An Italian Spa Getaway in Abano (Part Four)
After being reunited with my luggage, just as we left the hotel in Lake Como, our driver headed to the Abano Grand Hotel in Abano. It was a cold and rainy day but our welcome at the Abano Grand Hotel could not have been more warm and welcoming. As I was introduced to my spacious 'Panorama View' suite I was captivated by the view.
Following our final event at Lake Como for Travelux 2018, our driver swung back to the hotel where I was finally reunited with my luggage, on day 6 of my trip to Italy. The pickup was successful and our driver headed east towards Venice to the Grand Hotel in Abano. It was a cold and rainy day but our welcome at the Abano Grand couldn't have been warmer or more welcoming at this luxury spa resort.
As I was introduced to my spacious 'Panorama View' suite I was captivated by the view and the welcoming fruit basket and bottle of chilled prosecco. It felt wonderful to have my suitcase and belongings. I was finally able to unpack, for the first time on this trip, day 7! I informed my traveling companions, now friends, who knew all about my lost luggage, that I would likely change outfits three times a day just because I finally had options again.
Our itinerary at the Abano Grand included several complimentary spa treatments, a tour of the premises/additional local properties as well as semi-formal cocktails and dinners each evening. There was also free time to enjoy the thermal pools, both inside and out. On this stormy day, I took a swim in the expansive outdoor pool. Lost in the steamy waters and relaxing my cares away, snowflakes started to fall. It was truly a sensory experience (catching snowflakes on my tongue) that I'll never forget.
“For your Italian vacation under the banner of wellness and relaxation, choose the exclusive GB Thermae Hotels in the heart of Abano Terme, the largest thermal waters area of Europe located in the vicinity of Venice. All GB luxury hotels offer large thermal indoor pools connected to the outdoor, large parks for relaxing walks and exclusive SPAS with sources of healing waters, where to take good care of yourself thanks to the numerous beneficial properties of mud therapy.
”
The spa treatment regimen began with a 60-minute evaluation performed by a spa physician to assess wellness. Based on my specific profile, I was prescribed a unique set of treatments. My program included a mud bath (You can't be modest for this one ;), a 90-minute hydrating facial, and a 60-minute lymphatic drainage massage. Each treatment left me feeling relaxed and renewed. Adding in water treatments from the thermal pools, steam room, sauna, circulation pools circuits to the spa time enhances the health benefits of the treatments. The physician told me that Italians will typically stay at the health spa for a week at a time for daily treatments to achieve the maximum wellness benefits.
Though I finally had my luggage and 9 days worth of unworn clothing, I discovered it is essential to wear the white fluffy robes, and slippers, from one stop to another at the spa resort. I can definitely get behind this kind of relaxing environment and attire while on a luxury travel tour.
Our tour of the hotels one afternoon revealed the diverse style of the GB Hotels brand. While some properties cater to the classic, Italian decor and spa style, other hotels had contemporary decor and a fresh, stylish vibe at the spa. With 5 spa hotels in the GB Hotels brand, it is easy to find the perfect fit for those seeking a preferred spa resort experience.
While days were spent in fluffy robes, reveling in the spa, our evenings were filled with semi-formal cocktail parties with our hosts and fellow travel professionals. Meals were elegant, tasty menus created by the chef from regional cuisine with impeccable service from the staff. The hotel even provided entertainment which made a spontaneous dance party, Italian style, a must.
Our one trip away from the spa hotel was a lovely afternoon visit to the jewel of a city, Padua. I'll share more on my discoveries in Padua in an upcoming post.
Following a few days in San Remo on the Italian Riviera, 3 days at Lake Como for Travelux 2018, the luxury travel event, enjoying 3 days at an Italian Spa resort was perfect planning. I highly recommend a stay at any of the GB Thermae Hotels in Abano. This spa retreat could be a short getaway after touring Italy or even a destination following a stay in Venice. It would also make a wonderful girlfriends' group getaway.
My thanks to the team at GB Thermae Hotels, especially Chiara Borile, Daria, Paolo, Simone and Carlo for your gracious hospitality, luxury suite, spa treatments and lovely spa products. Thank you to Nebe Club and Travelux 2018 for creating this memorable luxury travel opportunity.
To book a visit to a GB Spa Hotels or to create a group spa trip, contact me at Curated Travel.
