2024 Year in Review
As we look back on 2024, one can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the incredible journeys, unforgettable experiences, and cherished memories we’ve created along the way. I know we say this every year but the feelings and memories never end. This year we visited 3 continents, 9 countries and 30 cities. Based on previous year's travels, this was somewhat of a light year but still just as exciting. Spain in the Winter The first trip of the year was to Madrid—our new favorite city! Some places leave such an impression that we can’t help but return. This time, we found ourselves reminiscing about our wonderful stays at the Fenix Grand Melia during Christmas followed by my stay at the Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá during the February visit. Both hotels, members of the Leading Hotels of the World, provided not only impeccable service but also the perfect base to immerse ourselves in the rich history and culture of Spain’s vibrant capital. As I mention quite often, the beauty of travel is you always find new favorites and when you do, they never seem to disappoint. Madrid is a city that should be visited multiple times as there is simply no way to take it all in and appreciate all it has to offer to include the surrounding areas. The culture, food, history, and architecture always leave us with a sense of amazement. Spring time in Spain, Germany, Greece & Turkieye April started with a quick layover in my hometown of Cologne. While it was brief it was extra meaningful as it allowed me to spend the day with my best friend before continuing on to Alicante and then Murcia but not before another quick stop in Madrid. You may have noticed a pattern as this was our fourth visit to Spain in less than a year—there is a reason for that! Stay tuned for an exciting announcement towards the end of year. From Spain the journey continued on a cruise around Greece & Turkey, a land where history and mythology are intertwined. Athens welcomed us again with its ancient wonders, from the mighty Parthenon standing atop the Acropolis to the charming streets of Plaka, where echoes of Socrates and Plato still seem to linger. Not to mention fabulous food and shopping! Then there was Santorini, our 5th visit here—a place where time slows down, allowing us to take in the breathtaking contrast of whitewashed buildings against the deep blue of the Aegean. The island’s history is just as striking as its beauty; shaped by a massive volcanic eruption around 3,600 years ago, Santorini may well be the inspiration for the lost city of Atlantis. As we wandered through the narrow streets of Oia, sipping local wine and watching the sun melt into the horizon, we couldn’t help but be captivated by the island’s timeless allure. Crete, Greece’s largest island, was next—a land steeped in history, from the Minoan civilization to the legends of Zeus himself. Exploring the Lassithi Plateau, surrounded by windmills and fertile fields, was like stepping into a world where myth and reality blur. Nearby, the Diktaean Cave, believed to be the birthplace of Zeus, added another layer to Crete’s fascinating past. From Greece, our journey would find us in Turkiey, where the rich mixtures of civilizations unfolded before us. In Marmaris, a charming port along the Turkish Riviera, we strolled through its vibrant bazaars and explored the ancient castle that has stood since the 16th century. In Muğla, we uncovered the many layers of history, from its early days as a Carian settlement to its significance under the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. Akyaka, with its traditional Ottoman houses and tranquil ambiance, felt like a step back in time, while Kusadasi served as a gateway to one of the most remarkable sites in the ancient world—Ephesus. Once one of the greatest cities of the Roman Empire, Ephesus still stands as a testament to human ingenuity, from the grand Library of Celsus to the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Perhaps most moving of all was visiting the House of the Virgin Mary, a site of deep spiritual significance believed by many to be the final home of Mary, the mother of Jesus. No trip to Turkey would be complete without experiencing the wonders of Istanbul where, coming back to this vibrant city never gets old. There is always something new to discover, from the opulence of Dolmabahçe Palace, where Ottoman sultans once held court, to the mysterious depths of the Basilica Cistern, built by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century. Every corner of the city has a secret and tells a story. The Peninsula Hotel provided a luxurious retreat, while the historic Hürrem Sultan Hamam, commissioned by the wife of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, was an experience in true Ottoman indulgence. Back in Greece, our travels took us north to Thessaloniki, a