Italy Bound:From Fast-Paced Rome to the Tuscan Countryside

No matter where you visit in Italy, the feeling of romance and historic presences are a constant. But, deciding on where you want to go in Italy is dictated by what you desire to see and do.

Below are highlights of some of Italy’s most visited cities and quaint countryside regions to give you a better understanding about what some of the destinations in Italy have to offer on your next vacation:

The Cities

Florence

The combined vision of religious landmarks, Italian architecture, and earthy aromas give Florence, Italy, its captivating medieval aura. As you walk along the cobblestone-lined, narrow streets past quaint cafés and bustling outdoor markets, you can’t help but feel envious of the lifestyle these Italians lead. The art, history, and cultural presence reflected in every element of Florence are what give this city its reputation as being one of Italy’s most renowned destinations.

A day in Florence:

Begin your morning with a delightful cup of steaming espresso and a chocolate croissant at one of Florence’s charming cafés. Afterwards visit the Galleria dell’Accademia to witness one of Michelangelo’s most renowned masterpieces, David, as well as significant pieces that date all the way back to the fourteenth century.

After an enriching experience at the Galleria dell’Accademia, stroll through the quaint streets and enter bustling markets filled with brightly colored pashmina scarves, handcrafted jewelry, local artwork, and clothing. 

Continuing through the streets, absorb  the rich aroma of Italian leather before entering a store filled with leather-bound notebooks, authentic leather gloves, purses, wallets, shoes, jackets, and messenger bags.

It’s not long before you are captivated by a new aroma, fresh pizza and panini. Indulge your palette before moving to the world-famous religious site: the Duomo. With a remarkable Renaissance dome, breathtaking stained-glass windows, gothic interior, and regal statues, this astonishing Roman Catholic cathedral is arguably Florence’s most profound works of art.

Your day ends at the Mercato Centrale where you delight in the sight of fresh cheeses, cured meats, butcher stands, and baskets of handmade pasta.

Rome

Quite possibly the most famous city in Italy, Rome is known for its rich history and landmarks, world-renowned art scene, astonishing fashion and shopping, and savory cuisine. Alive with the spirits of past artisan masters such as Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci and past religious icons such as Pope John Paul II and St. Peter the apostle, Rome’s significant figures demand the attention of all travelers who visit.

A day in Rome:

You awake to the exciting sounds of Roman city life bustling outside of your lavish, renaissance-inspired hotel room. After enjoying a cup of Italian espresso, head to the famous St. Peter’s Basilica where you’ll be able to view 140 statues of Saints that were sculpted in the 1600s, as well as observe tombs of past Popes, including St. Peter and Pope John Paul II.

Afterwards, travel to the nearby Vatican Museums where you’ll venture past some of the world’s most magnificent works of art including 18^th- and 19^th-century ceramics, tapestries, religious art, ancient maps and more. Some museum areas you may choose to visit include the Upper Galleries, which includes The Biga Room, Galleries of the Candelabra, tapestries, and maps–Sala delle Dame, Chapel of Nicholas V, Sistine Rooms, and much more.

Now, it’s time to enter one of the world’s most sacred territories and famous works of art: the Sistine Chapel. As you enter this holy realm, witness some of Michelangelo’s most profound ceiling frescos including his nine stories of Genesis. The walls also contain magnificent frescos reflecting scenes from the Old Testament and the New Testament, as well as the portraits of the Popes.

After an exciting and jaw-dropping day at St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, enjoy a delightful dinner at a charming bistro where you’ll delight in some of Rome’s most delectable cuisines and bold wines.

As you retire to the comfort of your luxurious suite, anticipate tomorrow’s exciting activities, which include the cascading Spanish Steps, the regal Coliseum, and the astounding Pantheon.

The Countryside

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre, meaning five lands, is an area comprised of five neighboring villages that are all nestled along the romantic Italian Riviera. The combined beauty of the dramatic cliffs, brightly colored homes and cottages, and winding paths that intertwine these five villages create the quaint and majestic ambiance that Cinque Terre is so famous for.

A day in Cinque Terre:

After visiting one of Italy’s ancient cities, enjoy a soothing train ride to the quaint Italian countryside, Cinque Terre. As you exit the train, stop into one of Cinque Terre’s intimate cafés for a quick bite before exploring the quiet Italian village life of the region.

