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Travel By Darcy

Creating Memorable Vacations Since 1996

Europe

Top Honeymoon Spots in Europe

Couple with bikes looking at river view.

Romantic bicycle ride for two

Europe is one of the world’s most enticing and exciting travel destinations—especially when it comes to romance. Choose to honeymoon in Europe, and you can experience just about anything, from a cruise around the Greek isles to wine tasting in Tuscany to bar-hopping in Dublin. Here’s a quick look at several of the best honeymoon destinations in Europe:

Italy

While the word “Italy” might instantly conjure up idyllic images of verdant green hills specked with peach-colored villas, this country has a delightful diversity beyond its rural villages, like the fashion of Milan, the art of Florence, and the otherworldliness of Venice. Anywhere you turn, you’ll come face to face with history, and you’re never far from a life-changing glass of wine and plate of pasta (with extra truffles, please!).

England

Though you speak the same language, that’s pretty much where the similarities end. From shopping the trendiest boutiques in London to strolling through beautiful countryside in the Cotswolds, there’s an impressive score of experiences to be had. Get a sense of all that came before when you visit museums and castles and then, no matter where you are in the country, recharge with a plate of authentic fish and chips at a locals-only pub.

France

Though roughly the size of Texas, France manages to offer what seems like a world of romantic options, from strolling hand-in-hand through the lavender fields of Provence to frolicking in the surf along the French Riviera to kissing at the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. You’ll also enjoy access to world-class delights like fashion and food, wine and water (with the Mediterranean, North Sea, English Channel, and Rhine River). Ooh la love!

Greece

With a coastal landscape unlike anywhere else on earth—boasting bright-white villages hugging cliffs that extend down towards the twinkling azure sea—Greece is distinctly and delightfully itself. Savor fresh seafood and incredible wine as you get to know honeymoon-friendly islands like Santorini and Mykonos, with their iconic clusters of cube-shaped homes and caldera views. After a day spent exploring this country’s ancient past, return to the present in a flash with an evening dissolving into its electric nightlife.

Ireland

The Emerald Isle is a gem of a honeymoon destination. Though you speak the same language, you’re definitely far from home. There’s lots to see and do here, from touring a fairytale castle to sipping Guinness in a proper pub. Cities like Dublin offer an urban escape, but renting a car (or hopping on a train) is a must, to visit a charming countryside known for its 40 shades of green and truly friendly locals.

 

These are just a few of your many ways you can honeymoon in Europe. Want personalized advice and a custom itinerary? Get just that, and so much more, when you enlist me as your Romance Travel Specialist. For the past 20 years, my job, my passion, has been making travel dreams come true. (See how this process works, and the many benefits of using a travel agent.)

To get started, complete my Honeymoon Questionnaire, call 603-418-8698 or send an email to me at info@travelbydarcy.wpcomstaging.com. I look forward to working with you!

xoxo

6 of the Most Romantic Places in Italy

Italy is unquestionably a place where art, architecture, history, tradition and nature all combine to create an unforgettable romantic experience. Whether you are travelling with your significant other or travelling to find one, take a journey through this country of romance and live like a local. In no particular order, here are 6 of the most romantic places to visit in Italy.

Warning: these images are very captivating and if you do visit these fascinating places you may not want to come home.

 

Positano

Positano

This town is located on a steep hill and is one of the many gems of the Amalfi Coast. The walk from the top of this scenic town to the bottom is filled with charming boutiques and restaurants. It is almost impossible to visit one town on the Amalfi Coast without visiting all of them. The drive on the Amalfi Coast is perhaps one of the most beautiful in the world.

 

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Venice

Of course, the Floating City had to be on this list. Venice is unique and always awe-inspiring. The colourful reflections off the water will simply leave you speechless. When in Venice, make sure to visit the nearby islands like Murano and Burano (seen in the picture above) which are easily reachable by the frequently passing boats.

 

cinque terre

Cinque Terre

Located in the North of Italy, Cinque Terre literally translates to “five lands”. These five seaside villages add a splash of colour and life to the steep coastline. Walking through this area is like living in a real-life fairytale. Cinque Terre is a romantic, picturesque and traffic-free place with a characteristic Mediterranean seafood cuisine.

 

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Rome

The Eternal City has always been a place of plenty honeymoons. Filled with fountains, piazzas and inspiring buildings, Rome is the capital of Italy and romance. The hills of Rome offer bird-eye views of the many basilicas and villas of the city. If you feel like Rome gets too crowded, you can visit the delightful quiet parks like Villa Borghese, Villa Pamphili and many others.

 

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Capri

If you are looking to relax and enjoy some fresh air, Capri is your ideal destination. This island is filled with fascinating views and friendly locals. Experience the slow way of life by wandering to exquisite restaurants immersed in the picture-perfect nature. While on the island, make sure to hop on a boat and visit the Grotta Azzurra – a remarkable sea cave.

