Reflecting on 2025 + a Big Announcement!
2025 turned out to be an unforgettable year of travel—three trips to Europe in just six months! That was a first for me, and what a whirlwind it was. Scott and I kicked off the year sailing through the Caribbean on Explora I, easing into January with sunshine, sea breezes, and that signature Explora luxury experience.
Reflecting on 2025
2025 turned out to be an unforgettable year of travel—three trips to Europe in just six months! That was a first for me, and what a whirlwind it was. Scott and I kicked off the year sailing through the Caribbean on Explora I, easing into January with sunshine, sea breezes, and that signature Explora luxury experience.
By May, it was time for our annual Cadence Connects at the newly reimagined Hotel del Coronado—always fabulous, and even more magical with its refreshed look. Then June swept me off to Spain for the Emotions Travel Show, where I finally had the chance to explore both Madrid and Toledo for the very first time. Two cities, two completely different energies, and both absolutely captivating.
September brought one of my favorite traditions: our Fourth Curated Travel Group Cruise. Embarking from Barcelona, we had a fantastic group—many dear friends and repeat cruisers—and the itinerary along the coasts of Spain, France, and Italy was pure Mediterranean bliss. Explora Journeys was a star once again, and sharing those experiences together made it even more special. After we disembarked, Scott and I slipped away to Hotel Belles Rives in Antibes to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary, French Riviera style.
Curated Travel Group Cruise on Explora II 2025!
Three weeks later, I returned to France for a hosted week in Provence with our French partner, Andy Swann Voyage, exploring the very best of Provence and the Côte d’Azur alongside a lovely group of Cadence friends. From there, I headed to Paris for DUCO France— it was an honor to attend and a dream to spend a week immersed in the city’s finest hotels, meeting with partners, and even enjoying a couple of solo days to wander, savor, and soak it all in.
Every stamp in my passport this year brought new knowledge, deeper relationships, and richer inspiration for crafting exceptional journeys for my clients. Truly a win‑win!
And 2026 is already shaping up beautifully. Scott and I will begin the year by hosting a Virtuoso Voyage in the Caribbean with Explora Journeys, with more European adventures shimmering on the horizon.
We are already looking ahead to 2027 with a BIG ANNOUNCEMENT!
We will embark on the Explora II from Athens on September 20-27.
Duration: 7 Nights · 7 Ports · 3 Countries
Dates: 20–27 September 2027
Piraeus (Athens), Greece – Departure from historic Athens
Paros – Cycladic charm and breezy beaches
Rhodes – Medieval allure and legendary tales
Corfu – Venetian elegance and lush landscapes
Dubrovnik – Secrets behind ancient walls
Hvar – Radiant island vibes
Venice (Fusina), Italy – Artistic finale in canal-lined beauty
Info on the Explora Cruise and Itinerary HERE
The link on my website, Curated Travel, to register and sign up for the cruise HERE
Wishing you and yours a Happy New Year!
Heather
Journey to White island Bohemia & Italian Riviera Romance on Explora II - Cruise with Us!
Join us as we embark on our fourth Curated Travel group cruise—an exquisite journey of breathtaking vistas, immersive cultural discoveries, and pure indulgence at sea. From September 22 to 29, 2025, prepare to sail in style, where every moment is designed for chic elegance and unforgettable experiences through Spain, France, and Italy.
An unforgettable voyage through the Mediterranean!
Join us as we embark on our fourth Curated Travel group cruise—an exquisite journey of breathtaking vistas, immersive cultural discoveries, and pure indulgence at sea. From September 22 to 29, 2025, prepare to sail in style, where every moment is designed for chic elegance and unforgettable experiences through Spain, France, and Italy. Just a few suites left!
Barcelona - Ibiza - Marseille - Villefranche Sur Mer - Genoa - Portofino - Porto Santo Stefano - Rome
“Free-spirited Balearic summer nights slip into French chic as we stroll the Cote d’Azur. Genoa surprises with its Renzo Piano-designed port, medieval old town, and 100 palazzi, before Portofino’s inimitable elegance, pastel-colored houses, sun-warmed waters, and superb restaurants. Lean into la dolce vita as we weave Tuscany’s islands amid pristine blues to its stylish hideaway on Monte Argentario, arriving at the Eternal City at sunrise.
