The southwest coast of France (emphasis on the west) is such a different vibe than the South of France (over to the east) that many Americans (myself included until this trip) are most familiar with. The predominance of beach clubs and loud designer labels on the Côte d’Azur is replaced by surfers and casual seafood spots on la Côte Atlantique. There’s definitely still a degree of pretentiousness in some parts, it just has more of a quiet luxury feel. (For the record— I love a good beach club and OTT luxury moment, but it was refreshing to experience something different.)

Of all the places I visited, Cap Ferret felt the most like a hidden gem.

Cap Ferret is the southern part of the Lege-Cap-Ferret peninsula, situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Bassin D’Arcachon. The coastal landscape is juxtaposed against a pine forest covering a large portion of the peninsula. It is sometimes referred to as the “French Hamptons”, which — while I see it in some ways (yes, there’s a mix of cute towns and bohemian surf communities that mirrors South & East Hampton + Montauk, the real estate is certainly exclusive, and the locals are chic in an understated way) — in other ways the comparison feels too reductive and easy.

Cap Ferret is charming and idyllic, but there is also a wildness to it. (I write this post fully aware of the recent wildfires that significantly affected this part of France. The peninsula was largely evacuated until early August.)

It is a totally unique place, one that feels raw and almost frozen in time. It would be an ideal location for a few phone-free days (the cell service is spotty anyways).

One of the things I loved most about Cap Ferret is that while there are plenty of ways to fill your time, there isn’t a major checklist of things to do or places to see (or be seen).

The point is to slow down and enjoy the simplicity of it.

Whether you’re staying on the peninsula or visiting as a day trip, it is easy to experience the magic of Cap Ferret, even for a short time.

I ended up visiting Cap Ferret twice: first on a day trip from Pyla sur Mer (via the Arachon ferry) and then as part of a last-minute add-on stay at the newly opened Hôtel Villa Colette, so I have both perspectives!

Here’s how I would spend a perfect day:

1. Either wake up at Hôtel Villa Colette or make your way to Cap Ferret via the ferry from Arcachon. It is a short, easy ~20 minute ride across the bay.

2. Grab a bike from the hotel, or rent one at Ginette, just steps from the pier where the ferry arrives.

3. Bike down to Village l'Herbe (about 20 minutes give or take) and have breakfast at Hotel de la Plage. They offer a typical French hotel breakfast with pastries, cheeses, fruits, yogurt, etc. as well as eggs made to order. Going for breakfast means you have a better chance of beating the day-trip rush. Don’t skip the gift shop for some very cute merch!

4. Leave your bikes and spend some time wandering through the village of l’Herbe (it’s pedestrian only near the fishing shacks). You can walk up to a little lookout point overlooking the bay, visit the Chapelle de la Villa Algérienne with its captivating architecture, and (respectfully) roam around the historic fishing shacks, but keep in mind people still live and work here and you’ll also be wandering through active oyster production areas! If you feel like settling for a little, you can stop by Plage de l'Herbe, a little bay beach set in front of some colorful houses. There are a few great oyster cabins right here (Par Ici, Emile et une Huître are two that I visited), so you can always make a quick stop for some oysters, crevettes, and wine. The oyster cabins have a very casual drop-in atmosphere, really adding to the relaxing vibe of the area.

5. When you’re ready to move on, bike back up the island for an afternoon at Plage Du Truc Vert (also called Horizon Beach), a huge beach on the Atlantic side which has a lifeguard and snack bar. It is a bit of a walk up the dune boardwalk to get there, but worth it! There’s areas for swimming and surfing and you can sign up for a surf lesson if you’re so inclined. You can also go for a beach walk and check out the ruins of German WWII bunkers, now covered in graffiti.

6. When you eventually get sunned out, take a break either back at your hotel to refresh, or, if you’re day-tripping head over to Bd de la Plage, one of the main streets for some shopping. Pop into Notre-Dame-des-Flots to see the very unique stained glass window.

7. Your next item on the agenda is apéritif à la oyster cabin hopping. Head to Cap-Ferret Village des Pêcheurs, another fishing village with a great line up of oyster shacks. I recommend Chez Boulan and La Cabana d’Hortense, but you really can’t go wrong. La Cabana du Mimbeau also looked great, but I didn’t make it there.

8. Dinner at Chez Hortense! This is an institution. You’re going for the moules frites (cooked in duck fat no less), but the fish is also excellent. Trust the staff’s wine recommendation (trust all their recommendations really). Make sure to make a reservation in advance. The service is known to move you through the meal pretty efficiently, so don’t be offended — they just are running a serious operation. Alternatively, if you’ve had enough of seafood, Le Bouchon du Ferret has a more varied menu and is another great option.

9. Finally, end your day by walking down to the bay to catch the sunset over the Dune du Pilat. PSA—If you plan to extend your day trip all the way past dinner and as a result, past the last ferry (we did!) you can arrange a private water taxi to take you back across the bay on your own timing for around €80. Heads up - they might not be the most punctual or communicative, but it’s all part of the adventure (at least this was my personal experience).

As always, reach out if you’re interested in planning a trip to this, or any other destination!

