Camargue: Off the Beaten Path in Provence
There is a slice of Provence, off the beaten path, that offers a surprising twist from the classic lavender fields, towering cypress and medieval sand stone villages capping the mountaintops. Camargue is more about white horses, flamingos, marsh lands, salt beds, and relaxed resorts allowing for sunkissed lounging poolside. We met the white horses upon our arrival in the marshlands of Camargue and Mr. C.T and Sebastien made new friends immediately.
The white Horses of Camargue
There is a slice of Provence, off the beaten path, that offers a surprising twist from the classic lavender fields, towering cypress and medieval sand stone villages capping the mountaintops. Camargue is more about white horses, flamingos, marsh lands, salt beds, and relaxed resorts allowing for sunkissed lounging poolside. We met the white horses upon our arrival in the marshlands of Camargue and Mr. C.T and Sebastien made new friends immediately.
Following our friendly greeting from these stately creatures we headed to Le Mas de la Fougue for a relaxing stay. Our sunny suite had a private terrace that opened directly to the pool deck with lounge chairs perfect for a dip or sipping a citrus infused sangria. Sublime!
The pace of life in Camargue slowed us down almost instantly.
The sunsets are golden in this slice of Provence.
A tour of our ‘Patio Suite’
The fresh fare at La Table de Marius was beyond delicious. We enjoyed the local delicacies and creative infusions prepared by the inspiring chef, Denis Gamard. Service was friendly and impeccable. Each dish was a work of art!
“Head to western Europe’s largest delta, where the Rhône River meets the Mediterranean Sea, and you’ll find a lesser known side of Provence. The Camargue spreads like a fan from the ancient Roman city of Arles, and in its folds lie green rice paddies, rose-colored salt flats, grass-filled marshes, and wide, windswept beaches. Nearly 400 species of birds call it home, as do prized black bulls and indigenous horses tended by gardians, the local cowboys who bolster the region’s wild-west reputation. “The Camargue is a mosaic of color, light, and mood,” says resident Frédéric Lamouroux, director of the Ornithological Park of Pont de Gau. “A tableau of land and water, wildlife and passionate people, it’s like nowhere else in France.””
For more on the Camargue here. To book your next trip to France contact Curated Travel.
Thank you to Sebastien, Creative Destinations and Le Mas de la Fougue for the welcoming and relaxing stay.
Curated Hotels: Our Stay in Tuscan Luxury at Castel Monastero in the Heart of Chianti
It may be just a quick view, or an image, that stays in your mind. I spotted vibrant images of Castel Monastero when they first opened as a boutique resort and I jumped at the chance to visit when offered. Mr. C.T. and I spent two nights immersed in Tuscan luxury at Castel Monastero last fall. Days were spent exploring the dappled beauty of winding roads adorned with vineyards, discovering foodie gems, wine tasting at a local winery and getting acquainted with the locals. Evenings spent enjoying Michelin star dining at Contrada and these glimmering sunsets from the terrace.
It may be just a quick view, or an image, that stays in your mind. I spotted vibrant images of Castel Monastero when they first opened as a boutique resort and I jumped at the chance to visit when offered.
Mr. C.T. and I spent two nights immersed in Tuscan luxury at Castel Monastero last fall. Days were spent exploring the dappled beauty of winding roads adorned with vineyards, discovering foodie gems, wine tasting at a local winery and getting acquainted with the locals. Evenings were spent enjoying Michelin star dining at Contrada and these glimmering sunsets from the terrace.
Castel Monastero is located in an ancient monastery near Siena in Tuscany. Known for it’s Michelin star dining, rustic luxe decor and stellar wellness and spa experiences, Castel Monastero is the perfect getaway, off the beaten path, in Tuscany.
HISTORY OF CASTEL MONASTERO
“The origins of Castel Monastero are lost in the history of Medieval Tuscany. The castle is mentioned for the first time, under the name of Sarna, in 1044. Afterwards, from 1050, it is cited more and more often with the name of Monastero, in connection with nearby Berardenga Abbey.
From the early years of the 12TH century to at least the beginning of the 14th, it was home to a branch of the Berardenghi family and in 1202 it belonged to the Commune of Siena administration system.
It was besieged but without success by the Florentines in 1208 and conquered in 1270 by Guido di Montfort who used it as a an outpost against the city of Siena. Bought by the noble Sienese Chigi Saracini family, it became their country house, a place designated for hunting and harvesting the fruit of the vines in the castle territories.
