Veronica Gordon – also known as @VeronicaGordonOfficial on Instagram – is an accomplished travel and hospitality expert who has visited more than 40 countries across the globe. With a Master's degree in Business and a background in Hospitality Management and Marketing, she brings valuable insights and strategies to brands seeking to attract and satisfy today’s travelers.
She’s also built a digital presence as a go-to consumer resource for travel tips, advice and up-to-the-moment knowledge of hospitality trends. She documents her travels and dispenses pearls of wisdom on her website, VeronicaTheExplorer.com, and via her Instagram, TikTok and YouTube channels.
Experience Grand Rapids engaged Veronica in October 2024 to share her expertise with high school students at the second annual Savor & Soar, which brings young people together with industry professionals for hands-on learning, career exploration and real-world insights into hospitality and tourism. Veronica served on two panels at the event, inspiring students with her unique industry perspectives and experiences.
While she was in town, Veronica took the opportunity to explore a little bit of Grand Rapids, and she was kind enough to share some of her impressions with us.
Taking in the Sights and Smells
“This was my first time in Grand Rapids and there couldn’t have been a better season to visit,” she says. “Experiencing the city during the fall was magical. The crisp air and vibrant hues of red, orange and gold felt like a postcard moment. The charm of Grand Rapids was amplified by the beauty of the season, making it an unforgettable experience. I’m so glad I got to see it in all its autumn splendor and I’d highly recommend visiting during this time of year to anyone looking to soak in nature’s beauty at its peak!”
A highlight of Veronica’s first day in town was a visit to The Aroma Labs in downtown Grand Rapids, where guests are given the opportunity to create their own custom fragrances and incorporate them into perfumes, shower frostings, body lotions, body oils, and travel sprays or rollerballs.
“From the moment I stepped through the door, I was greeted warmly by a knowledgeable and friendly staff member who made me feel instantly at ease,” recalls Veronica. “They took the time to explain the fragrance combination process in detail, ensuring I felt confident and excited about creating my own personalized scent.”
She was presented with a variety of “unique and captivating” scents to explore, allowing her to discover new aromas and find the perfect combination for her fragrance. “I learned about the art of blending scents and the nuances that make each creation special.”
After experimenting with different combinations, “I was able to craft a fragrance that felt uniquely me – a scent that I absolutely loved and couldn’t wait to wear. The entire experience was beautifully curated and left me feeling inspired and deeply satisfied.”
Veronica’s verdict: “Aroma Labs is a must-visit for anyone looking to create a custom fragrance or simply immerse themselves in the delightful world of scents.”
Veronica’s evening started with a perfectly balanced mocktail, setting the tone for a memorable meal at Mertens Prime.
Photo by Courtesy of Veronica Gordon (@veronicagordonofficial)
A Prime Spot for Dining
Dinner that first evening was at Mertens Prime, a French-style steakhouse and brasserie located in a gorgeously renovated former hotel. “The atmosphere was cozy yet refined, blending old-world charm with modern touches that created a relaxed, inviting ambiance perfect for a leisurely meal.”
She started the evening with a house-made mocktail, which she found both delicious and creative. “The balance of flavors was perfectly crafted, making it an ideal drink to sip as I settled in and prepared for what was sure to be a memorable meal.”
The meal began with an appetizer of smoked crab dip – “the smoky flavor combined deliciously with the creamy richness of the cheese – and a roasted beet salad that was “light yet satisfying, with the earthy sweetness of the beets pairing perfectly with the crispness of the greens.”
While Mertens Prime is known for its hand-cut steaks and chops, Veronica opted for a vegetarian dish: butternut squash gnocchi. It did not disappoint: “The dish was a delightful combination of flavors, making each bite a comforting indulgence.”
The service was impeccable throughout her meal. “The staff was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable, ensuring that my dining experience was smooth and enjoyable. Their attention to detail made me feel like a valued guest and they were always on hand to offer recommendations or answer any questions about the menu.”
After dinner, Veronica retired to her hotel, the JW Marriot Grand Rapids, just a 10-minute walk from Mertens Prime.
“A perfect blend of luxury and comfort in a prime location offering stunning views of the Grand River,” she enthuses. “The JW Marriott is an ideal choice for anyone looking to experience the best of what this vibrant city has to offer.”
