#gorgeousadriatic     #adriaticseaside     #amazingbeaches     #goodbeaches     #prettiesttowns     #italiangreat     #adriaticcoast     #italysmainland     #southernitaly     #resorttowns     #scenictowns     #finestvillages     #salento peninsula     #amazingcuisine     #surprisingpuglia    ​

Nearby Sandals Royal Caribbean is slightly farther away from the airport, so the noise of jets is not as bad, but you are still easily within range (a few minutes) of Sandals Montego Bay and the airport there. It’s here you will discover Jamaica’s only resort with a Private offshore Island all it’s own and it’s romantic authentic outdoor Thai Restaurant.  Sandals Royal Caribbean is also home to Incredible Over the Water Private Butler Villas with Infinity Pools. Yes, Maldives and Tahiti style without having to travel hours to get to. ​

Sandals Royal Plantation is the All Suite, All Butler, All Oceanview and Sandals Boutique property in Jamaica. Boasting two private beaches and luxurious like Afternoon Tea on the Terrace. All suites are serviced by Butlers who are trained by The Guild of Professional English Butlers. Full exchange privilege's make it the best resort in the region being you can stay at one and play at the others. Its reputation is it is one of Jamaica's most exquisite resorts perched on a bluff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. ​

Not to be missed is Sandals White Coast who boast "Jamaica’s first resort to feature one of the most unique suites in the Caribbean, our signature luxury Rondoval Swim-up Suites nestled at the heart of Sandals South Coast’s newest village featuring zero-entry swim up access and outdoor Tranquility Soaking Tub™ for two." Their motto is " Inspired by water, Surrounded by beauty". It's roughly 75 minutes from the Sangster Airport and of course comes with Sandals transfers which make it a pleasurable experience to arrive and depart. ​

You could divide your time up between different resorts, or even split it across both islands. No matter which Sandals Resort you are staying at in Jamaica, choose an All-Inclusive Package which will include fine dining in up to 16 restaurants at each resort, plus all meals and snacks, premium liquors, and wines at up to 11 bars in each resort, as well as an included bar in each room. There is not just one Sandals Jamaica All-Inclusive Resort that is going to work best for you and your needs. ​

​#inclusiveresorts    #sandalsresorts    #luxurioussandals #travelbetter   #jamaicanresorts    #inclusivesandals    #jamaicaresort    #bestresort    #bestbeaches    #betterbeaches    #sandalsjamaica    #nearbysandals    #sandalsroyal       #sandalsproperty    #inclusivepackage    #sandalsmontego   #travelwithgraceandstyle

As a Travel Advisor I have been to some pretty spectacular places in the world.  I get to learn about so many different regions. All of them have their own beauty and appeal.   The Italian Lakes region has been on my list for some time.  I have been wanting to visit to discover for myself everything I have been hearing about the region.   I am sure most of you feel the same, yet it is hard to travel everywhere.  There just doesn't seem to be enough time.   So, if you are planning your visit to Italy consider the Italian Lakes region where you just might discover a Foodies paradise.  


​Visiting the Italian Lakes regions of Northern Italy you will discover it has a charm all it's own.   It's where you can immerse yourself in one-of-a-kind experiences and gorgeous accommodations.  I am thrilled to share what I have learned with you. 
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​Lake Como marries Italian Hospitality and unparalleled natural beauty.  It's also conveniently located --just a 90 minute car ride from Milan. Surrounded by green valleys.

Lake Como is also a food lover's paradise. On Lake Como, you can eat risotto by a waterfront ristorante or enjoy a private tasting with a family of cheesemakers! Many food artisans here preach a "zero kilometer" philosophy --using ONLY ingredients cultivated within the surrounding 1 kilometer! Como glistens. Como enchants. Como makes the mouth water. 

​ I'm delighted to share with you 3 Must-Try Foods on Lake Como:

​Antigua best known as the "Heart of the Caribbean" and truly one of the most beautiful Islands in the world. This is one of the best vacations to one of the lesser traveled Islands by US citizens. Vacations in Antigua should be on everyone who loves the Caribbean radar.   We had the good fortune to visit in August.  

Located in the beautiful West Indies.  The Island is 14 miles long and 11 miles wide with its highest point being Mount Obama at 1319 ft. Antigua is one of the two major islands Barbuda being the other that make up this Caribbean nation and the largest English speaking of the Leeward islands. 

