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Planning a trip to Provence, France? Before you book your summer getaway, there’s one month I would seriously consider instead of July or August: September, when you can enjoy warm, sunny days, beautiful villages, seasonal food, and vineyard experiences with fewer crowds and a more relaxed pace. In this episode, I’m sharing why September is one of my favorite times to explore Provence, from the beautiful hilltop villages of Gordes and Aix-en-Provence to the coastal charm of Cassis and the traditional Provençal markets. I’ll take you through what the weather is really like, whether the sea is still warm enough for swimming, what remains open, and why exploring the region becomes so much more enjoyable when you’re not constantly battling the summer crowds. September is also a wonderful time for food and wine lovers. Think seasonal menus, fresh produce from local markets, outdoor lunches beneath the olive trees, spectacular sunsets, and the grape harvest bringing Provence’s vineyards to life. I’ll share some of my own experiences from spending September in the region and explain why this season offers such a special way to discover authentic Provence. But September isn’t perfect for everyone. I’ll explain the biggest trade-off, including why you’ll miss the lavender fields, how the beginning of September differs from the end, and exactly when I would plan a trip to Provence if I had complete flexibility. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a French countryside escape, or a longer trip through southern France, this episode will help you choose the best time to visit Provence and plan a trip that makes the most of everything this beautiful region has to offer. Link to the YouTube video on CASSIS FRANCE - Top 5 SOUTH OF FRANCE Destinations - https://youtu.be/7YldWnqZ3Xk?si=zCp8f1KGz4CocGXZ Link to the YouTube video on Gordes, France: Is THIS the MOST BEAUTIFUL Village in PROVENCE? - https://youtu.be/j2zqobt6Ddo?si=tcGM501xKel-9Xkv __ 0:00 The Best Time to Visit Provence, France (It’s NOT Summer!) 2:15 Provence in July and August: Heat, Crowds & High Prices 5:03 Provence in September: Weather, Crowds & What’s Open 7:37 Exploring Provence: Hilltop Villages, Markets & Outdoor Dining 8:56 Provence Food & Wine: Seasonal Menus and Grape Harvest 12:58 Visiting Provence in September: The Lavender Season Trade-Off 13:42 The Best Time in September to Visit Provence, France 15:39 Planning a Provence Itinerary: Gordes, Aix-en-Provence & Cassis __ Connect with me:  Fabulous Vita Travel Agency : ⁠https://fabulousvita.com Fabulous Vita Reviews : https://www.trustpilot.com/review/fabulousvita.com Youtube Channel : ⁠https://youtube.com/c/StayFabulousTL⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anastasiya.gorshkova/

Planning a trip to Greece in 2027? Before you decide which Greek islands to visit, there are three destinations you should have on your radar. Milos, Paros, and Naxos are already seeing growing international interest, and everything I’m seeing points to even more U.S. travelers discovering them in the years ahead. In this episode, I’m breaking down why these three Greek islands are gaining so much attention, what the latest travel trends are telling us, and what I’m personally seeing while traveling throughout Greece. From Milos’ otherworldly landscapes and secluded beaches to the rapid transformation of Paros and Naxos’ accelerating popularity, I’ll explain what makes each island different and what growing demand could mean for your 2027 Greece itinerary. I’ll also share what I’ve witnessed firsthand after spending six summers on Paros, working with local partners across the Greek islands, and watching destinations like Milos and Naxos change in real time. Most importantly, I’ll explain why booking early matters if you want the best hotels, villas, private boat tours, guides, cooking classes, wine tastings, and other authentic Greek island experiences. Whether you’re planning your first trip to Greece, returning for another Greek island vacation, or trying to decide between Milos, Paros, Naxos, and the more established favorites like Santorini and Mykonos, this episode will help you understand where demand is heading and how to plan ahead before availability becomes the problem. And if you’re already overwhelmed by the number of Greek