Spectacular Journeys

11/02/2024

Tropea, Calabria has one of the most charming towns and spectacular beaches in Italy! The beach in is known for its fine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, creating a picturesque setting that’s perfect for relaxation and enjoyment.
We are excited to announce that our charming Calabria Spectacular Journey extension is being offered in 2025.

You can add Calabria pre-trip to our Spectacular Sicily tour or post-trip to our Pretty Puglia tour. We can also add Calabria to any private trip!
Come join us in Tropea, Scilla & Pizzo in 2025!

10/15/2024

Amazing Oia, Santorini! One stop on our Gorgeous Greece Spectacular Journey. Join us in 2025 or let us curate a tailor-made trip just for you! Oia in Santorini is a charming village known for its stunning whitewashed buildings with blue domes, perched atop dramatic cliffs overlooking the azure Aegean Sea. It’s famous for its breathtaking sunsets, attracting visitors from all over the world. The narrow cobblestone streets are lined with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and traditional tavernas serving delicious Greek cuisine. Oia also offers picturesque views of the volcanic caldera and surrounding islands, making it a popular destination.

https://www.spectacularjourneys.com/gorgeous-greece

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10/14/2024

It’s Memorable Meals Monday at Spectacular Journeys. Today we highlight a restaurant we enjoyed on Santorini during our recent Gorgeous Greece tour. Fly Away Creative Restaurant in Imerovigli. The food was beautifully presented, the service was excellent and every dish was unique and delicious! We also enjoyed a fabulous sunset over the Caldera while here. We are definitely adding Fly Away to our recommended restaurant list.

10/13/2024

Get ready for our 2025 Spectacular Journeys small Group tours official launch! In just two short weeks we will be offering a promo code and priority to those signed on our website.

Our small groups are fun and fabulous in every way!

https://www.spectacularjourneys.com/

10/11/2024

It’s Foodie Friday at Spectacular Journeys. Today we share the amazing red onions of Calabria.

Red onions from Calabria are known for their mild sweet flavor with a spicy subtle kick, making them versatile for various dishes.

Grown in mineral rich soil the onions are perfect for enhancing many types of food. They are boiled, pickled, grilled to add a smoky depth and caramelized for sweetness. They are incorporated into just about everything, from salads, sauces, jams, soups, fritters, pizza and many other dishes

Calabrian red onions stand out for their vibrant color that adds a visual appeal to dishes. They also have a longer shelf life compared to other varieties, allowing you to enjoy them for an extended period. The red onions are celebrated throughout Calabria during festivals and street fairs.

Great news, we are adding an extension to Tropea, Calabria to both our Pretty Puglia and Spectacular Sicily small group Spectacular Journeys for 2025! Stay turned for more information during our upcoming 2025 tour launch.

We can also add Calabria to any private tour.

10/07/2024

Reggio Calabria, located in southern Italy, is a charming coastal city known for its rich and stunning views history of the Strait of Messina and Sicily. This vibrant city is home to the iconic Bronzi di Riace, two famous Greek statues that date back to the 5th century BC and are housed in the National Archaeological Museum of Reggio Calabria. Visitors can explore the historic city center with its beautiful architecture, stroll along the Lungomare promenade overlooking the sea, and indulge in delicious Calabrian cuisine featuring fresh seafood and local produce. Reggio Calabria offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and gastronomy, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic Italian experience.

Spectacular Journeys is offering an option to extend our Spectacular Sicily, Pretty Puglia or Amalfi Coast, Spectacular Journeys with few days in charming Calabria.

Reach out today for more information.

https://www.spectacularjourneys.com/

10/05/2024

Scilla is a charming coastal town located in the province of Reggio Calabria in Calab,ria Italy. Known for its picturesque landscape, Scilla sits on the Tyrrhenian Sea and is famous for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views of the Sicilian coastline. The town is also renowned for its traditional seafood cuisine, particularly swordfish, which you can enjoy in the local restaurants overlooking the sea. Scilla is home to a historic old town with narrow streets, colorful buildings, and the impressive Ruffo Castle perched on a rock overlooking the sea. The town’s relaxed atmosphere and warm hospitality make it a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful seaside getaway

Spectacular Journeys is offering a 3 night extension to Calabria on either our Pretty Puglia or Spectacular Sicily small group tours in 2025!