It is here in English Harbor that Admiral Horatio Nelson in 1780 made his base. When he sailed into Antigua and the Dockyard is named after him.   Nelson’s Dockyard has been fully restored by Antigua to its resplendent beauty to include a marina and a Dockyard Museum. 

Its Royal Naval heritage is not forgotten Its rough, rocky coastline is a favorite of Sailors as it creates this wonderful sandy beaches just waiting to be discovered.  

​One of the best things about being a Travel Agent is our ability to be able to travel to see the various destinations and review hotels and resorts.

​In August I was invited by the Antigua tourist board to visit the Island. I readily accepted as I had never been to Antigua, and I book a number of Caribbean Islands vacations. It is an added benefit to me to have been to the Island and or Resort I am suggesting because I then have experienced this myself.  Now of course this is not always possible due to time constraints. So, when available and it works out, I will travel to the destinations and of course experience what my own travel clients will. Except, instead of relaxing on the beach I am at 5-6 different properties in one day from 9 am to 9 PM. Sounds glamorous right?  Even though it's not as glamorous as I make it look on Instagram it does help me when my clients want to book that extra special Antigua honeymoon.  

​What does an Antigua Vacation or an All-Inclusive Vacation offer.

​Let us start with 365 beaches, yes 365 beaches one for everyday of the year!    Imagine turquoise, emerald waters with mild temperatures year around.  With all those beaches you will find diving, snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, speedboats, sailing, day cruises and so much more

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For those hiking enthusiast do not miss hiking to the Lookout Trail Shirley Heights. You will find some of the most amazing views on the entire Island. 

​For Sailing enthusiasts, the Island Antigua host to one of the top regattas in the world Antigua Sailing week. Also, annually you will find a Charter Yacht show where you can inspect some of the worlds most incredible charter Yachts.  A marine trade show is also organized.   

Antigua all inclusive vacations can also include Tennis, golfing, bikes, hiking, and bird watching, and even pickle ball in some of the resorts.

​There are many activities for your vacation getaway on Antigua and one of my favorites is laying under an umbrella watching the waves roll in while sipping a cocktail.

​Getting to Antigua is only a flight away.   Flights for your Antigua Vacation are readily available out of many US airports. Your most direct flights coming from places like New York, Miami, Philly most US airlines operate connecting flights from all major cities

​Where to stay in Antigua there are many options from All Inclusive to semi all inclusive to even a condo or villa style stay.  For this article I want to share one of my favorites stays of the island.  

​Perched over the picture-perfect post card view of English Harbor sitting on hilltop sits The Inn at English Harbour. As you gaze out over the incredible view of the Caribbean Ocean sipping on Bourbon Old Fashion exquisitely prepared by Wesley the bartender. Who created my old fashion with such a pleasure and what I recognized as pride of his Island home.  You realize you have arrived. This, this is it.... Your little portion of heaven on earth.

The Inn at English Harbor is a small boutique property blending perfectly it is colonial design with present day comfort.  A perfect mix of old and new for an extraordinarily relaxing stay.
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It's rooms are tastefully decorated in classic off white colors mixing in natural elements and a touch of elegance with mahogany furniture.  Each room faces the picturesque backdrop of manicured lawns and gardens and a beautiful view of the ocean.  You only need to open your doors to walk out on your terrace or veranda.

The resort does have a few rooms that open up directly onto the beach.  I really want to try one of these on my next visit to the Island.   Perhaps on a wedding anniversary.   These rooms were just a little smaller then the main building areas but were delightful as they sat directly on the beach. 

You will not find competition for beach chairs here. You will discover Romance and Adventure amidst a spectacular lush green landscape as you imbibe your favorite Island creation. All the while sitting on the white sand beach gazing at the emerald, blue Caribbean water.
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This is not a place to be rushed or in a hurry this is relaxation at it’s finest.   You will not find night clubs, constant activities, or many of the features of a large property.   You will find a spa to be pampered in, two wonderful restaurants, a gym, two tennis courts, and water activities such as kayaking.  ​

​You can also take a water taxi to Nelson’s Dockyard and discover the many restaurants and shops available.  It very conveniently will pick you up and drop you off during your stay at certain times during the day.

​This is a place to discover the beauty of Antigua, this is a place to unwind, relax, and enjoy the emerald, blue waters of the Caribbean as you have your morning coffee at the restaurant overlooking the harbor.  This is your own little slice of heaven all wrapped up in your own Antigua vacation.