At the end of an accurate restoration process aiming at reinstating its ancient splendour, it is today ready to welcome our guests.
Almost ten centuries of history await you there.” - Castel Monastero
A tour of our rustic luxe suite at Castel Monastero
A view of our suite at Castel Monastero
The inviting pool at Castel Monastero
Dinner at Contrada, a Michelin Guide restaurant and a true foodie dining experience.
“An 11th-century walled hamlet surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, Castel Monastero transports guests to another place and time — that is, one with a transformative spa and much-touted restaurant. The 74 individually appointed guestrooms and suites are rustically elegant, and the spa offers personalized programs to revitalize and detox. The ancient wine cellar offers more relaxed repasts. Go bike riding, play golf or polo, join the kitchen team for an Italian cooking class or take a hot-air balloon ride over the Tuscan hills.”
Our thanks to our friend, Graziella Arba, for arranging this stay for us. Thanks for the staff for making us feel so welcomed.
To learn more about Castel Monastero, Virtuoso Amenities and upgrades, and to book online.
2019 Virtuoso Amenities
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Complimentary buffet breakfast for up to two in room guests
Welcome in room amenity Castello di Monastero Wine
$100 USD equivalent Resort/Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
For stays of 4 nights or more, one complimentary 3 courses lunch in our Tuscan restaurant La Cantina for up to 2 guest
To book a stay at Castel Monastero contact me at Curated Travel.
Curated Hotel: A VIP Visit to the Luxurious Ritz-Carlton Kapalua on Maui
During our recent getaway to Maui, we had the pleasure of spending the day at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua. It was impressive to be greeted with, "Mrs. Lindstrom, we've been expecting you" as we drove up to the stately entrance lined with pots of fresh orchids, swaying palms, breezy island furnishings and the sound of softly falling water.
During our recent getaway to Maui, we had the pleasure of spending the day at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua. It was impressive to be greeted with, "Mrs. Lindstrom, we've been expecting you" as we drove up to the stately entrance lined with pots of fresh orchids, swaying palms, breezy island furnishings and the sound of softly falling water.
I was fortunate to be meeting with Tori Tenorio, general sales manager, who gave Scott and me an insider's tour of the expansive property and luxurious suites. The entire decor scheme has recently been refreshed with a luxurious, tropical vibe of natural woods, richly textured furnishings and art pieces. The flower arrangements, as usual for the Ritz-Carlton brand, are extraordinary.
When the hotel was in the pre-construction phase, an ancient burial ground was discovered near the beach. Rather than relocate the sacred grounds, as is often the practice, the brand chose to change the plans for the beachfront resort and left the burial grounds intact to honor those who came before. This was a highly respected choice by locals and travelers alike for this luxury brand.
"Immerse yourself in a true Hawaiian experience at The AAA Five-Diamond Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, which boasts 54 stunning acres in the midst of the luxurious Kapalua Resort on the northwestern tip of the island of Maui. The hotel proudly maintains the Honokahua Preservation Site, a recognized “wahi pana” (sacred site) that lies adjacent to the property and serves as a destination where Native Hawaiians can gather to conduct ceremonies and protocol. This oceanfront hotel introduces visitors to the culture and natural beauty of Maui while pampering them with luxury amenities to meet every need and desire." Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua Maui
Following our tour of this luxury resort, on a most stunningly beautiful day in paradise, we dined at the poolside cafe, "Ai Ono", with Tori. The fresh bowls and specialty fries are favorites and the poolside location makes you feel as though you are on a luxury vacation.
Enjoy this glimpse of paradise as captured on my iPhone.
To book a VIP stay at the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua contact me or book online here and we will upgrade you.
Thank you to the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua and Tori Tenorio for the personalized behind the scenes tour, poolside lunch and time to enjoy the Ritz-Carlton in real time. We will definitely be back for a longer stay. Maholo!
“A day without Aloha is just another mainland day.”
A few of my favorite glimpses from our time in Maui
Maui Style
Curated Hotel: A Sublime Getaway to Zoetry Montego Bay in Jamaica
In late August, Scott and I enjoyed a sublime getaway to Zoetry Montego Bay in Jamaica. We were celebrating his “retirement moon” and our 17th wedding anniversary. From the moment we arrived, served with cool towels and chilled prosecco, we felt “at home”; just as we always do at Zoetry resorts. This luxurious boutique, beachfront resort has only 49 suites which make for an intimate, relaxing stay of unlimited luxury.
zoetry-montego-bay-curated-travel
A Sublime Getaway to Zoetry Montego Bay
"How was your getaway to Jamaica?"
