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Instagram Stories

Instagram StoriesAdmin2023-10-12T09:18:09-05:00

welltraveledtexan

Of course we were busy looking for snacks and a re Of course we were busy looking for snacks and a restroom when we stumbled into a contrade procession. Of course 😆

Siena’s 17 Contrade - the neighborhoods of the city going back to medieval times - still hold onto centuries of tradition and Catholicism. They compete in the famous annual Palio bareback horse 🐎 race around the square July and August. Each contrade has their own symbol and still exist today - the Eagle, Snail, Wave, Panther, Forest, Tortoise, Owl, Unicorn, Shell, Tower, Ram, Caterpillar, Dragon, Giraffe, Porcupine, She-Wolf and the Goose.
The flag bearers and drummers were processing to the Duomo for Mass. I loved bumping into the parents of the boys in the procession - proud Papas and Mamas! 

Another reason to go to Italy in the off season, not many Americans, lots of Italians 🇮🇹 
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#welltraveledtexan #italy #siena #florence #tuscany #history #traveexpert
Siena, I’m baack! It’s been 20 years and you h Siena, I’m baack! It’s been 20 years and you haven’t changed a bit. First stop, always gelato with our new friends from Portugal- these kids spoke 4 languages including impeccable English. The look on their faces when I told them I was from Texas was priceless. Texas??!! They were so excited, had to take a 📷. Felt like a celebrity!

Siena is a must see on our clients itinerary in Tuscany or Florence and @comocastellodelnero makes it so easy with a daily complimentary shuttle for guests of the resort. 

This Tuscan town is unreal - home of the annual Palio Horse race the friendly competition is the legend of centuries of tradition. We lucked out, as you’ll see in the next post - little did we know it was the annual start of the festivities with the March to the Duomo and Mass. Next up! 
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#welltraveledtexan #tuscany #siena #flornece #palio #horses #tradition #travelexpert #italy
Meet Mattia, and his adorable super sniffers, Bris Meet Mattia, and his adorable super sniffers, Brisa and Lily, team truffle! Mattia could not have been more patient with all of us trudging around the forest 😆

It’s bliss to hike down from the castello into the woods on a crisp fall morning with these precious pooches leading the way. Just one of the many experiences we schedule for clients @comocastellodelnero. Back at the villa, Chef Giovanni whipped us up a decadent truffle lunch in the terrace. Bellisimo! 
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#welltraveledtexan #truffles #travel #localexperiences #itsly #tuscany #fallfun
It’s not often you have a cooking class led by a It’s not often you have a cooking class led by a Michelin starred chef - and one that is so much fun.

Chef Giovanni Luca Di Pirro who helms the kitchen of Como Castello del Nero’s Michelin starred La Torre restaurant is perfectly at home with guests. If you’ve met Michelin ⭐️ chefs before, you know this is unusual 😎

Giovanni is a blast. Funny, engaging and a talented culinary genius, whether you spend a few hours in his on-site cooking class, dine at La Torre or see him around the property, his big personality and welcoming smile are a perfect fit for a hotel brand that elegantly marries luxury with the intention to be transformative- making Como’s guests feel at home the moment they walk through the gorgeous 12th century doors of this epic Tuscan Villa Estate.
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#welltraveledtexan #travel #italy #tuscany #florence #chef #culinary #wine #michelinstar @comohotels @comocastellodelnero
I am in Heaven ❤️ Every time I send clients to I am in Heaven ❤️ Every time I send clients to @comocastellodelnero they come back changed, relaxed, wowed, rested and energized. Now I know why! 

This 240 acres of Paradise just 45 minutes south of Florence is all the things. A 12th Century Villa transformed into a luxury retreat, award winning Como Shambala spa (I hit that the first day after my e-bike ride), Michelin Starred restaurant, impeccable and friendly staff and the most killer Chianti views from every inch of this incredible estate. 

Let’s explore, coming up next…cooking classes, truffle hunting and don’t even get me started on the food and 🍷 
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#welltraveledtexan @comocastellodelnero #italy #tuscany #florence #chianti #travelexpert #sommelier #wine #food #luxurytravel #travel #culinary #truffles #fallfun
I finally met David - the most famous and glorious I finally met David - the most famous and glorious man in Florence (no lines, because it’s November!). He is spectacular. 

I’m grateful we didn’t meet until the second day because just hearing my Florence friends talk with excitement over dinner about their favorite thing about him - his hands, his butt (I’m looking at you Francesca), his abs, all his attributes - made me so curious as to why people look at this marvel of a man for so long. People were there for hours just looking up in awe. 

