cruise, Italy, Memory Keeping

Sicily in One Day: Our Private Etna & Taormina Shore Excursion

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Greek Theatre

A cruise-port day from Catania that took us from an active volcano to one of Sicily’s most beautiful hill towns.

There are some cruise days where you step off the ship, wander around the port, grab lunch and head back.

And then there are the days when you look at the itinerary and think:

We’re in Sicily. We have one day. Let’s make it count.

That was our day in Catania.

Rather than staying in the city or booking a large group excursion, we arranged a private tour with a driver and guide that combined two experiences I really wanted to see: Mount Etna and Taormina.

And it turned out to be one of those days that reminded me exactly why I love private touring.

Our Sicily Cruise Day

We were sailing the Mediterranean aboard Norwegian Cruise Line, and Catania was one of our ports of call.

With only one day in Sicily, we knew we couldn’t see everything.

Sicily is a BIG island, and trying to cram half of it into a cruise-port day isn’t really my idea of fun.

So we narrowed it down to two very different experiences:

Mount Etna + Taormina.

One was all about nature, geology and that slightly surreal feeling of standing on a volcano.

The other was quintessentially Sicilian — beautiful streets, history, incredible views and one of the island’s most famous ancient sites.

It felt like a pretty good combination.

First Stop: Mount Etna

There is something a little surreal about driving toward a volcano.

Especially when that volcano is Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in the world and the highest volcano in Europe. Etna has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its globally significant geological features. (Visit Sicily)

As we climbed higher, the scenery changed.

The landscape became more rugged, darker and more volcanic. Suddenly, this wasn’t the sunny Mediterranean scenery I had pictured when I thought about Sicily.

It was something completely different.

And that was part of what made it so fascinating.

Standing on Etna

Our guide, Chiara, made the experience even better because we weren’t simply being dropped off at a viewpoint and told to take pictures.

We learned about the volcano, the landscape and the way Etna has shaped the area around it.

And then there was that moment when you realize:

I’m actually standing on Mount Etna. And smoke is billowing out of it! (It erupted a few days later!)

You can read about volcanoes all day, but there’s something completely different about seeing the black volcanic rock and landscape for yourself.

The official Sicily tourism site describes the higher areas around Etna as a landscape of craters and lava rock — and I completely understood the comparison to another planet once we were there. (Visit Sicily)

It didn’t feel like the Italy I had imagined.

It felt like Sicily.

Then We Headed to Taormina

From Etna, we continued on to Taormina, and this was where the day took a completely different turn.

Isola Bella

If Etna felt dramatic and otherworldly, Taormina felt like the Sicily you see in your imagination.

Beautiful.

Historic.

A little glamorous.

And incredibly photogenic.

Taormina sits high above the Ionian coast, with spectacular views toward the sea and Mount Etna. The official Sicily tourism site describes it as a terrace overlooking the sea, and that really is the feeling you get when you’re there. (Visit Sicily)

The Greek Theatre

Our visit included Taormina’s famous Greek Theatre, and this was definitely one of those places where the pictures don’t quite do it justice.

The theatre was originally built by the Greeks in the 3rd century BC and was later modified during the Roman period. Its location is part of the magic — the ancient stone structure opens up to views of the surrounding landscape, including Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. (Visit Sicily)

Standing there, looking through the ancient columns toward Etna and the sea, I remember thinking:

Okay. THIS is why we came to Sicily. I could have stood there for hours!

It’s history, architecture and scenery all happening in the same place.

And because Taormina is built into the hillside, the walk itself is part of the experience.

Wandering Taormina

One of my favorite things about Taormina was simply wandering.

We walked through the streets, took in the views, browsed the shops and soaked up the atmosphere.

The main pedestrian street, Corso Umberto, runs through the heart of town and is filled with boutiques, restaurants, cafés and shops.

This is one of those places where I think it’s important not to over-plan every minute.

Leave yourself some time to wander.

Look up.

Take the picture.

Stop for something to eat.

And let yourself get a little distracted.

That’s part of the fun.

Our guide, Chiara, had a little art show going on that we popped into. Her daughter was overseeing it while she was working with us. She had beautiful artwork.

And Yes… We Ate Our Way Through Sicily a Little

Because obviously we did.

One of the little highlights of the day was getting to try arancini, those famous Sicilian stuffed rice balls.

After spending the morning climbing around a volcano, they tasted especially good.

😂

This is another reason I love having a private guide.

You can ask questions.

You can get recommendations. Chiara told us where to get the best arancini.

You can stop when something catches your eye.

The day doesn’t have to feel like you’re simply checking boxes on an itinerary.

Why We Chose a Private Tour

This is probably the biggest takeaway I would have for anyone planning a cruise day like this.

Etna and Taormina are both places I wanted to experience with some flexibility.

A private tour gave us:

  • Our own driver and guide
  • Transportation between the different stops
  • A guide who could explain what we were seeing
  • Flexibility throughout the day
  • No large tour group to keep up with
  • Someone else worrying about the roads, parking and logistics
  • The comfort of knowing we had transportation waiting for us

And perhaps most importantly:

We weren’t spending our entire day figuring out how to get from one place to the next.

When you’re visiting Sicily as part of a cruise, that’s a big deal.

You have a ship to get back to.

I’ve visited Taormina before, 3 years ago and we did a ship excursion that time. Big bus, 30 people, no flexibility. Barely had time to have a snack. I still loved Taormina, but this was much calmer.

Can You Do Etna and Taormina in One Day?

Yes — with the right itinerary and transportation, it can make sense to combine the two.

But I wouldn’t approach it as:

“Let’s see everything in Sicily!”

You can’t.

Instead, think about it as choosing two experiences that complement each other.

For us, that was:

Etna = nature + adventure + something completely different

Taormina = history + beauty + food + wandering

Together, they gave us a really wonderful introduction to eastern Sicily.

The official regional tourism itinerary actually pairs Etna and Taormina as highlights of eastern Sicily, which makes sense once you’ve experienced how naturally the two work together.

What I Would Keep in Mind When Planning This Cruise Day

1. Don’t underestimate the distances.

Sicily is much larger than many first-time visitors realize.

If you’re visiting on a cruise, look carefully at your port time and build in plenty of cushion for your return to the ship.

2. Wear comfortable shoes.

Taormina is beautiful, but this isn’t the place for uncomfortable shoes just because they look cute in your vacation photos.

There are hills, stone streets and plenty of walking.

3. Bring layers.

The temperatures can feel very different between the coast and higher elevations around Etna.

4. Don’t try to do too much.

Etna and Taormina already made for a full day.

I would rather really experience two places than spend the entire day looking at my watch because I have six more stops to squeeze in.

5. Consider private transportation.

Especially for a cruise-port day, having someone else handle the driving and logistics can make the entire experience feel much more relaxed.

Would We Do It Again?

Absolutely.

Not because we “checked Sicily off our list.”

Actually, quite the opposite.

Our day at Etna and Taormina left me feeling like we had only scratched the surface.

That’s one of my favorite things about travel.

You visit somewhere for one day and come home with a whole new list of places you want to see.

Sicily definitely did that to me.

If I Were Planning This for a Client…

This is exactly the type of cruise day where I would start by asking:

What do you actually want to experience?

Do you want food?

Wine?

Ancient history?

A beach?

A volcano?

Beautiful scenery?

Shopping?

A slower day?

You don’t need to see all of Sicily in one cruise stop.

You need to choose the experience that will make you say:

“I’m so glad we did that.”

For us, that was Etna and Taormina.

And honestly?

I’d make that choice again in a heartbeat. 🇮🇹🌋

Planning Your Own Mediterranean Cruise?

