Welcome to Emily’s Seen that
Hey there fellow traveler, I’m Emily. I’m just a thirty-something woman who realized I needed to see the world before it’s too late. After my mother passed from early-onset familial Alzheimer’s, I learned that I, too, carry the gene. Travel has always been a passion of mine. So I decided to start sharing what I’ve learned and document it in a meaningful way. I strive to remind myself and others to live life fully and intentionally—without waiting for permission from yourself or others. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I’ve loved creating it.
– Emily.
itineraries made for you in mind
Each one of these itineraries is more than a checklist. I’ve thoughtfully designed each itinerary based off my own experiences. They can be followed exactly, tweak to your style or even skimmed. Consider them a good starting point for your own adventure.
colombia in 3 weeks: culture, coffee and the coast
LETS GO →
the ultimate California road trip
LETS GO →
MY TOP destinations for 2026
2026 is the year to travel with intention. This list isn’t about the usual must-sees or timeless classics—it’s about where the energy is right now. The places that are buzzing, the moments that only happen once, and the events that give a destination its pulse. From cultural flashpoints and once-in-a-generation celebrations to cities on the brink of becoming the place to be, this is a guide to traveling when it matters most. If you want stories instead of souvenirs, timing instead of trends, and trips that feel alive rather than obligatory—these are the places and experiences you don’t want to miss in 2026.
📍 Georgia
Why it made the list: Georgia feels like a secret you’re shocked more people haven’t discovered yet. Ancient wine traditions, unmatched hospitality, dramatic landscapes, and a capital city buzzing with creativity make it one of the most exciting places to travel right now. It’s rich, generous, and unapologetically itself.
Best for: Mountains • Wine • History
Best time to visit:
📍 Mexico City, Mexico
Why it made the list: Mexico City is currently at its peak—creatively, culturally, and culinarily. It’s flooded with art, street food and colorful, architecturally interesting neighborhoods that feel like unique little cities within a city. Mexico City is the epitome of Mexican culture, you’re faced with it as soon as you get off the plane, it’s basically handed to you in your first glass of mezcal.
Best for: Food • Culture • Design
Best time to visit:
📍 The Coast of Portugal
Why it made the list: The coast of Portugal is where time slows down in the best possible way. Rugged cliffs, small fishing towns, long lunches, and a deep connection to the sea define this stretch of the country. It’s less about rushing between sights and more about settling into a rhythm—morning swims, coastal hikes, and evenings that stretch late with wine and salt in the air.
Best for: Beaches • Relaxation • Seafood
Best time to visit:
📍 Finland
Why it made the list: Finland is about contrast and clarity. Extreme seasons, intentional design, deep quiet, and a culture that values balance over excess. Whether you’re immersed in sauna culture or surrounded by snow and silence, Finland offers a kind of reset that feels rare in modern travel.
Best for: Nature • Relaxation • Mental Reset
Best time to visit:
📍 Cartagena, Colombia
Why it made the list: Cartagena is vibrant, humid, loud, and completely intoxicating. The city pulses with music, color, and history, blending Caribbean energy with deeply layered colonial roots. It’s the kind of place where nights stretch long, conversations happen in the street, and everything feels heightened.
Best for: Tropical Vibes • Color • Caribbean Coast
Best time to visit:
📍 Japan
Why it made the list: Japan is a country that hits every travel note perfectly. From the buzzing streets and neon lights of Tokyo, to Kyoto’s temples and centuries-old traditions, to Hokkaido’s wild landscapes and seasonal magic, Japan offers a seamless mix of city energy, cultural depth, and natural wonder. It’s a destination that rewards timing, curiosity, and a willingness to experience it all.
Best for: Food • Design • Nature • Seasonal Experiences
Best time to visit:
looking for a long weekend getaway?
Not a lot of time off? I gotchu.
These guides are built for long weekends—focused on the must-see’s and paced realistically. Feel free to use them as-is or just to grab a few ideas for your getaway.
how to spend 3 amazing days in singapore
LETS GO →
your 4-day San Diego weekend getaway
LETS GO →
