Sometimes, you hit the jackpot, and this quaint Tuscan hamlet, Chiusure in Italy, was it! We stumbled on  Borgo Santo , a newly launched group of boutique luxury residences designed with the guests in mind for comfort and pure enjoyment, and to top it off, mind-blowing views. Crete Senese is famous for its distinctive clay and limestone rock formations, formed over 2.5 million years ago. We were sold! Chiusure is a small hamlet about halfway between Buonconvento and Asciano on a road that winds through the Crete Senese in the province of Siena. The area around Chiusure is filled with majestic cypresses and has arguably one of the finest views in all of Tuscany; little did we know at the time of booking. The main excitement over summer is the new Amant program, wherein artists take up residency in this tiny hamlet. Chiusure and Monte Oliveto border the Val d'Orcia National Park, a region that became part of the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2004; the landscape, which has remained largely untouched, continues to inspire artists today. After our short one-hour drive from Montalcino , whisking through the hills of Tuscany, we arrived in this petite village. As we went deeper in, we wondered if there would be a way to manoeuvre our tiny car out; we could nearly touch the bricks from the homes on either side, so we quickly jumped out and found the reception and were assured all was fine. We discovered parking just beyond the square, one of the smallest piazzas we had encountered; we were already in love! After checking in and a quick tour of the stay, including the quintessential Tuscan villa-style pool, our short walk was also a tour of the village, with only 120 residents, and 30 were monks in the local monastery, and 20 of the much-loved residents were all shacked up and cosy in the aged care home on the hill. After strolling past three restaurants, a bar and the local grocery store, also a bar, cafe and restaurant all in one, we knew we had to stay longer! We immediately booked another night! Lunch was enjoyed before siesta time at Osteria Il Pozzo, the restaurant belonging to our residence, which provided the perfect introduction to Chiusure, a small village in Asciano. The restaurant is located in Piazza Del Pozzo, a small piazza full of authenticity, untold tales, and charm. Lunch was followed by an afternoon at the majestic Tuscan pool, savouring the views and the crisp, fresh water for some much-needed exercise! As dinner time approached, we strolled around the village (literally a few minutes walk and we were familiar), enjoying the sunset over the Crete Senesi and a pre-dinner cocktail at Il Bar Di Borgo Santo, admittedly feeling very chuffed and super impressed with the quality of such cocktails, Aviation and Margaritas in a quaint little village, Grazie Mille! Dinner was booked in the other local trattoria, Locanda II Paradiso , owned by a lovely young couple; we were warmly greeted and loved sharing travel and life stories as we sampled one of the best meals we have had throughout the region, think Mama's kitchen with a daily changing menu, based on the freshest purchases from the market for the day! We dined our way through doubling down on some dishes: the perfectly lightly fried zucchini flowers and the butter and sage ravioli, which were mouthwatering! Our dinner was followed by homemade tiramisu and a local Amaro made by monks nearby. Amaro is an Italian bittersweet herbal liqueur commonly consumed as an after-dinner digestif, and it was delish! We quickly booked for the following night, as we wanted to take advantage of it; it was a popular spot for dinner! As we wandered up the cobblestone alley home past all the locals sitting outside their homes, chatting away, the night was filled with laughter, a quiet sense of warmth, and a family atmosphere. The morning was soon upon us, and we couldn't wait to visit the lovely couple, Licia and her hubby, who owned the little jewel of a grocery store called Bar Alimentari - La Bottega di Licia . We sat out with the locals and enjoyed our morning coffee, chatting away in our very limited Italian but full of warmth and smiles; they all filled our hearts with pure joy. We left with a bounce in our step, feeling we had spent the morning with our Nonna and her friends, all wanting to take care of us.  It is a day of relaxation to take advantage of the incredible pool again with endless views over Crete Senesi; this place is genuinely Tuscany in its most truest form. We loved the afternoons as the quietness came over the village during Siesta, whereby everything closes from mid-afternoon. Following another mesmerising sunset over the endless views from our apartment, we couldn't wait to sample more local Tuscan dishes at Locanda II Paradiso again. This time, we sat outside with front-row seats to the golden sun, leaving us for the day over this otherworldly landscape where you feel an instant calmness. The evening was spent trying more delicious dishes and hearing the stories behind them, taking recommendations from the owners. As the darkness of the night was upon us, the lights provided rustic hues over the restaurant, providing us yet again with satisfaction and admiration for this tiny little village of Chiusure. Sunday started out with coffee with our lovely Licia and crew at Bar Alimentari - La Bottega di Licia . Then we were able to squeeze in more food and were all about sharing the love, so we dined back at Osteria Il Pozzo to enjoy a slow, lazy lunch, and were super impressed with our choices. The wine was also a treat, one of the best chardonnays we have enjoyed for a while, all served by a loving and warm team. Borgo Santo was our ideal accommodation in this charming and enchanting village. Not only are you spoiled by the comforts of luxury and beautiful build quality, but the space and furnishings deliver the feeling of being home. You have a selection of excellent restaurants, dining establishments and an incredible bar to enjoy your aperitifs, local wines and proseccos, or a specialty cocktail, along with being on the foothills of one of the most magical views in Italy; what more can you want? We fell in love with this enchanting hamlet called Chiusure; it truly is where you discover Tuscany in its purest form.