 

lake como4

Lake Como

George Clooney has a home here – so this lake must be quite a romantic place. Filled with resorts and gardens, the magical Lake Como is surrounded by Italy’s Alps. Small towns like Bellagio, Menaggio and Como add some history to this peaceful area. In these towns you can visit the stunning lakeside villas and palaces, many of which are there since Roman times.

Ready to go? Contact me  for a customized itinerary or group quote today.

5 Not-To-Be-Missed Museums in Paris

Musee Jacquemart Andre

The Louvre and the Musee d’Orsay are already on your list. But Paris is filled with wonderful, smaller museums that are not to be missed. They’re not exactly hidden, but they certainly are gems.

Musée Carnavalet

I love this funky, old museum housed in two beautiful, adjoining mansions, but if you don’t start at the beginning (in the basement), you could wander around in a daze. This place is a 3D-version of the story of Paris; like walking through a history book. It takes you step-by-step through the city’s development from prehistory, when it was the villageof Lutèce, through Roman times, the Renaissance, the French Revolution, the Belle Epoque, and on to today. After you’ve traveled through time, relax in the beautiful, courtyard gardens.

Details: Musée Carnavalet (23 rue de Sevignée; tel. 01/44-59-58-58; www.carnavalet.paris.fr; 3rd arrondissement, Metro: Chemin Vert orSaint Paul) Free; closed Mondays.

Musée Jacquemart-André

This sumptuously-decorated, 19th-century mansion is as much a work of art as the masterpieces it houses. Edouard André, from a prominent banking family, and his wife, artist Nélie Jacquemart, had a passion for art. They traveled extensively collecting paintings, sculpture, tapestries, furniture and objects d’art. Their collection includes works by Botticelli, Chardin, Fragonard, Mantegna, Rembrandt, and Van Dyck. There’s even a room devoted entirely to Renaissance paintings. Visiting this museum gives you a glimpse into the elegant lifestyle of the Belle Epoque.

Details: Musée Jacquemart-André (158 Blvd Haussmann; tel. 01/45-62-11-59; www.musee-jacquemart-andre.com; 8th arrondissement, Metro: Miromesnil or Saint Philippe du Roule) Open daily.

Musée Bourdelle

Antoine Bourdelle’s colossal sculptures are on display in his former home, studio and garden, tucked away on a side street in the bustling Montparnassedistrict. Bourdelle studied at the Ecole des Beaux Arts in Parisand in 1893 became an assistant to Rodin. The lovely garden is a great spot to repose after hours of sightseeing; bring a book and a snack.

Details: Musée Bourdelle (18 rue Antoine Bourdelle; tel. 01/49-54-73-73; www.bourdelle.paris.fr; 15th arrondissement, Metro: Montparnasse-Bienvenüe) Closed Mondays.

Musée Zadkine

Near the Jardin de Luxembourg, a little garden and the former atelier of sculpture Ossip Zadkine are hidden away. The Russian artist, who came to Parisin the early 1900s, lived and worked in this tranquil spot from 1928 to 1967. The collection features his abstract sculptures along with paintings, drawings and photos documenting the work.

Details: Musée Zadkine (100 bis, rue d’Assas; tel. 01/43-26-91-90; www.zadkine.paris.fr; 6th arrondissement, Metro: Vavin or Notre Dame des Champs) Closed Mondays.

Le Corbusier Buildings

If you love architecture or just modern design, it’s worth a trip to this cul-de-sac off Rue du Docteur Blanche. There are two houses, built in 1924, by the famous architect Le Corbusier (Charles-Édouard Jeanneret-Gris): Maison La Roche (tel. 01/42-88-75-72; open to visitors) is a wonderfully-preserved example of Le Corbusier’s work. It was commissioned by Raoul La Roche, who wanted a house with a gallery to display his painting collection. Maison Jeanneret (library visits by appointment only) houses the Foundation.

Visit Le Corbusier’s apartment and studio on the top floors of Immeuble Molitor. He lived here from about 1934 until his death in 1965. This light-filled, vaulted space is still decorated with his personal belongings; a treat for Le Corbusier aficionados.

Details: Fondation Le Corbusier (8-10 Square du Docteur Blanche; tel. 01/42-88-41-53; www.fondationlecorbusier.fr; 16th arrondissement, Metro: Jasmin or Michel-Ange-Auteuil) Closed Sundays & Monday mornings. Appartement de Le Corbusier (24 rue Nungesser et Coli; tel. 01/42-88-75-72; 16th arrondissement, Metro: Michel-Ange-Molitor or Porte d’Auteuil) Open Saturdays only, one metro stop or a 20min. walk from the Foundation.

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The best way to experience Paris is to stay in a boutique hotel or rent an apartment if staying a week or more.  Contact me for ideas and complete travel planning assistance.

Italy Sampler

I often see special offers for Italy advertised at ridiculously low rates. It’s only when you dig deeper you find out the hotels are super basic, there are a lot of add-on’s to make your trip truly special and not a lot of flexibility.  Here is a sample itinerary that really does provide the best of Rome, Florence & Venice – ideal for first time travelers to Italy or those looking to revisit some of their favorite areas.

