Nice & Monaco

Safely making it to our first destination: Nice, France and exploring Northern Italy until we arrive in Venice to fly to Greece! We are calling this adventure Nìce—>Greece!!

A few years back, I was able to visit the south of France with my sister: making a stop in Monaco. Having been here before, I was able to relax and explore what I had enjoyed from the last trip and skip out on the unnecessary tourist traps. My husband and I had explored Bordeaux last summer, so this was a fun way of incorporating our love of France and Italy with a new destination. (He had need been here before.)

While planning this trip, we had two definitive plans: Start & Finish. We were starting in Nice and needed to get to Venice in the next 10 days. There were certain destinations I mapped out in hopes of seeing, but my plan was to let the weather help guide the trip. There was no reason to spend a long time somewhere if the weather wasn’t going to cooperate. As you know, my favorite time to travel anywhere is in the shoulder season. I like to avoid the crowds, know the weather will be more predictable, and maximize my time in any destination. Now, the end of September-Beginning of October isn’t necessarily the shoulder season, but it is definitely when areas begin to slow down.

Enjoying Wine on the Boscolo Exedra Rooftop

We had a long trip ahead. We wanted to stay at nice places, but also needed to be smart about where we were going to splurge and where we could opt to use points. My dream trip was to make it to Greece, so about a year ago I booked my hotels in Mykonos and Santorini. I created a spreadsheet of all the expected costs of hotels and flights. I used United Points to fly free to Nice, AND used AMEX Points to fly home from Greece. **

In Nice, we used SPG points to stay at the beautiful Boscolo Excedra Nice. It couldn’t have been better timing either because of the Marriott-SPG Merger of points that occurred in August. On top of using points at this hotel, our breakfast was included. This is not to say your ordinary continental breakfast—this was an over the top luxury breakfast with cake, pastries, rolling drink carts with buffet and a la carte menu options!

The hotel has historic charm with newly updated renovations. Boscolo Excedra is sophisticated with modern art in the lobby and a newly added rooftop bar with a sleek pool overlooking the heart of Nice, Fr.

We were able to pick up our rental car from the Nice airport via Hertz Gold and valet at the hotel. I always try to find the best deal and earn valuable points when booking a car. It also helps to sign up for their loyalty programs, so you can skip the line when picking up & returning your vehicle. After a long flight + jet lag… the last thing you want to do is wait for your vehicle!

We are both relatively light packers, but we were going to be gone for close to 3 weeks with very different destinations along the way. We managed with two small suitcases; however, on the first night there was a bit of a cross wind we did not expect and needed to do a little shopping. Fortunately, Nice has plenty of shops and the hotel is centrally located next to the shopping district with walking distance to the famous Promenade des Anglais as well as the train station.

After a little shopping, we headed down to the plage (beach) and grabbed some cocktails from the Ruhl Place. I had been here before, so I knew the people watching would be great. Unlike the states, most of the beaches are not enjoyed on sand, but rocks, so the beaches are lined with chairs and umbrellas for comfort. This adds an element of beauty as well as optimal location with close proximity to the ocean for a drink.

After a day of leisure by the beach, our friend carries the cushions from the day away for the night. It’s a balancing act on the promenade and he seems to do a fabulous job.

Awaiting a beautiful sunset in the south of France. Can’t help but enjoy this view.

Notable Hotels to Stay at or at least check out for a cocktail overlooking the Mediterranean:

• Hotel Royal-Riviera

• Hotel La Pèrouse

• Grand Hotel du Cap Ferrat: A Four Seasons Hotel

• Hotel du Cap-Eden Roc * Think Slim Aarons backdrop, photographing socialites

Nice is on the French Riviera, so here are some places to go for day trips. Some available by train, others would be helpful to hire a driver or rent a car.

• Saint Tropez: Coastal town on the French Riviera. Located in Southeastern France. Known for it’s beaches and nightlife. (1hr 30 mins from Nice)

• Cannes: Famed for the International Film Festival, lined with sandy beaches and upscale shopping. (37 mins driving, 42 mins train from Nice)

• Provence: Southeastern France bordering Italy, known for its lavender fields. (2hr 11 mins driving)

• Marseille: Historic Port City in Southern France. (2hr driving from Nice, possible stop if going to Provence)

While in Nice, be sure to check out the famous Promenade des Anglais with high-end shops, restaurants, and even a Casino overlooking the water! The walkway travels along the mediterranean with unobstructed views. The hotels are on the opposite side of the street, so pedestrians are able to walk while gazing at the water.