Welcome to Montalcino, a Tuscan gem. Just like Monteriggioni , we find ourselves in another of the top 10 most beautiful places in Tuscany. Montalcino is another magical walled city surrounded by, yes, you guessed it, more rolling green hills! You definitely need a car to explore Tuscany, as you can expect a range of dreamy routes through the Val d'Orcia that combine all the rolling hills, vines and hilltop villages to gift you with a mystical atmosphere. Montalcino, Italy We found ourselves in Montalcino; again, thanks to recommendations from our lovely friends, who had raved about this incredible hotel and had even organised a wine tasting for us here. Based on our previous experience with these guys, we were in! Initially, the hotel was fully booked, so we were hunting for something nearby. Fortunately, our instincts had us hold off on booking until the last minute, and success; a room opened up the night before, allowing us to truly enjoy a peaceful and relaxing 24 hours, soaking up the everlasting Tuscan views in a truly luxurious setting. The hotel was divine! Driving into the Brunello wine region felt like a welcome parade, with lines of iconic cypress trees guiding immaculate driveways, framed by stately, picturesque properties. We were super impressed as we embarked on the entrance to our accommodation, the Capanna Suites . We were guided through the immaculate gardens to our suite, where the decor perfectly complemented the Tuscan region, exuding warmth and comfort with endless views of the surrounding Tuscan landscape. Capanna Suites , Montalcino, Italy We couldn't wait to visit the restaurant, Il Passaggio , for lunch. It all starts in a marvellous panoramic setting, where we opted for a terrace table to soak up more hill views! The experience, indeed, was a culinary joy. We loved the fresh enthusiasm from the team, and it had a warm, homely vibe, along with gourmet cuisine to match, and a very well-versed wine list from their extensive cellar. Il Passaggio , Capanna Suites Not only is Capanna Suites located in one of the most well-loved and picturesque places in all of Italy, but it is also where one of the world's finest wines, Brunello di Montalcino, is produced. As a guest, you are also invited to a wine tasting, which was the entire reason for us being here, so we were definitely joining this event following lunch. We enjoyed Antonio, our sommelier, walking us briefly through the history of Montalcino's wines whilst sampling a selection of the wines they produce. Along with a few other guests, the room was filled with warmth, stories and laughter. Capanna Suites, Montalcino Dinner followed by wine tasting, and it was another exemplary dining experience with the beautiful Capanna team, filling our hearts and tummies with joy and delicious local foods! Capanna Suites, View After a sleep reserved for royalty, the quietness and stillness of the region were a blessing, with only the dulcet sounds of nature. We woke up feeling refreshed and ready to embark on another Tuscan-walled city! Breakfast is something we rarely sample, but with the magic and serenity of this place, it was hard to skip, so we enjoyed a hot plate and coffee while savouring the views. Montalcino, the fairytale hilltop town, was perched up on yet another hill, only a five-minute drive, so as we checked out, we stopped into this busy day-tripper destination for a quick stroll and to take in the city's vibe, and we were not the only ones! The parking is always on the edge of the town beyond the walls, and it was like winning the lottery to find a park; Wayne deserves a medal, too, for squeezing the car into the smallest of spaces, but with only one hour to explore, after realising we only had €2 in coins (as the machine only took coins) it would be snug and safe for this time! The town was buzzing with tourists, and it was market day; in these villages, the shops come to you, so you have stalls of shoes, clothes, pharmacies, produce, groceries, and so on, all excellent value to keep the locals satisfied. We strolled around the busy streets, tackling the cobblestoned streets with quite the steep inclines to capture the personality and appreciate the views, before getting back to the snugly parked car and exiting before the parking inspector arrived. You honestly can't go wrong with any walled city in this region; they all continue to be full of beauty, views, ambience and an abundance of dining and drinking establishments.