I closed my eyes and thought back to late August...
A silver tray, a cool towel, a proffered chilled glass of prosecco and a "Welcome Home" from staff upon our arrival.
Turquoise waters and sun-splashed lounges with butler service poolside.
Water like glass at sunrise reflecting the pink and gold clouds over the sea.
Sheer curtains of our spacious oceanfront suite wafting in the tropical breezes during naptime.
Luxurious linens, plush terry cloth robes, and spa slippers in the suite.
A pampering couple's massage, fragrant with essential oils, followed by a dip in the spa pool.
Delectable dishes brimming with flavors of Caribbean spices and the freshest organic produce.
Time to simply be "us" again.
A cloudburst on a sailboat ending with a golden-fire sunset.
Shades of lavender, pale aqua, dusty rose, icy blue in a sunset that appears to wrap endlessly beyond the horizon.
"To say we had a wonderful time hardly does our getaway to Zoetry Montego Bay justice. It was sublime!"
In late August, Scott and I enjoyed a sublime getaway to Zoetry Montego Bay in Jamaica. We were celebrating his "retirement moon" and our 17th wedding anniversary. From the moment we arrived, served with cool towels and chilled prosecco, we felt "at home"; just as we always do at Zoetry resorts. This luxurious boutique, beachfront resort has only 49 suites which make for an intimate, relaxing stay of unlimited luxury.
After being introduced to our oceanfront suite, complete with walk-in shower and sleek soaking tub, we threw open the sheer curtains to these amazing views of the pool and sea from the spacious balcony.
"Find yourself at Zoëtry Montego Bay, a boutique resort in the upscale Ironshore neighborhood. Just steps away from the Caribbean Sea, all 49 suites were designed with a holistic approach in three main buildings: Wood & Water, Bamboo and Blue Mountain – a nod to Jamaica’s ecological tapestry. From open terraces and balconies to floor-to-ceiling sliding doors, guests will enjoy views of the ocean or the lush tropical landscape. All suites include butler service and a selection of suites offer access to private swim out pools." - Zoetry Resorts
This is one of my favorite pool, lounge and oceanfront destinations. The views of the Caribbean colors from sunrise to sunset from the picturesque dock are sublime.
From gourmet dining at two lovely open-air restaurants, to the Jerk Shack for authentic Jamaican chicken, to 24-hour room service, food and drink is plentiful at this luxury-all-inclusive resort. Our suite had the amenity of butler service, and our butler created a romantic dinner on our balcony for us one evening.
Service at the pool and beach was also top notch!
"Connect with nature on our serene, private beach. Cleanse with organic, fresh and locally grown ingredients in each meal. Clear the mind with meditation and yoga. Rejuvenate at the spa. Set yourself to the pace of island life, relax and enjoy the Endless Privileges® experience." - Zoetry Resorts
Our suite at Zoetry Montego Bay
Our thanks to Saul Nunez, General Manager, and the warm, friendly, professional staff for making our stay unforgettable.
To find out more about Zoetry and other AM Resorts contact me
Curated Hotel: A Chic Afternoon at Le Sirenuse Hotel in Positano
We leave the seductive, photogenic Amalfi Coast with one last peek; a chic afternoon on the terrace at the luxurious Le Sirenuse Hotel. The iconic hotel, with stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, has launched a thousand fantasies, mine included. Who can forget those scenes in ‘Under the Tuscan Sun‘ with Diane Lane and Raoul Bova filmed in Positano and Le Sirenuse? There are no words to describe the relaxed luxury of a world-class hotel like this. I’ll let the images tell the story.
We leave the seductive, photogenic Amalfi Coast with one last peek; a chic afternoon on the terrace at the luxurious Le Sirenuse Hotel. The iconic hotel, with stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, has launched a thousand fantasies, mine included. Who can forget those scenes in 'Under the Tuscan Sun' with Diane Lane and Raoul Bova filmed in Positano and Le Sirenuse? There are no words to describe the relaxed luxury of a world-class hotel like this. I'll let the images tell the story.
First, may I interest you in a glass of rosé?
To keep things from becoming too serious, the staff brought around mini ice cream bars, on silver platters, no less.
