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Luxury Ski Getaway: The Ultimate Dolomites Itinerary

Written by Iulian Milcomete on September 1, 2025. Posted in Inspiration.

Tucked away in Italy’s northern heart, the Dolomites are where luxury ski dreams come true. Picture this: iconic jagged peaks, world-famous ski resorts, and a delightful mix of Italian flair and Austrian warmth. Sounds like a fairytale, right?
And let’s be honest—skiing in Italy just hits differently: think fewer crowds, mouthwatering pasta breaks, and an alpine charm that puts your typical U.S. ski trip to shame. (Sorry, Colorado.)
So whether you’ve got a need for speed on the Sella Ronda circuit or you’re just getting your ski legs on those gentle beginner slopes, this Dolomites itinerary is like having a personal guide to an alpine wonderland.

© Pljvv | Dreamstime

Welcome to the Dolomites: Where Adventure Meets Beauty

Ah, the Dolomites! A UNESCO World Heritage site that’s all about those dramatic limestone formations and stunning natural vistas. When winter rolls around, this place is transformed into a snowy paradise; perfect for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and, of course, those irresistible après-ski moments. With over 700 miles of pistes and lush accommodations in charming villages, adventure and relaxation go hand in hand here.

Getting There: Your Journey to the Slopes

Most folks kick off their trip by flying into stunning cities like Venice or Milan. From there, it’s a scenic drive through snow-dusted valleys and towering peaks to the charming ski towns of Madonna di Campiglio or Cortina d’Ampezzo. Don’t rush it—every curve in the road is a postcard-worthy scene you won’t find back home.

Once you arrive, take a moment to breathe and adjust to the altitude (you’re a few thousand feet up!). Then get settled into your cozy chalet or luxe resort, where spa days, ski-in/ski-out access, and views-for-days are all part of the experience.

Day One: Evening in the Mountains

Start your first night with a relaxed stroll through town. The villages are magical; pedestrian-friendly streets adorned with twinkling lights, charming cafes, and unique family-owned shops. The architecture? A delightful blend of Tyrolean and Italian styles that sets the stage for a rich cultural experience.

Dinner’s a treat with local favorites like canederli (delicious bread dumplings), speck (cured ham), and homemade pasta. And why not complement it all with a smooth glass of Alto Adige wine?

Day Two: Skiing the Iconic Slopes

Rise and shine! Welcome to a day filled with freshly groomed runs and bright alpine sunshine. The Dolomites are for everyone:

Beginners: Dive into the joy of learning at Alta Badia or Val Gardena, with top-notch instructors who make it all feel like a breeze.
Intermediates: Surf those wide blue and red runs, surrounded by incredible views.
Advanced Skiers: Take on the legendary Sella Ronda ski circuit, a heart-pumping 25-mile loop that winds through four valleys nestled around the Sella Group.

Remember to take pit stops at those delightful mountain huts (called rifugi). They’re perfect for savoring a delicious lunch while overlooking picture-perfect views with a comforting hot chocolate or a refreshing Aperol spritz in hand.

Après-Ski: Relax in Style

After hitting the slopes, unwind in the Dolomites’ incredible wellness scene. The ski resorts here boast indulgent spas with saunas, steam rooms, and heavenly massage treatments.

Want a more social scene? Join the fun at a lively mountain hut for some après-ski merriment. Think live music, glühwein (that’s mulled wine), and an atmosphere buzzing with alpine cheer.

© Flaviu Boerescu | Dreamstime

Day Three: Adventures Beyond the Ski Lifts

Craving a bit more than just skiing on your getaway? The Dolomites have plenty of other adventures waiting for you! Why not dive into these unique experiences?

Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing: Meander along paths that wind through snow-draped forests and peaceful valleys. Consider joining a guided tour to learn about local plants, animals, and the rich history of the area.
Messner Mountain Museum: Scattered across six fascinating locations, this captivating museum, curated by famed climber Reinhold Messner, offers a glimpse into the world of mountaineering.
Lake Braies: Step into a winter wonderland at this breathtaking frozen lake. Its striking turquoise waters and dramatic surroundings are perfect for a peaceful walk or capturing that envy-inducing Instagram shot.

© Nataliya Hora | Dreamstime

Foodies, get ready to feast! The Dolomites offer a scrumptious mix of hearty Tyrolean treats and sophisticated Italian delights. Don’t miss:

Polenta crowned with savory mushrooms or gooey melted cheese.
Kaiserschmarrn (fluffy, shredded pancakes).
A selection of mountain cheeses from nearby dairies.
Homemade apple strudel with a dollop of fresh cream.