As we continued our journey through the rolling hills of Tuscany, our next destination took us from Siena to Monteriggioni, a true gem of the region. Often hailed as the "Pearl of Tuscany," this medieval town is impossible to overlook, gracing nearly every blog and write-up on the top 10 must-visit places in Tuscany. Its timeless charm and historical significance make it a destination that beckons travellers worldwide. Monteriggioni, Tuscany We chose this destination due to a recommendation from one of our fave restaurants in Belgrade, Serbia, Gallo Nero . It was on our list and only 25 minutes from Siena, so we found a quaint Tuscany hotel only ten minutes from the centre of Monteriggioni, where we could enjoy a farewell lunch with our dear friends, the Mazzas. Monteriggioni is a walled town surrounded by a circle of perfectly preserved circular walls perched up on a natural hillock, overlooking and accessible only via two gates on either side of the village. It's known for its medieval fortifications and watchtowers, and the castle walls offer views of the surrounding Chianti region. It was built by the Sienese in 1214–19 as a front line in their wars against Florence. Upon checking in to our chosen hotel, it was exactly what we had hoped for a traditional and cosy stay with the warmest hosts. Casalta Hotel is located in the heart of Strove, a hamlet of Monteriggioni, a small village of Lombard origins, which over time became a point of passage for pilgrims on the Via Francigena. Strove has suggestive views of the Tuscan countryside, the Via Francigena and the Borgo and has nearly 150 residents. We arrived for lunch at Le Torri Monteriggioni , a ristorante also recommended by our friends from Belgrade. It was perfect; we were seated on the cosy terrace, being hugged by the leafy green vines. We enjoyed a slow lunch served by the kindest and friendliest team over more exquisite homemade Tuscan dishes whilst savouring the wines from Tuscany. After lunch, we explored the pearl of Tuscany and relished the history and what went on within these walls hundreds of years ago, capturing some precious memories of our few days together. We weren't quite ready to leave this quaint place, so the afternoon was spent hiding away in a local bar with the obligatory Campari spritz, talking about life and sharing moments full of laughter. The sun was setting, so it was time to bid our dear family farewell, and we took a trip topless through the rolling hills of Tuscany with the backdrop of a pink sky to appreciate this magical part of the world, followed by an authentic and delicious pizza in a nearby village surrounded by the friendly locals choosing to do the same. Tuscan Sunsets Monteriggioni is definitely one of the must-visits on your Tuscan adventures and is worthy of the pearl title. Thank you, Gallo Nero , for the recommendations and our dear Mazzas for sharing part of their family vacay with us.

Did someone say let's spend a week in Tuscany? Yes, please! We took an easy flight from Palermo, Sicily, to Pisa to pick up our hire car from Sixt for the week. The best advice we were given was to hire a car when visiting Tuscany, not to take the risk and rely on public or private transport, and our trusty travel advisers were spot on. You must have your own wheels if you want to get lost in Tuscany's rolling hills and vines. Piazza del Campo, Siena, Italy Our first Tuscan destination was a 90-minute drive from Pisa to Siena, where we were reunited with our very dear clients and friends from NSW, Australia. The family vacay over the past few months has been an extensive tour of Italy, visiting family and sightseeing, and we were lucky enough to reserve a few days in their hectic schedule whilst in Siena. As you approach Siena, you drive through these tiny, tight, winding roads bordered by old brick stone walls, and then Siena, one of Italy's famed medieval cities, appears. Siena is like stepping back in time with its medieval architecture, and the city is tucked away behind the gates, sitting over three hills with its heart the vast Piazza del Campo, one of the best squares we have experienced, also known worldwide for the famous Palio run (google this, it's so cool), a horse race run around the piazza two times every summer, gutted we had missed it by a few weeks. Movie audiences worldwide can see Siena and the Palio in the James Bond movie  Quantum of Solace . Arriving in Siena, Italy With all walled cities, you generally need to park on the perimeter just outside the walls, so we secured our little mini in the car park for a few days (costing €70 for 43 hours). We set out on foot, congratulating ourselves for travelling with check-in bags only for four weeks! There are 7 Unesco World Heritage sites in Tuscany, and the Siena historic centre is one of them. We quickly settled into our charming Airbnb , perfectly nestled just minutes from the iconic Piazza del Campo, while offering breathtaking, uninterrupted views of the city and surrounding hills—it truly felt like the best of both worlds. The modern comfort of our cosy stay, combined with a magical rooftop overlooking Siena, paired perfectly with the authentic medieval atmosphere that greeted us right at our doorstep. A short climb up a couple of easy flights of stairs led us to a beautifully furnished, vibrant home filled with natural light, every detail curated