All posts filed under: Travel

Decor: Under The Tuscan Sun Villa is For Rent

I don’t know of any woman who was not taken away by the film Under the Tuscan Sun – when it first came out in 2003. Imaging a life as colorful as Frances Mayes’ in the film.  It’s funny, I still watch the movie now and again, feeling warm and fuzzy about the story as it unfolds onscreen. So – guess what made it to the top of my travel bucket list?

Boutique Hotel Pick – The Landsby – Solvang, California

I never say no to a weekend getaway to Solvang, Calfornia – where I get a dose of all things Danish. Naturally, indulging in amazing Danish pancakes, and other pastries in a number of cafes and eateries adorning the simple town. It is my near-fix in between my trips to Europe. Over July 4th weekend this year, while in Solvang, waiting at curbside to be seated for breakfast here, I noticed The Landsby and after breakfast walked across the street to take a closer look – and talk to the staff at reception about the property and all things relevant for me to make a reservation for a weekend getaway in October, when the weather is most ideal in California, in  particular , the Santa. Inez wine country. And what’s wonderful for me,  is that the hotel is pet-friendly.

Travel: Simple Pleasures – London Bakeries

I do my best to stay away from all things dessert because I do not have an off-switch. But while travelling, I tend to cheat a whole lot.  Recently, I was in England, Cornwall and otherwise, and stopped in a local bakery here and there, so while planning a second trip to England during the holidays, later on this year, I decided to find out where all the good bakeries were in London proper – for, well, you know – winter time comfort food 😉 Dominique Ansel, Kova Patisserie, Bread Ahead, Lily Vanilli, Nordic Bakery, Violet, more… Do you have a favorite bakery recommend?

Boutique Hotel Pick – Carneros Resort and Spa – Napa, Califronia

Although Napa is only an hour away from San Francisco, I cannot help but plan a weekend or weekday getaway to this newly renovated spot – Carneros Resort and Spa – in the heart of Napa Valley with my best companion at my side – fourteen year old Yorkie. {photo credit}

Boutique Hotel Pick – Rowena’s Inn – Sandpiper Resort – British Colombia

I admit I do watch Hallmark films here and there when I need a break from  shows that are based on too much reality or otherwise.  Hallmark films put my mind at ease and my life in neutral. Just last night while  watching Wedding March 3 – I fell in-love with the location, particularly the Inn they used as the backdrop for the story and weddings and the simplest of dramas. It was the Rowena’s Inn, a Sandpiper resort – Harrison Mills, British Colombia and I had to research and add to my list of destinations.  Here’s the story behind the film – for those movie buffs such as myself and the link to the actual hotel booking: Great setting for a wedding venue as well.    

Film Locations Travel Destination

I took a film history class while in college, mostly to fulfill the electives portion of my degree program.  The course outline was to introduce the students to film making from the very beginning – from the Lumiere brothers short films made in Paris in 1895 onward.  On the first day of class, the professor gave us a one question quiz  – why do we go see films? My answer, along with everyone else in the classroom was – mostly to escape. Which apparently was not the correct answer, and so she went on to explain the many reasons  otherwise. The funny thing is no one in the classroom accepted her list and even to this day, I firmly believe that most folks go see a film to escape. So, if you think like me – then here’s a list of travel destinations to check out – where some of the best of films were made: {Salzburg photo source} {photo source for Cortona, Italy} {photo source for Nuuk, Greenland}   {Scotland photo source} {featured photo …