CURATED TRAVEL: Postcard from the Crown Princess on the Eastern Caribbean
This is just a peek of life on the Crown Princess sailing on the Eastern Caribbean. After 8 days floating on this stately cruise ship, I have a new appreciation for the fine art of cruising. The Caribbean is just as beautiful as ever with the shimmering turquoise waters, sugar sand beaches and beguiling breezes.
Postcard from the Crown Princess on the Eastern Caribbean
This is just a peek of life on the Crown Princess sailing on the Eastern Caribbean. After 8 days floating on this stately cruise ship, I have a new appreciation for the fine art of cruising. The Caribbean is just as beautiful as ever with the shimmering turquoise waters, sugar sand beaches and beguiling breezes.
Sending sunshine your way today.
Wish you were here!
A Parisian Apartment Style Brunch
One of the most alluring reasons to stay in a Parisian apartment while visiting Paris is savoring a taste of the French way of life. With a boulangerie, fruit market, grocery, patisserie, butcher and international market on nearly every block, it’s easy to gather the freshest, tastiest ingredients each day to create memorable bites.
Our Parisian Apartment style brunch in Paris
Brunch in the Parisian Apartment
One of the most alluring reasons to stay in a Parisian apartment while visiting Paris is savoring a taste of the French way of life. With a boulangerie, fruit market, grocery, patisserie, butcher and international market on nearly every block, it's easy to gather the freshest, tastiest ingredients each day to create memorable bites.
It doesn't have to be elaborate, though it can be, for us it was simple, fresh and flavorful. These are a few of the items we collected for brunch in the Parisian apartment in July. Pain au chocolate croissants, café crèmes, asparagus quiche, juicy peaches, and fresh scrambled eggs for one morning. This was our simple, fresh, tasty le petit déjeuner in the Parisian apartment.
(Click on images for slideshow)
Where is your favorite place to brunch?
For more on this romantic Parisian apartment.
To book your dream getaway to Paris contact us - Curated Travel.
Curated Travel: Packing Tips - Edited Accessories + New Favorites from grayc glass
I've learned to minimize and refine my packing style through trial and error. I believe it was that three-week vacation to Italy and France in 2011, lugging an overweight suitcase on and off train platforms, up tiny staircases of hotels, and out of taxi cabs, that finally made me a believer in the less is more approach to packing and traveling. I was also grateful that neither Scott or I developed a hernia hoisting that bag up and down for three weeks.
Packing Tips: Edited Accessories
When it comes to accessories: Never underestimate the power of a sleek pair of sunglasses, a great scarf, signature jewelry and a fedora while traveling.
I've learned to minimize and refine my packing style through trial and error. I believe it was that three-week vacation to Italy and France in 2011, lugging an overweight suitcase on and off train platforms, up tiny staircases of hotels, and out of taxi cabs, that finally made me a believer in the less is more approach to packing and traveling. I was also grateful that neither Scott or I developed a hernia hoisting that bag up and down for three weeks.
Accessories have always been an issue for me, especially when traveling to an area with a chic sense of style, like Paris, the Riviera, the Amalfi Coast or a luxury resort in the Caribbean. Despite refining my clothing list, I had a hard time saying 'no' to many of my favorite accessories. This habit led to a hefty jewelry and accessories case to lug around with me, even during lengthy travels.
I'm a firm believer that switching out jewelry, scarves, and accessories can transform a basic black outfit, making them the perfect travel hack. That said, I was still hauling around more than I needed, due to sheer indecision, in the packing process. I also noticed that I often wore just a few statement pieces to keep it simple anyway.
For my trip to Italy and France last summer, I vowed to break my habit, and I seriously edited the jewelry and accessories that I packed.
*I carefully laid out a few must-haves, a gold bangle, Trina Turk bracelet, a statement ring from grayc glass, crystal studs, a sparkly necklace, gold framed earrings and a Marc Jacobs rose gold watch. I knew that these would be my go-to statement pieces for three weeks of travel so they had to be right.
*I reviewed my clothing pieces, arranged by outfits, to see that I had the right pieces to work with each ensemble.
Rather than 25-30 items, as usual, I had 7-8 thoughtfully chosen accessories which made the process of packing, traveling and dressing each day much more simplified.
I used the same system when packing accessories for Secrets Papagayo in Costa Rica last March.