to make the space warm and inviting. Once we were settled, it was time to meet up with our friends and the fam for pre-dinner drinks in the piazza, which was ideal for introducing us to Siena and its infectious energy. It's also home to a university, making it a vibrant city of young people. It was an evening of sharing travel stories, laughter, moments and incredible Italian vino and food at Enoteca I Terzi . All feeling blessed, we shared this adventure and created magical memories in beautiful Siena in Tuscany. With two nights in Siena, we had a full day to explore this gothic, enchanting city, so we were up early, hitting the cobblestoned streets for coffee. We found a local coffee shop,  Meet Life Cafe , with the most welcoming owner; of course, the coffee was excellent. We were back within the hour for the next one. This place soon became our go-to cafe for the next few days, and the owner loved teaching us some Italiano, too. We spent the afternoon enjoying a casual lunch in a quaint bistro called Du Cose da Berna , owned by a lovely young couple with their little girl insisting on helping them out by carrying plates to customers, and it was adorable! The restaurant was everything you had hoped for: fresh pasta cooked al dente with uncomplicated ingredients, a fantastic vino selection, and, it goes without saying, everyone's favourite dessert - Tiramisu! We followed this with a couple of local Amaros in the piazza, savouring the atmosphere and beautiful company, and making plans for a farewell lunch in a nearby Tuscan village the next day. Siena is one for the must-visit list on your Italian adventures through the rolling hills of Tuscany. We also recommend staying for a night or two, as you capture the essence once all the day-trippers have moved on and experience the authenticity of the city and the locals' warmth.

Our visit to the Sicilian town of Trapani spanned a few delightful days where we reunited with friends. It was a heartwarming experience to reconvene just a month after we travelled in Spain , exploring Trapani over shared meals and laughter. As enthusiasts of good food, we relished every culinary encounter together. Highlighting our stay was an authentic farm experience with Caliafarm in Salemi-Posillesi, our friends discovered approximately 40 minutes from Trapani. We spent an enchanting evening with a local family on their farm, where we tried our hands at cooking and indulged in wine tasting—a task Mama graciously managed while involving us to enhance our engagement. The evening was magical, one we would do again in a heartbeat! Do you know how we all dream of dining under the terraced vines and enjoying a home-cooked Italian meal at a table full of family and friends in the Italian countryside? Well, our dream became a reality in Sicily. It all started with a drive through the Sicilian countryside, dotted with rolling hills and rows and rows of vines, olive groves, and dilapidated stone structures bordering the roadside, to then arrive at a quaint and traditional Italian village, where we stopped in for an aperitif before embarking on our farm dinner experience. We all felt apprehensive, not knowing what the night would bring, but we were ready and excited for a fun adventure. All we knew was we were going to a farm to enjoy some wine tasting while we prepared our evening meal, unsure if we were to partake in the meal prep, thinking this might not end well, or we would be onlookers and enjoy the fruits of the expert's labours. Our hosts for the evening arrived, and we followed them to their home, a quintessential Italian farm five minutes from the village. The sun was beginning to set for the day, so first on the agenda was a stroll through the vegetable garden with the gorgeous Franca and Franco, whom we soon were calling Mama and Papa and the darling Irene, who had stolen the heart of their son Nico who is responsible for designing this authentic Italian farm experience. A Farm Experience in Trapani Italy We wandered through their garden, a treasure trove of fresh produce to retrieve the freshest ingredients for dinner, whilst Franca would have us all sample almonds from the trees as we walked through the garden. As we approached the terrace with baskets of goodies, Alessandra, our lovely sommelier for the evening, greeted us with a sparkling white wine to kickstart our wine tasting experience. Later, aboard a vintage blue combi van it even had a bed and kitchen sink in the back, we sipped our glasses en route to the Tenute Mokarta a nearby winery, where Franco also provides his grapes for wine production where we enjoyed a spectacular sunset that bathed the vineyard in pastel hues, providing a perfect backdrop for photographs. The sunset was a pure gift. A Farm Experience in Trapani Italy The wine tasting continued as we relaxed back in the lounges on the grassy landings with beautiful views over the countryside of Sicily, getting lost in conversation and laughter. Following the mesmerising sunset, we were back on the fun farm bus bound for the farm for our next experience segment, preparing pasta and enjoying a beautifully home-cooked meal. First up was pasta making. Mama kicked it off by rolling and cutting the pasta sheets. We all had a few attempts to design the local pasta shape and were a little concerned about the quality, but fortunately, Mama had a stash she had