Complimentary Champagne at Monte Carlo Casino, Monaco

Before leaving Nice, we made sure to enjoy our decadent breakfast provided by the hotel. The service could not have been better or more memorable. I would highly recommend this hotel-especially if you are an SPG-Marriott-Ritz loyalty rewards member. IF not, maybe look into joining!

Pancakes with Whipped Cream A La Carte

Next Stop…. Formula 1 Race…. OH WAIT…. that didn’t happen.. but it should have! Next time i’ll try to incorporate my need for speed with a race. But all jokes aside, Monaco awaits us! Monaco is a quick drive or train ride from Nice; I highly recommend spending a day or night in Monaco. There is a bit of a night scene here if you are looking for a fun night out. There are definitely some fun cars to check out… if you are into that sort of thing… which I am!

Overlooking Monaco Harbour filled with “tiny” yachts

Driving from Nice to Monaco only takes about 30 minutes. It took more time trying to find a parking spot. (Not really, but parking is limited especially during their high season.)

I had enjoyed Monaco in the past, so I headed towards the Monte Carlo Casino for shopping and a light lunch. The Casino doesn’t open until 2pm; however, you are able to explore the casino and grounds prior to the opening.

If you would like to walk around a bit, there is a walk up to the highest point of Monaco. The walk will lead you to the palace with a beautiful view of the harbor. This is where the prince “resides.” The architecture is fascinating—with light colored pastels.

outside of the monte carlo casino photo credit DALLARA :)

Where to Stay in Monaco:

• Hermitage Hotel

• Hotel Metropole Monte Carlo

• Fairmont Monte Carlo

• Hotel de Paris

• Le Meridien Beach Plaza

• Monte Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort

Surrounding the Casino is all of the high end designer shops. If you plan to shop make sure to fill out your VAT forms and have them stamped before leaving Europe so you can enjoy the thrills of TAX Free shopping. Boys.. I know you hate us shopping, but we are going to anyways…. so this way we both win!

Before the casino opened, we strolled the grounds.

This was a shot of the interior of the Casino overlooking the back which faces the Mediterranean. Once the casino opens, there are available tables on the back deck so you can enjoy the best of both worlds: View & Gambling!

After a little shopping, dining, and exploring we were off to our next destination: ITALY!!

The way out of Monaco is a winding—uphill battle fyi if you are planning to drive. There is only one exit and its a winding-narrow road to Italy. Very Beautiful though.

Next Stop: Cinque Terre & Portofino!! until next time, safe travels. Au Revoir!

Cape Town & Stellenbosch

Cape Town became a huge factor when deciding the location for our safari trip. We have had several friends visit the region, for various occasions, and all the feedback was positive.   Located right on South Africa's southwest coast, with one of the greatest wine regions in the world, and one of the world's seven wonders of the world: Table Mountain.

Camps Bay 

We ended our trip to South Africa in Cape Town, visiting the Stellenbosch region, staying in the harbor, steps away from the V&A Waterfront, and overlooking Table Mountain.  Cape Town is filled with excursions if you want to explore:

• Table Mountain
• Robben Island, Nelson Mandela
• V & A Waterfront, Shopping
• Cape Point
• Camps Bay
• Penguins at Boulders Beach
• Seal Island, *Think Shark Diving

But if you are looking to relax and enjoy your surroundings, there is much of that as well! The ocean is too cold to swim in (I think) but it is beautiful.  There are also several hotels with nice pool layouts as well. 

View from Table Mountain

Our sleeping patterns were a bit off most of the trip.  We were waking up at 5:30am every morning for the game drives on the safari and staying up fairly late.  By the time we got to Cape Town, we were still getting up early and eager to take advantage of the day.  We decided to head up to Table Mountain first thing.  It was a beautiful and clear view.  I suggest a wide lens if you are bringing a camera.. just so you can capture more of the landscape.  If not, fear not, my iphone took some incredible photos as well.

