Heather Lindstrom 6/21/19 Heather Lindstrom 6/21/19

Camargue: Off the Beaten Path in Provence

There is a slice of Provence, off the beaten path, that offers a surprising twist from the classic lavender fields, towering cypress and medieval sand stone villages capping the mountaintops. Camargue is more about white horses, flamingos, marsh lands, salt beds, and relaxed resorts allowing for sunkissed lounging poolside. We met the white horses upon our arrival in the marshlands of Camargue and Mr. C.T and Sebastien made new friends immediately.

Following our friendly greeting from these stately creatures we headed to Le Mas de la Fougue for a relaxing stay. Our sunny suite had a private terrace that opened directly to the pool deck with lounge chairs perfect for a dip or sipping a citrus infused sangria. Sublime!

The pace of life in Camargue slowed us down almost instantly.

The sunsets are golden in this slice of Provence.

A tour of our ‘Patio Suite’

The fresh fare at La Table de Marius was beyond delicious. We enjoyed the local delicacies and creative infusions prepared by the inspiring chef, Denis Gamard. Service was friendly and impeccable. Each dish was a work of art!

“Head to western Europe’s largest delta, where the Rhône River meets the Mediterranean Sea, and you’ll find a lesser known side of Provence. The Camargue spreads like a fan from the ancient Roman city of Arles, and in its folds lie green rice paddies, rose-colored salt flats, grass-filled marshes, and wide, windswept beaches. Nearly 400 species of birds call it home, as do prized black bulls and indigenous horses tended by gardians, the local cowboys who bolster the region’s wild-west reputation. “The Camargue is a mosaic of color, light, and mood,” says resident Frédéric Lamouroux, director of the Ornithological Park of Pont de Gau. “A tableau of land and water, wildlife and passionate people, it’s like nowhere else in France.””

— KIMBERLEY LOVATO for National Geographic

For more on the Camargue here. To book your next trip to France contact Curated Travel.

Thank you to Sebastien, Creative Destinations and Le Mas de la Fougue for the welcoming and relaxing stay.

Heather Lindstrom 5/15/19 Heather Lindstrom 5/15/19

Curated Hotel: 3 Days at the Chic Le Blanc Spa Resort in Los Cabos

I’ve had my eye on the chic, contemporary Le Blanc Spa Resort brand since it first opened in Cancun years ago. I’m attracted to the spa themed luxury and all-incluisive adults only property for a truly relaxing vibe. When I was offered a chance to the visit the newest Le Blanc resort in Los Cabos I jumped at the chance.

I was greeted at the airport by a private driver and enjoyed the scenic 20 minute drive along the golden corridor to Le Blanc Spa Resort. First steps, a private check-in, proffered welcome drink, a cool, scented mini towel, and a tour of my suite by my kindly personal butler, Omar. He took special care to acquaint me with the conveniences and smart technology of my spacious suite, including an app to communicate wishes and requests directly to my personal butler. Talk about feeling spoiled!

A tour of the luxurious spa suite at Le Blanc

Le Blanc offers a range of amenties including your choice of aromatherapy, scented pillow, hand-crafted soaps of your choice and butler drawn baths at your selected time (complete with your favorite aromatherapy and rose petals). Definitely an after dinner treat to savour!

For dinner I met the small group of luxury travel advisors exploring Le Blanc with me. We enjoyed a refreshing drink, a sunset dinner by the sea and live music in the lounge as well as lively conversation. By the end of our 3 days together we felt like we had known each other forever. #girlstrip

The next morning our small group of luxury travel advisors enjoyed a personalized tour of the resort from Le Blanc brand rep, Maria.

I’m always up for some pool time and we had two full afternoons built in for enjoying the pools and beach. The service at Le Blanc, including poolside staff offering cucumber slices for the eyes and a mini-massage, is fantastic. I also noticed there were many cabanas, lounge areas and 4 pools so it was easy to find as much quiet time or socializing time as you like.

