Spring 2022 Magazine
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Croatian Holiday
/Hello, my name is Eset, and I am a travel enthusiast and the newest contributor to Love + Leisure Blog. I journal some of my most memorable travel experiences in my little corner of the internet at dapsetgo.com. I'm here to share an amazing trip we took to Croatia and the properties we got to stay in.
It was the summer of 2021. Temperatures were rising, the world was tentatively opening up, and we were entertaining the idea of getting away for a summer holiday. After being homebound for the last year, we were itching to get lost in a foreign city and immerse ourselves in different languages and cultures. We carved out two weeks to explore Central Europe starting at the captivating medieval Prague, making our way south to the regal and imperial Vienna. After devouring some tasty goulashes and schnitzels, we ended our trip on the southern coast of Croatia. When researching the best places to visit in Croatia, Dubrovnik kept coming up as the best mix of history, scenic beaches, and great hotels. Once we got a glimpse of the sea of red-tiled roofs, turquoise waters, and colorful alleyways we knew this was the city we wanted to visit.
Coined the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik is a coastal town with fortifications that stood for more than five centuries. Slender ships sailing in the gleaming Adriatic Sea, and limestone forts jetting out from rock outcrops, terra-cotta rooftops canvasing the hillside; are a few of the sights that leave an indelible impression. Inside city walls lay the Baroque Old Town emanating the rich history of this former mighty republic with its prominent monasteries, well-preserved churches, and lavish mansions. The city's draw was in its romantic sun-washed limestone walls, small boats floating in the bay, stairs to mysterious heights, and lively corners with water wells. It's the magic that was captured in King's Landing from the popular Game of Thrones.
For our stay in Dubrovnik, we chose Hotel More, a 5-star boutique property carved out on a hillside. The property was about a 10-min drive to the Old Town and close enough to all the sights but far enough for the buzzing nightlife. Its tranquil seaside views were a warm welcome and a refreshing start to the last leg of our journey. Upon arrival in the late afternoon, we headed to the beach for a dip in the clear waters of the bay. We stumbled upon the remarkable cave bar on the lower level which enveloped us with cool air and twinkling ceiling lights. It was a surreal segway before stepping onto the waterfront. With its location, beautiful seaside views, fantastic restaurants, and beachfront access; this award-winning hotel checks off all the boxes for a remarkable hotel.
Over the next two days, we explored the Old Town and its surroundings. We walked the city walls with our toddler in tow and stopped frequently to take in the magnificent views and replenish with freshly squeezed juice. We wandered through the Old Town, getting lost in the little alleyways and ducking into churches to absorb the serenity. We got to partake in one of our favorite activities, people watching while sipping wine from a corner bistro. There were several activities for the adventurous souls, from kayaking in the bright green Adriatic Sea; catching a ferry to Lokrum island to explore lush gardens and secluded swimming holes; and taking a dip in the warm waters from one of the rocky beaches.
After a glorious few days of exploring the Old Town, it was time to get away from the crowds and experience the other side of the coast. Cavtat is a beautiful seaside town that can be reached with a scenic boat ride from the bustling port in Dubrovnik. Getting off the boat we were immediately struck by the relaxed atmosphere of the town. We planned to stay at Hotel Croatia, a 5-star resort with a stunning waterfront and expansive grounds. It is ideally located right off of the marina, and main promenade with a flight of stairs leading to the hotel from the waterfront. With tiered rocky beaches, outdoor and indoor pools, and luxurious spas it was an idyllic location to spend our last two days in Croatia. The spacious resort was a beautiful maze to navigate as we sampled the different restaurants and stumbled onto different family-friendly activities. On our last night, we caught a beautiful sunset from our balcony as we soaked in the final moments of our long-awaited holiday. We vowed to come back to explore other cities along the coast like Split and Havar, and even take a boat to Montenegro.
COVID Travel Updates- Where can you travel and planning tips
/Travel Confidently. Travel Responsibly. Travel Advice with Love + Leisure.