prepared earlier for the main event! Following pasta making, we watched over Mama as she prepared our local Sicilian dessert, the Cannoli shells; with the help of Papa eagerly waiting to add the white wine to blend the ingredients, we all looked on with an affectionate admiration of the beautiful couple, knowing well who was boss in the marriage - go, Mama!! Although Papa was so precious, the language barrier between us all did not slow any of us down. The evening continued to be filled with laughter, acknowledgement and a pure understanding of how we all felt about sharing this experience. A Farm Experience in Trapani Italy The food started to roll out, and we were all in heaven, trying all the local dishes and wines over the next few hours; you did not go hungry. After the antipasti, the delicious pasta was served, followed by Polpette (delicious meatballs) and the final event, the Cannoli. Now that the dough had rested, it was time to roll, cut, shape, and immerse it in hot oil. Once the shells were cooled, they were filled with the ricotta spread dipped in Pistachios, which we all found some extra space in our bellies to enjoy and devour the best and freshest Cannoli we have had the pleasure to experience. Coffee and nightcaps were delivered, and it was time to close the evening. We all felt incredibly grateful for fulfilling a lifelong dream, an evening around the table beneath the vines, full of laughter, stories shared, authentic Italian cuisine, vino and most importantly, friends. We were all now saddened to leave each other's company. Hugs and kisses to our new family and friends, and our trusty driver delivered us home safely. Our friends continue to outdo themselves as professional memory makers; this will remain one of the most magical and heartfelt evenings of a lifetime. Trapani is positioned on Sicily's crescent-shaped western coast and is home to about 70,000 residents. Trapani captivates with its charming old city filled with stunning architecture, tempting one to pause frequently in awe as they meander through its streets. This town also serves as the gateway to the exquisite Egadi Islands. Our Airbnb in Trapani ' Gonia Residence Appartment Formica ' offered the perfect blend of modern luxury and authentic Sicilian charm, situated in a picturesque setting at the heart of local life. The welcoming entrance, adorned with bright flowers and cozy seating, set the tone for our stay. Adjacent to our Airbnb, Gennaio Bistrot 30  provided an outstanding dining experience with an impressive wine selection, compelling us to visit twice during our stay. Its prime location allowed convenient access to breathtaking seaside sunsets and the vibrant city centre, with its array of restaurants and bars, making our time in Trapani truly unforgettable. Trapani Italy

Catching up with friends halfway across the world always seems like a distant dream—one of those "we should do this" ideas that rarely materialise. But 2023 was all about turning dreams into reality. So, when our friends Tien & Pete, fresh from celebrating Pete's 60th in San Sebastian , hinted they'd be in Sicily in early September, we jumped to meet them there before continuing our Italian adventure to Tuscany. Our rendezvous was planned for later in the week, granting us the perfect excuse to explore a new corner of Sicily—a region we barely touched during a brief stop in Palermo about five years ago on a cruise. Castellammare del Golfo Trapani Province Eager for coastal charm, we scoured for the ideal village and accommodation, finally setting our hearts on Castellammare del Golfo in the Trapani Province. Its name, translating to "The Sea Fortress on the Gulf," hinted at the medieval majesty awaiting us, nestled between sea and mountains, with the historic fortress cradling the town. Choosing a seaside stay in the old town, we landed at Hotel Cetarium . It delivered an authentic vibe and prime location we had hoped for, surrounded by the picturesque harmony of mountains, sea, and medieval architecture. The waterfront promenade, adorned with various dining and bar options, boasted views of the lively marina, a hotspot for daily sea expeditions. Castellammare del Golfo Trapani Province Castellammare del Golfo Trapani Province Our palates, eager for a taste of Italy, were treated to the renowned Sicilian cuisine. With Castellammare del Golfo's seafaring legacy, seafood dishes were a given, but the exceptional land-based fare at places like Rosmarina truly stole our hearts. Their welcoming service, modern decor, and beautifully plated dishes made even a simple dessert stop a memorable experience. Castellammare del Golfo Trapani Province Luxor , another gem, served excellent pizzas and Italian classics against the backdrop of stunning sunsets. The service was excellent and full of energy, too. Castellammare del Golfo Trapani Province As the village buzzed to life each evening, the golden hour bathed everything in a warm glow, perfect for enjoying alfresco dining and aperitifs. This was the rhythm of our days—relaxing, reconnecting, and immersing in the new delights of Italy, gearing up for the adventures that awaited us with friends old and new. We enjoyed relaxing  in Castellammare del Golfo for a few days and kickstarting our travel groove of exploring new parts of Italy. We were excited about the month ahead and reconnecting with our friends.

