In the course of my freelance writing pursuits (as you well know if you follow me on Instagram!), I’m presented with the opportunity to do some pretty remarkable things, be it writing about luxury watches, sampling opulent bourbon or traveling to London to try the world’s best Scotch. Of course, this blog and my other writing pursuits keep me plenty busy and present opportunities all their own, but none quite like the journey I’ve undertaken this week.

Over these past few days, I’ve had the lifetime chance to hop on a plane and hop across the pond — not to Europe, but to the famed city of Tangier, Morocco, where I’ve hunkered down for the week at the new Fairmont Tazi Palace Tangier. A review will follow on Maxim.com, but again, my Instagram has an inside look at the stunning accommodations!

Talk about an opportunity for a “work trip” not to be passed up, particularly as a chance to start the new year and escape the cold grey of New York City. Myself and my fellow journalists have explored the city on foot, sipped on cocktails throughout the resort, and generally enjoyed (an understatement!) this iconic destination. I won’t spoil it all, but it’s been stunning.

While I don’t write travel reviews on the daily, I’m becoming more acquainted with jetting from one destination to the next, honing my writing skills and eye for detail along the way (a never-ending quest!). And to get the chance to do that in such a historic city, and in such a luxurious locale, is nothing short of remarkable, frankly. Again, you can look for a full review in the days ahead at Maxim.com, but for now, I think I’ll take in the sights and sounds of the city one last time before heading home. As always: Thanks for reading and for your support!