Table Mountain is one of the most iconic and photographed landmarks in South Africa. It was named the world's new seven wonders of the world in 2012. The hotel we stayed at overlooks the harbor and the mountain.  If you are looking to get a closer look, you are able to hike the mountain and also take a cable car to the top.  

*Tip If you are planning on taking the cable car, arrange to buy tickets prior so you don't need to wait in the line. Also, plan on going when the weather is going to be clear so you have the best view of Cape Town. There is an additional hike to Lion's Head, which is a peak in-between Table Mountain and Signal Hill that may be worth for the view as well. 

The Back Side of Table Mountain overlooking Camps Bay. 

After Table Mountain, we headed to Camps Bay.  This may have been my favorite spot in Cape Town and reminded me of a beach community with beautiful summer homes and restaurants along the beach.  

Camps Bay

We enjoyed a lovely lunch, with crispy calamari and rosé, gazing out at the ocean.  As we finished up our lunch we noticed, this chic, boutique hotel just steps away.  I first noticed the infinity pool overlooking the beach, then the gate to the Bay Hotel.

Bay Hotel

We had to go inside and take a peak.  If and when we return to Cape Town, this will be a spot I need to stay at, at least one night.  They also have a sister hotel down the road: Camps Bay Retreat Boutique Hotel.  

The owner of Bay Hotel has a fine appreciation of cars! I love cars...so we could be friends!

Our hotel was the One & Only Cape Town located footsteps from the V&A Waterfront and right next to the harbor.  Rooms overlook Table Mountain and the harbor with one of my favorite restaurants located right inside: Nobu. Justin Bieber was in town the first night we arrived.  We sat on our balcony and could see the sky light up with fireworks from his concert.  

One & Only Room View

One & Only Cape Town 

May is the start of the "winter" season in South Africa, it was beginning to feel like fall in the states.  The weather was still warm when we were there and dry!  We enjoyed a few days by the pool and walking around the area with only a light sweater needed at night. 

Pool at One&Only  

Cape Town is home to some of the best restaurants in the world.  Fresh & local ingredients, with wine pairings off the charts from their own back yard.  Cape Town has some restaurants that will make foodie wish lists. (Think* Test Kitchen)

Notable restaurants in Cape Town:

• Aubergine, near the gardens, centrally located to several hotels
• Beluga, sushi, dim sum, African fusion
• Atlantic Grill (At the Table Bay Hotel), V & A Waterfront, enjoyable location, nice for drinks
• Pot Luck Club, chic tapas in a cool atmosphere
• Nobu, world class sushi, with restaurants all over the world
• Test Kitchen, *Top Restaurant in the world, with a reservation list booked months in advance. 

 

Stellenbosch & Franschhoek: Wine Country

The wine lands make a great day trip, or mini getaway from Cape Town as there are several boutique hotels.  You have two options: Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.  

Delaire Graff Estate

Stellenbosch is South Africa's second oldest town and perhaps the most beautiful. It came to be farm land for the growing needs of the boats passing through from Europe.  The manors are Cape Dutch inspired with oak lined streets.  Stellenbosch is much larger than Franschhoek with many different options for wineries.  Some vineyards you may have heard of from this region: Rust en Vrede, Overture, and Thelema Mountain Vineyards, just to name a few. Regardless of your wine route, I highly suggest having lunch at Delaire Graff Estate (also a hotel.)  This location is absolutely beautiful, situated between two peaks. 

Yes, this name may ring a bell.  It is the same Graff as... Graff Diamonds, home to the most fabulous jewels in the world.  There is, in fact, a jewelry store right inside the main building. 

Franschhoek is a village and a bit smaller than Stellenbosch.  The name means French Corner, and there are monuments honoring the French Settlers.  Just like Stellenbosch, this is the food and wine lands. Both are lovely, and you should speak with your driver on which vineyards and routes may suit you best.  But, Do not miss out on lunch at Delaire Graff Estate. 