If you’re looking at a Mediterranean cruise and feeling a little overwhelmed by all those ports, that’s exactly where I come in.

I don’t just help you book the cruise.

I help you figure out what to do once you get there — including private tours, shore excursions, transportation and the little details that can turn a port day into one of your favorite memories.

I’m Barb, your travel advisor at Magical Travels with Barb — the person who plans the trip you didn’t know you needed.

[Let’s start planning your trip →]

cruise, Memory Keeping

What to Do in Marseille on a Mediterranean Cruise: A First-Time Cruiser’s Guide

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A first-time cruiser’s guide to making the most of your Marseille port day

Marseille is one of those Mediterranean ports that can be a little intimidating at first.

It’s big. It’s busy. Your cruise ship may dock farther from the historic center than you expect. And with only a few hours in port, you don’t want to spend your entire day figuring out how to get around.

But once you know what you’re doing, Marseille can be a fantastic cruise stop—especially if you love beautiful views, colorful neighborhoods, historic sites, French food and that unmistakable Mediterranean atmosphere.

Here’s how I would spend a day in Marseille on a Mediterranean cruise.

First: Know Where Your Ship Docks

This is the part I wish every first-time cruiser knew.

If your ship docks at J4, you’re in a fantastic location. The terminal is right near the MuCEM, Fort Saint-Jean, Cathédrale de la Major and Le Panier, and you can reach the city center on foot. 

If your ship docks at the Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal/Môle Léon Gourret, you’re farther out in the commercial port. You cannot simply walk from the ship into the historic center.

The port operates a free shuttle on cruise-call days between the cruise terminal area and La Joliette, near the Terrasses du Port. From there, you can continue toward the historic center. 

My advice: Before you plan your day, check your ship’s exact berth.

If you are at the larger, newer terminal, MPCT then consider a taxi right outside the ship over the free shuttle. It’s a 15-20 minute walk to the free shuttle and it may be a wait.

That one detail can completely change your strategy.

1. Start at the Vieux-Port

f you only have one day in Marseille, don’t skip the Vieux-Port.

This is the heart of the city, surrounded by restaurants, cafés, boats and historic buildings, with Notre-Dame de la Garde watching over the harbor from the hill above. The port dates back more than 2,600 years. 

Take a stroll along the waterfront, grab a coffee and simply soak it in.

And if you’re there in the morning, you may catch the famous fish market along the harbor. 

This is one of those places where you don’t necessarily need an attraction ticket. Just being there is part of the experience.

2. Wander Through Le Panier

From the Vieux-Port, make your way into Le Panier, Marseille’s oldest neighborhood.

This is where I’d slow down.

You’ll find:

  • Colorful buildings
  • Narrow winding streets
  • Street art
  • Little shops and galleries
  • Cafés and restaurants
  • Historic buildings
  • Plenty of photo opportunities

One of the highlights is La Vieille Charité, a beautiful former 17th-century charitable complex that is now a cultural and museum center. 

And honestly?

Don’t over-plan this part.

Get a little lost.

That’s half the fun.

3. See the MuCEM & Fort Saint-Jean

Even if you’re not a museum person, I’d put MuCEM on your Marseille list.

The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations is famous not only for its exhibits but also for its striking modern architecture overlooking the Mediterranean.

And right next door is Fort Saint-Jean, which offers beautiful views over the harbor and sea. The fort and its gardens can be explored without necessarily spending your port day inside a museum. 

This is also a great spot for photos.

Cruise tip: If you’re short on time, you don’t have to spend hours inside the museum. The architecture, waterfront and fort are worth seeing on their own.

4. Visit Notre-Dame de la Garde

If you want the view, this is the place.

Notre-Dame de la Garde—affectionately known as the Bonne Mère, or “Good Mother”—sits high above Marseille and offers spectacular views over the city and Mediterranean. 

And this is where I would not recommend walking up unless you really want the exercise.

The tourist office suggests taking Bus 60 from the Old Port, while the Petit Train is another option for sightseeing along the way. 

For a cruise port day, saving your legs—and your time—isn’t a bad idea.

5. Eat Something Marseille

And obviously, you can’t visit Marseille without trying some local food.

Try bouillabaisse

Marseille’s famous fish stew is probably the city’s most iconic dish.

But here’s my cruise-port-day warning: traditional bouillabaisse can be a lengthy meal, so I wouldn’t necessarily choose it if your ship is leaving in the afternoon and you’re trying to squeeze in multiple sights.

Instead, look for something quick and local—or save the full bouillabaisse experience for a longer stay.

Don’t forget the navettes

These little boat-shaped biscuits are a traditional Marseille treat and make a great little souvenir.

And yes, you can absolutely justify bringing some back to the ship. 😉

6. Want Something Different? Visit the Calanques

If you’ve already been to Marseille or aren’t particularly interested in museums and historic neighborhoods, consider exploring the Calanques.

These dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise water and hidden coves are one of the area’s most beautiful natural attractions.

This is where I would consider a ship excursion or a carefully planned private tour, particularly on a cruise.

Why?

Because cruise days come with one major rule:

Don’t miss the ship.

A reputable excursion that handles your transportation and gets you back to the ship on time can be worth the extra money.

My Perfect Marseille Cruise-Day Itinerary

If this were my port day, I’d keep it relatively simple.

Option 1: First time in Marseille

Morning
→ Get to the city center
→ Vieux-Port
→ Le Panier
→ Cathédrale de la Major
→ MuCEM/Fort Saint-Jean

Lunch
→ Enjoy a leisurely French/Mediterranean lunch

Afternoon
→ Notre-Dame de la Garde
→ Back to the port with plenty of time to spare

This gives you a really good introduction to Marseille without trying to see absolutely everything.

The official Marseille tourism office actually recommends a similar combination of the Vieux-Port, Le Panier, MuCEM and Notre-Dame de la Garde for a one-day visit. 

Having just been in Marseille on a cruise port stop, this is what we actually did. Keeping in mind it was August and extremely hot.

→ Taxi to the Vieux-Port
→ Wandered streets, got coffee
→ Petit Train Touristique up to
→ Notre Dame de la Garde
→ Petit Train back down
→ Wandered streets
→ Found River Sud Vins Wine Shop did Tasting
→ Lunch
→ Taxi back to ship

We had more time and could have gone to Le Panier, which was my plan, but the heat was just too much. It was our last day after a long hot week and we were happy with what we had done. FLEXIBILITY is key. I’m glad we were free to do what we wanted and not on a tour.

Should You DIY Marseille or Book an Excursion?

This is one of those ports where either can work.

DIY is a good choice if:

✔️ You enjoy exploring independently
✔️ You want to wander Le Panier
✔️ You aren’t afraid of public transportation
✔️ You have a longer port day
✔️ You want flexibility

Book a tour if:

✔️ It’s your first visit
✔️ You want to see several sights
✔️ You’d rather not deal with transportation
✔️ You’re interested in the Calanques
✔️ You want a guide explaining what you’re seeing
✔️ You’re traveling with someone who doesn’t want to do a lot of walking

And remember: if you’re docking at the larger cruise terminal, factor your transportation into your port-day plan from the beginning. 

What I Would NOT Do

I wouldn’t try to visit Marseille + Aix-en-Provence + Cassis + the Calanques + everything else in one cruise day.

I’ve seen too many cruise itineraries become a checklist instead of an experience.

Pick one area and enjoy it.

Marseille is a city that rewards wandering.

Give yourself time to stop for a coffee.

Take the picture.

Pop into the little shop.

Sit by the harbor.

Eat something delicious.

That’s the Marseille experience.