Subscribe to our website and reach out for more information! https://www.spectacularjourneys.com/

10/03/2024

Nestled along the stunning coastline of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Tropea in Calabria is a picturesque town that effortlessly combines natural beauty with rich history. Visitors are captivated by the striking contrast of the azure waters against the white sandy beaches, creating a postcard-perfect setting for relaxation and water activities. The town’s historical charm is evident in its medieval buildings and the iconic Santa Maria dell’Isola church, perched dramatically on a rocky cliff overlooking the sea. Beyond its scenic landscapes, Tropea delights food enthusiasts with its delectable local cuisine, showcasing fresh seafood dishes, flavorful gelato, and traditional Calabrian fare. This blend of coastal splendor, historical treasures, and culinary delights makes Tropea a captivating destination for travelers seeking a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration.

We will be adding Tropea as an extension option to both our Spectacular Sicily and Pretty Puglia small group Spectacular Journeys in 2025!

Sign up on our website for priority access and discounts.

We can also add Calabria to any private tour you are doing.

https://www.spectacularjourneys.com/

10/02/2024

Where in Europe are Spectacular Journeys clients exploring this week?

It’s an exciting time for Spectacular Journeys! We’re concluding a small group tour in Greece, unwinding in the stunning Cyclades islands of Mykonos, Paros, and Santorini.

We have two honeymoon couples—one discovering Greece and Portugal, while the other savors the charm of the French Riviera and Sicily.

A family of six is having a blast with their adventures in the Azores.

Additionally, two couples, who are loyal clients are each traveling as well.

One couple is meandering through the picturesque towns of Puglia, while enjoying cooking classes, an olive oil experience and dining in the Cave restaurant, Grotta Palazzese in Polignano a Mare. The other couple soaked in the festive spirit of Oktoberfest in Munich before strolling through Paris and gearing up for a few days in Amsterdam.

Now is the ideal moment to have us plan your own private European escapade for 2025. Share your European dreams with us, and we will turn them into an unforgettable Spectacular Journey!

We are in the process of finalizing and tweaking some dates for our 2025 Small Group Spectacular Journeys. Get ready for our official launchby subscribing to our website.

https://www.spectacularjourneys.com/

Best Small Group & Private Travel To Europe!

09/22/2024

Where in Europe are Spectacular Journeys clients?

In the last 2 weeks we had 2 separate couples celebrating their anniversaries on the Amalfi Coast.

2 couples who are great friends enjoyed a trip to Greece, visiting Santorini, Milo’s and Paros.

A family of 3 went to Palma de Mallorca for some relaxation and adventure.

A family of 5 who started in Rome for a wedding and then went to Portugal, visiting Porto, Lisbon and the Algarve.

Our Spectacular Journeys small group tours to Sicily was truly Spectacular in every way! Our Spectacular Journeys Rome/Sorrento/Capri and Amalfi Coast small group tour was fun & fabulous and we really enjoyed meeting new travelers and reconnecting with old friends!

Are you ready for a privately curated Spectacular Journey?

Or would you like to join one of our small group tours?

Now is the time to plan your 2025 European Vacation!

Reach out today.

08/22/2024

Where in Europe are Spectacular Journeys clients? Our clients are currently scattered across Europe, indulging in the rich experiences each destination has to offer. This week, a family of four is savoring the art and history of Rome, Florence, and Milan, while another family of five is basking in the romantic ambiance of Paris and the scenic beauty of the Amalfi Coast. Not far away, a couple is immersed in the charm of Croatia, and loving every minute of their time there. Yet another family is reveling in the tranquility and various activities that Tuscany has in store, and are heading to Venice shortly.

Give us your European dreams and we will turn them into a Spectacular Journey!


Are you ready to plan your 2025 Spectacular Journey?
We have the pre-launch of our small group tours available now to website subscribers. We are available to plan privately for you all year long.

08/20/2024

Brand New Spectacular Journey!

Spectacular Journeys is heading to Puglia!
Come discover the hidden gems of this stunning region as we delve into its most iconic and unique towns. Indulge in delicious Pugliese food and wine, marvel at the Baroque beauty of Lecce, explore the enchanting Trulli houses of the Valle d’Itria, visit the picturesque coastal towns along the Adriatic, and experience the mystical allure of Matera.

We are just about ready to pre-launch our 2025 Spectacular Journeys.

You must be subscribed to our website for priority access and to get discount code.