Stroll through local markets for handmade crafts, warm woolen goodies, and culinary treats that make perfect souvenirs or gifts.

Capture the Beauty: Photography & Scenic Views

Got a passion for photography? The Dolomites deliver picture-perfect opportunities at every turn. Take a cable car up to Sass Pordoi or Lagazuoi for jaw-dropping panoramic views. Don’t forget to snap the magical enrosadira phenomenon at sunset, when the mountains blush with pink and orange hues—a moment you won’t want to miss.

Before you say goodbye, savor that final cappuccino with stunning views, or perhaps hit the slopes one last time. Take a moment to reflect on your adventure and maybe pick up a few local delights—like speck, grappa, or handcrafted wooden trinkets—to remember your time in the Dolomites.

© Jack Brauer

Let’s Plan Your Dream Ski Adventure in the Dolomites

Are you ready to be mesmerized by the raw beauty, welcoming hospitality, and top-notch skiing of the Dolomites? Whether it’s your first trip or you’re a returning fan, these mountains will keep you coming back for more. Thinking about planning your dream winter getaway? WAC Travel is here to craft personalized Dolomites itineraries that match your tastes, travel style, and pace. Let’s create memories that blend the best of both the slopes and spas—an unforgettable mix!

Why Use a Luxury Travel Advisor? Discover the WAC Travel Difference

Written by Iulian Milcomete on August 27, 2025. Posted in Travel Tips.

Travel these days isn’t just about going somewhere new—it’s about finding the moments that stick with you. Moments that make you smile years later: the way a city’s energy grabs you, or how a perfect sunset makes you forget what day it is.

Since 2007, we’ve been helping travelers turn their dream trips into real-life, pinch-me experiences. Whether you’re flying solo, traveling as a couple, or bringing the whole crew, we’re here to make it so much more than just a vacation.

So, what makes us different? Think of us as your go-to travel besties—we know the hidden gems, the perfect hotels, and the little extras that turn a trip into the trip. Let us show you who we are, where we can take you, and how working with a travel advisor can totally change the way you travel.

Discover Our Story

WAC Travel began in 2007 as a boutique luxury travel agency fueled by a passion for crafting personalized journeys that truly resonate. Our all-women team loves exploring the world—and turning that love into unforgettable experiences tailored just for you!

From the very start, our mission has been simple: deliver travel that’s both luxurious and meaningful. We take the time to get to know your tastes, pace, and style, designing every trip with your unique story in mind. Drawing on firsthand adventures and an insatiable zest for discovery, we create itineraries that bring every destination to life in a way only insiders can.

Where We Travel

Dreaming of sun-kissed beaches, charming countryside villages, or breathtaking mountain escapes? We craft journeys that perfectly match your unique interests and style—because your travel should feel as personal as your favorite story.

At WAC Travel, we specialize in creating unforgettable itineraries across Europe and Africa. Imagine yourself sailing along the sparkling Mediterranean coast, sipping wine in a sun-drenched Tuscan vineyard, carving fresh powder on the Alps’ pristine slopes, or standing in awe of wildlife roaming the African savannah. Thanks to our deep local knowledge and trusted partners on the ground, we bring you authentic experiences that go beyond the guidebooks—moments that turn trips into lifelong memories.

Why Work with a Travel Advisor?

Have you ever spent hours comparing hotel reviews or second-guessing your plans? We’ve been there—and trust us, luxury travel shouldn’t feel like homework.

At WAC Travel, every unforgettable trip starts with getting to know you—your style, your wish list, and your travel pace. Then we turn it into a one-of-a-kind itinerary that’s effortless for you and packed with wow-worthy moments. From dreamy hotels to behind-the-scenes experiences and local secrets, we handle it all.

And because we’re all about ensuring high quality, we personally visit our partners every year to make sure they’re still delivering the magic—so every recommendation meets our high standards (and yours).

What We Offer

Our luxury travel services include:

Custom Itinerary Planning – Trips uniquely designed for you
Exclusive Lodging – Access to luxury hotels, resorts, and villas
Personalized Experiences – Wine tastings, cooking classes, safaris, historical tours, and so much more
Local Connections – Trusted guides and partners
Seamless Transportation – From trains to ferries to transfers: expect a smooth, stress-free experience from lift-off to touch-down

We’re with you from our first conversation to your return home—and every step in-between.