Delaire Graff Estate

Wineries on our Trip to Stellenbosch

De Toren Private Cellar was a winery suggested by a very good friend.  We were able to get a private visit and tasting of the property.  This is a smaller vineyard with exquisite wine.  Black Lion & Book XVII are two limited edition wines from smaller wine blocks we sought them out for.   Black Lion only produces 5 barrels a year, and Book XVII produces 4 barrels: which equates to a little over 1,000 bottles individually numbered.  

We knew in advance that we wanted to purchase some wine and bring it back for our wine cellar. De Toren Private Cellar allowed us to choose the exact bottles to bring back, as all of the 1,000 bottles are numbered!  This is a fairly unique, and special gift to bring back home to celebrate in years to come. We were able to choose important dates in our life to remember the bottles. 

De Torren

De Toren Book XVII: The Four Barrels of Book XVII for the 2016 production.

Next Stop: Rust en Vrede 

Rust en Vrede only produces red wine and one of South Africa's largest exported wines. Rust en Vrede was chosen by President Nelson Mandela to be served at the Nobel Peace Prize dinner and they were the first South African wine to be ranked in the Top 100 wines of the world. 

Rust en Vrede  

Our last stop was closing, so we were just able to get in for a quick tasting.  If you hire a driver, they will be able to make a wine route of your liking based on the type of wine you prefer.  My husband and I both prefer red wine, which is why we chose this route.  Most of these vineyards specialize in red or white. Pinotage, which sounds like Pinot Noir, is a red wine grape found in South Africa and their signature variety.   It is a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsaut, with a dry result. 

Stellenbosch

After a full day of exploring Wine Country, it was time to head back to Cape Town.  We headed to the V & A Waterfront and enjoyed the sunset with some cocktails.  It was Friday night, and everyone was getting ready to celebrate.  Bands played in the streets, rooftop bars flooded with people ready to throw their heels up, and everyone posed for the "Cape Town" Photo opp. 

..I too indulged, because.. why not?!

The markets and shops are located all around this area, so if you are looking to buy some African Souveniers, this is where you will want to do so.  Just remember to save your receipts to get the tax back when you leave South Africa. 

As this was our vacation, we decided to relax on the final day in South Africa.  Instead of another excursion, we soaked up the sun by the pool and did a bit of shopping for our friends and family back home. The flight home was fairly painless.  We took a short flight from Cape Town to Joburg, then a direct flight back to JFK.  Fortunately, it is a direct flight, most of the U.S. needs a connection.  

Will be heading to Block Island next weekend, then most of July and August.  Stay tuned to see my adventure in London, Bordeaux, & Paris in the next few weeks.  I hope everyone enjoys the start to their summer (Or Winter for you on the southern hemisphere!) 

Until Next Time, Safe Travels!!

V&A Waterfront

Athens, Mykonos, Santorini... Oh My!

Hello Greek Gods & Goddesses! 

I couldn't be more excited to visit Greece. I took Latin for 8 years and the history (like Rome) has always intrigued me. This will be the full package trip: History in Athens, Party in Mykonos, and Relax in Santorini. 

Our itinerary: Fly overnight Friday, spend a few days in Athens--shoot over to Mykonos for 3 days, then end the trip in relaxing and gorgeous Santorini.  8 nights, 3 cities. 

Athens

Athens:  The center of Greek civilization for 4,000 years, with landmarks like the Acropolis, Parthenon, and the Olympic Stadium...eek!  We will land in Athens Saturday and power-through (SLEEP ON PLANE!) We will enjoy two days in Athens then fly to Mykonos!!!

Like all trips, I need to look at what i'm willing to spend and where I want to splurge.  Currently, I'm planning on splurging a bit in Santorini at an all-suite resort (with private pool) and looking at where my money will give me the most luxury for the best price in the Mykonos.  Fortunately, Mykonos is less expensive than Santorini, so i'm able to get the same luxurious stay for half the price tag! Cha-Ching! 

Temple of Zeus

Athens Hotels: There were three hotels in contention: all three were found on my usual hit-lists, so I know they are up to my standards.  I have a friend who travels quite a bit in Greece and he has told us.... the place-to-be is The Hotel Grande Bretagne. We are taking his word! 

King George Suites

3 Hotels for Comparison: Keep in mind there are many hotels: including the Intercontinental; however, since we are staying such a short time, we've opted for the hotel with the view. But, if you are looking to use or earn points--always search for your brand!