The latest addition to my travel wish list

Belmond Villa San Michele in the hills above Florence, recently reopened and from what I’m hearing, the experience is more than living up to all the buzz surrounding it. The intimate 39-room property has stunning views overlooking the Arno Valley, a Guerlain Spa, and wellness experiences curated with La DoubleJ. If you feel like leaving, Florence is about a 30 minute drive away. (But you really don’t have to.)

Contact me and I’ll get you booked with added perks :)

Okinawa (a Japanese island a ~3 hour flight from Tokyo) is one of the regions of the world known for having one of the healthiest, longest-living populations1.

I went on a trip for travel advisors, sponsored in part by the Japanese prefecture in an effort to encourage visitors to other parts of Japan besides Tokyo and Kyoto (which are experiencing overtourism). Okinawa is becoming more popular with travelers looking for the secrets to living to 100 as a focus on extending healthspan has become mainstream (if you haven’t read Outlive, I highly recommend!).

Over my 5-day trip, I met locals from across the island — from chefs and culinary masters to a shaman, local elders, small business owners, and younger Okinawans dedicated to keeping their traditions alive. I was immersed in the culture and lifestyle and learned some key factors that keep them living better, longer.

Here are the key themes that influence their wellbeing:

1. Strong connections with people and nature — I’m listing this one first because this theme runs through all the others. Maintaining strong connections is foundational to the Okinawan lifestyle and means more than just relationships with people, but also extends to their strong connection with nature both as a resource and as a deity (much of their religion centers around nature worship). The link to longevity is that older Okinawans stay connected to their communities, which keeps them engaged and supported, while their relationship with nature keeps them active and provides a sense of purpose rooted in spiritual beliefs. Alcohol is part of many Okinawans daily routines, but it is not as much about the drink itself, as it is a catalyst for getting everyone together — gathering with friends and family for drinks is one of the ways they maintain connections and this is often done outdoors.

2. Food as medicine — Okinawans live very intentionally and this is especially true in how they eat. The foods on their plate all serve a specific nutritional purpose. For instance, the ubiquitous purple sweet potato is high in antioxidants which are connected to lower inflammation and better heart health. Kelp, on the other hand, is good for digestion and has anticancer properties. They have a “plant slant” to their diet — meaning it is made up largely of vegetables, legumes, fruits, and grains (primarily rice and noodles), but they do eat meat (majority pork and fish). Most of their food is locally sourced and they eat very little processed food. They follow the 80% rule (also known as hara hachi bu or mindful fullness) — meaning they stop eating once they are 80% full to avoid overeating.

3. Having a purpose in life or “ikigai” — Okinawans place strong emphasis on their ikigai — the concept of determining your purpose in life by aligning what you love and are good at, with what the world needs and will pay for. They believe that physical health is affected by one’s mental/emotional health and sense of purpose in life. This shows up in different ways, from their careers — like the woman I met who left her teaching career to become a Ryukyu culinary master to keep Okinawan traditional cuisine alive — to their life after retirement — like the Okinawan elder who practices English every day so he can communicate with visitors. They are intentional with how they spend their time (you won’t see many Survivor marathons here… no judgement!) and by giving back to others they enrich their own lives.

4. Daily natural movement — The Okinawan people are very active, with small movements built into their daily routines. One of the elders I met woke up every day at 5am to do brief exercises, then tended his garden and did some chores, and later went for a walk with a friend. His home had a traditional low table (a chabudai) which kept him nimble as he was constantly getting up/down from the floor. (As I watched him do this I couldn’t help but wonder how many Americans his same age could do this without any help.) Their focus on locally sourced food contributes to their daily movements through their work foraging in the mountains, farming, fishing, and gardening. They don’t need to do intensive workouts as their lifestyle keeps them consistently moving throughout the day.

Final thoughts…

As I reflect on my time in Okinawa I think what stands out most is that the people aren’t actively trying to do things like get 10K steps each day or eat plant based meals, but this way of life is so ingrained in their culture it is almost effortless. I say this not to diminish the work it takes to make healthy choices, but to appreciate the simplicity of it when it becomes a lifestyle. Part of me was expecting to discover some unknown “hack” or secret to living longer, but these practices are easily applied anywhere in the world — you just have to do it.

The latest addition to my travel wish list

Maybe I’m leaning into cozy season, but Heckfield Place in Hampshire, England is calling my name. I’ve heard incredible things about the spa and impeccable service, not to mention the farm-fresh meals. Look up ‘country haven’ in the dictionary and you’ll find this place.

Contact me to book your own escape! :)

Aside from traveling home to Florida for Christmas, I’m looking forward to a little travel break and making the most of New York — I plan to split my time between cozy wine nights in and trying new restaurants/bars (excited to finally try Bartolo). Exploring a new spot is a great motivator to get out of my apartment in frigid temps.

My next trip is back to Japan (!) at the end of January for another familiarization trip. I’m grateful to have another opportunity to learn more about this incredible country. I was just there in November so this is a quick return, but the opportunity was too good to turn down. I still need to write about my first visit but at this point I may combine it into one big Japan guide (just call me an expert in the making). I’m also adding a few nights in Seoul, so stay tuned for tales of treatments and skincare shopping.

Subscribe now

In today’s letter:

Notes (+ many photos) from my recent Provence trip & a beach hotel I neeed to visit.

