The rest of the world is just beginning to catch on to the wonders of Croatia; it was a real pleasure to spend some time there this fall, basking and exploring a place that still feels undiscovered.  I flew into Zagreb, the capital city, and visited Split, Dubrovnik, and Korcula, the legendary birthplace of Marco Polo.  Everything in Croatia is reached by boat, which adds an element of romance to staying there, and if you love fresh seafood, a stop in Croatia is a culinary must.  The Villa Dubrovnik was breathtaking, and I would recommend it unreservedly to Sybarisa clients.  Carved into a rocky cliff, the impeccably designed hotel is modern, elegant, and boasts absolutely five-star service. The Lesic-Dimitri Palace hotel, nestled in the heart of Korcula, was another spectacular highlight.  There are only six rooms in this boutique hotel, nestled in the heart of the city.  Each of those rooms pays homage to one of Marco Polo’s stops along the silk-road. The resulting rooms feel exotic, elegant, and playful all at the same time.  It would be a wonderful place to take a small group of guests.  I look forward to returning to Croatia soon, drawn back by its beauty, its hospitality, and a sense of romantic adventure.

After visiting Croatia, I was fortunate enough to spend a few days in Montenegro at the Aman Sveti Stefan Resort.  I was there in October, when the weather was in the seventies each day – a little too cool for swimming, but perfect for exploring.  The resort itself sits on a tiny islet that feels like something out of a fairy tale.  Stone houses with red roofs perch atop the rocky island, and the views of the surrounding Adriatic are unbelievable.  Besides its natural beauty, the resort staff is warm and outgoing.  I hope to return soon to Sveti Stefan and to share it with Sybarisa clients.

Every year, I join fellow travel professionals for the International Luxury Travel Mart in Cannes.  It is a whirlwind of activity:  always fun, and always inspiring.  This year, I scheduled a few days in Nice before heading to the event.  I stayed at the Negresco – a Nice icon and a favorite stop of mine.  The hotels GM, Pierre Bord is welcoming and attentive, and his attention to detail is evident throughout the hotel.  In addition to the luxurious accommodations, a visit to the Negresco gives me an opportunity to eat at Le Chantecler, the hotels two-star Michelin restaurant. Finding a great meal is hardly a challenge in France, but a visit to Chef Jean-Denis Rieubland’s restaurant is truly special.  This is not bistro food, and don’t go if you want something in a hurry.  The restaurant boasts old-world style and service, with meticulously prepared and refined cuisine.  One marvels at both the skill and the creativity that inform every dish.  I love sending clients to the Negresco, knowing that they will be well taken care of.