​If you are planning a Caribbean vacation, I would definitely recommend a Antigua vacation you will not be dissapointed.  After all it is the “Heart of the Caribbean”.   

​If you enjoyed this article do not hesitate to subscribe.  If you would like help planning your own Antigua Vacation or an All Inclusive Vacation please reach out as I would love to help you.   Just click the link below and we can get started.   

With Halloween season upon us, is there a better time to discover Scotland’s world of witches?  Scotland for Halloween is where you can uncover tales of alleged witches some old and some new, listen to stories and tales of mythical creatures, witches, and ghost that have made a lasting impression on Scotland’s turbulent history.

Visit Scotland has even created a Scotland’s Witches Trail a map filled with places of incredible scenery and wildlife.   You can delve into folklore, explore centuries old memorials and haunted attractions.

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Why not experience Halloween in Scotland filled with incredible scenery, spectacular history and discover the old legends yourself?
Click the link in our bio to start planning your trip to Scotland.
Follow us @travelwithgraceandstyle for all things travel
 
#travelbetter #travelwithgraceandstyle #scottishwitches #halloween #witchtrailmap #visitscotland #halloweenplaces #witchesinscotland #legends #folklore #traveltoexplore #traveltodiscover #discoverscotland #wheretonext

Travel with Grace and Style is an Italy travel specialist and when
traveling to Italy there are 10 top things you should know.  There are many more as this list could go on but these tips will not only save you time but may help you enjoy the experience.   We travel to Italy almost yearly and enjoy sharing our discoveries.​

​First on our list of Top 10 things to know before you travel to Italy is buy Tickets Prior..... If you do anything my top suggestion is to buy your tickets early and prior to your travel dates.  This insures you are not standing in line waiting with the rest of the masses.  Those who procrastinated or thought they would just wait and show up and buy their tickets in line are often shocked to see the lines.  Save yourself and book ahead.

​Off Season Travel.....Italy is my favorite travel destination along with the million other's who visit her yearly.   In the height of the summer season it is almost packed beyond comfort.   Travel off season if you can.  In the late spring time the weather is just starting to be lovely but you still may need a sweater.  Fall is often beautiful in Italy.   Winter the crowds are thinner and unless it is during Christmas holidays your experience will be much less crowded.

​Weather....Italy has decent weather any time of the year. Although summer in Rome in August can be brutal according to most,  many Italians head out of the cities during this time.  Winter yes it can snow, especially in places like The Dolomites and Lake Como and even Rome but the weather is definitely doable.   The Average temperature in Rome in February is 52/42 not too bad for a visit.  Rainiest month tends to be November for Rome.

​There are very few toilet seats...…  Yes in and throughout Italy there is a common known problem of toilet seats or the lack there of in public facilities.  I will leave it at this.

Coffee... Often enjoyed al banco or at the bar with Cappuccino in the morning, a macchiato for an afternoon pick me up and an espresso after dinner.   Quick pointer milky coffee in the morning only.  ​

Breakfast....is often a lite meal consisting of small pastry and cappuccino of course "al banco". ​

​Sundays......in Italy are for family.  A day spent relaxing and having brunch after Mass.

​Transit... Italy has a very good transport infrastructure.  The rail network is extensive, especially in the north, and it includes a high speed rail network that joins the major cities of Italy from Naples through northern cities such as Milan and Turin.

​Pick pockets will be in all the tourist sites.  They are good.  Keep watch and always keep your belongings close.  Just as you would do in any other major city.

​Hotel...….The hotel is not just a place to lay your head.  It's not just a place to sleep.  The hotel is part of the experience.   The place you return to after a long day viewing the amazing city and countryside and should never be just a place to sleep.  It should be part of the experience, part of the journey, and part of your incredible visit to Italy.

​So please if you are planning a visit to Italy I would love to assist you.  Italy is one of  Teresa @ Travel with Grace and Style specialities.  My own personal knowledge is fueled by my passion for Italy itself.

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Our trips are specifically designed down to the finest detail around your tastes and interests. We will listen to what you want and then carefully design an individual trip to match, working within your budget and with an absolute commitment to quality. We have true experts for each and every one of our destinations,  our expertise comes from having traveled to the destination and securing specialized partners in each of our selected destinations.  Our curator will design a trip around you, show you the highlights in a different light, and introduce you to places and experiences that others might miss.  Everyone has a different style and the experiences we curate are exactly designed with that in mind.  From group travel, to individual, to faith based we have a commitment to excellence.  I would love to help you discover Italy just fill out the form.

