International Summer Travel Guide
If you're dreaming of sun-soaked coastlines, timeless charm, and unforgettable luxury this summer, consider this your passport to the most iconic destinations across Europe and the Caribbean. I’ve rounded up my favorite escapes that promise equal parts relaxation and indulgence. Whether you’re sipping spritzes at a cliffside villa in Lake Como or wandering lavender fields in Aix-en-Provence, each of these handpicked stays delivers unmatched beauty, style, and soul. Let’s dive into the ultimate summer travel guide—because your dream itinerary starts here.
Lake Como
There’s something poetic about Lake Como—timeless and still, yet brimming with stories. In The Charterhouse of Parma, Stendhal captures it perfectly: as the church bells echo across the water, a character is struck with a sudden clarity—“Don’t resist the happiness that is coming to meet you!”.
Lake Como is especially magical in the summer, when warm breezes carry the scent of blooming gardens, the water sparkles in the afternoon sun, and the rhythm of daily life slows to a luxurious pace. It’s the season for alfresco dinners, long boat rides, and dips in the lake, all set against a backdrop of mountains and villas. Whether you're seeking romance, relaxation, or a touch of old-world glamour, summer on Lake Como offers an unforgettable escape into la dolce vita.
Where to Stay: Passalacqua
Set on sun-drenched grounds that catch golden light from dawn till dusk, Passalacqua is more than just a stay—it’s a full immersion into the beauty and rhythm of the lake. Days here begin with serene views across glacier-carved waters and often unfold with private boat excursions to Bellagio, the romantic gardens of Villa del Balbaniello, or the charming cobblestone alleys of Varenna. The estate’s elegance extends below the surface too—literally—with an 18th-century gallery beneath the gardens that now houses a tranquil spa and indoor pool.
Lounge By the Pool
There’s more than a dash of la dolce vita in Passalacqua’s lake-view pool. Perched on a garden terrace just below the main villa and framed by ancient climbing roses and a majestic bay tree, this is where elegance meets effortless summer bliss. If Slim Aarons were still capturing the world’s most glamorous getaways, you’d likely find his lens fixed here—on sun-kissed guests reclining beneath lily-petal parasols, sipping something chilled, and soaking in the magic of Lake Como.
Whether you're swimming sporty laps or floating through a leisurely dip, the pool is a true showpiece, marrying old-world charm with vibrant, joyful design. Just steps away, the Winter Garden—a former greenhouse turned all-day bar—offers a stylish retreat curated by JJ Martin of La DoubleJ. Her flair for bold color and vintage charm transforms the space into a whimsical escape, perfect for post-swim cocktails or a shaded pause between sun-drenched moments.
Embrace the Art of Villeggiatura
More than just a vacation, villeggiatura is a state of mind—one that invites you to slow down, indulge your curiosities, and live fully in the moment. At Passalacqua, each day unfolds with purpose or with pleasant aimlessness—your choice. Whether you’re lounging under magnolia trees or sailing across the lake at golden hour, every experience is designed to restore and inspire.
Here’s just a taste of what a day at Passalacqua might include:
Daily activities like guided walking tours of Moltrasio or wine and cheese tastings with an in-house sommelier
Cooking lessons with the villa’s chef in an open kitchen filled with laughter and the scent of fresh herbs
Bocce, tennis, or board games in charming, thoughtfully designed spaces
Open-air cinema nights featuring classic films under the stars
Private boat excursions aboard vintage or modern motor launches—sunset cruises, lakeside village hopping, or a romantic “chic-nic” on the water
Outdoor yoga, herb garden strolls, and Vespa rides through winding hillside lanes
Visits to nearby towns and hidden gems, from historic villas to gelato stops and opera houses
This is Lake Como living at its finest—slow, beautiful, and rich in soul.
Positano
Clinging to the cliffs of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Positano is the definition of effortless glamour—where vibrant bougainvillea spills over pastel facades and the scent of lemon trees mingles with sea breeze.
At the heart of it all sits Le Sirenuse, a legendary hideaway that captures the romance and charm of this iconic village. With its tiled terraces, sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and warm Italian hospitality, it’s the kind of place where time slows and every moment feels cinematic. Whether you're sipping an aperitivo at golden hour or wandering down to the beach through narrow, winding streets, Positano in the summer is pure magic.
Where to Stay: Le Sirenuse
Once a private summer home, this 18th-century villa has been transformed into an intimate retreat filled with hand-painted tiles, antique furnishings, and lush, jasmine-scented terraces. Each room is a quiet sanctuary, many with private balconies overlooking the deep blue of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The hotel’s iconic pool deck, Michelin-starred restaurant La Sponda, and signature red-and-white striped umbrellas have become synonymous with la dolce vita. At Le Sirenuse, every detail—down to the scent of the custom Positano fragrance—is designed to transport you into a world of coastal romance and refined indulgence.