The case for Provence in the off-season

Provence is popular for many reasons - the scenery, the wine, the food, the lavender, the overall charm of it all (!), but my favorite thing is the ‘slow living’ mentality. There’s something about being there that forces you to slow down and enjoy life as the locals do. And while there are plenty of sights to see, I never feel the same pressure to check off a list of ‘must see places’ that I do in other destinations. The region is quite spread out so unless you stay in a town, you’re not walking anywhere easily. This helps alleviate the pressure to ‘see it all’ because you logistically can’t. Not to mention the landscapes are so beautiful that you just want to sit and soak it all up.

I felt this to a greater degree visiting the region a few weeks ago in early December. Take everything mentioned above and add cozy nights in front of the fire, chilly mornings lingering over breakfast before heading outside for a walk, and afternoons spent playing games while drinking local wine.

I was in Provence last July and the heat was pretty brutal some days and summers are only getting hotter. I’m never going to dissuade someone from visiting this region any time of year, but I am (yet again) advocating for shoulder season.

This recent trip to Provence was for a familiarization trip with a group of colleagues from the travel agency I’m affiliated with. We were hosted first by Arielles at their two private homes and then Villa la Coste, an all-suites Palace hotel. Read on for more about my trip and inspiration for your own off-season Provence escape.

Nights 1 & 2 with Airelles Private Maisons

The first part of our trip was split across two private châteaux in the Airelles collection: Château d’Estoublon (in the Alpilles region) and Villa Baulieu (about 30 min from Aix-en-Provence). These are available for full buyouts and would be SO fun for a group of friends, multi-generational family trip, and of course, weddings.

The decor of both properties was rich and elegant but still homey — nothing felt too precious. The goal is for guests to make themselves at home, and we happily obliged.

The weather was mild enough during the days (40s) to go for walks (you could also play tennis) and there are plenty of cozy common areas to hang out in day and night. The châteaux are filled with plenty of wholesome entertainment options: books, games, pool table, and a movie theater. Your stay also includes all your food and drinks (wine from the on-property vineyard and liquor included).

Another highlight was the level of service and hospitality. Airelles prides itself in its generosity and we certainly experienced that — both via many surprise gifts throughout our stay, and also through the special experiences the team created — from dinners with beautiful tablescapes to a surprise DJ one night.

Nights 3 & 4 at Villa la Coste

It was going to be hard to outdo the first part of the trip, but we shifted gears and checked in to Villa la Coste, which is such a different experience it lives in another category. The hotel is part of the Château la Coste estate, which started as a winery and expanded to include an art center. The collection is amazing, with most being site-specific pieces created for the estate and you can do an art tour of the property. The contemporary art focus hold true for the decor of Villa la Coste, which is basically a living museum filled with pieces by Warhol, Damien Hirst, Matisse, etc., etc.

The rooms are all suites with some featuring pools (sadly not heated). The design is luxe and minimal and very comfortable.

Villa la Coste is just a 20 minute drive from Aix-en-Provence, the largest city in Provence, so the location is a great base for exploring. That said, with the art center, spa, winery, and 5+ dining options there is plenty to keep you busy at the hotel. And, I’m repeating myself, but the views! You really won’t want to leave — bring a good book and settle in.

There’s so much more I could say about this region and these properties. If you’re considering a trip reach out and let’s talk! I’d love to help you craft a dream trip.

The latest addition to my travel wish list

Hotel Esencia in the Riviera Maya has been on my radar, but I recently learned more about this Michelin 3-key hotel and am now even more eager to visit. There are three restaurants, a beach bar (and a speakeasy), and a spa that blends modern treatments with the region’s Mayan heritage. Maybe it’s the fact that I’m already winter (before it’s technically started), but a lounge chair and a margarita at Hotel Esencia are calling my name. Contact me if you’re interested and I’ll get you booked with added perks :)

The second part of my Italy trip was spent in the Langhe area of Piedmont, a stunning region in the northwest countryside, bordering France and Switzerland and sitting at the foot of the Alps. The area is famous for its wines (think: Barolo), truffles, and hazelnuts. It isn’t as well-known as Tuscany but delivers similar landscapes of rolling hills dotted with vines. The wines in the Langhe region are also more complex than those you’ll find in Tuscany, making for (in my humble opinion) more interesting tastings. Piedmont is a great pairing with Lake Como as they are only about 2 hours apart by car and offer vastly different experiences — I loved the combo. Read on below for my day-by-day breakdown.

In today’s letter: Part 2 of my Italy trip, wearable fall trends, and the destination to have on your radar before everyone else does.

Travel Diary: Piedmont

Day 1

We drove the 2ish hours from Cernobbio to our hotel, Relais San Maurizio, set in the hills of Santo Stefano Belbo, a small town about ~30 min outside of Alba, the capital of the region. Relais San Maurizio is part of the Leading Hotels of the World collection and opened in 2002, but the building dates back to 1619, when it was a monastery before becoming a private home in the 1800s. The hotel still feels like a home, with rich decorations and cozy rooms throughout. The hotel is also known for its spa which features salt caves that have a breathtaking view of the hills.

We arrived around 4pm so really just had time to explore the property, have a quick aperitivo, and then have a low key dinner at the hotel’s more casual restaurant Origini Bistrot.

