Preparing for a Luxury Mediterranean Cruise: Your Guide to Smooth Sailing
Embarking on a Mediterranean luxury cruise is like stepping into a dream—where ancient cities, sun-drenched coastlines, and indulgent amenities await. But to make the most of this opulent journey, a little preparation goes a long way.
Preparing for a Luxury Mediterranean Cruise:
Your Guide to Smooth Sailing
Embarking on a Mediterranean luxury cruise is like stepping into a dream—where ancient cities, sun-drenched coastlines, and indulgent amenities await. But to make the most of this opulent journey, a little preparation goes a long way.
Here’s how to get ready for your voyage in style:
Pack Smart, Dress Cool
• Smart packing begins with your selection of luggage. I love a set like this one from Delsey Paris or this one.
• Daywear Essentials: Lightweight layers, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection are key for onshore adventures.
Accessories are everything: Think Understated Luxury
• Sun-Savvy Style: A wide-brimmed straw hat, oversized sunglasses (my current favorite Longchamp), and a silk scarf double as sun protection and fashion statements. For the flight, I like this one.
• Day-to-Night Bags: A woven tote for excursions and a chic clutch for elegant dinners.
• Jewelry Edit: Choose versatile pieces—gold hoops, layered necklaces, or here, and a statement cuff. Keep it curated, not cluttered.
Daytime: Casual Elegance
During the day, comfort is key—but with a polished twist.
• Light sundresses and midi dresses or linen jumpsuits: Breezy and breathable for warm Mediterranean days.
• Flowy linen pants or tailored shorts with flowy blouses: Great for excursions or lounging on deck.
• Swim & Spa Gear: Don’t forget swimwear (with a caftan - love this one!) for the pool or spa, and workout clothes if you plan to use the fitness center.
Footwear with Flair: Leather sandals for strolling ancient streets, espadrilles for seaside lunches, and sleek kitten heels for onboard soirées.
Evening: Refined but Relaxed
Most luxury small ships (including Explora) skip the black-tie formality in favor of “casual chic.”
• Cocktail dresses or elegant maxi dresses: Think Cannes waterfront, not gala night.
• Dressy separates: Silk pants with a statement top or a tailored midi skirt.
Beauty & Wellness
• Skincare Rituals: Hydrating mist, SPF serum, and a rich night cream to combat sun and sea air.
• Signature Scent: A travel-sized perfume that evokes coastal sophistication—think neroli, fig, or sea salt. I love this one! I use an atomizer to carry my favorite fragrance with me.
• Spa-Ready Essentials: Luxe loungewear and here, a silk eye mask, and your favorite facial roller for onboard pampering.
🗺️ Plan Your Shore Excursions
• Curated Experiences: Many luxury lines offer exclusive tours—think private vineyard tastings in Provence or guided walks through ancient ruins in Athens.
• Book Early: Popular excursions fill up fast. Reserve your spots before departure to avoid disappointment.
• Go Local: Consider venturing out on your own in smaller ports to discover hidden gems and authentic cuisine. Grab a taxi and go! Be sure to check your boarding time for later that day.
🛳️ Know Your Ship
• Explore Amenities: From Michelin-starred dining to onboard art galleries and wellness retreats, familiarize yourself with what’s available.
• Dining Reservations: Specialty restaurants often require advanced booking—secure your preferred times early. Use an app if your cruise offers one to streamline the reservation process.
• Spa & Wellness: Treat yourself to massages, facials, or even yoga with an ocean view. Book spa reservations ahead. On Explora, book your spa reservations ahead and use your Onboard Credit to pay for your treatment.
📱 Tech & Travel Tips
• Connectivity: Check your cruise line’s Wi-Fi packages and roaming options for port days.
• Currency & Language: Brush up on basic phrases and know which currencies are used in each country.
• Travel Documents: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months and check visa requirements for each destination.
• Elegant Organization: Handy travel wallet for documents, monogrammed luggage tags, and a chic passport holder.
• Power with Panache: Sleek portable charger, noise-canceling earbuds, and a compact camera for capturing golden hour.
• Adapters & Converters: Choose a minimalist design that blends seamlessly into your travel kit.
• Mini plug-in night light for hotel/cruise suites
🧳 Packing Strategy: Style Meets Function
• Packing Cubes in neutrals: Keep your suitcase as curated as your wardrobe.
• Roll & Layer: Roll delicate fabrics and layer tissue paper to preserve structure.
If you plan to check a bag for the flights, use an Apple Air Tag and create a ‘capsule collection’ of essentials in your carry-on in case of delayed luggage. I learned this lesson the hard way on my first luxury travel trip to Italy here.
Embrace the Mediterranean Lifestyle
Our Captain for our Fall 2025 Explora II Cruise
Slow down, savor every bite of fresh seafood and sip of local wine, and let the rhythm of the sea guide your days. A Mediterranean luxury cruise isn’t just a vacation—it’s a celebration of culture, comfort, and connection.
