WHERE LIFE MEETS TREASURED TRAVEL

Does anyone really need encouragement to book a trip to Italy, First name / friend?

 

It seems the answer is a resounding "no"—at least not for the 62.2 million visitors who traveled there in 2024. (And those numbers are expected to rise once they tally up 2025!)

 

If Italy is on your 2025 travel list, consider this your heads-up: you may want to rethink those plans! Starting next month, the country has officially kicked off Jubilee celebrations that will last through all of 2025. And these celebrations? They’re expected to draw up to 20 million additional visitors 🫣 Before we dive into alternative destinations, here are a few quick details:

 

📌 What is the Jubilee?: The Jubilee (or Holy Year) is a Catholic event that occurs every 25 years, centered in Rome and Vatican City.

 

📌 Can I still go to Italy in 2025?: Absolutely! But it will require some strategic planning—namely, booking well in advance, being flexible, aware that areas like Vatican city are closed down to the public the majority of the time and so, if less crowds are your vibe maybe staying away from Rome  if you can! 

 

📌 Where else can I go in Europe?: I'm so glad you asked. Keep reading for Italy-alternative recommendations!

 

If this newsletter feels like it’s putting a damper on your Italy 2025 dreams, don’t fret, First name / friend. Europe has countless other incredible destinations or if you want to join the celebration, I am in fact booking families for the heart of Jubilee now, but time is of the essence. But, this edition highlights a few amazing alternatives, so you can still plan an unforgettable trip—with my help, of course.

The Amalfi Coast is arguably one of the most popular spots in Italy – even without the Jubilee crowds. If it's European seaside splendor you're after, the Dalmatian Coast of Croatia can't be beat. Coastal views? Charming seaside towns? Crystal-clear water? Check. Check. Check.

 

📍 Split: Home to the remarkable Diocletian's Palace, a site that blends ancient Roman architecture with a bustling modern city. Its lively waterfront promenade, local markets, and proximity to beautiful islands make it a perfect base for Mediterranean exploration.

 

📍 Dubrovnik: Famous for its dramatic stone walls and medieval Old Town, Dubrovnik is chock-full of historic charm and striking views. Visitors can step back in time as they explore the picturesque alleys and Baroque buildings.

 

📍 Hvar: Abundantly sunny days and a vibrant nightlife scene will have you saying “Italy who?” in no time. With charming old-town streets and a historic hilltop fortress offering panoramic views, this island paradise is perfect for travelers looking for relaxation by day and excitement by night.

The rolling hills of Tuscany's wine region may have the fame, but Bordeaux goes toe-to-toe with Tuscany when it comes to charm, world-renowned wines, and rich history. The perfect alternative for wine lovers and vineyard-wanderers, Bordeaux’s vineyards and scenic villages are just waiting to be explored. Cheers to that!

 

📍 Bordeaux City: Known for its architecture, Bordeaux City is both elegant and vibrant. Wander through the grand Place de la Bourse, enjoy tasting experiences in historic wine cellars, and soak in the city’s lively café culture.

 

📍 Saint-Émilion: This medieval village, nestled among Bordeaux’s most esteemed vineyards, is a must-visit for any wine aficionado. With charming stone streets, underground wine cellars, and panoramic vineyard views, Saint-Émilion perfectly captures Bordeaux’s rustic beauty.

 

📍 Medoc Region: Famous for its prestigious wine estates, the Medoc region is a paradise of sprawling vineyards and châteaux. Visitors can tour legendary wineries, sip bold reds, and explore the scenic Route des Châteaux, where every stop feels like a step into history.

If the canals of Venice are what you crave, look no further than Bruges, Belgium. This charming city offers the same enchanting atmosphere—with romantic waterways, cobblestone streets, and Gothic architecture—but with its own unique Flemish flair. Wander through picturesque alleyways, take a canal boat ride, and soak in the charm of this fairy-tale-like city. Along with all of that… waffles?! Say no more.

 

📍 Bruges Canals: Known as the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is famous for its idyllic canals lined with historic buildings. A boat ride through these serene waterways offers beautiful views of the city’s medieval charm.

 

📍 Market Square: Bruges’ Market Square, surrounded by colorful facades and the iconic Belfry tower, is the vibrant heart of the city. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, hop into local chocolate shops, and search for the best Belgian waffles.

 

📍 The Lake of Love: The Lake of Love, with its scenic pathways and charming bridges, is a must for romantics. Legend has it, couples who cross the lake’s bridge together will experience everlasting love!

P.S. Can’t get enough options? Trust us—this list could go on and on! Here’s a quick shoutout to a few more hidden gems that didn’t quite fit in this edition: the Italian-speaking region of Ticino in Switzerland, the sun-soaked islands of Malta, and Albania’s stunning, yet still under-the-radar coastlines. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your options for 2025 and need a little help deciding, just hit reply!

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