Practicing Delayed 'Grativacation' for My Postponed Trip to Italy
I had planned to arrive in Italy today for a luxury travel event in Venice. My itinerary included a brief stay in Milan, a hosted tour of Turin, followed by a full weekend of luxury events in Venice. I have been looking forward to Travelux 2020 since I attended for the first time in March of 2018. That event, hosted at Lake Como, was filled with luxury travel experiences in and around Lake Como, San Remo, and Abano Terme. The trip caused me to fall even more in love with Italy, Italians and living la dolce vita. The event was also a life-changer for my new travel business.
I had planned to arrive in Italy today for a luxury travel event in Venice. My itinerary included a brief stay in Milan, a hosted tour of Turin, followed by a full weekend of luxury events in Venice. I have been looking forward to Travelux 2020 since I attended for the first time in March of 2018. That event, hosted at Lake Como, was filled with luxury travel experiences in and around Lake Como, San Remo, and Abano Terme. The trip caused me to fall even more in love with Italy, Italians and living la dolce vita. The event was also a life-changer for my new travel business.
I’ve been looking forward to reconnecting with my Italian travel partners and friends, so I’m disappointed about the necessary change of plans. Like so many of us, I’m practicing delayed ‘grativacation’ while looking forward to getting back to Italy when the event is rescheduled.
In the meantime, I’ve been looking back over blog posts from that trip in 2018 and will never forget, despite the most meticulous packing of my life, how I arrived in Italy for my first luxury travel event and my luggage didn’t arrive for another 6 days! I learned a lot about packing strategies but, more importantly, how to ‘make it work’ when your resources are low. I also wrote about my best tip for when you are forced to wear sneakers at a fancy event at Villa d’Este and dealing with other uncomfortable moments. ;)
Are you practicing delayed ‘grativacation’ too? What trip did you have to cancel? What travels are next are your wanderlist? Since you may have time on your hands, like most of us do these days, you can read more about my solo adventures in Italy in 2018 in the collection below (see first post at lower right of collection).
Check out: Keeping Your Wanderlust Spirit Alive
“Delayed Grativacation - The fine art of looking forward to a postponed trip and keeping the wanderlust alive. ”
The Curated Travel Collection: Italy
A collection of blog posts written/photographed by Heather Lindstrom, owner/travel advisor at Curated Travel, on nearly twenty years of travels to Italy.
Enjoy a glimpse of ‘la dolce vita’!
A collection of blog posts written and photographed by Heather Lindstrom, owner/travel advisor at Curated Travel, on nearly twenty years of travels to Italy.
Enjoy a glimpse of ‘la dolce vita’!
“You may have the universe if I may have Italy
”
Contact us to make your travel dreams to Italy come true. Seamless travel itineraries for the modern traveler at Curated Travel.
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 Colorful Return Visit to Venice in Autumn
Sixteen years ago my husband and I landed in Venice for the first time. It was our much-anticipated first trip to Europe together as relative newlyweds. The year was 2003 and I’ll never forget flying over the intricately woven islands, mercurial hues of the water, while squeezing our hands together in breathless anticipation. It was our first travel dream together come true!
Our stay in Venice was pure magic. I remember the carefree feeling of getting lost wandering along the canals, a leisurely candlelit dinner in a piazza we could never find again, a romantic sunset gondola ride and a moonlight dance in St. Marks’ Square.
Sixteen years ago my husband and I landed in Venice for the first time. It was our much-anticipated first trip to Europe together as relative newlyweds. The year was 2003 and I’ll never forget flying over the intricately woven islands, mercurial hues of water, while squeezing our hands together in breathless anticipation. It was our first travel dream together come true!
Our stay in Venice was pure magic. I remember the carefree feeling of getting lost wandering along the canals, a leisurely candlelit dinner in a piazza we could never find again, a romantic sunset gondola ride and a moonlight dance in St. Marks’ Square.
