Welcome back to another episode of Jet Setting with Me. It’s me, Michele, your friendly wanderlust instigator.
Whether you’re soaking up spring break vibes close to home, cozying up with a good book, or Netflixing your way through the week, I’ve got a dreamy episode lined up that blends the best of books, movies, and the cities that inspired them—with a little insider sass and plenty of packing tips.
So grab your favourite travel mug, and let’s get into it: storybook-worthy destinations that’ll have you dreaming.
New York City Inspired by The Devil Wears Prada + Iconic Gapstow Bridge
One of my favorite hidden gems? Gapstow Bridge in Central Park. Tucked on the southeastern edge of the park near The Pond and just steps from Fifth Avenue’s luxury shops, this quaint stone bridge offers one of the most stunning framed views of the Manhattan skyline. Standing in the middle of the bridge, you get that striking contrast of lush greenery against soaring skyscrapers — a picture-perfect New York moment that’s made it a magnet for filmmakers.
In The Devil Wears Prada, Gapstow Bridge appears in the iconic urban jungle photo shoot scene — that fabulous moment when fashion meets nature right in the heart of the city. Its cinematic charm also shines in classics like Home Alone 2, proving this bridge is a recurring star when capturing Manhattan’s magic.
Whether you visit under fiery fall leaves or a dusting of winter snow, Gapstow Bridge offers a serene yet utterly glamorous pause—exactly the kind of spot where you forget you’re in the midst of a bustling metropolis
If you’re dreaming of your own NYC escape, imagine strolling these iconic streets in your fiercest, runway-ready style—popping into legendary bookstores or grabbing a coffee where Hollywood magic once brewed
From Miranda Priestly’s Vogue, let’s jump across the pond to the city of lights, love, and a hefty dose of Emily in Paris fashion.
Paris—the city synonymous with romance, art, and style. Thanks to Emily in Paris, the city’s chic, playful side has captivated a whole new generation of wanderers. And, also thanks to Angela and Melissa of Book Girls’ Guide who led me to read The Paris Novel by Ruth Reichl
We can now all picture ourselves wandering the quaint cobblestone lanes of Paris’s historic neighborhoods—the Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and the charming streets near the Place de la Concorde—where Emily’s stylish footsteps feel right at home. One of her frequent haunts for a café au lait is the iconic Café de Flore, a legendary spot that’s both a writer’s muse and a fashionista’s favorite, perfect for people-watching over a delicate pastry. For a taste of real Parisian glamour, stroll down Rue Saint-Honoré to the upscale boutiques and stop by some of the city’s most celebrated restaurants. This is where The Paris Novel becomes your pocket guide: from the rustic charm of Le Comptoir du Relais to the elegant allure of L’Ambroisie, Reichl’s book maps out unforgettable dining experiences that you, too, can savor during your trip. Soak it all in—the art, the style, and yes, the food—because Paris is,... you know what I’m gonna say—a Chef’s Kiss!”
And here’s the insider scoop: when this episode airs, I’ll be doing an Emily in Paris-inspired photo shoot there myself—because someone’s got to bring you firsthand vibes and inspo.
But wait—there’s more! I’m thrilled to tease an exclusive Emily in Paris group trip coming soon, paired with a wine lover’s Avalon River Cruise along the Rhône, winding through Burgundy to Provence. Imagine charming riverscapes, world-class wines, and your own little Parisian adventure. Stay tuned.
And now, let’s cross the English Channel via the high-speed train for an hour to a timeless countryside where literature and history waltz together just an hour outside of London—Bath, England, through the lens of Jane Austen, who lived there.
Bath is the genteel heart of English literature—where Jane Austen’s stories come alive in honey-hued streets and manicured gardens. (Yes, you may also know it as the location where many outdoor scenes for Bridgerton Season 1 were filmed.)
Here’s the twist: Jane Austen herself had a love-hate relationship with Bath. The city’s glittering social whirl inspired the sharp wit and social commentary in her novel Persuasion, which, fittingly, is streaming now if you want to get in the spirit.
The Jane Austen tour in Bath reveals bittersweet history, including the street where she died, though the exact address remains a mystery
And for my fellow period drama addicts, the same guide who brings Austen’s world to life is also hosting the sold-out Bridgerton Filming Sites tour at the Bridgerton Spring Soiree this March—talk about a double dose of Regency romance and modern-day drama!
Meta Packing Tips: Layer Up, But Make It Destination Perfect!
Yes, yes—we’re all agreed that layers and a trusty packable umbrella are the MVPs of any spring break packing list (and by the way, I’ve linked my absolute fav umbrella on my Amazon storefront for those who want style AND function). But dressing for Bath, Paris, and New York City is where travel chic gets interesting.
In Bath: Think timeless English countryside charm meets Regency wandering—flowy, modest dresses or tailored trousers paired with a structured trench or classic wool coat. Add a chic beret or a silk scarf to echo those Austenera vibes, and you’re set for cobblestones and tea rooms alike. Bonus points for leather ankle boots that say, ‘I can stroll historic streets all day—fashionably.’
In Paris, Layers are essential, but they get a city-chic upgrade. Picture effortless cool—think sleek turtlenecks, tailored blazers, and that perfect mid-length coat that sways when you walk. Don’t forget your signature silk scarf to tie the whole ensemble together, and classic ballet flats or ankle boots that look fabulous but can take you from café terraces to art galleries without missing a beat. Umbrella? Obviously, but make it cute.
In New York City, Layers here mean ready-for-anything street style with an edge. Combine sportychic elements like leather or bomber jackets over hoodies or crisp tees; jeans or stylish joggers; and sneakers built for city miles. Add a beanie or bold sunglasses for attitude, plus a raincoat that can wrangle unpredictable spring showers. Your umbrella better be sturdy enough to withstand the wind but light enough to stash in your crossbody.
So, yes, layer and pack that umbrella, but let your destination’s vibe be your style compass. That’s how you travel like a local—and how you turn packing from a chore into a pre-trip runway show.
Okay, jetsetters, for a couple of literary travel gems to stoke your wanderlust, here’s a rapid-fire bonus round.
First up: Dublin, Ireland—bathed in rain, charm, and the rich legacy of James Joyce. Follow his footsteps through winding streets and cozy pubs, or get swept away by the epic storytelling of Outlander, which vividly brings the Scottish Highlands to life.
And... Amsterdam, the storybook city where I’ll be for my own Spring Break, revisiting the Anne Frank House—going behind the bookcase was a powerful, moving experience for me. Plus, I’m excited to take a canal cruise inspired by the gorgeous new book The Floating Amsterdam Flower Shop. More on that epic trip in a future episode, so keep your ears open
So, whether you’re wandering iconic literary cities or dreaming of your next extraordinary adventure, remember—travel is the ultimate storybook, just waiting for you to write the next chapter.
Speaking of unforgettable journeys, next week we’re switching gears with an episode all about travel for major sporting events like the World Cup and upcoming Olympic Games. I’ll share insider tips on scoring tickets, navigating fan-packed cities, and turning those bucket-list games into truly once-in-a-lifetime trips.
You won’t want to miss it—so stay tuned, jet-setters!
Until next time, make every journey a memory worth savoring