My Biggest Marseille Cruise Tip

Don’t let the logistics scare you away from exploring independently.

Marseille may look complicated when you first start researching it, but the main sights around the historic center are surprisingly easy to combine.

The Vieux-Port, Le Panier, MuCEM, Fort Saint-Jean and Cathédrale de la Major are all clustered around the same general area, while Notre-Dame de la Garde is the one major stop I’d plan transportation for. 

And if you’re working with me to plan your Mediterranean cruise, this is exactly the kind of thing I help you figure out before you ever step off the ship.

Because your port day shouldn’t feel like:

“Where do we go? How do we get there? Are we going to make it back?”

It should feel like:

“We have a plan. Let’s go enjoy Marseille.” ❤️🇫🇷

cruise, Memory Keeping

How to Plan a Mediterranean Cruise: What I Wish Every First-Time Cruiser Knew

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A Mediterranean cruise sounds almost too good to be true.

Wake up in a different country. Have breakfast overlooking the sea. Spend the day exploring ancient ruins, wandering cobblestone streets, eating incredible food, and then return to your ship for dinner.

And the next morning?

You do it all over again somewhere completely different.

But if you’ve never taken a Mediterranean cruise before, planning one can feel overwhelming.

Which itinerary should you choose?
How many days do you need?
Should you arrive early?
Do you need an excursion in every port?
How do you get from the cruise port into the city?
And perhaps the biggest question…

How do you see everything without coming home exhausted?

After spending time in Rome before our Mediterranean cruise and sailing through several incredible ports, I’ve learned that there are a few things I wish every first-time Mediterranean cruiser knew before booking.

1. Don’t choose the cruise based only on the ship

This is probably the biggest difference between a Caribbean cruise and a Mediterranean cruise.

In the Caribbean, the ship and the ports are both part of the vacation.

In the Mediterranean, the itinerary matters enormously.

You may fall in love with a beautiful ship, but if the itinerary has ports that don’t interest you—or doesn’t give you enough time in the places you really want to see—you may regret the decision.

When you’re comparing Mediterranean cruises, look beyond the ship.

Ask:

  • Which cities does it visit?
  • How long is the ship in each port?
  • Are there multiple sea days?
  • Does it visit places you’ve always wanted to see?
  • How far is the actual cruise port from the city?
  • Is the itinerary rushed or does it give you enough time to explore?

A cruise that visits Rome, Florence, Barcelona, and the French Riviera may sound like it checks every box.

But remember: the cruise port isn’t always the city.

And that brings me to the next thing I wish every first time cruiser knew.

2. A “port day” doesn’t necessarily mean a day in the city

This one catches a lot of first-time cruisers off guard.

Your itinerary might say Livorno, but you’re probably dreaming about Florence.

Your itinerary might say Civitavecchia, but you’re really going to Rome.

Those aren’t the same thing.

Sometimes you’ll need a train, private transfer, taxi, or organized excursion to actually reach the place you want to see.

That means you need to factor transportation time into your plans.

A port day isn’t necessarily:

8:00 AM – Arrive in Florence
6:00 PM – Leave Florence

It could actually be:

8:00 AM – Ship arrives in Livorno
9:00 AM – Get off ship
10:30 AM – Arrive in Florence
4:00 PM – Leave Florence
5:30 PM – Return to ship

That makes a huge difference when you’re deciding what you can realistically see.

3. Don’t try to see EVERYTHING

This is the hardest one for me because I’m the person who wants to see everything.

It’s the Mediterranean!

How can you possibly choose between the Colosseum, Vatican, Amalfi Coast, Florence, Pisa, Monaco, Marseille, Barcelona and all the incredible little towns in between?

You can’t.

And trying to do it all can turn your dream vacation into a marathon.

Instead, decide what your must-do experiences are.

Maybe Rome is the place where you want a full day of sightseeing.

Maybe in France you just want to wander, eat lunch and enjoy the scenery.

Maybe you’re willing to spend a little more for a private guide in one port because there’s something you’ve always dreamed of seeing.

That’s okay.

You don’t have to maximize every single port.

Sometimes the best travel memories come from slowing down enough to actually enjoy where you are.

4. Consider arriving before your cruise

If your cruise departs from Rome, Barcelona, Athens, Venice, or another major European city, I strongly recommend considering arriving at least one day early.

And honestly?

For some itineraries, I’d consider two days.

Flights get delayed.

Bags get lost.

Transportation doesn’t always go according to plan.

And the last thing you want is to be sitting on a plane watching the clock while your cruise ship is waiting for you to arrive.

Arriving early also gives you the chance to experience the departure city.

For us, spending time in Rome before the cruise meant we weren’t trying to cram the Vatican, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Colosseum, the Forum and the Trevi Fountain into one frantic cruise day.

We could actually enjoy Rome.

And that extra time can make a huge difference.

5. Don’t book an excursion in every port

Yes, excursions are convenient.

But you don’t necessarily need one every single day.

Some ports are easy to explore independently.

Others are much more complicated.

And some destinations are worth paying for a guide because of the history and logistics involved.

My general rule?

Know what kind of port you’re dealing with before deciding how to explore it.

For major bucket-list destinations, I often recommend looking at private tours or small-group excursions.

For easier ports, you may be perfectly happy exploring on your own.

And sometimes the best plan is simply getting off the ship and seeing where the day takes you.

6. Private transportation can be worth every penny

This is one of those things that can feel expensive when you’re booking the trip.

Then the day comes.

You’re standing in a crowded port, trying to figure out transportation, watching the clock and wondering if you’re going to make it back to the ship.

Suddenly, that private driver doesn’t seem quite so expensive.

For certain ports—especially ones where the cruise port is far from the destination you actually want to visit—a private transfer can make the day dramatically easier.

You aren’t just paying for a car.

You’re paying for:

Time. Convenience. Peace of mind.

And on a cruise, those things are valuable.

Private cars waiting for cruisers in Livorno

7. Build your days around what matters most to YOU

One mistake first-time cruisers make is trying to follow someone else’s perfect Mediterranean itinerary.

Don’t.

Maybe you love history.

Maybe you’re all about food and wine.

Maybe you want beautiful scenery and charming villages.

Maybe you’re traveling with your mom and want a slower pace.

Maybe you’re traveling with friends and want to spend the day laughing over a long lunch.

There is no single “right” way to experience the Mediterranean.

The best itinerary is the one that matches your travel style.

8. Give yourself more time than you think you need

European travel involves walking.

A LOT of walking.

Cobblestones.

Stairs.

Museums.

Churches.

Train stations.

Ports.

And somehow the gelato shop is always another half-mile away.

😂

Build some breathing room into your plans.

You don’t have to schedule every minute.

And if you’re traveling with multiple generations, definitely think about how much walking and standing your itinerary requires.

A private driver or guided tour isn’t just a luxury—it can sometimes make the difference between everyone having a wonderful day and everyone being completely exhausted.

9. Think about your cabin carefully

You’re going to hear a lot of opinions about cabins.

Inside vs. balcony.

Midship vs. aft.

Lower deck vs. higher deck.

And yes, those choices matter.

But there’s another question you should ask yourself:

How much time will you actually spend in your cabin?

If you’re planning to be off the ship exploring every day, you may prioritize location and budget differently than someone who plans to spend afternoons relaxing on their balcony.

And if you’re someone who has discovered that you really enjoy having extra space and a quieter, more elevated cruise experience…

Well, that’s a whole different conversation. You can find that conversation here.

😉

10. Don’t forget that you’re still on a cruise

This sounds obvious, but it’s easy to forget.

You’re not checking into a hotel in every city.

