Lario is for Lovers

Are you looking for a quintessential romantic location that is a little farther afield? If so, consider the Lago region of Italy!

Lario (also called “Lago”) is home to the stunning, iconic Lake Como in Lombardy, Northern Italy. It’s also within driving distance of dreamy seaside villages that shape the area while offering a variety of boutiques, restaurants, quaint squares, and villas to explore at your leisure.

After exploring the region in our ideally suited car rental, a Fiat Sport, and on the ever-reliable water ferries, we discovered some new favorites of our own. One could easily while away the hours meandering through the idyllic grounds of one of the area’s most iconic landmarks, the enchanting gardens of ‘Villa Melzi’ (pictured below).

The lake lifestyle is all about slowing the pace of life enough to enjoy the overwhelming beauty of this region. One such place is Bellagio, dubbed ‘the pearl of Lake Como.’ Along with stunning landscapes, idyllic gardens, and medieval villages, silk manufacturing is another main reason Lake Como became famous worldwide. Over the years, silks from the Lake Como region have gained so much popularity that in 1972, its production exceeded that of China and Japan. Don’t miss a visit to ‘Azalea Silk of Como‘‘ (founded in 1960), one of Bellagio’s oldest handmade silk retailers.

Bellagio is certainly iconic and worthy of a visit, but we found the lesser-known Mennagio to be quite charming, possessing a more relaxed and welcoming feel. You can capture and enjoy the infectious ambiance of Mennagio by settling in at ‘Café Del Pess’ off the main square. When you are ready to meander down the quaint, boutique-lined walkways, take time to explore the lovely and quirky collection at ‘Decio-Immagine Casa’.

Your visit to Lake Como would be incomplete without touring the idyllic ‘Villa del Balbianello’ in Loveno (pictured below). This stunning property has become world famous by appearing in Star Wars and James Bond films, but even if you’re not a fan of those films, the estate is not to be missed! The property can be reached by car, but we opted for the more romantic approach via water taxi (which I highly recommend).

While visiting Lario, we discovered many gems and created even more treasured moments. As a result, we are thrilled to curate travel experiences at this unique destination for our esteemed clients. Are you and your love ready for Lario?

We look forward to working with you!

Have Beauty. Must Travel.

We have curated a list of NEW travel products that are travel expert-approved, TSA-approved, and small enough to fit in your carry-on during your upcoming adventures too!

1. Good Condition Skincare brand debuted in 2024 with a range of Eco-Luxury beauty essentials. The new sustainably focused brand offers luxurious face and body collections in biodegradable and plastic-free packaging. Cherie Baughn founded the brand to help combat multiple skincare conditions and to address sustainability in the beauty industry. The hand-crafted, ‘Safe’, and ‘Leaping Bunny’ Certified solid moisturizer formulas are designed to protect the skin during the day and recharge it overnight.

2. Beekman 1802 -Pure Goat Milk Travel-Sized Face Wipes are perfect for on-the-go cleansing! Enriched with goat milk, cucumber, aloe, and CoQ10, these fragrance-free wipes will surely be the ultimate refresher. The consumer trials yielded zero allergic reactions or sensitivity flareups, and nearly all (90% or more) participants reported that their skin was softer, smoother, healthier, and more radiant after using their Clinically Kind® products for 6 weeks or more. You can easily carry them in your purse, backpack, fanny pack, or whatever your favorite carry-on may be.

3. Cashmere Reversible Luxury Travel Throw—Our extra-soft Cashmere travel blanket is the perfect companion to snuggle on chilly airplanes! The extra-soft throw is handwoven by local artisans in the Himalayas; they only use ethically sourced Cashmere wool from Nepal to create handmade blankets that wrap around you like a warm and fuzzy hug.