islands, ferry connections, accommodations, and experiences to choose from, I’ll also share how I approach these decisions when creating bespoke Greece itineraries for my clients at Fabulous Vita. Because when an island starts becoming the next big thing, the best time to plan your trip is usually before everyone else catches up. Link to the YouTube video on Is Paros Becoming the Next Mykonos? - https://youtu.be/0fe8Y0nLlqI?si=1XqsYzFHIvOIyN0i Link to the YouTube video on HOW TO PLAN YOUR FIRST TRIP TO GREECE - EVERYTHING You Need To Know! - https://youtu.be/vmWnIGmCOJg?si=v8g794_JaFS4v0dn __ 0:00 3 Greek Islands U.S. Travelers Will Be Booking in 2027 2:16 Milos in 2027: Why U.S. Travelers Are Discovering It 4:35 Paros in 2027: Is It Becoming the Next Mykonos? 8:32 Naxos: The Greek Island Set to Explode in Popularity 10:01 Milos vs Paros vs Naxos: Which Greek Island Is Right for You? 10:36 Greek Island Hotels, Boat Tours & Experiences: Book Early 11:18 Planning Your 2027 Greece Itinerary: Where Should You Start? __ Connect with me:  Fabulous Vita Travel Agency : ⁠https://fabulousvita.com Fabulous Vita Reviews : https://www.trustpilot.com/review/fabulousvita.com Youtube Channel : ⁠https://youtube.com/c/StayFabulousTL⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anastasiya.gorshkova/

If you’re planning to visit Italy in September or October because you’ve heard they’re the “perfect” months for fewer crowds, lower prices, and easier reservations, there’s something you need to know: that version of the Italian shoulder season is quickly becoming a thing of the past. In this episode, I’m breaking down what Italy in September and October actually looks like today, from the crowds and hotel prices to restaurant reservations, private guides, coastal destinations, and the reality of planning a fall trip. I’ll explain why September can still feel like summer, why October is a completely different experience depending on where you go, and why some of Italy’s most popular destinations remain incredibly busy well into the fall. I’ll also share why I personally love October in Tuscany, from crisp mornings and golden vineyards to white truffles, freshly pressed olive oil, seasonal food, and, of course, a good glass of Tuscan red wine. But I’ll also explain why the answer to “Is fall still a good time to visit Italy?” isn’t as simple as it used to be. Most importantly, I’ll share how far in advance you should actually plan an Italy trip for September or October if you want the best hotels, room categories, guides, experiences, and restaurants, rather than simply choosing from whatever is still available. So if you’re considering Italy in the fall, planning your first trip to Italy, or trying to decide between September and October, this episode will help you understand what these months really offer and how to plan around the new reality of Italy’s increasingly popular shoulder season. Because September and October haven’t become bad months to visit Italy. They’ve simply become misunderstood. The key is knowing what to expect, where to go, and when to start planning. __ 0:00 Italy in September & October: The Shoulder Season Myth 2:28 Why Italy’s Shoulder Season Is No Longer Quiet 7:58 September in Italy: Crowds, Weather & Prices 10:32 October in Italy: What Actually Changes? 11:25 Why October in Tuscany Is So Special 14:18 Are September & October Still the Best Months to Visit Italy? 16:01 How Far in Advance Should You Plan Italy in September or October? 18:27 The New Reality of Fall Travel in Italy __ Connect with me:  Fabulous Vita Travel Agency : ⁠https://fabulousvita.com Youtube Channel : ⁠https://youtube.com/c/StayFabulousTL⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anastasiya.gorshkova/