city shaped by centuries of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influence. Further south, we explored the picturesque villages of Pelion, where cobblestone streets wind past stone mansions, shaded by Chestnut and Plane trees. And then, of course, there was Mykonos—the jewel of the Aegean, where iconic windmills stand as witnesses to the island’s maritime history, and every narrow alleyway seems to hold a new discovery. Perhaps the most special part of this journey was the opportunity to share it with 43 of our valued clients on a luxurious Silversea cruise. Together, we explored ancient wonders, indulged in world-class cuisine, and experienced the very best that this incredible region has to offer. A heartfelt thank you to Silversea Cruises for their exceptional hospitality, and to our wonderful guests who made this voyage truly unforgettable. As we reflect on these past few months, we are reminded of why we travel—not just to see new places, but to connect with history, culture, and people in a way that leaves a lasting impression. We look forward to many more adventures ahead and, most of all, sharing them with all of you. Summer in the Mediterranean Our next adventure finds us cruising yet again. Some years you just have the feeling this is the way you want to visit the world. Unpack one time and spend your days in a new place which is the beauty of this type of travel. This summer, we embarked on an unforgettable Mediterranean adventure, revisiting some of our favorite places and discovering new ones. From the timeless streets of Rome to the sun-drenched shores of the Amalfi Coast, the rich cultural tapestry of Sicily, the hidden gems of Malta and Sardinia, and the undeniable allure of the French Riviera—each stop along the way added another layer to our ever-growing love for this region. We began in Rome, a city we know well but one that never ceases to amaze us. We hit the ground running, covering miles of cobblestone streets to revisit the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. Michelangelo’s breathtaking ceiling and the grandeur of St. Peter’s continue to inspire awe, no matter how many times we stand beneath them. The Eternal City itself is a living museum, with excavations happening everywhere, reminding us of the history beneath our feet. The Colosseum and the Roman Forum remain testaments to the engineering brilliance and power of the ancient empire, where gladiators once battled, and great orators shaped the course of history. From Rome, we traded ancient ruins for coastal splendor along the Amalfi Coast. Sorrento welcomed us with its vibrant streets and postcard-perfect views of Mount Vesuvius, while Positano dazzled with its cascading pastel houses and chic boutiques. There’s something about the Amalfi Coast that feels like stepping into a dream—where the scent of lemons lingers in the air, and the Mediterranean sparkles like a jewel all around you. Sicily was next, a destination that felt extra special as we finally made it to Catania, the hometown of a dear friend’s husband. We stood in Piazza del Duomo, taking a long-awaited photo with the city’s famous Elephant Fountain, a symbol of resilience in the shadow of Mount Etna. Catania’s Baroque beauty, bustling markets, and mouthwatering street food reminded us why Sicily is so captivating. Later, in Palermo, we discovered a city filled with contrasts—where Norman palaces stand beside lively street markets, and the echoes of centuries of conquests are reflected in its architecture and cuisine. Our street food tour highlighted the delicious rivalry between Catania and Palermo, each boasting its own take on Sicilian classics like arancini and cannoli. From Sicily, we made our way to Malta, where we explored the island of Gozo. Walking through the ancient Ggantija Temples, older than the Egyptian pyramids, was a humbling experience, reminding us of the deep-rooted history of this small but fascinating island. The fortified Citadel in Victoria provided stunning panoramic views, as well as a glimpse into Gozo’s past, where knights and traders once defined its destiny. Then, it was time for a long-awaited return to Tunisia—a place deeply personal to us. Having lived there as a child and vacationed there often, stepping back into Tunis was both nostalgic and exciting. We revisited the Medina, one of the world’s oldest and best-preserved medieval Islamic cities, wandered through the halls of the Bardo National Museum, home to the largest collection of Roman mosaics, and strolled along Avenue Habib Bourguiba, the city’s vibrant heart. A special visit to Sidi Bou Said, with its striking blue and white architecture, brought back memories of the town’s artistic legacy, while Carthage’s ruins stood as a reminder of the once-mighty Phoenician empire that dared to challenge Rome itself. Back to Sicily, this time to Palermo, where we dove deeper