We have put together a truly Spectacular trip to Puglia! Come join us!

https://www.spectacularjourneys.com/puglia

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08/17/2024

It’s Foodie Friday at Spectacular Journeys! Today we recall the Nonnas of Bari making Orecchiette. In old town historic Bari, Italy, a port city on the Adriatic Sea, you can find out how it’s really done. Who better to teach you than some real-life, Italian “nonnas” (grandmas)? Their pasta-making technique has been passed down through generations and perfected over lifetimes of practice. In fact, it’s older than the alleyway where they set up shop.
On Strada Arco Basso (or more commonly known as Via delle Orecchiette)! Along this street, around twelve grandmas sit at long, wooden tables, laughing and chatting whilst they make their specialty- orecchiette- that Bari has become known for.
Impressed tourists marvel at the speed and expertise of the women, who roll out dough, cut it into small pieces, and use fingers and knives to create tiny “ears” and ridges that Italian sauce can stick to.

We will be doing a Spectacular Journey to Puglia in 2025! Sign up on our website for priority access and a discount. We will be doing a pre-launch soon!

Let’s watch the “Nonna’s” craft the orecchiette and then enjoy a fresh pasta lunch with a view!

08/15/2024

Ferragosto is a traditional Italian holiday celebrated on August 15th. 🇮🇹 It originated as a festival to mark the peak of the summer harvest season and is now a time for people to come together with family and friends to enjoy meals,, gatherings and often head to the beach or countryside for relaxation. It’s a day full of feasting, music, and merriment, and many businesses and shops may be closed as people take time to celebrate.
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08/14/2024

Where in Europe are Spectacular Journeys clients.

Currently, we have three different families that are each enjoying their own unique adventures throughout Italy.

The first family of four began their journey in Rome, explored the wonders of Florence and the Tuscan countryside, and will soon be indulging in the delicious delights of the “foodie capital” of Emilia Romagna. They will end their trip with some relaxation time at the beach in Cervia on the Adriatic Sea.

The second family of four is also having a fabulous time exploring the beauty of Ischia, Maiori, and Sorrento. They are taking in the stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, enjoying a lovely coastal boat ride, and participating in the ultimate cooking class. In addition, they are visiting a winery nestled at the foothills of Mt. Vesuvius and taking a day trip to the enchanting island of Capri.

Finally, we have another family of four beginning their journey in Rome and heading to a peaceful Tuscan village for cooking classes and winery visits. They will conclude their spectacular journey in the fairytale city of Venice.

Planning on a trip to Europe in 2024 or 2025…give us your Mediterranean dreams and we will turn them into a Spectacular Journey!

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08/04/2024

Get excited for our 2025 Spectacular Journeys! We will be doing our pre-launch in just a few weeks. Subscribe to our website for priority access and discounts.

Best Small Group & Private Travel To Europe!
https://www.spectacularjourneys.com/

Amazing Amalfi & Stunning Sorrento
Spectacular Spain
Pretty Portugal
Gorgeous Greece
Charming Croatia
Spectacular Sicily
Perfect Puglia
Captivating Canaries
Fabulous France
Iconic Italian Lakes
Ultimate Tuscany Food & Wine

Private trips planned throughout the year!

08/02/2024

It’s Foodie Friday at Spectacular Journeys. Today we highlight some of the delicious sweet treats we have enjoyed while in Europe. From the perfect Cannolo in Castelmola, to the magnificent Maritozzo in Rome. From the spiral shaped fluffy pastry Ensaimada in Palma de Mallorca to pistachio cream stuffed Sfogliatelle in Palermo. From colorful macarons in France to the honey filled Loukamades in Crete. From the traditional Cassatella di sant’Agata in Catania to orange pie and baklava in Paros. From the ultimate Pastel de Nata in Belem, Lisbon to the award winning Panettone from Fiasconaro in Castelbuono.

Don’t miss the local specialties that enhance every trip to Europe.

Are you still planning to travel in 2024? Are you ready to plan 2025? Reach out today with your European travel dreams and we will turn them into a Spectacular Journey!

07/29/2024

It’s Memorable Meals Monday at Spectacular Journeys! Today we recall a wonderful meal in Alvor, Portugal. “ADEGA D’ALVOR RESTAURANTE is one of Alvor’s most outstanding restaurants! Cosy atmosphere & beautiful indoor garden. A complimentary glass of champagne to start a beautiful evening. This stunning converted winery is renown for first class food, service & wonderful local specialities: Mediterranean tapas, fish soup etc. followed by many varieties of grilled tiger prawns, delicious lobsters, mixed seafood plate, pots of steaming seafood rice, Argentinian fillet steaks or tender stone steaks, rack of lamb, T-bone steak or traditional roast lamb etc. Open Kitchen. Large range of national & local wines. Very reasonable prices for unmatched quality.”

