PHOTO: Ambroise Tézenas

The other day, while doing some spring cleaning, I found a hodgepodge of suntan lotion in our junk closet: half-filled bottles, still greasy from last summer's vacation in Bodrum, Turkey. They were like well-worn postcards from our relaxed and happy days by the shore: Wish you were here!

With my son nearing the end of third grade and the spring clouds finally parting in New York City, I'm beginning to think about what to do as a family during these upcoming bright, carefree months, when many of us will be hitting the road in record numbers. Like you, I've got some ambitious travel plans, for sure: a beach vacation in Los Cabos over Memorial Day weekend, an adventure-filled cruise to Alaska, a concert with friends in Las Vegas at the mind-bending Sphere (here's how you can get a great view from the outside, too).

Big picture, I want to embrace a few "best practices" from last year's trip, no matter where we may go. Things like long family dinners outdoors, giving all sorts of new foods a go; reading books without interruption; even playing a new sport. We learned last year that beach volleyball is not our strong suit, but we're still game for another adventure in 2024. (Pickleball, anyone?)

This June issue is packed with ideas on how you can best enjoy your time, too. Read on for some great getaways—including a few special places on my radar in Europe. I'm convinced that everyone feels a little badder and bolder when they are happy in the sun.