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Luckily for us, a spa day with massage was built in to our schedule. As our host, Kalan, reinforeced that we needed to experience all the amenities of Le Blanc. Honestly, my 50 minute massage was one of the best I’ve ever experienced. The water treatment program from sauna, to cold room, to therapeutic pools (hot/cold/whirlpools) makes you feel completely relaxed and yet renewed. I highly recommend the spa and wellness programs at Le Blanc.

There are a number of culinary options at Le Blanc. We enjoyed several of the food restaurants as well as ensuite dining during our stay. Learn more about dining at Le Blanc.

The view from my suite at Le Blanc

Following my visit to Le Blanc Spa Resort I was given several fantastic packages to share with my travel clients including $1500 resort credit, packages that include $500 off air, unlimited golf packages, and much more. Contact me for more info and to book your dream vacation to Le Blanc! Special offers through December 31st, 2019.

As you can see, Le Blanc is perfect for a couple’s romantic getaway, a girlfriends’ spa trip, an adults only desination wedding or a super romantic honeymoon or celebration trip.

My thanks to Kalan, Maria and Le Blanc for the invitation to experience Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos. I’m a big fan!

Heather Lindstrom 5/4/19 Heather Lindstrom 5/4/19

A Visit to Charming Baumanière in Les Baux-de-Provence

On a cloudless day with brilliant azure skies we arrived at Baumanière in Les Baux de Provence. Trust me, for any lovers of French gardens the grounds were the stuff of dreams! Pure Provencial charm embellished with towering cypress, clipped boxwood hedges - fragrant rosemary, lavender, citrus and roses - enhanced with vintage ironwork and the classic eggshell blue painted trims. Café sets placed under trees and trellises create alfresco living at it’s french best.

On a cloudless day graced with brilliant azure skies, we arrived at Baumanière in Les Baux de Provence. Trust me, for any lovers of French gardens the grounds are the stuff of dreams! Pure Provencial charm embellished with towering cypress, clipped boxwood hedges - fragrant rosemary, lavender, citrus, and roses - enhanced with vintage ironwork and the classic eggshell blue painted trims. Café sets placed under trees and trellises create alfresco living at its French best.

“Our domain is above all a place on the fringe of life where we feel at home, between poetry and reality, everything becomes possible for a moment.”

— Baumanière

The accomodations range from modern and airy with contemporary touches to classically charming suites with extraordinary views of surrounding Provence.

A tour of our suite at Baumanière

We were graciously invited to dine at the 2 Michelin starred L'Oustau de Baumanière with renown chef/owner Jean-André Charial creating one of the most exquisite foodie dining experiences of our lives.

To learn more about the dining experiences available check out Gastronomy at Baumanière.

“Baumanière : beautiful manners, the art of living and welcoming everything and everyone with an acute sense of happiness”

”Baumanière is an institution in Provence whose renown goes well beyond the national borders. For seventy years, Baumanière has represented much more than a destination for a luxury getaway. It is a philosophy, an authentic and sincere way of life, the secret and taste of which were passed down to me by my grandfather, Raymond Thuilier, the founder of the establishment. Elegance, serenity, respect for the environment and people are the values held dear by Baumanière, the work of a visionary who created a paradise in his own image.

It is not an easy thing to stay on the top for one or two decades, but to remain so for over seventy years demonstrates our capacity to innovate while never forgoing our objective of excellence. Baumanière is in no way a museum of bygone days... Today, it is different and yet similar to the Baumanière of the past. Similar because of its excellent culinary tradition and refined, discreet and friendly hospitality. Different due to its capacity to adapt to modernity and respond to the needs of a new generation of guests. Living fully in one’s times while preserving the essential values of top class hospitality is what Baumanière is all about.”

— Jean-André Charial

The view from our terrace

To learn more about this extraordinary destination Baumanière and contact Heather at Curated Travel to book.