Now, I get it. The light from above like he’s outside. The level of detail and skill it must have taken Michelangelo to carve him out of one piece of marble - the veins and tension in his right hand, the absence of them in his left as he reaches for the slingshot the moment before he launches it to become our hero. 
Truly remarkable, you have to meet him in person !🇮🇹 
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#welltraveledtexan #florence @accessitaly #david #travel #travelexpert #art #sculpture #italy
Meet Leonardo and Verdiana! The saviors of my in F Meet Leonardo and Verdiana! The saviors of my in Florence. Here’s the Rest of the Story…

Da Vinci, Botocelli, Rafaello, Michelangelo, so many great works grace the Uffuzi Gallery. Even if you’re “not a museum person” - you have to go - so many things in life make more sense 🤔 

I’m interested in art, but I struggle with patience. My ADD is a blessing (many successful small business owners have it) and a curse - it makes it hard for me to focus for too long. I generally want to flee after an hour or two in museums. 

But not today. Because my amazing Italy partner Verdiana @accessitaly matched me with Leonardo, a dynamic and fun private guide for the day. He picked me up in the lobby of my hotel, we spent the morning strolling the medival streets to Palazzo Vecchio, hearing the background of the piazzas, their many statues leisurely hanging around representing something someone in Florence wanted to say in sometimes obtuse ways. 

He translated centuries old stone and oil on canvas into stories, bringing them to life. I felt like I learned a new language, suddenly Florence became a lot more interesting once I understood what the Medici family and the Florentines created here -  and why. And I always appreciate a good story. 

I love Botocelli even more now when I found out he was first to introduce the Pagan Gods in art in the 14th century (in a wholly Catholic city) - and not get in trouble for it. Why? He used it to help people understand that everyone, even the Gods, had human feelings, they loved, they lost, they made mistakes, just like the rest of us. Yes!

Persius slaying Medusa, the Birth of Venus, and Primavera are now my favorite works - I get their message.

These famous artists were the journalists of their time - when there were no newspapers, TV, social media - I love that idea. 

Within a few hours, the lightbulb flipped on and I’m even more in love with Florence. 
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#welltraveledtexan #travel #florence #italy #art #uffuzi #medici #privateguide #leonardo #palazzovecchio #museum
I Cannot. Stop. Taking. Photos. Everything is so p I Cannot. Stop. Taking. Photos. Everything is so picture perfect in Florence in the winter.

And I haven’t even shown you The Uffuzi, the Duomo or that big beautiful famous naked masterpiece of a man, David (yet) I did see them all, I promise. 

But first…strolling the streets by myself as the sun sets and the Christmas lights twinkle, eating roasted chestnuts and …gelato. (Twice a day, why not? )

Let’s start traveling smarter in 2024, people. Italy has 4 seasons - not just summer. Fall and winter are ahmazing. Crisp temps, holiday lights, wine in front of the fire, have the city to yourself. Fall in love with your love again, show your kids the sites without the heat and crowds. Be a local in one of the most beautiful cities in the world ⭐️ You can do it, I will help! 
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#welltraveledtexan #florence #italy #shopping #gelato #travel
#travelexpert #traveladvisor signaturetravelnetwork @hotelsavoyflorence @accessitaly
Ciao, Florence, It’s been too long! This stunnin Ciao, Florence, It’s been too long! This stunning city steals your ♥️ moment by moment, each story, painting, statue, and piazza filled with life. Every old street, charming local, each Ciao, Buongiorno or Buona Sera. 

Being here in winter is BLISS! No lines, better hotel rates and Christmas cheer. I’ve been so busy wandering the medieval streets, meeting our hoteliers and guides, I’ve barely had time to post - so here goes, lots of Florentine fun coming right up! 
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#florence #welltraveledtexan #david #duomo #wine #food #italy #travelexpert #traveladvisor
It’s been exactly 1 year since my last flight on It’s been exactly 1 year since my last flight on my favorite European Airline @airfrance. Just in time to enjoy their newly redone Business Class cabin.  Top notch service, smiles from the crew (and good 🍾), the engines are purring, I’m pouring over the menu and stretching out for dinner & a movie. C’est fantastique! 

Now, who knows where I’m really going once I connect in Paris? 