Once you’ve ventured along the winding hiking paths of the Mediterranean coastline Cinque Terre sits along, strap on your bathing suit for a relaxing afternoon on one of Cinque Terre’s sandy beaches. Or, sit atop a giant rock on the water’s edge as you sketch the brightly colored cottages staggered along the cliffs.

As the evening sets in, enjoy a scrumptious meal at a private outdoor table with a bottle of house wine and the soft sounds of the ocean before retreating to your lavish villa for a good night’s rest.

Tuscan Countryside

Nothing is more soothing and culturally enriching than the Tuscan countryside. Lined with towering Italian cypress trees, bright sunflowers, and impeccably manicured lawns, the Tuscan countryside is nothing short of divine. Whether you want to experience long bike rides, a stroll through picturesque piazzas, or wine and cheese tasting tours, the Tuscan countryside is a destination for total relaxation and personal enlightenment.

A day in the Tuscan Countryside:

After awaking in your private Tuscan villa that overlooks the sprawling countryside, delight in a warm cup of cappuccino and a fresh cup of fruit.

Begin your day exploring local piazzas surrounded by local leather shops, gelato stands, art boutiques, and perfume shops before embarking on your private wine- and cheese-tasting tour.

As you visit some of Tuscany’s most renowned vineyards, you’ll explore ancient wine cellars and taste some of the world’s finest wines. Afterwards, indulge your palette with a visit to a cheese- and cured-meats farm where you’ll learn about the meat- and cheese-making process and take your first bite of pecorino cheese topped with warm honey.

Your day ends at a rustic Tuscan village dinner table where you’ll delight in traditional Italian farm cuisine and wines purchased from the vineyards you visited earlier in the day.

Which would you prefer to visit the cities of Italy or the countryside of Italy?

Virtuoso Travel Mart 2010 Event in Las Vegas: Part II

As I mentioned in Part I of this post, I recently returned from a trip to Las Vegas where I had the pleasure of meeting some of the most influential and interesting individuals in the travel industry. This 2010 Virtuoso Travel Mart event, which began on August 14, brought in more than 3,200 attendees traveling to the U.S. from almost 100 countries—making this year the largest gathering for Virtuoso Travel Mart to date. In fact, this event was so large and successful that by the end of the 6-day event, there were a total of 312,000 one-on-one appointments, and 1.25 millions minutes of networking that occurred (which converts to 2 and a half years of networking!).

The 6-day event took place at the gorgeous Bellagio hotel to celebrate the companies that have operated under the Virtuoso status to make a difference in the lives of their clients. The event also served to bring relationships between travel agents to fruition, as well as facilitate the power of connection and communication between agents to help reinforce the Virtuoso difference.

Each year, the Virtuoso Travel Mart has a different theme and this year, it was “Defining Moments,” which “refers to the power of the travel advisor to transform a travel purchase into a defining moment for their client.”

Below is a breakdown of each day:

Monday, August 16 

Today began with a delightful breakfast followed by a handful of exciting meetings with some of the most influential hotel managers around the world.

I kicked off the event with the Grand Hotel Excelsior manager to learn about the amazing features this exclusive hotel offers. Located on the Amalfi Coast of Italy, the Grand Hotel Excelsior was renovated in the past few years to reflect the hotel’s captivating natural surroundings. With a private beach lift, guests can access the beach easily from the hotel without the hassle of walking or waiting for ground transportation.

Some of the memorable properties had the pleasure of meeting were the managers of the Grand Hotel Timeo, Hotel Santa Caterina, and last, but not least, the manager of Palazzo Sasso.

A side note: The Palazzo Sasso, located in the charming Italian town of Marmorata, is a quaint property that offers 43 luxury rooms, complimentary beach shuttle, lavish spa services, large swimming pool, and much more.

All of the hotel managers I met with today offered detailed insights into the luxury hotels that they represented.

Tuesday, August 17 

Today began with informative meetings with accommodation managers from Australia and New Zealand, Turkey, Germany, Switzerland, and Netherlands, before moving on to meetings with African suppliers, which took up most of the afternoon. Some of today's most memorable visits included Eichardt's Private Hotel, Huka Lodge, Longitude 131, The Lodge in Verbier, Lupita Island, The Cellars-Hohenort Hotel & Spa, Zambezi Queen, and Azura—just to name a very few.