Though Scott and I didn't stay at this luxurious hotel on this trip, we stayed just one address up. We shared the same views, amenities and ice cream bars as those staying at Le Sirenuse for one-fifth the price. This is just one of the travel tips I'm excited to be sharing as a guest travel/lifestyle blogger and travel consultant over at Style Maniac today with the fabulous Doreen Creede. Be sure you stop by Doreen's stylish site; I've been a fan since before I started blogging four years ago.
We are meandering our way through Italy.
Contact us to book your dream travel to Italia and Le Sirenuse with VIP perks and upgrades!
Curated Hotel: The Senza Napa for a Jazzy Weekend in Napa Valley
I was recently invited to attend Brian Culbertson’s Jazz Getaway in Napa Valley so naturally Scott and I decided to make a quick weekend out of it. Wine country is beautiful every season, yet this weekend was simply spectacular. The temperature was in the high 70’s with a fresh coastal breeze. Here I am, thoroughly enjoying the pre-show with a glass of Napa Valley vino.
Jazzy Weekend in Wine Country
I was recently invited to attend Brian Culbertson's Jazz Getaway in Napa Valley so naturally Scott and I decided to make a quick weekend out of it. Wine country is beautiful every season, yet this weekend was simply spectacular. The temperature was in the high 70's with a fresh coastal breeze. Here I am, thoroughly enjoying the pre-show with a glass of Napa Valley vino.
Our weekend getaway started on Saturday with a late lunch in Yountville at a longtime favorite for french fare, Bistro Jeanty of chef Philippe Jeanty fame. We relaxed over fresh salads and cheese plates for the first time in what seemed like weeks. It felt like a mini-getaway to Provence.
Our next stop was to check into our hotel for the night, the recently renovated Hotel Senza. We had stayed here years ago when it was the La Residence. The spacious suites have been freshened up and modernized beautifully. The lush grounds and pool area are filled with a massive sculpture collection. Lounging areas are sprinkled throughout the gardens near the grapevines.
Hotel Senza possesses a rustic luxe vibe and is in the perfect location to explore wine country. It is located on the NorthWest corner of Napa just off Highway 29 on Howard Lane. From there it's an easy jaunt north to Yountville, Saint Helena or Calistoga. If you head west on Highway 12 it will take you to the picturesque Sonoma Valley.
After checking into the hotel and enjoying the wine/cheese reception presented by a local winery, we headed out for dinner on the terrace at Basalt to sample the seasonal California cuisine. Tapas and a cocktail were the perfect combination for a warm, spring evening on the river. The café lights added just the right romantic touch to this lovely spot.
Following a dreamy sleep, in a comfy bed with luxurious linens, and a substantial continental breakfast at Hotel Senza, we lounged on the patio, near the vineyards, to finish our espresso. By 10:00 am it was time to head out to the parking area at Napa College to catch the shuttle to the Jazz Getaway.
Brian Culbertson initiated the Jazz Getaway in 2012. The 5 day festival is held at several local venues, including Jamieson Vineyard Ranch, on Highway 12, at the gateway to the Napa Valley. With shuttle service, food trucks, wine and water for sale and ample shade areas, it seems the festival planners thought of every detail.
We arrived shortly after the doors opened on Sunday to beat the rush. Food trucks and wine stands were ready and waiting. After much consideration, we chose the Vera Pizza Napoletana pizza and a splash of Rose'. There were many delicious dining options at the Jazz Getaway.
Show Time!!
The show started with the vibrant energy of Vincent Ingala.
Next onstage was Mr. Brian Culbertson himself. Love his splashy green sequin jacket! Brian started this event back in 2012. From the first year, this event has featured a fantastic roundup of wine country concerts and events. Brian plays each day of the 5 days of the Jazz Getaway with unique artists joining him at each venue. Onstage here he is joined by Eric Darius.
The Temptations brought back a classic vibe. The show ended with Michael McDonald, one of my longtime favorites. I've seen Michael McDonald in concert several times over the years and I always enjoy his soulful style.
Festival Fashion
I always enjoy observing fashion at an event like this. Short flowy dresses, maxi skirts, palazzo pants, lace shorts, and rompers were very popular. Hats were everywhere, stylish and so practical for sun protection.
I was honored to be invited to attend the Jazz Getaway this year. If you are a fan of music, jazz, wine country and/or wine, this is a unique experience you will most definitely enjoy. Tickets for many of the events sold out this year, so shop early.