If you’re planning a trip to Greece, don’t make the mistake of thinking the Greek islands are simply about beautiful beaches, sunsets, and great restaurants. The experiences you choose can completely change the way you remember your trip. After years of traveling throughout the Greek islands, I’ve discovered that some of my most unforgettable memories have come from being out on the water, sitting around a family table learning to cook traditional Greek food, discovering local craftsmanship, tasting wine among the vineyards, and seeing an island through the eyes of someone who truly calls it home. In this episode, I’m sharing the five Greek island experiences I believe are genuinely worth building into your Greece itinerary, from private boat days and hidden coves to authentic cooking classes, local guides, Greek wine tastings, and discovering the traditions that make each island unique. I’ll also share some of my favorite personal experiences from across Greece, including secluded beaches in Milos, an unforgettable family cooking experience in Ios, handmade Greek sandals in Syros and Paros, and the extraordinary vineyards of Tinos. Plus, I’ll reveal a few unexpected experiences you can arrange on the Greek islands, from horseback riding in the sea and helicopter rides to kitesurfing, yoga, and private dining in your villa. Whether you’re planning your first trip to Greece, returning to a favorite island, or simply trying to decide which experiences are actually worth your time and money, this episode will help you look beyond the obvious and experience Greece in a much more meaningful way. Because the best Greek island vacation isn’t necessarily the one where you see the most. It’s the one where you experience the moments you’ll still be talking about years later. Link to the YouTube video on Planning Your First Trip to Greece? Watch This First: https://youtu.be/WcJ-KCIH7vM?si=1JZmMmUIxdrjHQk9 __ 0:01 5 Greek Island Experiences You’ll Regret Missing 1:56 Private Boat Tours in Greece: Why You Should Do One 6:12 The Best Way to Discover a Greek Island: Local Guides 9:16 Authentic Greek Cooking Classes: Food, Family & Tradition 12:36 Greek Islands Shopping: Handmade Sandals & Local Craftsmanship 16:31 Greek Island Wine Tasting: The Best Vineyards to Visit 19:11 Unique Greek Island Experiences You Didn’t Know Were Possible __ Connect with me:  Fabulous Vita Travel Agency : ⁠https://fabulousvita.com Youtube Channel : ⁠https://youtube.com/c/StayFabulousTL⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anastasiya.gorshkova/

Planning a trip to Greece and wondering whether Paros is still the authentic Greek island everyone talks about? Or is it slowly becoming the next Mykonos? After spending years returning to Paros for one to two months every summer, this was the first season that truly made me stop and ask whether the island I fell in love with is beginning to change. In this episode, I take you beyond the Instagram photos and headlines to explore what's really happening on one of Greece's fastest-growing destinations. I'll share the latest tourism trends, why Paros was named the #1 island in the world, what I personally noticed while exploring the island this summer, and whether the comparisons to Mykonos are actually justified. We'll also talk about overtourism, rising hotel development, changing beach clubs, increasing property prices, and what all of this means if you're planning your first or fifth trip to Paros. Most importantly, I'll explain why choosing the right area to stay, the right experiences, and the right pace can completely transform your visit, even as the island continues to evolve. Whether you're dreaming of hidden beaches, authentic tavernas, boutique hotels, private boat tours, wineries, or the quieter side of the Cyclades, this episode will help you experience the Paros that so many travelers never discover. If you're planning a trip to Greece and want to experience Paros before it changes even more, this episode will help you make smarter decisions, avoid common mistakes, and build an itinerary that truly fits the way you love to travel. __ 0:00 Is Paros Becoming the Next Mykonos? 1:48 Why Paros Is Growing Faster Than Ever 5:36 What I Noticed in Paros This Summer 8:24 Is Tourism Changing the Island Forever? 10:02 Paros vs Mykonos: Is History Repeating Itself? 11:36 How to Experience the Real Paros 13:02 Planning the Perfect Paros Itinerary __ Connect with me:  Fabulous Vita Travel Agency : ⁠https://fabulousvita.com Youtube Channel : ⁠https://youtube.com/c/StayFabulousTL⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anastasiya.gorshkova/

