Holiday Window Displays Around the World
One of my favorite reasons to book a visit to the city is to indulge my affinity for festive holiday window displays. San Francisco is our go-to during the holiday season and the city by the bay always puts on a brilliant holiday display.
One of my favorite reasons to book a visit to the city is to indulge my affinity for festive holiday window displays. San Francisco is our go-to during the holiday season and the city by the bay always puts on a brilliant holiday viewing. Over the years I’ve also enjoyed the holidays in London, Paris and NYC. I don’t have the photos on my computer but someday I will share photos from the merry holiday season in Salzburg, Vienna and the Christmas markets in Germany-pure holiday magic!
Enjoy this vibrant collage of holiday window displays (and decor) from a few of my favorite holiday destinations. Scroll down for a link to the best of the best from Condé Nast Traveler.
LONDON
PARIS
SAN FRANCISCO
NEW YORK CITY
Read more from Condé Nast Traveler:
Announcing the Curated Travel Mediterranean Cruise with Azamara Club Class-Join Us!
I have an exciting announcement! Curated Travel sets sail on the azure blue Mediterranean seas with Azamara Club Cruises September 28th-October 5th, 2019. Ports of call include Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, Greece, Sicily, Amalfi Coast and Rome on this 7-night cruise. Scott and I are thrilled to offer this hand-selected itinerary in a boutique sized ship of just 600+ passengers. The experience is like a boutique style hotel on the water!
I have an exciting announcement! Curated Travel sets sail on the azure blue Mediterranean sea with Azamara Club Cruises September 28th-October 5th, 2019. Ports of call include Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, Greece, Sicily, Amalfi Coast and Rome on this 7-night cruise. Scott and I are thrilled to offer this hand-selected itinerary in a boutique sized ship of just 600+ passengers. The experience is like a boutique-style hotel on the water!
Book with us soon to receive the ‘Buy One Get One Half-Price Sale’ (includes free wifi) plus Virtuoso perks and VIP amenities. We can hardly wait to set sail and would love to have you join us on this bucket list itinerary. Contact us below for more details and to book your double upgrade today.
Booking Terms: Deposit is due within 5 days and final payment is not due until May 31, 2019.
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Curated Travel Cruises the Mediterranean and YOU are invited! |
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September 28th-October 5th, 2019 |
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Escape to the azure blue Mediterranean with us on an Azamara Club Cruise!
Venice.Slovenia.Croatia.Montenegro.Corfu.Sicily.Amalfi.Rome
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What do we love? Small boutique style cruise ship (only 694 passengers), access to smaller ports, longer/late night stays for full enjoyment of destinations and tons of all-inclusive amenities. It's like a floating boutique hotel and unpacking only once!
DEALS: Buy one fare and get one half-price from now until Feb. 28th! Includes free wifi for one passenger.
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Includes Virtuoso Voyages VIP amenities and perks! |
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“Arrive early in Venice and be immersed in this scenic city of cobblestone streets, overarching bridges, and world-famous canals. After crossing the Adriatic to Koper, Slovenia for a late stay, discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Skocjan Caves, home of the largest underground canyon in the world, and visit the Old Town, with historic sites like the Praetorian Palace and the beautiful square of Titov Trg.
In Sibenik, Croatia, a major wine-producing region, enjoy a local red babić and pair it with freshly caught Adriatic seafood. One of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities, Kotor, Montenegro, is our next destination, then it’s on to the Greek Island of Corfu, home to turquoise blue waters and gorgeous sandy beaches. In Giardini Naxos and Taormina, Sicily, stroll the Corso Umberto for amazing shopping, and climb to the Teatro Greco, a Roman arena with breathtaking views of the sea.
The next day in Amalfi, savor some chilled limoncello, explore its popular beaches, and be amazed by this steep, picturesque town. Where better to conclude than the Eternal City? We debark in Rome, where there are enough landmarks, shopping and incredible cuisine to last a few more days—if not a lifetime!” - Azamara Cruises
Wanderlust Inspired Holiday Gifts for the Traveler in Your Life
There is nothing quite like the right travel accessory to make a difference during travel. We discovered just that during our recent trip to Italy.
There is nothing quite like the right travel accessory to make a difference during travel. We discovered just that during our recent trip to Tuscany. My husband and I both purchased noise-cancelling headphones in preparing for our trip and I can’t tell you what a difference it made in our comfort level during the flights. The headphones made listening to music, podcasts and relaxing much more enjoyable. We even slept better without the constant drone of the jet engine in our ears. This is my new must have for long-haul flights. There are many decent brands and varying price points. Be sure to read the reviews before purchasing.
