I recently enjoy a Mediterranean cruise on Costa Cruises newest and largest ship: Costa Smeralda. You can read all about my experience on board the ship here! While this is the 5th largest ship in the world with endless amounts of activities and restaurants to enjoy, I had just as much fun off the ship with Costa. Thanks to their incredible variety of on-shore excursions, I was able to explore a new place every day when we weren’t at sea. Costa really wants you to get into the soul of each place you visit, and with local guides that makes it very easy. Also, they offer very inclusive adventures with excursions for anyone whether you’re young, old, an expert trekker or prefer a slower pace – there is something for everyone! Volcanic Vineyard Wine Tasting in Sicily While we were in Sicily and docked in Messina, I decided to choose their ‘Wine Tasting in a Volcanic Vineyard’ excursion. I absolutely love tasting wine around the world, but this was my first time visiting a vineyard that’s situated 500 meters up the eastern slope of a volcano – Mount Etna to be specific! In fact, Etna is the largest of Italy’s three […]
If you and your spouse are certified foodies, then your honeymoon getaway should include visiting destinations that will require you to bond over food and discover new and exciting delicacies. Thankfully, you will find many incredible honeymoon destinations in the world that offer a truly mouth watering vacation, so planning your trip should be easy. Whether you’re hoping to take part in a food tour of Provence, chow down at the street food stalls in Vietnam, or dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Tuscany, consider these luxury honeymoon destinations for foodies. #1 Provence If you love everything about food, then Provence makes for a great destination for your honeymoon. With the lush inland farms producing the freshest ingredients and the bounty of the sea to tuck into Côte d’Azur, Provence offers the best of French cuisine, whether you’re heading out to eat at some fancy restaurants or rustling something up at the kitchen of your holiday villa. When exploring the food scene of Provence, join an immersive gourmet food tour. During the tour, you’ll hear exciting stories about artisan products, such as truffles, tapenade, and olive oil. Experience the charming atmosphere of a farmer’s market and discover local cuisines. With […]
A new year always brings new hope and excitement! We are very ready and hopeful to explore new places and stay in stunning new luxury properties around the world. Preferred Hotels and Resorts is the world’s largest independent hotel brand and one of our absolute favorites. Their collection consists of over 650 hotels across 85 countries, and there are several new ones opening up in 2022! We wrote all about our recent stays at two of their properties in the United States: Montage Laguna Beach and Eau Palm Beach Resort. Because of their diverse portfolio, I highly recommend joining their rewards program which is absolutely free to join, and they do NOT bombard you with unnecessary emails. I have personally been an I Prefer Rewards member for years now and I love all the perks such as welcome drinks, early check-in and late check-out, room upgrades, free internet, and so much more. Being able to earn points that are redeemable for free hotel stays is also a huge plus for someone who travels as much as I do. But without further ado, check out the new Preferred Hotels and Resorts properties opening in 2022 that we are MOST excited about…. […]
For 70 years, Costa Cruises has led the way in Italian style and hospitality on the seas. In fact, they are the only cruise company in the world that flies the Italian flag! Recently in September 2021, I was thrilled to travel to the Mediterranean to experience Costa’s newest and largest ship: Costa Smeralda. With 20 expansive decks featuring over 1,500 cabins, 17 bars and lounges, 12 entertainment venues, 11 restaurants, 3 pools, 1 unbelievable spa and a museum… it is no surprise to learn that this is the 5th largest cruise ship in the entire world! Keep reading to learn all about my favorite features of Costa’s newest flagship, the magnificent Costa Smeralda… Accommodation: In my opinion, it is always worth splurging on a room with a view and even better, a room with outdoor space! One of my favorite aspects of cruising is sitting on my personal balcony and watching the world sail by. It is such a relaxing way to begin each day and it really gets you in the holiday cruising mindset. With that being said, Costa Smeralda offers a variety of rooms with great views and outdoor space. I’d personally choose their Premium Veranda cabin […]
We are nearing the end of this pandemic and can see the light at the end of the tunnel, what is better time than now to celebrate life, health, and happiness? As European borders are finally opening to visitors, jumpstart your travel experiences post pandemic and indulge yourself by travelling to some of the most authentic, exclusive and luxury destinations in Italy. Planning a destination wedding in Italy, a special birthday party, or a private tour in Italy with your family members was impossible until now. Starting on May 15th Italy will reopen to foreign travelers! Benefits to Planning your Luxury Vacation to Italy… Escape from routine, release stress, and let the good emotions flow. The warm weather and incredible Italian hospitality let you unwind from the stressful everyday life. Pamper your senses with delicious food and wine, surrounded by jaw dropping landscapes. Build great memories with close friends and family after this mentally taxing past year of social distancing. 6 Dreamy & Luxurious Venues: #1 Portofino The vibrant and picturesque fishing village is full of uniquely colored houses, boutique experiences, and high-end restaurants. Portofino sits along the coast of Italy with a view of the Venetian lagoon and is known […]