Wining & Dining – La Nuova Dolce Vita
At Le Sirenuse, dining is more than a meal—it’s a ritual of joy, beauty, and connection. With four exquisite venues to choose from, every setting invites you to embrace la nuova dolce vita, whether it’s a sunlit lunch scented with jasmine or a candlelit dinner as the Mediterranean glows at dusk. Here, every clink of a glass and every shared plate is a celebration of southern Italy’s reverence for good food, fine wine, and even better company. Choose your mood—relaxed or refined, casual or celebratory—and let the flavors of Positano do the rest.
Dinner at La Sponda
Starters
Seabass with candied citron
Marinated tuna with couscous and grapefruit reduction
Local lobster with court bouillon, salad, and vegetables
Sorrento tomato salad with Avola almonds
Pasta, Soup, & Rice Dishes
Chilled tomato gazpacho with codfish and peppers
“Fagottelli” pasta with beef from the Lattari Mountains, aged Parmesan (48 months), and black truffle
Risotto with Amalfi lemon and Pantelleria capers
Fish, Shellfish, & Crustaceans
Confit John Dory with baby zucchini and saffron
Mediterranean amberjack with grape jam and Amalfi lemon
Roasted local sea bream with eggplant caviar and burnt leeks
Grilled, Roasted, & Baked Meats
Roasted veal loin with onions, potatoes, and escarole
36-hour lamb shoulder with stuffed pepper
Grilled beef fillet (53°) with creamy potato and wine reduction
Signature Cocktails at Aldo’s
Positano - vodka, lemon and local flowers
Clover Club - gin, raspberry, lemon and egg white
Young Fashioned - bourbon, cocchi rosa, cynar and bitters
Passion Caipirina - cachaca, passionfruit, and lime
Pisco Sour - Pisco, saffron liqueur, lime and egg white
Tommy’s Margarita - Lavender, tequila, and local honey
Infused Negroni Sbagliato - rosemary, campari, vermouth, and prosecco
Concerto - campari, verbena, vermouth, and concerto
Sir Aldo - Rhum, raspberry, curacao, elderflower, and lemon
Mediterranean Martini - salt and smoke, Onda Gin
Aix-en-Provence
With its golden light, fragrant lavender fields, and sun-dappled streets lined with plane trees, Aix-en-Provence captures the essence of southern France. Known for its artistic soul and timeless elegance, this Provençal gem is where painter Paul Cézanne once found endless inspiration—and it’s easy to see why. At the heart of this picturesque town lies Villa Gallici, a romantic retreat that feels like stepping into a French fairytale. With its ivy-covered façade, opulent interiors, and peaceful gardens scented with roses and citrus, it’s a dream base for wandering through open-air markets, sipping rosé on shaded terraces, and soaking in the slower rhythm of summer in Provence.
Where to Stay: Villa Gallici – Relais & Châteaux
Tucked away just a short stroll from the heart of Aix-en-Provence, Villa Gallici is a luxurious hideaway that effortlessly blends French romance with five-star charm. As part of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux collection, this ivy-clad villa is a masterclass in elegance—think antique furnishings, canopied beds, gilded mirrors, and rich Provençal fabrics. The grounds are equally enchanting, with manicured gardens, shaded terraces, and a serene pool framed by cypress trees. Whether you're unwinding with a glass of wine under the stars or indulging in a spa treatment scented with lavender, Villa Gallici offers a peaceful escape infused with old-world glamour and warm hospitality.
Savor the Flavors of Villa Gallici
A celebration of Provençal and Italian cuisine, each menu at Villa Gallici is crafted to delight—from delicate seafood and handmade pastas to refined desserts and regional wines. Whether you're dining under the stars or enjoying a cozy evening inside, every dish tells a story of taste, tradition, and creativity.