Relying on experts has never been more important. From the latest in travel guidelines and regulations, booking with excellent suppliers, to the health and safety standards, our team is working to stay equipped with the knowledge you need to travel confidently and responsibly. Expert guidance backed by the service level that only travel professionals can bring is so important during this time. Our team has decided to postpone all of our personal international travel in 2020, but we do have clients who are interested in traveling as safely as possible. Here are some things you need to know:
1. Check the country’s Tourism page for the most recent and accurate travel guidelines and information. Example- https://www.bahamas.com/tourism-reopening
2. Visit the IATA travel dashboard and interactive map
This map and dashboard contains a country-by-country listing of COVID-19-related public health requirements that passengers and airline crew need to follow at the airport and onboard the aircraft.
3. Stay up to date on Passport Services
4. Get in the habit of budgeting for travel insurance. It was something that travel advisors highly recommended before, but something that could be required moving forward. If you get quarantined when you arrive to your destination, travel insurance may help you pay for costs you didn’t budget for, like 14 additional nights! Read the fine print and call the insurance companies to make sure you have the coverage that you need. We like Travel Insured as an option. You can get a quote here.
5. Make sure you are prepared for arrival and departure. Read all the requirements and make sure you are O.K. with them. Do you have an issue with wearing a mask in shared spaces, taking a test, not fully enjoying amenities at the resort, or following the rules? These are all things to consider. For example, look at the requirements St. Maarten currently has in place, are you ready?
If you have any questions or would like assistance booking your next trip, please contact us
info@loveleisuretravel.com
Popular Scams to be Aware of When Traveling
/The last thing that you want to worry about on vacation is the possibility of getting scammed. Unfortunately, it happens more often than you’d like to think. It’s important to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings no matter where you are, but especially when traveling abroad in unfamiliar territories.
Read below to find out more about popular scams that are used around the globe.
Images on behaLf of boreDpanda.com
Benefits of Travel Advisors
/Travel advisors are invaluable when it comes to planning your destination wedding, honeymoon or your next dream vacation. Read below to find out why!
Personal Touch: At L&L we pride ourselves on getting to know our clients and planning a trip that meets all of their needs. From the initial consult, we’ll deep dive into your likes/dislikes, travel preferences, and other important questions that would help us to create an ideal itinerary for YOU!
Added Value & Perks: As Travel Advisors, we are privy to insider knowledge that is only available to professionals. We are able to negotiate (when necessary) and find the best deals possible from our suppliers that you would rarely find online. We’ve built relationships with resorts, tour companies and suppliers that allow us to offer certain perks and benefits to our clients. You want VIP treatment on your upcoming honeymoon? Let us know, we can make it happen!
Convenience: We take care of every aspect of your trip. From flights to ground transportation and excursions. When you’re on vacation, the last thing you want to spend time doing is planning & ensuring that your itinerary is in order. Working with L&L allows you to be worry & stress free, saving you invaluable time along with the headaches of scouring the Internet for travel deals. Plus, you're more likely to look forward to your trip when you haven't spent the last year stressing over minor details.
24/7 Help: Our suppliers are working around the clock, and when our clients are on vacation, your L&L advisor is available for any of your needs. Missed flight? Wrong room at check-in? Overbooked hotel? We can assist with getting this sorted out. We’re here to ensure you have the most amazing, stress free trip.
How to plan for your destination wedding site visit- Checklist
/One way to plan for your destination wedding site visit is to have a clear vision and be informed about all the options, fees and policies. In our guide below we have outlined questions that you should consider before signing a contract. Get a glimpse of what our expert destination wedding partner planner Candice, CM Events and Design considers when assisting her clients in finding the perfect destination wedding venue.
A Good Hotel Can Make or Break Your Vacation!
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What’s the number one thing for you to consider when making vacation plans? For me, after selecting the destination, the hotel accommodations are essential and here’s why!