These are just a few of the travel accessories that caught my eye for gift giving this holiday season as I explored some favorite sites on the web today.
There is nothing quite as creative as giving the gift of travel to someone you love. Contact us at Curated Travel for ideas on travel gifts here.
Noise cancelling Headphones
My must have for long haul flights
“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.
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The Day Our World in Butte County Changed. #CampFire2018
We awoke to one of those crisp, crystal clear autumn mornings where we could see all the way to the coastline from our perch. From the moment I looked out our window during breakfast and saw a menacing plume of smoke racing across the sky, with gray ashes falling into the pool, our world here in Butte County has been forever changed.
We awoke to one of those crisp, crystal clear autumn mornings where we could see all the way to the coastline from our perch. From the moment I looked out our window during breakfast and saw a menacing plume of smoke racing across the sky, gray ashes raining into the pool, our world here in Butte County has changed.
Scott and I stared in shock at that swiftly moving smoky cloud as we flipped on the news to find that the newly named Camp Fire, tearing through our neighboring Paradise, was moving at the speed of a football field every 3 seconds. With my cousins and many friends living in that area we were desperately concerned for their safety. My cousins (and pets) safely evacuated to our house leaving with the roar of fire in their ears. They brought a young friend who had escaped as her home burned, flames flanking the road as she drove down the mountain, with burning embers peppering her car.
The day was a blur as we provided blankets, water, toast & jam, soup, chocolate and a steady stream of news but there was truly nothing that could quell the anxiety and fear for the possibility of lost loved ones, pets and homes. Scott ventured out to the grocery store amidst road closures and insane traffic but made it back with pasta and pizza, comfort food, for dinner.
Though I started packing a few essentials earlier in the day, around 8:30 Thursday evening it all became real as we received our own mandatory evacation order at our home on the south edge of Canyon Oaks in Chico. We suddenly had lots helping hands but left in a flurry of packing, loading and warnings and wishes to neighbors.
This was the view out our window and up our street as we fled.
Scott, our elderly cat Jack, and I ended up at my step-daughter Briana’s home on the north end of town where she, Shawn and baby Charlie provided food, drinks and lots of TLC for the night.
We finally slept but I awoke in the darkness of early morning to check the firelines on my phone to see if our home was possibly still standing. Within an hour we felt pretty certain the fire had not progressed to our home.
We later learned just how close the Camp Fire came to our neighborhood. Our home is the black dot surrounded in blue.
It was sweet comfort to wake up to this little guy, grandson Charlie, and have the kindness of family that morning. By late morning we were incredibly relieved to get the notice that we were cleared to return home.
This was the surreal drive home across town at around 11:30am as I followed Scott in his SUV. I’ve never seen a daytime sky the color of charcoal with an orange glow. We also knew, with that dust and ash came a world of devastation, loss and heartbreak.
It’s been almost a week since our world changed:
My dear cousins lost everything except the few items they could pack into their cars. They are in shock but grateful to be safe and sound. We have numerous friends and colleagues who lost their homes in Paradise and everything but the clothes on their backs. We know some who have lost a family member in the fire.
The devastation in Paradise and surrounding areas is truly jawdropping as you have probably heard on the news. The loss of life is astounding as the stories continue to unfold of residents miraculously escaping with flames on all sides. There are still so many who are unaccounted for and tragic stories of those who were unable to escape the flames. It may be months before some of those remains are found and identified.
There are also heartwarming stories of bravery, generosity and great appreciation. The firefighters have been a godsend. Giving, sharing and volunteering helps to ease the anxiety and stress of the the moment. When an entire town is decimated, as Paradise has been, our neighboring city of Chico is welcoming the residents with shelter, food, clothing, fundraisers, work spaces, governing spaces, places to worship and eventually, places to attend school. The community support is overwhelming and a true bright spot with the grim headlines.
Unfortunately, our town of Chico, with a population of around 90,000 has a 1% vacancy rate. Nearly 7,600 homes have been destroyed in this fire. Homeless camps are growing all over town. It’s cold, rain is coming, the holidays are on the horizon. My husband is at a community meeting right now and just texted me that the Camp Fire has displaced 4 times the number of students as did the Tubbs fire in Santa Rosa last year. It will be a long haul of rebuilding. Not just months but years.