4. High On Love®-The Minis Pleasure Collection - Proof that the best things come in small packages! Treat yourself and your someone special to the ultimate in sensual pleasure with ‘‘The Minis’, an essential from HighOnLove®, which is a bestseller. Relax and pamper skin with the ‘Sweet Lavender Sensual Bath Oil,’ indulge in a lover’s massage with the ‘Strawberries & Champagne Sensual Massage Oil,’ then elevate your foreplay with our plumping and tingly-sweet ‘Lip Gloss.’ Take your pleasure to new heights with their award-winning ‘Stimulating Sensual Oil’ and a CalExotics® Mini Wand™ silicone bullet vibe, beautifully bedazzled, USB rechargeable, and features ten speeds to enjoy during intimacy.

5. Stackers Travel Jewelry Box - The designers at Stackers have created the ultimate travel jewelry box for necklace lovers!
This sleek box features a soft velvet lining and a pull-out necklace holder, meaning no more tangled chains while traveling.
There are additional compartments for your rings and earrings, so you never have to be without extra sparkle!

6. Bandolier -Utility Crossbody with Case. Meet ‘Billie’, this versatile, limited-edition interpretation of modern style and function, ‘Billie’ is a leather iPhone wallet with a multi-pocketed and adjustable utility strap (nylon shoulder adjustment). Crafted with three distinct compartments and dotted with gold details, she creates a refreshing space for easy travel and show-stopper moments. 

7. ‘DROWSY’ Silk Sleep Mask -This Silk, padded face-hugging mask cocoons you for luxurious beauty sleep in total darkness. It has been dubbed ‘The World’s Most Luxurious Sleep Mask’, so drifiting off into ‘la-la-land’ just became a whole lot more sumptuos!

Room for Romance

How to create a master bedroom that inspires romance and intimate connections.

Did you know that science has revealed five distinct pathways or gates through which you create deeper bonds and profound memories with others? Each “Sense Gate” allows input to transcend the physical, affecting one's soul and spirit. Consequently, there is a spiritual aspect to everything we do in the physical. Since we are spirit beings wrapped in flesh, our bodies are how ‘information’ is created, collected, and stored; the great news is that we can choose to positively impact ourselves and others through this gate.

I encourage you to spend some focused time with your spouse considering and discussing each one of the five ‘gates’ and some new ways they can be harnessed to enhance your intimate interactions and connection. Little changes can make BIG differences, but change can be hard, so take your time and have fun!

1. Eyes/Sight—The things we look upon drive the focus of our hearts and influence our moods, opinions, and beliefs. Would you like to feel more tranquil? Consider a soft neutral, blue, or green color palette, and eliminate clutter. Would you like to feel more passion? Consider dramatic color palettes like black, red, and gold. Would you like to feel more luxurious? Consider incorporating some high-end textured fabrics (even if it’s just accent pillows and a throw). Would you like to limit distractions? Consider eliminating all photos of parents, children, and friends and incorporating pictures of you and your spouse (especially romantic or fond moments). Would you like to ‘set the mood’ for love-making? Consider exchanging your standard lamp bulbs for red bulbs, lighting candles throughout, or installing string lights overhead. Would you like to add a little excitement or fun? Consider wearing something sexy that your spouse will take pleasure seeing you in.

2. Ears/Hearing- Words, music, and ambient sounds impact our thoughts, feelings, and emotions. In addition, when sounds are part of an experience, they can become permanent reference points for future recollection. For example, If you enjoy listening to a favorite song or musician while making love, you will be reminded of that experience every time you hear it/). If you aren’t in the habit of playing background music while enjoying love-making sessions, consider creating a playlist that you and your spouse will enjoy; if you have children or relatives living at home, or if you live in a community setting, consider playing ambient music for added privacy, or to drown out unwanted sounds that may create distractions.