into the cultural divide between the island’s major cities. Every bite of street food told a story, and every alleyway revealed another chapter of Sicily’s complex past. The city’s Norman-Arab architecture, its grand cathedrals, and bustling markets made for an unforgettable experience. Our Tuscan journey continued with a long-overdue stop in Pisa. While the Leaning Tower is its most famous landmark, the city’s true magic lies in the Piazza dei Miracoli, where the cathedral and baptistery tell the story of Pisa’s medieval maritime power. It was a place where history came alive, framed by the rolling hills of Tuscany. In Sardinia, the charming little town of Olbia—so captivating we forgot to take pictures—became the setting for some of our favorite moments. Between exploring local markets and stumbling upon a robotic grass cutter, we found ourselves immersed in the island’s slower pace, proving that sometimes the best memories are the ones unplanned. Corsica greeted us with the elegance of Ajaccio, Napoleon Bonaparte’s birthplace. The city, with its palm-lined waterfront, rich history, and artistic treasures, reminded us of the unique cultural blend that defines this French island. The Musée Fesch, with its stunning collection of Italian paintings, was a highlight, reinforcing Corsica’s deep historical ties to the Mediterranean world. Our journey continued to the glamorous shores of Saint-Tropez, where the blend of old-world charm and jet-set luxury created an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. From the historic quarter of La Ponche to the dazzling yachts in the harbor, Saint-Tropez has remained a symbol of indulgence and beauty since Brigitte Bardot put it on the map in the 1950s. Finally, we arrived in Monte Carlo, waking up to its breathtaking coastal views one last time before the end of our Mediterranean adventure. Monte Carlo’s legendary casino, high-end boutiques, and the thrilling twists of the Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit encapsulate the city’s reputation for luxury and excitement. Yet beyond the glitz, the principality holds a rich history, dating back to the 13th century with the rule of the Grimaldi family, who transformed this once-struggling region into a beacon of wealth and prestige. As we reflect on this incredible journey, we are reminded that some places call us back time and time again. The Mediterranean, with its deep history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures, never disappoints. Each city, each coastline, and each historic ruin tells a story—one that continues to unfold with every visit. Until the next adventure! Fall into Spain Thanksgiving would find us yet again, in sunny Spain! This year, we feel especially grateful as we reflect on how much has changed since our first visit to Murcia last December. We instantly fell in love with the region, which inspired us to make a big decision—we purchased three properties on three different golf resorts here! Each property is located in a different community, all featuring stunning Jack Nicklaus-designed golf courses and fantastic amenities, including clubhouses, cafés, pubs, restaurants, a supermarket, fitness centers, spas, and numerous pools. Two of the properties are dedicated to rentals, while the third is our personal retreat, currently undergoing renovations. All three boast breathtaking frontline golf and pool views, and only 15 minutes from the Mediterranean Sea makes each day feel likethe true gift that it is. Beyond the properties, we’ve been enjoying life in Spain to the fullest. From celebrating milestones with loved ones—including a perfectly executed 40th birthday surprise—to welcoming friends from across Europe, each moment has been special. Most recently, we spent a wonderful day exploring Cartagena with my best friend, who visited us from Cologne, Germany. As we settle into this new chapter, we’re reminded of the incredible journey that brought us here and the wonderful people who have supported us along the way. Whether enjoying the serene views, playing a round of golf, or simply soaking up the Spanish sunshine, we couldn’t be happier with our decision to call Murcia one of our homes. North African Holiday The end of the year would find our journey’s leading us to Morocco. A place with a deep and long history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes that make this country a truly unforgettable destination. The ancient streets of Marrakech to the remote villages of the Atlas Mountains and the golden sands of the desert, every moment was filled with rich tradition and beauty. Our adventure began in Marrakech, a city that has stood as a cultural and commercial crossroads for nearly a thousand years. Founded in 1070 by the Almoravid dynasty, Marrakech quickly grew into a center of trade, religion, and scholarship, attracting merchants and scholars from across the Islamic