Nan Knows Travel

08/31/2026

Tasting two fine white Burgundy wines at The Little Nell in Aspen.
Naturally, I launched a rigorous clinical trial focused on the cardiovascular, emotional, and spiritual health benefits of fine wine—administered simultaneously, because @ one glass is no longer considered a serious dosage. 😂. The winner the glass on the right.

Defaix Vaudésir Grand Cru

08/27/2026

Love them bears bears everywhere in Aspen Colorado.
Aspen

08/26/2026

Aspen in summer may be one of travel’s best-kept secrets.
Think cool mountain air, spectacular scenery, wildflowers, fabulous restaurants, music, hiking and outdoor dining.
Lunch at The Little Nell or Hotel Jerome, dinner at Ajax Tavern, Sant Ambroeus, Clark’s or White Elephant, followed by an evening at the Aspen Music Festival. Tough assignment, but someone has to do it.
Then there’s the wildlife. One morning, a very large bear casually strolled in front of the home where we were staying—as if he, too, had dinner reservations. Add deer and foxes, and you quickly realize Aspen’s farm-to-table scene has some local competition.
From a travel advisor’s perspective, Aspen delivers that rare combination of nature, activity and serious luxury—all without leaving the USA.
Come for the mountains, stay for the lifestyle…and whatever you do, guard your picnic basket.

08/18/2026

This week we’ll be suited up like glamorous yellow astronauts. Bees will work hard buzzing in sync producing honey at an educational hands-on beekeeping tour at a farm in Colorado. Looks like the stylish beehive hairdos could qualify as luxury condos for queen bees.

06/14/2026

This is why Italy will always be Italy.
Where else can your day begin with a nearly 2,000-year-old Colosseum still standing after emperors, gladiators, earthquakes nearly ruined it. Now it is ruins. “Is this where Russell Crowe worked?” And imagine hearing Pope Leo pray the Sunday Angelus, his traditional noon prayer and address from St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican.
My special clients have spent the few weeks traveling from Venice to Sicily to Rome, and their celebrity sightings have been better than the Oscars.
First, Helen Mirren in Taormina, Sicily, casually getting out of her car waving to them like a queen. Hmm or was she shooing them off? Ancient ruins, movie royalty, and the Pope — all before hotel check-in. Italy is not just a destination. It is a full production of history, beauty, food, faith, drama, celebrities, espresso, and moments you could never plan if you tried.

06/05/2026

Your sanctuary at sea awaits. Step aboard Crystal for elegant evenings, world-class dining, and unforgettable destinations—where the crew knows you by name. Explore the voyage of a lifetime here: https://inspires.to/experiences/the-crystal-experience-the-voyage-of-a-lifetime-pj708k

Welcome to your sanctuary at sea

06/05/2026

Breathless views

06/05/2026

Santorini with a side of cardio…

The Private Cave Pool Suite at Andronis Boutique Hotel may be one of the most romantic suites in Greece. Private pool, jaw-dropping caldera views, spectacular sunsets from bed, and the kind of setting that honeymooners and anniversary couples dream about.
One small detail. Reaching the Cave Pool Suite required descending about 72 steps. I considered it a complimentary fitness program. Getting back up was my cardio workout for the day and possibly the week.
But trust me, once you’re soaking in your private cave pool overlooking the caldera, you’ll decide those 72 steps were the best investment you made all vacation.
I highly recommend this hotel.
Santorini is where the views take your breath away and the stairs and steps throughout the island finish the job.

06/01/2026

What do you get when a world-class art collection, a glamorous neoclassical mansion, and Acropolis Parthenon view share the same address? The Dolli. With Picasso and Cocteau art displayed as naturally as fresh flowers, this unique Athens hotel creates a stay that leaves you wondering whether you stepped into a hotel or into the most beautiful dream Athens has to offer.

05/30/2026

Crystal Had Me at Butter

My last Crystal cruise was more than a decade ago, so I boarded with curiosity and high expectations. I’m happy to report that Crystal Serenity exceeded them.
In fact, Crystal had me at La Conviette butter. That may sound like an unusual measure of luxury, but seasoned travelers know the little things tell the story. Crystal serves rich, creamy La Conviette butter from Normandy, and after one bite I thought, Someone here understands quality. My theory has always been that if a company invests in exceptional butter, they’re probably investing in exceptional ingredients everywhere else.
The dining was excellent in every restaurant, the service warm and attentive, and the ship impeccably maintained. One evening at Osteria d’Ovidio, we splurged on a beautifully aged Pio Cesare Barolo, expertly decanted and served in magnificent stemware. The presentation was so grand I wasn’t sure whether to drink the wine or stand and applaud it.

I can confidently say Crystal has reclaimed its place among the very very best.