3. Body/Touch/Physical: What/Who/How we touch can have dramatic and tangible impacts on ourselves and others by leaving indelible imprints on every aspect of our being. Have you considered and discussed how you and your partner prefer to be touched? Some may prefer a firm touch or hold over a soft one. Some may not like a specific area or place on their body to be touched; this can be due to past trauma or existing pain sensations. Touching can convey all sorts of feelings and emotions, too. Consider the difference between touch that expresses affection and desire versus touch that conveys aversion and disinterest. Are you and your partner touching each other honestly and with integrity? Is your touch authentically conveying how you feel, and are you honoring your partner’s feelings too? Experimenting with various touch sensations can be another way to deepen intimacy and increase overall satisfaction. You may also consider adding sumptuous bedding (like silk, velvet, and fur) and foreplay fun with warming oils/lubricants, feather ticklers, vibrators, etc., to explore this gate further.

4. Nose/Smell- Scents highly impact mood and create lasting memories attached to emotions. We have been utilizing scents to perfume our bodies for thousands of years, and we are still doing it today with even more technology behind the fragrance blends. Some producers, like Booty Parlor infuse their intimate care and beauty products with pheromones. Others, like Lànua offer naturally flavored lubricants created with top-quality plant-based ingredients that smell yummy. And, Rosebud Woman has earned thousands of 5* reviews for their Signature Skincare Formulations that leave intimate skin feeling and smelling divine. Consider trying a new fragrance or incorporating a new product into your beauty/self-care regime. Another easy way to engage your nose gate is by using scented candles or an essential oil diffuser prior to lovemaking sessions.

5. Mouth/Taste/Speech—The mouth gate is a profound source of life, influence, and power (one that is traditionally quite challenging to control). We engage our mouths just moments after we are born to express emotion, acquire nutrients, and bond with our mothers, and the vast array of verbal expressions and flavors to experience are potentially infinite. So, how do we engage the mouth gate more creatively in the bedroom? That’s just it! Be creative. You may consider weaving the occasional slow morning into your routine to include a romantic breakfast in bed. Or you may consider a decadent foreplay session to include champagne and chocolate covered strawberries. Whatever you decide to do, remeber your ‘why’ for doing it… to increase the depth and quality of your intimate connection, which always creates deeper love bonds that will last a lifetime.

Rest & Romance

Fun and creative ways to weave rest and romance into your next holiday togetherNew Post Coming Soon!

Parisian Passion

A curated itinerary to cultivate deeper loving connections on a three day weekend in the city that is perfect for lovers. New Post Coming Soon!

Little Luxuries. Must Travel.

Every traveler has “go-to” items that make the journey run more smoothly; we have curated a few “must have” items for you too…New Post Coming Soon!

Moroccon Romance

With it’s richly diverse history, untold mystery, and electric vibrance, Morocco has all of the makings for an exotic adventure for your next romantic getaway…New Post Coming Soon!

Grecian Honeymoon

Ahhhhh… the Greek Isles; with it’s idyllic beauty, warm sun, and even warmer people, the Greek Isles make for a storybook Honeymoon. Luis and I have been exploring and discovering the unique charms and endless adventures that await amongst these stunning jewels since 2001, and we still can't get enough! So, if romance is what you're hoping for on your next getaway, here are a few of our recommendations: 

Your first introduction to Greece will likely be at the Athens International Airport, but before you rush off to frolic in the crystal clear waters that await, you should make time to shake off the long flight and stay one night or two. The Acropolis in Athens, complete with its iconic scenery, indelible past, and winding paths filled with interesting boutiques, authentic restaurants, and bustling ambiance, is a "must-see." 

After a long day of exploring the incredible historical sights, you may stay casual for your evening meal. Arcadia is one of our local favorites for a consistently delicious meal in Plaka; they offer authentic and tasty food with a smile. A must-try: their baklava was the best we had throughout Greece! And if you feel a little like a Hobbit who enjoys "second breakfast", lunch, and dinner, etc., and you desire "second dessert" then make your way to Divinci's in the Plaka for some of Europe's best gelato (speaking from the perspective of an amateur gelato connoisseur).