PS, I carried on, no checked bags, lessons in packing for winter with just carryons, coming up tomorrow when I land 🧳 
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#welltraveledtexan #paris #florence #tuscany #fallforflorence #travelexpert #sommelier #travel #traveltheworld #europe #france #italy @airfrance
It’s a sign😃 Hook’Em Horns! Stay tuned to It’s a sign😃 Hook’Em Horns! 
Stay tuned to the end to see Bert Auburns’ killer Christmas 🎄 Suit!
Just in time for Black Friday cruise sales, our br Just in time for Black Friday cruise sales, our brand new website is ready to go - find our website link in our Bio! 

The week after Thanksgiving is the busiest time of the year for travel advisors since all of you get together over holiday meals and talk about where the next year will take you. Then Monday you call us to make it happen. 

Why wait when you can get started now before the food coma starts?

Our new website makes it easy to not only search and book all the Black Friday cruise sales (hurry, they’re happening NOW!). Click the Book Yourself tab to search and book cruises, tours all over the world, purchase never-leave-home without it travel insurance and take a peek at all the VIP benefits in our Fine Hotel and Resort program. 

The biggest gift to give yourself - find your new best friend/travel advisor who will help you make 2024 the best year yet. 

Click the Travel Team page, get to know our advisors in Houston, Austin, Los Angeles and Atlanta and send them an email to get your next adventure rolling. 

Happy Thanksgiving from Well Traveled Texan. Let’s get this travel party started!
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#welltraveledtexan #blackfriday #travelsale #travelexpert #traveladvisor #signaturetravelnetwork #vacation #thanksgiving #luxurytravel
It's that time of year again when adventure meets It's that time of year again when adventure meets savings - Cyber Monday is coming! Whether you've been dreaming of exploring new horizons, embarking on a relaxing getaway, or diving into thrilling experiences, the travel deals of Black Friday and Cyber Monday are here to make your dreams a reality. From incredible hotel offers, jaw-dropping tour packages, and more, these limited-time deals are your golden ticket to unforgettable journeys, and we can help you find the perfect deal for you. 
Contact us via PM, email or phone, link in Bio. Let’s get you somewhere with savings!

#welltraveledtexan #cybermonday #travel #vacations
Thank you to @bennemtin for telling your story, en Thank you to @bennemtin for telling your story, encouraging us to think about our time on this earth. 

Wise words from a young man who reminded us the only regrets you will ever have are when you’ve run out of time with the people you love and you look back at the things you could have done. 

Let’s not let that happen, together! 

We as travel advisors have one job - to make your travel dreams come true, one adventure at a time. 

Cheering on Team USA at the Paris Olympics? The Northern Lights? Africa’s great migration from a hot air balloon? Christmas Eve Mass at the Vatican? Center Court at the US Open/French Open/ Australian Open? Sailing the Greek Islands? So many wishes we hear and make happen every day! 

Let’s get time together now to work on a plan for next year - or the next 5 years - so you don’t miss anything on your wish list and have #noregrets. 

Click the contact us button in the link in bio and lets get moving on a future of #noregrets, now! 
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#welltraveledtexan #wishlist #travel #luxurytravel #noregrets #explore #discover #bucketlist #travelexperts.
Sake, sushi, sumo and friends 🍸 We loved drinks Sake, sushi, sumo and friends 🍸 We loved drinks with @qofclubslifestyle, our partners in London, France and Italy who make us look like superstars every day. 

The best way to kick off our last night at Signature Travel Week 🍾 Next up - The Sphere! 
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#welltraveledtexan #wakuda signaturetravelnetwork #travel #luxurytravel #vegasbaby #sigtn #travelexperts #travelmatters #wanderlust #wegosoyouknow #thesphere
She did it! One of our favorite daughters and WTT She did it! One of our favorite daughters and WTT intern Nicki Polocheck Officially Signed to play NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball at University of California San Diego! This Well Traveled Texan will add even more stops to her destination list. La Jolla, here we come - Go Tritons! 

Huge thank you to all her incredible coaches, family, friends and team mates for preparing her, supporting her and always being Team Nicki!! We love you and can’t wait to see you courtside next season @ucsandiego !
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@ucsdwbb @nickipolocheck_ @nicki.polocheck #womensbasketball #athlete #valedictorian #baller #teamnicki @ucsandiego #welltraveledtexan
The beloved, wise and wonderful legend, Ignacio Ma The beloved, wise and wonderful legend, Ignacio Maza, kicked off our general session, revealing his Where to Go in 2024 list.

Ignacio’s 12 picks are a diverse list from around the world, all with one thing in common. Less touristed gems that deliver an unforgettable experience. 