Taula Gallici
Starters
Pan-fried Gambero Rosso with bisque, tomato gnocchi, mascarpone cream, and Parmigiano lace
Shin velouté with Borettane onions, lardo crostini, mozzarella, and red onion pickles
Mediterranean mussels and cuttlefish cannelloni with saffron mussel gelée and cuttlefish macaron
Green asparagus with basil mascarpone, bread tile, Taggiasche olives, and citrus-herb infusion
Osciètra Prestige Caviar (30g) with blinis and chive mascarpone
Mains
Roasted lamb saddle stuffed with ricotta and chard, confit shoulder with dried peppers and thyme broth
Pan-fried rack of milk-fed veal with olives, soft polenta, carrot-orange purée, and gremolata
Vitello Tonnato-style Tortellini with Castelmagno cheese, olives, capers, and pine nuts
Mediterranean mullet ballotine with bottarga, parsnip mousseline, crispy shrimp, and black garlic broth
Sea bass glazed with balsamic and licorice, cauliflower panna cotta, octopus, fennel, and candied orange
Desserts
Tiramisu – Mascarpone mousse, Savoiardi biscuit, coffee chocolate candy, Amaretto fondant, coffee foam
Soft Carrot Cake – With Piedmont walnuts, clementine confit, chestnut cream, and carrot caramel
Xoco Mayan Red 80% Chocolate Mousse – With bergamot ganache, brownie, hazelnuts, and death trumpet coulis
Grapefruit Cream – White chocolate ganache, burnt grapefruit gel, confit, and pistachio ice cream
Dolce Serata
Starters
Zucchini flower fritters with arrabiata sauce
Mozzarella Burrata from Puglia with cherry tomatoes, pesto genovese, olive oil & balsamic
Octopus salad with garlic and citrus, basil, fennel, olive oil
The classic vitello tonnato
Pinsa - Roman Style Flatbreads
Pinsa Romana with tomato, stracchino, 30-month Parma ham, candied tomatoes, and arugula
Pinsa Romana with tomato, tuna, capers, olives, and artichokes
White Pinsa Romana with mascarpone, mortadella, and pistachios
Main Courses
Homemade prawn and tarragon ravioli with shellfish bisque and lemon zest
Homemade potato gnocchi with Gorgonzola and walnuts
Linguine with clams, garlic, parsley, and olive oil
Beef and veal polpette with San Marzano tomato sauce and panisses
Italian-style beef tartare with balsamic, pesto verde, pine nuts, panisses, and mixed greens
Cheese & Desserts
Italian matured cheese board
Iced pistachio semifreddo with candied fruit
Pannacotta with red fruits flambéed in Grappa
Red fruit salad with Aperol granita
Santorini
Few places capture the imagination quite like Santorini. With its whitewashed buildings spilling down volcanic cliffs and sapphire-blue domes shining under the Grecian sun, the island feels like a dream brought to life. Whether you're wandering the narrow paths of Oia, exploring ancient ruins, or sailing across the caldera’s deep blue waters, Santorini offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and charm. Summer here is all about sun-drenched afternoons, cliffside dinners, and golden-hour moments that linger long after the sun dips below the horizon.
Where to Stay: Canaves Epitome
Designed with Cycladic minimalism in mind, the suites and villas here blend earthy tones with clean lines, each featuring a private pool and uninterrupted sunset views. Far enough from the bustle of Oia to feel peaceful, yet close enough to stroll into town, it’s a stay that balances privacy with effortless access. Whether you're enjoying breakfast on your terrace or a quiet evening under the stars, Canaves Oia Epitome is the epitome of understated island luxury.
Signature Experiences
At Canaves Oia Epitome, your stay is enriched with bespoke activities that immerse you in the essence of Santorini. From sailing the azure waters to exploring local flavors, each experience is crafted to create lasting memories.
Private Yachting & Sailing: Embark on exclusive catamaran or yacht excursions departing from Ammoudi Bay. Tailored journeys may include wine tastings, scuba diving, and intimate explorations of Santorini's captivating coastline.
Cocktail Masterclass: Discover the art of mixology with a Greek twist. Guided by expert mixologists, learn to craft classic cocktails infused with local spirits, enhancing your appreciation for Greece's vibrant flavors.
Wine Tasting: Savor Santorini's indigenous grape varieties such as Assyrtiko, Aidani, and Mavrotragano. Set against the backdrop of the Aegean Sea, these sessions offer a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation in local winemaking.
Garden Tour: Stroll through lush gardens featuring ancient olive trees and over 70 species of indigenous plants and herbs. This serene experience connects you with nature's timeless beauty and the island's botanical heritage.
Children's Activities: For young guests aged 4 to 12, complimentary programs offer opportunities to explore nature, engage with Santorini's culture, and enjoy endless fun, ensuring a memorable family holiday.
St. Tropez
Once a sleepy fishing village, St. Tropez has evolved into a symbol of Riviera glamour—effortlessly blending coastal charm with high-end allure. Cobblestone streets wind past pastel-hued facades, designer boutiques, and open-air cafés buzzing with energy. By day, sun-seekers flock to its legendary beaches and sparkling blue bays; by night, the town comes alive with a vibrant mix of fine dining, music, and Mediterranean magic. Whether you're exploring local markets, sipping rosé in the old port, or watching the sun set over the sea, St. Tropez is summer at its most iconic.
Where to Stay: Althoff Villa Belrose
The hotel blends classic French sophistication with Mediterranean warmth—think marble floors, manicured gardens, and a peaceful pool terrace that invites all-day lounging. Spacious rooms and suites open onto private balconies or terraces, many with sweeping sea views. With impeccable service, gourmet dining, and a setting just minutes from the heart of Saint-Tropez, Villa Belrose is the perfect home base for those craving both luxury and tranquility on the Côte d’Azur.
