Jodianne Johnson Travel

10/20/2021

Now that I’m back to reliable WiFi … I have to share a few things that were pretty cool. I’m not a surfer - but - one of our posse was surfing-passionate and diverted us happily to a spot off Portugal’s coast famous for the “wave” (I hear there’s a Netflix special devoted to it too).

It was windy when we were there and the surf more choppy than wave filled but the museum attached to the observation point (Fort of Sao Miguel Arcanjo) had some impressive photos of 60 - 80 foot waves gone by (apologies to the photographer as he/ she deserves credit for these). For someone under exposed to surfing lore - I was impressed and suggest that if this sport is your jam .. Portugal’s Nazare should be on a short list of must-see’s. October to March is “giant” wave season.

Pro tip: with words like “human cannonball,” “8 story waves” and “insane catapult” used to describe the surfers and conditions around these giant waves … odds are you will be a spectator. But, hats off to you should you dare to try!!

10/16/2021

What a lovely place! I had the honor of touring a small boutique property in Florence - The Place. Located on the Santa Maria Novella Square, the hotel’s spaces have been completely redone. Charming vignettes and seating alcoves dot the main floor for guests enjoyment - along with a guests only roof terrace. A large dining terrace is open - weather permitting - in the square too.

We dined in their restaurant which served on assorted patterns of Ginori China (I had forgotten how much l love this line). Avocado tartar with green apples and perfect - simple - spaghetti. Yum!

The Place has only 20 rooms - one even with a view of of Duomo from the bathtub.

The Place also has a cultural, culinary and artistic project to enhance guests experiences by partnering with various artisans - they call it the Place of Wonders Project. Some options available during our visit: tour the paper company Pineider, visit (exclusively) the Marino Marini sculpture museum or the Rucellai Sepulchre.

Pro tip: even the experience at the front door is chic. Very subtly written on the door is a brass plate alerting you to look 👉 where you will find a braided cord to pull the bell to enter.

10/13/2021

Amsterdam & the Netherlands have much to offer, and I for one really enjoyed their style. The colors. Their laid back chic. The chill vibe met with fierce respect for rules and a keen eye for sustainable. In no particular order (frankly these last few days have been a blur of eye candy) a few shots on the camera roll ❤️❤️

When you have 15 advisors on a week long trip, there’s a question we asked amongst ourselves at the end … “would you come back??” Everyone said yes. Soon.

Pro tip: Biking is a local pastime … it’s aggressive and there’s a sixth sense these natives have on how to roll thru intersections. Unless you were born here — a ride thru that chaotic dance is asking for medical care. And - like many Northern European countries, the weather is not much concern to them. Rain, wind, sun, blue skies come and go rapidly - dress the part and enjoy!

10/09/2021

Hope ❤️ and love for this gorgeous city.

10/08/2021

It’s pretty Grand in Amsterdam; especially when you are a guest of the Sofitel Legend the Grand. Kees the GM might just be one of the world’s nicest people … who threw open his arms and welcomed us with a flower arranging workshop and a beautiful dinner.

The hotel has a rich history - it was once a convent (in the 15th century), royal lodging and even city hall. I loved the wedding chapel decorated with frescos and stain glass windows from Chris LeBeau. The chocolate treat in my room mirrored the design (nice touch!)

This is a hotel with seasoned and distinguished staff. The concierge, the butler, the doormen, the cleaning team - all are top notch and the definition of professional. Notes on my pillow, oil for my bath, chocolates on the table - and the very tasty breakfast hosted by a man with an infectiously kind flourish was a mighty nice way to start the day.

The Grand is located in the heart of the old city … steps away from the main square and briming with “action.”

Pro Tip: Look 6 ways before you cross any street .. bikes are everywhere and while the right of way supposedly is the walker - I wouldn’t want to argue in this language (Dutch speech may remind you of someone with a throat infection, says our host).

10/02/2021

Want to know what it’s like in Paris? Pretty darn wonderful.