I must be onto to something, I visited 5 of these this year and wowed my way through every single moment. All for research (🤣 it’s a tough job) to create the best trips for our clients. 

Denmark 🇩🇰 
Istria, Croatia 🏰 
Fez, Morocco 🐪 
Eastern Cape, South Africa 
Saudi Arabia 🏜️ 
Seoul,South Korea 🇰🇷
Chiang Rai, Thailand (the🐘 💕!)
Queensland, Australia 🇦🇺 
South Island, New Zealand 🏔️ 
Los Cabos 🏝️ 
Atacama Desert Chile 💫 
Antarctica 🐧 
Maui 🌺 

Chiang Mai was magical, Australia and New Zealand, like being in another world. Los Cabos never disappoints and Maui’s beauty and people brought back what it means to have the Aloha Spirit. 

What’s in your wish list for 2024? Let’s make it happen! 
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#welltraveledtexan #travel #wishlist #luxury #bucketlist #chile #maui #australia #thailand #newzealand #morocco #denmark #croatia #loscabos #southkorea #saudiarabia #southafrica @ignacioamaza #thelegend
Day 1 ✔️ Signature Travel Week is full on fil Day 1 ✔️ 
Signature Travel Week is full on filling our brains with knowledge and non stop celebration of travel’s ability to change, educate and excite you. 

Thank you @langhamhotels for the epic lunch with Dyptique Paris and all the fun dinners with @roccofortehotels @memorablecostarica @redcarnationhotels @uniworldcruises and @hyatt_hotels_and_resorts 

When we all make it back to the room, we press our noses to the window and let the Sphere wrap up the night 😳

We’re a tight team at WTT. Working with one of our rock star travel advisors to plan your trip gives you access to all 15 of our brains and over 100 countries we’ve put our boots in the ground and explored so we can create incredible itineraries for you. 

Travel is the great educator - come to class with us! 

Day 2, Let’s Go!! 

#welltraveledtexan #travel #luxurytravel #travelelevates #signaturetravelnetwork #explore #vacation #girlstrips #guystrips 
@signaturetravelnetwork @roccofortehotels
Good morning from Vegas! Our WTT Team has swiftly Good morning from Vegas! Our WTT Team has swiftly taken over the Penthouse Suite 🍾 at the Venetian for Signature Travel Week. Base camp is a killer view of the sphere, we can’t stop watching it! 

We kicked it off with Tapas at Jaleo and the OPM show - you have to go, and get the good seats! 

Hilarious night with the team, coffee’s here and we’re bright eyed and ready to meet our hotel, tour and cruise partners for a week of travel intel and relationship building with all these incredible Signature Travel experts. Let’s go!!! 
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#welltraveledtexan #signaturetravelweek #lasvegas #thesphere #travel #luxurytravel #travelexpert
It happened! What an incredible day with the team It happened! What an incredible day with the team @condenasttraveller 💫 To spend the day at CN Headquarters where legendary journalists create publications like Traveler, Vogue, Vanity Fair, GQ, and so many others, a dream come true.

When I was 25, Condé Nast Traveler Magazine was my bible. I wanted to be a travel writer SO badly, to know everything about the world, share it with people. Every month’s issue was a gift-and I would give friends subscriptions so they could come along for the ride. I still pour through each word and photo, have binders of articles I refer to when thinking about client itineraries. 

Earlier this year I was invited by the editors to be a Condé Nast Traveler Specialist, an elite and tiny group of travel experts that Condé Nast can call on to inform them on industry trends, what’s happening with demand, how clients are feeling and experiencing travel and destinations.

Yesterday I was invited to CN headquarters at 1 World Trade Center to meet with Editor Jesse Ashlock, in a small (just 10 of us) Roundtable discussion and then afterward to be a part of their Points of View Summit with their features editors to discuss topics like Brand Loyalty, Artificial Intelligence and its impact in travel (in reality, none - no one can replace a travel advisors brain) and Responsible Travel. 

I’m so thankful to the CN Traveler team for hosting me in their beautiful offices, for their great questions and conversations, the incredible opportunity to be a part of this luxury advisory team. I met so many incredible people, and can’t wait to contribute anything I can to keep travelers exploring their world. 

Travel is truly the best educator 🌍 
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#welltraveledtexan #condenasttraveller #signaturetravelnetwork #travel #luxury #luxurytravel #travelexpert #nyc #explore #vacation #destination #condenast
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