You’re unpacking once and waking up somewhere new every morning.

That’s one of the best things about cruising.

You don’t have to drag your suitcase through Rome, Florence, France and Spain.

Your hotel comes with you.

But it also means you need to keep an eye on the clock.

The ship will leave without you.

If you’re exploring independently, know exactly when you need to be back onboard.

And remember that “all aboard” isn’t the same thing as “the ship leaves.”

Give yourself a cushion.

Your future self will thank you.

11. Plan for the unexpected

Not every port day will go exactly as planned.

Weather can change.

Tours can run late.

Transportation can be delayed.

A museum can unexpectedly close.

And sometimes you’ll simply wake up and realize you are tired and don’t want to follow the plan you made six months ago.

That’s okay.

Leave a little flexibility in your trip.

The Mediterranean isn’t going anywhere.

You don’t have to experience every single thing in one trip.

French Riviera from the Jardin Exotic n Eze Village

12. And finally… don’t try to do this alone

This is where a travel advisor can make a huge difference.

Planning a Mediterranean cruise isn’t just about finding a cruise.

It’s about matching the right itinerary, ship, cabin, excursions, transfers, pre-cruise hotel and flights to the people actually taking the trip.

And there are a lot of moving pieces.

That’s exactly the kind of trip I love helping people plan.

Because you shouldn’t have to spend hours researching every port, comparing every itinerary and trying to figure out whether a cruise excursion will actually get you where you want to go.

You should be able to look at your vacation and think:

“I can’t wait.”

Not:

“I hope I planned this right.”

If a Mediterranean cruise is on your travel wish list…

Let’s talk about it.

Whether you’re dreaming about Italy, Greece, Spain, France—or a little bit of all of them—I’d love to help you figure out what itinerary makes the most sense for you.

And if you’ve never cruised before, don’t worry.

You don’t have to know what you’re doing before you reach out. That’s what I’m here for.

Your job is to dream about where you want to go.

I’ll help you figure out how to get there.

cruise, Italy, Memory Keeping

How We Spent Our 2 Days in Rome — And Why I Planned It This Way

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We had 48 hours in Rome.

That sounds like plenty of time… until you start looking at everything you want to see.

The Vatican. St. Peter’s Basilica. The Colosseum. The Roman Forum. The Trevi Fountain. And then, because I wanted to experience something a little different, an underground tour that took us beneath the streets of Rome into a hidden world of ancient water systems and history.

So the challenge wasn’t simply:

“What can we see in two days?”

It was:

“How can we see the most important things without spending our entire 48 hours rushing from one crowded attraction to another?”

That is where the planning really mattered.

I Didn’t Plan Rome as a Checklist

When I plan travel for my clients, one of the first things I look at isn’t how many attractions can we fit in?

It’s how do these experiences fit together geographically, logistically and emotionally?

Rome is one of those cities where you can technically see a lot in a short amount of time—but if you aren’t careful, you’ll spend half your day waiting in lines, navigating crowds and trying to figure out where you’re supposed to be next.

With only two days, I wanted our major sightseeing experiences to feel intentional.

So I divided our time into experiences where having a private guide would add real value and experiences where a smaller specialty tour made more sense.

That distinction made a huge difference.

Day One: Vatican City & St. Peter’s Basilica

We started with the Vatican.

This was one of the experiences where I knew I wanted a private guide.

Why?

Because the Vatican isn’t just a place where you walk through rooms and look at beautiful things.

There is so much history, symbolism and context that you can easily miss if you’re simply following the crowd and reading signs along the way.

Having our own guide meant we could ask questions, slow down when something caught our attention and actually understand what we were looking at.

And then there was St. Peter’s Basilica.

The scale of it is difficult to appreciate until you’re standing inside.

This was another reason I didn’t want to simply rush through the Vatican as part of a giant group tour.

When you have limited time, I don’t necessarily think you need to do everything privately.

I think you need to be strategic about where private guiding adds the most value.

For us, the Vatican was one of those places.

We also came off an overnight flight early that morning. We were tired, jet-lagged, but could not waste a day. Having a private tour was much easier on our jet-lagged minds on the first day.

Day Two: Ancient Rome

Day two was all about Ancient Rome.

We visited the Colosseum and Roman Forum, two places that were absolute must-sees for me.

Again, this is where having a guide can completely change the experience.

You can certainly walk through the Colosseum and Forum on your own.

But when someone can explain what you’re actually looking at, how the spaces were used and what life was like here, the ruins become more than just beautiful photographs.

And that’s something I think is worth paying for when your time is limited.

We weren’t trying to spend three days wandering around Rome hoping we’d stumble upon the important things.

We had 48 hours.

I wanted to understand what we were seeing.

And Of Course…Trevi

No trip to Rome feels complete without seeing the Trevi Fountain.

This was one of those stops that didn’t require a private guide.

We didn’t need someone to explain how to look at a fountain.

We just needed time to stand there and take it in.

And yes, we threw the coins.

Because sometimes the touristy things are touristy for a reason.

Then We Went Underground

For our next experience, I deliberately chose something completely different.

We went beneath the streets of Rome and discovered a completely different side of the city—one that most visitors don’t see simply by walking from one famous landmark to another.

This is one of my favorite things about planning travel.

Sometimes the experiences you remember most aren’t the ones that were at the top of every “10 Things to Do in Rome” list.

Instead of another large attraction with crowds of people, we did a smaller underground tour.

They’re the experiences that make you stop and think:

“Wait…this is underneath Rome?”

And because this was a smaller tour, it felt completely different from the Vatican experience.

That was intentional.

I didn’t want two days of large crowds and major attractions.

I wanted contrast.

So Why Did I Choose Private Guides?

This is probably the biggest takeaway from our two days in Rome.

I didn’t choose private guides because I think every travel experience needs to be private.

I chose them because we had limited time and there were certain places where the added expertise was worth the investment.

For us:

Private guide → Vatican & St. Peter’s

I wanted history, context, flexibility and the ability to ask questions.

Private guide → Colosseum & Roman Forum

I wanted the ancient ruins to actually come alive rather than simply walking through them.

Smaller specialty tour → Underground Rome

I wanted a more intimate experience that was completely different from the major attractions.

Self-guided sightseeing → Trevi Fountain

Because sometimes you don’t need a guide. You just need to be there.

The Real Luxury Wasn’t Seeing Everything

It was not wasting our time.

That’s the part of travel planning that isn’t always obvious when you’re looking at an itinerary online.

You can find a list of every attraction in Rome in about 30 seconds.

But figuring out:

  • What needs advance planning
  • Where a private guide is worth the money
  • Which experiences work better in a small group
  • How to group attractions geographically
  • How much time to realistically allow
  • When to build in breathing room
  • And what you can skip without feeling like you “missed Rome”

…that’s where a travel advisor can make a difference.

We had only 48 hours.

We didn’t see everything.

And that was okay.

We saw the places that mattered most to us, experienced them in a way that felt meaningful, and still had moments where we could simply wander, look around and enjoy being in Rome.

Because a great itinerary isn’t the one where you check the most boxes.

It’s the one where you come home feeling like you actually experienced the place.

And if you’re planning a trip to Rome and trying to figure out how to make limited time work, that’s exactly the kind of planning I love helping with.

You tell me what you want to experience. I’ll help you figure out how to make it all fit.

cruise, Italy, Memory Keeping, Travel Planning

Is the Norwegian Cruise Line Haven Worth It? My Honest Experience

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Before our Mediterranean cruise, I had a question I hear from clients all the time:

Is The Haven really worth the extra money?