• King George
• Divani Palace Acropolis
• Hotel Grande Bretagne

Hotel Grande Bretagne:  Our choice for Athens! This luxury hotel is in prime location in Constitution Square.  The GB Garden Rooftop Bar provides Greek delicacies overlooking the Acropolis.  If this isn't your fancy (but of course it should be) enjoy a cocktail under the tapestry of Alexander the Great in Alexander's Bar.  

View from GB Garden Rooftop

We will spend our time in Athens walking to the landmarks and learning more about the history of Greece. 

Next Stop.... Mykonos!

Mykonos: part of the Cyclades island group in the Aegean Sea, is known to be more of a party island compared to Santorini.  Both, however, are known for being glamorous and breathtakingly beautiful. 

Medieval Streets of Mykonos

3 hotels for consideration:

• Kivotos Luxury Boutique Hotel
• Mykonos Grand Hotel
• Santa Marina

View of Mykonos Town

Using 5 different sources, I narrowed down my search based on what was frequently suggested.  The sources I used were:

• Conde nast Traveler
• Travel & Leisure
• Tablet
• United Chase Mileage Luxury Hotels Book
• American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts Book

Like I've mentioned in previous destinations, there are more affordable sites to use: KAYAK, Trip Advisor, Travelocity, Orbitz..etc  But I like to find luxury boutique hotels and narrow down my search from there.  

Kivotos Luxury Boutique Hotel: This is a very boutique hotel, offering 40 rooms. The sea rooms are worth the splurge. The hotel is steps away from a secluded beach.  Restaurants & Bars on-site: Del Mar Bar a cocktail swim up bar, K Bar a cosmopolitan atmosphere, and two different dining experiences. Kivotos offers a private dining experience anywhere on site, and a gourmet dining experience at La Meduse.

Kivotos

Santa Marina, Luxury Hotel & Resort: Bungalows built into the hills above a private beach. The hotel offers 96 rooms, of those, most offering sea views.  Santa Marina is part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, so if you are looking to use or earn some points, this may be helpful for you to know. This hotel is a 5 minute walk to town. This hotel also offers Olympic size tennis courts! There is a lobby bar with panoramic sea views, the Buddha Bar which is beachside, and the Colonial Pool Restaurant & Bar, which is poolside with romantic sea views. 

Santa Marina 

Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort: Located on the Ayios Yiannis beach on the island's southwest coast.  The hotel offers 107 luxury room, offering panoramic sea views. Dining & Cocktail Offerings: the White Bar, Pool Bar, Pool Deck, Personalized Dining, Aqua & Sole, and The Dolphins of Delos. 7 Minute drive to downtown. 

Ultimately, after weighing out my options. I decided The Mykonos Grand Hotel was my choice.  All three were amazing, so I knew I couldn't make a bad decision, but the size, location and amenities were what I preferred. It also helps that they offer tennis and squash courts!

Sunset at Mykonos Grand Hotel

To be honest, the room options were what stole my heart. The view is going to be spectacular anywhere we stay.  This hotel offers-private jacuzzis, pools, and shared pools for all rooms with a sea view.  I opted to upgrade for a slight up-charge.  Instead of sharing a pool: we have our own jacuzzi! *If you are looking for the ultimate experience, you could get the executive suite with private infiniti pool!

Pool View at The Grand Mykonos

Below is the view from my home for three days !!!

Premium Sea View with jacuzzi

One Extra Hotel for you Party PEOPLE: Belvedere Hotel is located right downtown, no beach, but the party is brought to them.  If you are looking to come to Mykonos just for the pool & party scene this may be the place for you. Some other spots may cater a bit towards romance and honeymoons. 

Belvedere Hotel, C-Bar

Where to head out in Mykonos: This is the party island, so here's a few suggestions to let your hedonism out! Beach parties run the scene during the day- think Paradiso Club or Psarrou Beach. 

Space Dance

• C-Bar at the Belvedere Hotel: head here for sunset scene into the wee hours
• Space Dance: if you are looking for a club prior to 4am-hit this spot up. Large dance floor-younger crowd.
• Cavo Paradiso Club, overlooking Paradise Beach, this party will get started during the day and continue!

