Travel Tips

Europe continuously lures me back, year after year. I share most of these adventures on my blog, Spoon & Suitcase. Here are some great European and U.S. websites, blog spots and people connections you might enjoy.

Hidden Gems

Maybe not really hidden but not frequently visited by the typical tourist.

Agritourismos:

La Mimosa, Lucca, Italy. Nestled in the hills of Lucca, this peaceful retreat is the perfect spot to relax and explore Tuscany. Angela is kind and hospitable host.

La Mimosa

Beautiful towns

Lucca, Italy

I love Lucca! A charming walled city oozing with ancient history, art, food and warm, friendly Luccese people.

Lucca

When in Lucca, be sure to attend a concert by the Lucca Opera Festival. My dear friends, Mattia and Michelle, rising opera stars, run the productions and they are not to be missed. Check out their website of events.

Lucca Opera Festival

Alberobello, Italy

This small village feels like another world with its pointed hat stone houses.

Alberobello, Italy

Lecce, Italy

Some of the best examples of baroque architecture in the world. Artist colony.

Lecce, Puglia, Italy 

Les Baux, Provence, France

A must see quarry of art projected onto the walls accompanied by music.

Les Baux Light Extravaganza

Cassis, Provence, France

A true seaside resort, not easily accessible but worth the drive. Beautiful artisan food shops and delectable gelato.

 Seaside Paradise Cassis

Cahors, southwestern France

A small, historical town on the river Lot

Lovely Cahors 

Guided Tours

Rome

Andrea Valenti, expert guide in Rome. A native of Rome, Andrea’s knowledge of history and culture is unparalleled. My visit to Rome would not have been the same without him. Andrea offers tours of the Forum, Coliseum, Vatican and more. His email: andrea_valentini@hotmail.com

 Rome: Eating Italy. I absolutely loved this four hour tour, tasting foods in 10 different food establishments. 

Foodie Walking Tour of Rome

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Two wonderful places to stay:

El Farolito  Cozy casitas with kiva fireplaces. Innkeepers are knowledgeable about the Santa Fe area and make delicious breakfasts. Delightful!

Quiet Country Casita on Old Santa Fe Trail  Great Air B&B tucked away in the woods of Santa Fe. I loved staying in this peaceful casita tucked into the trees. Pets are allowed and there is a large outside area for them. Tonie and Mark are fabulous hosts.

Favorite Santa Fe Restaurants

Rowley’s Farmhouse Cafe  Wonderful food with a big patio that is dog-friendly. The best onion rings I’ve ever eaten.

Cafe Pasqual’s  Truly beautiful and fresh food, mostly locally raised and grown. I love the community table in the middle of the restaurant where you can sit and meet the locals.

La Choza  Seriously the best margaritas in town. Authentic New Mexican food. Fresh chiles and delicious pozole.

 

About Mary Knight

I have always been passionate about food and its origin, all things France and Julia Child. Travel tugs at my heart, luring me to new places where I can feast my eyes and senses, taste local …

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