Ready to Travel Differently?

If you’re ready to trade cookie-cutter trips for personalized adventures, we’d love to plan your next unforgettable journey. At WAC Travel, we’re not just trip planners—we’re memory curators, dream engineers, and trusted luxury travel companions.

Let’s plan something extraordinary together!

A busy city square with a Christmas tree at night

The Best Christmas Markets in Europe

Written by Iulian Milcomete on December 18, 2022. Posted in Inspiration.

The holiday season is a time for gathering and giving. It’s also a magical time to travel and experience the traditions of other cultures. The idea of European Christmas markets has taken the world by storm, intriguing those of all faiths and popping up in cities across the United States. As amazing as those markets can be, sometimes you just can’t beat going to the source, and these are some of the best Christmas markets in Europe.

© Lee Walker | Dreamstime

Edinburgh

You don’t have to venture too far to indulge in some European Christmas magic. Just across the pond, you’ll find one of the best Christmas markets in Europe in Edinburgh. In addition to shopping and dining, there are plenty of other attractions like ice skating, musical performances, a ferris wheel, and a Christmas tree maze to keep you entertained. Plus, with the city decked out for the season, crawling from pub to pub will never feel so festive. If you stick around into the new year, you can overlap with the special three-day celebration of Hogmanay.

© Daliu80 | Dreamstime

Prague

Prague is renowned as an iconic culture capital, and visiting during the holiday season kicks that up a few notches. In the shadows of the city’s countless spires lies stall after stall full of remarkably-crafted goods, from wooden dolls to glass-blown ornaments. With a mug of pilsner in one hand and a chimney cake fresh off the spit in the other, you’ll learn to like the Czech life rather quickly. If one city’s worth of Christmas markets isn’t enough for you to get your fix, you could also take some day trips out to the Bohemian fairytale cities of Ceske Budejovice and Cesky Krumlov.

© Leonid Andronov | Dreamstime

Strasbourg

Paris dominates as France’s capital city, a fashion capital, a capital of love, and so on. But Strasbourg takes the title as France’s Capital of Christmas. Tucked away in the northeast, Strasbourg is seldom sought out by travelers until the Christmas market comes to town. Though, due to its proximity to Germany, that may not come as a complete surprise. It’s also the oldest Christmas market in France, dating back to 1570, and it’s clear they’ve gotten this down to science over the centuries. Thousands of tiny lights set timbered facades and hundreds of market stalls aglow, and you’ll forget all about the Rockefeller Plaza tree when you see the one in Place Kléber. Remember to take a break from all the baguettes and croissants to sample some seasonal delicacies like bredele biscuits.

© Ivansmuk | Dreamstime

Zagreb

Croatia doesn’t tend to come to mind when people imagine the best Christmas markets in Europe, but Zagreb’s has been repeatedly lauded as one of the greatest. This capital city often goes overlooked by travelers venturing to Croatia, except when the holidays roll around. Shop your way along the wooden huts from the Strossmayer Promenade to European Square before checking out the nativity scene at Zagreb Cathedral. Food is a big focus around here, with plenty of chances to sample some apple strudel, spicy sausages, cabbage rolls, chocolates, and so on.

© Sorin Colac | Dreamstime

Salzburg

If there’s a country almost as synonymous with Christmas markets as Germany, it’s Austria. This small country packs a festive punch, with Salzburg as its heavy hitter. With a background of medieval buildings and a looming hilltop castle, this city is a perfect setting for a winter wonderland full of knickknacks and delicacies. Not to mention that as the hometown of Mozart and the just a stone’s throw from the town where Silent Night was composed, your ears will be in for a treat with a lineup of musical performances.

© Erix2005 | Dreamstime

Berlin

Almost every city in Germany could’ve easily made this list, but the sheer scope of Berlin’s earned it the spot. Instead of having one big market, Berlin’s Christmas spread is made up of over 60 smaller ones. Offerings can change year-to-year, but with so many of them specializing in different things, the possibilities are endless. Unique activities have included tobogganing, dogsledding, trampolines, drag queen performances, and a climbable viking ship. And in the way of holiday gifts and treats, you’ll find specialties from all over, whether they be wood carvings from Norway or Japanese dumplings.