My Hot Tips for Preparing for International Travel here plus a more detailed packing list for the Mediterranean here.
If you are joining us in Barcelona for our 4th Curated Travel group cruise on the stunning Explora II we can hardly wait to welcome you for our Bon Voyage!!
Barcelona - Ibiza - Marseille - Villefranche Sur Mer - Genoa - Portofino - Porto Santo Stefano - Rome
Here are a few highlights of our itinerary from our previous travels: Portofino & the Italian Riviera, Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, and Eze.
Heather & Scott
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!
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. Just a few suites left!
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.
”
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
One of my favorite stops - Portofino on the Italian Riviera!
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!
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
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!
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
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?
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
Castelfalfi in Tuscany October 2024
Celebrate! Announcing our Forbes Travel Guide Endorsement!
We are thrilled to announce that Curated Travel, as an affiliate of Cadence, has been named a Forbes Travel Guide-endorsed agency. FTG is the only independent global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas, and ocean cruises. The coveted Five-Star, Four-Star, and Recommended awards are earned through incognito inspections on FTG’s hundreds of exacting quality and service standards. We are honored to be recognized by the global authority on luxury hospitality for our commitment to providing our clients with exceptional experiences.
We are thrilled to announce that Curated Travel, as an affiliate of Cadence, has been named a Forbes Travel Guide-endorsed agency. FTG is the only independent global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas, and ocean cruises. The coveted Five-Star, Four-Star, and Recommended awards are earned through incognito inspections on FTG’s hundreds of exacting quality and service standards. We are honored to be recognized by the global authority on luxury hospitality for our commitment to providing our clients with exceptional experiences.
Learn more about the esteemed Forbes Travel Guide:
As the founder of Curated Travel, I cannot emphasize enough how grateful we are for our clients. Our clients are the lifeblood of our company and inspire us to continue providing exceptional services. From our first interaction to the moment you return home from your travels, we strive to create unforgettable experiences that exceed your expectations. Our business thrives on word of mouth and referrals, and we know that satisfied clients are the foundation of our success. So to all of our clients, past and present, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude.
Thank you for choosing us as your dedicated travel partner. We look forward to continuing to serve you for all of your future travel needs.
Heather Lindstrom, Curated Travel
Exciting News! We Will be Hosting A Virtuoso Voyage with Seabourn Ultra Luxury Cruises - Monte Carlo to Barcelona - October 2023 - Join Us!
How does frolicking on the French Riviera sound about now?
In October, Scott and I plan to set sail on the luxurious Seabourn Sojourn from Monte Carlo to Barcelona on a 10-day cruise with stops in Elba, Amalfi, and Taormina (Italy), Valletta (Malta), St. Tropez and La Ciotat (France), as well as Palamos (Spain) before disembarking in Barcelona on this spectacular itinerary.
“Picture calm cerulean waters, stunning beaches, traditional fishing villages, and family-run wineries — not to mention megalithic temples, ancient Pompeii’s ruins, and the world’s oldest underground necropolis.”
How does frolicking on the French Riviera sound about now?
In October, Scott and I will set sail on the luxurious Seabourn Sojourn from Monte Carlo (Monaco) to Barcelona on a 10-day cruise with stops in Elba, Amalfi, and Taormina (Italy), Valletta (Malta), St. Tropez and La Ciotat (France), as well as Palamos (Spain) before disembarking in Barcelona on this spectacular itinerary. We have been invited to host the Virtuoso Voyages clients aboard who will receive specialized VIP amenities.
View destinations in the gallery below:
What we love: Seabourn provides all-inclusive, luxury cruising, refined to its purest form. Hand-selected itineraries transport you to unique ports beyond the reach of larger ships.
• Intimate ships with a private club atmosphere
• One of the highest space-per-guest ratios in the industry
• The youngest and most modern fleet in the industry
A culinary partnership with famed chef Thomas Keller.
Virtuoso Hosted Voyages Perks:
As Curated Travel clients, you will receive these added benefits of the Virtuoso Voyages program when you book with us:
Dedicated onboard hosts (That’s US! - Heather & Scott Lindstrom from Curated Travel)
Private welcome cocktail party/reception
Exclusive shore excursions, from VIP tours to outings with a private car and driver (see below for a special experience on October 13)
Shipboard credits and specialty dining options
On this cruise, you also receive an Enhanced cruise experience for Virtuoso Voyages clients - October 13, 2023 - in Palomos, Spain:
“VIP Virtuoso Voyages Discover Palamos, one of Spain's most prominent ports. The day begins with a drive from Palamos to beautiful and ancient Gerona, a city in the northeast of Spain on the Costa Brava that boasts Roman-era walls and contains the most valuable heritage sites in the Catalonian region. The tour takes guests into the medieval city located on the banks of the river Onyar, where guests will see the famed “Tapestry of Creation” in Gerona’s 12th-13th century Cathedral and visit the nearby Bonastruc Jewish Center which chronicles the history of the Jews that lived in this city during the Middle Ages. Guests will also learn how the “Aljama”, or self-governing communities of Moors and Jews living under Spanish Christian rule functioned, and their traditions. After the visit, it will be time for a wonderful luncheon of delicious Catalonian specialties complimented by local wines at Restaurant Cal Ros. Guests will have some time at leisure to stroll the narrow, picturesque streets of the medieval village of Palsand and browse its many colorful shops.”