Day 2

We spent our first full day immersed in the wines of the Langhe region, learning all about Nebbiolo, Barolo, Barbera, and some lesser known varietals like the rare Pelaverga (a lovely light red). Our first tasting was at Diego Morra, a family-owned winery which in 2013 transitioned from being just a vineyard to producing their own wines and is a bit of a rising star in the region. The open-air tasting was the perfect way to start the day and I brought a few bottles back that I’m excited to share with friends on a cozy wine night this winter.

After a quick lunch in a nearby town we headed to our second stop, Cordero di Montemezolo, the oldest winery in Barolo where 19 generations of winemakers are still going strong. I loved learning about the (extensive!) history of the winery and tasting their different wines. Naturally, I picked up a few bottles here as well.

Back at the hotel, the spa was the natural post-wine tasting destination before rallying for dinner at the hotel. The only downside of staying up in the hills is that you generally don’t end up exploring other spots for dinners. We had our rental car but didn’t want to deal with the winding drives at night and while taxis exist, it felt like more of a hassle than it was worth.

Day 3

We had a slow morning and I worked by the pool before it was time to head out for our truffle hunting excursion around 1pm. Our experience started with lunch at the house of the truffle hunter, which was set up on a lovely deck overlooking the woods. The four-course meal was naturally very truffle centric and included black truffle pasta, a fried egg with white truffle, and black truffle gelato. I documented our full experience on my instagram, so check that out if you want food visuals. The actual truffle-hunting was less than an hour as we found one pretty quickly, so I was glad we added the lunch so there was a bit more to it. The lunch was also a great chance to talk to the truffle hunter, Michele, and learn about the industry, how truffles grow, and the different types and seasons. I also didn’t realize they have such a short shelf life (only about a week), so it gave me a new appreciation for restaurants in New York that make a big production out of their ‘white truffle week’ each year.

Once we got back to the hotel I returned to the pool (I was very conscious of it being one of my last chances to lay out this season) before getting ready for dinner at the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, Guido da Costigliole, which has one Michelin star. I was a little underwhelmed by the experience overall, but the setting in a restored 17th century cellar was very cool and the gelato was one of the best deserts we had all trip. It is basically made to order and comes out on a cart with toppings like hazelnut cream (aka Nutella minus the additives).

Day 4

Sadly it was already time to check-out and start the drive to Milan before flying out the next morning. We stopped in the town of Alba for lunch and to explore a little before the drive and ended up having one of our best meals at Conterosso.

There’s a lot more to Piedmont than what we saw and I would absolutely go back to explore it further. We met a couple at our hotel that was spending 10 days just in the region, staying 2-3 nights in different areas. Originally I had wanted to stay at Casa di Langa but it was booked up; also the Relais & Chateaux property Castello di Guarene looks like quite the experience. When I go back I will time my trip a bit later in the fall/winter to try and hit peak white truffle season. Also the region’s wines are ideal for cold weather. Until next time :)

Fall Trends

It was summer weather when I was in Italy and New York seems indecisive about committing to fall (the few sub-70 degree days so far have been a tease). I’m ready for this to turn hopefully later this week so I can actually transition my closet to the new season. Below I’m rounding up some of the more wearable fall trends I’ve been loving lately.

1. Rugby Stripes - For an easy collegiate, casual look. I love rugby tops worn oversized and they can be styled simply with your go-to jeans or worn with a mini skirt to lean into the schoolgirl look. I’m still hoping that Ralph Lauren will bring back their Rugby line someday, but until then, these styles scratch the itch. I recently got this cashmere rugby sweater from Guest in Residence and it is so soft I already know I’ll be living in it this fall/winter. P.S. These styles are selling so fast, so apologies if sizes are broken!

2. Animal Print - Jenna Lyons says that “leopard print is a neutral” and I tend to agree... this is one trend (if you can call it that) that continues to stick around. I was already feeling the return of animal print last winter when news hit of Sotheby’s auction of some of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s wardrobe and I suddenly NEEDED a leopard print coat. If money was no object this Khaite one would be a real contender. I’m also loving cow print styles like these Schutz loafers for something a little different.

3. Moto // Chunky Boots - I love stomping around the city with my music blasting, on my way to arrive somewhere 5 minutes late (New York City on time), and chunky boots like these are the perfect accessory. I like the hardware and pointed toe on this Intentionally Blank pair, and the price point is good.

4. Lingerie Dressing - We were already seeing this trend over the summer and I’m loving it for fall as well. Think lace trimmed skirts, camisoles, and full lace tops and bottoms. There is so much great layering potential with knitwear, knee high boots, turtlenecks, etc. etc. I could see a skirt like this looking so cute with a long chunky cardigan and knee high boots. Just add tights for freezing temps.

The latest addition to my travel wish list

Today’s pick is inspired by the next part of Italy that I really want to explore: the Dolomites. Aman Rosa Alpina opened two months ago, giving new life — via an extensive renovation — to the Rosa Alpina, a family-run hotel since 1939 (the same family will continue to run the hotel now under Aman’s portfolio). The Dolomites are a great destination for any time of year — skiing in the winter, hiking in the summer, but most importantly, spa-ing whenever. :) And now you can visit them Aman-style. The Dolomites are sure to blow up next year with some Winter Olympics events planned for this area. Contact me to book your stay here before everyone else does!

In today’s letter: My rundown of my trip, gearing up for fall event season, and one (of many) reasons to consider visiting Mallorca.

