A Game-Changing Solo Trip to Italy (plus essential packing tips)
I'm reminiscing on a game-changing solo trip I took to Italy three years ago this week. Though I’ve enjoyed several Italian adventures in the years following this entire travel experience opened new doors for my Curated Travel business and reaffirmed my staunch adoration for the magic, beauty, and deliciousness of Italy and the charm and verve of the Italians. Plus, I learned some essential packing strategies I will never forget!
villa balbiano on Lake Como
I'm reminiscing on a game-changing solo trip I took to Italy three years ago this week. Though I’ve enjoyed several Italian adventures in the years following this entire travel experience opened new doors for my Curated Travel business and reaffirmed my staunch adoration for the magic, beauty, and deliciousness of Italy and the charm and verve of the Italians. Plus, I learned some essential packing strategies I will never forget!
I remember how anxious I was about flying to Europe solo for the first time, without my husband, and how daunting it was to be without my carefully packed luggage (a panic!) until the final leg of the trip. I learned how to put my best foot forward despite wearing sneakers to a fancy dinner party at Villa d’Este at Lake Como, how to lead with a smile to distract from my thrice-worn outfit, and that I was bold enough to seek out this adventure and make the most of every moment. I also learned to alter my packing strategies so I’m that never caught without the necessities again.
Below is a collection of blog posts from this transformative journey and if you are missing Italy like I am, I hope you enjoy the views. These photos feel like old friends and I am reminded how I, like so many of my clients, can barely wait to get back to dreamy Italia.
Ciao!! I have just arrived home from my 10-day luxury travel event in Northern Italy. My jet-lagged brain is a kaleidoscope of brilliant colors, scintillating views, the sparkle of chandeliers, prosecco toasts, and the delectable flavors of Northern Italian cuisine. - Curated Travel Blog
Posts are in chronological order starting on the lower right. Ciao!
Our Second Curated Travel Group Cruise Sets Sail on the Mediterranean
Our second group cruise hosted by Curated Travel embarked from Venice on September 28th, 2019. Following a couple of days exploring the iconic charms of Venice our group of friends/clients (who’ve become friends) was ready to set sail on the Azamara Pursuit on a boutique-style smaller ship cruise cruising the Dalmatian and Amalfi Coasts.
Our second group cruise hosted by our very own Curated Travel embarked from Venice on September 28th, 2019. Following a couple of days exploring the iconic charms of Venice our group of friends/clients (who’ve become friends) was ready to set sail on the Azamara Pursuit on a boutique-style smaller ship cruise cruising the Dalmatian and Amalfi Coasts.
Life onboard the Azamara Pursuit includes all-inclusive luxury and just about every amenity you can imagine: fresh flowers, luxury linens, robes & slippers, unlimited beverages, free bottled water, gratuities, 24 hour room service and much more.
Our first stop on this Dalmatian and Amalfi Coast cruise was Koper in Slovenia where we enjoyed exploring the colorful village plus a complimentary ‘Azamara AzAmazing’ concert onshore for our evening entertainment.
In Sibenik, Croatia, we toured the historic city center, were awed by the ornate cathedral and enjoyed local seafood and wines.
Our complimentary Virtuoso day trip to charming Kotor included a private walking tour, a visit to the museum, a wine tasting on the private terrace, a boat ride out to Our Lady of the Rock plus a foodie style seafood lunch at the chic Regent Porto Montenegro one of our preferred brand partners.
Corfu, Greece!
Cerulean waters, golden beaches and panoramic views for days.
The next day ushered in a charming stroll on the Corso Umberto high on the mountain in Taoramina, Sicily.
Scott and I discovered a gem for lunch serving mouthwatering pizza, cannoli and local wine with views of the sea.
For obvious charm and this pizza, Taoramina was one of our favorite stops.
Our final full day included a boatride along the stunning Amalfi Coast and an aperitif (with a side of shopping!) in Positano.
Our only rule? Celebrate Everything!
The White Night Party, a ‘BIG’ birthday plus a heartwarming engagement!!
Our Mediterranean cruise was even more fun than we could’ve imagined. Just reviewing these photos to create the post makes me smile. A big thank you to our friends for joining us on the Amalfi & Damaltian Coasts cruise and to Azamara for the fabulous service and amenities.
For more on our trip visit our pre-cruise stop in Venice plus Scott and I explore Puglia at Canne Bianche Lifestyle post-cruise.
