Iceland: The Land of Fire and Ice

Iceland is one of the most geologically active areas on Earth. It offers lucky visitors the opportunity to be a first-hand witness to the creative forces of nature at work. With over thirty active volcanoes—and an abundance of glaciers, geysers, and waterfalls— one feels that everything around them is constantly in motion. What you see on one trip likely won't be there the next time you come, or at least it won't be the same!

Northern Italy: Piedmont Wine Region

The Piedmont wine region is situated in Northeastern Italy, with the stunning Alps in the backdrop, and famous for wines such as Barolo, Barbaresco, and Roero – and rich and savory food, including decadent truffles. In Piedmont, we stayed at Relais Villa d'Amelia in Alba, which is renowned for its truffle market and slow food movement. Days of tasting the region's best grapes, paired with Michelin-starred dining, were complemented by cycling, hiking, and hunting for fresh truffles.

Northern Italy: Lake Como

For two thousand years, Lake Como, has attracted the world's jet-set to what might be one of the most romantic locations in the world. The legendary historic villas of Lake Como are an incredible opportunity to go back in time and experience the life of the wealthy European and Noble families who lived there, the famed novelists who wrote, the composers who created, the artists who painted, and the people who fell in love, all inspired by the charm of this one of a kind Italian paradise.

Normandy and Hauts-de-France: A Relais & Chateaux Odyssey

Visiting Normandy is powerfully emotional and especially impactful when considering the region's role in changing the course of World War II and the countless souls who selflessly gave their lives for the freedom we enjoy today. What some might not now is that the region of Normandy has impossibly picturesque towns, spectacular culinary delights, and wonderfully hospitable hotels.

The Rhône Valley: From Lyon to Avignon

The Rhone valley has diverse and very high quality red and white wines that will impress any serious oenophile and satisfy more any palate. The wines can perfectly compliment most world cuisines. They can be much better values than what you will find in Bordeaux and Burgundy, yet it astounds me that many wine drinkers don't appreciate this section of the wine list as often as they should. The gastronomy, charming villages and cites, and lovely weather make the Rhone an absolute home run. Ill be back!!

The Costa Brava: From the Coast to the Countryside of Catalunya

The Costa Brava or "Wild Coast" is an incredibly gorgeous stretch of coast in the Catalunyan province of Spain easily reached 90 minutes north of Barcelona and runs all the way to the French border. The area is famous for stunning beach hiking trails and miles of cycling through vineyards and medieval villages. With the …

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Barcelona: Beyond the Basics

Barcelona is a city that always pleases and is fun for everyone! Cutting edge, artsy, playful, Mediterranean, and proud. It is also a city that is often over-touristed and busy so traveling in 2021 was the perfect time to experience this architecturally-stunning sea-side gem without the crowds. We stayed at the delightful family-owned boutique hotel …

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Champagne, anyone?

Champagne, the finest symbol of the French art de Vivre! The region can easily be reached in a day trip from Paris - 2 hours by road or 45 minutes by train - yet, not spending a few days staying in the region would be a scandal! 🙂 I landed in Paris from Atlanta, and …

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