From the cobbled streets of Spain to the romantic boulevards of France , our three-week journey culminated in the timeless city of Paris. As we embarked on our seventh visit to this city of lights, fashion, and love, Paris proved its mastery in enchantment, stealing yet another piece of our hearts and leaving us in awe of its ceaseless wonders. This time, we found our haven in the charming Montmartre area at the lovely Hotel Le Ballu , a recently renovated boutique hotel in the 9th arrondissement. Its tranquil courtyard, reminiscent of 1960s Eastern European architecture, restaurant serving delicious bites, and spacious rooms offered a perfect oasis amid the vibrant city bustle, enabling us to explore another enchanting Paris neighbourhood. Paris was a memorable trip; our reunions and new encounters marked our stay with friends from a 60th birthday celebration in San Sebastian . Moreover, unexpectedly, our paths crossed with Melbourne friends Matt and his gorgeous wife Oudavanh. It is always special when connecting with friends in faraway places. It is hard to describe, but it is a magical feeling you all experience being together and seizing the moments of travelling. It truly warms your heart. We spent a few days hitting the pavement with coffees and croissants in hand and enjoying slow, lazy lunches at places we have previously visited, including  Café de l'Esplanade , which we love, and some new finds. One evening, we caught up with our dear friends Mario and Nev, and we enjoyed an evening of laughter, complete with delectable food, wine, and cocktails in Little Red Door , a hidden-away gem, one of the World's 50 Best Bars. We also met the charming Chanie. Another evening of magic together! With three visits to Paris over the previous 12 months, the level of service has been exceptional, the food salivating, and, of course, the wine—no complaints! The city was also significantly cleaner in preparation for the Olympics than it had been historically. We spent our final day revisiting a restaurant, Restaurant Le Square Trousseau , which we enjoyed in Paris whilst there, celebrating my 40th. Its cosy ambience and playful chalk-and-paper tablecloths reignited our creative spirits in a familiar yet always refreshing setting. Our Uber driver spoiled us with a little memento of Paris as we jumped out: an Eiffel Tower keyring! Our time soon ended, but we know it won't be the last visit. There are still too many places to experience and restaurants to try, and we still need to get to the Louvre!! One day, I promise, Wayne! Three weeks of travel bliss and so many moments with old and new friends from Spain through France that we will treasure as we return to our beloved Belgrade for a few weeks to recover and prepare for the next adventure through Italy !

After soaking in the fairytale magic of Saint-Émilion , our journey took us to Bordeaux, a vibrant city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and elegance. A few nights here allowed us to experience its bustling atmosphere in a city of 100,000 residents and catch up on work. We began our Bordeaux adventure by returning our speedy electric car and checking into our Airbnb —a modern gem nestled within a grand mansion-like building near the Jardin Public de Bordeaux, one of the city's most beautiful parks. This location proved ideal, offering daily opportunities for morning strolls and peaceful breaks amidst lush greenery. Hungry from our travels, our first stop was at the Italian restaurant Lasagne , a spot that does exactly what its name promises: serves lasagna—and only lasagna. It didn’t disappoint! The portions were hearty, and one serving was more than sufficient to satiate our cravings. Bordeaux is a city best explored on foot, and its beauty is everywhere—from towering church steeples to magnificent historic buildings at every turn. Although the city is lively and popular among tourists, we intentionally kept some distance from the busy tourist areas to immerse ourselves in hidden gems and local spots. Among our discoveries were two exceptional cocktail bars: La Comtesse and Motto bar , both stylish bars with expertly crafted cocktails and a laid-back vibe, perfectly located, with friendly staff. Both bars we recommend delivering on ambience, making them ideal places to slip into the rhythm of the local scene. Dining in Bordeaux was a mixed bag - with Bordeaux's reputation for outstanding cuisine, we hoped to experience its celebrated dining scene, but found it tricky to secure reservations. Many top-rated spots were either fully booked months in advance or open only during evenings. Nonetheless, we managed a few casual meals, including a pleasant stop at La Villa Tourny , a charming brasserie with a welcoming atmosphere. While other dining experiences were less memorable, we strongly recommend planning ahead and booking well before your visit to truly appreciate Bordeaux’s culinary delights. On our final night in Bordeaux, we decided to treat ourselves to a stay at Marty Hotel Bordeaux, Tapestry Collection by Hilton . This boutique hotel, newly opened, offered a delightful experience—modern, spacious rooms with quirky touches and a warm, inviting design that felt both luxurious and fun. Our time in Bordeaux—and the surrounding wine-making regions of France—has only deepened our love for this country. From Saint-Émilion’s fairytale charm to Bordeaux’s vibrant city vibe, each destination added its own unique flair to our journey. We’re already eager to plan future adventures exploring even more of France's stunning regions!

