Memories of 2016 – The Places We’ve Been – The Places We Will Go
It’s hard to believe another year is coming to a close. The months have flown by – why is that as you get older, time goes by quicker and quicker? Sometimes I think that it’s a good idea to slow down a little but then I wouldn’t get to see and do all the amazing things I have this year.
So much travel, so little time 🙂
At this time of year, as the weather gets colder and the holidays approach, many of us spend time reflecting on the year that is coming to an end. It’s also the perfect time to spend with friends and family and reflect on the moments – the good and the “not” so good times.
I also fully believe that this is the time of year to think about what you have done for yourself. If you didn’t take time for yourself, if you spent the year focused on work or family, take a moment for yourself. Promise yourself that this coming year, you will take care of you!
As always, I feel very fortunate to be able to offer people the opportunity to find time for themselves. Traveling is one of the best ways to commit to self-care, even if it’s only for a week.
I’m also excited to announce that we have new connections in brand new locations and I’m so happy to add Ireland and Sicily to the Delectable Destination collection of tours in 2017 and a possible surprise trip to Holland. Stay tuned!
I am presently in Asia to top the year off but wanted to share 2016 in photos and some of our favourite moments.
We started off the year in India and as always, a magnificent experience! We visited Darjeeling and stayed at the beautiful Glenburn Tea Estate. Top photo: Meeting up with the friendly locals – tea leaf pickers – on the rolling hills of Glenburn. Lower photo: Great fun with my guests in Jaipur “the pink city” at the beautiful Amber Fort.
I had the opportunity to visit Ireland in the Spring. Photo was taken in County Donegal at the Cliffs of Slieve League – absolutely breathtaking! My first visit and definitely not my last! A Delectable Destinations tour is planned for September 2017. Hope you will join me!
There is no better testimonial than when guests return on another trip – last year was the Amalfi Coast and next year they plan to meet me in Tuscany! In this case, Beth and Beverly are here with me in Andalucia, Spain this past Spring. A beautiful stay at the stunning El Carligto Villa Estate and a lovely Flamenco night!
Spring on the Amalfi Coast…need I say more! What an amazing 3 weeks! Top photo: Vineyard visit at Reale in Tramonti and pizza night with Luigi (the fun guy laying down and the vineyard owner!). Second photo: Cooking day at Mamma Agata. Family week celebrating a “big” birthday and what a party is was. It was an honour to plan this special week for Susan and her fun family! Third photo: Having a blast at Our Recipe for Reinvention week with Chef Rachel Reuben…loved our week! For all you ladies looking for something really special to do for yourself, book this week as a gift for YOU. Dates on website!
I was thrilled to return to Andalucia, Spain in the Fall with my guests. Top photo: Beautiful ladies with our very own private Chef David at El Carligto Villa Estate. This was before the paella and wine! Second photo: The stunning grounds of our villa…serenity, luxurious with sublime views. No doubt it has been on the Condé Nast Gold list for the past 4 years.
Traveling in Italy in the Fall is my favorite time of year, the harvest, the colors, the food!… and being back in Florence was extra special as I had some time on my own. Photography is my passion and I was able to get a great shot of the city. Was thrilled when BBC Travel picked it up on Instagram and it got over 10,000 likes! Second photo: I never leave Tuscany without visiting Chef Veronica. My guests loved their market tour and cooking class at Villa La Quercia. Third photo: Back in Amalfi to end our Fall tour season and a visit to Le Vigne di Raito is one of the highlights of the week. Time spent with owner, Patrizia and her wonderful, animated, lovely guide and host, Alfonso is such a joy!
Ciao from Amalfi! Wishing everyone a very Happy Holiday season! May the new year bring us all health, happiness, love, friendships and peace for the world. To my repeat guests and new ones, I wish you all memories that will last a lifetime!
Hope to see you on a Delectable Destinations adventure in 2017!
Carol Ketelson is the owner and operator of Delectable Destinations LLC. Dedicated to planning, co-ordinating and curating customized group tours to hand-picked destinations. As an experienced travel planner, Carol’s customized itineraries, specialized tours and off-the-beaten-path experiences create memorable journeys for her small groups of singles, couples, divorced, widowed and solo travelers seeking exceptional trips into the culture and cuisine of destinations around the world. Spring and Fall bookings invite travelers to taste delectable local cuisine, culturally rich traditions and mesmerizing sights. For over 10 years, Carol’s tours have captured the true essence of Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, Puglia, Spain, Ireland and India.
Delectable Destinations…Delivering your dream trip. For more information & 2017 trips log onto: delectabledestinations.com