Villa Views from the Waterside at Villa Balbiano on Lake Como (Part Three)
While preparing for my trip to Travelux 2018, I was given several options for excursions during my time at Lake Como. Despite flirting with the option of driving a red Ferrari, or a cooking class with a famed chef at Villa d'este, I chose the boat ride around the shores of Lake Como. My decision was easy when I thought about capturing images of the stunning views of villages, villas and the natural beauty around Lago di Como. This classically beautiful Villa Balbiano, above, is where our final event for Travelux 2018 was held.
Villa Balbiano
While preparing for my trip to Travelux 2018, I was given several options for excursions during my time at Lake Como. Despite flirting with the option of driving a red Ferrari, or a cooking class with a famed chef at Villa d'Este, I chose the boat ride around the shores of Lake Como. My decision was easy when I thought about capturing images of the stunning views of villages, villas and the natural beauty around Lago di Como. This classically beautiful Villa Balbiano, above, is where our final event for Travelux 2018 was held. It was magnificent and will be featured in an upcoming blog post.
The weather worked it's chamelon magic and we experienced a few showers, snow on the mountainside and bursts of pale sunshine which my iPhone 8s captured beautifully. Ahhh, spring in Lake Como! As you will see through these images, the very best way to get a view of Lake Como is from the water.
George Clooney's Villa Olendra appears to be the essence of living 'la dolce vita'. Our guide told us that when the curtains are up on the circular gazebo and the white boat is anchored out front, the Clooneys are usually in residence.
Villa Balbianello is one of my favorite villas on Lake Como. During warmer months the grounds, lush with green, the vibrant flowers, especially lavender wisteria, create a showy accent to the classical structures of the villa.
The Ferrari experience, on our final day of Travelux 2018, looked like a blast! Despite the rush of a powerful engine, I'm glad I chose the boat tour for this trip. Being out on the water is always my favorite way to see a place, plus, the images I captured help me relive this immersive experience at Lake Como.
Next time, I'll drive the Ferrari!
“When you write the story of two happy lovers, let the story be set on the banks of Lake Como. ”
Contact me for more information on the hotels, villas, Red Ferrari experience and boat/walking tours at Lake Como.
Learn more about Villa del Balbianello.
Ciao! Heather
Thank you to the team at Travelux 2018 for making this trip extraordinary.
A Postcard from Italy! xx, Curated Travel
Ciao!! I have just arrived home from my 10-day luxury travel event in Northern Italy. My jet-lagged brain is a kaleidoscope of brilliant colors, scintillating views, the sparkle of chandeliers, prosecco toasts, and the delectable flavors of Northern Italian cuisine. Here is a peek of just a few of the experiences I enjoyed during this memorable experience Italian style.
Ciao!! I have just arrived home from my 10-day luxury travel event in Northern Italy. My jet-lagged brain is a kaleidoscope of brilliant colors, scintillating views, the sparkle of chandeliers, prosecco toasts, and the delectable flavors of Northern Italian cuisine. Here is a peek of just a few of the experiences I enjoyed during this memorable experience Italian style.
My Invitation to a Luxury Travel Event in Italy + New Posts on Curated Travel
I’m jetting off for a fully hosted, luxury travel event in Italy and I couldn’t be more excited. From the Italian Riviera to Lake Como to spa hotels near Venice, this is truly a dream come true for me and my Curated Travel business.
I'm jetting off for a fully hosted, luxury travel event in Italy and I couldn't be more excited. From the Italian Riviera to Lake Como to spa hotels near Venice, this is truly a dream come true for me and my Curated Travel business.
Read the post on my new Curated Travel blog and follow along on Curated Travel Instagram.
BLOG Post my new Curated Travel Blog
Images: Classic Vacations
Curated Travel: Tips on Prepping for an International Getaway
I've spent the weekend packing for our first getaway to Central America--Costa Rica--to be exact. I'm expecting a lush, tropical jungle, bold adventures, and a bit of luxury pictured above--and I'm excited. After 11 days home with the flu, I am feeling good as new and ready for a getaway to Secrets Papagayo with my favorite guy. Over the years, I've found that packing requires different strategies for different types of vacations. International travel has a few additional requirements.