I snapped this pic in Paris from my perch in the Parisian apartment we rented last summer. This is one of my favorite signature rings designed by fused glass artist Courtney Gray of grayc glass. I wrote about my visit to Courtney's studio a couple of years ago for the blog. Courtney has a huge range of statement pieces available in her online boutique. She is also a founding member of my FEISTY group for Female Entrepreneurs. I often find myself reaching for a grayc glass statement ring to pack since I'm a fan of cocktail rings, the fused glass is beautifully unique and they remind me of home in Chico, no matter how far I travel.
A few of my latest favorites from grayc glass and her blog post featuring Curated Travel
Do you have statement pieces and packing trips for travel?
Throwback Travel: Our Honeymoon in Zihuatanejo
Just yesterday I came across an album of old photographs and was mesmerized by the grainy images, long forgotten, captured between the slightly dusty covers. It was an album of our honeymoon, back at the ‘turn of the century’, in 2000. This was before digital cameras, Facebook check-ins, camera phones, and selfie sticks. It was pure, unadulterated relaxation and romance, just like any honeymoon should be. Due to hurricane season being in full swing in September, we opted for a honeymoon resort on the western coast of Mexico, now known as The Thompson Zihuatanejo.
Honeymoon in Zihuatanejo
Just yesterday I came across an album of old photographs and was mesmerized by the grainy images, long forgotten, captured between the slightly dusty covers. It was an album of our honeymoon, back at the 'turn of the century', in 2000. This was before digital cameras, Facebook check-ins, camera phones, and selfie sticks. It was pure, unadulterated relaxation and romance, just like any honeymoon should be. Due to hurricane season being in full swing in September, we opted for a honeymoon resort on the western coast of Mexico, now known as the Thompson Zihuatanejo.
Bliss, all-inclusive luxury right on the beach.
Playing in the waves
Remembering HIS smile that captured my fancy the first time we met at that conference in San Francisco.
Practicing my mermaid skills in the infinity edged pool.
A reminder that no matter how imperfect we may feel on any given day,
we will look back and remember how easy it was to look this way.
Big beach hair- as usual.
An afternoon at the spa for two - erasing the exhaustion of a move to a new city, an engagement, designing a new build home,
landing a new job, and planning a garden wedding within three months.
One night we caught a taxi to a local restaurant, just up the hill, we had heard about around the pool, Kau-Kan. I will never forget that moment we stepped onto the upper terrace, panoramic views with ethereal music playing in the background. It was pure magic!
La Califfa
It was one of those moments of sensual perfection -- the sights, the sound, the flavors, the scents - that you never want to forget. A honeymoon should be designed to capture those kinds of moments that you reflect on over and over as the years go by.
Memories of a lifetime....
To book: The Thompson Zihuatanejo
or
Contact us at Curated Travel to book your next getaway.
An Afternoon in Picturesque Varenna on the Shores of Lake Como, Italy
There are places you stumble upon while traveling that simply need no explanation. On a hazy summer afternoon, we arrived by boat, from Bellagio. Between flashes of sunlight, bursts of showers, and a moody mist that wound around our afternoon, we experienced Varenna, on the shores of Lake Como. These images speak for themselves. Click on the gallery to open a slide show of charming Varenna.
Varenna, on the shores of Lake Como, Italy
There are places you stumble upon while traveling that simply need no explanation. On a hazy summer afternoon, we arrived by boat, from Bellagio. Between flashes of sunlight, bursts of showers, and a moody mist that wound around our afternoon, we experienced Varenna, on the shores of Lake Como. These images speak for themselves. Click on the gallery to open a slide show of charming Varenna.
When the skies opens up and you find yourself drenched like we were, seek shelter under a covered patio. Order up some yummy comfort food, like this Northern Italian style risotto, enjoy the decadence of the chocolate mousse and enjoy that chilled bottle of sauvignon blanc. We lingered at this lakeside restaurant, enjoying the view, our conversations and making some new friends on this cozy afternoon at Varenna.
Varenna was our last stop in Italy on our summer holiday.
Next stop-- PARIS!
Curated Hotel: Living 'Pura Vida' at Secrets Papagayo in Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Our recent trip to Costa Rica was a travel bucket list item for us as our first trip to Central America. We fell in love with the casual, tropical vibe and the stunning natural beauty that surrounded us. Costa Rica is infused with the attitude of ‘Pura Vida’, more eloquent than mere words can express, it’s an attitude of living the essence of pure life.
Getaway to Secrets Papagayo in Costa Rica
Our recent trip to Costa Rica was a travel bucket list item for us as our first trip to Central America. We fell in love with the casual, tropical vibe and the stunning natural beauty that surrounded us. Costa Rica is infused with the attitude of 'Pura Vida', more eloquent than mere words can express, it's an attitude of living the essence of pure life.
