Sea Island Resort

It’s no secret that Sea Island is a special place to me and my family. My husband and I celebrated both our honeymoon and babymoon there, and we love going to visit! We recently spent a few nights at Sea Island as a family, which felt like a full circle moment. 

Located on Georgia’s exclusive Sea Island, the resort is a luxurious destination known for its Southern hospitality, outdoor adventures, and refined relaxation. It’s a favorite for couples, families, and golf lovers alike.

The resort offers a range of high-end accommodations, and I’ve stayed at most of them and can help clients find the right fit. The Cloister is a Mediterranean-style hotel with Forbes Five-Star service, while The Lodge caters to golf enthusiasts with private cottages and a world-class Golf Performance Center. Families often choose Sea Island Cottages for their space and convenience.

Sea Island features three championship golf courses—Seaside, Plantation, and Retreat—each with its own unique landscape and challenges. Guests also enjoy tennis, water sports, horseback riding, a shooting school, and a 65,000-square-foot spa (which I love visiting whenever I can!).

Dining options are varied and high-quality. The Georgian Rooms and Colt & Alison offer fine dining, Tavola serves Italian favorites, and Southern Tide brings beachside seafood. Casual spots and a charming candy shop round out the options.

Families will find plenty to enjoy, from Camp Cloister (starting at age 3) and the Beach Club to Sea Strike & Pub, a bowling alley with arcade games. Signature experiences include sunset bagpipe performances at the Lodge, an adults-only pool, and a five-star spa and fitness center.

Consistently ranked among the best resorts in the U.S., Sea Island has earned Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond ratings and even hosted the 2004 G8 Summit. It blends luxury, nature, and Southern charm into an unforgettable getaway.

If you’d like to experience Sea Island yourself, when you book with Jessica Drew Travel you receive the following perks during your stay:

• Daily breakfast credit of $45 per person, for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant and via in-room dining (credit is non-cumulative)

• $100 USD Resort credit that can be applied to any Sea Island amenity excluding accommodations, retail outlets and gift shops

• Early check-in / Late check-out (subject to availability)

• Upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)

Blackberry Farm

Blackberry Farm is a luxury resort nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains in Walland, Tennessee. Renowned for its unique blend of rustic charm and refined Southern hospitality, the property offers guests an immersive experience centered around nature, wellness, and world-class cuisine. The setting is serene and scenic, making it a sought-after destination for those looking to unwind in a peaceful, upscale environment.

My husband and I were lucky enough to visit in early May, which was a perfect time to enjoy the spring weather with bits of sunshine and warmer temperatures. I truly think any season at Blackberry Farm would be a great time to visit!

Accommodations at Blackberry Farm include a range of elegantly appointed rooms, suites, and private cottages. Each space is designed with comfort and sophistication in mind, often featuring wood accents, plush furnishings, and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Whether staying in the Main House or one of the estate’s secluded cottages, guests enjoy a cozy, luxurious atmosphere.

A standout feature of the resort is its acclaimed farm-to-table dining. The culinary program places a strong emphasis on Appalachian traditions and ingredients sourced directly from the farm itself. Guests can savor seasonal meals crafted by skilled chefs, attend cooking demonstrations, and even participate in wine tastings or food-centric events that showcase regional flavors and artisanal techniques.

Wellness is another cornerstone of the Blackberry Farm experience. The Wellhouse spa offers a variety of holistic treatments, fitness classes, and wellness programs designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Yoga sessions, massage therapy, and personalized wellness consultations are available to help guests fully relax and recharge.

For those who love the outdoors, the resort provides an array of activities including fly fishing, hiking, horseback riding, cycling, and archery. These experiences are guided by expert staff and allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains in a meaningful, engaging way.

Blackberry Farm is more than just a place to stay—it's a full experience rooted in craftsmanship, comfort, and connection to nature. It appeals especially to food lovers, couples, and wellness seekers looking for an intimate yet luxurious escape.

If you’re interested in staying at Blackberry Farm, reach out today to learn about the perks you can receive when booking with Jessica Drew Travel. I absolutely loved my time at Blackberry Farm and would love to help you find the right accommodations for your stay!

The Greenbrier

Over the weekend I traveled to The Greenbrier, located in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, for a girls weekend with a few friends. I’ve previously been to The Greenbrier, but it’s been a number of years so I was excited to get back!

While The Greenbrier is now a historic luxury resort, it has roots dating back to 1778, when visitors first began coming to the area to experience the healing properties of its sulphur springs. By the early 1800s, it had evolved into a fashionable retreat, eventually becoming known as the Old White Hotel. In 1913, the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway purchased and expanded the property, renaming it The Greenbrier. The resort was used as a military hospital during World War II before undergoing a postwar transformation led by famed interior designer Dorothy Draper. In the 1950s, a massive Cold War-era nuclear bunker was secretly constructed beneath the hotel to serve as an emergency relocation site for the U.S. Congress, a secret that remained until it was revealed in 1992. After facing financial difficulties, The Greenbrier was purchased and revitalized by businessman Jim Justice in 2009. Today, it remains a symbol of refined elegance and American history, featuring a casino, golf courses, a spa, and tours of its fascinating past.

The Greenbrier features a number of dining options, including Prime 44 West, Sam Sneads, Draper’s Cafe, and more. During my visit I dined in the main dining room, Prime 44 West, and Sam Sneads. I was very impressed with the level of service, attentiveness, and the quality of our meals throughout our stay.

The Lobby Bar was lively every night, and was a really great place to grab a drink before dinner. The mood across the property was joyful and engaged, and guests were very friendly during our time at The Greenbrier. 

There’s no shortage of activities at The Greenbrier, regardless of the season. There are multiple golf courses on-site or nearby, afternoon tea is served daily, there’s a bowling alley, as well as an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, and a spa. History rich activities include the bunker tour (which I recommend for any guest), a carriage ride, exterior history walking tour, and an interior history walking tour. I really wish I had had a bit longer at The Greenbrier so I could experience more of these activities.

The summer and the holidays are the most popular times to visit The Greenbrier, but I enjoyed visiting during a slightly quieter period (although the resort was near capacity). I think The Greenbrier is a great choice for couples or families, as there are traditional rooms, suites, cottages, and homes available to book.

If you’re interested in staying at The Greenbrier, reach out via email to get the planning process started!