Welcome Hugo Spritz in the Haven Lounge

After spending seven nights aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Epic in The Haven, I finally have a firsthand answer.

And it’s not simply yes or no.

I think The Haven is absolutely worth considering for the right traveler—but I wouldn’t recommend it to everyone.

Here’s why.

First, What Exactly Is The Haven?

The Haven is Norwegian Cruise Line’s premium suite experience.

Think of it as having a more private, elevated experience within a larger cruise ship.

You still have access to everything happening throughout the ship—the restaurants, entertainment, pools, bars, activities and ports—but you also have your own quieter spaces and additional services to make the cruise feel a little more special.

And for a Mediterranean cruise, that distinction mattered to me.

We weren’t spending all day sitting around the ship.

We were getting up early, exploring cities, meeting private guides, climbing Mount Etna, walking through Florence and generally trying to squeeze every possible experience out of our port days.

Coming back to a quieter, more comfortable space at the end of those days was a luxury I appreciated.

The Biggest Benefit Wasn’t the Suite

Don’t get me wrong.

The suite was beautiful, comfortable and spacious.

But after the cruise, when I think about what made The Haven worthwhile for us, the room isn’t actually at the top of my list.

It was the overall experience.

From the moment we arrived at the ship, we felt like we were starting our vacation rather than beginning a logistical exercise.

We had priority embarkation, and a butler actually led us onboard.

That sounds like a small thing.

It wasn’t.

After traveling to Rome, spending 2 days touring in the heat wave and getting ourselves to the port, being able to walk in, get oriented and start enjoying the ship without dealing with a long embarkation process in a tent with no a/c was fantastic.

And that theme continued throughout the cruise.

Priority Embarkation

If you’ve ever stood in a cruise terminal watching the clock while waiting to get onboard, you understand the appeal here.

We were able to move through the embarkation process quickly and get started with our vacation.

Is that alone worth paying for The Haven?

Probably not. But it was pretty sweet! Video below.

https://youtube.com/shorts/j3pMu6JXLl0?feature=share: Is the Norwegian Cruise Line Haven Worth It? My Honest Experience

But it’s one of several benefits that, when added together, made the experience worthwhile for us.

And that’s an important distinction.

I don’t look at any one Haven perk and say, “That’s worth thousands of dollars!”

I look at the entire experience and ask:

Does the combination of these things make the vacation meaningfully better for this traveler?

That’s how I approach travel planning for my clients, too.

The Butler

Having a butler was another part of The Haven experience that I really enjoyed.

I wasn’t exactly sure how I would use a butler. I’m generally a “do it yourself” kinda gal.

Our butler was there to help with the details and make things easier. They are very good at helping people who don’t know what they need, like us, and just as good with those who get on knowing exactly what they need.

Butler service breakfast
Fruit every afternoon
Evening Treats

And after a long day exploring a Mediterranean port, there’s something very nice about coming back to a space where you don’t have to think quite so hard about everything.

This is one of those areas where I think expectations matter.

A butler isn’t going to magically transform your cruise into a completely different vacation.

Janet escorting us down the elevator on our last port day in Marseille

But having someone available to help with certain details can add a level of personalized service that you simply don’t get in a standard cabin.

We met our butler, Janet, our first afternoon and in talking we mentioned an early private tour the next morning. She immediately handed us the room service breakfast and told us to write the exact time we wanted breakfast delivered and leave it on the door tonight. She delivered breakfast at the exact time so we could get off the ship first thing, escorted by a butler, to meet our guide.

Janet asked what snacks we preferred every afternoon when we came back from touring. Sweet or salty or a combination. If you go, ask for the BLTs! Trust me. She kept ice water stocked and ice.

For travelers who really value service and convenience, that’s meaningful.

Concierge Service

The Haven concierge was another benefit I appreciated.

When you’re dealing with multiple ports, private tours, transportation, dining and a packed itinerary, having someone onboard who can help with logistics is valuable.

Again, it’s about convenience.

And I’ve come to realize that convenience is one of the things I’m willing to pay for when I travel.

Not because I’m looking for someone else to do everything for me.

Because I want to spend my vacation experiencing the destination—not standing in line, figuring out logistics or troubleshooting something that could have been handled more easily.

The Haven Spaces

One of my favorite things about staying in The Haven was having access to spaces that felt more peaceful and private.

Mediterranean cruising can be busy.

Really busy.

You’re getting off the ship and exploring major cities, archaeological sites, museums and villages.

Some days we walked for hours.

So having somewhere quiet to retreat to afterward was wonderful. The Sun Deck was never busy.

It gave us the best of both worlds.

Haven Courtyard
Haven Sun Deck
Haven Sun Deck
Reading in Courtyard
Haven Hot Tub

We could head out into the middle of all the action when we wanted to.

And we could come back to a quieter environment when we didn’t.

The Haven room video below.

https://youtu.be/p71kR1_AogU: Is the Norwegian Cruise Line Haven Worth It? My Honest Experience

We booked a 2 Bedroom Courtyard Villa. Did we need that? No. That is probably a splurge I would not do again, but I really wanted that bathtub overlooking the sea! And I used it to soak my aching feet after touring!

But Here’s What I Wouldn’t Say…

I wouldn’t tell every client to book The Haven.

In fact, there are plenty of situations where I would recommend spending that money somewhere else.

If you’re someone who:

  • spends very little time in your cabin
  • doesn’t care about priority services
  • is perfectly happy with a standard balcony cabin
  • would rather spend extra money on private excursions
  • or simply doesn’t value additional space and personalized service

…then The Haven may not be the best use of your vacation budget.

And that’s okay.

You don’t have to book the most expensive option to have an amazing vacation.

Where I’d Spend the Money Instead

This is where personalized travel planning really matters.

Let’s say you have a set budget for your Mediterranean cruise.

You could put all of your extra money toward the cabin.

Or you could choose a less expensive cabin and put that money toward private guides, private transportation, incredible meals or special experiences.

There isn’t one universally correct answer.

For our trip, we actually did both.

We chose The Haven and invested in private experiences in several ports.

That combination worked really well for us. This was a splurge celebration trip after my second cancer fight. We traveled with friends who also were celebrating and all in for a little splurging.

But if I were planning a trip for someone else, I wouldn’t automatically recommend doing exactly what we did.

I’d ask questions.

What matters to you?

How much time will you spend on the ship?

How much do you care about your cabin?

Do you want personalized service?

Are you more interested in food and wine?

Do you want private tours?

Are you celebrating something?

What’s your budget?

And most importantly:

Where will spending the extra money make the biggest difference to YOU?

So… Is The Haven Worth It?

For me?

Yes.

For everyone?

No.

And that’s actually my favorite answer because it means there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to travel.

For our Mediterranean cruise, The Haven made sense because we were looking for a combination of comfort, convenience, service and a place to retreat after extremely busy days.

Would I book it again?

Yes.

Would I recommend it automatically?

Absolutely not.

That’s the difference between simply booking a cruise and actually planning one.

Anyone can help you select a cabin.

The value of a travel advisor is helping you figure out which cabin, which itinerary, which experiences and which splurges make sense for you.

Because sometimes spending more makes your vacation dramatically better.

And sometimes it doesn’t.

My job is to know the difference.

The Bottom Line

If you’re considering The Haven for your next Norwegian cruise, don’t just ask:

“Can I afford it?”

Ask:

“What will it give me that I actually value?”

For us, the answer was more space, personalized service, priority treatment, quieter spaces and a more relaxing place to return to after exploring the Mediterranean.

And after seven nights, I can confidently say:

I’d do it again.

But if you’re planning a cruise and wondering whether The Haven—or any other upgrade—is worth the splurge, that’s exactly the kind of question I love helping clients answer.