Secrets Papagayo is a luxury, all-inclusive beachfront resort on the peninsula of Papagayo. The intimate collection of low, mostly one-story bungalows, are sprinkled throughout the expansive property, infused with tropical beauty. Chauffeured golf carts are available, at the touch of a button, to whisk you to your destination on the property. Ipads in each suite allow for ordering up spa services, room service and more. An in room 'secret cupboard' allows for your meals and drinks to be delivered to your suite, without being disturbed, with 24-hour room service. Once delivered, a light goes on and you know that your meal has arrived.
Stunning natural beauty abounds in Costa Rica.
secrets-papagayo-costa-rica
Evening at Secrets
From morning yoga on the beach, to kayaking, to wildlife hikes, bike tours, wine tasting dinners with live music, private beachside dinners and dance lessons, Secrets has plenty of options to keep you happy. Spotting the monkeys in the trees was one of the highlights for us. Secrets resorts are known for luxurious spa treatments and a couple's massage has become a must do for our getaways. We also made some fun new friends, always a plus of traveling. Dana and Chandler, see you in Aruba!! ;)
As preferred club members we can reserve a private beach cabana, with full service, for the day. We found this to be a wonderful way to spend a relaxing day (or 6) at the beach.
Food and drink options are limitless at Secrets. From healthy options to decadent dishes you can live it up however you like. With all-inclusive gourmet dining, you don't worry about a thing!
That moment, of taking care of a bit of travel business on my laptop, from this "home office". The stuff of my dreams!
A breakfast serenade at Secrets....
We enjoyed every minute of our getaway to Secrets Papagayo. Each time we visit a resort from the AMResorts group - Secrets, Zoetry, Dreams - we are so impressed with the impecable, friendly service. Staff is trained to make our staff seamless and enjoyable. We feel at home, at each resort, from the moment we are greeted with a friendly smile, served a cool towel, a frosty welcome drink and a "Welcome Home".
Costa Rica, infused with the attitude of 'Pura Vida' -- more eloquent than mere words can express -- it's an attitude of living the essence of pure life.
Costa Rica-you are such a natural beauty! We are taking your 'pura vida' attitude home with us!
To book a getaway to Costa Rica contact me:
For more on Unlimited Luxury at Secrets
Thank you to Unlimited Vacations and Secrets for making our stay so unforgettable!
The HOT List: City Guide - Chico, California
The HOT List: City Guides will feature an ‘in the know’ local sharing hot tips on her hometown. Our first HOT List features a longtime Chico resident, and one of my favorite people, Melanie Drakulic.
The HOT List: Chico
I'm excited to introduce a new series on Style*Mind*Chic Life for my Curated Travel brand. The HOT List: City Guides will feature an 'in the know' local sharing hot tips on her hometown. Our first HOT List features a longtime Chico resident, and one of my favorite people, Melanie Drakulic.
City Guide Bio: My name is Melanie Drakulic and I consider myself a local Chicoan. I was born in San Francisco, CA and moved around a bit from state to state until I was in 6th grade when my family moved to Chico. I attended Chico Junior High, Chico High, Butte College, and Chico State University undergraduate school and graduate school. I’ve been a child, a teen, and an adult in Chico and each stage has brought new insight for me about what a special community Chico really is.
How long have you lived in your city? 33 years (minus a few when we lived in Portland, OR)
3 Words to describe your city? Natural, Seasonal, & Homey
Best place to spend the night? Hotel Diamond is a historic building relatively recently restored and is in the heart of downtown Chico. It is walking distance to many restaurants, bars, and shops. There is also a restaurant and bar in the hotel that offers a fun atmosphere and live music.
Favorite spot for brunch? Nash’s Restaurant has always had a terrific brunch with bottomless champagne. The atmosphere is fun and lively for all ages.
(Mike and the kids)
Favorite place to catch a view? Monkey Face in Upper Bidwell park is a short hike that results in views of Horseshoe Lake, Bidwell Park Golf Course, and the surrounding lower parts of Upper Bidwell Park. Also driving down from Paradise, there is a lookout point where you can clearly view the Butte Creek Canyon that is breathtaking, especially at sunset.
Favorite place for a date night?Fifth Street Steakhouse is our go to for date night. It’s fun to have a drink at the bar and intermingle with the crowd of various friends we run into also out on dates. Then to be seated in their red leather booth in the dimly lit, warmly decorated dining room makes for a perfect setting to enjoy wine and a delish meal.