Whether you are traveling for an adventure, a romantic get away, or relaxation, the one common denominator is you want peace of mind. I’m reminded of my first European vacation in 2008 when my good friends and I explored London, Madrid, Paris, and Rome. Imagine walking into this nondescript hotel lobby that looks seemingly ok; however, the front desk personnel looks super sketchy and after checking in recommends, my three friends and I take the lift separately because it’s to small to carry us and our luggage. Once we get to our floor, it was eerily dim and looks like it’s out of some horror movie like Hostel. Long story short, we didn’t even want to touch the bed! We did what any take charge, boss woman would do, we regrouped, accessed the terrible internet, and found this cool hotel website with amazing deals, I have no idea if the website still exists; however, we were able to access some amazing hotel deals at a fraction of the cost and get peace of mind our vacation would not end like a scary movie. Who knew this would be a defining moment that would lead me to becoming a jet-setter, enjoying amazing hotels all over the world, and a Travel Advisor for Love and Leisure Boutique Travel Agency.
I will highlight one of my favorite hotels on the trip:
Boscolo Excedra Roma, which was acquired by Marriott and renamed Palazzo Naiadi, The Dedica Anthology, Autograph Collection is a modern iteration of a late 19th-century palace that captures the enchanting essence of Rome, Italy.
This unique, 5 star hotel was pure elegance and in the heart of Rome. We we were able to explore amazing restaurants and historical sites.
I highly recommend visiting:
The Colosseum
The Vatican
Saint Peter’s Basilica
Spanish Steps
Pantheon
and so much more!
Although it’s been 12 years since my first European vacation, my all time favorite experience was eating so many wonderful dishes with amazing friends. The pasta and bread was fresh and extremely delicious. I still look back fondly and remember the unique cultural aspects.
It’s not customary to tip your wait staff. I still feel if someone goes above and beyond, it’s nice to recognize exceptional service.
Water and bread typically are not free, when our waiter brought us bread and said, “It’s on the house,” it was still on our bill.
When trying new restaurants, steer clear of the touristy areas for a more authentic experience
Italy is by far one of my favorite countries where I have visited with some of the most amazing hotels and delicious food. Next month, I will highlight when I traveled to Milan in 2019.
Drop a note in the comments of your best and worst hotel experiences.
Cheers!
Writer: Chericka Johnson, Travel Advisor
Forward Thinking
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Are you feeling like you havecabin fever? During these uncertain times, while we are quarantined, it’s super imperative we stay healthy and positive. A few ways to stay positive are to speak words of affirmation and plan for the future! If you are feeling cabin fever and low in spirits, now is a great time to refocus perspective, speak affirming words, and daydream a little about your next vacation.
Words of Affirmation
How often do you encourage yourself and speak positivity? It’s so hard to stop and slow down. However, the world has come to a halt and we have now gained some time to refocus and shift our perspective. My hope is that we come out on the other side of this quarantine, better than before. When you feel anxious or your spirits are feeling low, below are a few words of affirmation:
I let go of fear and I let hope in!
All things are working for my good!
I have a future and a hope!
Everything I need will be provided!
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be desirable!
I do not have a spirit of fear, but of love, peace and a sound mind!
I will not fear. I am strong and courageous!
I am wonderfully made!
Today, I choose joy!
Print tHis Free Words of aFfirmation card!
Wander List
What dreams do you have? Where would you like to travel? What’s a bucket list item?
Allow your mind to wander about the future! When we focus on the future, it gives us something to look forward to. When we have something to look forward to, while it’s not our only source of hope, it helps give us a hope! Check out the free Travel Itinerary printable below!
Drop us a comment to let us know tips and tricks to stay positive during these uncertain times.
Our hope is that you and your family will have peace that surpasses all understanding and stay healthy.
Writer: Chericka Johnson, Travel Advisor
Destination Weddings- Welcome Bags
/Today’s blog post is from destination wedding planning company CM Events and Design!
Welcome gifts are a great way to greet your guests upon arrival, especially when you are not able to. They are very popular for destination weddings or when you have a lot of guests traveling from out of town to your local wedding. Are welcome bags necessary? No not at all! There are various ways to elevate your guests experience, but nailing the greeting is a great start and will be their first impression of the event! Welcome bags can be costly, so it is important to prioritize your budget and spend it in areas that will have the most impact on your wedding and guest experience. We have curated 4 welcome gift inspiration boards. Hopefully they will help you think of ways to add thoughtful but fun details when creating your own!
MEXICO WEDDING- HOLA AMIGOS!
