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Almost every travel guide will tell you that the best time to visit Napa and Sonoma Valley is in the Summer. Yup, that’s about as right as saying that the best time to go to Toys R Us is a week before Christmas. It is chaotic, packed, and good luck on getting note and restaurant reservations.

A summer trip to Napa means standing in lines, fighting for a parking spot, waiting for your order for 30-40 minutes and sky high hotel rates.

Go in the Fall. – sometime from Sept to early November.  This is the time leaves turn to golden brown and it’s also when they harvest the grapes.  It’s not too hot, not too crowded, easy to get reservations at Michelin-rated restaurants and hotels are quite affordable.

I hope these images will convince you that I am right! See for yourself and fall in love with Napa. 

I was in Zurich when a friend posted something on my Facebook page “If you’re on a road trip in Europe, you definitely have to see the Christmas Markets in Germany. The Germans know how to celebrate Christmas more than any country.”

His post intrigued me — I grew up in the Philippines and few can beat Filipinos as far as going overboard with Christmas (Filipino families put up their Christmas trees as early October … I am not kidding!).

I have been to hundreds of beaches around the world and I have never seen this phenomenon- sand that turns from white to pink during sunset. It’s quite hard to believe but it’s true.

Around 4:00 pm, the pure white sand of Elafonisi Beach (West coast of Crete) turns from pure white to dark pink. It’s as though someone sprinkled pink dust on the shores when you weren’t looking. In some light, the sand takes on a pink glow, said to be from corals. (Elafonisi Beach is actually protected by an EU environmental program.)

Filling up the gas tank of your rental car can be quite confusing. Is the gas tank on the left or right side? Now, with this simple tip, you know exactly where the gas tank is.

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I was on a road trip with my family across Italy when we booked Park Palace.  Upon entry to the lobby, we can’t help but be awed by the grandness of the villa. It was truly a jaw-dropping experience.

Surrounded by the Tuscan hills, Park Palace is a historic Florentine villa offering 26 lovely rooms, well-kept pool, manicured lawns and enough parking for your entourage. The place is so peaceful, you wouldn’t know that you’re just a 5 minute bus ride from central Florence (or a short 20 minute walk to Florence’s Cathedral, Uffizi Gallery, Boboli Gardens and Ponte Vecchio).

Upon exiting the airport, the Intercon Bora Bora’s staff took my luggage and walked me to the private boat 20 steps away. From there, they whisked me to hotel across the blue lagoon; the view was spectacular, I couldn’t believe my eyes. I have been around the world yet I have never seen islands this beautiful.

Upon arrival at the resort, two muscular men partially covered in Tahitian tattoos and wearing grass skirts welcomed us by blowing Conch Shell horn to announce my arrival. I can truly say I have never been welcomed at a hotel like that. (Wish every hotel did that. LOL).

I did not have Milos on my radar but it was included in Travel and Leisure Magazine’s 25 Best Islands in the world. So I re-routed my trip to include this somewhat secluded island in Greece.

I did not disappoint. The island is a bit sleepy with a almost half of the island without roads or access. Many of its beaches are empty. You can have an entire cove to yourself. It is beautiful and unique.

The crowd here is more upscale than normal because it is not a party island. (Think Tommy Hilfiger get up). People come here to avoid the loud music and Ibiza-like crowd. There are many yacht owners whi visit the island- casual yet chic.

Hotels run the gamut from inexpensive to luxurious. (But not quite as luxurious as Santorini hotels).

If you’re looking for a “new” island that is off the beaten path- give this amazing island a try.

My skin is glowing, right? Hahaha That is sweat right there. Hahaha It is seriously 96 degrees and humid. He wanted to go up soooo badly, and it is our only reason we are back in Athens. So we had to do it.

I was dying because you have to hike up this long windy, path. And you’re sweating soooo badly. Hahaha I hate the heat- but I do have to admit, it was worth it once you get up there. Pretty amazing views and architecture.

Tip for you- bring bottled water with you. Hydrate hyrdrate hyrdate!