We also saw a total of 106 suppliers! It was great to see some suppliers who I had just recently seen at a Leading Small Hotels of the World event at the Mansion on Turtle Creek. I also got to meet some vendors who I have never met face to face before but have a social media relationship with.

Most all of the suppliers shared what was new and unique about their offerings and the suppliers that stood out the most included: the special promotion we offer VIP clients shopping in Paris at Lafayette,  ground operators that can offer clients a VIP meet and greet service at airplane doors, property outside London- Coworth Park and Chewton Glen, a supplier who has amazing connections at every ski resort in the world, and a supplier that can get tickets to any sporting event.

Wednesday, August 18 

Today began with meetings with accommodation managers and suppliers from India, U.S. hotels and resorts, and Asia. Some of the most memorable appointments today were with Meadowood Napa Valley, Amangiri, Plaza Athenee, The Datai Langkawi, and Nam Hai.

At the end of the evening, we had a wonderful Hotel and Resort Dinner, hosted by TAJ, where the Best of the Best Awards were given out. At the dinner, suppliers had tables decorated in their destination theme, which added an interesting and unique dynamic to the night. For entertainment, a group from Australia that performs in Las Vegas called Human Nature sang Motown. I strongly suggest catching their act if you happen to visit Las Vegas.

Thursday, August 19 

Today began with several meetings with U.S. suppliers, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Some of the most memorable meetings today included Inkaterra, explora, Las Alamandas Resort, St Regis Bahia Beach, and Necker Island.

The Gala Dinner was hosted at the Aria where the tourist board of Hong Kong kicked off the evening with a spectacular dragon parade. The final Best of the Best Awards were also given out tonight.

The entertainment tonight was absolutely spectacular with an amazing male and female duo performing what seemed like a mini Cirque du Soleil act. It is fascinating what the human body can do, and I highly recommend catching a Cirque du Soleil act if you’ve never seen one before.

Conclusion for the week: This event was one of the most highly rewarding experiences for me as a Virtuoso travel advisor as I was able to meet with a powerful concentration of suppliers and accommodation managers around the world and further build those valuable relationships.

Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons, Mandarin Orient, Rosewood, and Park Hyatt were also in attendance and were represented wonderfully each day of the event.

For those interested in who received the Best of the Best Awards, here is a breakdown of each award given out:

Best achievement in design – Aria Resort & Casino, Las Vegas
Best Culinary Experience – Alain Ducasse at the Dorchester, London
Best Bar – Sir Elly’s The Peninsula, Shanghi
Best Family Program –Rocco Forte Verdura Golf & Spa Resort, Sicily
Best Spa – The Spa & Grand Velas All-Suites & SPA Resort, Riviera Maya
Best Design – Armani Hotel, Dubai
Most Innovative Guest Experience – Amanfayun, Hangzhou
Most Socially Responsible – Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica, Peninsula Papagayo
Best One to Watch – Alan Fuerstman, Montage Hotels & Resorts
Best Hotelier of The Year – Claudio Ceccherelli, Park Hyatt Milan
Hotel of the Year – The Goring, London

Voted on by Virtuosos, the final awards for best suppliers in the following categories were:

Best Escorted Tour Operator - Micato Safaris
Best Large Ship Cruise Line  - Regent Seven Seas
Best Small Ship Cruise Line - Silversea
Best Specialty Supplier - Travelex Insurance
Best Airline - Lufthansa

Did you find this post helpful? 

Virtuoso Travel Mart 2010 Event in Las Vegas: Part I

I recently returned from my trip to Las Vegas where I had the pleasure of meeting some of the most influential and interesting individuals in the travel industry. This 2010 Virtuoso Travel Mart event, which began on August 14, brought in more than 3,200 attendees traveling to the U.S. from almost 100 countries—making this year the largest gathering for Virtuoso Travel Mart to date. In fact, this event was so large and successful that by the end of the 6-day event, there were a total of 312,000 one-on-one appointments, and 1.25 millions minutes of networking that occurred (which converts to 2 and a half years of networking!).

The 6-day event took place at the gorgeous Bellagio hotel to celebrate the companies that have operated under the Virtuoso status to make a difference in the lives of their clients. The event also served to bring relationships between travel agents to fruition, as well as facilitate the power of connection and communication between agents to help reinforce the Virtuoso difference.

Each year, the Virtuoso Travel Mart has a different theme and this year, it was “Defining Moments,” which “refers to the power of the travel advisor to transform a travel purchase into a defining moment for their client.”