Travel Diary: Lake Como

Day 1

We landed in Milan around 11am, picked up our rental car and drove an easy 45 minutes to Cernobbio to check in to Villa d’Este. If you follow me on instagram, you’ve already seen me wax poetic about the hotel, but it really was amazing. It is a very historic property — originally built in the 1500s as the summer residence of a Cardinal and ultimately becoming a hotel in the late 1800s — and the elegant decor reflects its grand past. There are also flowers everywhere — decorating the hotel and throughout the manicured gardens — this place even smells pretty. Outside of aesthetics, what makes this hotel above and beyond is the service — everything you want from a 5 star hotel and more.

After checking in we spent the afternoon relaxing at the hotel and enjoying the pools and spa. We chose to have a low-key meal that first night and walked 8 minutes into town to Trattoria del Vapore, a cozy, rustic-Italian spot. The food was good, not great, but it fit the bill for an easy, jet-lagged dinner.

Day 2

We started our day with a boat tour, which is the best way to get a sense of the scale of the lake and to see the famous villas. We stopped off in Bellagio and Varenna for quick visits of the towns but we only had the boat for 4 hours so didn’t have much time to linger, which was fine. Afterwards we went for lunch in town at Osteria Cantinafrasca, a homey local spot with excellent Cacio e Pepe.

After lunch my mom and I played tennis (we had to take advantage of the incredible view from the courts!). The hotel has plenty of courts and provides racquets and even shoes if you need.

We got dressed up for dinner that night at Veranda (the fine-dining restaurant at Villa d’Este). The vibe is more refined than buzzy and it felt like a special occasion spot without being pretentious. The service was excellent and the menu has a nice mix of options and was more approachable than I was expecting. We ended with a nightcap enjoying the live piano music at the al fresco Bar Canova.

Day 3

We ventured up the lake (this time by car) to visit Villa Carlotta, a museum and botanical gardens in Tremezzo. It was nice to walk around the gardens and tour the villa, although I imagine there’s a lot more to look at in the spring when the flowers are in bloom.

Villa Carlotta is right next door to Grand Hotel Tremezzo, so I popped in to see the hotel. The decor is fabulously ornate and it definitely had a buzzy vibe, even in late afternoon. We then drove back towards Cernobbio and I had a tour of GHT’s sister hotel Passalacqua, which is such a special place. I wrote about both these hotels in my last letter and seeing them in person gave me a whole new appreciation. Some guests stay at both hotels in the same trip which would be a really interesting way to experienced the different vibes and areas of the lake.

Dinner that night was at Kitchen, a one Michelin-starred restaurant in Cernobbio. I’d highly recommend this one — we went all out with the tasting menu and wine pairing and it was such a creative meal. We were originally booked for dinner at Momi, but ultimately didn’t feel like making the 30 min drive each way. I’d love to try and go next time I visit Lake Como (because there will be a next time), as it looks really charming yet low-key.

Day 4

I went for a hike on the grounds of Villa d’Este — the grounds are extensive and you can walk up to a lookout point with a nice view of the lake. I then met up with my parents for one last breakfast before playing a quick set of tennis and then reluctantly checking out of the hotel :/.

A note on picking your Lake Como hotel: Location is key when choosing your hotel as the lake is massive and getting around either by car or water taxi is both expensive and takes planning as availability is limited. Villa d’Este and Passalacqua are both tucked away in their own areas outside the quiet town of Cernobbio, which I loved because it was very relaxing (aside from some construction noise…), but this wouldn’t be right for someone wanting to be in a bustling town. Grand Hotel Tremezzo is in the heart of Tremezzo, so you can walk to restaurants, but this also means you have to cross a busy road to get to the floating pool (there are two other pools so this isn’t your only option). Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni is another great hotel, and is in Bellagio, one of the most popular towns — either a pro or a con depending on what you want. Of course there’s also the luxe Mandarin Oriental, although it is on the ‘shady’ side of the lake. The newcomer on the scene is the Lake Como EDITION (still in previews) which just opened a little north of Tremezzo.

After Lake Como we headed to Piedmont for wine tasting and truffle hunting. More on that in my next letter…

Subscribe now

Fall Event Dressing

I’ve (begrudgingly) accepted that summer has ended and we’re heading full steam ahead into fall wedding and event season. Spring/summer events are always fun to dress for, but I tend to find the richness of fall styles more interesting. This year I’m loving square necklines, complex prints, and combo-dresses (like the STAUD and Missoni examples above). If you’re heading to a wedding (or any dressy occasion) this season, I’ve put together an edit of dresses fit for a variety of destinations and dress codes. Shop the full round up here.

The latest addition to my travel wish list

Belmond La Residencia in Mallorca is a Spanish slow-living dream. The garden-filled property set amongst the Tramunta mountains provides a total escape and immersion in nature. I can feel the tension releasing just imagining an afternoon spent at the pool.

Contact me to book your stay at this Spanish haven.

Long story short, I learned quite a lot. I will spare you the full contents of my spreadsheet of notes, but I wanted to highlight a handful of properties that made an impact, organized by broader themes I found myself drawn towards. It’s worth noting that these are all 5-star hotels and priced accordingly, but the more I learn, the more convinced I am that a great hotel is so much more than a place to sleep — its a foundational part of the trip itself.

