serenbe, Georgia:

As a travel writer that cover wellness travel, I was thrilled to visit Serenbe – an entire community focused on health and sustainability. Located about 30 miles outside of Atlanta, the property encompasses The Inn at Serenbe a historic bed-and-breakfast with farm-to-table restaurant, organic garden, walking trails, animal village, outdoor pool and more. The community itself focuses on a biophilic way of life – connecting residents with nature. There are currently four distinct neighborhood to choose from, with plans to expand. Each one features shops, restaurants, parks, walking trails, and plenty of green space. The area was developed with wellness in mind and focuses on fresh air, food and trees. The peaceful setting encourages neighbors to get to know each other through art classes, a community garden, a local book store, farmer’s market, and swim club. There is horseback riding available, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a spa, a pilates studio, farm tours, a bike shop, and fresh-pressed juice. If you’re looking to unwind, do some self reflection, detox from your screens and enjoy nature, Serenbe is the place to be.

Hotel Review: Thompson Hotel, Palm Springs

On a recent press trip to Palm Springs, I was able to stay at the newly opened Thompson Palm Springs, a stylish newcomer conveniently located in the heart of the city, on Palm Canyon Drive – just steps away from boutique shops, restaurants, and nightlife.

The hotel blends modern design with desert elegance. I was very impressed with the creative and stunning artwork displayed throughout the hotel. Its 168 guest rooms, featuring private balconies or patios, offer beautiful views of the mountains and desert. Interiors pay homage to mid-century aesthetics, with light woods, geometric patterns, and leather details creating a serene vibe.

A standout feature is the rooftop pool, providing a relaxing oasis with sweeping views and poolside service offering cocktails and light bites. Dining at the on-site restaurant, Lola Rose Grand Mezze, elevates the experience with a Mediterranean-inspired menu emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Call for Content:

U.S. News & World Report: Assignments

Please send each pitch in a separate email with the below headlines in the subject.

• Packing List for Hawaii: Deadline: Dec. 29

• Top Things to Do in Arizona: Deadline: Jan. 5

• World’s Best Tourist Attractions: Deadline: Jan. 10

• Top Aquariums in the U.S.: Deadline: Jan. 19

• Packing List for a Weekend Getaway: Deadline: Jan. 15

Matador Network:

• Astronomy pitches: Deadline: Jan. 10

• Pitches around solo travel: Deadline: Jan. 10

Here’s a list of all outlets that I’m currently working with. I will send an additional call for pitches for other outlets soon.

Recently Published Articles:

U.S. News & World Report:

• Hallmark Christmas Movie Towns You Can Visit in Real Life

• Best Resorts for Cross-Country in the U.S.

• Darkest Skies in the U.S. for Stargazing

• Best Girls Trip Ideas for 2025

• Best Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts in Punta Cana

• Most Romantic Getaways in Ohio

USA Today 10Best:

• 5 NYC hotels with the best views of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

• A Southwest road trip with your best friend: 5 dog-friendly stops, stays, and more

Westways magazine:

Out & About: Key Change; Winter 2024 issue

Laguna Beach magazine:

Waves of Change: December 2024/January 2025 issue

Books:

I was a contributing author to Lonely Planet’s new “Epic Runs of North America,” in which I write about participating in an Xterra race at Crystal Cove State Park in Newport Beach. It’s a beautiful area with challenging trails.

I’m in the News:

I am so honored that the following outlets wanted to profile me.

• Pitchcraft Profile

• The Business Story Of The Week podcast

• CanvasRebel magazine profile

• TravMedia: Journalist of the Week

Panelist:

I loved being be a panelist for the American Traveler Trends Forum, hosted by the Travel & Adventure Show, to discuss upcoming trends for 2025. If you missed it, you can download it here.

Social Media:

You can now find me on Bluesky: @sharael.bsky.social