Planning your first trip to Greece? Chances are you've already started asking the question almost every traveler asks: Which Greek islands should I visit? Santorini? Mykonos? Paros? After years of exploring Greece and spending several months here every year, I can tell you that this is actually the wrong place to start. In this episode, I'm taking you behind the scenes of the exact thought process we use before we ever begin designing a Greece itinerary for the clients of my travel agency. Because choosing the right Greek islands isn't about following social media trends or copying someone else's vacation - it's about choosing islands that fit "your" travel style, your priorities, and the kind of memories you want to create.  I'll talk about why Santorini can be magical for a honeymoon but not necessarily the best choice for every trip, which islands are perfect for incredible beaches, authentic Greek experiences, luxury escapes, nightlife, or a slower pace of life, and why trying to squeeze too many islands into one itinerary is one of the biggest mistakes first-time visitors make. I'll also share some of my personal favorites - from the crystal-clear waters of Milos and the charm of Antiparos to little rituals I never skip when I'm back in Paros. Whether you're planning your very first trip to Greece, deciding between Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, Milos, Naxos, or beyond, or simply trying to build a Greece itinerary that actually makes sense, this episode will help you choose the right islands with confidence and create a journey you'll still be talking about long after you've returned home. Link to the YouTube video on Ios Greece Travel Guide: HIDDEN GEM Near Santorini You’ll Wish You Discovered SOONER: https://youtu.be/zFByjg4adxc?si=FJOH7uEgz5SYqLrq Link to the YouTube video Mykonos vs Santorini vs Paros: Which Greek Island Is REALLY BEST for YOU?: https://youtu.be/ZVWjcjVg3-8?si=BcU6xpSWRjeIz3z7 __ 0:00 Planning Your First Trip to Greece? Start Here 3:24 How to Choose the Right Greek Islands 4:07 Santorini, Mykonos, or Paros? Which Island Is Right for You? 7:39 Best Time to Visit the Greek Islands & Seasonal Differences 8:19 The Biggest Greece Itinerary Mistake: Trying to See Too Many Islands 10:13 The Best Greek Islands for Beaches, Luxury & Authentic Experiences 17:05 Why Fewer Islands Create a Better Greece Vacation 20:16 The Smartest Way to Build a Greece Itinerary 23:48 Greece Travel Tips Every First-Time Visitor Should Know __ Connect with me:  Fabulous Vita Travel Agency : ⁠https://fabulousvita.com Youtube Channel : ⁠https://youtube.com/c/StayFabulousTL⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anastasiya.gorshkova/

Planning a trip to Puglia? Before you finalize your itinerary, it's worth challenging a few common assumptions about this extraordinary region. In this second episode of my two-part Puglia series, I explore the misconceptions that often prevent travelers from discovering the true character of one of Southern Italy’s most captivating destinations. I share the biggest misconceptions I see time and time again - from believing Alberobello is the main attraction to thinking Puglia is only about beaches or that the best experiences can be booked after you arrive. I explain why the region is best discovered through its food, wine, family-run masserie, local traditions, and immersive experiences that reveal a side of Puglia many visitors never get to see. I also talk about why comparing Puglia to the Amalfi Coast often leads to disappointment, and how embracing its slower pace, rural beauty, and authentic character transforms the entire journey. Whether you're planning your first Puglia itinerary or looking to experience Southern Italy beyond the typical tourist trail, this episode will help you see Puglia through a completely different lens and understand why so many travelers return home wishing they had experienced more of its true essence. Link to the YouTube video on Is Alberobello Still Worth Visiting?: https://youtu.be/pn-WkPFNoR4?si=cIIyL-YUEim_vk6k __ 0:00 What Travelers Get Wrong About Puglia 2:30 Is Alberobello Really the Highlight of Puglia? 4:21 The Puglia Experiences You Should Not Miss 6:02 Private Boat Tours, Burrata, and Wine Tastings: The Experiences Worth Adding 8:00 Why You Should Book Puglia Experiences in Advance 11:09 Puglia vs Amalfi Coast: Why They Are Completely Different __ Connect with me:  Fabulous Vita Travel Agency : ⁠https://fabulousvita.com Youtube Channel : ⁠https://youtube.com/c/StayFabulousTL⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anastasiya.gorshkova/