Details- This welcome gift inspiration features:
Gold foil Mexico bag
Round beach blanket with tassels
Mini piñatas
Fun drink float
Tumbler with custom decal
Cactus lollipop
Sunglasses
Hangover Kit
Thank you card and itinerary
COSTA RICA WEDDING- PURA VIDA!
Details- This welcome gift inspiration features:
Bamboo handle bag
Beach blanket
Costa Rica chocolate
Costa Rica coffee
Boxed water
Sunglasses
Welcome letter
Regret nothing kit
JAMAICA WEDDING- YA MON!
Details- This welcome gift inspiration features:
Tortuga Rum Cake
Jamaica bag and matching tumbler
Mini Appleton Rum
Banana chips
Voss water
LUSH Beach Bomb
Welcome itinerary
Destination of the Month: Los Cabos, Mexico
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Los Cabos is a magic land full of contrast from the breathtaking seas to the desert and mountains. Known as “Land’s End” for being located at the tip of the southern Baja California Peninsula, step into the extraordinary world of Los Cabos where the unparalleled natural beauty, biodiversity and range of amenities will appeal to any personality.
Top 5 Fan-Favorite Experiences:
THE CABO ARCH
The distinctive landmark of Cabo San Lucas is the rugged taffy-colored El Arco (The Arch) rock formation that erupts from the sea at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. Enjoy views of the iconic golden arch while passing lazy sea lions basking on the rocks.
TODOS SANTOS
Travel in time and explore Todos Santos, one of the most picturesque villages of Baja California Sur. Tap into history and get a chance to talk face to face with the local artists in their studios and galleries, enjoy a BajaMed meal at Jazamango and stop at sunset for a breathtaking view of the sea from the bar of the Hotel San Cristóbal.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a first-time mountain biker, you can explore the Baja California outback with a mountain bike excursion in Rancho San Cristobal. Ride through the impressive landscape for an up-close introduction to the flora and fauna that flourish in the dry environment with stunning views and the fresh ocean breeze.
EL TRIUNFO (GOLD ROUTE)
This is a journey through time, a blast to the past where character and effort conquered the desert to receive the bonanza with which El Triunfo was founded. Tour the Ruta de Oro (Golden Route) with freshly roasted coffee and artisanal bread, then walk through the history of the town of El Triunfo. Learn about native crops and enjoy the sunset with a drink of local favorite mezcal.
THE AMAZING TENORS: ‘SPANISH SUNG HERE’
Get ready for a magical event. Senses, emotions and flavors will come together offering a unique experience in Cabo San Lucas. Experience a private concert delivered by humpback whale as you sail along the Pacific Ocean and watch for incredible sea life during this unforgettable whale watching adventure in Cabo. Available from October - June.
Where to stay in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands!
/Turks and Caicos is a one of a kind destination. Home to stunning coral reef, shimmering blue waters, delicious seafood and some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet! With the relaxing and lighthearted atmosphere, Turks and Caicos is definitely a place to go and rejuvenate.
Only a short trip from the East Coast, Providenciales (often referred to as Provo) should be on your summer vacation shortlist. After visiting twice, I can say it’s my favorite island that I’ve had the pleasure to visit in the West Indies. If you’re curious on where to stay, check out 5 of our favorite resorts below:
Seven Stars Resort
Framed by white-sand beaches, sunny skies and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, this fetching island resort provides the perfect vacation setting for unforgettable honeymoons, romantic getaways and fun-filled family retreats. Here spacious guestrooms ensure the upmost in comfort, while the fitness center, full-service spa, sparkling pool and dynamic restaurants are the perfect compliment to the resort’s welcoming atmosphere.
Current Promotions:
Complimentary Buffet Breakfast & More!
Rates include welcome cocktail, complimentary breakfast buffet, complimentary use of non-motorized water sports equipment, health club admission and WIFI.
The Palms Turks and Caicos
With a signature restaurant serving gourmet Pan-tropical cuisine, an alluring infinity pool and a lavish spa, guests to this exemplary Caribbean resort experience the ultimate in relaxation and pampered luxury. Inspired suites boast expansive outdoor terraces, first-class amenities, mahogany furniture, marble floors and vaulted ceilings.
