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
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!
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!
Revisiting Los Cabos for 2021 (plus a chic stay at Viceroy Los Cabos)
Hola Los Cabos, we missed you!! As I shared in a previous postcard here on the blog we flew to the desert meets the sea mecca of Los Cabos last May. The first several days we stayed at the chic, design crush Viceroy Los Cabos where we enjoyed stunning views, stellar service, sunsets from the rooftop deck, and PURE relaxation. As one of our Curated Travel preferred partners, it was exciting to experience this fabulous resort, on the beach in San Jose del Cabo, firsthand.
Hola Los Cabos, we missed you!! As I shared in a previous postcard here on the blog we flew to the desert meets the sea mecca of Los Cabos last May. The first several days we stayed at the chic, design crush Viceroy Los Cabos where we enjoyed stunning views, stellar service, sunsets from the rooftop deck, and PURE relaxation. As one of our Curated Travel preferred partners, it was exciting to experience this fabulous resort, on the beach in San Jose del Cabo, firsthand.
A tour of our suite at Viceroy Los Cabos
(…and what’s not love about a bed and a bath on the balcony?)
Another of our preferred partners is the Auberge group and we thoroughly enjoyed our hosted visit to the iconic, sun-drenched Esperanza perched on the corridor near Cabo San Lucas.
On our itinerary was also a visit to the stylish and family friendly Chileno Bay, also an Auberge Resort.
Our beachside dinner at Sea Grill at Las Ventanas al Paraiso was a delicious treat.
A quick stop to check out the bougainvillea decked Mar del Cabo by Grand Velas Resorts.
A stop in San Jose del Cabo is a must when visiting the area of Los Cabos! Known as the slower-paced, artsier sister of the fishing village turned party scene turned luxury vibes of Cabo San Lucas. We love exploring the area around historic Plaza Mijares, the colorful streets, unique galleries, chic boutiques, and fabulous dining options in San Jose del Cabo.
Los Cabos at a Glance:
To Stay: Viceroy Los Cabos, Esperanza, Chileano Bay Resort & Residences, Las Ventanas al Paraiso, Le Blanc, Montage Los Cabos and the chic boutique hotel Mar del Cabo by Velas Resorts.
*Contact us to book with VIP perks and upgrades through Virtuoso
To Dine: Acre, Flora Farms, Cielo Rooftop at the Viceroy, Cocina del Mar (at Esperanza), 7 Seas Seafood Grill, El Farallon (at Waldorf Astoria Pedregal), French Riveria Restaurant, the Sea Grill at Las Ventanas and Choriarte in San Jose del Cabo.
To Do: Visit the San Jose del Cabo Art Walk (Thursday evenings November-June), hit up the taco stands in town, order ceviche, chips, and guacamole at the pool at noon, swim/water sports at Santa Maria Beach (in front of Montage), rent a car for a day for a spin along the coast to Todo Santos.
Our thanks to the Viceroy Los Cabos and the Auberge Hotels group for the lovely stays and visits.
Contact us to curate your next getaway here.
A Handy New Tool to Fuel Your Wanderlust: Meet The Wanderlist (It’s Complimentary!)
Wanderlust is having a moment with all the time we spent at home last year. As you are drooling over exotic destinations or a travel adventure closer to home? Do you ever wonder if there is a way to save and organize the destinations that capture your fancy? What about sharing travel dreams and ideas with family and friends or even your trusted travel advisor?
As a travel advisor with the global luxury network Virtuoso, I’m excited to share an innovative tool to capture your wanderlust travel dreams (plus it’s currently complimentary!).
Wanderlust is having a moment with all the time we spent at home last year. Are you are drooling over exotic destinations or a travel adventure closer to home? Do you ever wonder if there is a way to save and organize the destinations that capture your fancy? What about sharing travel dreams and ideas with family and friends and/or your trusted travel advisor?
As a travel advisor with the global luxury network Virtuoso, I’m excited to share an innovative tool to help capture your wanderlust travel dreams (plus it’s currently complimentary!) with my travel clients and readers of the blog.
Introducing the Wanderlist:
WANDERLIST FEATURES
Users can create a secure account
Browse destinations of interest and begin dreaming
Create personalized wish-lists
Experiences- Collect unique travel ideas
Hotels- Select from 1400 properties internationally to add to wish-lists
Cruise Lines- Discover cruise opportunities in destinations of interest to add to wish-lists
Share and compare ideas with friends, family, and your travel advisor
Add any wish-list ideas from the web to your list
Users are notified by email when friends, family, and clients create new lists, heart an idea and invite others to share in the fun.
Wanderlist is fun, easy, and FREE!
Consider the latest research on travel planning:
“It’s even possible to double-dip on the experience advantage. A study published in the journal Applied Research in Quality of Life showed a major spike in happiness — lasting about eight weeks — during the planning stage of a vacation, as people enjoy the sense of anticipation.
Another study shows a boost in happiness after a vacation, as people remember the experiences they had.
And the people they enjoyed those experiences with. ”
On a personal note: The gallery above is from our very own Wanderlist with a trip to French Polynesia on our summer horizon. #wanderlist
How About You-
Are you ready?
A Game-Changing Solo Trip to Italy (plus essential packing tips)
I'm reminiscing on a game-changing solo trip I took to Italy three years ago this week. Though I’ve enjoyed several Italian adventures in the years following this entire travel experience opened new doors for my Curated Travel business and reaffirmed my staunch adoration for the magic, beauty, and deliciousness of Italy and the charm and verve of the Italians. Plus, I learned some essential packing strategies I will never forget!
villa balbiano on Lake Como
I'm reminiscing on a game-changing solo trip I took to Italy three years ago this week. Though I’ve enjoyed several Italian adventures in the years following this entire travel experience opened new doors for my Curated Travel business and reaffirmed my staunch adoration for the magic, beauty, and deliciousness of Italy and the charm and verve of the Italians. Plus, I learned some essential packing strategies I will never forget!
I remember how anxious I was about flying to Europe solo for the first time, without my husband, and how daunting it was to be without my carefully packed luggage (a panic!) until the final leg of the trip. I learned how to put my best foot forward despite wearing sneakers to a fancy dinner party at Villa d’Este at Lake Como, how to lead with a smile to distract from my thrice-worn outfit, and that I was bold enough to seek out this adventure and make the most of every moment. I also learned to alter my packing strategies so I’m that never caught without the necessities again.
Below is a collection of blog posts from this transformative journey and if you are missing Italy like I am, I hope you enjoy the views. These photos feel like old friends and I am reminded how I, like so many of my clients, can barely wait to get back to dreamy Italia.
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. - Curated Travel Blog
Posts are in chronological order starting on the lower right. Ciao!