Every corner of the Grand Rapids Art Museum tells a unique story through a wide array of mediums, from traditional to mixed materials.
Photo by Leigh Ann Cobb for Experience GR
Feeling the Power of Art
In between Day 2’s Savor & Soar sessions, Veronica squeezed in a trip to the Grand Rapids Art Museum in downtown GR. USA Today says Grand Rapids is one of the 10 best American cities where you can see amazing art, and GRAM is a key reason why.
“The Museum’s collection is outstanding, featuring a wide range of artworks from both renowned and emerging artists from all over the world. Every corner of the museum tells a unique story through an array of mediums – including an impressive variety of mixed materials used in many of the pieces. It was fascinating to see how artists utilized unconventional materials and techniques to create thought-provoking and visually captivating works.”
Veronica also took the opportunity to view a special exhibition the Museum was hosting during her visit. Lee Alexander McQueen & Ann Ray: Rendez-Vous showcased many of the British designer’s breathtaking garments alongside personal photographs and pieces from his friend, French photographer Ann Ray.
“It was an intimate look into the designer’s creativity and visionary approach to fashion,” says Veronica, and it reinforced her opinion that the Museum “is a place where the power of art can be experienced in a deeply personal way. It’s a fantastic destination for anyone interested in art, culture and creativity.”
Where Art Meets Nature
The focal point of day 3 was a tour of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, named America’s #1 Sculpture Park by USA Today and the #2 Botanical Gardens in the U.S. by TravelAwaits.
“I was in awe of how seamlessly the sculptures and plant life were integrated into the landscape, creating an immersive experience where each corner revealed something new and mesmerizing. What made this visit even more special was the stunning fall colors that were on full display. The vibrant reds, oranges and yellows of the foliage added an extra layer of magic to the garden’s already breathtaking scenery. As I strolled through the pathways, the changing leaves created a picturesque backdrop that made the gardens even more enchanting.”
The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden was a particular favorite. “It truly felt like stepping into a peaceful, serene sanctuary. The carefully crafted bridges, tranquil ponds and thoughtfully placed bonsai trees all worked together to transport me to a place of balance and calm. The soothing sounds of water trickling from fountains, combined with the perfect landscaping, created a serene atmosphere that allowed me to feel connected to the beauty of nature.”
Chez Olga’s commitment to authentic Haitian cuisine makes it a standout in Grand Rapids.
Photo by Courtesy of Veronica Gordon (@veronicagordonofficial)
A Taste of the Tropics
After several hours exploring Meijer Gardens, Veronica headed to Caribbean restaurant Chez Olga in Uptown Grand Rapids for dinner.
“One of the first things that stood out to me was the beautiful artwork adorning the walls. The art depicted scenes from Haiti, mirroring the very essence of the cuisine that Olga serves.
“The Caribbean flavors in each dish were absolutely delightful. The authenticity of the food was clear, from the carefully prepared spices to the rich textures that made each dish feel like it was made with love and care. What really makes Chez Olga special, is Olga herself. She is not just a chef but a passionate creator, bringing island-inspired specials that are full of heart.
“Chez Olga is more than just a restaurant, it’s an experience that transports you to the streets of Haiti, one flavorful dish at a time.”
Cheers to Grand Rapids
There was time to fit one more experience into the trip, and Veronica opted for drinks at Pursuit of Happiness Co., a champagne bar a half mile from Chez Olga.
“It was an absolute delight, a bubbly breath of fresh air,” she raves, singling out the house champagne for special praise. “It’s a refreshingly crisp and delicious creation that stood out as each sip was a celebration of flavor. Beyond the drinks, the staff at Pursuit of Happiness deserves special mention. They were warm, welcoming and passionate about sharing their love for champagne, making sure I and every other guest felt right at home.”
Veronica felt right at home in Grand Rapids, too. “I didn’t know much about Grand Rapids but it completely surprised me in the best way. The city has an irresistible charm, blending stunning natural beauty with a beautiful walkable downtown,” she says.
“The people were friendly and welcoming and it made exploring the city all the more enjoyable. Grand Rapids is the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left!”