Scott and I returned to Venice last September for a few days before our Azamara Mediterranean cruise. This trip we had dear friends who joined us, gathering pre-cruise for a short stay, and we made the most of our time in Venezia. Mr. C.T. and I replicated our sunset dance at St. Mark’s Square listening to the small orchestra while watching the sunset and enjoying an aperitif. This trip we added a boat trip to the colorful islands of Burano, home of the rainbow-colored buildings, and Murano known for the famed glass-blowing and lace factories.
We dined alongside the canal and discovered another authentic piazza for an alfresco lunch. This time we marked it our new discoveries on a map on our iPhone so that we could find them again.
A glimpse of Venice in Autumn:
Venice has a unique rhythm all its own and it’s unlike any place we’ve ever visited. Picture the ornate Venetian architecture, art, history, foodie delicacies, masterful blown-glass with the backdrop of the iconic gondolas on the water. There are no cars allowed in Venice so you travel everywhere by boat or on foot. This adds a unique and romantic twist. Yes, Venice can be overcrowded and very touristy but seek out the less traveled canals, passageways, and piazzas, and magic abounds in and around Venice.
The islands of Murano and Burano were a colorful sidetrip one afternoon. The first stop was the glass blowing demonstration on Murano. Next up was lunch, lace and the colorful shades of Burano. Definitely not to be missed for the photographer.
“Underneath day’s azure eyes, Ocean’s nursling, Venice, lies,— A peopled labyrinth of walls, Amphitrite’s destined halls, Which her hoary sire now paves With his blue and beaming waves. Lo! the sun upsprings behind, Broad, red, radiant, half reclined On the level quivering line Of the waters crystalline; And before that chasm of light, As within a furnace bright, Column, tower, and dome, and spire Shine like obelisks of fire, Pointing with inconstant motion From the altar of dark ocean To the sapphire-tinted skies; As the flames of sacrifice From the marble shrines did rise, As to pierce the dome of gold Where Apollo spoke of old. Sun-girt city! thou hast been Ocean’s child, and then his queen. ”
Water Taxi in Venice
Venice is pure magic on the water at night!
We discovered this sweet piazza off the beaten path. It was perfect for perusing the market and enjoy a bistro lunch, with a fresh Caprese salad and a colorful Aperol spritz.
I dug out these images from our first visit to Venice in 2003.
Where has the time gone?
One of the headlines in the news today is the catastrophic flooding in Venice. It’s the second-worst flooding event in the last 50 years. I saw a video of a man swimming in St. Mark’s Square! It’s heartbreaking to see this iconic treasure of a city underwater. If you have not had a chance to visit Venice I would advise putting it as high as possible on your wander list. There is a fragile beauty to this city and it won’t be here forever.
Contact us to book your dream getaway to Italy or anywhere you choose.
Articles on Italy from the Curated Travel Blog
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 Travel: Isle of Capri Style
Our love affair with Italy continues with a street style focus on the sunny Isle of Capri where the people watching is magnifico! While traveling abroad I’m often drawn to capturing the local street style. As you can see by my images, I’m not the only one that finds this fashionable parade eye catching. On Capri it’s all about summery white dresses, chic black frocks, pale straw bags or vibrant leather backpacks, brilliant headscarves, straw hats, jewel encrusted handmade sandals and, as always, the stylish sunnies.
Capri Family Style
Our love affair with Italy continues with a street style focus on the sunny Isle of Capri where the people watching is magnifico! While traveling abroad I’m often drawn to capturing the local street style. As you can see by my images, I’m not the only one that finds this fashionable parade eye catching. On Capri it’s all about summery white dresses, chic black frocks, pale straw bags or vibrant leather backpacks, brilliant headscarves, straw hats, jewel encrusted handmade sandals and, as always, the stylish sunnies.
“Italian style is a natural attitude. It is about a life of good taste. It doesn’t have to be expensive. Simple but with good taste. Luxury is possible to buy. Good taste is not. ”
The White Dress is EVERYTHING
Inspiration from my Pinterest Board on Italian Style
Capri Style Inspiration
PIN ME!
More of Italy from the Curated Travel Blog
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
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.