MMarkham Travel

14/07/2025

This week at MMarkham Travel, we’re sharing smart, real-world tips to help you travel like a pro, starting today with one of the biggest travel hurdles: jet lag.

Start adjusting your schedule early. If possible, shift your bedtime and wake-up time by an hour or two in the days leading up to your trip, especially if you're heading east.des staying ahead of jet lag.

Here are a few tried-and-true tips to help you bounce back faster after a long-haul flight:

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Flying is incredibly dehydrating, and even mild dehydration can make jet lag worse. Start before you board, skip the alcohol on the plane, and drink water throughout your flight.

Start adjusting your schedule early. If possible, shift your bedtime and wake-up time by an hour or two in the days leading up to your trip—especially if you're heading east.

Get sunlight right away. As soon as you land, try to get outside - even a short walk helps reset your internal clock and fight fatigue.

Don’t nap too long. A short catnap (under 30 minutes) can take the edge off without messing up your sleep that night. But powering through to your new local bedtime is usually best.

We’ll help you plan your arrival day wisely, whether it’s booking an early hotel check-in, scheduling something light and outdoorsy, or simply making sure there’s time to rest.

11/07/2025

This week we’re comparing two of the most iconic cities in the world—and asking: which one speaks to your kind of adventure?

Today, New York City vs. London!

There’s a reason these two cities are often paired—they’re both global capitals in every sense of the word. Financial powerhouses. Cultural giants. Hubs of fashion, food, music, media, and influence. What happens in New York or London tends to ripple out across the world. These cities shape trends, start conversations, and set the tone for so much of modern life.

But for travelers, the appeal goes way beyond that.

New York City is kinetic. From the moment you land, there’s a pulse to everything—the lights of Times Square, the roar of the subway, the energy of people moving with purpose. It’s a vertical city of ambition, a place that has long drawn dreamers and doers. You’ll find iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building—but also small, unforgettable moments: a bagel from a corner deli, a jazz trio in the park, or a spontaneous fashion shoot in SoHo.

The food scene reflects the entire world. The neighborhoods feel like small countries. And the creative energy is relentless. In NYC, you can try something new every single day and never run out of options.

London, on the other hand, moves at a different rhythm. It’s historic and grounded, but far from stuffy. One minute you’re walking past centuries-old buildings or standing in the shadow of Big Ben, and the next you’re in a sleek modern gallery or sipping cocktails in Shoreditch. London is layered - tradition and trend, side by side.

The green spaces are unmatched for a big city...Hyde Park, Hampstead Heath, Regent’s Park, and the theater scene rivals New York’s Broadway. There’s wit, charm, and a cozy sort of magic to the way the city unfolds.

Our CEO, Merry Jennifer, was just in London last week soaking up the summer buzz - and it reminded us how much we love helping travelers explore both sides of the Atlantic.

So which would you choose?

The electric energy of NYC or the timeless rhythm of London?
The bagel or the scone?
Broadway or the West End?
Either way, we’ll help you make it unforgettable!

10/07/2025

This week we’re comparing destinations that are often linked in travelers’ minds—and exploring why both are worth the trip.

Today, Paris vs. Rome!

These two cities sit high on many travel wish lists—and for good reason. Paris and Rome each offer a mix of culture, cuisine, and history that’s hard to match. But the pull goes deeper than just postcard views.

For many Americans, there’s a personal connection to one (or both) of these cities. Maybe it’s family heritage that draws you to Rome, or the way a favorite novel or film made you fall in love with Paris long before you ever booked a flight. Maybe you studied Latin or French in school, or spent your college years dreaming of café tables or iconic ruins.

Whatever the reason, both cities stir the imagination—and the heart!
Paris feels polished and poetic, with elegant architecture, fashion-forward style, and a certain rhythm that makes even an ordinary afternoon feel cinematic. Rome, on the other hand, is all warmth and energy—ancient stones underfoot, lively conversations spilling out of trattorias, and a sense that history is alive and breathing right alongside you.

Instagram loves them both: think Eiffel Tower sunsets vs. golden-hour glow at the Roman Forum. In Paris, it’s all about wine bars, buttery pastries, and strolls along the Seine. In Rome, it’s fresh pasta, strong espresso, and evenings that stretch late into the night.

So, which will it be for your next adventure—Paris or Rome?

(Or maybe, be like Audrey Hepburn! A Roman Holiday and Springtime in Paris - it’s time to plan for both!)