Cavo Paradiso Club

After partying on the Mykonos, we will be looking for relaxation in Santorini!

Last Stop: Santorini!

Santorini: Blue Ocean, Blue Sky, Blue Roofs, and White buildings. Blue & White-my go to colors, so staying on a cliff over-looking the ocean in an infinity pool sounds pretty much perfect to me. I have never found a pool I didn't like, especially infinity pools overlooking the Aegean Sea.

Canaves Oia Suites

Since I have not been yet, my research for this trip has been pretty extensive: so I will walk through how I selected my hotel and maybe it can be useful for you.  I use this research for pretty much every International trip. This part of my trip was where the most planning came out. Originally, I wanted to spend 7 nights here, but was persuaded to split the trip (activity driven on the front end.)

Santorini Sunset

1. I am a subscriber to Condé nast Traveler & Travel & Leisure both magazine and I follow them on instagram.  I like to see places I've never been and get ideas- and I write down all of the recommendations from both sources then see which ones match up.  

Canaves Oia Suites

2. Other sources I find to be incredibly helpful--This is for you wise folks using you credit card perks like a pro- With my AMEX card I receive the Fine Hotels & Resorts magazine through American Express Travel, which shows me the perks I receive by booking or using points through them.  With my Chase United Mileage Plus card, I receive the Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection magazine... same thought process. 

View from our private pool at Canaves Oia Suites

3. After I nail down hotels that keep popping up on all lists, I check out dates and prices, images, and amenities.  I have chosen the Canaves Oia Suites. Keep in mind: Canaves Oia also has a hotel option which will cut the price in half!  

Katikies Hotel

These were the hotels I narrowed down for final selection.

• Mystique Hotel (18 Rooms)
• Katikies Hotel (25 Rooms)
• Grace Santorini (22 Rooms)
• Andronis Luxury Suites (16 Rooms)
• Chromata (25 rooms)
• Canaves Oia Suites

Grace Santorini

Canaves Oia Suites: Our hotel of choice! Carved into a cliffside overlooking the Aegean Sea. This is an all-suite hotel: our room will have a private veranda with a plunge pool jacuzzi! Paradise. They also offer wine tastings! Originally, we were going to spend 4 nights in the hotel and 3 in the suites--but with the trip to Mykonos we will spend our nights in the suites. *Also see: Canaves Oia Hotel

Canaves Oia Suites

*What to do & Where?

• Fira: nightlife
• Oia: best sunsets
• Kamari: shopping
• Kamari, Perissa, Perivolos: best beaches
• Nea Kameni: small, uninhabited volcanic island

Map of Santorini

What to do in Santorini?

• Beaches! Monolithos & Kamari beaches are the most popular
• Satellite Islands of Thirasia, reached by ferry from Fira
• Cable Car

Cable Car

The cable car is located 10km from our hotel, so this might be a great scenic option!

Monolithos Beach

• Catamaran Sailing Excursion: Sail across the Aegean Sea--umm sign me up! These trips can be private or semi-private tours, and there are a few different size Catamarans. This is the excursion I'm looking forward to the most and its offered through our hotel. 

Canaves Oia Catamaran Sailing Excursion

Where to eat?

There are several spots to check out in Oia and Fira, but my one tip is Dimitris Ammoudi Tavern. What's better than catch of the day? Enjoying it at a private table on the water! Fresh Fish prepared daily in the northern village above Oia.  Come here for sunset and enjoy this romantic spot by the sea.

Dimitris Ammoudi Tavern

When to go?

June-September:  High Season (expensive season) But warmest temperatures and little to no wind or rain.  

October& November, April & May: Shoulder Season, good time for sight seeing, a little less predictable weather. 

November-April: Best Deals. This is the off season. 

*Travel Tip:  Santorini is a honeymoon destination and most of the nice hotels book up a year in advance, keep this in mind.  Although, I'm sure you can get a last minute spot. This is a dream trip of mine, so I needed to make sure I was staying exactly where I wanted. 

Canaves Oia Suites, Santorini

Pack your camera, swimsuits, shades and enjoy this piece of paradise! There will be few places that compare with the beauty of the Aegean Sea.  Enjoy. 

Until Next Time, Safe Travels.