Explore the Enchanting Côte d'Azur
Nestled in the heart of the French Riviera, Althoff Villa Belrose serves as an ideal gateway to the region's most picturesque locales. From charming hilltop villages to breathtaking natural wonders, immerse yourself in the diverse beauty that lies just beyond your doorstep.
Saint-Tropez — Famed for its luxurious yachts and vibrant nightlife, Saint-Tropez also offers quaint narrow streets, picturesque courtyards, and a rich Provençal heritage waiting to be explored.
Gassin — Perched atop a ridge overlooking the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, Gassin is celebrated as one of "Les Plus Beaux Villages de France" (The Most Beautiful Villages of France). Its serene atmosphere and panoramic views provide a tranquil retreat from the bustling coast.
Grimaud — A quintessential Provençal village, Grimaud enchants visitors with its medieval alleys, ancient château ruins, and vibrant flora adorning its charming streets.
Gorges du Verdon — Often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Europe," this 50 km-long gorge captivates with its turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs, offering opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and breathtaking vistas.
Valensole Plateau — Renowned for its expansive lavender fields, especially vibrant from early July to early August, the Valensole Plateau presents a sensory delight of color and fragrance unique to Provence.
Embark on a journey through these remarkable destinations, each contributing to the rich tapestry of experiences that define the Côte d'Azur.
Thailand
A country where vibrant culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality converge, Thailand is a destination that captures the heart of every traveler. From the bustling street markets and gilded temples of Bangkok to the tranquil beaches of the southern islands, every region offers its own rhythm and richness. Explore ancient ruins, snorkel through crystal-clear waters, wander through lush jungle landscapes, or simply soak up the sun with a coconut in hand. With its dynamic mix of tradition and adventure, Thailand invites you to experience the best of Southeast Asia—colorful, flavorful, and endlessly captivating.
Where to Stay: Àni Thailand
Designed for full estate buyouts, this private beachfront retreat blends contemporary Thai architecture with warm, personalized service. With just ten spacious suites, an oceanfront infinity pool, a dedicated spa, and a team of private chefs, butlers, and activity guides, every moment is curated to your preferences. Whether you're enjoying sunrise yoga, exploring hidden coves by longtail boat, or simply relaxing beneath swaying palms, ÀNI Thailand is a peaceful, one-of-a-kind escape made for gathering, celebrating, and truly unwinding.
Wellness at Àni
Surrounded by the natural serenity of Koh Yao Noi, ÀNI Thailand invites you to reconnect with yourself through a deeply personal approach to wellness. Guided by the belief that true well-being stems from balance—not striving—every element of your stay is designed to restore, recharge, and reawaken.
Movement & Mindfulness – Begin your day with open-air yoga overlooking the ocean or a sunrise walk along the shore. ÀNI’s fully equipped, air-conditioned gym is ideal for energizing workouts, while private sessions in Muay Thai, Zumba, or boot camps offer active ways to engage the body and clear the mind.
Spa & Relaxation – Each guest is offered 10 complimentary 60-minute massages daily, delivered in tranquil spa rooms that reflect Thai traditions and natural healing practices. From the comforting flow of an Aromatic Essence Massage to the invigorating stretches of a Traditional Thai Massage, every treatment is tailored to your needs.
Signature Spa Treatments Include:
Deep Tissue Massage – Firm pressure and slow strokes reach deep muscle layers to relieve chronic tension, improve circulation, and detoxify the body.
Aromatic Essence Massage – A custom essential oil massage using warm oils and long, flowing strokes—tailored to your needs for deep relaxation and renewal. Choose from blends like:
Soothing – Geranium, lavender, palmarosa
Aromatic – Geranium, lavender, marjoram
Detox – Lemon, black pepper, frankincense
Ginger & Juniper – Ginger, rosemary, juniper
Orange & Geranium – Sweet orange, geranium
Traditional Thai Massage – A clothed, full-body treatment combining acupressure and assisted yoga stretches to improve flexibility, relieve joint tension, and balance energy.
Foot Massage – Focused on pressure points in the feet and lower legs to support whole-body wellness, enhance sleep, and boost energy.
Nutrition & Nourishment – ÀNI’s private chefs craft menus that reflect both wellness goals and indulgent pleasures. From fresh salads and grilled seafood to homemade desserts and tropical fruits, every meal is a flavorful, nourishing experience customized to your preferences.
Nature & Reconnection – Whether it’s an afternoon paddleboarding session, an exploration of hidden coves, or simply unwinding under swaying palms, the island’s natural beauty plays a central role in your healing. Every experience—on land or sea—deepens your sense of peace, presence, and pleasure.
Anne believes that travel informs
the way we see, understand, and appreciate
the world. Where to?