Heather Lindstrom 12/29/25 Heather Lindstrom 12/29/25

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

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

Heather Lindstrom 4/14/25 Heather Lindstrom 4/14/25

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!

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.
”

— Explora Journeys

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

Portofino Visit from Curated Travel — One of my favorite stops - Portofino on the Italian Riviera!

Heather Lindstrom 3/19/25 Heather Lindstrom 3/19/25

Packing Guide for a Stylish European Getaway from Curated Travel

Europe is calling, and it’s no surprise—it’s the most popular destination for Curated Travel clients right now! With so many clients getting ready to pack, I wanted to share some stylish tips to make packing a breeze and keep it stress-free. Let’s make those suitcases as chic as the journey ahead!

The Ultimate Guide to Packing for a

Stylish European Getaway

Planning a two-week adventure across Europe's cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and chic cafés is thrilling! But packing? That can be daunting—especially if you're aiming to stay stylish while traveling light. Fear not: I've got you covered. Here's a foolproof guide to packing smart yet chic for your dream European getaway.

1. Elevate Your Wardrobe Staples

Minimalism meets luxury in a chic European wardrobe. Opt for high-quality fabrics and timeless cuts.

Tops: Choose silky blouses, tailored shirts, and a sleek black turtleneck for extra flair.
Sweaters: Layer a sweater over a tank or button-up and you can remove it when the sun comes out or keep it on when the breeze picks up.
Bottoms: A pair of tailored trousers, high-waisted jeans, and a satin midi skirt will strike the perfect balance of casual and refined.
Dresses: Pack a LBD (little black dress) or one in white for evenings and a couple of breezy shirt dresses for daytime exploring.
Outerwear: A trench coat screams classic European style, but if you're visiting during cooler months, a camel wool coat will keep you warm and stylish.

Pro Tip: Stick to a neutral color palette with pops of jewel tones for a wardrobe that’s easy to mix and match.

2. Shoes That Marry Comfort and Glamour

Footwear needs to be functional without compromising on style.

Stylish Sneakers: A European must-have! Choose clean, minimalist sneakers in leather or suede for sightseeing days.
Heeled Boots: Ankle boots with a block heel or low kitten heel add height without sacrificing comfort.
Chic Flats: Pointed-toe ballet flats (or my go-to here) or loafers are perfect for museum visits or casual brunches.
Dressy Shoes: Cobblestones and high heels do not play well together. One pair of lightweight nude or sparkly kitten-heeled sandals can do the trick if chic dinners are on the itinerary.

Pro Tip: Pack in shoe bags to keep your luggage pristine!

3. Accessories with Panache

Accessories make or break an outfit, and Europeans know how to do “understated yet striking” like no other.

Crossbody Bag: A structured leather bag with gold details adds instant sophistication.
Small Clutch: A clutch with a touch of shine for evening events.
Sunglasses: Oversized frames (and here) are both chic and practical.
Scarves: Opt for a silk scarf to tie around your neck, wrist, or even your bag for a touch of Parisian flair.
Jewelry: Go bold with a statement cuff or earrings for evenings, but stick to minimalist gold or silver pieces by day.
Belt: A reversible belt (with gold hardware) is the perfect addition to complete your look.

4. Create a Capsule Wardrobe

Carefully plan your outfits around key pieces that can be layered and styled in multiple ways.

Pair your trousers with a silky blouse and trench coat for a polished daytime look.
Transition your satin midi skirt to the evening with the addition of a black turtleneck and bold jewelry.
A shirt dress can be dressed down with sneakers or elevated with heels and a scarf.

Your mantra: fewer items, better quality.

5. Beauty in the Details

European beauty is all about enhancing your natural features. Pack a streamlined collection of products:

Skincare: Hydrating serum here or here, SPF, and a night cream to combat travel fatigue.
Makeup: A sheer foundation, bold red lipstick (a Parisian favorite), and a versatile eyeshadow palette.
Haircare: Travel-sized hair products (my favorite brand, Ouai), dry shampoo, and a silk scrunchie to keep your blowout intact.

Pro Tip: Opt for refillable travel containers here and here to stay eco-chic.

6. Smart Packing Techniques

Keep everything organized and wrinkle-free with packing cubes. Roll your dresses and tops, and use a garment bag for your coat or blazer. Don’t forget a laundry bag for worn items—it keeps the rest of your clothes fresh.

7. Essentials for the Sophisticated Explorer

Documents: Passport, copies of important IDs, and any travel confirmations.
Adapters: A sleek universal adapter for all your devices.
Notebook: A stylish leather-bound journal for jotting down memories.
Reusable Water Bottle: Opt for an elegant stainless-steel bottle.
A Touch of Home: A travel candle or small fragrance spray to elevate your accommodation's ambiance.