I write this post today since I’ve heard from so many family and friends from around the world sending prayers and well wishes. They have watched the news coverage with horror and want to help. I know many of you reading this are wondering how you can help. Centers are overwhelmed with clothing and shoes right now but financial donations are desperately needed.
A few of my favorite local donation options:
Action News Now Camp Fire Fund 2018
North Valley Community Foundation - Butte County Schools Fire Relief Fund
If you prefer to donate directly please consider Mrs. Davis & the Fox Class on Go Fund me to support a teacher from Ponderosa Elementary who saved her students. Her classroom and home were both destroyed in the fire.
For now, life feels forever changed here in Butte County. We will support each other and we will rise again, hopefully coming out better, stronger and safer than before. We are #ButteStrong.
Thank you for your support and care for our world in Butte County. xx
Checklist for Next Steps After a Fire - FEMA
How It Feels: “When You Lose Everything in a Fire” - Kristen Moeller
A Postcard from Sun-Splashed Tuscany
It’s early morning in Tuscany and the sun is just waking up the autumn hued hills. There is faint citrus scented breeze and a lavender mist winding over the distant mountains. The birds, who believe they are the kings of the castel, are twirping. Tuscany is pretty perfect in fall. Cool mornings and sun-drenched golden days are on the calendar. The evening sunsets are spectacular!
It’s early morning in Tuscany and the sun is just waking up the autumn hued hills. There is faint citrus scented breeze and a lavender mist winding over the distant mountains. The birds, who believe they are the kings of the castel, are twirping. Tuscany is pretty perfect in fall. Cool mornings and sun-drenched golden days are on the calendar. The evening sunsets are spectacular!
Mr. C.T. and I are having a fantastic time exploring the best of Tuscany and revisiting some old favorite spots. For my travel clients in Tuscany now, and those arriving soon, this will be an unforgettable trip Italiano for you. If you are interested in learning more about travel to Italy contact me at Curated Travel.
Follow the latest of our travels on Curated Travel Instagram:
Savour: The Anticipation of Travel
I’m in that lovely space where I’m looking forward to a much anticipated trip to Tuscany but I’m not in the final frenzy of packing just yet. I’m in the phase of researching, exploring, daydreaming about my travel plans. Let’s face it, part of the joy of travel is savouring the anticipation. With travel we look forward to changing up our day to day experience, enjoying new adventures, meeting new people and treating ourselves especially well. Combined with the sensory experience of regional flavors, a cacaphony of languages, a myriad of scents and smells blending into the vibrant color palette that is travel.
I’m in that lovely space where I’m looking forward to a much anticipated trip to Tuscany but I’m not in the final frenzy of packing just yet. I’m in the phase of researching, exploring, daydreaming about my travel plans. Let’s face it, part of the joy of travel is savouring the anticipation. With travel we look forward to changing up our day to day experience, enjoying new adventures, meeting new people and treating ourselves especially well. Combined with the sensory experience of regional flavors, a cacaphony of languages, a myriad of scents and smells blending into the vibrant color palette that is travel.
As I take a few moments to savour this upcoming trip to Tuscany, I’m enjoying this glimpse of our first destination today:
Fonteverde
Fonteverde is truly one of the most outstanding destinations in Italy. Originally built as a renaissance palace for the Grand Duke Ferdinando I de' Medici, the resort overlooks the majestic rolling hills of Val d'Orcia, and is set atop the natural hot springs to fully utilize the healing power of the thermal waters.
We’ve been invited to enjoy luxury spa hotels for the first four days and the itinerary has a “pinch me I’m dreaming” vibe.
Other destinations, on this hosted trip to Tuscany, include Bagni di Pisa, Castel Monastero, a few days in Florence at Grand Hotel Cavour and our final stop at Villa il Poggiale to retrace the footsteps of our first visit to Italy back in 2003. Mr. C.T. will be joining me on this Tuscan adventure and I couldn’t be more pleased.
Along the way I will be researching the best of the best in Tuscany for my clients. I’ve been hearing interest from a number of you for Tuscany so feel free to email me with questions.
Ciao for now!
Thoughts on Tuscany….
“We walk into the olive grove and sit in the dry grass on the bluff. The monastery and the whole world lie before us. Purples, yellows, pinks and blues but all washed, hazy, indefinite, dreamy. The world was dissolving, vanishing. And if you half-closed your eyes, you could see yourself from afar, dissolving in the haze. You could see yourself turning into light.”
