Stories, Places, and the Art of Travel
Perspectives, inspiration, and thoughtfully curated stories from our world of travel.
Lopud 1483 | Croatia’s Island Monastery Retreat
Lopud 1483 | Croatia’s Island Monastery Retreat
Lake Como - Italy
Lake Como: I think everyone at this point knows where Lake Como is thanks to George Clooney and his famous villa but I have to tell you, I now understand why he spends so much time on the beautiful lake. The third largest lake in Italy, surrounded by a scenic mountain range with small cities and villages, makes this destination a very special place to visit.
Florence- Italy
Florence: I can return to this city many times and never tire of its beauty. There are so many alluring attractions including the soaring Duomo with an unforgettable facade, the magnificent and revered statue of David at the Uffizi, and the spectacular Tuscan cuisine. Visiting Florence in October during the white truffle and porcini mushroom season is a must. The weather is perfect for strolling the narrow streets and getting lost in this beautiful city.
Tuscany - Italy
Tuscany: This region is characterized by the rolling hills as far as your eyes can see, the splendid cuisine, the wine, and the serenity. Val d' Orcia was one of the most scenic areas in Tuscany - a place where one forgets where they are or where they are going, captivated by beauty and simplicity of Tuscan life.
Barbados
Barbados: I always consider Barbados as one of the larger islands in the Caribbean. Although only 21 miles long, nevertheless compared to some of its neighboring islands, it is double or even trip in size. Since Barbados is located way south in the Caribbean, it is the perfect destination any time of the year and out of harm's way of hurricanes. When I think of Barbados, it makes me think of an island that has great infrastructure, beautiful beaches, fantastic restaurants in abundance and an English flare with a laid back island feeling. And then - there is the Sandy Lane Hotel - the iconic grand dame of the Caribbean.
Discover Anguilla!
Anguilla is an island abundant in alluring natural beauty marked by never-ending shorelines of pristine vanilla-hued beaches lined with swaying palm trees and clear blue skies. Desired by most travelers who venture to the Caribbean in the cold winter months, I was greeted with the perfect tropical climate that erased my memory of the wintery winds I left in New York City. The pleasant climate was only surpassed by the warmth and comforting hospitality that radiated from each and every Anguillan native. All of these accommodating elements combined made me feel right at home.
Mediterranean Splendor - Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos, atop one of Greece’s most lavish peninsulas, is home to Santa Marina’s collection of luxury villas and boutique resort. Of the many Greek islands that one can visit, I find Mykonos to be the most diverse, boasting options for both lavish celebration as well as plush relaxation. Upon my arrival, I was greeted with an alluring sight of seductive blue waters paired with ideal temperatures and uninterrupted sunshine every single day. Characterized by a very cosmopolitan scene, Mykonos is home to world-renowned restaurants and it is famed as a five-star party destination - if you choose to partake.
Miami: Acqualina Hotel
The Acqualina Resort & Spa is a luxurious tower that boldly ascends directly above Florida’s exclusive Sunny Isles Beach. Artfully influenced by modern Mediterranean glamour, the high-rise is accented by a calming palette of soft, soothing colors, combined with statuesque architectural design characteristic of a secluded seaside palace. Upon arriving, the entry instantly lures you into an intricately lavish lobby and through a picturesque procession that beckons you beyond the pristine pools and directly to the soft sands and glistening swells only steps away. Looking back at the Acqualina you will see a rhythmic series of suspended balconies that each capture sweeping views of the breathtaking horizon – that is, if you’ve requested an oceanfront setting. In addition to the grandeur and spaciousness of each room, many of the tower’s levels accommodate no more than 4 guest quarters, creating the perfect environment for extreme privacy and discretion.