Current Promotions:
Guests will receive the following complimentary hotel amenities:
• Full American breakfast buffet at The Garden (room service not included)
• Free long distance phone calls to USA and Canada
• Supervised Kids Club for ages 4-12 (excludes meals)
• Use of snorkeling gear, hobie cat sailboats, and kayaks
• High-speed wireless internet access in public areas
• Use of fitness center
• Use of tennis court
• Infinity Pool
• Resort bicycles
Windsong Resort
With a coveted setting on the pristine white sands of Grace Bay Beach, Windsong Resort is the only four-star resort on Providenciales located directly on a snorkeling reef, which lies just 20 yards offshore. Laid-back island luxury defines our intimate Caribbean resort, which features hotel rooms, studios and expansive one- to four-bedroom oceanfront suites and unparalleled turquoise water views.
Alongside our spectacular oceanfront surroundings, you can expect casually sophisticated interiors, three distinctive dining experiences, refreshing non-motorized watersports and impeccable service – courtesy of our Butler Station – to fulfill any request large or small.
The Sands at Grace Bay
Complimented by tropical landscapes and island breezes, this deluxe resort provides the perfect setting for relaxing Caribbean getaways. The large array of amenities includes an in-ground Jacuzzi, a unique restaurant specializing in fresh seafood and a free-form pool that meanders throughout the hotel’s lovely gardens.
Special Inclusions!
Guests will receive the following included amenities:
• Welcome drink upon arrival
• Beach & pool lounge chairs & towels
• Complimentary Bicycle use
• Weekly Rum Punch Party
• Complimentary non-motorized water sports
• Palapa Beach Shades
• Complimentary WiFi
The Shore Club Turks and Caicos
Defined by a spirit of relaxation and adventure, The Shore Club resort brings an exclusive Turks and Caicos resort experience to the most sought-after stretch of Providenciales: Long Bay Beach, a stunning, secluded beach minutes away from Provo’s town center. An indulgent spa, four pools, three restaurants, luxurious accommodations, and breathtaking views elevate the resort beyond paradise. The Shore Club – designed by the Hartling Group – invites guests to discover their own balance of well-being and indulgence.
Complimentary Inclusions:
• Full American Breakfast Buffet from 7:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
• Free long distance phone calls to USA and Canada.
• Supervised Kids Club for ages 4-12 (excludes meals).
• Personal Concierge for One, Two and Three Bedroom Suites.
• Butler service in Penthouse suites.
• Use of Bicycles.
• Use of Business Center.
• Use of all resort owned non-motorized water sports equipment.
• High-speed wireless internet.
• Welcome amenity.
• Use of Tennis Court.
• Four Pools
• Fitness Center
Providenciales is not known as an all-inclusive destination. Though many of the resorts offer boarding packages, there are tons of great restaurants on the island that are worth checking out. My top 3 are listed below:
Is This A Great Time To Travel?
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Duomo
Milan, Italy
“The world is a big place and there are still plenty of destinations to visit that haven’t been impacted by the coronavirus,” said Daniel Durazo, a spokesman for Allianz Partners USA.
We are all wondering if this is a great time to travel...
At Love and Leisure Boutique Travel Agency, we believe it’s always a good time to travel. However, we understand the concerns our current and potential clients may have.
The best thing to do before booking travel or completing travel is to work with a travel advisor. Love and Leisure Boutique Travel Agency has your best interest in mind.
We will provide you with exceptional customer service and research to help guide you through the travel process and destinations that may or may not be impacted by the coronavirus outbreak.
We believe the health of you and your loved ones is extremely important. Vacationing is about enjoying time with loved ones, relaxing, and exploring. The last thing we want you to be concerned with is impacting the health of you or loved ones negatively.
Breckenridge, CO
Three pertinent questions to ask yourself before traveling:
Does the coronavirus impact my travel destination?
Is my demographic at risk of a coronavirus infection (age or pre-existing medical conditions)?
Do I have travel insurance? Will my travel insurance cover the costs if I have to cancel my trip due to the coronavirus outbreak?
In addition to asking yourself the aforementioned questions, there are various resources you can access to equip you with the necessary information to make sound decisions for your next vacation.
