It’s hard to believe we are now in 2025 and it has been over a year since I last posted. I knew that 2024 was not going to be filled with travel like years past and for a few reasons. To start, I really focused my travel planning on an Italian family getaway which you are about to read more about! And the 2nd reason is the new addition to our family, dachshund puppy Remy! Luckily, my cousin Jack and Aunt Jerri graciously offered to watch the little guy while we were away on this grand adventure.

So in October, my Mom, Darold, Jason and I flew to Venice. I used my points for business class which was such a treat! We arrived in the evening and getting a water taxi to our Airbnb was quite the ordeal. But the next day we were greeted with sunshine and fought off our jetlag by exploring the city’s quaint canals. This was my 2nd time in Venice but it still feels like a magical movie set.

We walked to Piazza San Marco, toured the Doge Palace and took a gondola ride. Classic Venice. We also took a boat ride to Murano, and simply spent time together on our terrace eating cheese and drinking wine. We couldn’t have asked for a better stay.

Lake Como was next on our itinerary and my Uncle Bill joined us for this part of the trip. We stayed in Bellagio, a picture perfect lakeside village. We did a lot of walking and shopping, but also a cruise on the lake to visit the famous Villa del Balbianello. The stunning scenery did not disappoint.

Next we drove to Tuscany and rented a lovely villa in Barberino Val d’Elsa. Here we took a cooking class, played cards and relaxed while admiring the countryside.

We couldn’t miss tasting the amazing wine in the region, Chianti Classico. We did a private tour at Castello della Paneretta, who have been producing wine in this beautiful location since 1596.

Thanks to my family for such a special time and wonderful memories. Jason might deserve the most thanks of all, for driving this crew around Italy! 🙂

Categories: TravelTags: Europe, Italy, photography, Travel