(Yes I’m drinking the Kool-Aid and it tastes great.)

1. Family-Owned

There’s something extra special about family-owned/run hotels. There’s usually just a littleee extra care put into the overall experience because— it’s personal. And they are often reinvesting more back into the property. It’s one of those details that is an extra cherry on top when I’m choosing a hotel.

1. Palazzo Avino: The ‘Pink Palace’ is run by two sisters and their attention to detail throughout the property is 11/10. The hotel is located in the hilltop town of Ravello, which enjoys Amalfi coast views with fewer Amalfi coast crowds. There are multiple bars/restaurants, including a Lobster & Martini bar which is something I didn’t know I needed in my life but now must experience ASAP.

2. Passalacqua and Grand Hotel Tremezzo: are sister properties on Lake Como, owned by the same family. They are known for their incredible decor and best-in-class service. Passalacqua is an intimate 24 rooms and feels almost like a private home, while Grand Hotel Tremezzo, although still a small 80-rooms, lives up to its name with a bit more buzz.

3. Hotel Sacher Vienna: Vienna is already a luxurious city, with its many palaces, ornate cafes, and of course the opera house. Hotel Sacher, which is almost 150 years old and continues to be family-owned and run, takes the elegance up another notch with elegant interiors decorated with rich upholstery & chandeliers (while still managing to feel current).

2. Wine-Centric

One of the reasons I love learning about wine is because it is so multi-faceted and you inevitably learn about so much more — history, cuisine, monarchies, ecology, etc. etc. — in the process. Whenever I’m traveling somewhere with a (notable) wine region, I prioritize a wine tasting as a way of learning more about the place and its history. Also, I like drinking wine.

1. Les Sources de Caudalie: is one of three (eventually to be five) Les Sources properties scattered across France — and accordingly, some of the best winelands in the world. This location sits just outside Bordeaux and would be a fabulous place to land after a day(s) of wine tasting. The Caudalie Spa is also ready to nurse any hangover (although everyone knows wine in Europe hits different). Les Sources is also a family operation, so bonus points for fitting in the preceding theme as well.

2. The Vines Resort and Spa: A stay at The Vines is an immersive visit to Argentina’s wine country. Set in the Uco Valley in Mendoza, the property covers 1500 acres of vineyards and gardens and offers 22 villas, all with their own private outdoor space. The dining experience is also notable here, featuring open-flame cooking by Francis Mallmann.

3. Palacio Ludovice: This hotel, located in the heart of Lisbon, occupies the former 18th century palace home of one of Lisbon’s most influential architects. The hotel celebrates the history of the building from preserving the original tiles to honoring its location as the headquarters of the Port Wine Institute with daily complimentary wine tastings. Also, each of the cocktails in the hotel’s bar features a different wine.

3. Check-In and Don’t Leave Until Check-Out

I’m exaggerating here as I always encourage exploring, but it is always worth noting (and certainly helps justify the price) when a hotel provides enough in the way of experiences, dining, and relaxation that you can make it the whole trip.

1. Castelfalfi: There is sooo much to do at Castelfalfi — from pizza-making classes, to truffle-hunting, cycling tours, falconry, fitness classes, and of course, wine-tastings — you would have to try very hard to get bored. If you’re not into scheduled activities, there is always the spa or lounging at the pool. The views of the Tuscan countryside alone are enough to captivate you.

   

2. San Ysidro Ranch: This is a true bucket-list hotel and has seen some incredibly notable guests over the years for a reason. (We’re talking Winston Churchill, JFK and Jackie Kennedy on their honeymoon, and more recently, Sabrina Carpenter posting a bathroom selfie.) The hotel is set on a magical 550 acres and consists of 38 private cottages all with their own gardens, outdoor showers, and fireplaces. All meals are included in the room rate, so there really is no reason to leave.

3. Mount Nelson, a Belmond Hotel: Mount Nelson is centrally located between Cape Town’s key sights, but you’ll want to book a longer stay than you think you need so you have time both for exploring and luxuriating at the hotel. There are many bars/restaurants all with different vibes (and a new one on the way) and the hotel is known for its Afternoon Tea. You can also stay busy at the spa or playing on the scenic grass tennis court.

Ready to book? Or want to be convinced? Click below to start discussing your next trip :)

Contact Me

In today’s letter: the styling combinations I rely on in summer, my summer reading list, and Christian Louboutin’s hotel in Portugal.

Subscribe now

Heatwave Dressing

We’ve reached that point in summer where the novelty of warm-weather dressing has worn off and the oppressive humidity has set in. Sometimes this makes me extra creative with what I wear, but more often, I want go-to formulas that I can apply without too much thought.

These are my tried-and-true summer outfit staples when I’m too hot to think but still want to look cute! Spoiler alert, these are mostly different ways to wear black or white (lol) but realistically my daily wardrobe skews pretty minimalist with some fun pops thrown in.

1. Black & white separates: If I had a dollar for every time I’ve seen the black top + white skirt combo in the last month (in New York, London… it’s ubiquitous) — but it’s popular for a reason. Easy, chic, and simple. Have fun and play around with contrasting silhouettes and bold accessories.

2. Little Black [Summer] Dress: This may be counterintuitive, but pick the right fabrication & you’ll feel as cool as you look. I love a mini dress with a chunky shoe or a flowy maxi with minimal sandals.