Machu picCU, PerU
We want you to stay healthy and whole during the coronavirus outbreak and beyond. Here are a few travel tips from the CDC:
Wash hands often
Cough into your elbow and sneeze into a tissue
Consult with a doctor before traveling when sick
Stay up-to-date on vaccinations
Avoid contact with people who are already sick
Avoid contact with animals while traveling
Be aware of latest travel advisories from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention and U.S. State Department
Check CDC Travel for latest guidance: cdc.gov/travel
In conclusion, our goal is to keep our current and potential clients informed. The Love and Leisure Boutique Travel Agency team has traveled to multiple destinations in 2020 and we continue to fulfill our passion and exploring amazing destinations in light of the cornavirus outbreak. We don’t want you to be anxious or afraid. Vacationing should always be an experience. We are here to help you plan your next vacation and create amazing memories!
Sources: cdc.gov, osha.gov, ustravel.gov, & who.int, https://www.forbes.com/sites/christopherelliott/2020/02/27/should-i-cancel-my-trip-because-of-coronavirus/
Writer: Chericka Johnson, Travel Advisor
Destination of the Month: Turks and Caicos
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WHY TURKS & CAICOS?
The only true way to experience the Turks and Caicos Islands is to experience each island in the entire chain of 40 islands and cays, all of which are almost as diverse as its people. From the main tourist center of Providenciales to the quiet and tranquil islands of North and Middle Caicos to the historic Capital Island of Grand Turk, there's so much to do and discover in paradise. Incredible beaches, crystal clear and warm ocean water, abundant marine life and beautiful tropical wetlands are yours to explore. Contact us for accommodations, group travel and destination weddings. We can book villas, resorts, excursions and transfers.
TOP 5 THINGS TO DO IN TURKS & CAICOS!
BEACHES
Beach on Providenciales has the upper hand. Due to consisting of broken down shells and coral, the sand in the Turks and Caicos is a measure above what’s found at the beaches in most other countries. Offering lush sea grass and brilliant coral reefs such as the Bight Reef and Smith’s Reef, come experience the luxurious beaches on your own. And remember, all Beaches in the Turks and Caicos are public.
CAVE SYSTEMS
Caves, sinkholes, blue holes and solution features can be found throughout the country, but are especially present on the Caicos Islands. Dry cave systems are typically the most interesting, and Middle Caicos has two dry systems that are open for tourism including Conch Bar Cave and the less-extensive Indian Cave.
DIVING & SNORKELING
Turks & Caicos have the third largest barrier reef in the world and countless spectacular wall dive sites. The islands sit on an underwater plateau that rises 10,000 feet up from the surrounding ocean floor. In many places, the transition from shallow to deep is obvious and impressive by the change in water color. Combined with the abundance of vibrant coral and sea life, it’s no wonder that Scuba Diving Magazine readers have voted the Turks and Caicos as having the best diving in the Caribbean.
ISLAND FISH FRY EVERY THURSDAY
Every Thursday from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM at Bight Park, the islands host over a dozen local food vendors, entertainers and cultural acts to create an evening of “all things TCI” that entices locals and visitors alike to experience an evening in the park in a fun, family style setting! Come experience the aroma of fresh, fish frying permeating the air, while visual treats abound with vats of boiling lobster and conch salad masters plying their craft.
HIKING
For those who simply want to enjoy the beautiful outdoors, the country’s remote and wild coastlines offer an amazing hiking setting. The central islands of Providenciales, Middle Caicos, East Caicos and South Caicos offer varied and spectacular environments to explore. The nature reserves and national parks in the Turks and Caicos are still being developed for tourism, so grab a guide to show you around.
Fall in Italy - Rome, Florence, Venice and Amalfi Coast
/Over the years, my bucket list has grown tremendously, but one country always remained at the top..ITALY! So I was over the moon when my best friend extended the invite for us to join their honeymoon/anniversary trip. 9 days of wine, pasta, gelato, cheese and pizza? Yes please!
Day 1 - 2: We kicked our trip off in Rome! After landing, we checked into a lovely boutique hotel in the Monti District, Princeps Boutique Hotel. It’s located in one of the oldest palaces in Rome. It’s centrally located to all of the major sites - Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, and many more. Since we were celebrating our 3 year anniversary, we were greeted with a nice bottle of Prosecco. Perfect start to any trip, right?
