Where staff at Dinogo Planet explored in August

As a child, watching the Olympics on TV, it never crossed my mind that I could actually attend in person. This year, I made that dream a reality with a trip to Paris for the summer games. The Olympics? A once-in-a-lifetime experience. Paris? Always a fantastic choice. It was the perfect combination.

For nearly two weeks, I raced through one of my favorite cities to witness the world's top athletes compete. From a thrilling women’s soccer match at Parc des Princes to pole vaulting at the impressive Stade de France, being there to witness the realization of dreams—both the athletes’ and my own—was indescribable.

Travel is all about connection, immersing us in incredible experiences. Instead of relying on AI-generated lists, we value insights from locals eager to showcase their unique perspectives, along with travelers who love sharing their cool discoveries, itineraries, and tips.

I cherish hearing the tales from our team, who are still buzzing from their unforgettable travels in August. I hope their stories inspire you as much as they inspire me.

– Laura Motta, Senior Content Director

Paris, France

Laura Motta, Senior Content Director

I have to remind myself repeatedly to truly accept it: I attended the Olympics! Twelve days filled with outstanding athletic performances, scorching heat, stunning Parisian sunsets, questionable stadium food, and an overwhelming rush of emotions have left me exhausted—and a bit let down by the monotony of life after the games. 

Laura's top picks

1. Most memorable moment Cheering for the U.S. figure skating team at Champions Park beneath the Eiffel Tower as they finally received their long-awaited gold medal from the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics.

2. Shopping highlight In the delightfully quiet Marais, where most locals were away and many tourists were at the Games.

3. Favorite meal Enjoying lunch at Monsieur Bleu in the Palais de Tokyo! I savored a haricot vert salad paired with a glass of white wine on the terrace.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Erin Lenczycki, Photo Editor

My husband and I recently returned from our biennial trip to Edinburgh for the Fringe Festival. Over five days, we managed to see 28 shows while exploring the city, and I still wished for just one more! This year, friends from all over Europe and the US joined us, motivating us to experience a broader range of performances. I never imagined that a Shrek-themed burlesque and a puppet show about a 44th birthday party would be among the highlights of our visit.

Erin's top picks

1. Most memorable moment Grabbing my breakfast to-go while hiking up Arthur’s Seat. I enjoyed a peach, basil, and ricotta sandwich from Twelve Triangles, starting my day with a picnic view over the city in the serene morning.

2. Shopping hotspots Discover fantastic 70s suede at Armstrongs Vintage or 40s cocktail dresses at Carnivàle Vintage.

3. Favorite meal I thoroughly enjoyed the food tour at the Fringe’s Assembly Rooms in George Square. Finding a dinner table in August can be tricky, so join the crowd and indulge in the food trucks! Choose from vegan cubanos, mac n’ cheese, samosa chaat, and more.

Munich, Germany

Melissa Yeager, Destination Editor

Germany has a special place in my heart, as I spent a year there during a fellowship in 2017-18. I was excited to return to Munich this summer for several weeks, allowing me to practice my German and relive all my favorite things about the country.

Melissa's top picks

1. Most memorable moment Participating in the Kocherlball. This folk dance festival takes place on the 3rd weekend of July, in the early hours of the morning.

2. A must-see The surfers at Eisbachwelle in Englischer Garten. Not into surfing? On a warm day, you can also jump in and float down the Eisbach River.

3. Favorite dish I loved the Bavarian Schnitzel at Wirtshaus Görreshof. It features mustard in the crust!

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Serina Patel, Marketing Manager

I recently enjoyed a weekend getaway in Grand Cayman, staying at the Westin. I flew directly from New York (JFK) to GCM on Cayman Airways, welcomed by sunny skies and sparkling blue waters. What could be better?

Serina's top picks

1. Most memorable moment We visited Stingray City with Red Sail Sports and swam with the friendly rays—it was enchanting!

2. A must-see While you're here, you absolutely need to visit Seven Mile Beach (which is actually about 5.5 miles) and the Cayman Islands National Museum. And don't forget to try a mudslide!

3. Favorite dishAgua was fantastic! The eggplant ravioli and yuca fries are a must-try.