Nan Knows Travel

06/14/2026

This is why Italy will always be Italy.
Where else can your day begin with a nearly 2,000-year-old Colosseum still standing after emperors, gladiators, earthquakes nearly ruined it. Now it is ruins. “Is this where Russell Crowe worked?” And imagine hearing Pope Leo pray the Sunday Angelus, his traditional noon prayer and address from St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican.
My special clients have spent the few weeks traveling from Venice to Sicily to Rome, and their celebrity sightings have been better than the Oscars.
First, Helen Mirren in Taormina, Sicily, casually getting out of her car waving to them like a queen. Hmm or was she shooing them off? Ancient ruins, movie royalty, and the Pope — all before hotel check-in. Italy is not just a destination. It is a full production of history, beauty, food, faith, drama, celebrities, espresso, and moments you could never plan if you tried.

06/05/2026

Your sanctuary at sea awaits. Step aboard Crystal for elegant evenings, world-class dining, and unforgettable destinations—where the crew knows you by name. Explore the voyage of a lifetime here: https://inspires.to/experiences/the-crystal-experience-the-voyage-of-a-lifetime-pj708k

Welcome to your sanctuary at sea

06/05/2026

Breathless views

06/05/2026

Santorini with a side of cardio…

The Private Cave Pool Suite at Andronis Boutique Hotel may be one of the most romantic suites in Greece. Private pool, jaw-dropping caldera views, spectacular sunsets from bed, and the kind of setting that honeymooners and anniversary couples dream about.
One small detail. Reaching the Cave Pool Suite required descending about 72 steps. I considered it a complimentary fitness program. Getting back up was my cardio workout for the day and possibly the week.
But trust me, once you’re soaking in your private cave pool overlooking the caldera, you’ll decide those 72 steps were the best investment you made all vacation.
I highly recommend this hotel.
Santorini is where the views take your breath away and the stairs and steps throughout the island finish the job.

06/01/2026

What do you get when a world-class art collection, a glamorous neoclassical mansion, and Acropolis Parthenon view share the same address? The Dolli. With Picasso and Cocteau art displayed as naturally as fresh flowers, this unique Athens hotel creates a stay that leaves you wondering whether you stepped into a hotel or into the most beautiful dream Athens has to offer.

05/30/2026

Crystal Had Me at Butter

My last Crystal cruise was more than a decade ago, so I boarded with curiosity and high expectations. I’m happy to report that Crystal Serenity exceeded them.
In fact, Crystal had me at La Conviette butter. That may sound like an unusual measure of luxury, but seasoned travelers know the little things tell the story. Crystal serves rich, creamy La Conviette butter from Normandy, and after one bite I thought, Someone here understands quality. My theory has always been that if a company invests in exceptional butter, they’re probably investing in exceptional ingredients everywhere else.
The dining was excellent in every restaurant, the service warm and attentive, and the ship impeccably maintained. One evening at Osteria d’Ovidio, we splurged on a beautifully aged Pio Cesare Barolo, expertly decanted and served in magnificent stemware. The presentation was so grand I wasn’t sure whether to drink the wine or stand and applaud it.

I can confidently say Crystal has reclaimed its place among the very very best.

05/29/2026

Crystal Cruises-They Had Me at BUTTER
(and Barolo)
My last Crystal cruise was more than a decade ago, so I boarded Crystal Serenity curious to see how the new Crystal measured up.
Crystal exceeded my expectations.
In fact, Crystal “had me” at La Conviette Butter and Barolo.
That may sound unusual, but experienced travelers know the little things matter. One of my biggest dining disappointments is bland, forgettable butter. Crystal serves the exceptional French La Conviette butter, produced in Normandy and prized for its rich flavor and creamy texture. When a cruise line invests in butter of that quality, it’s usually a sign that quality ingredients are a priority throughout the restaurants onboard. The dining was consistently excellent, but one evening at Osteria d’Ovidio stood out. A fine Barolo was expertly decanted and served in beautiful generously sized wine glass designed to maximize the wine’s bouquet and complexity. It wasn’t just wine service—it was an unforgettable experience.
Beyond the food, the service was warm, polished, and remarkably attentive. The ship is beautifully maintained, elegant and exceptionally comfortable.
After sailing many luxury cruise lines over the years, I can confidently say Crystal has an edge on luxury cruising. 'Ovidio