A Summer Getaway to Siena, Italy
Scott and I spent a day in Siena, back in 2003, punctuated by wrong turns, a stint mistakenly driving in the no-vehicle zone and an epic heat wave. When we finally settled in and enjoyed the charms of an al fresco dinner, we vowed to return to this hilltop city someday. Siena was Scott’s top choice as a destination for our summer in Italy, so this was our time to revisit.
Getaway to Siena, Italy
If the Amalfi Coast is painted with shimmering pastels and flecks of gold, Siena, the jewel of Tuscany, is painted with bold, linear strokes of rich pigment aged over time.
Scott and I spent a day in Siena, back in 2003, punctuated by wrong turns, a stint mistakenly driving in the no-vehicle zone and an epic heat wave. When we finally settled in and enjoyed the charms of an al fresco dinner, we vowed to return to this hilltop city someday. Siena was Scott's top choice as a destination for our summer in Italy, so this was our time to revisit.
We arrived in Siena via a luxury bus from Florence. Our smooth arrival quickly turned into a 30-minute panic involving a missing wallet (again!), containing a stack of Euros and our credit card. Scott had been pickpocketed on our first day in Lisbon several years ago and we had the same sinking feeling. By using some stealth memory skills --of a missing curtain and royal blue upholstery -- we finally located the unmarked bus, among the 30 or so parked buses. We spotted an off-duty bus driver, and following some pleading and the pro-offer of a monetary reward, he popped the lock on "our" bus. Scott bounded up the stairs and immediately spotted his wallet which had fallen between the seats. We were now bathed in sweat, with blisters rising on our feet, but incredibly relieved to have the wallet in possession. Looking back there were a few comedic moments, picture Lucy and Ricky Ricardo, with us running around, luggage in tow, trying to find our bus before it departed.
At long last, our reward was to be in Siena!
The architectural details capture the imagination in Siena.
The food and dining options in Siena are unforgettable. Among Italians, there is a passion towards food and wine that is contagious. Not only are the flavors fresh and lively, but the recipes and vines are steeped in the history of the region. Even the dishware represents centuries-old family history as we learned during a private wine tasting.
In Siena we were seeking an authentic, medieval city experience for our three-day stay. I researched long and hard to find a place, in the historic city center, that was charming and peaceful. We ended selecting a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment in a former monastery. We were so pleased with our choice, owned by gracious Anna and Franco. I look forward to sharing our experience staying at their "luminous apartment' in an upcoming post.
Whether a hotel or a private apartment, staying in the city center allows for easy access to a number of historic attractions, as well as the iconic, fan-shaped Piazza del Campo and the heart of the city. It is ideal for wandering, dining, shopping, or lounging on the stones of the square to capture the light show that is 'evening' in this place. It is dazzling!
In Siena, if you pay attention, you can feel the rhythms of history, ancient battles fought, and the rich traditions of the area that continue. If you are fortunate enough to visit on July 2nd or August 16th you will witness the Palio of Siena festival where locals from the 17 neighborhoods compete. Though we visited in mid-July we were treated to a parade complete with horses, drummers, unfurled flags and cheering crowds in preparation for the Palio on August 16th. Palio is a deeply felt, emotional experience for the Sienese and fascinating to experience as a visitor.
Have you been to Siena?
Are you looking for a fabulous apartment in Siena?
Contact me for more information and travel planning services.
Ciao!
*ALL IMAGES HEATHER LINDSTROM - Curated Travel
Getaway to Positano on the Spectacular Amalfi Coast of Italy
Positano possesses a kind of magic that is difficult to put into words. It’s a kaleidoscope of shimmering light, pastel hues, vibrant bougainvillea, and the winding, terraced streets with pastel villas clinging to the mountainside. Boldly colored umbrellas bounce off the chameleon blue hues of the sea. At sunset, a rosy glow falls over the glassy sea and twinkling lights spark the views. Day or night, Positano is a place of pure magic.
Getaway to Positano
Positano possesses a kind of magic that is difficult to put into words. It's a kaleidoscope of shimmering light, pastel hues, vibrant bougainvillea, and the winding, terraced streets with pastel villas clinging to the mountainside. Boldly colored umbrellas bounce off the chameleon blue hues of the sea. At sunset, a rosy glow falls over the glassy sea and twinkling lights spark the views.
Day or night, Positano is a place of pure magic.
The Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast has been on my travel bucket list for many years. Despite several visits to Italy, Scott and I had never made it this far south until July. It was definitely worth the wait! The rumored magic of the Amalfi Coast is all true.
Following a 3 1/2 hour drive, three flights and 30+ hours of travel, we arrived in Naples. Thankfully, our driver, Davide of Dreaming Amalfi Coast, was there to greet us. He ushered us into his luxury vehicle and entertained us with stories of Amalfi Coast and Italian life. Charming Davide stopped for us to take in some views of Sorrento and the entire Amalfi Coast, and offered us some limoncello ice from a roadside stand.
With travel fatigue and jet lag setting in, having comfortable lodging pre-booked is always important to us. As it turns out, the Alcione Residence was the perfect choice for our four-night stay. The intimate boutique hotel of 11 suites is charming and well-appointed with panoramic views of Positano from each balcony. The staff, Katia and Valentina, were incredibly kind and helpful. The location is right on Via Cristoforo Columbo and just two doors away from the famed Le Sirenuse Hotel. Boutiques and cafes are sprinkled along the street, and the bougainvillea covered path to the shopping streets and beach is nearby.
Our suite was beautifully appointed with authentic Italian furnishings, luxurious linens, and brightly colored hand-painted tiles. From wrought iron details to gilded mirrors, we were very pleased with our spotless and cheery suite.
The view from our terrace was captivating.
We stumbled across the street from the hotel on that first weary night. We didn't have to walk up or down the steep slope but simply across the street. We enjoyed the dishes and view so well at Ristorante L'Ancora that we ate here twice and enjoyed a nightcap on another evening.
At Residence Alcione a breakfast tray, with continental breakfast and more items of our choice, was delivered to our room each day for dining on the terrace.
Be prepared to walk and climb stairs in Positano. Comfortable shoes are a must! The streets are steep and winding.
There are many options of things to do in Positano--take in the views, enjoy a delicious meal at a café, shop the boutiques, tour Chiesa di Santa Maria, or catch a ferry or private boat to a number of destinations. If you are in the mood for water sports, they have it all at the beach. If you simply want to chill, you can take a break at a beachfront café. Steps away you can catch some sun or a swim at Spiaggia Grande beach or the smaller Spiaggia del Fornillo beach around the bend.
This is the view of the ornate dome of Chiesa di Santa Maria from the terrace of the famed hotel Le Sirenuse. This spot was a couple of doors down from our hotel and a luxurious spot to grab lunch or a glass of rose'.
Boutiques are plentiful, especially close to the beach, where cruise ships unload passengers anxious to collect souvenirs of Positano. The jewel encrusted sandals are very popular and one of my favorite souvenirs to bring home.
Scott and I beat the heat, and the crowds, by walking up Via Cristoforo Colombo one afternoon. We found a petite sidewalk cafe' to enjoy another fresh caprese salad.
I happened upon the enticing Profumi di Positano. After sampling a number of fragrances, I eventually selected Aova Avrea, a fragrance with the most significant lemon/limone notes, according to the charming owner who helped me. The Barba family started making their quality olive-oil based soaps in 1922 and launched their perfumes in 1965. The brand is now led by the fourth generation of the Barba family. I always enjoy taking home a fragrance, candle or soap when I travel. Smelling it later takes me back to that place in time.
The view from Marincanto. This is one of my favorite images, and hotel views, from our time in Positano.
Surely either terrace would work nicely for some sun and lounging. Don't you think?
If you've watched the first season of Giada in Italy, on the Food Network, you may recognize this area. The cooking show, featuring chef Giada De Laurentiis, was filmed just a short walk up from our hotel at Torre Sponda. Once we booked our trip to Positano, I rewatched several episodes of Giada's cooking show, just drooling over the scenery and the recipes, dreaming of our upcoming visit.
For more on Positano:
A Chic Afternoon at Le Sirenuse
Date Night: Dinner High Above Positano
Boating to the Dreamy Isle of Capri
Day Tripping on the Amalfi Coast [Amalfi and Ravello]
How to Make a Limoncello Spritzer
Here's to living la dolce vita!
Ciao! Heather
Curated Hotel: Island Paradise at Zoetry Villa Rolandi on Isla Mujeres
Following two flights and one taxi ride to the water’s edge, Scott and I were whisked away on a private yacht to Zoetry Villa Rolandi.
