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
Next up on our trip to France: Provence
Tuscany: A Walk Down Memory Lane at Villa il Poggiale
Our visit to Villa il Poggiale was everything we dreamed it would be—graced with these views, gardens of lemons, rosemary, lavendar and roses, the gleaming sun soaked swimming pool and Tuscan charm. Our visit made an indelible imression on my mind.
There are those places you visit that leave an indelible mark when you look back with your mind’s eye. It may be the views, the scent in the air, texture of soft grass or crunchy gravel or the way the sun hits the horizon. Somehow, you are transported back to that moment in time.
Close your eyes, can you see your place?
Mr. C.T. and I discovered just such a place on our first trip to Italy back in 2003. I’m not even sure how I discovered charming Villa il Poggiale in Tuscany, but the photos I saw online embodied Tusan beauty and I knew it was our place. We were practically newlyweds and this couldn’t help but be a romantic getaway.
Our visit was everything we dreamed it would be—graced with these views, gardens of lemons, rosemary, lavendar and roses, the gleaming sun soaked swimming pool and Tuscan charm. Our visit made an indelible imression on my mind.
Flash to 2018 and we were more than excited to retrace our steps down memory lane at Villa il Poggiale. I think you will see why we are so enamoured.
A peek at our suite.
The romantic sunset views with a capture of a wonderful honeymoon couple from UK that we enjoyed getting to know.
My happy place!
We truly can’t thank the staff at Villa il Poggiale for making our return visit incredibly memorable. Special thanks to Irene and Monica. Villa il Poggiale is a place I send a number of clients with rave reviews. If you are interested in learning more or booking contact me at Curated Travel.
For more on our trip to Tuscany:
Our Tuscan Spa Getaway to Fonteverde
Postcard from Paris, Provence and the Cote d'Azur
Paris, Provence and the Cote d’Azur. These destinations, though different in feel, bring to mind a kalidescope of colors, textures, flavors and views of this picturesque country. Though it is late March we’re enjoying mostly sunny days and warm breezes on the French Riviera. Rain in Paris only adds to the watercolor effect of shimmering streets.
Paris, Provence and the Cote d’Azur. These destinations, though different in feel, bring to mind a kalidescope of colors, textures, flavors and views of this picturesque country. Though it is late March we’re enjoying mostly sunny days and warm breezes on the French Riviera. Rain in Paris only adds to the watercolor effect of shimmering streets. Mr. C.T. and I are loving every moment of this magnifique tour of Paris, Provence and the Cote d’Azur and I look forward to sharing more travel inspiration on the blog upon our return.
Bien à vous ,
Heather
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
A view of our 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.
A Sumptuous Stay and Spa Experience at Bagni Di Pisa & Grotta Giusti in Tuscany
Our next stop on our spa getaway to Tuscany was the classic Italian spa retreat at Bagni Di Pisa. Here we enjoyed gourmet dining, fine wines with our impressive sommelier and luxurious spa treatments. One of the most interesting elements to this retreat is the history. Our two room suite, loaded with classic Italian charm, was a sumptuous blend of luxury and historic style. Was it the Dalai Lama or Richard Gere that stayed in our suite?
Our next stop on our spa getaway to Tuscany was the classic Italian spa retreat at Bagni Di Pisa. Here we enjoyed gourmet dining, fine wines with our impressive sommelier and luxurious spa treatments. One of the most interesting elements to this retreat is the history. Our two-room suite, loaded with classic Italian charm, was a sumptuous blend of luxury and historic style. Was it the Dalai Lama or Richard Gere that stayed in our suite?
“The majestic spa residence was originally built in 1743 for Francesco Stefano of Lorena, the Grand Duke of Tuscany. Over the centuries, it has hosted royalty, dignitaries, and celebrities as the destination of choice for a relaxing retreat with unrivalled wellness offerings. Today, Bagni di Pisa is world renowned for as a hotel and spa that honours the 18th century charm with frescoed ceilings, extravagant furnishings, floral gardens and captivating nature. With a collection of pools and thermal treatment rooms, ancient treasures of art and history, innovative wellness facilities and delectable culinary masterpieces, Bagni di Pisa is where one can truly disconnect from the world and immerse into to a world of beauty and healing.”
Bagni di Pisa
Our suite, where celebrities and inspirational leaders alike have stayed, was luxurious and cozy at the same time. Italian Hospitality Collection was delightfully generous to welcome us with fruits, wine and sweets.
A tour of our suite featuring Mr. C.T.
The next day we took a trip to Grotta Giusti to experience the thermal spas and underground grotto. Celebratory cocktails and dinner followed our revitalizing day at the spa with our final night on the spa tour. What we had with this group of new friends exploring spas in Tuscany.
“A PLACE OF DISCOVERY AND REVELATION.
OUR REFURBISHED HOTEL WITH SPA, SET IN THE TUSCAN COUNTRYSIDE.
A nineteenth-century villa, restored to its original splendour with meticulous care and attention to every detail. Today it welcomes guests with inlaid wood floors, refurbished rooms, parquet flooring, new lighting, new colours that enhance the rooms and the mood, and all the comforts of a beautiful hotel. It is elegantly furnished, decorated with frescoes, surrounded by an age-old park, and has a unique thermal spa.