”
Here we are aboard the exquisite Explora I in February. We set sail through the Caribbean, indulging in an extraordinary voyage that offered a captivating preview of this unparalleled new cruise brand. Departing from Miami in elegant tandem with Explora II (our ship for September!), our journey was a seamless blend of sophistication and adventure—an enticing glimpse into the experience that awaits us on our September sailing.
We had the pleasure of meeting Captain Pietro Sinisi (image above), who will also be at the helm for our September group cruise on the Explora II!
As we prepare for our fourth Curated Travel Group Cruise, we’re assembling an incredible group—talk about the ultimate bon voyage! 🌟✨ A few terrace suites (and one penthouse) remain available for our September 22-29, 2025 sailing.
View the details below to secure your spot on this fabulous journey.
The details of our specialized group pricing
Learn more about Explora Journeys and the brand new Explora II
To register your interest in cruising with us, please complete this form
Bon Voyage!
Heather & Scott
One of my favorite stops - Portofino on the Italian Riviera!
Exciting News! We Will be Hosting A Virtuoso Voyage with Seabourn Ultra Luxury Cruises - Monte Carlo to Barcelona - October 2023 - Join Us!
How does frolicking on the French Riviera sound about now?
In October, Scott and I plan to set sail on the luxurious Seabourn Sojourn from Monte Carlo to Barcelona on a 10-day cruise with stops in Elba, Amalfi, and Taormina (Italy), Valletta (Malta), St. Tropez and La Ciotat (France), as well as Palamos (Spain) before disembarking in Barcelona on this spectacular itinerary.
“Picture calm cerulean waters, stunning beaches, traditional fishing villages, and family-run wineries — not to mention megalithic temples, ancient Pompeii’s ruins, and the world’s oldest underground necropolis.”
How does frolicking on the French Riviera sound about now?
In October, Scott and I will set sail on the luxurious Seabourn Sojourn from Monte Carlo (Monaco) to Barcelona on a 10-day cruise with stops in Elba, Amalfi, and Taormina (Italy), Valletta (Malta), St. Tropez and La Ciotat (France), as well as Palamos (Spain) before disembarking in Barcelona on this spectacular itinerary. We have been invited to host the Virtuoso Voyages clients aboard who will receive specialized VIP amenities.
View destinations in the gallery below:
What we love: Seabourn provides all-inclusive, luxury cruising, refined to its purest form. Hand-selected itineraries transport you to unique ports beyond the reach of larger ships.
• Intimate ships with a private club atmosphere
• One of the highest space-per-guest ratios in the industry
• The youngest and most modern fleet in the industry
A culinary partnership with famed chef Thomas Keller.
Virtuoso Hosted Voyages Perks:
As Curated Travel clients, you will receive these added benefits of the Virtuoso Voyages program when you book with us:
Dedicated onboard hosts (That’s US! - Heather & Scott Lindstrom from Curated Travel)
Private welcome cocktail party/reception
Exclusive shore excursions, from VIP tours to outings with a private car and driver (see below for a special experience on October 13)
Shipboard credits and specialty dining options
On this cruise, you also receive an Enhanced cruise experience for Virtuoso Voyages clients - October 13, 2023 - in Palomos, Spain:
“VIP Virtuoso Voyages Discover Palamos, one of Spain's most prominent ports. The day begins with a drive from Palamos to beautiful and ancient Gerona, a city in the northeast of Spain on the Costa Brava that boasts Roman-era walls and contains the most valuable heritage sites in the Catalonian region. The tour takes guests into the medieval city located on the banks of the river Onyar, where guests will see the famed “Tapestry of Creation” in Gerona’s 12th-13th century Cathedral and visit the nearby Bonastruc Jewish Center which chronicles the history of the Jews that lived in this city during the Middle Ages. Guests will also learn how the “Aljama”, or self-governing communities of Moors and Jews living under Spanish Christian rule functioned, and their traditions. After the visit, it will be time for a wonderful luncheon of delicious Catalonian specialties complimented by local wines at Restaurant Cal Ros. Guests will have some time at leisure to stroll the narrow, picturesque streets of the medieval village of Palsand and browse its many colorful shops.”
Learn more about the 10-Day Tyrrhenian Treasures & Malta Cruise
and contact us to book.
Current Promotion: Receive up to $ 2,000 USD Air Credit per Person, a Two-Category Suite Upgrade with a Reduced 10% Deposit.
OR-
Is Alaska more your style??