Below is a breakdown of each day:

Saturday, August 14

Today’s big activity was VAST Virtuoso Active & Specialty Travel, which was a fast-pace networking session with 36 different suppliers presenting their services for six minutes each. Once the six minutes were up, we were moved to the next booth. These four hours of non-stop meet and greet was a great intro for Monday's schedule.

During this networking session, my first stop—and the most powerful in my opinion—was Micato Safaris. This year, Micato Safaris focused on the benefits of sending clients on one of their exclusive safaris.

Each safari Micato Safaris sells allows them to send one child to school, which they call their one-for-one program. This exceptional program gives back to a community of over 100,000 children who aren’t attending school. Everything Micato Safaris does supports and embodies the belief that in order to change the future, we must start with the children.

Some of my other favorite suppliers included AuthentEscapes, Epic Private Journeys, Horizon & Co, Cox & Kings, and Greaves. I enjoyed hearing about these companies’ level of services and their unique offerings.

During the night, Travel Experts celebrated their 21^st birthday Las Vegas style with a Cher entertainer and some Las Vegas-inspired decorations.  This exciting event, sponsored by Silversea Cruises, brought together over 200 independent contractors from all across the U.S. to meet and mingle for the first time and be able to match a name and personality with a face.

Sunday, August 15

Today, there were some heavy and highly informative professional development sessions from morning until early afternoon. My favorite speakers were Helen Nodland and Anne Scully who provided excellent and helpful tips on the direction of business practices.

But the highlight of the entire day was the General Opening Session where people shared stories of their biggest defining moments. The keynote speaker of this session was Simon Sinek, a highly charismatic speaker, who shared his thoughts from his latest book, “Start with Why,” which focuses on attracting likeminded people to your business. He told a great story that focused on the brand, Apple. Specifically he walked through the steps of “what” Apple does, “how” they do it, and ended with “why” they do what they do. He then illustrated that when you think in terms of “why” you do what you do as the core belief behind your business, then the "how" and the "what" naturally follow. And in the end, the why is the main driving force behind your company’s success.

I have not read Simon’s book yet but I plan on purchasing it, and based on his presentation of the book, I strongly urge anyone who owns a business to purchase it as well.

After the session, I had the pleasure of meeting with some wonderful Twitter friends at a pre-cocktail tweet up: @elitetravelgal  @paulomeara  @epsteintravels  @bethlovestravel  @jillsetgo  @fullersloane  @customtravel  and @luxetiffany.

Several parties followed that evening.

Check back for part II of this blog post.

The World’s Best Golf Vacation Destinations

An unforgettable golf vacation starts with the excitement of playing on a world class course, includes gourmet dining and luxurious accommodations, and is topped off with a dash of international culture. Here are my suggestions of the world’s best golf vacation destinations, guaranteed to leave you in golfer bliss:

St. Andrews, Scotland:

Did you know Scotland is where golf originated? It’s true. And one of the best destinations in Scotland to enjoy challenging golf in is St. Andrews, Scotland.

Renowned for its spectacular golf courses, St. Andrews should be on every serious golfer’s “must play” list. One course, in particular, that is an absolute gem is the Old Course. Arguably the world’s most famous course, Old Course ranks consecutively as one of the top five golf courses in the world and has had such an impact on the game of golf that many of today’s golfing standards have been influenced by this course.

Specifically, Old Course began with 22 holes when it was first constructed. Eventually, the Society of St. Andrews Golfers—now known as the Royal and Ancient Golf Club—concluded that some of the course’s holes were too short and needed to be combined to create longer holes. And thus, 18 holes became the standard for golf courses around the world.

But St. Andrews offers more than spectacular golf. Abound with dramatic medieval architecture, quaint cafes and charming antique shops, St. Andrews offers you the opportunity to venture into the pastoral countryside and explore the historic Kingdom of Fire. Here, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Scottish coastline on the course and off when staying at the Old Course Hotel, listed as one of The Leading Hotels of the World. This five-star hotel boasts several top-notch dining options, from a formal, gourmet restaurant to a fun bar and grill.

Links at Fancourt, South Africa

Situated along the glistening coastline of the Garden Route, Links at Fancourt’s Scottish and Irish inspired golf course was designed with impeccable attention to detail that is reflective of the world’s most classic golf courses. Each and every golfer who plays this exquisite course experiences a unique combination of excitement, anticipation, peace, and sheer joy—a feeling that is difficult for other golf courses in the world to attain.