© Emicristea | Dreamstime

Basel

From snow-covered ski chalets to twinkling medieval cities, everything about Switzerland in winter screams holiday cheer. But for one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, you’ll have to head north to Basel. With rich food, extravagant decorations, and stalls galore, Basel has everything you could ask for. There’s also an area specifically designed for children, with activities like tram rides, crafts, and cookie decorating. Finish up a long day at the market by warming back up by indulging in some mulled wine, waffles, and raclette while taking in views of the Rhine River. And for the ultimate winter vacation experience, spend some extra time in Switzerland to hit the slopes.

Featured image: © Mapics | Dreamstime

A sprawling tan and white palace with a fountain in front and an Italian flag on top

Royal Villa of Monza, Italy: Off The Beaten Path

Written by Iulian Milcomete on October 10, 2022. Posted in Adventure, Inspiration, Italy.

An 11-minute train ride from Milan Centrale, the Royal Villa of Monza offers a stately visit with sculpted gardens, vast lawns and, of course, the magnificent palace! Home to over 4,000 varieties of roses as well as an orangerie, you can be sure that the air is sweet-smelling and the gardens are picture-worthy.

Sitting on the banks of the Lambro river, and at the foot of the hills of Brianza, the English-styled gardens were designed by Giuseppe Piermarini and feature extensive topiary and manicured bushes. The palace is just as impressive with 700 rooms, all decorated in opulent fashion of the time. With an ambitious U-shaped layout, the Royal Villa of Monza is striking to say the least. When visiting, be sure to seek out the small court theatre as well as Appiani’s rotunda, which is located next to the orangery.

With sweeping architecture (26 arched south-facing windows), the orangery makes a romantic statement as it faces the the main courtyard. Added to the original structure in 1790, the orangery housed various kinds of citrus trees, exotic plants and rare botanical collections. Today, the space is home to a museum and is frequently rented out for exhibits, shows and galleries.

Built between 1777 and 1780, the Royal Villa served as a vacation home for the Archduke Ferdinand of Habsburg, gifted to him by his mother, the Empress Maria Theresa of Austria. Not only was the location a picturesque one, but it was strategic as well; positioned along the Milan-Vienna route, the palace complex hosted various royalty and dignitaries visiting Italy throughout the centuries.

Featured image: © Xiaoma | Dreamstime

7 Unique Anniversary Trip Ideas

Written by Iulian Milcomete on October 8, 2022. Posted in Inspiration.

Are you the kind of globe-trotting couple whose has traveled to a higher number of countries than the number of years you’ve been together? Or are you just the kind of couple who prefers less-mainstream getaways? Either way, you could benefit from some unique anniversary trip ideas, and these are a few of the best that Europe has to offer.

© David Vives | Unsplash

1) Basque Country

Sublime food and wine make for a fantastic date night, so of course they would also make for a fantastic anniversary trip. And Spain’s Basque Country sure knows how to deliver. San Sebastián is becoming a powerhouse city on the global food scene, while also serving up some dreamy coastal views. If you’re looking for somewhere a little more sleek and stylish to sample pinxtos (the Basque take on tapas), Bilbao’s museums and contemporary architecture will delight you. To round it all out, the region’s proximity to La Rioja makes for easy day trips through world-renowned vineyards.

© Daniel Kay | Dreamstime

2) Lake District

A walk around a lake is a classic romantic activity, so you may as well go all out and visit a region with lakes so beloved its literally named for them. England’s Lake District has plenty of countryside charm that will gift you endless tranquility. It’s distinct lack of visitors compared to bustling cities like London makes it one of the most unique anniversary trip ideas in the United Kingdom. The hiking opportunities are endless, but if hiking isn’t your love language, you could enjoy a picnic lunch out on a boat or meandering through little stone villages. Once the sun disappears from the sky, you can find the perfect spot to snuggle up under a blanket with cups of tea for some stargazing.

© Ekaterinabelova | Dreamstime

3) Normandy

Paris may be better known as France’s City of Love, but what better way to celebrate an anniversary than with the 4 C’s of Normandy? Calvados (pear brandy), camembert, cider, and crème (cream sauces). There’s no shortage of good food to be had, and certainly no shortage of good scenery. You can stroll through Monet’s Garden in Giverny, gawk at the wonder of Mont St Michel, get a little medieval in Rouen, and picnic where the Seine River meets the English Channel in Honfleur. Throughout all these adventures, you can enjoy accommodations ranging from cozy maisons to elegant chateaus.