In addition to the October cruise, we will also be hosting a Virtuoso Voyage for Seabourn to Alaska in July 2023! 7-Day Alaska Fjords & Canadian Inside Passage July 7-14. 2023. Departs Juneau, Alaska, and arrives in Vancouver, BC. Contact us to learn more and to book.
We would love to have you join us on either or both cruises!
Contact us to learn more.
Bon Voyage!
Heather & Scott
All images are shared with direct permission from Seabourn.
A Visit to Classic Provence with a Sweet Stay at La Maison D'Uzès
Provence is everything you have likely pictured in your mind’s eye. Pastel houses, shimmery sunlight, colorful window boxes of blooms, with pastel café tables dotting the gardens and patios ready for a moment of reflection over a robust Café Crème or chilled rosé. The lifestyle in Provence is simply irresistible.
Provence is everything you have likely pictured in your mind’s eye. Pastel houses, shimmery sunlight, colorful window boxes of blooms, with pastel café tables dotting the gardens and patios ready for a moment of reflection over a robust Café Crème or chilled rosé. The lifestyle in Provence is simply irresistible.
“The city of Uzès is a joy to discover, full of history and with a delightful atmosphere. Situated between Avignon and Nîmes, Uzès is a charming town with narrow streets lined with beautiful tall buildings made of honey-coloured stone.”
On our recent trip to France we spent one night at the charming Hotel La Maison d’Uzès originating in the 17th century in the heart of Uzès located northwest of Avignon. I was enamoured with our french luxe suite with lovely views of the city. The bathroom was one of the most spacious I’ve ever enjoyed, especially with that soaking tub! Though at the tip top of a steep, winding staircase (pity the kind bellman who hauled my suitcase) we enjoyed the beauty of this charming perch.
A tour of our suite at Hotel La Maison d’Uzès
Our evening, hosted by Sebastien with Creative Destinations, started with a chic little cocktail party by the fireside. We enjoyed a true foodie dining experience at Table d’Uzès later that evening. We were taken with the fresh and innovative menu in the heart of Provence.
“The chef selects the finest products, and most beautiful fruits and vegetables. Tomatoes, courgettes, beans, and aubergines ripen slowly in the warm sunshine in this part of the world. Regional cuisine combines their colours and flavours, accenting them with aromatic herbs. Pastries are made with sun-kissed fruit: peaches, apricots, and nectarines. This freshness and sweetness are in keeping with the hotel’s spirit.”
To learn more about Uzès here. For more information on La Maison d’UZES and to book contact me. Our thanks to Sebastien from Creative Destinations and the staff at La Maison d’Uzes for our memorable stay.
Contact us to learn more about making your dream travel come true!
Heather
A Visit to Charming Baumanière in Les Baux-de-Provence
On a cloudless day with brilliant azure skies we arrived at Baumanière in Les Baux de Provence. Trust me, for any lovers of French gardens the grounds were the stuff of dreams! Pure Provencial charm embellished with towering cypress, clipped boxwood hedges - fragrant rosemary, lavender, citrus and roses - enhanced with vintage ironwork and the classic eggshell blue painted trims. Café sets placed under trees and trellises create alfresco living at it’s french best.
On a cloudless day graced with brilliant azure skies, we arrived at Baumanière in Les Baux de Provence. Trust me, for any lovers of French gardens the grounds are the stuff of dreams! Pure Provencial charm embellished with towering cypress, clipped boxwood hedges - fragrant rosemary, lavender, citrus, and roses - enhanced with vintage ironwork and the classic eggshell blue painted trims. Café sets placed under trees and trellises create alfresco living at its French best.
“Our domain is above all a place on the fringe of life where we feel at home, between poetry and reality, everything becomes possible for a moment.”
The accomodations range from modern and airy with contemporary touches to classically charming suites with extraordinary views of surrounding Provence.
A tour of our suite at Baumanière
We were graciously invited to dine at the 2 Michelin starred L'Oustau de Baumanière with renown chef/owner Jean-André Charial creating one of the most exquisite foodie dining experiences of our lives.
To learn more about the dining experiences available check out Gastronomy at Baumanière.
“Baumanière : beautiful manners, the art of living and welcoming everything and everyone with an acute sense of happiness”
”Baumanière is an institution in Provence whose renown goes well beyond the national borders. For seventy years, Baumanière has represented much more than a destination for a luxury getaway. It is a philosophy, an authentic and sincere way of life, the secret and taste of which were passed down to me by my grandfather, Raymond Thuilier, the founder of the establishment. Elegance, serenity, respect for the environment and people are the values held dear by Baumanière, the work of a visionary who created a paradise in his own image.