I can offer Virtuoso Amenities for your stay

Upgrade at time of arrival, subject to availability
Complimentary buffet breakfast for two daily for the duration of the stay
A complimentary lunch at la Table d’hôtes for 2 people per room, excluding alcohol, taxes, and gratuities once during stay
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi

Our thanks to the team at Baumanière for making our stay so memorable. Thank you to Sebastien of Creative Destinations for the invitation to explore the best of Provence.

Heather Lindstrom 4/23/19 Heather Lindstrom 4/23/19

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.”

— Audrey Hepburn

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.”

— Allard

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

Heather Lindstrom 4/17/19 Heather Lindstrom 4/17/19

Curated Travel: Stylish & Savvy Travel Tips from a Travel Advisor

There’s nothing like arriving at your destination and feeling like a hot mess to lessen your enjoyment of a much anticipated trip. I know this from personal experience when my luggage was delayed for 6 LONG days on a luxury travel event in Italy last year. Just imagine wearing sneakers to a posh dinner at Villa d’Este and using the rosegold makeup bag in your purse as a clutch. Yes, it happened to me. Here are a few savvy tricks I’ve learned along the way to keep things more stylish than hot mess while traveling.

Packing Strategies

The most effective way to insure your items will arrive at your destination is to pack only a carry-on bag. If that is not an option, create a capsule carry-on bag with all the essentials to get you through several days if your checked luggage doesn’t arrive. Wear a monochromatic outfit on the plane, and include an additional blouse/top and pair of neutral (black) pants in your bag. If possible add an additional pair of walking shoes (and socks). Pack mini sizes of all necessary beauty products, makeup, hairbrush, all-in-one styling products, a hair tool, toothbrush/paste and anti-perspirant. As I learned the hard way, it’s difficult to recreate your skincare and makeup on the fly with little or no time to shop. Pack all necessary medications. Include a swimsuit if you are headed to a tropical or spa vacation. Scarves are also a way to change up your look. A couple of statement accessories can update your look even if you are wearing the same basics for a day (or 3) in a row.

My Packing List for the Plane

Crossbody bag
Capsule collection in my carry-on rollerbag
Pashmina
Mario Badescu Rosewater Facial Spray
Sanitizing wipes (for the seating area)
Noise-cancelling headphones
Travel pillow or neck roll
Disposable toothbrush/toothpaste
Chargers for devices
Downloaded entertainment apps recommended by your airline
A new book downloaded to my devices
My Bejeweled app to keep me occupied when there is turbulence
A healthy snack like almonds, a meal bar or (let’s face it) M&Ms
Bottle of water purchased at the airport

Travel Tips for International Travel

*Passports - Extra pages required and be sure your passport is due to expire more than 6 months from your travel end date. Your passport is your most essential item while traveling internationally. Pack it first and keep it safe!

*Call your mobile carrier and check on international plans. AT&T can roll you into a $10 per day international plan while traveling. Other carriers may do the same. If you are considering a pocket wifi, sim card or data roaming this article discusses pros and cons for you.

*Credit cards are easy to use and are accepted in most places of business these days. Alert your credit card company (and bank if need be) that you will be traveling internationally or they may hold up charges.

*Put a hold on mail if you don’t have a housesitter.

*Charge all devices and carry a universal international adapter.

*Download itinerary apps as needed. I use UMAPPED for my client itineraries. Tripit is a great one for personal travel.

*Download a language translation app like TripLingo or better yet learn the language before you travel. See a breakdown of a variety of language learning programs from Consumer’s Advocate.

*An International Driver’s Permit if you plan to rent a car on your trip. Apply here.

*Bring your state driver’s license if you plan to ride a scooter or drive a car during an excursion.

*A note on tipping: Tips are usually included in the meal price (check the receipt) so it is not always necessary to tip at a restaurant unless service is above and beyond. In Europe, they typically won’t bring you the bill unless you request so as not to rush you. Essentially the table is yours for the evening if you like. That said, Tours/Transfers do not include tips in the pricing. Common practice is in the range of 5 Euros for half a day, or 10 Euros for a full day, per person for gratuity.