I've spent the weekend packing for our first getaway to Central America--Costa Rica--to be exact. I'm expecting a lush, tropical jungle, bold adventures, and a bit of luxury pictured above--and I'm excited. After 11 days home with the flu, I am feeling good as new and ready for a getaway to Secrets Papagayo with my favorite guy. Over the years, I've found that packing requires different strategies for different types of vacations. International travel has a few additional requirements.
Confirm the Details:
We often book a vacation months ahead of time, so two weeks before a planned getaway I recheck all the details - hotel, flights, transportation, as well as one all-important detail, the weather. Checking the weather is always important, whether driving or flying. For this vacation, we were set to fly into Newark, New Jersey, but "Stella", the N'oreaster blizzard is expected on the same day. After hours of researching the best options, Scott worked with United and was able to reroute us through Houston, allowing us to arrive even earlier than expected in Costa Rica.
Prepping Your Documents:
*Passports - Check well ahead of time to be sure your passport is current with at least 6 months remaining valid once you arrive home.
*Photocopy of passports to carry in a different section of your luggage in case they are lost or stolen
*Check Covid Restrictions and Requirements for your destination from the CDC.
*Pack Vaccination record or covid test results
*Trip Details - Use an app to gather all of your information in one place. I like the Tripit app for storing all my trip info - flights, hotels, transportation
House Sitter
*Keys -- home/mailbox (or ask the post office to hold mail)
*Gate code (as needed)
*Local emergency contact info
*Wifi passwords
*Info on using TV/Media/Remotes
*Clean sheets/towels
*Stock kitchen with some yummy essentials
*Download WhatsApp in case you need to text with home from your destination for free
Packing:
*Carry on bag - include swimsuit, coverup (if headed to a beach vacation), beauty essentials like the Nars Mulitple Stick, toothbrush/paste in case your luggage is delayed or lost. Medications as needed. I pack a sleeping mask and a few melatonin tablets to help me sleep on a red-eye flight. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. A wrap or pashmina to double as a scarf or a pillow on the plane. Disinfectant wipes to wipe down the tray table, armrests, etc.
*Technology: Phone charge booster - I use one from Anker chargers. Adapters for electrical plugs as needed.
*Download music, movies, TV shows, and a splitter for earbuds if you plan to watch with a fellow traveler.
*Healthy snack - I always carry a snack bag of roasted almonds when I travel. Just a small handful will take the edge off hunger for flight delays, etc.
For Your Destination:
Use a language translation app like TripLingo for communicating with the locals on your vacation. This will make your ease of travel much improved and you will likely impress the locals, even make some new friends.
DO take business cards, or, at the very least, plan to share your Facebook profile with travelers and locals you meet along the way. Our travels are often greatly enriched by the friends we make along the journey. With the dawn of Facebook, it is super easy to keep in touch upon your return home. Hello Colleen and Kevin - from the UK - who we met in an Italian Villa in Umbria, Rolando and Rosemary from Zoetry Paraiso and a ceviche cooking class, Brock and Megan, Jenny and Tyler on a sunset sail in Riviera Cancun and so many others.
FINALLY - My best advice is to simply enjoy the adventure that is travel!
Heather
Getaway to Positano on the Spectacular Amalfi Coast of Italy
Positano possesses a kind of magic that is difficult to put into words. It’s a kaleidoscope of shimmering light, pastel hues, vibrant bougainvillea, and the winding, terraced streets with pastel villas clinging to the mountainside. Boldly colored umbrellas bounce off the chameleon blue hues of the sea. At sunset, a rosy glow falls over the glassy sea and twinkling lights spark the views. Day or night, Positano is a place of pure magic.
Getaway to Positano
Positano possesses a kind of magic that is difficult to put into words. It's a kaleidoscope of shimmering light, pastel hues, vibrant bougainvillea, and the winding, terraced streets with pastel villas clinging to the mountainside. Boldly colored umbrellas bounce off the chameleon blue hues of the sea. At sunset, a rosy glow falls over the glassy sea and twinkling lights spark the views.
Day or night, Positano is a place of pure magic.
The Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast has been on my travel bucket list for many years. Despite several visits to Italy, Scott and I had never made it this far south until July. It was definitely worth the wait! The rumored magic of the Amalfi Coast is all true.