Inside unexpected treasures await: a unique and wonderful grotto, a thermal spring, a deep, warm underground lake and spectacular chambers, where the temperature is set as if it were a living and breathing organism.
The villa above the grotto is now a place where you can experience a kind of new harmony, with the Equilibrium method. Water, stone, heat, art and history all make it a place that heals and comforts. Discover the splendid new Grotta Giusti where you can reconnect with nature, like a new discovery and a new revelation.”
Learn more on Bagni di Pisa and Grotta Giusti. If you are interested in booking a spa getaway I highly recommend these resorts as well as Fonteverde from my previous post. Contact me to book VIP perks and upgrades on an unforgettable spa getaway in Italy. Contact Curated Travel.
Our thanks to Cristina Morellini and the Italian Hospitality Collection for the warm welcome and generous hospitality.
Grotta Giusti
Our Spa Getaway to Fonteverde in Tuscany with Italian Hospitality Collection
Last fall I received an invitation to visit a collection of spa resorts, the Italian Hospitality Collection, in Tuscany. Let’s just say our host, Cristina Morellini, had me at ‘ciao!’ with this invitation. I’m a fan of spa hotels in general and when they are based in Tuscany I’m over the moon. Our first stop on the itinerary was the classically beautiful Fonteverde Spa resort located in San Casciano dei Bagni. A scenic train ride from Rome, a lift from our private driver, and we arrived at this blissful spot with the goal of relaxation and rejuvenation Tuscan style.
Last fall I received an invitation to visit a collection of spa resorts, the Italian Hospitality Collection, in Tuscany. Let’s just say our host, Cristina Morellini, had me at ‘ciao!’ with this invitation. I’m a fan of spa hotels in general and when they are based in Tuscany I’m over the moon. Our first stop on the itinerary was the classically beautiful Fonteverde Spa resort located in San Casciano Dei Bagni. A scenic train ride from Rome, a lift from our private driver, and we arrived at this blissful spot with the goal of relaxation and rejuvenation Tuscan style.
The invitation included:
Spa treatments for couples at Thalaquam & Salidarium Spa
Cooking Class with Chef Salvatore Quarto at Casina delle Rose
Private Wine tasting at La Bottiglieria
Dinners at Restaurant Ferdinando I
Upon arrival we were introduced to our small group of travel companions and lovely Cristina, our host. An al fresco lunch was served on the terrace and we felt like we had arrived in Tuscan heaven!
After lunch we settled into our spacious 2-room suite with walk-in closet accented by a wrap around terrace with sublime views of Tuscany. It’s always a nice touch to receive amenities and Cristina and Fonteverde thought of every detail to make us feel right at home.
We were scheduled to enjoy the couples spa experiences in the Thalaquam & Salidarium Spa. I can’t say enough how much we enjoyed the treatments and the healing waters of the thermal pools. Following massages, salt pool floats, warm salt bed treatments and a dip in the rain in the thermal pool, we were on cloud nine. I’ll never forget the moment of floating on the edge of that infinity-edged pool looking over Tuscany.
Pure Bliss!
That evening we enjoyed a master class wine tasting at La Bottiglieria with our handsome sommelier and were educated on some of the finer points of Tuscan reds. Our beautiful host, Cristina, demonstrated how to drink in an efficient, two-handed style (she said it’s the Italy way and I believe her ;). Let’s just say the word “luxurious” was used at one point to describe all variety of things on our trip forward after this “luxurious” wine tasting. We had such a ball with this group of travelers!
The next morning, our pasta making class with Chef Salvatore Quarto at Casina delle Rose was a first for us. We were excited as making pasta in Italy has been on our bucketlist forever. Our class handrolled each strand of pasta and there was a great sense of accomplishment when we were ready to go to ‘boil’. The pici with cheese and pepper was simple, satisying and tasty. Chef Salvatore was so kind as to share the recipe with us. DM me for details!
After breakfast we enjoyed a tour of the property including the church, Santa Maria ad Balneal, that resides on property in the park. Along with the terraces and magnificent views, this location is perfect for a wedding or special event infused with history and Tuscan charm.
“Fonteverde is truly one of the most outstanding destinations in Italy. Originally built as a renaissance palace for the Grand Duke Ferdinando I de’ Medici, the resort overlooks the majestic rolling hills of Val d’Orcia, and is set atop the natural hot springs to fully utilise the healing power of the thermal waters. With its collection of panoramic pools, hot tubs and treatment facilities, Fonteverde is destination where mind, body and soul meet in harmony, and restore the natural balance of life. Discover a resort and spa in Tuscany where Italian hospitality meets absolute wellness.”
To learn more about a spa getaway in Tuscany at Fonteverde, contact me for more information. This is the perfect location for a romantic getaway, girlfriends’ spa trip or special event such as a family reunion or a wedding filled with pure Tuscan charm.
Thank you to Cristina Morellini and the Italian Hospitality Collection for the warm welcome and generous hospitality at Fonteverde.
