DESTINATION HIGHLIGHT

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DESTINATION HIGHLIGHT *

ChicSteinTravel, in partnership with FORA, presents a seasonal collection of blog posts, offering valuable insights, inspiration, and practical tips to enhance travel experiences. We highlight unique destinations, cultural encounters, and hidden gems while providing guidance on activities, accommodations, and planning. These posts help you make informed choices, discover new adventures, and feel more confident exploring the world.

A scenic view of a lake with mountains in the background, an island, and a modern glass building with people inside, taken from a high elevation.

NEW ZEALAND (Aotea’roa) — “The Land of the Long White Cloud”

I spent three extraordinary weeks in the North and South of this country. New Zealand’s magnificence lies in its breathtaking contrasts—towering snow-capped peaks, emerald valleys, and pristine coastlines that feel untouched by time. Its dramatic landscapes, from fjords to geothermal wonders, create a natural beauty that is as awe-inspiring as it is unforgettable.

Click here to learn more: https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/an-insiders-guide-to-where-to-eat-stay-and-play-in-new-zealand/stephen-chicurel-stein

View of historic red brick warehouses and buildings along a canal, with bridges crossing over the water, at sunset.

EUROPE: THE CONTINENT THAT GIVES and GIVES

I have lived, worked, and loved this continent since 1981; I can never get enough of its diverse cultural heritages. Despite my predilections for some of its greatest capitals (Amsterdam, Paris, Berlin, and Barcelona, to name a few), exploring Europe’s lesser-known destinations reveals charming villages, hidden landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences away from the crowds. These off-the-beaten-path gems offer travelers a deeper connection to local traditions and a more intimate sense of discovery.

Explore these great destinations here: https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/10-underrated-european-cities-you-should-know-about/stephen-chicurel-stein

Northern lights (aurora borealis) over a mountain landscape at night with a star-filled sky.

ALASKA — Where Adventure Meets Untamed Beauty

This had to be a combination of luck, good fortune, and I suppose, some “hard work” — from 1987 to 1993, I was privileged to serve as Music Director and Conductor of the Anchorage Symphony. Living there for months at a time throughout the years was a unique privilege, engaging me in its rugged wilderness, rich Native heritage, and resilient communities thriving amidst breathtaking natural beauty. 

Get my “insider’s guide” to Alaska: https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/insiders-guide-to-alaska/stephen-chicurel-stein