Clients often ask me about my favorite new must-haves for travel and I’m happy to dish. My most important tech accessory has become my external charger for my iPhone. I like the built-in cables on this one. It’s sleek, compact and will charge your iPhone and another device at the same time. It’s all in one so there are no extra cords to pack.

As for adapters, you will need a universal adapter (or two) if traveling internationally. This Universal Adapter is a great option. Most European countries have the same style so this universal adapter should work as well in Italy, France, Spain, etc.

I’m a new convert to noise cancelling headphones, and they make a huge difference in noise fatigue/exhaustion on the plane and jet-lag recovery upon arrival.

Travel packing cubes are my new obsession! If you tend to wear lots of neutrals while traveling (black), your suitcase can look like a tornado hit and it’s hard to find what you are looking for. Packing cubes will keep you organized AND keep your clean and dirty clothes separated. I’m a fan!

Strategies for Beating Jet Lag

Pack eye shades, a travel pillow (my favorite brand is Savvy Sleepers founded by my friend Dale Janee') or neck roll, and download an app for ambient music to help you sleep on the plane. I also take melatonin, but you can take whatever sleep-aid works best for you as needed. As always stay hydrated.

Upon arrival, I adjust to my new time zone immediately. I used to leave my watch set on my ‘home’ time zone but that made me even more tired. My advice is to freshen up at your hotel and head out for a little exploring and a great meal on the first day. Try to stay up for a typical bed time in your new time zone if possible. This will get you acclimated more quickly. More melatonin and doses of vitamin D sunshine are also helpful to reduce jet lag.

What to Purchase While Traveling

While traveling, I often bring home the sensory experience of my destination. Flavors, fragrances, candles and fine linens are the perfect consumables to bring to your home or as gifts.

On my recent trip to Paris and the French Riviera I purchased Caudalie serum and day creme from the fabulous French pharmacy (like a candy shop for us French skincare and makeup fans).

In the charming mountaintop city of Eze, I visited the parfum shop and purchased a locally made fragrance by Fragonard, ‘Soleil’. It’s a sunny fragrance that transports me to the French Rivieria with each delightful spritz. Tours of the Laboratory are offered at the Eze location. During our trip we also collected truffle mustard, regional flavored salts and Herbs de Provence. I’m a fan of local linens. They are essential for the home but have that local vibe to remiind you of your travels.

Purchasing items that transport you to the sensory experience of your destination is a wonderful way to relive those special moments of travel.

My best advice, since travel is always an adventure despite our best preparations, even if you end up feeling like a ‘hot mess’, is to lead with a smile. If your smile is bright enough maybe no one will notice that you are wearing sneakers at a fancy event at Villa d’Este at Lake Como.

Learn more about what I learned when my luggage was delayed for 6 days in Italy here.

Packing Tips on Curated Travel for Pinterest

Today I’m pleased to be joining this fabulous group of experienced bloggers. Stop by their links and learn about their tips for stylish travel:

"How to Pack Your Suitcase Like A Pro" by After Orange County

"How to Take the Stress Out of Packing When Every Outfit Counts" by Brenda Kinsel

"Steps To Plan An Unforgettable Large Group Vacation" by Classic Casual Home

"Stylish & Savvy Travel Tips from a Travel Advisor" by Curated Travel

"How to Pack for a Weekend Getaway" by Most Lovely Things

"How to Rock an Over 50 Travel Wardrobe" by Rough Luxe

"Footloose: Shoes For Spring and Summer Travel" by Une Femme D'un Certain Age

Feeling inspired like I am? Contact me to get started planning your dream getaway here.

Heather Lindstrom 4/6/19 Heather Lindstrom 4/6/19

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.

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

A Sumptuous Stay at Bagni di Pisa

Tuscan Luxe at Castel Monastero in Chianti