Europe

Gleaming ferraris and Rolls Royces often are parked in the long driveway of the Majestic Barrière, an upscale hotel where I found myself during a recent trip to Cannes on the French Riviera. Inside the stately, Art Deco property—it was built in the 1920s—there are Rolex clocks on the walls, along with black and white photographs of various movie stars. Think Gerard Depardieu, Sharon Stone, Humphrey Bogart.

The dogsledding, skeleton runs, and a 5G-force bobsled ride—just like the one Bill Gates endured on the same course—were among the highlights of my eight days in Lillehammer. Actually, though, I had come to the town that hosted the 1994 Winter Olympics for its renowned cross-country skiing. And, I wasn’t disappointed with the more than 2,000 kilometers (1,240 miles) of groomed trails amid magnificent winterscapes. And while a six-pack of beer costs the equivalent of $75—that’s not a misprint—the endless Nordic skiing is free.

This Iceland trip was honestly my childhood dream. It lived up to all my expectations and I gained a huge appreciation of all the natural wonders of the world. I loved the people, the food, the culture, the language and the music.

Turns out, this part of Switzerland has to be one of the most beautiful spots on Earth.

Be sure to eat at all the cafes you can handle. Remember, slow down while you're there. Sit and enjoy the sounds of the city, the people, and the food.