Austria -
Continuing down the Danube, you’ll next stop at the scenic town of Melk, which is celebrated for its magnificent Benedictine Abbey. The abbey contains the tomb of Saint Coloman of Stockerau and the remains of several members of the House of Babenberg, Austria's first ruling dynasty.  If you’d like something more active to do, you can join a guided bike tour that takes you through the UNESCO-designated Wachau Valley; or go on a walking tour along Dürnstein’s cobblestone streets to the famed Baroque church tower, Stiftskirche. Later in the day, set sail through the vineyard rich Wachau Valley. (B,L,D)
 
No trip to Austria would be complete without a stop in Vienna, “The City of Waltzes.” Vienna is a treasure trove and your tour showcases its regal splendors, including the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs. Conclude your tour in the designated historic city center and visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral. For a more active exploration, take a guided bike ride to Klosterneuburg Monastery.

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Hungary -
 
The city of Budapest is known as the Queen of the Danube, and your tour begins with a visit to the Great Market Hall. The remainder of this tour takes you to both the Buda (hilly) and the Pest (flat) sides of the river. Alternatively, hike up to Castle Hill for breathtaking views of the city. Cap the day off with an illumination cruise. (B,L,D)
 
Continue your trek through Hungary with a pitstop in Puszta. Known as the Great Hungarian Plain, tour a genuine Hungarian csárda (farm) run by world-champion carriage-drivers. Afterward, be treated to an unforgettable performance of horsemanship and then experience the Hungarians’ warm hospitality, along with a traditional lunch complete with authentic goulash. (B,L,D)
 
From Puszta, set sail to Mohács where you’ll enjoy a scenic morning cruise past a town sprinkled with magnificent churches, including the 18th-century Baroque Protestant church, the Roman Catholic church (1776), the Serbian Greek Orthodox church, the votive church (1926), and the Avas church with its bell tower.  Next, you’ll cruise to Pécs, a city founded more than 2,000 years ago by the Romans. In Pécs, you’ll find a city filled with historic architecture including the Christian Necropolis; St. Peter’s Basilica, the city’s main Catholic cathedral along with its catacombs; and Széchenyi Square, the heart of Old Town Pécs. For wine connoisseurs, there’s the Szekszárd wine region, one of the oldest red-wine-growing areas in Hungary, established more than 2,000 years ago.

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Croatia -
 
The beautiful Baroque Croatian city of Vukovar is situated at the banks of the Vuka and Danube Rivers in the region of Srijem/Syrmia.  Known as the “hero town” for the valor of brave Croatian civilians and volunteers during the 1991 war with Serbia, your city tour will include important war landmarks such as Ovčara Memorial and Eltz Castle. Or, you can opt to go wine tasting in Ilok, a center of wine production since Roman times, where you’ll sample its famous Grasevina, Traminac and Frankovka wines. Back on board, cruise to Novi Sad, sometimes called the “Serbian Athens.” Discover Novi Sad on a walking tour to Dunavski Park and through Stari Grad, the Old Town center. If you prefer a more active exploration, join a guided biking or hiking tour. During the evening, visit Petrovaradin Fortress. (B,L,D)

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Serbia -
 
Explore Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, on a city tour that includes the Kalemegdan Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Temple of St. Sava. Later, choose from three intriguing excursions. Visit the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Serbian Royal Family; and then tour the House of Flowers, the mausoleum of Marshal Tito, who became the first President of Yugoslavia. Or enjoy a taste of the region by sampling Serbian plum brandy, Šlivovitz, and delicious local delights at the Quburich Distillery. For those wishing a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)

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Romania -
 
Enjoy a full day of scenic cruising as you pass through the Iron Gates, one of Europe’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. At the Iron Gates, the Danube narrows as it winds through a series of magnificent gorges between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains.
 

