by Jan Mauer | Oct 18, 2017 | European Travel, Luxury Destinations, Luxury Travel, Romance Travel and Honeymoons, Small Group Tours, Travel Tips
Be aware of things that might offend our foreign hosts. Knowing what NOT to wear when traveling abroad can allow you to enjoy closer connections with the locals, and help you avoid uncomfortable situations. We in the United States are used to freedom of speech and freedom of expression in terms of what we wear. It can be a very different climate when we go abroad, especially in countries where such freedoms can sometimes make you a target for reproval by the local government. I want you to have the best experience on your much-anticipated vacation, so let’s discuss what NOT to pack when traveling internationally. Dress to Blend and Not Offend One key to being safe is to not call attention to yourself. I remember visiting Turkey once and wondering how everyone seemed to know we were American tourists. Then I looked down. We were dressed in vibrant colors with camera bags on our shoulders, and bright white athletic shoes on our feet. We looked nothing like the locals around us, who were all dressed modestly and in muted colors. In that environment we weren’t in any danger, but did we have to shout “American” quite so loudly? Just be aware and tone it down a bit. Always respect the local culture, and the locals will, in turn, respect you. Here are 5 things to leave at home when you’re packing to go abroad: If you’re wearing shorts or a tank top, carry a shawl or wrap to avoid giving offense when visiting religious countries or landmarks (such as churches or mosques). 1. Immodest Clothing This is especially... by Jan Mauer | Sep 8, 2017 | European Travel, Luxury Destinations, Luxury Travel, Romance Travel and Honeymoons
When I was a kid, the picture that came to mind when I heard “bed and breakfast” was of a well-lived-in house filled with antiques, overly-soft four-poster beds, a resident cat or an old sleepy dog, all likely run by a sweet elderly couple. While this image certainly has its own kind of charm, the bed and breakfast scene has evolved significantly over the last few decades. In fact, many B&Bs today provide all of the plush luxury of a hotel, with the added bonus of greater privacy, more personal attention, and indulgent homemade meals, often in the tradition of the country or region where you’re staying. Locanda dell’ Artista in Tuscany, Italy, invites visitors to experience authentic Tuscan life in lovingly-wrought luxury One such B&B at which I’ve stayed was a stunning home in the Tuscan countryside. Run by an agrarian family, the property was nestled amidst rolling hills covered with grape vines, spruce, and olive groves, and sprinkled here and there with bee boxes. My room itself was furnished with a plush bed that was cloaked in luxurious linens. The color palette was bright and airy, and the furnishings highlighted the quintessential Tuscan charm conveyed by the gorgeous wooden beams that spanned the ceiling, and which were authentic to the original farm home. I could have spent many inspired days strolling along the paths that surrounded the property, soaking up the expansive views, or just reading quietly beside the fire. But what will stay with me forever was the extraordinary traditional Tuscan dinner that I had one evening during my stay. Bindon Bottom in Dorset, England, offers... 