For More on Curated Travel in Italy:
A Sunny Visit to the Coast of Puglia + Beachfront Chic at Canne Bianche Lifestyle
Puglia, on the eastern coast of Italy, has recently risen to the top of my destinations to explore in Italy. When I learned that our Mediterranean cruise would be ending in Rome, I jumped at the chance to finish up our trip to this beachy, sunswept region.
Well hello there! It’s been a while since I’ve had the time to post on the blog. Our Curated Travel group cruise on the Med was a smashing success and we are already planning our next one (yes, it was that much fun!). Let me know if you want information. Today, I’m excited to share our latest discovery and thank you for being here.
Puglia, on the eastern coast of Italy, has recently risen to the top of my destinations to explore in Italy. When I learned that our Mediterranean cruise would be ending in Rome, I jumped at the chance to finish our trip in this beachy, sunswept region.
Yes, there is a lounge chair with your name on it!
We arrived at Canne Bianche Lifestyle following a leisurely drive through the Italian countryside from Rome. The seaside location is windswept and fresh with beautiful sea views. It’s the perfect place to relax. We found the resort to be charming. It’s beach chic style with a remarkably friendly staff.
Our spacious suite was appointed with a canopy bed, two full bathrooms, a separate living area and an extra large balcony. After being on a cruise ship for a week the two bathrooms and closets were a true luxury, believe me. The views from our roomy balcony were simply lovely with morning coffee fresh from the Nespresso machine ensuite.
One goal of our trip was to explore and the other was to relax. We made good use of the hydro spa and a delightful couple’s massage one day at Canne Bianche. We enjoyed several foodie meals at T_IMO the onsite restaurant.
Ever since I first saw images of the coneshaped ‘trulli’ architectural style of Puglia I was intrigued. Our day dawned sunny with brilliant blue skies and puffy clouds. A beautiful background for our visit.
“A trullo (plural, trulli) is a traditional Apulian dry stone hut with a conical roof. Their style of construction is specific to the Itria Valley, in the Murge area of the Italian region of Apulia. Trulli generally were constructed as temporary field shelters and storehouses or, as permanent dwellings by small proprietors or agricultural labourers. In the town of Alberobello, in the province of Bari, whole districts contain dense concentrations of trulli. The golden age of trulli was the nineteenth century, especially its final decades, which were marked by the development of wine growing.”
Lunch at Pavi in Locorotondo
Our 3 day stay allowed for visits to Alberobello, Martina Franca, Locorotondo (stunning views at lunch), Ostuni and Fasano. There is a wealth of beauty in this region to explore.
Thank you to my travel brand partner, Nicola, for arranging this lovely stay and the upgraded suite at Canne Bianche Lifestyle in Torre Canne.
Contact me to book your stay and to learn more about travels in Italy here.
Recent Posts from Curated Travel Blog
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
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.
Announcing the Curated Travel Mediterranean Cruise with Azamara Club Class-Join Us!
I have an exciting announcement! Curated Travel sets sail on the azure blue Mediterranean seas with Azamara Club Cruises September 28th-October 5th, 2019. Ports of call include Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, Greece, Sicily, Amalfi Coast and Rome on this 7-night cruise. Scott and I are thrilled to offer this hand-selected itinerary in a boutique sized ship of just 600+ passengers. The experience is like a boutique style hotel on the water!
I have an exciting announcement! Curated Travel sets sail on the azure blue Mediterranean sea with Azamara Club Cruises September 28th-October 5th, 2019. Ports of call include Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, Greece, Sicily, Amalfi Coast and Rome on this 7-night cruise. Scott and I are thrilled to offer this hand-selected itinerary in a boutique sized ship of just 600+ passengers. The experience is like a boutique-style hotel on the water!
Book with us soon to receive the ‘Buy One Get One Half-Price Sale’ (includes free wifi) plus Virtuoso perks and VIP amenities. We can hardly wait to set sail and would love to have you join us on this bucket list itinerary. Contact us below for more details and to book your double upgrade today.
Booking Terms: Deposit is due within 5 days and final payment is not due until May 31, 2019.
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Curated Travel Cruises the Mediterranean and YOU are invited! |
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September 28th-October 5th, 2019 |
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Escape to the azure blue Mediterranean with us on an Azamara Club Cruise!
Venice.Slovenia.Croatia.Montenegro.Corfu.Sicily.Amalfi.Rome
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What do we love? Small boutique style cruise ship (only 694 passengers), access to smaller ports, longer/late night stays for full enjoyment of destinations and tons of all-inclusive amenities. It's like a floating boutique hotel and unpacking only once!
DEALS: Buy one fare and get one half-price from now until Feb. 28th! Includes free wifi for one passenger.