Following a 3 1/2 hour drive, three flights and 30+ hours of travel, we arrived in Naples. Thankfully, our driver, Davide of Dreaming Amalfi Coast, was there to greet us. He ushered us into his luxury vehicle and entertained us with stories of Amalfi Coast and Italian life. Charming Davide stopped for us to take in some views of Sorrento and the entire Amalfi Coast, and offered us some limoncello ice from a roadside stand.
With travel fatigue and jet lag setting in, having comfortable lodging pre-booked is always important to us. As it turns out, the Alcione Residence was the perfect choice for our four-night stay. The intimate boutique hotel of 11 suites is charming and well-appointed with panoramic views of Positano from each balcony. The staff, Katia and Valentina, were incredibly kind and helpful. The location is right on Via Cristoforo Columbo and just two doors away from the famed Le Sirenuse Hotel. Boutiques and cafes are sprinkled along the street, and the bougainvillea covered path to the shopping streets and beach is nearby.
Our suite was beautifully appointed with authentic Italian furnishings, luxurious linens, and brightly colored hand-painted tiles. From wrought iron details to gilded mirrors, we were very pleased with our spotless and cheery suite.
The view from our terrace was captivating.
We stumbled across the street from the hotel on that first weary night. We didn't have to walk up or down the steep slope but simply across the street. We enjoyed the dishes and view so well at Ristorante L'Ancora that we ate here twice and enjoyed a nightcap on another evening.
At Residence Alcione a breakfast tray, with continental breakfast and more items of our choice, was delivered to our room each day for dining on the terrace.
Be prepared to walk and climb stairs in Positano. Comfortable shoes are a must! The streets are steep and winding.
There are many options of things to do in Positano--take in the views, enjoy a delicious meal at a café, shop the boutiques, tour Chiesa di Santa Maria, or catch a ferry or private boat to a number of destinations. If you are in the mood for water sports, they have it all at the beach. If you simply want to chill, you can take a break at a beachfront café. Steps away you can catch some sun or a swim at Spiaggia Grande beach or the smaller Spiaggia del Fornillo beach around the bend.
This is the view of the ornate dome of Chiesa di Santa Maria from the terrace of the famed hotel Le Sirenuse. This spot was a couple of doors down from our hotel and a luxurious spot to grab lunch or a glass of rose'.
Boutiques are plentiful, especially close to the beach, where cruise ships unload passengers anxious to collect souvenirs of Positano. The jewel encrusted sandals are very popular and one of my favorite souvenirs to bring home.
Scott and I beat the heat, and the crowds, by walking up Via Cristoforo Colombo one afternoon. We found a petite sidewalk cafe' to enjoy another fresh caprese salad.
I happened upon the enticing Profumi di Positano. After sampling a number of fragrances, I eventually selected Aova Avrea, a fragrance with the most significant lemon/limone notes, according to the charming owner who helped me. The Barba family started making their quality olive-oil based soaps in 1922 and launched their perfumes in 1965. The brand is now led by the fourth generation of the Barba family. I always enjoy taking home a fragrance, candle or soap when I travel. Smelling it later takes me back to that place in time.
The view from Marincanto. This is one of my favorite images, and hotel views, from our time in Positano.
Surely either terrace would work nicely for some sun and lounging. Don't you think?
If you've watched the first season of Giada in Italy, on the Food Network, you may recognize this area. The cooking show, featuring chef Giada De Laurentiis, was filmed just a short walk up from our hotel at Torre Sponda. Once we booked our trip to Positano, I rewatched several episodes of Giada's cooking show, just drooling over the scenery and the recipes, dreaming of our upcoming visit.
For more on Positano:
A Chic Afternoon at Le Sirenuse
Date Night: Dinner High Above Positano
Boating to the Dreamy Isle of Capri
Day Tripping on the Amalfi Coast [Amalfi and Ravello]
How to Make a Limoncello Spritzer
Here's to living la dolce vita!
Ciao! Heather
As a travel advisor, I typically design full‑service, door‑to‑door journeys—hotels, transfers, tours, trains, every detail handled. But sometimes you may only need that spectacular hotel you already found, and still want access to those coveted Virtuoso amenities. We get it. When it’s a hotel‑only stay, you may feel it’s simplest to book it yourself, especially knowing you’ll still receive the full Virtuoso benefits and have Curated Travel + Cadence standing behind your reservation with dedicated support for anything you may need along the way.