In keeping with the goal of making this the most romantic experience for you and your love, we suggest ending your fantastic day of historical and cultural exploration by taking a short cab ride (approximately 30 minutes) back to your secluded 5-star hotel in Glyfada, rumored to be "the best" suburb on the Athenian Riviera! One & Only Aesthesis offers Bungalow guests personalized, impeccable service. Michelin-lauded chef Ettore Botrini unveils their restaurant Ora, which consistently provides fantastic food and spectacular sunset views. You will want to take advantage of an opportunity to recover from your travels pampered by the French luxury beauty house Guerlain; they brought their exceptional wellness philosophy to the Athenian Riviera with the first Guerlain Spa in Greece. 

Now that you have been introduced to Greek culture, it's time to continue your adventure to the more remote and idyllic destinations that await. Did you know the country includes 6,000 islands and islets scattered in the Greek Seas?! That is an incredible sum, but don't worry, there are "only" 227 of them that are inhabited. Even better, we have selected only a few favorites to highlight now...

SANTORINI

Although Santorini is overrun by visitors in the high season, it remains a top-rated destination because of its unique combination of geographical beauty, stunning seascapes overlooking the Caldera, and a wide variety of things to see and do.

You will want to take full advantage of this dramatic setting by chartering a private sunset catamaran cruise in the Caldera and surrounding area. We recommend Luxury Catamarans . We sailed on the "Silver Pearl" with Captain Wayne Adonis Dos Passos and his crew, Helen, George, and John- they were incredibly professional and created a memorable experience for us. That said, the sunset views of Santorini are INCREDIBLE, and viewing them from your private vessel is one of the most romantic experiences one can have.

If you and your love like to include a little excitement, you should rent a four-wheeler and drive to the lighthouse to enjoy the incredible island views. If archaeology interests you, visit the Akrotiri Bronze Age archaeological site; it is surprisingly well-preserved and offers a valuable glimpse into everyday life from a bygone era. 

And, if you enjoy the wide world of wine (like we do), you must visit one of our favorite places in Santorini, Santo Winery. They offer wine-pairing tastings overlooking the Caldera, and we have been known to sit, sip, and enjoy this dreamy local for hours at a time. The wines and ambiance are unmatched!

Laokasti restaurant in Oia is hands down the best informal meal we had on the island, and the dining ambiance was charming. Don't miss it! And, if you are looking for a fine dining experience, look at the only French fine dining restaurant on Santorini, La Colline . The famous chef Jerome Coustillas created a delicious menu that blends French, Greek, Mediterranean, and Spanish flavors.

Even though there are many beautiful experiences to be enjoyed in Santorini, you may struggle to leave your love nest, especially if you stay at Villa Bordeaux . 

MILOS

Milos is another volcanic showstopper in the Cyclades island chain, and it is increasing in popularity as travelers look for alternatives to Santorini and Mykonos. The most significant difference is that Milos has one big draw: sandy beaches! Milos is also known for its great food, pretty villages, and unique "sirmata" (colorful boat garages) carved into the natural rock formations. It's a perfect destination for couples who like to explore, rent a car, or ride a 4-wheeler for a few days to seek out the more remote beaches in various corners of the island.

For a memorable stay, the newest premiere luxury hotel on Milos is Domes Resort; each suite at Domes White Coast Milos, Adults Only - Small Luxury Hotels of the World, has a private swimming pool and sea views.

 HYDRA

If you have a little extra time, Hydra's charm has made it a popular spot for a short romantic break – it's just 2 hours by high-speed ferry from Athens, making it easy to combine with the capital or a mainland trip. Hydra Town is notoriously pretty, set around the main harbor like an amphitheater, with its resident braying donkeys, but there is not much to see on the island beyond Hydra town. It is interesting to note Hydra is famously a vehicle-free island, so you won't be disturbed by continual scooter horns or late-night traffic here; a perfect place to pause, relax, and enjoy the local flavors and sights in a peaceful setting.

This brief highlight of a few gems within Greece will help inspire your next adventure; we would be honored to plan that adventure for you, so all you have to do is pack and be present to create memories that will last a lifetime!