Planning a trip to Puglia may seem straightforward at first, but once you begin building your itinerary, the decisions quickly become far more complex. Where should you stay? Do you need one base or several? Is Alberobello worth staying in? Can you explore Puglia without a car? And how much time do you really need to experience the region properly? In this episode, I share the biggest mistakes I repeatedly see travelers make when planning a Puglia itinerary. After living in Italy for more than a decade, and running a travel agency where my team designs countless bespoke journeys across the country, I’ve learned that the success of a trip rarely depends on how many places you visit - It depends on how thoughtfully your itinerary is structured. I explain why Puglia deserves to be treated as a destination rather than a quick addition to an Italy itinerary, how to choose the right bases for exploring Valle d'Itria and Salento, why constantly changing hotels often diminishes the experience, and whether renting a car is truly necessary for discovering the region. I also share the approach we use for the clients of my travel agency when designing luxury Puglia itineraries that balance exploration with the slower rhythm of life that makes Southern Italy so special. Whether you're planning your first Puglia itinerary, searching for the best places to stay in Puglia, or wondering how to experience the region beyond the typical tourist route, this episode will help you avoid common planning mistakes and create a journey that feels seamless, balanced, and truly unforgettable. Link to the YouTube video on Should You Stay in a Masseria in Puglia? - https://youtu.be/dMie8UsExrY?si=dYoS6IlkoI4-8v1Q __ 0:00 The Biggest Mistakes Travelers Make When Planning a Trip to Puglia 3:51 Why Puglia Deserves More Than a Quick Stop 5:33 Stop Trying to See All of Puglia in One Trip 8:32 One Base or Two? How to Structure Your Puglia Itinerary 12:54 Why Constantly Changing Hotels Ruins Your Trip 15:38 Do You Need a Car in Puglia? __ Connect with me:  Fabulous Vita Travel Agency : ⁠https://fabulousvita.com Youtube Channel : ⁠https://youtube.com/c/StayFabulousTL⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anastasiya.gorshkova/

If you’re planning a trip to Puglia, chances are you’ve come across the word “masseria” countless times. From luxury travel magazines to social media, masserias have become one of the most sought-after accommodation experiences in Southern Italy. But before booking one for your Puglia itinerary, there’s an important question to ask: Is staying in a masseria actually the right choice for your trip? In this episode, I share what every traveler should know before booking a masseria in Puglia. After living in Italy for more than a decade and returning to Puglia countless times over the years, I’ve found that many travelers reserve a masseria without fully understanding what makes these historic properties so unique. Some expect a luxury resort, others imagine a traditional hotel, while many are surprised to discover that every masseria offers something completely different.  I discuss what a masseria truly is, why no two masserias offer the same experience, and why choosing the right location can be just as important as choosing the property itself. I also explain why the best masserias are destinations in their own right - places where long breakfasts, cooking classes, olive groves, local wines, and the slower rhythm of Puglian life become part of the experience. Whether you’re searching for the best places to stay in Puglia, planning a luxury Italy itinerary, or simply curious about the authentic side of Southern Italy, this episode will help you decide whether a masseria belongs in your journey. More than just a place to sleep, a great masseria offers a deeper connection to the food, culture, traditions, and countryside that make Puglia one of Italy’s most captivating regions. __ 0:00 Should You Stay in a Masseria in Puglia? 2:40 What Is a Masseria? The History Behind Puglia’s Historic Farmhouses 3:35 Why a Masseria Is Not a Resort 5:40 Not All Masserias Offer the Same Experience 6:52 The Most Important Thing to Consider Before Booking a Masseria 9:40 Why the Best Masserias Are Destinations Themselves 12:19 The Authentic Side of Puglia Most Travelers Never Experience __ Connect with me:  Fabulous Vita Travel Agency : ⁠https://fabulousvita.com Youtube Channel : ⁠https://youtube.com/c/StayFabulousTL⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anastasiya.gorshkova/