Island Paradise at Zoetry Villa Rolandi on the Island of Isla Mujeres:
Isla Mujeres is a jewel of an island just a leisurely yacht ride from Cancun in the Mexican Caribbean. The waters of the Bahia de Mujeres (Bay of Women) shimmer in the sunlight with aqua to turquoise shades and appear luminescent at sunset with rose gold and blue tones.
Isla Mujeres is simply sublime.
Following two flights and one taxi ride to the water's edge, Scott and I were whisked away on a private yacht to Zoetry Villa Rolandi.
Charming Alexander, an Isla Mujeres 4th generation native and concierge of the yacht, served champagne.
We arrived at Zoetry Villa Rolandi just 30 minutes after leaving Cancun...
and following our private concierge check-in, we were in the pool 15 minutes later.
#islandparadise
Zoetry Villa Rolandi is an intimate island-style resort, composed of only 35 oceanfront suites. Our suite looked over the pool with the white sand beach just a few steps below.
The view from our balcony.
There are 2 infinity-edged pools, a world-class Thalasso spa, two gourmet restaurants, a free concierge yacht service, and a lovely stretch of beach at Zoetry Villa Rolandi.
Isla Mujeres boasts some gorgeous sunsets, like this one over the infinity-edged pool to the sea.
It also has some of the best beaches in the Caribbean.
The sand was like sugar.
If you dare leave the lounge chair or hammock,
golf carts are available for rent and are great for a day-trip around the island.
We discovered a casual beachy spot for lunch with live music. Definitely feeling like a local here.
After a few hours of exploring the island, you will likely be longing to get back to that pool and lounge chair.
In your suite, a fruit plate and a daily bottle of champagne await you. The chocolate covered strawberries were a gift for us as members of Unlimited Vacation Club.
Evenings at Zoetry Villa Rolandi are filled with twinkling lights, decadent gourmet dining, and sublime sips. The service, even poolside at the intimate Le Metissage French-Mexican fusion cuisine, was impeccable.
This spot, Casa Rolandi, was perfect for breakfast, although we often ordered breakfast delivered en suite. Zoetry resorts are luxury all-inclusive vacations, and they always have 24 hour room service, as well as a free laundry service, a nice perk after a day of travel.
Just look at that view!
Cheers to a sunny escape to Isla Mujeres!
Contact us at Curated Travel to book your luxury all-inclusive getaway.
Getaway to Dry Creek Valley Wine Country, California
Scott and I tried something new for the updated version of our winter holiday. Though we were unable to fly to Riviera Maya due to his back issues, we decided a short road trip would be just the right idea. Wine country is our favorite Northern California getaway and we thought it would be fun to stay in a vacation rental rather than a hotel this trip. With above average temps and sunny skies we knew we were in for a sunny escape to wine country. The vibrant yellow mustard, brilliant blue skies and puffy white clouds were dazzling.
Scott and I tried something new for the updated version of our winter holiday. Though we were unable to fly to Riviera Maya due to his back issues, we decided a short road trip would be just the right idea. Wine country is our favorite Northern California getaway and we thought it would be fun to stay in a vacation rental rather than a hotel this trip. With above average temps and sunny skies we knew we were in for a sunny escape to wine country. The vibrant yellow mustard, brilliant blue skies and puffy white clouds were dazzling.
After a fair amount of research we settled on Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate in Dry Creek Valley. As it turns out, this was the perfect choice for a luxurious, comfortable and private "home away from home" for the long weekend. I love these views up the winding driveway to Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate. The location is excellent just 8 miles outside of Healdsburg.
We took the winding gravel path past the lemon tree, mounds of rosemary and lavender, and the beautiful pool area.
From the moment we arrived at Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate we felt instantly at home. Laurie and Robert, the homeowners, greeted us warmly, and we were directed past the lemon tree to the short, winding path beside the swimming pool, leading up to the private suite.
Laurie familiarized us with the simple details to make our stay comfortable. Luxury linens, fine furnishings, fragrant bath products and a cozy fireplace created a lovely ambiance. A Keurig coffee maker and small refrigerator made it easy to create a light breakfast or afternoon snacks, and to chill white wine. The bathroom area is comprised of two small rooms; with high end stone tiles and finishes, it is compact and efficient. The toilet and small sink are in one room and the shower is in another. There is no counter space but the glass wall shelves were sufficient for storage.
For more details on our stay read my review on Homeaway of Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate.
This view offers peaceful vineyard vistas during the daytime and brilliant stars at night. I can only imagine how wonderful a dip in the pool would be on a toasty summer day in the valley.