It is not an easy thing to stay on the top for one or two decades, but to remain so for over seventy years demonstrates our capacity to innovate while never forgoing our objective of excellence. Baumanière is in no way a museum of bygone days... Today, it is different and yet similar to the Baumanière of the past. Similar because of its excellent culinary tradition and refined, discreet and friendly hospitality. Different due to its capacity to adapt to modernity and respond to the needs of a new generation of guests. Living fully in one’s times while preserving the essential values of top class hospitality is what Baumanière is all about.”
The view from our terrace
To learn more about this extraordinary destination Baumanière and contact Heather at Curated Travel to book.
I can offer Virtuoso Amenities for your stay
Upgrade at time of arrival, subject to availability
Complimentary buffet breakfast for two daily for the duration of the stay
A complimentary lunch at la Table d’hôtes for 2 people per room, excluding alcohol, taxes, and gratuities once during stay
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Our thanks to the team at Baumanière for making our stay so memorable. Thank you to Sebastien of Creative Destinations for the invitation to explore the best of Provence.
A Springtime Visit to Paris and the Chic Le Royal Monceau
Last month we had the pleasure of returning to one of our favorite destinations, Paris. It was a quick stop over on our way to Provence and the French Riviera but we made the most of time. We checked into the Le Royal Monceau and were immediately taken with the touch of whimsy (note upside down flower pot arrangement) and sleek, modern vibe of this Philippe Starck designed hotel. Our suite came complete with delicious welcoming macaroons, plush robes, linens and Clarins bath products and even a guitar for Mr. C.T. They thought of everything!
Last month we had the pleasure of returning to one of our favorite destinations, Paris. It was a quick stop over on our way to Provence and the French Riviera but we made the most of our time. We checked into the Le Royal Monceau and were immediately taken with the touch of whimsy (note upside down flower pot arrangement) and sleek, modern vibe of this Philippe Starck designed hotel. Our suite came complete with delicious welcoming macarons, plush robes, linens and Clarins bath products and even a guitar for Mr. C.T. They thought of everything!
A video tour of our suite
Jet lag had set in but we were determined to freshen up, explore the neighborhood near the Arc de Triomphe, and enjoy a Parisian dinner. We didn’t have to walk far to find this charming spot, l'Elysée Saint Honoré, just down the block. Fresh chevre salad, the savory fish special, and a rich cannelloni paired with a lush red suited us just fine on this watercolor evening. After many hours of travel, we slept like babies in Paris that night!
With only one full day in Paris we enjoyed breakfast ensuite then set off to wander and explore, enjoy some cafe’ life and soak up the culture of Paris.
Our wanderings took us from ritzy boutiques to classical French apartment buildings with peek-a-boo gardens, to stops at the hip Hotel Costes and Budda Bar Paris. Eventually, we landed for lunch at La Coupe D’Or on Saint Honore’ for a fondly remembered chevre salad. As you can see, I found the French crowd to be very friendly.
“Paris is always a good idea.”
Let’s face it, the food in Paris is always a highlight. On our final night the concierge recommended we visit Allard for a truly authentic dining experience. The simple, yet luxurious fare, is unforgettable. The roasted Bourbonnais free-range chicken with roasted potatoes was unlike any chicken we had ever tasted. It was infused with butter (french style) and dripping with flavor. This classic is now owned by famed chef Alain Ducasse who endeavors to keep the traditional menu alive.
“For over 80 years, Allard has been one of the most sought after gourmet addresses in Paris
Located in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, it remains one of the last authentic French gourmet bistros. Today still, the establishment is filled with the spirit of Marthe Allard, « mother cook » who founded the restaurant in 1932. Allard is above all the story of a peasant from the Burgundy region who traveled up to Paris carrying her sincere and generous family recipes.”
Paris by night
Le Royal Monceau in Paris is one of the preferred partners for the CADENCE travel brand and is a member of the Virtuoso luxury network. As a travel advisor, it’s exciting to share our favorite destinations with blog readers and clients. Contact me to receive VIP upgrades and amenities at this luxurious and chic hotel.
Virtuoso Amenities:
Upgrade at time of booking, subject to availability
Complimentary buffet breakfast daily for up to two in-room guests served in La Cuisine Restaurant
Guaranteed late check-out until 4 PM
$100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