Playing on this challenging course is restricted to guests of the magnificent Fancourt Estate Hotel, a luxurious and detail-oriented resort. Whether you’re on a group trip with friends or on a family vacation, everyone will enjoy exploring the Fancourt Estate’s miles of lush forests, wetlands, beaches, seaside beauty, and the infamous Outeniqua Mountains.

Known for its twists, dips, small lakes, and lush marshes, Links at Fancourt is in fact South Africa’s most challenging course and arguably it’s most beautiful. In fact, this course is so famous that it has been praised by some of the world’s most exception golfers and was the host of the 2003 Presidents Cup and 2005 Women’s World Cup of Golf.

Links at Fancourt is much more than an astounding golf course–it’s paradise.

Augusta National, GA USA

We all know it as the prestigious host of the Masters Tournaments, but what is it about Augusta National that attracts some of the world’s top golfers? What many people might not realize is that Augusta National has changed the way the world plays golf. Dating back to the early 1930s, Augusta National boasts some of golf’s most astonishing stories and legendary feats.

Although there are a lot of factors that lure celebrated golfers to this course—including its riveting beauty, remarkable history, unique alternate playing routes, and famous past footprints that grazed the green—one of Augusta National’s most captivating characteristics is its ability to accommodate every type of golfer. From the average golfer to the expert golfer, Augusta National creators designed a course that would not only be a challenge for all golfers but would also be highly enjoyable.

But what can you experience when you’re not golfing? Step off the course and into the historic city of Augusta, Georgia. Take in the city’s stunning antebellum architecture, rich southern cuisine, and vibrant local culture. Finish off your Southern experience by staying at the exquisite Partridge Inn, also known as “The Grand Hotel of the Classic South,” which has hosted some of the most posh Southern events over the last century. From the Confederate Civil War Memorial to the Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

The Victoria Golf Club, Australia

Located in the famous Melbourne Sandbelt, The Victoria Golf Club is the pride of Australia and respected throughout the world. Founded in 1903, the club has gone on to produce golf greats such as Peter Thompson and host major tournaments, such as the 2002 Australian Open Championships. Golfers don’t have to travel far to hit the course, as The Victoria Golf Club boasts its own accommodations in The Clubhouse.

Looking to mix it up? Head over to nearby Kingston Golf Club, recently ranked the number one golf course in Australia in Golf Digest’s March 2010 issue. Infuse some culture into your trip by visiting the National Gallery of Victoria, Australia’s oldest art museum, and walking through Queen Victoria Market, one of the world’s largest open-air markets. Enjoy world class golf, generous accommodations, and ample local flavor in beautiful Melbourne, Australia.

What is your favorite golf course and why? 

Packing Tips to Feel Great and Look Stylish On Vacation

Feeling confident in your appearance while traveling can make your vacation all the better. When you feel great in your clothing, the possibilities for exploration and self-discovery are endless.

To help you feel confident in your attire and packing decisions, Lee Heyward, style expert and owner of Charleston Style Concierge, did me the honor of participating in an interview for Travel with Melissa. In this interview, Lee shares her personal styling and packing trips for every traveler who wants to feel and look great while on vacation.

Below is the interview:

Why did you decide on a career in fashion and style?

Actually, my career in fashion and style found me. I have always had a passion for helping people and a skill for putting outfits together. I discovered how to mesh the two in fourth grade when my best friend felt she needed “cooler” clothes in order to feel confident starting at a new school. I got out my Seventeen magazine and headed into her closet. I’ve been helping people find style they love ever since. Two years ago, I left the hubbub of corporate life and founded Charleston Style Concierge in order to help women everywhere feel stylish and confident every time they step out the door.

How can the right outfit make a trip special?

There is something about travel that inspires you to look your best. Walking the streets in your hometown just doesn’t seem as glamorous as strolling the streets of an ancient city or tropical island. Even though you may not know anyone you pass, you want to feel like the best version of yourself. This is why the right outfit can make your trip even more special.

A dress that makes you feel ten years younger could inspire you to accept an impromptu salsa dance that you talk about for years. The right bathing suit will make you feel confident enough to stroll the beach where you find the most beautiful shell you’ve ever seen. The right outfit is simply a combination of clothing, but that combination can help make your trip even more special.

What are your favorite travel pieces that you never leave home without?