Tops:

4 stylish tops (mix of casual and semi-formal for flexibility)
2 dressy blouses for dinners or events
2 lightweight layering pieces, like cardigans or a cropped sweater
Layering T-shirts

Bottoms:

2 pairs of well-fitted jeans (dark wash for versatility)
1 pair of tailored trousers or a midi skirt
1 -2 pairs of comfortable yet chic pants (like culottes or wide-leg trousers)

Dresses/Rompers:

2-3 casual day dresses
1 elegant evening dress (neutral or classic for easy accessorizing) or jumpsuit

Outerwear:

1 trench coat or stylish lightweight jacket or blazer (depending on the season)
1 compact rain jacket and/or travel umbrella

Activewear/PJs:

1 set of activewear for walking tours or light exercise
2 pairs of comfortable sleepwear (my pick: pajama sets)
Undergarments - keep them comfortable and multi-use
Swimsuit and caftan

Make Room for European Treasures

Leave space for boutique finds—whether it’s a vintage scarf from a Paris flea market or artisanal ceramics from Florence. A foldable tote bag will carry your discoveries with ease.

More hot tips on preparing for international travel here.

Are you traveling in 2025? What’s your first chic stop on the itinerary? Paris, the Amalfi Coast, Barcelona, or somewhere off the beaten path? I would love to hear more about your travel ideas. Let’s connect!

Ciao! Ciao!

Heather

Message us to plan your next trip!

Heather Lindstrom 1/2/25 Heather Lindstrom 1/2/25

Reflecting on 2024 at Curated Travel

2024 has been nothing short of a whirlwind adventure here at Curated Travel! My passport collected stamps from old & new destinations that have left indelible marks on my heart and memories that will last a lifetime. Isn’t that what we love most about travel?

View from the Gritti Palace in Venice During Travelux 2024

Reflecting on Curated Travel 2024

From savoring the historic charms of Florence and the verdant views of Tuscany to the Amalfi Coast’s gems like Sorrento, Positano, and Ravello. The romantic canals of Venice and Trieste’s historic elegance added unique touches to my European escapades before/after Travelux 2024. The brilliant waters of Turks & Caicos, following LE Miami, and the golden beaches of Los Cabos added much-appreciated tropical vibes to the year.

Fall on the French and Italian Rivieras with my husband, relishing the picturesque charms of Portofino, Santa Margherita, and Sardinia’s rugged coastline. Pure magic, with the glamorous beaches and charming coastal towns as well as sailing on our ‘boutique hotel on the water’ with Seabourn Cruises. A trip to Newport Beach for our spectacular annual Cadence Connects event with esteemed travel friends and colleagues rounded out the travel year to perfection. Meeting with destination partners and hoteliers along the way tremendously enriches the travel experiences I can provide to our fabulous clients. I call it a win-win!

What’s ahead for 2025? We are thrilled that our clients are traveling to the UK, Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Germany, Costa Rica, Mexico, Turks & Caicos, and Africa and we are only at the start of the brand new year.

Finally, we have just a couple of suites left on our group cruise on Explora II ‘Journey to White Island Bohemia and Italian Riviera Romance’ setting sail September 22-29, 2025, from Barcelona ending in Rome. Email me for more info on this tantalizing itinerary. We would love to have you join us and this fabulous group of travelers already booked!

Looking forward to making travel dreams come true again in 2025.

Cheers from Curated Travel to our fabulous clients, partners, and you!

Heather

Heather Lindstrom 12/4/24 Heather Lindstrom 12/4/24

Holiday Gift Guide from a Luxury Travel Advisor for 2024

It's been ages since I last created a holiday gift guide, but as a luxury travel advisor always on the go, I've discovered some truly chic essentials. I've curated a selection of my tried-and-true favorites, straight from my personal travel collection and recent shopping sprees.

This holiday gift guide is designed for the stylish explorers in your life (including you!). It features a carefully curated mix of thoughtful and practical items to elevate any travel experience. These gifts aren't just useful for the journey—they also help cherish those travel memories once you're back home.

Finding the perfect travel gifts is a delightful journey in itself. Here are some chic and functional options that blend style and practicality, perfect for any travel enthusiast.

A holiday gift guide for the traveler in your life:

Hello, fabulous travelers!

Finding the perfect travel gifts is a delightful journey in itself. Here are some chic and functional options that blend style and practicality, perfect for any travel enthusiast.

Happy gifting!

Packing/Luggage:

Delsey Paris with matching tote and here are my favorites.

A Weekender Bag (with shoe compartment) - Pictured is my Beis version or similar.