Describe your favorite meal in town? The Sicilian Café is a locally owned family restaurant in a unique corner of downtown. It is the kind of place you go to spend the evening, not rush through a meal. You start with antipasti, then soup or salad (they have the best homemade blue cheese dressing), your entrée (my favorite is the Chicken Americano, my husband loves the Veal Parmesan), and of course dessert ~ the homemade tiramisu!
Favorite rooftop or dive bar? Of course, Duffy’s is the town favorite. It’s a locally owned dive bar with an eclectic mix of patrons, cheap drinks, a jukebox, sports on TV, lively talk, and down to earth service. And bonus - The Pub Scouts play their traditional Irish music there three nights a week.
Best spot to workout? Upper and Lower Bidwell Park are the best free and natural places to work out. Exercise options range from hiking, running, swimming, mountain biking, roller blading, golfing, etc. There are miles of trails and creeks to explore and work up a sweat on. If you’re looking for gym action, I go to the old tried and true Chico Sports Club. It’s not fancy, and maybe a bit outdated, but the instructors are the best. They make Zumba, Pump, HIT, Yoga, and Pilates fun and calorie burning!
Favorite places to shop? We shop for food at our local co-op S & S produce and Butcher Shop Meats. They provide mostly local, organic products in a quaint and rustic shop. If we are doing retail shopping, I generally head downtown to any of the local boutiques such as Urban Laundry, For Elyse, or Made In Chico. Chico Sports Ltd. And Fleet Feet are also good for sporting and exercise shops.
Favorite natural beauty spot? I really love Butte Creek along Honey Run Road. There are several spots you can pull over and picnic and play in the water along the road all the way up to Honey Run Covered Bridge.
(Melanie - another natural beauty - enjoying the water)
(Jack and Calina walking on rock walls)
Favorite street to wander? I love to wander around the Chico State Campus for its natural beauty with its many different trees, flowers, and the creek that runs through campus. The buildings are also beautiful with the classic brick buildings to more modern designs toward the newer parts of campus. I also like to meander down the little streets between Chico State and Chico High, like on W. Frances Willard to look at the quaint and unique architecture of the homes along that street.
Hidden Gem in your city? I’d have to again reference Bidwell Park, Lower Park & Upper Park. So much to do and see. From Lower Park trails and playgrounds to Upper Park hikes and swimming at stops like Bear Hole and Salmon Hole. So beautiful and accessible.
HOT List City Style Tips: Chico has four full seasons. Your wardrobe will need things for freezing cold, rain, mid 50’s to 60’s, warm sunny days, and blistering hot over 100 degree days. We are casual chic here. Dare I even say a little Bohemian? Well, at least I am ☺. Nothing too formal is necessary in Chico.
Thanks for sharing your HOT List Chico, Melanie. I've known you for 15 years and I still learned some new tips.
Love it when you dish, girlfriend! ;) xx
You know you want to book!
An Afternoon in Beguiling Bellagio on Lake Como
One afternoon Scott and I pointed our rented Peugeot northeast, from our villa in Lezzeno, to beautiful Bellagio for the afternoon. Known for grand hotels, elegant villas, voluptuous flower boxes and stunning views from the steep staircases of the city center. Bellagio is beguiling.
One afternoon Scott and I pointed our rented Peugeot northeast, from our villa in Lezzeno, to beautiful Bellagio for the afternoon. Known for grand hotels, elegant villas, voluptuous flower boxes and stunning views from the steep staircases of the city center. Bellagio is beguiling. Lake Como, in the Northern mountains of the Lombardy region, is breathtakingly beautiful with a chameleon microclimate for weather. In my earlier post of our stay in a lakeside villa, I mentioned the quick changes from cool and breezy, to rain showers, to brilliant sunshine within the space of an afternoon. It's all part of daily life at Lake Como and allows for these showy gardens and flower displays. On this afternoon in July, we appreciated the cool temps and brief rain showers as a break from the summer sun. We did stop to buy an umbrella at a nearby boutique which came in handy once we boarded a ferry later in the afternoon.
Bellagio is beguiling
If you are fortunate to find yourself in Bellagio for an afternoon, enjoy lunch at a tasty trattoria, people watch the colorful locals and tourists, climb the stone steps to pastel framed lake views and plot your next destination on Lake Como. It's easy to access other picturesque ports of call from the ferry center, or better yet, a water taxi.
Learn more about Bellagio on Trip Advisor.
To book your unforgettable trip to Lake Como contact me at Curated Travel.