Because I don’t want to sell you the most expensive vacation.

I want to help you plan the trip you didn’t know you needed.

Thinking about a Norwegian cruise? Contact me and let’s figure out where your vacation dollars will make the biggest difference.

cruise, Featured, Italy, Memory Keeping

Our Mediterranean Cruise: The Trip I Didn’t Know I Needed

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NCL Epic Mediterranean Cruise

Sometimes you take a trip because you’ve been dreaming about it for years.

And sometimes you take a trip and come home realizing you didn’t even know how much you needed it.

That was this trip.

It started as a trip to take a couple that had never been to Europe. Then another couple joined. It was planned for 3 couples. Then the original couple backed out. Reorganized again. I had to take into account that my husband and I were doing some things we had already done multiple times and create some new experiences for us. Our friends had done some, but not most. It was a long time ago, so they were up for anything.

We recently spent 7 nights cruising the Mediterranean aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Epic, sailing from Rome to Barcelona. We traveled through Italy and France, ate an unreasonable amount of incredible food, drank plenty of wine, walked approximately a million steps, explored ancient cities and medieval villages, climbed a volcano, wandered through Florence, and somehow still managed to come home exhausted and already planning the next trip.

And as a travel advisor, this trip was something else, too.

It was research.

It was firsthand experience.

It was a chance to test the things I recommend to clients and figure out what I would—and wouldn’t—do again.

Most importantly, it reminded me why I love helping people plan travel in the first place.

We Didn’t Just Take a Cruise. We Planned an Experience.

One of the things I love about cruising the Mediterranean is that the ship is really only part of the vacation.

The ports are the adventure. Those are my favorite parts. Seeing all those magnificent places.

And when you have limited time in each port, how you spend those hours matters.

For this trip, we decided that we didn’t want to simply get off the ship, walk around for a couple of hours, grab lunch and get back on board. We also didn’t want to just do the ship-planned excursions this trip. Those can be perfect depending on circumstances, but for this trip and with our Haven priority privileges, it was better to plan independently.

We wanted to experience each destination.

That meant doing something a little different in almost every port.

We booked private guides and drivers for most of our experiences, while also choosing a few activities that allowed us to explore independently.

And that mix turned out to be one of my favorite things about the trip.

Some days were highly structured.

Other days were completely ours.

There were days when someone was waiting for us at the port with a plan that we were fully involved in creating and days when we simply wandered down a street in Florence because something looked interesting.

That balance is exactly what I want for my clients.

Starting in Rome

Our adventure began in Rome, where we had the opportunity to explore some of the city’s most iconic sights for 2 days before embarking the ship.

We had private experiences at the Vatican, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Both booked via Get Your Guide.

Having a knowledgeable guide made such a difference. These are places where it is very easy to look at something beautiful or historic without really understanding what you’re seeing.

A good guide changes that.

Instead of simply seeing the Colosseum, you understand what happened there.

Barbara, our incredible guide

Instead of walking through the Vatican and trying to absorb everything yourself, someone can point out the details you would have missed.

We also did something completely different: we went underground.

Beneath the Trevi Fountain is an ancient underground archaeological site, and exploring it was one of those experiences that reminded me why I love looking beyond the obvious tourist attractions.

Everyone knows the Trevi Fountain.

But how many people know what’s underneath it?

Citta del Aqua

Those are the experiences I love finding. This was something I had never done and now would highly recommend it.

Sailing in the Haven

We also stayed in The Haven aboard Norwegian Epic.

And yes, it was wonderful.

But what I really wanted to discover was whether the experience was actually worth the additional cost.

The answer?

For the right traveler, I absolutely think it can be.

The priority embarkation, the additional space and privacy, the Haven amenities, the concierge and butler service, and simply having a quieter place to retreat to after a busy day in port all contributed to the experience.

But here’s the important part:

I don’t think everyone needs The Haven.

That’s something I tell clients all the time.

Travel isn’t about spending the most money possible.

It’s about figuring out where spending more will actually make your particular vacation better. In the case of a Mediterranean Cruise, it was highly valuable to just be able to get on and off the ship when we were ready in just a few minutes. This was especially helpful with private tours lined up.

That’s one of the things I enjoy most about my job—helping people decide where to splurge and where they can save.

Salerno: Ravello and Amalfi

When we arrived in Salerno, we had a private driver, Roberto, take us into the Amalfi Coast.

Roberto was wonderful! I booked the tour through a company based in Naples called Taxi Mister Cab Driver. Roberto was the luck of the draw and I’m so glad we got him, but from what I have seen, all the drivers are fantastic. We met a few in the course of our day when our plans overlapped and the OG driver, Ciro, sang us back to Amalfi on a boat!

Amalfi Selfie with Roberto

We visited Ravello and Amalfi, enjoying the scenery along the way rather than trying to cram as many stops as possible into the day.

The Amalfi Coast is one of those places where the journey is part of the experience.

The roads wind along the cliffs, the views seem to get more ridiculous around every corner, and eventually you realize that you’re spending half your time saying, “Look at that!”

Having a private driver meant we could enjoy the day without worrying about navigating those roads ourselves. Definitely important for the Amalfi Coast. Driving there is no small feat.

It also gave us flexibility.

And when you’re visiting somewhere like the Amalfi Coast from a cruise ship, flexibility is valuable.

Sicily: Mount Etna and Taormina

Our day in Catania was another highlight.

We met our guide, Chiara, and headed toward Mount Etna. I found Chiara on Tours By Locals, a new to me site that has become a favorite.

Yes, we climbed a volcano during our cruise vacation.

Greek Theatre Taormina

Because apparently we don’t know how to sit still.

From Mount Etna, we continued on to Taormina, where we visited the Greek Theatre and explored the town. Chiara lives in Taormina, she knew everyone wandering the streets and even got us a little taste of Ricotta cream that goes into the famous Sicilian Canoli.

And then there was the food.

We ate arancini, because you can’t go to Sicily and not eat arancini. Chiara recommended a fabulous restaurant and it did not disappoint.

Taormina was one of those places that made me immediately understand why people fall in love with Sicily.

The combination of history, scenery, food and that unmistakable Italian atmosphere is hard to beat.

Florence: One of My Favorite Days

Our Livorno port day may have been one of my favorite days of the entire trip. I do love Florence!

We had a private driver (booked via Viator) take us from the port to Florence, where we met our guide for a private three-hour tour. This guide was also booked on Tours By Locals and he was wonderful.

We explored the Baptistery, Duomo, crypt and Duomo Museum before heading to the Accademia to see Michelangelo’s David.

And then we did something important.

We stopped touring.

We had lunch.

We wandered.

We crossed the Ponte Vecchio.

We found a wine window.

We shopped for leather bags.

And we ended the afternoon with an affogato before our driver picked us up and took us back to the ship.

That day was a perfect example of why I believe travel shouldn’t always be about checking things off a list.

Yes, we saw some incredible sights.

But some of my favorite memories came from the time in between them.

The wine window.

The shopping.

The affogato.

The conversations.

The wandering.

Those are the things you remember.

Villefranche and Èze

In Villefranche, we decided to visit Èze Village.

Instead of taking the taxi offered at the port, we used Bolt, which ended up being significantly less expensive than the taxi quote we received.

We explored the Exotic Garden, wandered through the village and did some shopping before returning to Villefranche for lunch and more exploring.

It was another reminder that sometimes a little research can save you money without sacrificing the experience.

And yes, I notice these things.

It’s part of what makes me a travel advisor.

I’m always thinking:

Is there a better way to do this?