3. Silk slip skirt: This is one of my favorite items regardless of the season and one I’m always recommending to clients for their capsule wardrobes. In the summer, I love pairing silk with more casual accessories like thong sandals or a t-shirt to create some contrast with the dressed-up fabrication.

4. All white: While I’m a strong believer that white should be worn year-round, there is something about an all-white summer look, especially with a tan. I like pairing all-white apparel with black and/or silver accessories, especially when I’m in the city to give some edge and keep it from feeling too coastal.

   

Summer Reading

If you know me you know that I read a lot… around 60 books a year. When I’m traveling I prefer reading to watching a show/movie on the flight and I rarely turn a hotel TV on. I still read physical books (despite the tempting practicality of a Kindle) and I get most books from the library, which takes some pre-planning. Below are the books currently topping my ‘want to read’ list:

1. “Empire of the Elite” by Michael Grynbaum. There’s certainly been plenty of buzz about this one already and I can’t resist a look into Condé Nast during its heyday. I’m surprised there are only 154 other people on the NYPL hold list (for now).

2. “Care and Feeding: a Memoir” by Laurie Woolever. Laurie Woolever tells the story of her time working in the culinary world, including as personal assistant to chefs Mario Batali and Anthony Bourdain.

3. “Come Fly the World: The Jet-Age Story of the Women of Pan Am” by Julia Cooke. This nonfiction book explores the lives of Pan Am stewardesses during the 1960s and '70s covering everything from the strict beauty standards to their involvement in geopolitical situations like the Vietnam War.

4. Didion and Babitz by Lili Anolik. The chic cover of this book first got my attention — it’s about the complicated relationship between the literary icons Joan Didion and Eve Babitz.

Share any additional book recommendations in the comments! I realized these are all nonfiction, so I need a good novel to mix things up.

The latest addition to my travel wish list

Vermelho is the Portuguese word for “red” and is also the hotel created by Christian Louboutin (apropos name, no?). The Relais & Chateaux property is located in Melides, a small town a short drive from the Atlantic Ocean on Portugal’s Alentejo coast. I’m (clearly) a sucker for good aesthetics, so this hotel had me at the exterior photos alone, but I’m also drawn in by the fact that there are only 13 guest rooms (all individually designed, of course). The intimate size plus quaint beach-town locale has the makings of a magical retreat. Sign me uppp!

Contact me if you’re interested in booking this dreamy spot.

Subscribe now

This letter will allow me to share more on my travel experiences than what fits in a snappy reel or instagram story, as well as more style tips & inspiration, and the spots I’m loving in New York (when I’m in town). I plan to publish weekly or bi-monthly, so rest assured that if you subscribe, you won’t receive too many emails from me.

A note on the name… As a stylist and travel advisor, curation is one of the best single-word descriptions of what I do. I start with a broad idea for a trip (“two weeks in Italy”) or a general dress code (“beach formal”) and curate, from all the possible options, something that is personalized to the individual(s). This is also a reflection of how I live my life — I'm pretty discerning about where I spend my time (and money), what I wear, how I decorate my apartment, and so on. That said, I like to have a touch of imperfection and spontaneity in the mix — hence, Pretty Curated. Also, not everything has to be serious and this will be a place to share pretty places and things — hello, escapism.

In today’s letter: I share reflections from my recent trip to Egypt, my long-haul flight essentials, Wimbledon style inspo, and the latest addition to my travel wishlist.

Subscribe now

Notes on Egypt

It's been three weeks since I got back from my trip to Egypt, and… I’m not over it.

I was there as part of a “familiarization” (aka FAM) trip, meant for travel advisors to learn firsthand about a destination. I saw a lot of the country over my two-week trip — visiting Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, El Gouna, and more via a three-night cruise down the Nile River. One of my biggest takeaways from the trip is how much variety Egypt has— yes, you will see many temples, tombs, and archaeological sites, but there’s also a rich religious history, the captivating banks of the Nile, and stunning beaches.

Cairo is one of the largest cities in the world with a population of ~23 million. That was the first thing I had to adjust to post 20-hour travel day — the volume of people, traffic, buildings, everything. I slept off my jet lag and the trip officially kicked off the next day with a private tour of the Pyramids of Giza. It was surreal to suddenly be standing inches from the Sphinx and I would highly recommend the private tour for anyone looking to add a special experience to their trip. It is an investment, but because you have the place to yourself and can get closer than the average tourist, you’re able to slow down and really take it all in.

Other highlights from of our time in Cairo include: a day trip to Saqqara (the oldest stone building complex), visiting a carpet school, learning about the city’s religious history (educational and beautiful), shopping in the Khan el-Khalili bazaar (where I bought a mother-of-pearl backgammon set), and the incredible GEM museum.

From Cairo we flew to Aswan, a city on the bank of the Nile in the south of Egypt known for many historical sights (Philae Temple, the unfinished obelisk) and the vibrant Nubian culture. It is one of the most beautiful parts of the Nile river and is also where Nile cruises either start or finish (the route is Luxor <> Aswan). We stayed at BenBen, one of the island hotels, which was a unique experience and so peaceful on a secluded area of the river. We also visited the Old Cataract hotel, which is a totally different vibe and a better option for those looking for a luxury experience.