After settling into our suite we made the short drive to quaint Geyserville for dinner at Diavola. We don't splurge on carb-loading pizza very often, but when we do, we always hope it is good as this one. Thanks for the great recommendations, Laurie and Robert!
Following a leisurely morning with coffee and a light en suite breakfast we had picked up at the small market in Geyserville the night before, we were off to lunch at Rustic "Francis's Favorites" at Coppola Winery. In this lovely hilltop spot, reminiscent of Tuscany, we enjoyed friendly service and fun conversation with fellow diners. (PS-my purse must have fallen off the chair because I'm a bit of a germaphobe who would much rather hold my bag then set it on the ground #winecountrynocares :)
Filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola has created a unique concept around the swimming pool with cabines to rent for family days at the pool. This looks like a super fun concept for warm weather fun. It reminds me of throwback summers on the shore. For more details on pools and cabines here.
Our next stop was for a tasting at Matrix Winery. The interior is currently being remodeled into what will become a beautiful tasting room and deck, but the outdoor spaces are still beautiful. We enjoyed some luscious pinot noirs at Matrix on this sunny afternoon next to the water feature.
Scott was getting around pretty well on this day, thankfully. Maybe the sound of splashing water soothed his soul?
Or maybe it was the wine?
A video posted by Heather Lindstrom (@stylemindchic) on Feb 6, 2016 at 2:56pm PST
This photo is a simply a gratuitous reminder to stick with pilates...DAILY!!!
From Matrix it was a quick trip back to the guest suite for some relaxation before heading out to dinner. Laurie and Robert's very friendly kitty (pictured above) came inside for a visit. Did I mention Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate felt like our "home away from home"?
After freshening up we were off to dinner in Healdsburg, for our second visit to Dry Creek Kitchen, of Chef Charlie Palmer fame. We had the most impeccable service and delicious bites on this evening. The ingenious sommelier, Rolando, introduced us to some lovely wine and conversation that made for a memorable evening. I was also happy to see that Chef charlie Palmer 'liked' my photo of our evening at Dry Creek Kitchen on Instagram.
We found the vibe to be significantly more warm and friendly than our visit here several years ago. We highly recommend you make a reservation here and talk to Rolando about wines (and life).
Another fantastic perk of staying at Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate is that Laurie and Robert graciously offered us a private wine tasting at neighboring Mazzocco Winery.
We scheduled our tasting for noon on Sunday and were lucky enough to meet Mick. He shared a number of delicious pours of Mazzocco wines, some of which were created with grapes grown at Pony Ranch Vineyard. He also shared stories of the local vineyards and the history of the area. If you visit Mazzocco ask for Mick and he will spoil you, no doubt.
Shed Healdsburg-a wonderful place to buy a picnic or dine. We enjoyed a tasty gelato.
All getaways must come to an end. Our thanks to Laurie & Robert for an unforgettable getaway to Dry Creek wine country. Thank you for sharing your lovely estate with us for the weekend. We promise, we will visit again soon!
To Stay:
Our new favorite 'Home Away from Home' in wine country: Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate.
H2 Hotel (previous post here)
For more on Healdsburg: Getaway to Healdsburg and Getaway to Sonoma Valley Wine Country
To Dine:
Spoonbar from previous post here
To Taste:
Curated Hotel: The Chic H-10 Port Vell in Barcelona
Our getaway to Barcelona was the last stop on our three-week vacation to Portugal and Spain. This was our second time visiting Barcelona, and though our time was short, Scott and I were looking forward to getting better acquainted with this culturally vibrant, sexy city.
Our getaway to Barcelona was the last stop on our three-week vacation to Portugal and Spain. This was our second time visiting Barcelona, and though our time was short, Scott and I were looking forward to getting better acquainted with this culturally vibrant, sexy city.
We were off to a good start as we arrived at the H10 Port Vell. We were warmly welcomed, with huge smiles and a glass of bubbly, by the handsome staff. Upon arriving at our suite we were happy to see a beautiful view of the harbor, and all the amenities weary travelers could hope for. A hip, modern suite with plush robes, luxury linens, an espresso machine, chocolates, a welcome note and a bottle of champagne.
We selected the H10 Port Vell, for several reasons. One is that I am a sucker for a rooftop lounge, especially one with a refreshing pool, like this one. I also love clean, modern furnishings and sleek design. The H10 brand has all the details in place to provide creature comforts to travelers with a fresh twist.