I have been very blessed to travel to many interesting places both in my personal and professional life. No matter where I go, I have a few travel staples I never leave home without:

• A Versatile Day Bag. Other than my suitcase I want to only have to carry one other thing with me. I use a large purse or tote that can fit everything I want to keep with me during my travels. I specifically choose one in a pseudo-neutral color so that it matches everything. My favorite bag is purple and I can wear it shopping, to the beach, or on the plane in style. In my day bag, I keep a wallet that also doubles as a clutch for a stylish evening out.

• A Lightweight Layer. It seems that no matter what mode of transportation I use, the temperature fluctuates from freezing cold to suffocating hot. When I travel, I make sure to dress in a way that accommodates a lightweight layer. Depending on my destination, I sometimes use a long sleeve t-shirt, pashmina, or thin cardigan. This way, I can adjust for whatever temperature I’m in, but I also have an extra layer that is easily stored in my day bag and can even be used as a pillow.

• Tiny Toiletries. To look your best, you’ve got to have the right toiletries. Schlepping around your big bottle of shampoo, conditioner, and moisturizer gets heavy. For ease of space, weight, and peace of mind, I downsize all of my toiletries. My Dobb bag stays packed with travel size versions of the products I use. When I can’t find smaller versions of my favorite brands, I buy smaller bottles and fill them up myself.

What 3 stylish tips would you share with people to help them feel more at ease while packing?

Packing can be stressful. Often you arrive at your destination wondering why you packed the outfit options that you did. Eliminate feeling unstylish and make sure you feel great your entire trip. Here’s how:

• Try on the outfits you plan before you pack them. If you put together an outfit with items you haven’t recently worn, or have never worn together, try it on. Be confident that each outfit you pack is one you feel confident and stylish wearing.

• Pack outfits. It’s easy to pack your favorite shorts and your favorite tops only to end up with nothing you actually want to wear. Take a moment to think about the demands of your trip and plan outfits accordingly.

• Stay true to your personal style. If you have to wear something on a trip that is outside of your everyday wear, stay true to your personal style. If you find yourself needing outerwear for your destination’s rainy season, don’t settle on any old rain coat. Find one that meets both your outerwear and style needs.

About Lee

Lee Heyward is a style coach and owner of Charleston Style Concierge, LLC, a company which specializes in teaching women how to achieve easy and effortless style. Lee works with clients one-on-one, virtually, and hosts monthly seminars. Lee believes anyone can have great style with a little knowledge and an open mind. Charleston Style Concierge is located in Charleston, South Carolina.

What Is A Luxury Hotel and Historic Favorite in Venice?

Venice is one of my favorite cities in Italy!  Well many places in Italy are a favorite so that is really not a helpful statement but I cannot visit this place enough. On a recent visit, I had the pleasure to stay at the luxury hotel - Luna Baglioni. It is the oldest hotel in Venice and dates as far back as the 12^th century, once serving as the shelter for the Knights Templar.  This historic Venetian hotel, member of the Leading Hotels of the World and Fine Hotels & Resorts, is ideally located near Piazza San Marco, right in the heart of Venice.  Facing the Grand Canal, it has an elegant entry next to the small private jetty for their guests, allowing them to arrive directly at the hotel via water taxi or gondola. For guests not utilizing private transportation, it should be noted it is conveniently located steps away from the public vaporetto stop.

I was quite happy with the fact even though it is very close to San Marco’s Square, the hotel was still a very quite, my main sound memory is only of church bells chiming.  The hotel is in keeping with a typical Venetian style - ornate but on the darker side in a magnificent, aristocratic Venetian Palace that is decorated with period furnishings, ceiling frescos and Murano chandeliers.

The hotel is laid out in a fashion that is in keeping with older historic buildings I have visited.  Some of the rooms were up/down short sets of stairs off of the hallway while other rooms were accessed via narrow hallways just large enough for the luggage to get through.  It is understandable as the hotel was built and added to over the centuries and some rooms enlarged and others added to make use of all the available space.  All of these nuances give the hotel a charming feel of a more ancient time while providing all of the modern day comforts.  The room keys are just that, physical brass, old fashion, skeleton keys with an ornate tassel attached to it.  It reminds me of the scenes in old movies when you leave the hotel you drop off your key and pick it up when you return.  Quaint and special.