Alberobello is one of the most famous destinations in Puglia, but it’s also one of the most debated. As more travelers add Alberobello to their Italy itineraries, I’m increasingly hearing the same question: Is Alberobello still worth visiting, or has tourism changed the experience too much? In this episode, I share my honest perspective after returning to Alberobello and explain why opinions about this unique town are often so divided. While some visitors leave disappointed, others consider it one of the highlights of their trip through Puglia. In my experience, the difference usually comes down to how you visit and what you choose to experience once you arrive. I discuss the realities of visiting Alberobello today, from navigating crowds, parking, and summer heat to understanding the difference between the town’s two historic trulli districts. I also share some of the most meaningful experiences from my recent visit, including conversations with local residents who still live inside traditional trulli homes and the stories that reveal a side of Alberobello many travelers never discover. Whether you're planning a Puglia itinerary, researching the best places to visit in Southern Italy, or wondering if Alberobello deserves a place on your trip, this episode offers practical travel advice, local insight, and a deeper look at one of Italy’s most recognizable UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Most importantly, I explain how to experience Alberobello in a way that feels authentic, memorable, and truly worth your time. __ 0:01 Is Alberobello Still Worth Visiting? 1:49 Why Some Visitors Leave Alberobello Disappointed 4:14 The Alberobello Most Tourists Never Experience 5:08 Inside a Traditional Trullo: Stories From Local Residents 7:21 How I Would Visit Alberobello Today 8:27 The Best Alberobello Experiences: Local Guides and Puglian Cuisine 12:24 My Honest Verdict: Is Alberobello Worth Including in a Puglia Itinerary? __ Connect with me:  Fabulous Vita Travel Agency : ⁠https://fabulousvita.com Youtube Channel : ⁠https://youtube.com/c/StayFabulousTL⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anastasiya.gorshkova/

If you’re planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast and expecting it to feel exactly like the photos you’ve seen online, this episode may completely change the way you approach one of Italy’s most iconic destinations. After living in Italy for over a decade, traveling to the Amalfi Coast for nearly twenty years, and running a travel agency that organizes bespoke trips to Italy, I’ve observed that two people can visit the Amalfi Coast at the exact same time and leave with completely different experiences. In this episode, I share the biggest mistakes I repeatedly see first-time travelers make, from underestimating Amalfi Coast transportation and summer traffic to trying to see too much in too little time. I also talk about the reality of ferries, the chaos surrounding the Blue Grotto in Capri, and why rushing between Positano, Capri, Amalfi, Ravello, and Pompeii often takes away from the very beauty people come here to experience. Most importantly, I explain what truly makes the Amalfi Coast unforgettable. Beyond the crowded streets and Instagram photos, this coastline reveals itself through slower, more intentional experiences - private boat days, hidden grottos, local food, breathtaking coastal hikes like the Path of Gods, and the quiet moments that allow you to genuinely connect with the beauty of southern Italy. Whether you’re planning your first Amalfi Coast itinerary, searching for luxury Italy travel inspiration, or trying to understand the best way to experience Positano and Capri without feeling overwhelmed, this episode will help you approach the Amalfi Coast in a far more authentic, balanced, and unforgettable way. __ 0:00 The Amalfi Coast Is Not What Most Travelers Expect 2:23 The Biggest Amalfi Coast Mistake: Underestimating Logistics 4:55 Why Trying to See Everything Ruins the Amalfi Coast 8:53 The Truth About Ferries Between Positano, Capri, and Sorrento 15:15 Is the Blue Grotto in Capri Actually Worth It? 17:15 Hidden Capri: Grottos, Swimming Spots, and Quiet Corners Most Tourists Miss 18:25 The Amalfi Coast Beyond Positano and Instagram Photos 19:33 The Path of Gods Hike: The Most Unforgettable Experience on the Amalfi Coast 22:30 The Secret to Experiencing the Amalfi Coast the Right Way __ Connect with me:  Fabulous Vita Travel Agency : ⁠https://fabulousvita.com Youtube Channel : ⁠https://youtube.com/c/StayFabulousTL⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anastasiya.gorshkova/