Totes - The Sak Los Feliz and Madewell and Scout Daytripper- A must for travel (plus they make the perfect gift!).

Hanging Toiletries Bag - Perfect size for packing light.

Bagsmart Compression Packing Cubes - I’ve tried several and these have the best compression.

Pill Organizer - To keep your wellness items organized.

11 Pack Travel Bottles for Toiletries - A must for taking my favorite products along.

During Travel:

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones in White Smoke

Electronics Organizer To keep the cords organized.

Airplane Travel Phone Holder - Comes in handy for flights with no screens.

Matisse Silk Eye Sleeping Mask or here - For on the plane and every night.

Weatherman Compact Umbrella - A small umbrella is a must-have for any season.

Travel Style:

Coach Cross Body Bag - A must for hands-free travel.

Women’s Sweater Set - I have this one in ivory - perfect for travel.

Transitional Travel Jacket - I bought this jacket in both black and white this season.

Ecco Soft Sneakers - Who doesn’t need a little shine in their life?

Magnetic Hat Clip - A must for us hat-wearers!

Gold Bangle Kate Spade - I keep my jewelry simple while traveling and a single gold bangle is timeless.

Dalle Piane 100% Cashmere Wrap Made in Italy - Cozy for the plane and during travel.

Fitbit Luxe Special Edition - I can’t live without my steps and sleep tracker. I love this collaboration with Gorjana!

RFID Slim Passport Holder - Comes in an array of delicious colors.

Skincare & Makeup:

French Skincare: Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre for extra skin hydration during flights.

Mario Badescu Facial Spray - Hydrates, rejuvenates & clarifies skin.

NUXE Huile Prodigieuse Riche Nourishing Oil - Intense Hydration & Luxurious Radiant Glow for Face, Body & Hair,

Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerize Rose Gold - Highly pigmented, just a swipe on the eyelid lasts all day with a perfect pop of color.

Julep Eyeshadow Sticks - Easy, breezy for a little shine in a stick.

Urban Decay Naked 2 Basics - A lovely palette for travel.

Long-Lasting Nail Lacquer - Londontown Bubble - Long-lasting is essential for travel. Another favorite shade here.

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask - Super luxurious lip care.

Charlotte Tilbury - The Super Nudes Lipstick - Supermodel or the Pillow Talk Set is a favorite!

Nécessaire - The Deodorant Gel Eucalyptus - Aluminum-Free Deodorant for Women & Men (it works!)

Fragrance

Italian Fragrance - Acqua Di Parma Colonia Eau De Cologne Spray - I was gifted this sunny fragrance at the Gritti Palace in Venice.

I discovered the Soleil Eau de Parfum - A signature summertime fragrance I discovered in Eze on the French Riviera.

Acqua Dell Elba Blu Eau de Parfum Woman - Another favorite from travels I discovered on the Island of Elba, Italy.

Perfume Travel Refillable Bottle Leather - Turns my favorite scents into a travel-sized version.

I love a coffee table book to remind me of my favorite travels:

Assouline: Lake Como Idyll and Amalfi Coast

Pamela Fiori - In the Spirit of St. Barths and In the Spirit of Capri

Slim Aarons: La Dolce Vita and Poolside

Gray Malin: Italy and Beaches

Candles create an evocative memory of a time and place:

Diptyque Tubereuse Candle- Trip to Paris 2012.

Acqua Di Parma LA CASA LAGO Candle - Trip to the Italian Lake District 2022.

Acqua Dell'Elba Mare Scented Candle - Trip to Portoferraio, Elba in 2023.

To Bring the Memories Home:

Frameo Digital Photo Frame - To enjoy your travel images at home or to share.

‘Smells Like She’s Planning Another Trip’ Candle - Just for fun - for the travel planner in your life!

Heather Lindstrom 9/29/23 Heather Lindstrom 9/29/23

Setting Sail On the French Riviera!

Just a quick check-in during a flurry of packing and prepping to catch a flight to the French Riviera tomorrow bright and early. Scott and I will land in Nice, and spend a few days enjoying the Riviera while based in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Later we will board the Seabourn Sojourn in Monte Carlo for the 10-Day Tyrrhenian Treasures & Malta with a sparkling itinerary. Stops include Italy, France, Malta (a first for us!), and end in Spain where we will finish up with a few relaxing days in Barcelona before heading home. We are honored to be invited to host this cruise for the Virtuoso Voyages group onboard. When I tell you this cruise sold out fast - it was sold out one day after I posted our announcement!

If you have travel on your horizon and need tips here is an article that may be helpful in preparing for international travel. DM me with questions about our specific itinerary or the regions we will be experiencing along the way.