Val d’Orcia valley at sunrise in San Quirico d’Orcia, Tuscany, Italy | photo by depositphotos Last week, I took you on a journey through the northern regions of Italy, revealing the appeal of Piemonte, Lombardy, Veneto, and Trentino/Aldo-Adige. If you missed it, you can read it here. This week, the adventure continues into the heart of Italy as we delve into the central regions: Tuscany and Umbria. Imagine yourself meandering through the rolling hills of Tuscany, brimming with vineyards and olive groves. Umbria’s spiritual and natural landscapes provide a serene backdrop to tales of saints and ..read more

Map of Italy divided by regions with most famous sights in each. | photos by depositphotos Italy has always been a fascinating country to me. Since my first visit in 2006, when my kids were in middle school, I’ve been intrigued by its long history and vastly different regions, each with its own soul. I enjoy exploring a different area every time I return, experiencing the food, landmarks, history, and people that make them unique. Italy is a country synonymous with romance, history, and gastronomy. From the alpine peaks of Trentino/Alto Adige to the sun-kissed shores of Sicily, every corner of ..read more

Last week, I started a conversation about the different rivers cruise ships sail on and how to decide which one to choose for your next river cruise. If you missed it, you can read it here. This week, I will continue with lesser-known or less-traveled rivers around the world. The Nile – The Cradle of Civilization Jeff and me at the Pyramids of Giza | photo by Mohamed Mostafa The longest river in the world, the Nile, has flown gently through Egypt for over 5,000 years, nurturing life and civilization along its banks. A cruise on the Nile is a voyage back in time to an era of pharaohs, maje ..read more

Reichsburg Castle aerial panoramic view in Cochem in Moselle valley, Germany | photo by Adobe Stock Imagine a journey where each bend in the river unveils a new story, a fresh perspective, and an unparalleled experience. At Premiere Luxury Travel, we believe that rivers are more than just waterways; they are the lifeblood of civilizations, the silent witnesses to history, and the creators of exquisite landscapes. Today, we explore the different personalities of the rivers on which river cruise ships sail—each with its own unique charm and tales to tell. Which one should you choose for your nex ..read more

Sydney Opera House | photo by Adobe Stock Planning an itinerary around Australia’s immense diversity can seem a daunting task. While there might be the temptation to cram all that you can into one trip, visiting the “Land Down Under” and experiencing all that it has to offer is hardly possible in one trip. It’s like trying to see the entire United States in one two-week trip – it’s impossible! By choosing quality over quantity, you’ll not only relish a more meaningful experience but also leave ample room for future adventures, ensuring Australia reveals itself to you in all its ..read more

Matamata, New Zealand. Hobbiton | photo by depositphotos Have you ever dreamed of waking up every morning with a new spectacular view without the hassle of re-packing your luggage each day? Welcome aboard! This is what you experience on our luxury cruise to picture-perfect New Zealand. My husband and I are hosting a Virtuoso Voyage on the Seabourn Quest to New Zealand and Australia from January 28 – February 14, 2025, so you have the opportunity to come with us! Embarkation Day: Auckland Auckland at sunrise | photo by Adobestock Our cruise journey begins in the cosmopolitan city of Auckland ..read more

El Arco – photo by Shannon Lamarche I recently had the privilege of experiencing the epitome of luxury at two exceptional properties – Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and Esperanza, an Auberge Resort, and a tour of Esperanza’s sister property, Chileno Bay Resort. These gems offer one-of-a-kind experiences and make an uncompromising commitment to elegance, comfort, and culinary artistry. Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Resort Zadún Property Tour (video by Zadún) Our first stop was on the peninsula’s San Jose del Cabo side. Tucked away on the pristine shores of the Sea of Cortez, Zadún is a sanctu ..read more

photo by depositphotos Travel doesn’t just broaden the mind; it tantalizes the palate, offering a smorgasbord of flavors from the farthest corners of the globe. For the connoisseur of delectable experiences, culinary festivals represent the pinnacle of taste and sophistication, transforming a simple journey into a canvas of cultural and gastronomic discovery.  Come with me, your personal designer of fine culinary travel, as we explore the top five culinary festivals around the world, where each bite narrates a story, and every sip is poetry. 1. The St. Moritz Gourmet Festival (St. Mo ..read more

Belmond barge in France | photo courtesy of Belmond Imagine gliding through the serene country waterways of France, where each bend of the river reveals another picturesque vista—this is the enchanting world of Belmond Barges. Often overshadowed by their larger river cruise cousins, these intimate vessels (with space from 4-12 passengers) offer a uniquely luxurious experience that is as much about the journey as the destinations, whether it is in Champagne, Burgundy or France’s southern regions. French countryside | photo by Belmondpassengers enjoying Ruinart champagne | photo by BelmondSailin ..read more

Guadalajara, Tlaquepaque, Mexico | photo by AdobeStock Mexico is a country that never fails to captivate with its vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking natural beauty, as I discovered when I lived there in the ’90s. I fell in love with the off-the-beaten-path villages and colonial cities that few tourists consider exploring. If you’re planning a trip to Mexico in 2024, prepare for an unforgettable adventure filled with authentic experiences that will take your Mexican adventure to the next level. This week, we’ll explore a collection of authentic travel experiences connecting you to ..read more