Most travelers arrive in Rome believing they have planned everything perfectly, only to quickly realize that the city feels far more overwhelming in reality than it ever did online. In this episode, I talk about why Rome so often exhausts travelers, not because the city itself is difficult, but because most itineraries are built without understanding how Rome actually functions once you are here. In this episode, I unpack the small planning decisions that quietly shape the entire Rome experience and break down the logistical and cultural mistakes travelers often make. From scheduling too much immediately after arrival and underestimating how long it takes to move around Rome, to relying on taxis for airport transfers or booking major attractions too late, we discuss the details that can quickly turn excitement into unnecessary stress. I also explain why some of Rome’s most extraordinary experiences - such as the Domus Aurea or Palazzo Colonna require far more strategic planning than travelers expect, and why places like the Borghese Gallery continue to surprise visitors with how quickly tickets disappear. Beyond logistics, this episode also touches on the cultural side of traveling in Italy, including one of the most misunderstood topics among U.S. travelers: tipping etiquette. Because Rome is not a city that rewards rushing. The more intentionally it is planned, the more extraordinary and effortless the experience becomes.  __ 0:00 Why Rome Feels So Overwhelming for Tourists 2:06 The First-Day Mistake That Exhausts Travelers Immediately 4:10 Why Getting Around Rome Is Harder Than It Looks Online 5:30 Rome Taxi & Airport Transfer Mistakes Travelers Make 9:28 Hidden Rome Experiences Most Tourists Miss: Domus Aurea & Palazzo Colonna 11:33 Why Borghese Gallery Tickets Sell Out So Quickly 14:21 Tipping in Italy: What U.S. Travelers Should Actually Expect __ Connect with me:  Fabulous Vita Travel Agency : ⁠https://fabulousvita.com Youtube Channel : ⁠https://youtube.com/c/StayFabulousTL⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anastasiya.gorshkova/

Most travelers spend months planning a trip to Rome, only to get overwhelmed, exhausted, and realizing too late that the itinerary they built made very little sense once they were actually here. In this episode, I will explore one of the biggest misconceptions about Rome: the idea that it can be approached like any other major European city. After more than a decade of living in Rome and running a travel agency, with this episode, I will offer a complete breakdown of the planning mistakes that quietly undermine so many trips. From attempting to combine the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum in a single day, to underestimating how much time, energy, and coordination Rome actually requires, I discuss what travelers rarely understand until they experience the city themselves. I also explain why two days in Rome are rarely enough, how ticketing for major attractions has become increasingly complex, and why waiting until the last minute to organize tours and experiences is one of the fastest ways to compromise the quality of your trip. Beyond the landmarks, this episode touches on the rhythm of Rome itself - its neighborhoods, pace, hidden corners, and the difference between simply seeing the city and truly experiencing it. Because Rome is not difficult to enjoy, but it does require structure. And when planned properly, it becomes one of the most extraordinary cities in the world to experience slowly, intentionally, and well. Link to the YouTube video on WHAT TO DO IN ROME THAT NOBODY KNOWS! - MUST-WATCH Before You Travel to Italy: https://youtu.be/3hmj7CEyYl0?si=3kNCz43Ip1eplRxY Link to the YouTube video on ITALY Trip Planning 2026: How to Book Your DREAM TRIP Like an INSIDER: https://youtu.be/sk1Gn-eN3eo?si=1b-03M7zUhbKOtOg __ 0:01 Most People Plan Rome Completely Wrong 0:57 Why Rome Is More Exhausting Than Travelers Expect 2:20 The Biggest Rome Itinerary Mistake: Vatican & Colosseum in One Day 4:54 Why 2 Days in Rome are Not Enough 7:19 Rome Ticket Mistakes: Tours, Third-Party Websites & Sold-Out Attractions 12:15 Why Last-Minute Planning Does Not Work in Rome 18:00 The Venice Day Trip Mistake & How to Structure Italy Properly __ Connect with me:  Fabulous Vita Travel Agency : ⁠https://fabulousvita.com Youtube Channel : ⁠https://youtube.com/c/StayFabulousTL⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anastasiya.gorshkova/