The river cruise was the most relaxing part of the trip. We didn’t even have that much time on the ship, but there was something so calming about sailing that it felt longer. I was mesmerized by all the different scenes along the river — from the farmers and fishermen to the changing landscapes and occasional temple sightings. A Nile Cruise is an essential part of an Egypt itinerary because you get to relax, see this slice of life, and it’s an efficient way to see many key temples along the way.

The Nile Cruise ended in Luxor, and we disembarked to check-in to what was my favorite hotel of the trip, Al Moudira. (The hotel is woman-owned, sustainable, impeccably decorated, and was one of the best meals of our trip.) Luxor sits on the site of ancient Thebes, the pharaohs’ capital at the height of their power, which is why it's home to so many historic sights — including the Valley of the Kings (where King Tut’s tomb was discovered), Hatshepsut’s mortuary temple, and Luxor Temple. It was veryyy hot when we were there (think 105+), but we powered through to explore the tombs, which featured some of the best-preserved and most colorful hieroglyphs.

The next morning was one of my highlights of the entire trip — a hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings. Watching the sun rise over the Nile River while looking over such a monumental historical sight dotted with balloons was pretty magical (and worth the 4am alarm).

Later that morning we headed to El Gouna, on the coast of the Red Sea. Before this trip I had no idea that beach destinations like this existed in Egypt. (It is a recent development— El Gouna was built up in the 80s.) After many days of sightseeing and history lessons, our time in Gouna, spent boating, beaching, and exploring the town was a great change of pace. I was impressed by the diversity of hotel options — from boutique-luxury to family-friendly resorts and eco-chic properties — as well as the town’s focus on sustainability and supporting local businesses (no chains are allowed). And the water is so stunning — a shade of turquoise so bright it looks fake even in person.

LAST THOUGHTS…

Egypt is a destination that was firmly on my travel bucket list, but one I thought was many years in my future — so when I had the chance to go, I jumped on it. I love history, and to see such incredible sights (that are SO old!) firsthand was incredible. Our Egyptologist guide travelled with us throughout the trip, so we were constantly learning and discussing what we were seeing— which amplified the experience.

I’ve gotten a lot of questions about safety and how I felt as a woman. I always felt safe and didn’t experience the treatment I had been warned about — even when dressed normally. That said, it’s important to note that we were always accompanied by at least our guide and a driver, which undoubtedly contributed to how comfortable I felt. Security throughout the country is definitely tight — metal detectors at hotel entrances, for example — and while that felt a bit unnerving at first, I later learned it’s a government-mandated effort to protect tourism, which is a key industry for Egypt.

I wouldn’t recommend doing this trip yourself (that’s where I come in) as there are a lot of logistics and cultural differences that would be challenging to navigate alone. Our guides made these things seamless and allowed us to be present and enjoy the experiences. It’s truly a once in a lifetime trip — if you’re considering it, reach out (email, instagram) — I’m happy to answer questions and share more about my experience — I couldn’t even cover it all here!

Long-haul flight essentials

My flights to Egypt totaled over 20 hours each way, so I had to be properly prepped to make the travel bearable and mitigate jet lag. In an ideal world, I’d always fly lie-flat— but that’s not my current reality. Below are some of my tried & true essentials for long-haul flights:

• Prescription sleeping pills. This has to be first on the list because I have no hope of sleeping upright without them. If you can do it on melatonin alone, I’m happy for you.

• Hanging footrest. This is not chic at all, but I recently started using this on long flights and it’s a total game changer.

• Eye mask and ear plugs (I recently decided to buy my own pair vs. relying on the airline handout).

• Compression socks. These aren’t chic either, but nothing is worse than the footrest, so might as well double-down on comfort.

• Travel pillow

• Moisturizing supplies: Cerabalm (this is a non-negotiable, it doubles as a cleanser and hydrating sleep mask), moisturizer (I love how lightweight the DIEUX Instant Angel one is), lip balm, hand lotion, and sheet masks (I typically reserve this for a 10+ hour flight because it is a little cringe to be that girl, but a facialist recently told me this is one of the best ways to keep skin hydrated on a flight.)

• Hydration supplies: like LMNT, or I recently started using the Arrae clear protein+ with electrolytes

• Protein bar and nuts to avoid needing to eat the plane food

• Bonus: this is a little extra, but I got an IV drip before my Egypt flight (for hydration and an immune boost) and I definitely think it helped my jet lag and I successfully avoided getting sick on the trip despite little sleep.

Wimbledon loading…

I’m heading to London later this week with tickets to Wimbledon (!) and my trip style is shaping up to be a mix of refined and preppy English vibes with a dose of inspiration from Morgan Riddle (Taylor Fritz’s girlfriend) — I am loving her looks this tournament. If you’re also doing last-minute Wimbledon packing, planning ahead for the US Open, or just love tenniscore, I’ve put together my moodboard and shoppable assortment of looks here.

The latest addition to my travel wish list

Belmond Hotel Splendido in Portofino, Italy recently reopened after a three year renovation with design efforts led by Martin Brudnizki. When he’s involved, a hotel quicklyyy moves up on my list — I love his style (see Broadwick Soho, Fouquet’s, Le Grand Mazarin). The pool with panoramic views, tennis court, and new Dior spa are calling my name.

If they’re calling yours too — reach out and I’ll get you booked with added perks :)