My room was larger than I had expected, and much brighter due to the oversized windows on one wall. The closet was average by American standards and the safe was on the small side, not allowing me to store the laptop inside.

The bathroom was very spacious with double sinks, vanity mirror and another oversized window letting great light in. One amenity I always check for is the connection to the internet, is it Wi-Fi connection and is it complementary. The welcome answer at this luxury hotel is YES, on all counts.

The hotel has a nice restaurant with a quiet bar area but there is no view or rooftops or canals, so if you are short on time or this is a first visit it would not be my first recommendation.  Right around the corner from the hotel, you will find the main high-end shopping areas of Venice with many fine shops  and restaurants to explore.

The Luna Hotel Baglioni is one of the many luxury hotel choices in Venice with a warm welcoming atmosphere that is relaxed but upscale.

If you had to choose a time of year to visit Venice, when would it be? 

How To Have a Picture Perfect Vacation

As part of our broadening topics, learn about different tips and tricks that relate to your vacation experience. We interview and spotlight companies who are experts in their field and share their knowledge with us for a better vacation, this post focuses on photography with Lisa Richmond Photography.

In the below interview with Lisa Richmond, founder of Lisa Richmond Photography, Lisa shares her best practices for great photographs.

Below is the interview:

1.       Why did you decide on a career in photography?
I've always loved working in creative fields. I really enjoy working with people and feel that I am able to make most folks feel comfortable in front of the camera. I love traveling and shooting in different locations.

2.       What do you think it is that makes photographs so special?
When you capture a moment, an expression, an emotion, it will forever bring you back to that time when you see it again.

3.       What are your favorite images taken of you or someone else and do they hold a significant memory?
I have so many favorites. Some are determined by technical skill but most are significant to be either because of the people I was shooting or the location we were shooting in. I enjoy capturing the true spirit of people and it makes me happy it when I am successful at it.

 4.       If my images are either fuzzy or too dark or blown out by the flash, what top tips would you share with people to get better indoor images for when they are in a museum or church?

• Use natural light, use window light whenever possible.
• Put the light behind you so that it lights your subject and does not fool your camera into thinking it needs to under expose. (making the subject dark)
• If you are able to bounce your flash, do it! Anywhere but straight on your subject is usually best but most amateur cameras will not allow this.
• Bump up your ISO on your camera to allow for more light.
• If your images are fuzzy, chances are you are too close to your subject or your camera doesn't know what you want it to focus on, try backing up a bit and centering your camera on your subject.

5.       What is the top tip you would share with people to get better composition in their image?
HAHA (see above) and then disregard. Don't center your subject-I use the rule of thirds all the time in that I never put my subject in the center but on the line that divides the first or last third of the image. I also use negative space to draw my viewer to my subject.  (from wiki: Negative space, in art, is the space around and between the subject(s) of an image. Negative space may be most evident when the space around a subject, and not the subject itself, forms an interesting or artistically relevant shape, and such space is occasionally used to artistic effect as the "real" subject of an image.) Don't be afraid to experiment- it is digital- delete it if you don't like it!

 6.       I want to share the experience with my friends how can I best capture a place on film?
When documenting a location, move around, hold your camera high, get on the ground and shoot up, take close up details, take overall shots- straight in front is usually boring. Mix it up to create more insight and perspective into your experience. Answer the questions, "Who, what, where, when and why", with your camera

7.       Everyone in my pictures look stiff. What is the best advice you can give on taking people’s pictures?
Keep people moving around. Don't work in the same area or position for too long. With kids, get them running (learn how to use continuous focus on your camera) - you'll find their expressions are very natural when they are doing something else. Ask a couple about how they met- give them a chance to focus on each other, not on you or the camera. Once you become more confident in your abilities, your subjects will look more relaxed as they too are feeling more confident and trusting you and the process more!

8.       What tips can you share for taking group photos?
Make sure you can see everyone (for large groups, use the "windows” method, where the second row is slightly askew to peer through row in front of them. Groups are all about balance- perhaps a bench where some are sitting, standing and then maybe resting on the bench arms- mix up the levels of people a little creates more visual interest. This can still be hard for me- trust the process. It is like molding clay till you get it right and then using your people skills to loosen everyone back up once you have struck the balance.

About Lisa Richmond and Lisa Richmond Photography:

Lisa Richmond is the founder of Lisa Richmond Photography, and can find her blog at www.lisarichmondphotography.com/blog/

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