UNSEEN TRAVEL AGENCY

Instagram is a great source to get some travel inspiration.  As I mentioned in a previous post, it’s a great way to find things to do, both at home and abroad. There are so many adventurers out there, taking pictures of amazing places all around the world.  Unsurprisingly, I have started to create a list of these locations.  So, without further ado, here are five places that Instagram added to my bucket list.

San Sebastian – Welcome to Paradise So we took a night train from Paris and it was pretty miserable. Between a dry cough and Jon’s snoring I got very little sleep. We arrived tired and bitter. That soon changed when we saw the beach and ocean. Its great that we could hop on a train and wake up somewhere so beautiful and somewhat warm. We spent the last couple days wondering around and enjoying the weather. Not quite shorts weather but we wore them anyway. We met a couple German girls and have been partying with them as they seem to be the only other English speaking people here. Today we are hurting as last night was a late one and both Jon and I have picked up a cold. Most likely off to Madrid tomorrow. Until then, San Sebastian – Welcome to Paradise.

W e arrived at the Paris train station on Monday afternoon. Emma, a wonderful lady my mother had met in Australia, met us at the train station and took us to stay at her place. It was very nice of her and she was a great host. Normally I am not the type of person to stay with someone I barely know but I am glad we did as we ended up getting a guided tour of the city…and a free bed.Tuesday Emma worked so Jon and I went to the Eiffel Tower then took a boat tour and saw some sites. Sucker Punching Hobo in Paris Later that night we were looking for a place to have a beer and food. We found a dirty kebab place and ordered. Inside there were 2 older drunk homeless guys arguing. Another customer pushed one then the owner kicked the drunks out. As Jon and I left the restaurant I got a cheap shot to the face by one of the drunks. I think he was waiting outside for the other customer and smoked me instead. It was very odd yet funny. I pushed him and he fell over a sign. people inside c...

On a recent trip to Italy, Virtuoso travel advisor Patricia Accuosti toured ancient churches in Rome, ate Michelin-starred meals in Umbria, and spent time relaxing in the seaside Tuscan town of Forte dei Marmi. Here, Patricia shares highlights from her trip, laid out in an accessible Italy vacation itinerary that a Virtuoso travel advisor can replicate.   Stop No. 1: Rome The Hotel Hassler sits at the top of the famous Spanish Steps, next door to the Trinità dei Monti church. The welcoming hotel staff’s enthusiasm was infectious, and the property recently completed a lovely renovation to celebrate its 125th anniversary. Rooms are comfortable, cozy, and well appointed. Plan for dinner at the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant Imágo – the experience pleases the palate and the eyes, with spectacular panoramic views overlooking Rome. Virtuoso travelers receive breakfast daily and a $100 dining credit. Virtuoso travelers can work with Access Italy, an onsite tour connection in the coun...

A relatively small area boasts a plethora of wonderful sites and natural wonders creating spectacular landscapes. Take a look at these ten picks of the week and plan a day trip once you are in the United Kingdom. 10. Mayfield Lavender, England Just a short drive from London, quite an unexpected view awaits you. Fragrant and vivid fields of lavender are open for the visitors to view. All summer the fields are bursting with an unforgettable scent and colors, a great place to have a relaxing stroll. Photo from Mayfield Lavender Photo by Unknown 9. Oddicombe Beach, England One of the favorite beaches in Torquay – the so called British Riviera – Oddicombe will be endorsed by the swimmers and sunbathers. The picturesque beach also provides various facilities, has a cafe and of course a soft sandy strip. Photo by Steve Oldham Photo by Just Passing 8. Dunnottar Castle, Scotland Posited on a rocky headland, the Medieval castle is responsible for this wonderfully dramatic landscape. An...

Its no secret I am head over heels in love with Switzerland. The rolling hills, the impressive scenic railways, the delicious pastries and the difficult to beat ski destinations… Switzerland is a winter playground but also has so much to offer year-round when visiting the beautiful cities and towns dotted throughout the landlocked country. As this is my fourth visit to Switzerland and I have now seen more of the country than I could have ever imagined a few years ago on my first visit, I feel it is my duty to share my findings to help you plan your Swiss adventure and be sure to get the most out of your trip! Bern The Swiss capital is quite literally as pretty as a postcard when viewed from above and the heart of the Old Town never fails to impress travellers in search of that quintessential Swiss experience. You can expect a great range of restaurants here in Bern but my favourite culinary feature is the endless supply of choices in terms of patisseries, here known as a cond...

Italy has a rich and tumultuous history of families fighting over the power. No wonder the country is sprinkled with various castles from various different eras. The sites provide a good introduction to the Italian history as well as allow to admire the beautiful architecture. Check out our ten choices. 10. Banfi Castle, Tuscany The splendid castle is surrounded with the vineyards and is famous for producing sparkling wine known as Banfi Piemonte. Moreover, visitors are welcome not only to have a tour around, but also have an event or stay at the castle for a special occasion. Why to go there? Learn about wines and also enjoy great accommodation in this historic beauty. Photo by Unknown Photo by Unknown Photo by Unknown 9. Castle of Charles V, Lecce First castle was erected here in the Middle Ages. Later on it was improved by Charles V in 1539. Today it serves as the seat of the Cultural Affairs of the township of Lecce – a very glamorous place to be working in indeed! Why to...