Category: Food and Wine

Historic Guildhall and cannons along Derry’s ancient city walls under soft Irish light — a blend of history and elegance captured for Ghostly Glamour Ireland, curated by Fort Collins luxury travel advisor Amore Travel Designs.

GHOSTLY GLAMOUR IRELAND

I’ve wandered through countless European streets, but Derry’s felt… alive. The kind of alive that makes you glance over your shoulder—half expecting a poet, half expecting a ghost. Ghostly Glamour Ireland captures that perfect blend of eerie history and refined beauty. Behind its medieval walls, stories of sieges and spirits linger like Irish mist. But beyond the whispers, there’s modern elegance—boutique hotels in restored mansions, candlelit whiskey bars, and private tours that trace centuries of legend. As a Fort Collins luxury travel advisor, I curate Derry escapes that balance history’s chill with Ireland’s warmth.

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Colorful half-timbered castle in the forests of Transylvania, Romania, surrounded by lush green trees under a bright blue sky — a perfect setting for a luxury haunted getaway curated by Fort Collins travel advisor Amore Travel Designs

TRANSYLVANIA UNVEILED

Transylvania Unveiled isn’t your average Halloween story. This is where legend meets luxury — think candlelit castles, velvet-lined carriages, and fog that curls through Carpathian valleys. I wandered here chasing whispers of Dracula but found a world far more human — a land of art, wine, and heritage wrapped in old-world mystique. From Sibiu’s pastel facades to Bran Castle’s silhouette at dusk, Transylvania seduces with its contrasts. For Fort Collins travelers craving something beyond the predictable, this is Europe’s most cinematic secret. I can help you experience its haunted heart — minus the tourist clichés.

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SECRET BOLOGNA EXPERIENCE

Richard and I were traveling through Bologna and I found the most special farmhouse/cooking class in the countryside of Bologna. The owners were lovely, engaging and we were in awe of the whole experience. A husband-and-wife team running a farm, restaurant, cooking school, and a B&B as well. This secret Bologna experience has stayed on top of our minds every time we think of Italy.

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Historic arcades of Bologna, Italy captured on a luxury trip planned by the #1 travel advisor in Fort Collins, Amore Travel Designs

EAT DRIVE REPEAT

Everyone starts with Tuscany. And honestly, it’s lovely. But when I traveled to Emilia Romagna, something shifted. This wasn’t postcard Italy—it was deeper, richer, more surprising. There’s a rhythm here that’s slower but sharper. It’s not trying to impress. It just does. I didn’t come here for crowds or photo ops. I came for legacy. And what I found was a place where food, history, and horsepower all share the spotlight. Eat Drive Repeat wasn’t the plan—it became the motto. The meals stuck with me. The people left an impression. And the cars? They roared. If you’ve been to Italy once, this is where you go next. Trust me, you’ll never look at prosciutto—or a racetrack—the same way again.

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Traditional trulli houses in Puglia, Italy, featured as a luxury travel alternative to the Amalfi Coast in a curated itinerary by Amore Travel Designs.

UNCOVERING EUROPES HIDDEN DELIGHTS

Traveling with friends is the ultimate way to explore and experience the world. When it comes to Europe, there’s no shortage of enchanting hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From lesser-known wine regions to secret art enclaves, the continent is filled with delightful surprises that will captivate the senses. So we will be uncovering Europe’s hidden delights together on an unforgettable journey.

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Michelin restaurant

EPICUREAN ADVENTURES

Embark on a tantalizing journey filled with exquisite flavors and culinary excellence, as we unveil the world’s most stunning destinations for food aficionados. Our guide highlights the luxurious experience of dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, where art and gastronomy intertwine to create unforgettable moments of indulgence. Let’s explore some epicurean adventures together.

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Napa Valley

NAPA VALLEY ESCAPE

Dreaming of a luxurious Napa Valley escape? We’ve curated the top five must-visit spots and accommodations for an unforgettable trip. Napa Valley, renowned for its world-class wineries and stunning landscapes, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a foodie, or simply seeking a serene retreat, Napa Valley has something special for you. Let’s dive into the best places to visit and stay in this enchanting region!

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Tuscany countryside cheers

DELVING INTO TUSCANY

Once we hit the mainland after our recent Sardinia and Corsica trip, it was our mission to travel through the rural Tuscan Countryside avoiding the big cities. You almost certainly need to take advantage of a car rental to appreciate as much of this area as you can, unless you want to stay at a single location. Read on as we continue delving into Tuscany.

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ENCHANTING CORSICA

Corsica is a Mediterranean gem, boasting stunning landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. This is where the French go for their vacations and is perfect for a luxury getaway. Its blend of rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and charming villages creates a unique destination. Our recent trip was a voyage of discovery to this island. Here are the top five resorts in Corsica that offer unparalleled luxury, unforgettable experiences and help to uncover enchanting Corsica.

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Sardinian coast

DISCOVER SARDINIA

Sardinia, Italy’s second-largest island, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and luxury. Picture-perfect beaches, turquoise waters, and rugged landscapes await. The southern part of the island has beautiful beaches, some only reachable by a hike or boat, but much quieter as a result. The popular Costa Smeralda on the northern part of the island is a luxurious paradise popular with the yachting community and a retreat for celebrities and royalty. Let’s explore the top resorts to visit in this Mediterranean paradise as we discover Sardinia.

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Culinary Delights - Aperitifs - Hotel Recommendations - Experiences

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