Is this worth the money?

Would I recommend this to a client?

What would I do differently next time?

Marseille

Our day in Marseille was another example of how much you can fit into a cruise port day without making yourself completely miserable.

We took a taxi to the Old Port and hopped on the Petit Train up to Notre-Dame de la Garde.

After taking in the views, we headed back down and spent some time enjoying coffee and wine before lunch.

We also had a wonderful wine tasting experience, which was one of those unexpected highlights that made the day feel less like a checklist and more like an actual vacation.

Because sometimes the best part of travel isn’t the famous landmark.

Sometimes it’s sitting down over a glass of wine with someone who loves what they do and hearing their stories.

And Then There Was Barcelona

When the cruise ended in Barcelona, we weren’t quite ready for the trip to be over.

We had a private transfer to our hotel in the Gothic Quarter booked through Welcome Pickups and spent time exploring the city.

We had tapas for lunch and later toured Casa Milà and the Sagrada Família with our private guide, Jaume. This tour was a Get Your Guide find and Jaume (Jamie) was fantastic. He was a former architect, so perfect to tell us all about Gaudi’s masterpieces.

Barcelona was the perfect place to end the trip.

And, honestly, I think adding a night or two before or after a Mediterranean cruise is not something just worth considering, it is a must.

You’ve already traveled all that way.

Why rush straight to the airport?

What I Took Away From This Trip

After spending ten nights experiencing this itinerary firsthand, I came home with a notebook full of ideas.

Things I loved.

Things I’d change.

Things I’d absolutely recommend.

Things I’d tell clients not to waste money on.

And probably most importantly, a much better understanding of what makes a Mediterranean cruise work so well for different types of travelers.

Because there isn’t one perfect way to do it.

A couple celebrating an anniversary may want something completely different from a group of friends celebrating a milestone birthday.

A first-time cruiser may need more structure.

An experienced traveler may want more freedom.

Some people will want The Haven.

Others would rather spend that money on private tours and incredible meals.

Some will want to see every possible landmark.

Others will want a long lunch and a glass of wine.

And that’s exactly why I don’t believe travel planning should be one-size-fits-all.

So… Would I Do It Again?

Absolutely.

Would I plan it exactly the same way?

Maybe not.

And that’s the beauty of having the experience.

Now I know more.

I know which splurges I’d repeat.

I know where I would save money.

I know which tours were worth it.

I know where I’d build in more free time.

I know which ports I’d approach differently.

And I can take everything I learned and use it when helping my clients plan their own Mediterranean adventures.

That’s the part of being a travel advisor that I love.

I’m not interested in simply taking an order that says, “We want a Mediterranean cruise.”

I want to know why you’re going.

Who you’re traveling with.

What matters to you.

What you want to experience.

Where you’re willing to splurge.

Where you don’t care.

And then I want to help you build the trip around those things.

Because sometimes you already know exactly where you want to go.

And sometimes you just know you need a vacation.

That’s where I come in.

I’m the person who plans the trip you didn’t know you needed.

And after this trip, I have a whole lot more Mediterranean ideas to share.

Stay tuned. We’re just getting started.

And be sure to follow along on Facebook and Instagram, where lots of reels and photos of the trip will be posted.

Day Trips, Memory Keeping, NorthEast Travel

A Book Lover’s Day Trip to Catskill & Hudson, NY

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Some day trips leave you feeling like you’ve squeezed in a lot. Others leave you feeling like you’ve slowed down enough to truly enjoy every moment. Our recent bookish adventure to Catskill and Hudson, New York, was definitely the second kind.

If your perfect day includes independent bookstores, cozy cafés, unique shops, and incredible food, add this trip to your list. Grab your bookish bestie and head off!

First Stop: Magpie Bookshop – Catskill, NY

We started our morning in the charming town of Catskill at Magpie Bookshop, an independent bookstore that instantly felt like home. Every shelf seemed carefully curated, making it almost impossible to leave empty-handed. And we didn’t.

My ✈️ read

There is something magical about independent bookstores. They’re filled with personality, passionate booksellers, and unexpected treasures you won’t find browsing online. Whether you’re searching for your next five-star read or simply want to wander, Magpie is worth the stop.

Catskill itself is full of historic buildings, colorful storefronts, and that small-town charm that makes you want to linger a little longer.

Across the River to Hudson

After browsing in Catskill, we crossed the Rip Van Winkle Bridge into Hudson, a town that has become one of my favorite places for wandering.

Warren Street is lined with beautiful architecture, antique stores, art galleries, coffee shops, and boutiques. Every block offers something new to discover, making it the perfect place to stroll without a schedule.

Of course, our main destination was another bookstore.

The Spotty Dog Books & Ale

If you’ve never visited The Spotty Dog Books & Ale, prepare to fall in love.

Imagine combining an independent bookstore with a cozy pub, and you’ll understand why this place is so special. You can browse shelves filled with books while sipping a local craft beer, cider, coffee, or tea before settling into a quiet corner to read.

It’s the kind of place where time seems to disappear. Book lovers could easily spend hours here.

Shopping Along Warren Street

Between bookstores, we explored some of Hudson’s wonderful local shops.

The joy of this town is that every storefront feels different. There’s always another hidden gem waiting just a few doors down.

Dinner at Feast & Floret

We wrapped up the day with dinner at Feast & Floret, and it was the perfect ending.

The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a menu focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients. A flower bar where you can make a bouquet sits in the middle of the restaurant.

After a full day of walking, shopping, and book browsing, it was exactly the relaxing meal we needed before heading home.

Why I Loved This Day

Sometimes the best trips don’t require flights or elaborate itineraries.

Just a short drive from home gave us:

  • Two wonderful independent bookstores
  • A charming river town
  • Beautiful local shops
  • Delicious food
  • Plenty of inspiration for my ever-growing TBR pile

As both a traveler and a reader, these slower days remind me why I love exploring places just beyond my own backyard.

If you’re looking for an easy weekend adventure in New York’s Hudson Valley, Catskill and Hudson make the perfect pairing.

Have you visited either town? I’d love to hear about your favorite bookstores or hidden gems—I’m always looking for my next bookish adventure.

If you love books, consider joining Book of the Month. Your first book is just $5.00 and then a monthly choice of new hardcover books or audiobooks for a discounted price. You can skip months. https://www.mybotm.com/8oqu29ydjf3

Girls Getaway, Memory Keeping, NorthEast Travel

A Girls’ Getaway to Salem, Massachusetts: History, Charm & a Little Magic

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There’s something special about a weekend away with good friends, and Salem, Massachusetts, delivers the perfect mix of history, charm, great food, and just the right amount of spooky fun.


Our girls’ getaway started with what turned out to be the perfect home base: Broom & Board, a charming VRBO located at 26 Cross Street. The location couldn’t have been better. We parked the car when we arrived and didn’t touch it again until it was time to head home.

Everything we wanted to see, do, and eat was within an easy walk, making for a relaxed and stress-free weekend.

Our home for two nights was Broom & Board, a 2nd and 3rd floor of a house that was perfect for us. It had a large table for us to play our games on and a kitchen as well as 4 bedrooms so we each had our own room.


One of the highlights of our trip was taking a Witch City Walking Tour. Even if you’ve visited Salem before, I highly recommend starting your trip with a guided tour. The knowledgeable guides bring the city’s fascinating—and sometimes heartbreaking—history to life while sharing stories you won’t find on a plaque or in a guidebook. It’s the perfect way to get your bearings and gain a deeper appreciation for this iconic New England town.

No visit to Salem would be complete without exploring the Peabody Essex Museum. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or maritime culture, the museum offers something for everyone. We spent some time wandering through the exhibits and could have stayed even longer.