© Robert Van Der Schoot | Dreamstime

4) Azores

The Azores are a Portugal destination that more and more people are learning about, but these nine islands in the Atlantic remain relatively untouched for now. The largest island, São Miguel, draws people in with dolphin and whale watching, volcanic craters and awe-inspiring flora. Though São Miguel alone is worth the trip, the smaller islands like Pico and Terceira have their own allure that make for one of the more unique anniversary trip ideas in Europe. After all, nothing says I love you more than summiting a volcano together or tasting wine produced from volcanic soil; whichever is more your speed.

© Xantana | Dreamstime

5) Lucerne

While many destinations falter in the winter, Switzerland shines. The mountains and medieval architecture burst with life when dusted with a coat of snow, luring skiers and snowboarders from all over the world. With the weather being temperamental, it’s best to base yourself in one general area, and Lucerne fits that bill perfectly. You can embark on a cruise across the lake, warm your bellies with a pot of fondue or kill two birds with one stone by taking a fondue cruise around the lake at night. Even if you have no desire to hit the slopes, you’ll still want to hop on some cable cars, like the one that summits Mount Pilatus, for sprawling views of the region.

© Golasza | Dreamstime

6) Puglia

If you’re a couple who’s been to Italy and grew to love it (almost) as much as you love each other, consider venturing off the beaten path to Puglia. Bari, Polignano a Mare, Sant’Andrea and Monopoli offer all the seaside relaxation you could need. Meanwhile, heading inland opens you up to the region’s striking white cities, such as Ostuni and Alberobello. And if the cuisine is what has you obsessed with Italy, fear not. You’ll find focaccia and orecchiette everywhere, and cheese lovers will have to try some caciocavallo. It’s also a great spot for vegetarians, with vegetables being a cornerstone of every meal.

© Aliaksandr Mazurkevich | Dreamstime

7) Northern Greece

No list of romantic destinations would be complete without Greece, but Santorini wouldn’t exactly be considered one of the most unique anniversary trip ideas. Even if you’ve been to Greece before, there’s still plenty more on offer You could venture to some of the less-popular island chains, or you could opt to stay on the incredibly-overlooked mainland. The beaches rival those of any of the islands, the cuisine is equally divine and there’s still plenty of history and mythology to explore beyond Athens. Spend some time touring Thessaloniki’s old town and archaeological sites before lounging on the shores of Chalkidiki.

Featured image: © Haveseen | Dreamstime

Aerial view of stone ruins in the Valle dei Mulini

Valle Dei Mulini, Italy: Off The Beaten Path

Written by Iulian Milcomete on June 7, 2022. Posted in Adventure, Inspiration, Italy.

Hidden deep in the crevice of a cliff range in Italy, the Valle dei Mulini (Valley of the Mills) sits in beautiful ruins. A haunting oasis secluded from the rest of the world, the abandoned buildings are covered in vibrant moss and vines, beckoning to be remembered.

The gaping crack in the rock (created by the Campri Flegrei eruption 35,000 years ago) was the perfect place for the Sorrentine people to build a mill, as they took advantage of the river at the bottom of the valley. In the 13th century, stone flour mills were successfully established to grind grain, then later a sawmill for the cabinet-makers, and a wash-house for women to do laundry.

The mills were the beginning of a flourishing industrial village, though their existence wouldn’t last long. At the end of the 19th century, flour milling was mostly moved to the nearby pasta mills, putting an end to the industry in the Valle dei Mulini. With villagers moving out to find work, the crevice town became obsolete by 1940.

Since the abandonment, aggressive vegetation has slowly taken to the crumbling buildings, creating a mystical and eerie atmosphere. The city of Sorrento has voted to restore the mills, making it temporarily inaccessible to hike down into the canyon. The village can be viewed from the above Viale Enrico Caruso.

Featured image: © Ksenia Samorukova | Dreamstime

Aerial view of part of the Walls of Ston leading down to town on the water with green mountains in the background

Walls of Ston, Croatia: Off The Beaten Path

Written by Iulian Milcomete on May 27, 2022. Posted in Adventure, Croatia, Inspiration.

As the longest walled path in Europe, (and the second longest in the world next to the Great Wall of China), the Walls of Ston is a historical hike with breathtaking views. Nestled into the mountainside on the Peljesac Peninsula, the walls stand overlooking the clear blue waters, making for a picturesque escape from the more crowded tourist areas in Croatia.

