I can't believe it's October already! If you're like me, you're asking yourself - "Where the heck did the summer go?" It came and went so darn quickly, it almost seems like we skipped it altogether.
Now the kids are back in school, there's a crispness in the air and some of the leaves are already turning, which are all sure signs that fall has arrived. And that just happens to be one of my favorite times of year to travel to Italy and France.
The crowds have thinned out, temps will be a bit more comfortable and locals are back from their vacations and are gearing up for the wine and olive harvests.
In this issue, I share some tips for wine-lovers who want to tour and taste at wineries. Also, my free travel resource is back and I'm sharing a few fun ways for us to connect.
Happy Travels!
Robin xo
tips for wine touring and tasting in tuscany
One of the most popular reasons travelers head to Tuscany, other than to appreciate the gorgeous scenery, is for the wine. Many people would like to just hop in the car and wing it - but there are some things that you should know first.
Although these tips were written specifically for Tuscany - you can apply much of my practical advice to any wine region in France or Italy. Click here to read more.
free travel resource
It's been a while since I shared a free travel resource with you. So this month I'm making up for it in a big way. I've got a totally cool translation app to share.
Word Lens isn't your typical app where you talk or type text to translate it. Instead it works using your smartphone's camera. You just snap a picture of printed text and the app translates it.
This could be really handy when you come across important warning signs or for translating menus - because you do remember that the best places to eat are those without menus translated into twelve languages, right!?
If you happen to download it and take it for a spin, make sure you pop by my Facebook page and let me know your thoughts!
travel photo fun
Psssst. I've got a secret for you -travel should be fun! Ok, save the actual entire airport experience and being personally violated by the TSA, but everything else should be fun.
I know, it seems so obvious, but it's easy to lose sight of it when in the midst of planning a trip. Overwhelmed with choices, bogged down in the details, worried about your budget or if your hotel is going to have bedbugs - it can be enough to make you forget that you're supposed to be having F.U.N.
I can relate. I LOVE what I do, but even I need to follow my own advice and take some time to put some more fun in my day when I'm planning travel for my clients.
Lately I've been uping the fun quotient by spending some time on two of my fave social networks that are all about the photos. And let's be honest - Italy and France offer bazillions of great photo ops! And remember, a picture is worth a thousand words - and sometimes you just don't have time to read, but it only takes a second to appreciate a gorgeous photo.
So whether you need inspiration for your own vacay, want to relive a past trip or you prefer having a bit of fun dreaming about where to go when you hit the lottery- here are two spots where you can follow along.
Pinterest
I've been busy creating lots of boards on Pinterest. Some are destination specific, like Paris, Amalfi Coast and Venice.
I have tons of my own photos from my France and Italy travels to share on Instagram - and I especially love all the different filters! But I actually discovered an easy way to share YOUR fab France and Italy photos in my feed, so I'll be experimenting with that.
All you need to do is follow me on Instagram, and when you share a photo, include the hashtag #MelangeTravel in the description. I'll be searching that hashtag and I'll repost my faves :)
Video Bonus
Speaking of travel fun - I can't resist sharing this hilarious video with you! The residents of Castrovalva Italy put together a video to promote their tiny town in Abruzzo. It's set to Donna Summer's 'Hot Stuff' and chock full of funny moments and hand gestures. Click here to watch.