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Bulgaria –
 
Explore Vidin, one of Bulgaria’s oldest cities, and surrounding areas with a choice of excursions. Discover Baba Vida Fortress, the largest preserved medieval castle in Bulgaria. Continue on to Belogradchik, one of Bulgaria’s natural wonders, where you can hike around its most spectacular rock formations. Alternatively, visit a local home for a demonstration of traditional Bulgarian yogurt and Banitsa, a pastry you will also get to make. You also have the choice to bike through Vidin and to the castle. (B,L,D)
 
Visit Bulgaria’s ancient capital, Veliko Tarnovo, with its medieval fortress and multiple orthodox temples. You can opt instead to go to Rousse, known for its 19th- and 20th-century Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo architecture, and then afterward visit the Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo with frescos revealing exceptional artistry of 14th-century paintings. (B,L,D)

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guest blogger

We all have the castaway dream: alone on an island paradise, living freely, at peace, at one with nature and the ones we love. You can experience this in real life at exclusive island destinations across the world, where solitude and pure escapism also encompass indulgent service and five-star luxury.
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Remote Caribbean Escapes.  A private picnic or invigorating coconut scrub on a deserted stretch of beach; a rainforest hike to a series of breathtaking waterfalls; combing small villages to find handmade crafts; napping in a thatched bure, listening to the rolling ocean, faint chirps of exotic birds and gentle breezes fluttering through palm trees overhead. Whatever you dream of, these tranquil island getaways will truly take you a world away.

​PETIT ST. VINCENT
Petit St. Vincent, an idyllic oasis in the Grenadines, is the definition of a hideaway. This tiny, privately owned island resort resides on an islet bordered by colorful coral reefs and powder sugar-soft beaches. Here you’ll enjoy unsurpassed privacy and relish in the complete sense of isolation. Enjoy the views from your private one or two bedroom oceanview or beach front villa. Want service? You need only to hoist a signal flag outside your cottage. Relax and sip a delightful cocktail at the beachside bar or select a bottle of Champagne or wine from the well-stocked wine cellar. Visit the nearby dive center, managed by Jean-Michel Cousteau, where naturalists and marine biologists offer boundless insights into the local marine life. 

PINE CAY
​Set on the private island of Pine Cay, The Meridian Club offers 13 private rooms along a stunning two mile beach. This jewel of the Turks and Caicos is ideal for those in search of the timeless spirit of the old West Indies. A sanctuary for beach lovers who want to get away from it all, the enchanting blend of coral reefs and calm bays creates the ideal conditions to plunge into the inviting waters. Spy vibrant-colored coral and fish on dives and, in-season, witness majestic whales as they pass close to the island. Year-round light breezes also make near-perfect conditions for sailing, windsurfing and parasailing.

CAYO ESPANTO
​For the ultimate in secluded oceanfront living, Cayo Espanto is a private four-acre islet near Ambergris Caye, Belize. Here, everything is quiet, evoking a pervasive sense of calm. With only 7 beachfront villas, this is a true island paradise. Wherever you stand, sit or lie on this property, you’re rewarded with postcard-perfect ocean views. On the west side of the island, you can take in the fiery warm glow of spectacular sunsets, then drift off to a blissful slumber before waking to the warmth of another glorious day.

​THE EXUMAS
​With an exotic collection of 365 cays and islands to call its own — many of which are uninhabited or underdeveloped — the Exumas are like a smaller collection of islands within the Bahamas. Daily diversions in this idyllic island system includes hiking past plantation ruins, pirate lairs and a massive whale skeleton at Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park; basking in the sun on Tropic of Cancer beach, one of the country’s most gorgeous stretches of sand and sea; exploring nearby uninhabited islands while passing by private island retreats owned by celebrities and the rich & famous; and, for any Instagrammer worth his or her salt, getting your picture taken while swimming with friendly pigs at Big Major’s Cay with a private luxury day trip from Ray and Justin at Exuma Watersports. Exclusive accommodation options range from luxury all-inclusive in a beachfront villa at Sandals Emerald Bay – complete with world class golf & spa; a private villa rental at Fowl Cay Resort – a private island; or escape to your own private island at Musha Cay and the Islands of Copperfield Bay with luxury guest houses and magical escapes.

​HOLBOX ISLAND
​About a 45-minute ferry ride off the northern tip of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Holbox Island hosts the world’s largest known congregation of whale sharks in the summer months and thriving populations of native pink flamingos year-round. Beyond nature, the island — completely void of cars and most other reminders of globalization — flourishes with a small boho-chic downtown, wide swathes of quiet beaches, mom-and-pop-run beachfront bungalows and colorful beach bars. Go for the local favorite lobster pizza, a signature dish at restaurants across the island, and settle in to boutique luxury accommodations like beachfront favorite Casa Las Tortugas.