Stretching over 3 miles, the Walls of Ston connect the villages of Mali Ston and Ston to the southwest; they start in Ston and weave their way up the mountainside to the Pozvizd Fortress, then meet with the walls of Mali Ston. There are a total of 40 towers and 5 fortresses along the route to explore.

When construction began on the wall in 1335, the purpose was to protect the salt production that was booming in the area; the lucrative salt trade contributed a third of the annual budget for the Dubrovnik Republic during the medieval times. Each stone was hand-carved and placed with care. During an extensive renovation that lasted 50 years and ended in 2009, builders kept that traditional method, and only placed hand-carved stones. A magnificent feat, these walls are remembered and preserved so travelers can walk the path as they did hundreds of years ago.

After exploring the fortified walls, head into the Mali Ston village for world renowned oysters. We recommend the legendary Bote Sare restaurant; their European flat oysters (Ostrea edulis) are incredible. End your afternoon sitting by the bay and taking in the gem of a village you’ve found yourself in.

5 Family Reunion Destinations in Europe

Written by Iulian Milcomete on May 22, 2022. Posted in Inspiration.

Gathering a whole slew of extended family in one spot within the United States for just a day or two for a family reunion can be an absolute nightmare, so planning an entire trip abroad for such a thing could seem absolutely unfathomable! Even if you have a travel advisor seamlessly planning all your trains or flights and transfers, you might still be left constantly having to repack kids’ suitcases or helping an aging relative navigate an airport. But there are some perfect family reunion destinations in Europe that limit the headaches of moving a sizable group around, while still offering something that caters to everyone’s interests.

1) Tuscany, Italy

There are countless stunning villas in Tuscany that can bring you all together under one roof. Culminate each day by cooking family meals in a homey kitchen with the fine ingredients the region has to offer before dining on the terrace and watching the sun set over the hills. Adults will love the world-class wine you can pick up on your way to your villa and kids will love the wide-open, grassy spaces.

Those who want to simply relax can spend their days by the pool while those looking for an adventure can set off for any of the nearby stone towns like San Gimignano in the Chianti area and Montalcino in the Val d’Orcia area. Florence, the capital of Tuscany and one of Italy’s most iconic cities, is also within easy reach if you’d all like to spend a couple of days shopping and touring museums.

2) Andalusia, Spain

When traveling with a group full of varied interests, it’s important to find family reunion destinations that can suit many different needs. Spain’s southern region of Andalusia fits that bill perfectly. History and architecture lovers will be in awe of the many arches of Granada’s Alhambra, Seville’s tile-lined Plaza de España, and the series of white-washed villages fanned out across the land. Those looking for a vacation of sun and sand will thrive in coastal cities like Malaga or Marbella and cultural connoisseurs will love a flamenco performance or a night of tapas tastings. And the outdoorsy will feel right at home amidst the peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

3) Loire Valley, France

Castles delight people of all ages, and France’s Loire Valley has no shortage of them, with a few of the most notable being Chateau Chambord, Chateau Villandry and Chaumont-sur-Loire. The gardens accompanying these architectural marvels are equally impressive, and provide stunning backdrops for family reunion photos. And if you really want to feel like a royal family, you may even want to stay in one of the smaller chateaus around the region.

Meander through medieval streets in historical cities like Tours and Orleans or abundant vineyards out in the countryside. For a unique experience to bond over, consider cruising above the landscape on a hot air balloon ride. Or learn to create culinary masterpieces from a French chef with a cooking class that ends in a delightful meal sure to include lots of fresh cheese and fruit.

4) Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt is one of the best family reunion destinations not only in Europe, but around the world, for a family who loves to ski and snowboard. Shredding your way down top-tier slopes alongside the Matterhorn’s magnetic presence is an unforgettable experience. Whenever you’re in need of rest, you can retire to your luxury chalet share stories next to a roaring fireplace or over a heaping pot of fondue.

Zermatt shouldn’t be ruled out as a summer destination either. Switzerland’s same iconic peaks will be there, surrounded by greenery as opposed to a blanket of white. There are an abundance of hiking trails for all skills levels, whether you’re a family looking to conquer mountaintops together or simply stroll through some gorgeous scenery.