Learn more about the 10-Day Tyrrhenian Treasures & Malta Cruise
and contact us to book.
Current Promotion: Receive up to $ 2,000 USD Air Credit per Person, a Two-Category Suite Upgrade with a Reduced 10% Deposit.
OR-
Is Alaska more your style??
In addition to the October cruise, we will also be hosting a Virtuoso Voyage for Seabourn to Alaska in July 2023! 7-Day Alaska Fjords & Canadian Inside Passage July 7-14. 2023. Departs Juneau, Alaska, and arrives in Vancouver, BC. Contact us to learn more and to book.
We would love to have you join us on either or both cruises!
Contact us to learn more.
Bon Voyage!
Heather & Scott
All images are shared with direct permission from Seabourn.
Hot Tips for Preparing for International Travel (Revisited for 2025)
The travel industry is definitely booming and many travelers, tired of local haunts, are heading to far-flung destinations post-pandemic. At Curated Travel, our clients are headed to St. Lucia, Bora Bora, Cancun, South Africa, Germany, European River Cruises, the British Isles, Slovenia, France, and the always-popular Italy in the next several months. With 3 trips to Europe last year and Italy on my horizon later this month, I will attest that travel is back and more exciting than ever!
The travel industry is booming, and many travelers, tired of local haunts, are heading to far-flung destinations. At Curated Travel, our clients are headed to the Lake District of Italy, Bora Bora, European River Cruises, the British Isles, Slovenia, Portugal, Spain, France, and the ever-popular Italy in the next several months. With 3 trips to Europe last year and Italy on my horizon later this month, I will attest that travel is back and more exciting than ever!
Hot Tips for International Travel
Pack your passport first (be sure it’s valid for 6 months or more post-return). Your passport is your most essential item for international travel. Take a picture of the info page and upload it to your phone in case your passport is lost during travel.
Check the website of your airline for luggage sizes and weight limits. If you can manage to pack your essentials in a carry-on only (and congrats!!) do it! If not, I strongly recommend packing a ‘capsule collection’ of basics and necessities in your carry-on in case of delayed luggage.
While you are checking the airline website be sure you have created your account and have the latest apps (including airline entertainment apps) downloaded before travel. Check-in 24 hours before travel and turn on notifications for any changes.
Contact your bank and credit card companies to alert them of your upcoming international travel and charges.
Call your cell phone company for the best international phone plan options during travel. Travel Hack: If you keep your phone in airplane mode for your entire trip, you can use your phone functions on free wifi at hotels, cafes, and airports with ease.
Purchase a universal adapter or two to use in the hotels for plugging in phone chargers and computers, or request one at your hotel. Check the voltage ratings in the small print on your electrical items. Most are rated for 100-240V; however, some are rated only for 125V (my blow dryer), which requires a converter from 220V to 110V US to European Converter.
Download WhatsApp on your phone for free international texting and video calling with family and friends (be sure they have the app too!). For our travel clients, WhatsApp is frequently used by our international travel partners to keep in close contact with tours/guides/transfers while you travel.
Bring your state driver’s license if you plan to rent a scooter during an excursion. If you plan to rent a car, an International Driving Permit is strongly recommended. It’s easy to obtain ahead of your travels from the American Automobile Association here.
For dining abroad, apps like TheFork are available internationally for easy booking. Use the Michelin Guide (one of our preferred partners) for more dining and travel inspiration.
Download a language translation app like TripLingo, or, better yet, learn the language before you travel.
UPDATE: Here I am, packing for my spring trip to Italy for 2 weeks at a luxury travel event. I couldn’t quite believe I was able to manage it all (fancy events included) in carry-on luggage only. Trust me, it was so freeing not to worry about my luggage arriving with me. It was also freeing not to be schlepping extra baggage around for 2 weeks.