Saint-Émilion is like something out of a fairytale! This charming, world-renowned wine-making village in France can be summed up in one word: enchanting! Saint-Émilion is nestled within petite stone walls, surrounded by lush green hills and expansive vineyards; it's a genuine escape from the everyday. By night, Saint-Émilion is a quiet, peaceful village home to just over 2000 residents. But as dawn breaks, it transforms, welcoming three times its visitor population each day. This surge is no surprise, as travellers from near and far are drawn to its magical atmosphere, making it the most sought-after destination in the region. Join us as we delve deeper into the allure of Saint-Émilion, exploring the timeless charm that makes this village a true fairytale getaway. To secure a parking spot near the city gates, arriving early is essential, as minimal traffic is allowed, leaving the streets primarily clear for visitors. We were eager to immerse ourselves in the heart of the town, surrounded by its historic village landscape and the timeless vistas of the vineyards. We discovered Logis des Cordeliers , an 18th-century stone house in the heart of Saint-Émilion. A charming, original home offering a grand room with views not just of the church spire and the fort but also unmatched views of Saint-Émilion, perfect for capturing the golden hour. With two nights booked, we fully immersed ourselves in the fairytale village. The first stop was a newly opened wine bar called Wine Bar à Saint-Emilion by Vignobles et Châteaux . Upon entering, we were warmly greeted by the lovely team and were soon perched up on a window seat with a unique view of the cobblestone alleys and tucked away from the bustling tourist traffic, enjoying a grand cru champagne and sampling one of the best wines we have ever had, a Chassagne Montrachet… thank you, Marie, for spoiling us (€500 a bottle) and for the very insightful French wine knowledge you shared with us. Following the perfect introduction, we strolled through the cobblestone alleys. We were soon sampling more delectable Grand Cru at Sous La Robe , another beautiful wine bar tucked up amongst the sandstone alleys. The lads were full of energy and smiles; we couldn’t pass up the fantastic cheese selection when in France! We loved the bar and the local vibe it presents, a nice escape from the intensity of the visitors. The evening saw us sneak into an overfilled pizzeria, where we were fortunate to score a takeaway pizza. However, they were initially reluctant due to the heavy backlog, but the waitress was incredibly kind and took pity upon us, and snuck our order through!! Thank you. If visiting Saint-Émilion, don’t risk your dining experiences. Be sure to book well in advance; the little village struggles to cater for all, and everything is well and truly booked out each night. Sunday morning, we took to the pleasant, sleepy streets to explore the town's magic before the day-trippers arrived at 11 am; it was peaceful and presented us with the true beauty of this stunning village. We didn’t take lunch by chance; we booked using our trusty Michelin Guide app, L’Huitrier Pie , a quaint sandstone dining establishment with a relaxing patio to enjoy the afternoon. The sun was shining just enough, and we spent the day taking advantage of reading the never-ending wine lists, accompanied by a tasting menu with dishes that excited the palate, all served by the most passionate and enthusiastic staff. We were impressed again and would be back here in a heartbeat! Following our lunch and copious amounts of wine, where to next, of course, a visit to our new favourite wine bar we visited upon arriving to farewell our new friends and enjoy the golden hour on their patio, basking in our complete awe of Saint-Émilion and feeling grateful to our dear friends for the recommendation whilst we were in Spain. The beauty of not planning while travelling is that you always have the opportunity to change your destinations at the last minute. The evening was spent watching the sunset as golden hour was upon us from our room to capture those magical moments of the fairytale village and all the goodness it holds. Before hitting the road on Monday morning, we took advantage of strolling the peaceful streets and loved the quietness; it was the perfect time with a coffee in hand to continue making memories and taking them home with us. Saint-Émilion, if it isn’t on your list, we highly recommend an escape to this fairytale village. We hardly scratched the surface; it is steeped in history with centuries-old underground churches, buildings and homes and an abundance of wineries, wine bars, cellars and world-class dining establishments all moments away!

