Holiday Gift Guide from a Luxury Travel Advisor for 2024
It's been ages since I last created a holiday gift guide, but as a luxury travel advisor always on the go, I've discovered some truly chic essentials. I've curated a selection of my tried-and-true favorites, straight from my personal travel collection and recent shopping sprees.
This holiday gift guide is designed for the stylish explorers in your life (including you!). It features a carefully curated mix of thoughtful and practical items to elevate any travel experience. These gifts aren't just useful for the journey—they also help cherish those travel memories once you're back home.
Finding the perfect travel gifts is a delightful journey in itself. Here are some chic and functional options that blend style and practicality, perfect for any travel enthusiast.
A holiday gift guide for the traveler in your life:
Hello, fabulous travelers!
It's been ages since I last created a holiday gift guide, but as a luxury travel advisor always on the go, I've discovered some truly chic essentials. I've curated a selection of my tried-and-true favorites, straight from my personal travel collection and recent shopping sprees.
This holiday gift guide is designed for the stylish explorers in your life (including you!). It features a carefully curated mix of thoughtful and practical items to elevate any travel experience. These gifts aren't just useful for the journey—they also help cherish those travel memories once you're back home.
Finding the perfect travel gifts is a delightful journey in itself. Here are some chic and functional options that blend style and practicality, perfect for any travel enthusiast.
Happy gifting!
Packing/Luggage:
Delsey Paris with matching tote and here are my favorites.
A Weekender Bag (with shoe compartment) - Pictured is my Beis version or similar.
Totes - The Sak Los Feliz and Madewell and Scout Daytripper- A must for travel (plus they make the perfect gift!).
Hanging Toiletries Bag - Perfect size for packing light.
Bagsmart Compression Packing Cubes - I’ve tried several and these have the best compression.
Pill Organizer - To keep your wellness items organized.
11 Pack Travel Bottles for Toiletries - A must for taking my favorite products along.
During Travel:
Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones in White Smoke
Electronics Organizer To keep the cords organized.
Airplane Travel Phone Holder - Comes in handy for flights with no screens.
Matisse Silk Eye Sleeping Mask or here - For on the plane and every night.
Weatherman Compact Umbrella - A small umbrella is a must-have for any season.
Travel Style:
Coach Cross Body Bag - A must for hands-free travel.
Women’s Sweater Set - I have this one in ivory - perfect for travel.
Transitional Travel Jacket - I bought this jacket in both black and white this season.
Ecco Soft Sneakers - Who doesn’t need a little shine in their life?
Magnetic Hat Clip - A must for us hat-wearers!
Gold Bangle Kate Spade - I keep my jewelry simple while traveling and a single gold bangle is timeless.
Dalle Piane 100% Cashmere Wrap Made in Italy - Cozy for the plane and during travel.
Fitbit Luxe Special Edition - I can’t live without my steps and sleep tracker. I love this collaboration with Gorjana!
RFID Slim Passport Holder - Comes in an array of delicious colors.
Skincare & Makeup:
French Skincare: Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre for extra skin hydration during flights.
Mario Badescu Facial Spray - Hydrates, rejuvenates & clarifies skin.
NUXE Huile Prodigieuse Riche Nourishing Oil - Intense Hydration & Luxurious Radiant Glow for Face, Body & Hair,
Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerize Rose Gold - Highly pigmented, just a swipe on the eyelid lasts all day with a perfect pop of color.
Julep Eyeshadow Sticks - Easy, breezy for a little shine in a stick.
Urban Decay Naked 2 Basics - A lovely palette for travel.
Long-Lasting Nail Lacquer - Londontown Bubble - Long-lasting is essential for travel. Another favorite shade here.
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask - Super luxurious lip care.
Charlotte Tilbury - The Super Nudes Lipstick - Supermodel or the Pillow Talk Set is a favorite!
Nécessaire - The Deodorant Gel Eucalyptus - Aluminum-Free Deodorant for Women & Men (it works!)
Fragrance
Italian Fragrance - Acqua Di Parma Colonia Eau De Cologne Spray - I was gifted this sunny fragrance at the Gritti Palace in Venice.
I discovered the Soleil Eau de Parfum - A signature summertime fragrance I discovered in Eze on the French Riviera.
Acqua Dell Elba Blu Eau de Parfum Woman - Another favorite from travels I discovered on the Island of Elba, Italy.
Perfume Travel Refillable Bottle Leather - Turns my favorite scents into a travel-sized version.
I love a coffee table book to remind me of my favorite travels:
Assouline: Lake Como Idyll and Amalfi Coast
Pamela Fiori - In the Spirit of St. Barths and In the Spirit of Capri
Slim Aarons: La Dolce Vita and Poolside
Candles create an evocative memory of a time and place:
Diptyque Tubereuse Candle- Trip to Paris 2012.
Acqua Di Parma LA CASA LAGO Candle - Trip to the Italian Lake District 2022.