Since we only had two days in Rome, we jumped right into exploring. In hindsight, I wish that we added an extra day to take our time and sightsee without feeling rushed. We toured the Colosseum, Vatican, Sistine Chapel, St. Peters Basilica - all absolutely amazing experiences. Crowded? Yes, but definitely worth seeing. I would highly advise anyone to book a tour to see these sites. It allows for faster entry and the tour guides are so knowledgeable.
My favorite tour of all was a pasta making class that we took on our last night. The food was delicious! Do you see this beautiful bowl of Cacio e Pepe? I think I finished it in 5 minutes tops and don’t you dare judge.
Day 3 - 6: After walking 50,000+ steps in Rome, we were excited to relax on the coast. We took the train from Rome to Naples and then a private transport directly to Positano. The drive to Positano was an adventure. Beautiful views everywhere you turned, but hair pinning turns that would have even the best drivers on edge.
We checked into a gorgeous B&B right in the middle of town. It was such a charming place with the most amazing staff! They were so attentive to all of our needs. Each morning they served the best breakfast that we ate in all of Italy. I can still taste the stuffed croissants.
Positano is a lovely town, crowded and slightly touristy but still very romantic. We dined at Chez Black, Da Vincenzo, Le Tre Sorelle, and a few others. My favorite of all was La Tagliata! This restaurant is definitely a treat. The menu is preset, all of the vegetables are organic, wine is unlimited and the views are breathtaking.
Positano was our relaxing part of the trip. We just took it slow. Spent some time shopping, relaxing on the beach and just enjoying each others company.
On our last day, we took a boat over to Capri for the day and toured the island. If you’re interested, I would highly recommend booking with Capasecca Yacht Group.
Day 6- 8: After 4 days on the coast, we headed over to Florence. The next stop on our tour. Florence has always been on “must see” list and it did not disappoint! It’s something about the vibe of the city, it’s so romantic and enchanting. I instantly fell in love.
We decided to do an AirBnb here that was an adorable studio apartment. The host were very sweet & provided us with a ton of amazing recommendations! Email me if you are headed there and would like to find out more.
The highlight for me was a day trip to Tuscany. We visited 3 wineries where we sampled some of the best olive oil and red wine I’ve ever tasted! What a dream.
Day 8- 9: Our last stop was Venice. We checked into the Rosa Salva Hotel, a 10- 15 minute walk from Piazza San Marco & Rialto Bridge. It was a quaint boutique hotel located on a quiet side street. Lovely staff, modern rooms and a buffet breakfast that’s included.
Is Venice a tourist trap? Of course! But it’s one of those places you have to see at least once in your life. I mean the entire city actually is on water. We took a gondola ride down the canals, and stuffed our faces with more gelato than I care to talk about. Overall, our time in Italy was truly one of the best trips I’ve ever taken. If you’d like to know more, or would like to discuss planning your own Italian vacation, send me a message at briana@loveleisuretravel.com. I look forward to hearing from you.
A New Travel Perspective
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Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before.” – Anonymous
This big, beautiful world has so my places to visit, it will take a life time. If you want to explore and grow, this simple quote says it all. I crave new experiences, learning about people and cultures and I do that by going somewhere new at least once a year; if I’m lucky, I get to see a few more!
2019 was a year of change and growth. I was able to step away from a career of 14 years and take a sabbatical. During this time I traveled to Europe, Canada, the Caribbean and a few places in the US. Traveling gives you a new perspective on life. Ron, my husband and I traveled with one of our favorite couple friends in Europe last spring. We were literally in planes, trains, and automobiles 24/7 to visit as many cities in 7 days.
One of my not so favorite memories is lugging around this enormous suitcase- of course I overpack because I felt I needed to be prepared for any occasion! As I watch my friends effortlessly pull their carry on suitcase around all of these European cities- Zürich, Geneva, Lauterbrunnen, Cinque Terre, and Milan, I think to myself, why did I not pack smarter to jet set and move through these cities with various modes of transportation with ease?