Curated Hotel: An Idyllic Stay at Montage Los Cabos
An idyllic stay at Montage Los Cabos. I was pleased to see that the itinerary included a stay at the luxurious Montage Los Cabos, and for 24 hours or so, everything slowed down to a relaxing vibe Montage style.
My recent trip to Los Cabos was filled to the brim with visits to luxury resorts, a gourmet dinner on the beach, foodie experiences and spa treatments thanks to Journese, Los Cabos Tourism and my travel agency, CADENCE. I was also pleased to see that the itinerary included a stay at the luxurious Montage Los Cabos, and for 24 hours or so, everything slowed down to a relaxing vibe Montage style.
From the moment we arrived at Montage Los Cabos we were treated with an elevated level of service. From scented cool towelettes to a signature cocktail, to personalized lounge style check-ins, our every need seemed to be anticipated by the welcoming staff. As you can see, there is an air of relaxed luxury to this desert oasis on Santa Maria Bay. The stunning architecture sets the backdrop for a truly memorable stay.
Within a few minutes of our arrival I was introduced to my lovely guide, Karina, and was whisked away to my suite.
Pinch me, I’m dreaming!!
My second floor suite was a brilliant combination of natural wood elements, luxurious fabrics, authentic Mexican decor with a beachy vibe and all the comforts of home. The spacious balcony with serene views of the desert and sea beyond was a true sanctuary. The oversized spa bathroom had me at ‘hello outdoor shower’. I always appreciate a luxurious bath and this one is my favorite. The outdoor shower is just plain sexy!
Enjoy this video tour of my suite!
“Perched upon the premier beachfront in all of Cabo and set within the renowned master planned community of Twin Dolphin, Montage Los Cabos features 122 expansive guestrooms, suites and casas along with 52 Montage Residences. Montage Los Cabos’ location, including 39 acres on the pristine and gentle waters of Santa Maria Bay, has spectacular views and unique in the Los Cabos region, features remarkable walk-in access to the finest swimming, snorkeling and diving in the region. ”
The spa area at Montage is sublime. I enjoyed a 50 minute baja massage in one of the zen garden suites. I felt like a new woman after the treatment, I promise you. Afterwards, we were welcomed with prosecco and delicious bites at the relaxing spa pool area.
There are a variety of pool options at Montage including the cabana pool with private butler service which is exceptional. The beach is one of the few swimable beaches in Los Cabos which allows for a variety of water sports, from snorkeling, diving, fishing, paddleboarding and more for the active traveler.
Following our spa treatments and poolside cabana time we were given a private tour of the entire resort and the extraordinary private villas. Later we dined at Mezcal and enjoyed a true foodie experience.
I found these decadent little succulents - made of chocolate and creamy ganache - in my suite just before bedtime.
Talk about sweet dreams!
I highly recommend a stay at Montage Los Cabos for a romantic retreat (you may never leave that luscious spa suite with an outdoor shower!), a girlfriends’ spa getaway, a couples’ trip or a destination wedding, celebration, or family reunion in one of the spacious villas on property. This destination works equally well for a variety of travel experiences and it’s one of my favorite destinations in Los Cabos.
Contact me to book this memorable getaway and to upgrade you VIP style here.
Learn more about farm-to-table dining in Los Cabos.
Many thanks to my team at CADENCE Travel, Montage Los Cabos, and Los Cabo On-Time Transfers for the luxury stay in Los Cabos.
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A Postcard from Sunny Los Cabos!
Hola! It's been a whirlwind week in Los Cabos. Four days of exploring luxury resorts with my travel agency team from CADENCE and 4 more celebrating my 18th wedding anniversary with Mr. C.T. who joined me for the last phase of my trip. As you can see, I've had made the most of my time in Los Cabos.
Hola! It's been a whirlwind week in Los Cabos. Four days of exploring luxury resorts with my travel agency team from CADENCE and 4 more celebrating my 18th wedding anniversary with Mr. C.T. who joined me for the last phase of my trip. As you can see, I've had made the most of my time in Los Cabos.
I'm looking forward to sharing more on the luxury resorts I visited and my experiences in sunny Los Cabos. I always love to learn about new options for my travel clients. For now it's a colorful postcard but there is more to come!
If you are considering a beach getaway for your upcoming travels? I have some wonderful recommendations for you as well as perks and upgrades. Contact me and let's make your travel dreams come true!
Contact Curated Travel