With vaccine card in hand - or - better the EU QR code (slightly elusive but JJT knows a trick or two to get one) - Paris is open to you … restaurants with pomme frites, Pink martinis and chocolate soufflés. Meringues, crepes, chestnuts, chocolate, cappachinos … chefs who take their craft very seriously. Be sure to ask me about the 2 lives we saved from over-gulping on yummy bread (yes, it’s true!).

Museums are open and visual wonders like Sainte Chapelle and the new icon - the Louis Vuitton Foundation are both moving and gleaming. From beneath the smoke-stained windows of the Notre Dame, art from area school children reminds you how the world feels about Paris and her symbols.

And Paris shopping? It’s on fire … It’s been a long time since I’ve seen a department store full of that many gorgeous clothes (Bon Marche) or seen one that shiny and reimagined (Cheval Blanc in the old Samaritaine). The fashion houses have windows packed with gorgeousness … Clunky soles, tuile and lots of pink (sign me up!)

But - after a few days in Paris - what I loved the most? Walking, and riding, the streets and taking in all the ooh la la of this city. Fashion week has the sidewalks briming with wild and wonderful outfits (on some very tall people) … there was life, like a bit of our old life … a lot like the parts we miss the most. And Ooh la la did I love it!!

And, wait til I show you where I stayed … that deserves 10 pictures of their own.

Ready to enjoy? Pack your mask for the indoor venues (if they have crowds) … and leave A LOT of room in the suitcase for what you will bring home!!

09/25/2021

09/23/2021

If we had Six Senses … that 6th might be “to experience.” Experience some lovely, that is. This hotel in the Douro Valley exceeded every expectation - the room, the view, the activities …the food deserves its own post (coming soon) and the staff is divine.

Pro tip: we hated to leave and wish we’d had one more day (I think it has a way of making you feel this way no matter how long you stay). The room options here are nuanced. Would you rather see water or vines is the easy question … and I know lots more to ask having “sensed” this amazing spot in Portugal.

08/04/2021

Client ❤️ for Mayakoba

Two families, two resorts, two very glowing reviews (and one delighted advisor). Wondering where you can snooze on the beach between chapters of a book, or ride jet skis, or sample the property’s complimentary daily beverage, or kayak in a lagoon, or listen to a band on the beach, or ride a very cool SeaBob, or have a butler that packs your bag, play on a PGA course, or take a private snorkel on a full-of-fish reef, or enjoy some yummy food, or dip in your private plunge pool or do nothing at all in a beach breeze? Mayakoba has 3 amazing options offering “all that” as they all share a natural wonderland. Numerous (and very good) dining options, a shared, groomed beach and 5 star resorts.

Direct flight from Charlotte is mighty nice too.

Pro tip: JJT has lots more happy traveler feedback from this part of the world - and would be honored to see if your family’s unique trip goals would be met here. You get lots of extras with JJT preferred partner relationships too.

03/18/2021

I “shore” did like my time in this Villa at Shore Club in the Turks and Caicos. This “what more do you need” villa converts to a 4, 5 or 6 bedroom. The real advantage to this villa over some others on the island? Other than the elevated aesthetic - it’s the Shore Club property that’s just out your gate. Several pools, bars, fitness center, restaurants (all more chic than the last) and, my favorite - the spa. Your butler will bring you breakfast and you have plentiful options both in and out of your villa for food and activities. The breeze on this part of Turks was like a Beyoncé video (if only my hair looked like hers after but ... ). All of it mighty lovely!!

Pro tip: there are 5 villas available - but no need to get the inside scoop on which is best - they are all furnished exactly the same. But at the spa : Be sure to ask for the Dune massage - it (and Emily who gave it) was the best!!

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03/05/2021

If I’m making a short list, I’ll give you some Blue Sky.

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02/13/2021

Smiles hiding behind these masks! So enjoyed our time at Lamala Mpingo Ridge. Here pictured with our guide Stephen and the “escorts” that kept watch on our paths from the Maasai village.