NEVIS
​If it’s Old World charm and romance you’re after, then Nevis, the smaller sibling to nearby St Kitts, is the place. This compact but perfectly formed gem centered by Nevis Peak, a lofty, dormant volcano, covers just 36 square miles and has been luring starry-eyed couples for as long as anyone can remember. Life moves slowly on Nevis, aided and abetted by beguiling boutique resorts with dreamy suites, several of which are centered on old plantation properties amid manicured grounds. When you’re ready to venture away from your resort, romantic activities range from sunset horse rides along the beach to watersports at Oualie Beach, where Nevis Yacht Charters offer private tours. For the ultimate escape on Nevis, the Four Seasons Resort is a small, colonial style secluded beachfront retreat offering golf, spa, sailing school and over the top luxury.

​VIRGIN GORDA
​Sailors know the British Virgin Islands as legendary cruising grounds. Here, in places like Virgin Gorda, Peter’s Island and Tortola, you’ll find sheltered marinas with good anchorages and small hotels popular with yachters. Even better, you can sail to these various islands without going outside the reefs into the ocean. But you’ll be hard-pressed to find a reason to continue on from Virgin Gorda. The allure comes from the almost primitive feel of this 10-mile long island: There’s little shopping, few restaurants outside of the hotels, and the only major attraction is a snorkeling spot called The Baths, where rock grottos on the shoreline form natural pools. Sounds like heaven, doesn’t it? Ready to go . . . check out the unique mix of small eclectic luxury beach and marina resorts including Little Dix Bay, Scrub Island; for the ultimate in privacy and luxury Richard Branson’s Necker Island retreat; and for a truly unique and personalized escape consider a fully staffed bareboat charter on a 58’ luxury catamaran from The Moorings.

​ANTIGUA
This tiny sun-kissed island-nation is host to an improbable 365 white sand beaches – one for each day of the year. Living history unfolds at Nelsons’ Dockyard National Park, named after former resident Admiral Horatio Nelson. The restored naval dockyard dates to the 17th century and today hosts Antigua Sailing Week, one of the Caribbean’s most anticipated spring events. For the brave at heart, zipline high atop the rainforest canopy. Brag-worthy catches tempt fishermen offshore, and dive outfitters take full advantage of the scores of vibrantly colored tropical fish along the reefs of Dickenson Bay. As an added bonus, Antigua’s V.C. Bird International Airport, a hub for small aircraft, offers multiple daily flights to both St. Barth's and St. Kitts & Nevis, making this the perfect jumping-off point for a true Caribbean adventure. For a true Caribbean getaway look to these luxury tipped exclusive island retreats: all-inclusive luxury in a unique rondoval villa, with private plunge pools and butler service, at Sandals Grande Antigua; Hermitage Bay an authentic Caribbean boutique resort; Carlisle Bay, a haven of seclusion and relaxation; and Jumby Bay Island, a private island resort set 10 minutes off the coast of Antigua.
Ready to find your island paradise? We can help you navigate to islands across the Caribbean including these lesser known private getaways. Contact your travel professional today.

​You’ve ambled Amalfi.
You’ve ventured to Venice.
You’ve feasted in Florence.
You’ve roamed through Rome.
You’re not what we’d call a newbie to Italy. You’ve tasted Chianti in Tuscany. You’ve perused Pompeii with a private guide. You’ve gazed at the Blue Grotto off Capri’s coast. With so much Italy under your belt, the usual sights — Michelangelo’s David in Florence or St. Mark’s Square in Venice, — don’t compel you like they once did.
What’s left to savor in Italy for a return traveler? What delicious Italian destinations are hiding just off the beaten track? One of my favorite fall escapes in Italy is Umbria.  Visiting Umbria is easy as it's located just 90 minutes from the center of Rome, Umbria feels like you’re stepping back in time. Driving the countryside here, you’ll see medieval hamlets rising from the distance.

CHOCOLATE-TASTING TOUR (PERUGIA)
 
Sweet lovers from across the globe flock to the hilltop town of Perugia each October for the annual Eurochocolate Festival. But, sugar fiends in-the-know skip the festival’s long lines and crowded streets — visiting the town before or after the cocoa-fueled festivities. Perugia’s stone streets are home to both boutique chocolatiers and the world-famous Perugina chocolate company. With a local guide, travelers can go behind-the-scenes at family-run chocolate shops — observing how cocoa beans are transformed into that most decadent of dolci.
 