With a perfectly appointed suite, a bottle of bubbly and this view from the rooftop lounge, we considered staying 'in' for the rest of our holiday, but our adventurous spirit prevailed.
Another reason we chose the H10 Port Vell is that it's located right next door to the Gothic Quarter, Barri Gotic. On our previous visit to Barcelona, in 2006, we discovered Barri Gotic on our last evening. We were enamoured with the seductive labyrinth of walkways, ancient gothic architecture and quintessential tapas bars spilling out into the alley ways.
This is the perfect place to meander away from the boulevards and lose yourself. Brimming with boutiques, galleries, cafes and tapas bars around every turn, you are certain to find a hidden gem, or several.
We enjoyed Casa Pascual for cafe style tapas and friendly service. The bites and sangria were authentic and it was only steps from our hotel. The location is good for exploring both the harbor and Barri Gotic. On our previous visit we enjoyed an exquisite meal at Comerc 24 where we dined on gold dust, the first, and only, time in our lives (It's delicious!;).
Viewing the whimsical, organic architecture of Antoni Gaudi is a must in Barcelona. His use of natural forms, like stone and shades of color, with mosaic tiles, is legendary. A Gaudi walking tour from Trip Advisor, a definite must for our next visit to Barcelona here.
Another must see while in Spain is the Flamenco Dance.
Never before, or since, have we witnessed dance that exuded this much fiery passion: sexy, sultry and fluid. It will make you want to get up and dance, I promise. Not a bad way to spend a colorful night on the town in Barcelona.
If afternoons spent lollygagging around on the rooftop lounge, and nights at Flamenco, start to look too 'glamorous', I have the flip side of that perspective. Just moments after this photo of Scott and I was taken, at an outdoor tapas restaurant, I adjusted my chair backwards. The chair leg went into the flowerbed and I ended up falling backwards in the chair, flat on my back, with my legs in the air and my skirt over my head! That was way too much 'information' for the fellow diners to digest during lunch, and then, I couldn't stop laughing. Enough said. Travel isn't always as glamorous as it may appear, but it's always an adventure!
And more proof of why a rooftop lounge, with a pool, is one of the best inventions ever. These 'lounge lizard' images, taken at the B Hotel during our first stay in Barcelona, July of 2006. This was an unforgettable afternoon of relaxation during another busy travel itinerary.
Our three weeks of European travel came to a close and we were ready to be home.
Earlier posts on our trip to Portugal & Spain:
Getaway to San Sebastian, Spain
and How to Dress European Chic
Some of my favorite roof top terraces here.
Writing travel posts is one of my favorite themes of my Style*Mind*Chic Life.
I feel like I'm reliving our travels as I create each post.
Thank you for following along on this 'sunny escape' to one of my favorite places.
Have you ever visited beautiful Spain?
Traveling soon? Find hotel deals & read millions of traveler reviews on TripAdvisor!
*H10 Port Vell graciously provided an upgraded suite and bottle of champagne to sweeten our stay.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Birthday in Paradise at Zoetry in Dominican Republic!
I've always been secretly happy that my birthday is on July 15th and smack dab in the middle of summer. It means I've never had to go to school and usually not to work on my birthday.
This year the timing was perfect for my birthday as we are enjoying our last couple of days in the tropical paradise of Dominican Republic.
My favorite birthday companion #spoiled me a bit
With a significant number of difficulties marking the beginning of our trip this phase at Zoetry Agua has been completely sublime.
This little guy has kept us company during breakfast on our terrace.
Some spa time made the birthday girl very happy.
I'm not politically minded and I thought it was fun to see that Jon Stewart had 'favorited' one of my tweets.
Our dinner with some of our new fabulous friends from the pool. We laughed and bombed out at a merengue dance lesson together later.
Thanks for making my birthday perfect and hopefully we will all end up at Zoetry again someday!
I just wanted to say a quick thank you for so many lovely birthday wishes on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and text.
I feel truly blessed this year that my world has expanded in so many
incredible ways. The connections I've made with Stylemindchic Life mean the world to me.
Happy Birthday to my lovely mom today! Though we are separated by distance our birthdays always
stand side by side (she always tells me I was an early birthday present).
Looking forward to celebrating together.
Thanks for stopping by Stylemindchic Life!
Can't wait to catch up with everyone on our return.
xx,
Curated Collections at my Stylemindchic Boutique!