10/07/2025

All aboard a masterpiece in motion 🚂✨

Step into the golden age of travel with La Dolce Vita Orient Express, where every moment is a scene from a dream. From a jazz-filled lounge in Rome to candlelit nights in Venice and Portofino’s coastal glamour, this is Italy reimagined.

Discover more: https://virtuoso.com/advisor/merrmark63663/travel/luxury-tours/tour-operators/16650958/la-dolce-vita-orient-express-a-virtuoso-preview-partner

09/07/2025

At MMarkham Travel, we love helping travelers narrow down their options—and sometimes the best way to do that is to compare two iconic destinations side by side.

Today in our 'Travel in Pairs' series: Amalfi Coast vs. French Riviera!

Both offer dramatic coastlines, pastel-painted villages, and incredible food—but the overall vibe is completely different.

The Amalfi Coast is steep, scenic, and romantic—think cliffside lemon groves, winding roads, and seafood pasta with a sea view. It’s sun-drenched and humid in summer, with a more rustic and laid-back feel. Expect hearty southern Italian dishes, limoncello at sunset, and family-run trattorias that feel like they’ve been there forever. The towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello are Instagram favorites for good reason—you can’t take a bad photo here, even if you try.

The French Riviera, on the other hand, is polished and cosmopolitan. From the beaches of Nice to the yachts of Monaco, it blends relaxed Mediterranean charm with French style. The climate is warm but a bit drier than Italy’s coast—perfect for afternoons at a beach club or sipping chilled rosé under striped umbrellas. The food leans lighter and more refined: salade niçoise, grilled fish, buttery pastries, and Champagne by the glass. The views? Also outrageously photogenic—think blue water, Art Deco hotels, and golden-hour glamour.

Which one would you choose?

08/07/2025

This week we’re launching a new series called ‘Travel in Pairs’, where we compare two destinations or experiences that share some similarities—but offer very different travel vibes.

Whether you're planning your next escape or just imagining where you'd rather be, it's always interesting to think about what speaks to you most. Big city or small town? Mountains or coast? This or that?

We’re kicking things off with a classic summer toss-up:

Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket?

Both are beloved New England islands just off the coast of Massachusetts. Both are known for their charm, beaches, bike trails, and seafood. But ask anyone who's been to both, and you'll hear strong opinions—they each have their own loyal fans for good reason.

Martha’s Vineyard is larger, more laid-back, and has a broader mix of communities. You’ll find colorful gingerbread cottages in Oak Bluffs, elegant inns and waterfront views in Edgartown, and sweeping beaches that feel far from it all. It’s a little more casual, a little more varied, and great for active travelers who want options—whether that’s hiking, exploring scenic cliffs, or catching a sunset over Menemsha.

Nantucket, on the other hand, feels like stepping into a sepia-toned photo. It’s smaller, more compact, and deeply atmospheric. Everything feels intentional—weathered gray shingles, blooming hydrangeas, narrow lanes, and harborfront boutiques. It’s incredibly walkable, quietly upscale, and has a distinctive sense of place that travelers fall in love with year after year.

Both offer great food, beautiful landscapes, and a strong sense of local character—but the pace, the style, and even the light feel different.

If you had to choose just one for your next coastal getaway…
Which would you pick—Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket? And why? Can you tell which one is my favorite? ;)

We’d love to hear what makes one stand out for you!

08/07/2025

Begin your Sydney stay with thoughtful design and timeless charm at Capella’s reimagined heritage address. Steps from the harbor, this landmark blends contemporary design with thoughtful details, Champagne surprises, and one of the city’s most elegant afternoon teas. 🥂🌿

Discover five reasons you should stay ⬇️

A serene stay in Sydney’s Central Business District makes for the softest landing.

07/07/2025

At MMarkham Travel, we’re following every serve and volley at Wimbledon this week - one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events and an enduring symbol of the British summer.

Tennis has deep roots in England, with origins tracing back to medieval 'real tennis' evolving over centuries into the grass-court game we know and love today. Since 1877, Wimbledon has stood as the oldest tennis tournament in the world and is still considered its crown jewel, blending tradition with world-class competition like nowhere else.

Wimbledon’s traditions are woven into British culture: crisp white tennis attire, polite applause, and a respectful hush before each serve.

There’s a sense of ceremony here, from the green and purple club colors to the almost sacred grass courts maintained with painstaking care.