5) Algarve, Portugal

Even the families who love to bicker the most will have a hard time finding something to squabble over, while they’re blissed-out with their feet in soft golden sand and the sound of the ocean rocking against Portugal’s southern coast. The Algarve has gotten more and more popular in recent years, bringing in top-notch dining and accommodations. If some people need a beach break, there are plenty of towns to visit that simply ooze nautical charm. And if you’re the type of family who can’t resist some friendly competition, there’s an array of top-notch golf courses lined with breathtaking sea views for a fun family outing.

Mykonos Restaurant Recommendations

Written by Iulian Milcomete on April 7, 2022. Posted in Mykonos, Restaurants.

With Mykonos having a stellar reputation throughout Greece for its luxurious nightlife, knowing where to go to get the most out of it is key for time well spent there. These Mykonos restaurant recommendations also include a couple of beach club suggestions to help you carve out your culinary and celebratory itinerary on this island paradise.

Nammos Beach Club

Psarou Beach, Mykonos 84600 – +30 228 902 2440 – Website

Dressed-up beach club on Psarou Beach offers hip and refined Greek cuisine for summer residents and visiting socialites. Meals begin with a generous presentation of homemade breads and hummus, followed by golden-fried calamari or crisp house salads. Main entrees include numerous pasta and raviolis dishes with Greek twists like caper and sun-dried tomato sauces. An in-house barbecue specializes in mixed grill presentations of beef and fresh fish.

Scorpios Beach Club

Paraga, Mykonos 84600 – +30 228 902 9250 – Website

By day, Scorpios is a lovely spot to lay out on a luxurious sun bed and enjoy a delightful meal made up of fresh, local ingredients. As the sun sets, a new life is breathed into this incredibly popular club as the music starts to pick up and drinks flow more freely. It’s easy to spend and an entire day and night here with yoga, massages and a small shopping bazaar also available.

Kalita

N. Kalogera, 31, Mykonos 84600 – +30 228 902 7102 – Website

In the center of Mykonos town, Kalita Restaurant is a hip outdoor terrace for a stylish crowd. From the palm trees growing through the rustic-chic wooden floors, to the flowering walls, to the pillows along the bench seating, every aspect of this romantic restaurant is design-forward. As for food, the cuisine is innovative and Greek in style with fresh fish as well as hearty meat options. Vegetarian dishes can be custom tailored to request. Our suggestion is the suckling pig and gnocchi. Reservations are suggested.

Karavaki Restaurant

Mykonos 84600 – +30 228 902 3665 – Website

Lounge bar and restaurant Karavaki is a most privileged spot of these Mykonos restaurant recommendations, with panoramic Aegean Sea views and sherbet colored sunsets every night. With a boho-minimalist style, this intimate spot draws both locals and travelers alike. The seared tuna is a must, as is the bruschetta starter, and ribeye. It’s a fantastic atmosphere with service and cuisine to match!

Thea

Petinos Beach Hotel, Platis Gialos, Mykonos 84600 – +30 228 902 2127 – Website

Right on the shore of Platis Gialos Beach, Thea Restaurant has a contemporary beach-chic feel. From the large palms staged throughout the dining terrace, to the plush couches for lounging, this stylish restaurant creates a dreamy atmosphere for a fantastic meal. Savor the pastel sunset view right from your table while enjoying a post-dinner drink and dessert (be sure to try the Moussaka!).

Via Appia, Italy: Off The Beaten Path

Written by Iulian Milcomete on March 15, 2022. Posted in Adventure, Inspiration, Italy.

Within reach of Rome’s city center, the Via Appia is a gentle stroll along the oldest and longest road of the ancient republic. Stretching from Rome down to Brindisi, the Appian Way is a picturesque path, mostly cobblestone, lined with cypress trees, ancient architectural ruins, and quaint scenery.

Constructed in 312 BC and named after the wealthy and powerful magistrate Appius Claudius Caecus, the Appian Way was originally purposed as an army supply road for the empire. As time went on, the road expanded; many tombs were built here (as bodies were forbidden from being buried in the city center) along with family homes and catacombs. Perfectly cobbled stones create a path to connect these stunning structures, and they exist practically unchanged from over 2,300 years ago.

Although the road reaches a total of roughly 348 miles, the most visited portion (Via Appia Antica) is within the first mile in Rome, in the Parco Regionale dell’Appia Antica. Starting at the Catacombs of San Sabastiano, follow the path to a string of ruins and houses, each more charming than the previous. An easy walk, this route is great for family strolls, especially on Sundays when the road is closed to vehicles.