We finally made it to the famed wine-growing region of Bordeaux in southwestern France, a destination that has been on our travel list for some time, given our passion for wine. When Wayne and I chatted about travel before embarking on this endless journey around the world, a château in the south of France was always on our list. Coming from Bayonne , it was a simple two-hour train trip to Bordeaux, where we were to pick up our little electric car to enjoy the region for a week. With only the first few nights booked, the world was our oyster, well, at least Southwestern France in this case. We had found a beautiful stay in a winery on Airbnb ; it ticked all our boxes, and we booked three nights to enjoy the peaceful nature and relax among the vines while sipping vino. Although not everything was what it seemed, upon arriving, we wandered the winery, and there was not a soul in sight, so we made a call, and on the second call, she picked up. The owner was on vacation and would send the maid to open up and check us in. Still, after expressing our disappointment in the experience and with little faith that it would deliver what we had been expecting, we felt we would have to fend for ourselves, so we politely declined and told her we would not be staying. Fortunately, Airbnb came to the rescue once again and fully refunded us. As experts in sourcing accommodation, we were back searching for the perfect place and instantly booked a château that was actually open and even had a restaurant. Which we highly doubt our previous stay had, so we were back on the road, whizzing past the beautiful green vineyards. As we approached Château Fage La Maison des Vignes, our moods were lighter and smiles brimming; we found it! Château Fage was precisely what we had been hoping for: a beautiful, pristine 4-star hotel situated between Bordeaux and Saint-Émilion, nestled among lush green vines and offering views across the meadows, with castles in the distance. We soon increased our number of nights to three, as this place needed to be enjoyed. On our first night, we booked a table at the restaurant for a leisurely dinner, and the wine and food reminded us of why we love France; we even started with a cheese plate. This dining order confused the wait staff, but they soon succumbed to our dining style, and we all enjoyed the evening. Following a relaxing few days absorbing the tranquillity of Château Fage, we booked into a Michelin-recommended ' Lune Restaurant ' in a nearby commune called Vayres in the Haute-Vienne department, Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Inhabitants are known as Vayrois in French. We eagerly booked an Uber and soon found ourselves in a quaint French town, surrounded by tiny streets, beautiful old buildings, monuments scattered throughout the village, and even a winery perched on a hill in the centre. We arrived at Lune Restaurant and, again, were impressed with the Michelin Guide app; it rarely disappoints. The restaurant is housed in an old inn on the banks of the Dordogne, a former Gallo-Roman site. The restaurant has a charm; it feels like a cosy country house. You can feel the farmhouse atmosphere with the beautifully crafted long wooden centre table, and all the finishing touches and table decorations complement the modern country vibe. We settled in for an afternoon of devouring culinary surprises accompanied by wines worthy of five stars. The food melted in your mouth, surprisingly clean for French cuisine; we are loving this style. The service was delightful, and each and every dish was faultless. Thank you, Lune Restaurant, for a very memorable slow lunch. Following our fabulous lunch, we strolled through the quaint village, enjoyed the small-town vibe, and captured some candid photos to remind us of our time in Vayres. Our three nights at Château Fage soon came to an end, leaving us feeling bittersweet about leaving, as it was indeed perfect. However, our next destination was a weekend in Saint-Émilion, so we soon overcame this feeling. Our final morning was spent searching for a salon to smarten up the hairstyle, and we found a charming old 13th-century bastide town called Libourne. It is on the confluence of the Dordogne and Isle Rivers. We strolled around, taking in the weekend vibes, and loved how the narrow streets with cobbled stones, amidst the city square, were sprinkled with shimmering decorations. It was great to explore more of the region; we felt blessed as we drove towards Saint-Émilion that afternoon and were able to experience many stunning villages, all surrounded by overwhelming châteaux with sweeping views and grounds, all within a short distance of each other - some sleepy and some full of vibrancy.