After spending 2 days in the ancient cave city of Matera (read about this in part 1, which covers the first few days of our Puglia trip), we headed south to explore the quiet hilltop towns and coastal landscapes of Italy’s heel. While Matera is all about history and atmosphere, Puglia is about slowing down: swimming in turquoise grottos, wandering…
Read the PostA few years ago, I spent a week town-hopping through Puglia and fell in love with how undiscovered this corner of Italy still felt. When planning my return to Southern Italy, I knew I wanted to start with a bucket list stay in one of Matera’s ancient cave dwellings. This two-part guide shares my complete week in Southern Italy —…
Read the PostLast updated: January 2026 This guide is for anyone planning time in Athens, whether it’s your first visit, a return trip, or a stopover before heading to the Greek Islands and beyond. If you’re heading to the Greek Islands before or after Athens, don’t miss my Greek Islands Digital Guide which includes day-by-day itineraries, ferry tips, curated stays, and recommended…
Read the PostUpdated for 2026 with current hotel recommendations, restaurants, and travel tips. Folegandros, Greece is a hidden gem conveniently close to Santorini yet wonderfully less visited. After an attempt at visiting this island a few years back (in which we ended up island hopping to Naxos instead), we finally made it to stay at the beachfront boutique hotel I’d been eyeing…
Read the PostThis post was last updated on September 17, 2025. After years of admiring French antiques from afar, my girlfriend and I finally made our way to Paris this March to experience the legendary Foire de Chatou and other Parisian antique markets. We set out with a mission: to find special pieces for our homes while experiencing the authentic charm of…
Read the PostUpdated for 2026. After months of nonstop travel since leaving Amsterdam in July, we finally made it to Greece! With a week in Paros already booked for September, we added Milos to our itinerary to celebrate our 1-year wedding anniversary. Here’s everything you need to know about our experience Greek island hopping in the idyllic Cyclades islands. First Things First:…
Read the PostWhether you’ve traveled to the Mediterranean or are daydreaming of a trip there soon, the island of Mykonos is worth grabbing a swimsuit and boarding the next plane to Greece for. Like every Greek Island, Mykonos has its own unique charm that sets it apart from the rest. The colorful walking streets and vibrant energy of locals and visitors will make…
Read the PostUpdated for 2026 with additional island & hotel recommendations, travel tips and planning advice. Summer is right around the corner and it seems the Greek Islands are on everyone’s radar! One of the most common questions I’m receiving lately is how to choose which Greek Island to visit. It’s important to note that there are actually over 6,000 Greek Islands,…
Read the PostSantorini is truly one of the most breathtaking destinations in Greece. As a volcanic caldera with a unique half-moon shape, the island offers stunning panoramic views and countless photo opportunities. The iconic whitewashed cave houses, perched high above the Aegean Sea, create an unforgettable backdrop. Beyond the views, Santorini’s charm extends to its traditional tavernas, where you can savor fresh,…
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