And of course, no Wimbledon visit is complete without a bowl of strawberries and cream - the ultimate summer treat! (And perhaps a refreshing glass of Pimm’s!)

The Royal Box offers a glimpse of royalty and famous faces enjoying the matches, adding a uniquely British sense of pageantry.

People-watching is a highlight all its own, whether you’re perched on Henman Hill (or Murray Mound, depending on your generation) or exploring the grounds as players warm up and fans gather to share in the excitement. The buzz around Centre Court and Court 1 is electric, with matches that can swing from polite rallies to heart-stopping championship points in seconds.

Our CEO and founder, Merry Jennifer, is lucky enough to be taking in the action from Court 1 today — truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience to witness tennis history unfold live!

If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing Wimbledon for yourself, MMarkham Travel can help bring it to life with all the details that make a trip special. There’s no better time to start planning than now!

Let us help you make your Wimbledon dreams a reality. 🎾

04/07/2025

Today we’re wishing everyone a safe and happy Fourth of July!

Whether you’re heading to a local parade, firing up the grill for a backyard cookout, enjoying time on the water, or gathering to watch the fireworks, we hope your day is filled with good company and great memories.

It’s the perfect time to celebrate the freedom to explore, connect, and experience the world around us — near or far. Wherever your travels take you next, we’re here to help you make those plans happen with less stress and more joy.

From all of us at MMarkham Travel, have a wonderful Independence Day!

03/07/2025

Yesterday, we shared a few tropical destinations where U.S. citizens can travel without a passport — but there’s more to explore. Beyond Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, you might also look closer to home for a dose of island-style living.

The Florida Keys offer a laid-back, tropical vibe with crystal-clear water, world-class snorkeling, and a distinctive “island time” pace of life — all without ever leaving the continental United States. Picture sunset celebrations in Key West, diving the coral reefs off Key Largo, or simply relaxing with conch fritters and a cold drink in hand.

Further out in the Pacific, Hawaii is a classic: dramatic volcanoes, lush rainforests, and unforgettable beaches, with no passport needed since it’s a U.S. state. Whether you’re taking in the scenery along Maui’s Road to Hana, attending a luau on Oʻahu, or snorkeling off the Big Island, you’ll find plenty to inspire you.

For those looking to travel even farther, Guam and American Samoa are U.S. territories with their own unique culture, history, and natural beauty.

Generally you don’t need a passport if you’re a U.S. citizen, but it’s wise to bring one or a certified birth certificate since some airlines might ask for proof of citizenship.

From the Florida Keys to the Pacific, there are plenty of places where you can swap your to-do list for a view of turquoise waters — no passport needed. MMarkham Travel can help you plan every detail of your next easygoing island adventure.

03/07/2025

Soft dunes, salt air, and seaside galleries.

Coastal Maine offers a slower rhythm for families looking to reconnect. Whether you're joining a plein air class in Ogunquit or enjoying lobster dinners by the coast, this stretch of shoreline has a storybook pace all its own. 🐚🎨

Read more below:

📷: Andrew Faulk

From quiet beaches to coastal art, America’s Vacationland moves at its own pace.

02/07/2025

Dreaming of an island escape but don’t have a passport handy?

You’re not out of luck. The U.S. offers some incredible destinations that deliver all the beauty and relaxation of a tropical vacation — no passport required if you’re a U.S. citizen flying directly.

Maybe you'd enjoy a stroll through the colorful colonial streets of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, where centuries-old fortresses stand alongside lively plazas, salsa music drifts through the air, and warm beaches are just a short walk away.

Or picture yourself in the U.S. Virgin Islands — St. John, St. Thomas, and St. Croix — where you can hike through lush national parks, snorkel among coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, and soak up the sunshine on perfect white-sand beaches.

For U.S. citizens, these destinations are considered domestic travel — no passport needed for flights, just a valid state-issued ID like a driver’s license.

If you’re sailing, cruise rules can be more specific, but generally you can visit these U.S. territories without a passport as long as your cruise departs and returns from the same U.S. port.

These spots truly feel worlds away but still offer the comfort of traveling within U.S. territory. You’ll find welcoming locals, fresh seafood, and a pace of life that invites you to slow down and unwind. Whether you’re looking to explore history, relax in a hammock, or head out on a sailing adventure, there’s a spot waiting for you.

If you’re ready to swap your to-do list for a piña colada and leave your passport at home, MMarkham Travel is here to help you plan every detail.