Of course, every great girls’ trip includes memorable meals. We enjoyed dinner at Turner’s Seafood, where the fresh seafood and historic atmosphere made for a wonderful evening. Bridget Bishop’s apple orchard sat on this site. Yes, that Bridget. Another favorite was Finz Seafood & Grill, offering delicious waterfront dining and beautiful harbor views. Both restaurants are excellent choices if you’re planning your own Salem itinerary.

What I loved most about Salem was how incredibly walkable it is. Between the historic streets, unique boutiques, cozy cafés, museums, and waterfront, there was always something interesting just around the corner. Without worrying about driving or parking, we could simply wander, shop, stop for coffee, and soak in the atmosphere.

Whether you’re planning a girlfriends’ getaway, a mother-daughter trip, or a romantic weekend, Salem is much more than its Halloween reputation. It’s a destination filled with rich history, beautiful architecture, fantastic restaurants, and a welcoming small-town feel that’s worth visiting any time of year.

Barb’s Travel Tips
● Stay downtown if possible—you’ll save time and parking hassles.
● Book a walking tour early in your visit to learn the city’s fascinating history.
● Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking everywhere!
● Make restaurant reservations, especially during the busy fall season.
● Leave time to simply wander—you’ll discover hidden shops, historic streets, and unexpected gems around every corner.


If you’re looking for an easy New England escape where you can park the car, reconnect with friends, and spend a weekend making memories, Salem should definitely be on your list. Sometimes the best trips aren’t about checking off attractions—they’re about laughing with friends while discovering someplace magical together.


Have you been to Salem? I’d love to hear your favorite places to stay, eat, or explore!

Check out where we stayed in Salem on Vrbo.

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California, Memory Keeping

Explore South Lake Tahoe: Sunrise to Sunset Guide

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Morning: Sunrise and Stillness

Start your day early at Regan Beach, where the morning is quiet and the lake feels almost glass-like. Locals walk their dogs, paddleboarders drift across the water, and the first light paints the sky in soft pastels. It’s the perfect, peaceful introduction to Tahoe.

From there, grab a cozy breakfast at The Red Hut Café. This local favorite serves up hearty comfort food—think pancakes, eggs, and strong coffee that fuels the day ahead.

Late Morning: Scenic Views & Iconic Stops

No visit to South Lake Tahoe is complete without heading to Emerald Bay State Park. The overlook alone is worth the trip—arguably one of the most photographed spots in the region.

If you’re up for a bit of a hike, take the trail down to Vikingsholm. The path winds through towering pines and opens to a lakeside view that feels straight out of a storybook. It’s peaceful, scenic, and just challenging enough to feel rewarding.

Midday: Adventure on the Water

By midday, the sun is high and the lake is calling. Head back toward town and rent a kayak or paddleboard near Pope Beach. The water here is calm and shallow near the shore, making it ideal for a relaxed paddle or a refreshing swim.

There’s nothing quite like being out on that crystal-clear water, looking back at the mountains and realizing—this is exactly where you’re meant to be.

Lunch: Casual with a View

For lunch, stop at Artemis Lakefront Café. With Mediterranean-inspired dishes and a patio overlooking the lake, it’s a perfect blend of fresh flavors and unbeatable scenery. Light, bright, and satisfying.

Afternoon: Gondola Views & Village Wandering

In the afternoon, take a ride on the Heavenly Gondola at Heavenly Mountain Resort. As you rise above the trees, the panoramic view of the lake unfolds beneath you—and it’s nothing short of breathtaking.

Afterward, spend some time wandering The Shops at Heavenly Village. It’s lively, fun, and filled with boutiques, ice cream spots, and little corners to explore.

Evening: Golden Hour & Dinner

Make your way to Nevada Beach for sunset. This quieter stretch of shoreline offers a front-row seat to one of Tahoe’s most magical moments. The sky glows, the lake reflects, and everything slows down.

For dinner, treat yourself at Edgewood Restaurant. Overlooking the water, it’s the kind of place where the food is as memorable as the view—perfect for ending the day on a high note.

Night: Tahoe After Dark

If you’re not quite ready to call it a night, South Lake Tahoe has a lively side too. Head into nearby Stateline for a bit of nightlife—casinos, live music, and a fun, energetic vibe.

Or, keep it simple: take a quiet evening stroll along the lake, breathe in the mountain air, and let the stillness settle in.

A day in South Lake Tahoe is a perfect blend of motion and stillness—sunrise serenity, midday adventure, and sunset magic. It’s the kind of place where every moment feels just a little more vivid… and where one day never quite feels like enough.

Memory Keeping, NorthEast Travel

Chasing Waterfalls in Watkins Glen

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There’s something magical about a girlfriend getaway—especially when it blends breathtaking nature, cozy luxury, and a touch of nostalgia. Our long-awaited escape to the Finger Lakes brought all of that and more, with Watkins Glen as our home base.

Chasing Waterfalls in Watkins Glen

The highlight of our weekend was the crown jewel of the region: Watkins Glen State Park. If you’ve never walked the Gorge Trail, it’s truly something out of a dream. Nineteen waterfalls cascade through a winding stone path carved into the rock, with arched bridges and misty staircases that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale.

We took our time, stopping often—not just for photos, but to soak in the peaceful rhythm of water echoing through the gorge. It’s the kind of place that invites deep breaths and even deeper conversations.

Pro Tip:

Take the shuttle for a few dollars from the parking lot across from the main entrance to the top entrance and hike down. Much easier than up.

Lakeside Luxury & Late-Night Chats

Our home for the weekend was the beautiful Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel. Nestled right on the edge of Seneca Lake, it gave us the perfect mix of comfort and scenery.

Mornings began with coffee overlooking the marina, wrapped in soft robes and laughter. Evenings were for wine, charcuterie, and Rummikubs. Whether you opt for a hotel room or a nearby rental, staying close to the water is part of the magic. We stayed in a house they rent out across the street from the hotel.

Sipping Our Way Through Wine Country

No trip to the Finger Lakes is complete without wine tasting, and our visit to Glenora Wine Cellars (often affectionately called Glendora) was a highlight. With sweeping vineyard views and the lake shimmering in the distance, it was easy to linger a little longer than planned.

We sampled crisp Rieslings and robust reds, each pour accompanied by stories, laughter, chocolate and that shared appreciation for slowing down. It wasn’t just about the wine—it was about the moment.

A Touch of Nostalgia in Seneca Falls

A short drive brings you to Seneca Falls, a town rich in history and heart. We stopped on the way there.

First stop: the charming It’s a Wonderful Life Museum. Whether or not you’re a die-hard fan of It’s a Wonderful Life, it’s impossible not to feel a little nostalgic wandering through memorabilia and hearing the connections to this beloved classic. Be sure to walk down to the bridge George jumped off to save Clarence!

Just steps away, we explored the powerful National Women’s Hall of Fame. Celebrating the achievements of extraordinary women throughout history, it added a meaningful layer to our trip—a reminder of strength, resilience, and the importance of lifting each other up. It felt especially fitting for a weekend centered around friendship.

The Beauty of Time Together

What made this getaway unforgettable wasn’t just the waterfalls or the wine—it was the simplicity of being together. No schedules, no obligations—just a few days to reconnect, recharge, and remember how important it is to nurture the friendships that carry us through life.

Watkins Glen and the surrounding Finger Lakes region offer the perfect backdrop for that kind of escape. Whether you’re hiking through gorges, sipping wine by the lake, or wandering through history-filled towns, it’s a destination that invites you to slow down—and savor every moment.

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