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Includes Virtuoso Voyages VIP amenities and perks! |
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“Arrive early in Venice and be immersed in this scenic city of cobblestone streets, overarching bridges, and world-famous canals. After crossing the Adriatic to Koper, Slovenia for a late stay, discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Skocjan Caves, home of the largest underground canyon in the world, and visit the Old Town, with historic sites like the Praetorian Palace and the beautiful square of Titov Trg.
In Sibenik, Croatia, a major wine-producing region, enjoy a local red babić and pair it with freshly caught Adriatic seafood. One of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities, Kotor, Montenegro, is our next destination, then it’s on to the Greek Island of Corfu, home to turquoise blue waters and gorgeous sandy beaches. In Giardini Naxos and Taormina, Sicily, stroll the Corso Umberto for amazing shopping, and climb to the Teatro Greco, a Roman arena with breathtaking views of the sea.
The next day in Amalfi, savor some chilled limoncello, explore its popular beaches, and be amazed by this steep, picturesque town. Where better to conclude than the Eternal City? We debark in Rome, where there are enough landmarks, shopping and incredible cuisine to last a few more days—if not a lifetime!” - Azamara Cruises
A Postcard from Sun-Splashed Tuscany
It’s early morning in Tuscany and the sun is just waking up the autumn hued hills. There is faint citrus scented breeze and a lavender mist winding over the distant mountains. The birds, who believe they are the kings of the castel, are twirping. Tuscany is pretty perfect in fall. Cool mornings and sun-drenched golden days are on the calendar. The evening sunsets are spectacular!
It’s early morning in Tuscany and the sun is just waking up the autumn hued hills. There is faint citrus scented breeze and a lavender mist winding over the distant mountains. The birds, who believe they are the kings of the castel, are twirping. Tuscany is pretty perfect in fall. Cool mornings and sun-drenched golden days are on the calendar. The evening sunsets are spectacular!
Mr. C.T. and I are having a fantastic time exploring the best of Tuscany and revisiting some old favorite spots. For my travel clients in Tuscany now, and those arriving soon, this will be an unforgettable trip Italiano for you. If you are interested in learning more about travel to Italy contact me at Curated Travel.
Follow the latest of our travels on Curated Travel Instagram:
An Elegant Party at Villa Balbiano on Lake Como in Italy (Part Five)
It was a chilly day at Lake Como but that didn't stop our Travelux 2018 group from feeling warm and celebratory for our final party of this truly memorable luxury travel event. Villa Balbiano, with roots in the mid 16th century, has recently been renovated by the famous French designer Jacques Garcia. An invitation to a party in this splendor was one of the highlights of my trip to Italy and it took my breath away.
It was a chilly day at Lake Como, but that didn't stop our Travelux 2018 group from feeling warm and celebratory for our final party of this memorable luxury travel event. Villa Balbiano, with roots in the mid-16th century, has recently been renovated by the famous French designer Jacques Garcia. An invitation to a party in this splendor was one of the highlights of my trip to Italy and it took my breath away.
We arrived at the famed Villa Balbiano by boat from Villa d'Este. Crossing gravel paths lined with picturesque gardens and grand statuary, there was an early spring mist, an ethereal beauty in the air, that set the stage for this elegant event. Once we entered the Villa Balbiano we were greeted with warm smiles, sparkling glasses of prosecco and opulent decor. The architectural details are embellished by the exquisite frescoed ceilings, luxurious fabrics in jewel-toned colors, handcarved furniture, extravagant floral arrangements and jaw-dropping views of Lake Como from every vantage.
“Situated between Il Dosso di Lavedo and the Comacine Island, Villa Balbiano is one of the most important historical properties on the shores of Lake Como. The history of Villa Balbiano can be traced back to mid 16th century and is strongly linked to the noble Giovio family who used it as their residence. At the end of 16th century, the Villa was sold to Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio, who redesigned the original palazzo after the drawings of Pellegrino Tibaldi. A century later, in 1787, Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini, politician and patron of the arts, acquired the Villa. Enlarged and embellished, Villa Balbiano was used to host a gallant and frivolous society where festivals, banquets and dances followed one by another relentlessly.”
A number of the interior shots for the Gwen Stefani video, "Cool", were filmed at Villa Balbiano. See if you can spot them!
Villa Balbiano is available to rent and is perfect for a destination wedding, family reunion, girlfriends getaway, or incentive trip for business professionals.
Learn more about Villa Balbiano and the Heritage Collection
Contact me to book Villa Balbiano or to find the perfect villa for your next getaway.
Here is a list of additional villas (and specials!) found in the menu above at Curated Villas.
