The Gilded Horizon

a travel blog

​Discover The Gilded Horizon, Sunkissed Bliss Travel's blog offering expert travel tips, industry insights, and captivating stories from around the globe. Whether you're seeking trending destinations for 2025, family-friendly adventures, or luxury group travel ideas, our articles provide inspiration and guidance to elevate your journeys. Join us as we explore the world, sharing experiences and advice to make your travels unforgettable.

Discover the Magic of Family Travel in Portugal
Meredith Schnepp Meredith Schnepp

Discover the Magic of Family Travel in Portugal

Experience the magic of Porto through the eyes of young travelers. This breathtaking view of the Duoro River from a charming Porto balcony captures the essence of family adventure—where vibrant city life meets serene river views. Perfect for families seeking unforgettable moments in Portugal, Porto offers both relaxation and exploration in every corner.

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5 Summer 2025 Destinations to Explore in 10 Days or Less
Meredith Schnepp Meredith Schnepp

5 Summer 2025 Destinations to Explore in 10 Days or Less

If you’re already overwhelmed by the idea of summer planning, relax—I’ve got you covered with five destinations that are perfect for a 10-day (or less!) escape with children or without them. The best part? You won’t need a car to explore them. Whether you prefer land, river, or sea, these spots are easy to navigate, family-friendly, and packed with adventure.

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From Oaxaca to Mexico City: A Women’s Trip for the Memory Books
Meredith Schnepp Meredith Schnepp

From Oaxaca to Mexico City: A Women’s Trip for the Memory Books

I share all this to say that I am an experienced group traveler and a recovering summer camp kid. There’s nothing like forced proximity, new experiences, and exploring a destination that nurtures new friendships, increases empathy, and fosters an environment that is ripe for meaningful connections.

That’s why I’m incredibly excited about Come TogetHER IL’s spring trip to Central Mexico and grateful that they asked me to plan it for them. It doesn’t hurt that Central Mexico is a vibrant place, bursting with flavor, history, personality, art, and natural beauty.

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Adventure Travel for Families
Meredith Schnepp Meredith Schnepp

Adventure Travel for Families

As a parent of two elementary school aged children, I like to take active vacations to keep them busy, but not so adventurous that I’m risking their safety or surpassing their capabilities.

Here are soft adventure travel experiences that are exciting yet suitable for younger ages:

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The Inimitable Charm of Ireland
Meredith Schnepp Meredith Schnepp

The Inimitable Charm of Ireland

There’s a special place in my heart for Ireland. Ever since I was a child, I wanted to visit and see if what everyone says is really true. Are the hills that green? Are the cliffs that steep? Are the towns charming and the people that friendly? Does Guinness taste better over there? (Spoiler alert: yes, it does.) I didn’t have my feet on Irish soil for very long when I knew that everything I’d heard about Ireland was not hyperbole. If anything, all the praise you hear for the Emerald Isle doesn’t even scratch the surface. I’m a firm believer that Ireland should be on everyone’s destination punch card.

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