Did you know Spectacular Journeys will be doing 2 small group tours in 2025 and planning many private trips for our clients.

Subscribe to our website to get priority access and discounts for 2025 tours. https://www.spectacularjourneys.com/

07/17/2024

Amazing Azores, our newest blog post from content provider Wendy Klarman is now available on our website. https://www.spectacularjourneys.com/post/amazing-azores
The Azores are an archipelago of nine beautiful islands in middle of the Atlantic Ocean approximately 1, kilometers west of Lisbon,. These volcanic islands known for their stunning beauty, with lush green, volcanic mountain ranges and crystal clear waters The Azores also have rich cultural heritage, a vibrant music and arts, and delicious local, including dishes made fresh seafood and local cheeses If you’re looking an adventure, the Azores offer a wide range outdoor activities, such hiking, whale watching, swimming with dolphins.

Let Spectacular Journeys add the Azores to your next trip to Portugal or enjoy the Azores as a solo destination.

07/15/2024

It’s Memorable Meals Monday at Spectacular Journeys. One of our favorite eats in Europe are mixed boards of meats and cheeses, sometimes seafood and other combos. Locally sourced delicious and beautifully arranged boards make for a great appetizer or meal and give us much delight as we sample our way through these platters!

In this post are photos from Rome, Taormina, Nice, France, Bologna, Tuscany, Ortigia and Split Croatia!

Heading to Europe in 2024 or 2025 reach out today! Give us your European dreams and we will turn them into a Spectacular Journey!

07/04/2024

07/03/2024

Where in Europe are Spectacular Journeys Clients? This week, we have a newly engaged couple enjoying the Amalfi Coast, another couple beginning their journey in Amalfi and then exploring Rome and Sorrento.
Additionally, we have a family of four who are celebrating a high school graduation in Paris and London, including an experience of watching the sunset from the inner circle of Stonehenge. There is also a couple embarking on a post-cruise extension in Athens with a delightful day tour to the picturesque island of Aegina. Lastly, a couple is adding a French Riviera vacation to a family members, destination wedding in Croatia.

Thinking about traveling to Europe? Give us your European dreams and we will turn them into a Spectacular Journey!

07/02/2024

It’s Memorable Meals Monday at Spectacular Journeys. Today we recall a fabulous lunch in the Praia do Guincho area of Cascais Portugal. At Restaurante Mar do Guincho we enjoyed our first Cataplana de Marisco. This is a traditional seafood dish from Portugal that is named after the copper utensil in which it is cooked, called a “cataplana.” It typically consists of various types of seafood, such as fish, prawns, clams, lobster and mussels, all cooked in a stew with onions, tomatoes, and herbs. This fragrant and flavorful dish is a must-try for seafood lovers! The views of the beach were incredible and every morsel of food delicious!

06/27/2024

The Ribeira neighborhood is located in the historic center of Porto, Portugal, along the banks of the Douro River. It’s known for its vibrant and colorful atmosphere, with narrow streets lined with homes, cafes, and restaurants. One of the of highlights the neighborhood is the Ribeira Square, a lively plaza where locals and visitors gather to take in the sights and sounds. From here, you can also catch a boat tour up the river to see the famous port wine cellars.
The Dom Luis Bridge is an iconic bridge that crosses the Douro River in Porto. It was designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel and completed in 1886. The bridge features two levels, with the upper level being used for cars and pedestrians and the lower level used for trains. From the bridge, you’ll get some of the best views of Porto and the Douro River.

The Monastery of Serra do Pilar is a historic landmark located just across the river from Porto. It was built in the 16th century and is known for its circular cloister and impressive dome. It offers stunning views of Porto and the Douro River.

Sign up on our website now for priority access to our 2025 small group tour of pretty Portugal! We do private planning throughout the year.
https://www.spectacularjourneys.com/

06/24/2024

It’s Memorable Meals Monday at Spectacular Journeys. Today we recall a fabulous meal in Cascais, Portugal. The gourmet restaurant at the Cascais Miragem Hotel was a wonderful gastronomic treat! From the various locally baked breads paired with amazing olive oils from around the country to the amazing desserts we enjoyed every morsel!

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