For more on my visit to Italy last spring:
A Sunny Visit to San Remo, A Luxury Travel Event at Lake Como, Villa Views, An Italian Spa Getaway
Many thanks to Nebe Club/Travelux 2018 and the Heritage Collection for the invitation to this extraordinary event in Italy.
An Italian Spa Getaway in Abano (Part Four)
After being reunited with my luggage, just as we left the hotel in Lake Como, our driver headed to the Abano Grand Hotel in Abano. It was a cold and rainy day but our welcome at the Abano Grand Hotel could not have been more warm and welcoming. As I was introduced to my spacious 'Panorama View' suite I was captivated by the view.
Following our final event at Lake Como for Travelux 2018, our driver swung back to the hotel where I was finally reunited with my luggage, on day 6 of my trip to Italy. The pickup was successful and our driver headed east towards Venice to the Grand Hotel in Abano. It was a cold and rainy day but our welcome at the Abano Grand couldn't have been warmer or more welcoming at this luxury spa resort.
As I was introduced to my spacious 'Panorama View' suite I was captivated by the view and the welcoming fruit basket and bottle of chilled prosecco. It felt wonderful to have my suitcase and belongings. I was finally able to unpack, for the first time on this trip, day 7! I informed my traveling companions, now friends, who knew all about my lost luggage, that I would likely change outfits three times a day just because I finally had options again.
Our itinerary at the Abano Grand included several complimentary spa treatments, a tour of the premises/additional local properties as well as semi-formal cocktails and dinners each evening. There was also free time to enjoy the thermal pools, both inside and out. On this stormy day, I took a swim in the expansive outdoor pool. Lost in the steamy waters and relaxing my cares away, snowflakes started to fall. It was truly a sensory experience (catching snowflakes on my tongue) that I'll never forget.
“For your Italian vacation under the banner of wellness and relaxation, choose the exclusive GB Thermae Hotels in the heart of Abano Terme, the largest thermal waters area of Europe located in the vicinity of Venice. All GB luxury hotels offer large thermal indoor pools connected to the outdoor, large parks for relaxing walks and exclusive SPAS with sources of healing waters, where to take good care of yourself thanks to the numerous beneficial properties of mud therapy.
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The spa treatment regimen began with a 60-minute evaluation performed by a spa physician to assess wellness. Based on my specific profile, I was prescribed a unique set of treatments. My program included a mud bath (You can't be modest for this one ;), a 90-minute hydrating facial, and a 60-minute lymphatic drainage massage. Each treatment left me feeling relaxed and renewed. Adding in water treatments from the thermal pools, steam room, sauna, circulation pools circuits to the spa time enhances the health benefits of the treatments. The physician told me that Italians will typically stay at the health spa for a week at a time for daily treatments to achieve the maximum wellness benefits.
Though I finally had my luggage and 9 days worth of unworn clothing, I discovered it is essential to wear the white fluffy robes, and slippers, from one stop to another at the spa resort. I can definitely get behind this kind of relaxing environment and attire while on a luxury travel tour.
Our tour of the hotels one afternoon revealed the diverse style of the GB Hotels brand. While some properties cater to the classic, Italian decor and spa style, other hotels had contemporary decor and a fresh, stylish vibe at the spa. With 5 spa hotels in the GB Hotels brand, it is easy to find the perfect fit for those seeking a preferred spa resort experience.
While days were spent in fluffy robes, reveling in the spa, our evenings were filled with semi-formal cocktail parties with our hosts and fellow travel professionals. Meals were elegant, tasty menus created by the chef from regional cuisine with impeccable service from the staff. The hotel even provided entertainment which made a spontaneous dance party, Italian style, a must.
Our one trip away from the spa hotel was a lovely afternoon visit to the jewel of a city, Padua. I'll share more on my discoveries in Padua in an upcoming post.
Following a few days in San Remo on the Italian Riviera, 3 days at Lake Como for Travelux 2018, the luxury travel event, enjoying 3 days at an Italian Spa resort was perfect planning. I highly recommend a stay at any of the GB Thermae Hotels in Abano. This spa retreat could be a short getaway after touring Italy or even a destination following a stay in Venice. It would also make a wonderful girlfriends' group getaway.
My thanks to the team at GB Thermae Hotels, especially Chiara Borile, Daria, Paolo, Simone and Carlo for your gracious hospitality, luxury suite, spa treatments and lovely spa products. Thank you to Nebe Club and Travelux 2018 for creating this memorable luxury travel opportunity.
To book a visit to a GB Spa Hotels or to create a group spa trip, contact me at Curated Travel.