Day 1: Upon arrival into Rome you will be met in the arrivals hall and transferred to your hotel

Enjoy 3 nights at Hotel Mascagni (4*) or similar in a standard room with breakfast daily

You have a 48hr Rome Open Top tour ticket included in your package which is valid for two consecutive days.

Explore Rome at your own pace on an extensive hop on hop off itinerary through the heart of Rome. The buses are open top which allows you to enjoy full 360 degree panoramic views as you travel along your route. A recorded commentary in 7 languages via headphones will be at your disposal. You can opt to start exploring the city now or wait until the following morning

Day 2: Day at leisure to explore Rome

Day 3: Day at leisure to explore Rome or perhaps take a day trip to see the ruins at Pompeii or the coastal villages of the Amalfi coast.

Day 4: This morning take the train to Florence and enjoy the rest of the afternoon getting acquainted with this historic city

Enjoy 3 nights at Cellai Boutique Hotel (4*) or similar in a standard room with breakfast daily

Day 5: This morning enjoy a walking tour of Florence

Enjoy discovering Florence with a unique in-depth tour led by specially trained guides, famous for being knowledgeable and entertaining and run by the only Florence tour company recommended by just about every major travel guide and seen on BBC World, History and Discovery channel. Experience the highlights and must sees of Florence with fabulous stories that bring the past to life. Hear how Florence’s 2000 years of tumultuous history changed the world forever. Feel free to ask questions with this exclusive small-group only tour. Sound systems included if groups consists of more than 6 people.

Rest of the afternoon at leisure.

(Note: I strongly recommend pre-booking tickets to the Uffizi or Accademia Gallery if this is of interest)

Day 6: Enjoy a full day tour of San Gimignano,Siena and Chianti

Experience with this tour a wonderful day in the Tuscan countryside, admiring the most suggestive corners of Siena , San Gimignano, the Chianti area and try with us the unique flavor of local wines. Departing from Florence, our tour will start in Siena, where our local and expert guide will lead you through its steep medieval streets, admiring the splendid palaces until we will reach the Cathedral (interior), Palazzo Comunale (Municipal Building) and Piazza del Campo where the Palio race takes place every year. Then free time for lunch (excluded) and shopping. We’ll continue with a stop in Monteriggioni, well known worldwide for its wine and its countryside of unrivalled charm, where woods alternate with vineyards and olive groves, in a landscape dotted with Romanesque churches, farmhouses, villas and castles. The visit will continue to San Gimignano, one of the most fascinating examples of medieval towns, declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco: you will have free time to discover the beautiful squares, buildings, churches and suggestive alleyways and to shop.Finally we’ll stop in a farm house , where you’ll taste some of the best Tuscan wines with a little snack of sliced cold meats, bruschettas, salami and cheese. Tour includes: Transport, tour escort, local guide in Siena, Siena Cathedral entrance, wine tasting, free time in Monteriggioni and San Gimignano. Operates: Daily except Thursday & Saturday

Day 7: This morning take the train to Venice and then the water bus or water taxi on to your hotel. Venice Island is ideal for exploring on foot or by boat.

Enjoy 2 nights at Duodo Palace (4*) or similar in a standard room with breakfast daily

Day 8: Spend the day exploring Venice. This evening sit back in your gondola and allow yourself to be serenaded as you float past the palaces of the Grand Canal. We join a flotilla of gondolas gathered around a barge containing the musicians and singers to float along the fascinating Grand Canal, glittering in the reflection of the illuminated facades of the sumptuous ‘Palazzos’. Return in the dark stillness of some of Venice’s interior canals. What better way to spend your last night in Italy!

Day 9: Bid Arrivederci to Italy and depart for home

Package Includes:
– Arrival transfer in Rome
– 3 nights Rome accommodations
– 48hr Rome Open Top ticket
– 3 nights Florence accommodations
– Morning guided walking tour of Florence (3hrs)
– Full day guided tour of San Gimignano,Siena and Chianti
– 2 nights Venice accommodations
– Evening Gondola Serenade
– Breakfast daily
– Hotel taxes (tourism tax additional)
– 2nd class rail tickets (Rome-Florence-Venice)

From $1,399USD per person, land only

Please note this is a sample package only. Rates are per person based on double occupancy and subject to change without notice. Starting from rate based on travel in October. Rates may be higher or lower depending on your specific dates of travel.  Package can be fully customized to the travelers needs. Airfare is not included but can be added. Valid US passport required for travel.

Contact me today for your custom quote!

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Tel: 603-418-8698
Email: info@travelbydarcy.com

About Me

I’ve come nose-to-nose with a giraffe during an African safari. I’ve strolled along the ancient pathways of Machu Picchu. I’ve honeymooned in the Australian Outback. I’ve stayed in villas, enjoyed all-inclusive vacations, and gone on cruises and escorted bus tours. Collectively, these experiences—and many, many more—add up to a pretty impressive travel resume but, more importantly, they make me a great choice for your go-to travel agent. Read More…

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