world. The city’s famous red walls, constructed in the 12th century, continue to stand as a testament to its historical grandeur. Wandering through the labyrinthine streets of the medina—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—was like stepping back in time. We marveled at the intricate architecture of the Bahia Palace, admired the towering minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque, and explored the city’s bustling souks, where artisans still craft textiles, pottery, and jewelry using centuries-old techniques. Marrakech’s heartbeat is undoubtedly Jemaa el-Fnaa, the vibrant main square where storytellers, musicians, and food vendors bring the city to life. As the sun set, we found ourselves savoring traditional Moroccan flavors—fragrant tagines, steaming couscous, and refreshing mint tea—while soaking in the energy of this gathering place.One of the most profound experiences of our journey was venturing into the Atlas Mountains, home to the Berber people, the indigenous inhabitants of North Africa. The Atlas range, stretching across Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia, has long served as both a barrier and a bridge between civilizations. These mountains, with their snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and ancient villages, are as breathtaking as they are historically significant. We had the privilege of visiting remote Berber villages, where we were welcomed with open arms. Our guide, known as “Mr. Chocolate,” led us on a heartwarming experience of delivering sweets to local children, who ran from their homes with excitement at his arrival. The resilience of these communities, especially in the wake of last year’s devastating earthquake that claimed thousands of lives, was truly humbling. Despite their hardships, the Berber people continue to live with grace, hospitality, and a deep connection to their land. After an invigorating hike through the mountains, we shared a meal with a local family—three sisters who prepared a traditional feast of tagine and couscous over an open fire. As we sat together, exchanging stories and laughter, we were reminded that true wealth lies not in material possessions, but in the strength of community and the richness of culture. As we continued our journey, we visited Aït Benhaddou, a striking UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most iconic ksars (fortified villages). Built along the ancient caravan route between the Sahara Desert and Marrakech, this earthen city has stood for centuries as a stronghold of commerce and culture. Merchants traveling between Africa and Europe once stopped here, trading goods such as gold, salt, and spices. With its towering kasbahs, narrow alleyways, and breathtaking desert backdrop, Aït Benhaddou has captivated not only historians but also filmmakers. Its cinematic beauty has made it a filming location for legendary productions such as Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and Lawrence of Arabia. Walking through its timeworn corridors, we could almost hear the echoes of traders and travelers who once called this place home. Spending Christmas Day in the Agafay Desert was an experience like no other. The vast, rolling dunes, bathed in golden light, offered a peaceful contrast to the lively streets of Marrakech. There is something deeply humbling about the stillness of the desert—the way it stretches endlessly, whispering stories of ancient caravans and nomadic tribes who once navigated its shifting sands. Returning to Marrakech, we indulged in a stay at La Mamounia, a legendary hotel that has been a beacon of Moroccan hospitality for over a century. Ranked among the world’s finest hotels and a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, La Mamounia blends Moorish elegance with contemporary luxury. From the intricate zellige tilework and sculpted plaster to the lush gardens filled with the scent of orange blossoms, every detail exudes timeless beauty. The melodic trickling of fountains to birds singling throughout the gardens added to the tranquil atmosphere, making it the perfect retreat after days of exploration. Morocco is not just a place; it is an experience that lingers in the heart long after you leave. It is in the warmth of its people, the depth of its history, and the vibrancy of its culture. As we bid farewell, we knew this would not be our last visit—there is still so much more to see, learn, and embrace. We look forward to returning in 2025 to continue this incredible journey, and we hope that one day, you too will have the opportunity to explore the magic of Morocco. As we reflect on this past year, we are reminded of why we travel—not just to see new places, but to connect with history, culture, and people in a way that leaves a lasting impression. We look forward to many more adventures ahead and, most of all, to sharing them with all of you.