Acqua Dell'Elba Mare Scented Candle - Trip to Portoferraio, Elba in 2023.
To Bring the Memories Home:
Frameo Digital Photo Frame - To enjoy your travel images at home or to share.
‘Smells Like She’s Planning Another Trip’ Candle - Just for fun - for the travel planner in your life!
Memories of Venice 2024!
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: A French Riviera Paradise on the Côte d'Azur
This sparkling beauty was the first stop on our European holiday and has long been on my travel bucket list. Nestled on the glamorous French Riviera Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a haven of exquisite beauty and timeless elegance. This exclusive peninsula boasts a perfect blend of natural landscapes, opulent villas, and a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere that has captured the hearts of discerning travelers for decades.
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: A Riviera Paradise
This sparkling beauty was the first stop on our European holiday and has long been on my travel bucket list. Nestled on the glamorous French Riviera Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a haven of exquisite beauty and timeless elegance. This exclusive peninsula boasts a perfect blend of natural landscapes, opulent villas, and a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere that has captured the hearts of discerning travelers for decades.
Following 2 days of airline travel, plus a few extra twists and turns to navigate the rental car, Scott and I were thrilled to arrive at the glamorous
Hotel Royal Riviera. A warm welcome, sun-splashed riviera views, and a chilled bottle of prosecco awaited us.
Steeped in history, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat exudes an aura of sophistication and refined luxury. Along its winding streets, majestic Belle Epoque villas stand as a testament to the area's prestigious past. These magnificent estates, surrounded by manicured gardens and framed by striking architecture, captivate visitors with their timeless charm.
Renowned for its stunning coastline, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat offers visitors a postcard-perfect setting with crystal-clear azure waters, secluded sandy coves, and luscious greenery. Breathtaking cliffside paths wind their way between fragrant pine groves and colorful gardens, rewarding visitors with breathtaking panoramic views overlooking the shimmering sea.
Saint Jean Cap Ferrat has been renowned for attracting numerous notable residents over the years. Some of the famous individuals who have called this exclusive French Riviera peninsula home include King Leopold II of Belgium, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, iconic actress Elizabeth Taylor, renowned fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld, and current Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich. These well-known figures have added to the allure and prestige of Saint Jean Cap Ferrat as a coveted destination for the elite.
Hot Tip: Walk the seaside path from the Hotel Royal Riviera (turn right as you exit the hotel) to experience the true beauty of Saint-Jean-Cap- Ferrat. Have lunch and people watch above the marina or bask in the sunshine of the beach club at Hotel Royal Riviera or the Paloma Beach Club.
The allure of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat extends beyond art and nature. The town's vibrant dining scene delights discerning palates with a tantalizing array of culinary experiences. From Michelin-starred restaurants to charming local bistros, visitors can indulge in the freshest seafood and Mediterranean flavors paired with world-class wines.
The iconic Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, perched atop a hill overlooking the bay, houses an impressive collection of fine art and splendid gardens inspired by different civilizations. The villa's breathtaking gardens, featuring colorful rose bushes, fountains, and statues, beckon visitors to immerse themselves in enchanting beauty. Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is a stunning French Riviera villa with Mediterranean views and well-maintained gardens. Once home to Baroness Béatrice de Rothschild, it is now a museum showcasing her art collection and luxurious furniture. The gardens, inspired by French, Spanish, and Japanese styles, are famous and offer a peaceful experience. Visitors can explore and enjoy classical concerts, stepping into a different era of elegance and relaxation. Stop by the Beatrice Tea Room on property for a proper tea, a meal, or a glass of rose’.
With its unparalleled beauty, historical richness, and refined lifestyle, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a sanctuary where one can bask in the glory of the French Riviera. Whether you seek a haven of tranquility, a playground for the senses, or a place to unwind in sheer luxury, this idyllic peninsula promises an unforgettable experience for discerning travelers in pursuit of perfection.
Our HOT TAKES:
To Stay: Hotel Royal Riviera or Grand Hotel du Cap Ferrat (A Four Seasons Hotel)
To Dine: La Table du Royal, Mademoiselle St Jean Cap Ferrat (the pastries!), Le Saint Jean, Jasmin Grill & Lounge, Le Cap
To Tea: Beatrice Tea-Room (and dining) at Villa et Jardins Ephrussi De Rothschild
To Sip: Bar Jasmin
To Beach: Paloma Beach Club or Private Beach Club at Royal Riviera
To Visit: Villa and Gardens Ephrussi de Rothschild
To visit this jewel on the French Riviera contact us!
Merci!
Heather
A Winter Warm Up in Los Cabos: Where the Desert Meets the Sea
Nothing warms us up quite like a sunny beach destination in the cold depths of January. As I’ve written in previous posts, Los Cabos is such an easy flight from California and I’ve been a regular visitor since the late 1980s. Despite tremendous development, plus a huge luxury boom in recent years, the turquoise seas, golden sands, and brilliant sunshine remain unchanged. For this trip, we stayed at Zoetry Casa del Mar for a touch of all-inclusive luxury. We were thrilled to have my sister, Dorie, and Michael join us for some well-deserved R and R Los Cabos style.