Notes on Packing: After too many experiences with delayed luggage, I’m a recent convert to carry-on-only luggage (I use a small roller bag plus a Beis Mini Weekender and a small crossbody bag). If you do check bags I highly recommend creating a ‘curated capsule’ in your carryon of at least 2 multi-use outfits, 2 pairs of shoes, makeup/haircare basics, deodorant, toothbrush/paste, medications, and scarves/jewelry to change up your look. If you do check a bag toss in an Apple Air Tag to track your luggage. I’ve written several articles about the fine art of packing for longer trips. Read more about my travel advisor packing strategies, including the essential Carryon Capsule Collection here. If you are curious about how I survived for 6 days at my first luxury travel event in Italy with NO Luggage read here.
Spending power: Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere these days- including from your phone with digital wallets. That said, it’s always good to have some cash on hand, especially for tipping or smaller purchases. Also, you will want to tip tour guides and drivers along the way in cash.
You can exchange for cash at the airport OR you can request your transfer/taxi driver make a quick stop at a local ATM on the way to your hotel for lower exchange rates.
Please note, Apple and other payment apps are widely used in Europe these days so going as wallet-free as possible is a good security tip. My husband learned this the hard way when pickpocketed on his first day in Lisbon. For your cash, use a money belt or clip and never put your wallet in your back pocket. For women, I’m all about the cross-body bag.
HOT Tip: My husband has started bringing home some leftover currency like euros or pesos to ease our arrival on our next trip to the destination.
Notes on tipping: Tips are usually included in the meal price (check the receipt) so it is not necessary to tip at a restaurant unless service is above and beyond. In Europe, your server typically won’t bring your bill until you request it. Essentially, the table is yours for the evening if you like. That said, tours/transfers/guides do not include tips in the pricing. In Italy/France the common practice for transfers with a short drive is €10-20, for a long drive is €40-50, and for private guides, a full day is €50 and a half day is €30.
HOT TIP - When you leave your hotel, grab a business card with the hotel address and phone number included or snap a photo of it. If you get lost (and don’t happen to meet an English speaker), showing a taxi driver or a passerby the card with the address is extremely helpful, even with a language barrier. If you have an itinerary app (such as UMAPPED which I create for my clients) show them the hotel address on the app to keep it simple.
My Must-Haves 2025 -
Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds (Noise-canceling)
Makeup Case (and I love this hanging bag too - Toiletry Bag)
I hope this list of tips for international travel is helpful as you prepare for your upcoming travels.
Ciao! Ciao!
Heather
Contact us to help make your travel dreams come true!
Lake Garda: Mercurial, Magical and Idyllic
Arriving at Villa Cortine Palace Hotel is an event in and of itself. Our driver whisked us through majestic gates, past antique statuary and formal gardens to this stately, historic property. It sits on 12 acres on the peninsula just north of Sirmione and is bordered on both sides by Lake Garda. This location yields the most amazing lake views from all angles.
Here I am! Popping back in with a blog post on my trip to Italy back in April. It’s hard to believe I’ve already returned to Europe for two weeks since I last posted. Needless to say, I’m catching up and am excited to have some new favorite destinations to share!
Here’s the scoop: Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy, was one of my absolute favorite stays of this trip. I was invited to visit by the wonderful team at Villa Cortine Palace Hotel as a pre-stay before the Travelux luxury travel event in Venice. Trust me, it was an unforgettable experience.
Arriving at Villa Cortine Palace Hotel is an event in and of itself. Our driver whisked us through ornate gates, past antique statuary and formal gardens to this stately, luxurious and historic property. It sits on 12 acres on the peninsula just north of charming Sirmione and is bordered on both sides by Lake Garda rimmed with majestic mountains.
As you can imagine, this location yields the most amazing lake views from all angles.
As we pulled up to the hotel, I was greeted by the staff and our host, General Manager Giacomo Grossi, with a welcome drink and escorted to my spacious, luxurious suite where gifts and goodies awaited.
This is a tour of my lake view suite. The view is stunning as is the Murano glass chandelier!
The next day, graced with sunshine, a scenic boat ride on Lake Garda and a festive wine tasting at Contithun were on the itinerary.
Our select group of international travel advisors was invited to experience the charms of Villa Cortine Palace. We enjoyed luxury accommodations, private tours of the historic hotel, grounds and gardens, gourmet dining with impeccable service at Il Molo, cocktails at Maria Callas bar & bistro, and enjoyed a wonderful time together thanks to our gracious host, Giacomo Grossi.
As you can imagine, we were all thrilled to be traveling in Europe again, and to be here was magical.
A tour of the historic Villa Cortine Palace Hotel
This video is a peek of the historical section of the hotel by our host, Giacomo Grossi.
Not only is the rich history of the property celebrated, but there are also modern touches like the luxurious linens, designer bath products, and the oh-so-chic beach club and dock.
My thanks to Giacomo Grossi for the fabulous stay and the introduction to magical Lake Garda.
I can hardly wait to introduce this property to my Italy-loving clients.
To learn more about travel to Italy contact us.
Up next: Venice
Grazie Mille!
Heather