Most U.S. travelers planning a trip to France naturally focus on Paris and the South of France, while quietly overlooking one of the most rewarding destinations in the country: Bordeaux. Often perceived simply as a wine destination, Bordeaux is far more layered than most travelers expect. Beyond its world-renowned vineyards lies one of the most distinctive culinary regions in France, access to extraordinary day trips, and a city that feels calmer, more elegant, and significantly easier to experience than many of the country’s larger destinations. In this episode, you will explore why Bordeaux deserves a place on your France itinerary and what makes it so unique. From the medieval charm of Saint-Émilion and the grand estates of the Médoc to the Atlantic coastline, oyster villages, and the breathtaking Dune du Pilat, Bordeaux offers an extraordinary range of experiences without requiring constant movement between destinations. I also discuss what makes the city itself so compelling: its walkability, café culture, refined atmosphere, exceptional food scene, and the slower rhythm that allows travelers to genuinely enjoy France rather than rush through it. __ 0:01 Why Skipping Bordeaux Could Be the Biggest Mistake of Your France Trip 2:02 Why Most U.S. Travelers Overlook Bordeaux 3:15 Bordeaux Beyond Wine: What Makes the City So Different 5:22 Saint-Émilion, Médoc & The Best Day Trips from Bordeaux 7:50 The Médoc Experience: Châteaux, Vineyards & Legendary Wines 10:07 Atlantic Coast Escapes: Oysters, Cap Ferret & Dune du Pilat 11:42 Bordeaux Food & Wine: What Makes the Region Exceptional 15:13 How to Add Bordeaux to Your France Itinerary the Right Way __ Connect with me:  Fabulous Vita Travel Agency : ⁠https://fabulousvita.com Youtube Channel : ⁠https://youtube.com/c/StayFabulousTL⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anastasiya.gorshkova/

Renting a car in France can elevate your trip or complicate it in ways most travelers don’t anticipate. In this episode, I explain what U.S. travelers need to understand before booking a rental car in France, and why the real question is not whether to rent one, but where, when, and for how long it actually makes sense. While driving is unnecessary and often impractical in cities like Paris, the experience shifts entirely once you move into regions such as Provence, the Bordeaux countryside, or Dordogne. These areas are not built around train travel, and accessing villages, wineries, markets, and countryside properties requires a far more flexible approach, one that often depends on having a car. Beyond the decision itself, this episode unpacks the details that frequently catch travelers off guard: limited rental office hours, midday closures, the prevalence of manual cars, and the importance of booking correctly in advance. It also offers a grounded perspective on what driving in France actually feels like, from navigating narrow village streets to managing toll roads and parking. For those considering alternatives, I also talk about when it makes sense to rely on private drivers or structure your stay around a central base, rather than committing to a car for the entire trip. Because in France, the most successful itineraries are not built around fixed rules, but around a clear understanding of how the country truly works and how to move through it with ease. __ 0:00 Renting a Car in France: What U.S. Travelers Get Wrong 1:29 Do You Need a Car in France? Where It Actually Makes Sense 2:20 Car Rental Hours in France: Lunch Closures & Timing Mistakes 4:02 Self-Service Car Rental in France 6:02 Automatic vs Manual Cars in France: What to Book in Advance 7:50 Driving in France: Roads, Parking, Tolls & What to Expect 8:40 Rental Strategy: When to Use a Car vs Private Driver __ Connect with me:  Fabulous Vita Travel Agency : ⁠https://fabulousvita.com Youtube Channel : ⁠https://youtube.com/c/StayFabulousTL⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anastasiya.gorshkova/