Zoetry Casa Del Mar on Curated Travel
Hola, friends! Nothing warms us up quite like a sunny beach destination in the cold depths of January. As I’ve written in previous posts, Los Cabos is such an easy flight from California and I’ve been a regular visitor since the late 1980s. Despite tremendous development, plus a huge luxury boom in recent years, the turquoise seas, golden sands, and brilliant sunshine remain unchanged. For this trip, we stayed at Zoetry Casa del Mar for a touch of all-inclusive laid back luxury. We were thrilled to have Dorie, my sister, and Michael join us for some well-deserved R and R Los Cabos style.
Things we love about Los Cabos
Where Desert Meets the Sea
Nestled at the southern tip of Mexico's Baja California Peninsula, Los Cabos is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty, luxury, and enticing cultural experiences. Boasting a striking contrast between the rugged desert landscape and the expansive ocean vistas, this enchanting region invites visitors to indulge in a diverse array of activities and unforgettable moments.
Luxurious Retreats
Home to a myriad of world-class resorts, Los Cabos offers an indulgent escape for travelers seeking refinement and relaxation. Many of the resorts also feature exquisite spa facilities, championship golf courses, and gourmet dining options, ensuring a truly opulent experience for guests.
A few of our favorites: Montage, One and Only Palmilla, Esperanza, Le Blanc, Grand Velas, Viceroy, Chileno Bay, and Las Ventanas al Paraiso.
Culinary Delights
As a culinary hotspot, Los Cabos tantalizes the taste buds with a delectable fusion of flavors. The region's cuisine showcases a blend of traditional Mexican fare and international influences, resulting in a diverse dining scene that caters to all palates. Visitors can savor freshly caught seafood, savor authentic street tacos, or indulge in gourmet dining experiences orchestrated by renowned chefs.
A few of our favorites: Acre, Flora Farms, Sea Grill (Las Ventanas), Saltwater (Zoetry), Mezcal (Montage), Nido (Viceroy), 7 Seas Seafood Grill, Los Tres GallosThe Rooftop at the Cape and Sur Beach Club
Cultural Riches
Beyond the opulence and natural splendor, Los Cabos presents a rich tapestry of Mexican heritage and traditions. In the charming town of San Jose del Cabo, visitors can stroll through cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial buildings, explore art galleries showcasing local talent, and savor authentic Mexican cuisine at traditional eateries. The vibrant energy of Cabo San Lucas, with its bustling marina and lively nightlife, provides a refreshing contrast, adding a vibrant pulse to the region's cultural scene. Ask about the weekly art walk in San Jose del Cabo. Currently, it’s every Thursday evening and not to be missed!
Beach Vibes
A Milestone Birthday Dinner for Dorie!
Los Cabos captivates travelers with its spellbinding landscapes, luxurious comforts, vibrant culture, and thrilling adventures. Not to mention the delights of whale-watching in winter from our patio.
Sunsets Los Cabos style!
Thanks for traveling with us!
If you are considering a sunny getaway to Los Cabos we have lots of ideas for you.
Contact us to make your travel dreams come true!
More on our Travels in Mexico:
Setting Sail On the French Riviera!
Just a quick check-in during a flurry of packing and prepping to catch a flight to the French Riviera tomorrow bright and early. Scott and I will land in Nice, and spend a few days enjoying the Riviera while based in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Later we will board the Seabourn Sojourn in Monte Carlo for the 10-Day Tyrrhenian Treasures & Malta with a sparkling itinerary. Stops include Italy, France, Malta (a first for us!), and end in Spain where we will finish up with a few relaxing days in Barcelona before heading home. We are honored to be invited to host this cruise for the Virtuoso Voyages group onboard. When I tell you this cruise sold out fast - it was sold out one day after I posted our announcement!
Just a quick check-in during a flurry of packing and prepping to catch a flight to the French Riviera tomorrow bright and early. Scott and I will land in Nice, and spend a few days enjoying the Riviera while based in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Later we will board the Seabourn Sojourn in Monte Carlo for the 10-Day Tyrrhenian Treasures & Malta with a sparkling itinerary. Stops include Italy, France, Malta (a first for us!), and end in Spain where we will finish up with a few relaxing days in Barcelona before heading home. We are honored to be invited to host this cruise for the Virtuoso Voyages group onboard. When I tell you this cruise sold out fast - it was sold out one day after I posted our announcement!
If you have travel on your horizon and need tips here is an article that may be helpful in preparing for international travel. DM me with questions about our specific itinerary or the regions we will be experiencing along the way.
Follow us on Instagram @curatedtravel (see the feed below).
Thanks for following and
Bon Voyage!!
Heather
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.