Here are a few packing tips I learned for a fast paced, jam packed travel itinerary:
Use Compression bags for travel to save space in your luggage.
Don’t pack shoes for multiple occasions: only take 2 pair of shoes (daytime/nighttime).
Recycle your jeans and pair with a different blouse for a new look.
Use a packing list and stick to it :)
Leave the bulky clothes at home or wear them on the plane.
Needless to say I did not wear 50% of the clothes I packed. It’s safe to say, in the future I need to use a packing list and stick to it. I’m a big believer in laughing at yourself, so when it was all said and done I had to laugh at myself.
Some of the best moments were trying some delicious food and sweet treats. I love cheese so when I have some good cheese, I go all in. And let’s just say, I’ve never meet any cheese I don’t like. The best fondue I ever had was on this trip in Geneva.
Not only was the fondue amazing, the service at Restaurant Les Armures was exceptional. We walked by this seemingly popular restaurant and looked at the menu, it was definitely a winner for dinner. We were very excited we were able to accommodate us and seat us, although we did not have reservations. We shared a delicious meal and forgot about our suitcase woes.
Les Armures
I have adopted the growth mindset philosophy, you either win or you learn. Learning to pack light has been so liberating in my season of growth and change. When you travel, you grow in more ways than one. Now we can walk into our future with assurance knowing travel is about the experiences you will gain, not the clothes you think you will need that you probably won’t wear.
Let me know your travel tips in the comment section!
Writer: Chericka Johnson, Travel Advisor
Candice's Paris Recap
/Travel Diary- My Paris Trip
Transportation: We flew from Dulles in DC to Paris via Air France. While in Paris we used Uber 75% of the time and walked when we could.
Day 1
We dropped our bags off at Hotel 34B. It’s an Astotel Hotel. We really liked the fun decor and feel of the hotel. It was considered 3 star but it was modern, tasty breakfast, clean, staff super friendly, and right next to allllll the shopping like Galleries Lafayette.
More about Hotel 34B
AN ODE TO FRANCE- Discover the 34B, 3-star hotel paying tribute to France, near the Grands Boulevards, Galeries Lafayette and Printemps Haussmann. Paris 9th.
Stay in one of its 128 rooms, each decorated in an unusual style. Exceptional comfort with high quality, spacious 2-metre beds. Use the free WiFi to organise your days.
Enjoy a free breakfast (direct booking) with fresh and varied produce in the cosy lobby, then relax on the comfy sofas in the lounge. Travel guides and other books on France are at your disposal, to introduce you to the riches of the country and perhaps help you organise your trips.
Soft drinks and snacks are available at the open bar in the afternoon.
The attentive staff and warm atmosphere of the Hotel 34B will make your stay in Paris truly memorable!
We had Breakfast at Hardware Societe...DELICIOUS!!! You have to have breakfast there. Afterward, we explored and walked throughout the city and went to the catacombs (creepy and cool). We spent the rest of the evening at Galleries Lafayette which is a shopper's dream, especially if you're into designers/labels.
More about the Catacombs
“In the late eighteenth century, when major public health problems tied to the city’s cemeteries led to a decision to transfer their contents to an underground site. Paris authorities chose an easily accessible site that was, at the time, located outside the capital: the former Tombe-Issoire quarries under the plain of Montrouge. The first evacuations were made from 1785 to 1787 and concerned the largest cemetery in Paris, the Saints-Innocents cemetery.
The site was consecrated as the “Paris Municipal Ossuary” on April 7, 1786, and, from that time forward, took on the mythical name of “Catacombs”, in reference to the Roman catacombs, which had fascinated the public since their discovery. Starting in 1809, the Catacombs were opened to the public by appointment.”
Day 2
Eiffel Tower and the Louvre (that was plenty for one morning/afternoon). Went to dinner and found a hip hop lounge, Le Comptoir General. Dinner was at Le Coincidence. Very yummy. They speak English there as well.
Day 3
Macaron Cooking Class at Lefoodist and Dinner at Pink Mama. The truffle pasta was AMAZING. Explored some more and just enjoyed the city.
Day 4- Enjoyed our hotel breakfast ( I still dream about those scrambled eggs) and flew back. 3 days was plenty.
