I just returned from a wonderful trip to Tahiti, taking in Bora Bora and enjoying the island’s St. Regis and Four Seasons resorts — two properties I recommend for your list of places to visit. There is nothing like the overwater villas and the ability to dive just off your room into the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean. Air Tahiti Nui is celebrating its 15th anniversary this fall with a reconfiguration of business and economy cabins, adding new seats and a state-of-the-art entertainment system. All this will make a visit to Tahiti even more enjoyable. It amazes me how airlines open up destinations and become the true catalyst to attract visitors to their home country.

On the way back from the South Pacific, I had a wonderful stay in one of the villas at The Peninsula Beverly Hills. It was like a home away from home with a large living room, a fireplace and a beautiful bedroom and bath. The villas offer discreet private entrances, a feature many of the hotel’s VIPs appreciate. For dinner, we took the elevator to the rooftop and enjoyed their fantastic menu and a lovely Frank Napa Valley Zinfandel.

I am pleased Star Alliance customers agree with the readers of Global Traveler, rating Brussels Airlines No. 1 in the last quarter of 2012 for overall customer experience; customers also rated the airline the best for cabins and in-flight entertainment in the first quarter of 2013. The carrier adds service between Washington, D.C., and Brussels June 18, leaving Dulles at 10:35 p.m. and offering the ability to sleep on the way to the Continent and make connections all over Europe and Africa.

As you read this June issue, summer is in full swing. If you do not have a scheduled trip, it is not too late — there are so many opportunities. I planned a golf trip to Porto, Portugal, and a trip to Korea and China this month. I am looking forward to a firsthand experience on Asiana Airlines’ new first-class suite, flying Chicago to Incheon. I will surely report on this new service.

I know many of you are leading the way and represent Global Traveler as you travel the world!