June is a great time to plan a trip — and if you're going to travel, why not travel first-class?

For this issue of Her magazine, I journeyed to Cary and Richmond, Va., to tell you all about staying at a top-ranked luxury hotel. You'll find out what it's like to sleep and dine at The Jefferson Hotel and The Umstead Hotel and Spa and learn just what sets these two AAA five-diamond hotels apart from the rest. And I'll share tips about tipping so you'll know how much to give all those people who work to make your stay so special.

Members of the Her magazine readers' panel share some of their favorite vacation destinations, as well as their advice about heading off a travel disaster.

Also on these pages: the perfect bag to pack for a week or a weekend; the essential items you can't forget to take along with you; and some suggestions for perfect picnic fare.

If you need to punch up your wardrobe for the season, you'll find some red-hot ideas. And there's also fitness, health and beauty advice, as always.

Thanks for reading this issue of Her magazine. And, where ever you roam, bon voyage!