Retirement for Two: "So What Do I Actually Do Now?"

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Retirement for Two: "So What Do I Actually Do Now?"

I’ve received so many comments and emails about my retirement series as I made the leap from school psychologist to launching my Curated Travel business, a year ago. From making the bold decision, to steps along the way, saying goodbye, even my changing spending habits, I chronicled my journey this last year in these posts: Retirement Series. There are a number of readers who are planning on retirement in the near future and curious about how it feels to go through this experience. It’s been fun to share our experience.

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Ocean Vs. River Cruising: Which One is for You?

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Ocean Vs. River Cruising: Which One is for You?

When it comes to taking a cruise on river or ocean, it’s pretty tough to go wrong. Both offer incredible views, luxurious amenities, and the opportunity to explore interesting ports.But each one comes with its own unique perks, and depending on your specific needs for your next trip, you might find that one is a slightly better fit than the other. So what are the major differences?
One big difference can be summed up in one word: intimacy. River cruises tend to be much smaller (190 max vs. up to 6,200 on the largest ocean cruises), and as a result, you’re much more likely to be interacting with other passengers and crew members.

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CURATED TRAVEL - Dream Destination: Cobblers Cove, Barbados

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CURATED TRAVEL - Dream Destination: Cobblers Cove, Barbados

I must have the Caribbean on my mind with a getaway to the tropics on the calendar in the near future. While each island has a unique personality it's hard to beat this one. The sugar sand beaches and fragrant breezes are unforgettable in Barbados. Scott and I were there in 2010 and the vibe of this tropical paradise is the stuff of daydreams.

While researching luxury destinations for a Caribbean honeymoon for travel clients, I discovered Cobblers Cove on the tropical island of Barbados. At Cobblers Cover, the pink and white striped umbrellas, plantation shutters, lush gardens and luxurious Caribbean style suites will take your breath away. Take a peek at this dream destination.

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A Bridal Brunch in Newport Beach: Roses and Rosé at Zinqué

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A Bridal Brunch in Newport Beach: Roses and Rosé at Zinqué

The setting was picture perfect. The rustic table, embellished with nosegays of white roses tucked into vintage urns, laced with delicate greens, and crowned with intertwining wreaths of greens and tulips from above. The vibe was definitely roses and rosé with chilled bottles of Gerard Bertrand Côte des Roses Rosé adding a blush of color to the table.  This was a labor of love and creativity as Dorie created the one of a kind tablescape and arrangements through her popular design business, Broadway Botanicals.

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Simple Steps to Take If You Want to Restyle Your Room

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Simple Steps to Take If You Want to Restyle Your Room

Every so often, it can just feel like it’s time for a change, especially if the interior of your living space has looked the same for a long time. It’s easy to have a vague picture of a newly designed room in your head that will make your decorating itch go away, but it’s an entirely different challenge to make that dream part of your home. There are many different challenges that people face when deciding how to restyle a room, but there’s no need to worry about any of them. Each can be met with ease if you approach them with thoughtful decisions. The key is to take your time. If you want your room to be perfect, you can’t rush it!

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SIGNATURE STYLE: Summer Vibe

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SIGNATURE STYLE: Summer Vibe

We are in full-blown summer mode here by mid-July, at least here in Northern California. Are you feeling it too? Soaring temps, late evening sunsets, bountiful fresh fruits and veggies, backyard BBQs, lazy days - perhaps even the luxury of a poolside nap - all speak to the vibe of summer.  During our road trip last week we experienced a mini-heatwave even on the coast in Newport Beach. It's official: the summer vibe is here!

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A Sunny Afternoon at the Parisian Flea Market - Porte Vanves

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A Sunny Afternoon at the Parisian Flea Market - Porte Vanves

Paris is adorned with a number of colorful flea markets or brocantes as they are often called. On our first trip to Paris, in 2003, Scott and I spent an afternoon at the famed Clignancourt flea market, also known as the Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen, and thought to be the largest flea market in the world.  We shipped home a small container filled to the brim with chandeliers, sconces, trays, perfume bottles, prints and charms from Paris long ago.

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Signature Style: Block Heeled Sandals

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Signature Style: Block Heeled Sandals

Call them a perfect blend of style and comfort and I'll call it a signature style.  I'm spotting block heeled sandals all over this summer and I'm loving the look. My pregnant step-daughter, Briana, showed up at dinner with a stylish pair of black block-heeled sandals last week and reported that they are a comfortable way to wear heels, even when pregnant. Talk about walking on solid ground in style!

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A Parisian Apartment Style Brunch

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A Parisian Apartment Style Brunch

One of the most alluring reasons to stay in a Parisian apartment while visiting Paris is savoring a taste of the French way of life. With a boulangerie, fruit market, grocery, patisserie, butcher and international market on nearly every block, it’s easy to gather the freshest, tastiest ingredients each day to create memorable bites.

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Getting the Most Out of Your Yosemite National Park & June Lake Visit

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Getting the Most Out of Your Yosemite National Park & June Lake Visit

Yosemite is one of California’s greatest natural treasures and a national icon. The majesty of the mountains, the proud sequoia, and the vibrant blue of the glacial lakes can also be enjoyed from the neighboring June Lake. I have a lot of experience with the area, so I wanted to share my tips for the best possible visit.

The most popular area of Yosemite is the highly photographed Yosemite Valley. Anyone who sees it can’t deny its beauty, but in the summer months, it becomes very crowded. The same remarkable landscape can be seen in its northern counterpart, Hetch Hetchy Valley, but with a more exclusive feel. Tuolumne Meadows can also be a more secluded area to visit, and the colorful wildflowers and vibrant, clean water of the Tuolumne River are a balm for the soul.

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Our Stay in a Romantic Parisian Apartment

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Our Stay in a Romantic Parisian Apartment

With sparkling crystal chandeliers, vintage velvet couches, luxurious linens, time-worn books, a pastel collection of vintage plates, whimsical accents like a jaunty top hat, and a touch of animal print, the details of this apartment are charming. The skeleton wall, meticulously restored, is a nod to the early history of this charming space.

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Curated Travel: Romance Inspiring Honeymoon Destinations

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Curated Travel: Romance Inspiring Honeymoon Destinations

Planning a romance inspiring honeymoon is a unique experience for every couple.  After months, if not years, of planning the perfect wedding day, newlyweds are usually looking for some time to relax, refresh, connect and romance. In my experience, luxury all-inclusive beach destinations are top of the list for many honeymooners for pampering, privacy, and sheer relaxation. Your honeymoon is likely the most memorable trip you will ever plan.

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