Amy Smilovic, 01/16/13

Fashion designer, Tibi

New York City is an amazing and energetic place to work, but one of my favorite times of year is leaving the hustle of the city behind for a family trip to Sea Island, Georgia.

Daniel Klein, 01/15/13

The Perennial Plate

Her entrepreneurship, delicious food and ethical and inspiring way of life could lead to a new food movement in China.

Dimiter Kenarov, 01/17/13

Freelance journalist and contributing editor at the Virginia Quarterly Review

Laurie Barr is a hunter. Each year, around November, when the trees in Pennsylvania lose their foliage and the shrubs are nothing but bare sticks, offering no hiding place or cover, the hunting season begins. But Laurie Barr doesn't carry a rifle or a crossbow; she doesn't wear camouflage, and no faithful hounds lead the way.

Golriz Moeini, 01/15/13

Stylist. Blogger.

Wildlife, in general, has always bewitched me, but I have always specifically been fascinated with African wildlife. I often wished I could be a Kuki Gallmann and go far away from my reality in exchange for a remarkable life experience.

Carolyn Scott, 01/15/13

Executive producer, creator, host, writer, 'The Healthy Voyager'

Whether your idea of getting some R&R is lying on a tropical beach or hiking Mt. Kilimanjaro, make it a point to make the plan and stick to it. You will be glad you did. Here's to the year of breaking free for some adventure!

Carolyn O'Donnell, 01/16/13

Freelance travel writer who has been translated into Danish. Hot and itchy so you don't have to be at carolyn-odonnell.com

The leopard was waiting for us. As the jeep rumbled closer, the big cat rippled to his feet, loped across the front of the vehicle and ambled into the bushes. The spotted beast didn't return, but none of us on board will ever forget him.

Mark I. Pinsky, 01/10/13

Author, 'A Jew Among the Evangelicals: A Guide for the Perplexed'

Once there were hundreds of vibrant congregations made up of Jewish goldsmiths, copper and leather workers, commercial traders and diplomats. Today, many of the synagogues are empty, accessible only by appointment with a caretaker.

Marybeth Bond, 01/10/13

Travel Author, Gutsy Women

Of all the places and ways I traveled, I never thought safety would be at the top of my "worry" list, but that's firmly where it is today. I plan my accommodations, daytime activities and clothing to avoid being a target.

Party Earth, 01/10/13

PartyEarth.com

Amsterdam may be known for its legal prostitution, cannabis and progressive attitude, but if you're looking to really get inside the 'Dam's social scene, all you have to do is dance.

Christopher Elliott, 01/09/13

Author, Scammed: How to Save Your Money and Find Better Service in a World of Schemes, Swindles and Shady Deals

When we're screened at the airport, we're separate, but we're not equal.

Kari Haugeto, 01/10/13

Multimedia journalist

It isn't always possible or practical, but kids need time with other kids. And that can be something of a challenge when you're on the road as much as we are. Our family travel adventure can keep us away from home more than 30 days at a stretch.

Skift, 01/09/13

Travel intelligence company

Businesses big or small have a responsibility to be good neighbors or, failing that, at least understand the law of the land. And you'd think Airbnb would understand how important it is to be a good neighbor.

Oyster, 01/09/13

Oyster.com visits, photographs, reviews, and rates each hotel, uncovering the truth before it's "uh-oh" time

Many hotels grant guests unique stays, but a select few go a step further by offering over-the-top services. While some are bit excessive -- even for our tastes -- others provide distinct experiences for their individual guests' needs that can make a vacation that much more memorable.

Lisa Belkin, 01/07/13

Senior Columnist on Life/Work/Family, The Huffington Post

I have long been glad they "dragged" me to the ends of the earth, but it wasn't until the day in the Tetons that I fully understood what I was grateful for. Until then I'd thought only of what the travel had given me as an individual -- the sense of comfort in new places, the knowledge that there was a great big world out there. My call to my father was the first time I appreciated what the trips had given us as a family.

Regina Fraser and Pat Johnson, 01/03/13

The Grannies on Safari

When you travel, please remember that the plane, car, boat, bus or any other mode of conveyance is NOT your private place! It's bad enough when you are jammed packed into a metal tube for hours when flying with strangers, but what's worse is when the people you are traveling with think it's their world and all others have to endure living in it.

Patricia Rust, 01/09/13

Screenwriter, Author, PhD.

With tongue securely in cheek, seat up and tray table securely fastened (or was that the seat belt?), I would like to share some tips to make your travels better.

William D. Chalmers, 01/09/13

Writer, philanthropist and professional traveler

Here are the top seven global travel-related barometers that, when taken as a whole, indicate positive global travel trends for 2013.