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SALAMI & CHEESE MAKING (NORCIA)
Not far from Perugia, you will find the quaint countryside of Norcia. This area is famed throughout Italy and the world for its porky products — including salami, copa, prosciutto, and capocollo. While some are cured using nothing but salt and air, others are seasoned with local wine or pine juniper berries. Italians rarely eat salami on its own, preferring to pair it with a cheese. Food-loving travelers can spend the day farm-hopping in Umbria, enjoying a tasting of pecorino here and a nibble of prosciutto there — enjoyed, naturally, with a glass or two of local wine.

LACK TRUFFLE HUNT & PASTA 
 
Far from the stone streets of Umbria’s towns lies one of the region’s most prized foods — the black truffle. Aided by specially-trained dogs, capable of sniffing out truffles that grow underground, you can hunt this famed fungus in Umbria’s lovely woods. After a brisk walk in the forest, you return to our guide’s rustic farm — with a bounty of truffles in tow. Once at the farm, you’ll make pasta by hand with the truffle hunter’s wife. Your sauce? You guessed it: freshly shaved truffles.

​WINE, WINE, WINE
 
Grapes have been grown in Umbria since Roman times. Driving from town to town here, you’ll pass some of the most scenic wine country in Italy — dotted with hilltop towns and rolling vineyards. While the tannin-rich reds are largely made with Sangiovese grape, the whites from the Orvieto area are fruity-but-dry. Less well known to tourists than Tuscany, Umbria boasts countless family-operated wineries. In fact, you can enjoy tastings in Umbria’s private cellars — hearing about the history of wine production in this region from the vineyard owners themselves!

Which European escape are you craving these days? I’m here to take the stress out of trip-planning, helping you to experience the Europe locals love.  Hit the Contact Me and lets get to planning.  ​

You have arrived!  You made it to Rome.  Now what do you do?  There are so many things to see and do in Rome how do you choose.  You don't you plan wisely.   This will help you discover the top 4 hidden gems in Rome.  Of course it is our own opinion.  Read on to discover a little more about each destination in Rome.   The you go out and discover them for yourself and let us know what you think.

​PIZZA BY THE COLOSSEUM
Whether it’s your first or fourteenth visit to Rome, viewing the Colosseum never ceases to impress.  In its hay day, this stone stadium could seat 50,000 spectacles for live battles and gladiator matches.  With my help, you can enjoy a private tour inside the Colosseum with skip-the-line tickets.  After your immersion in ancient history, you’ll be hungry for a taste of Rome.  Nearby, I recommend Li Rioni Pizzeria – hidden on a non-touristy side street just a 5 minutes’ walk from the main ruins.  Be sure to order here a wood-fired pizza, tomato-crowned bruschetta and the creamy house tiramisu!  

​VILLA BORGHESE
Not far from the famous Spanish Steps, you’ll find a green jewel in the heart of historic Rome – the Villa Borghese Gardens.  Built by the noble Borgia family (including a pope!) atop a former vineyard in 1605, the Villa Borghese Gardens were the largest green space built in Rome since ancient times. From this vast and manicured park, you can also access the Villa Borghese gallery – housing Renaissance masterpieces from artists such as Caravaggio and Titian. Bring art history to life here with a private visit alongside an English-speaking guide.  

​JEWISH QUARTER
Rome is home to many sacred sites – including St. Peter’s tomb and the Vatican. It also boasts one of Europe’s oldest Jewish communities, which reside principally in the city’s scenic Jewish Quarter.  In addition to vaunting kosher-friendly carbonara, this quiet cobblestoned quarter also houses some spectacular ruins – including Teatro Marcello. This theater dates back to 13BC and resembles the Colosseum (minus the crowds). Columns and remains of temples are scattered around this open-air theater.  After wandering the Jewish Quarter’s back streets, walk to the nearby Isola Tiberina (Tiber Island) for a gelato at Tiberino Gelateria. 

TRASTEVERE
Rome’s stunning Trastevere quarter is located on the far side of the Tiber River – easily accessed on foot by crossing one of the city’s scenic bridges.  Boasting cobblestone alleyways, Renaissance palaces and ivy-clad buildings, Trastevere bustles with local charm during the day and at night. It’s also home to some of the city’s most authentic Roman ristorante – including Trattoria Da Teo, Pizzeria Ai Marmi and Da Enzo al 29.
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