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Bed and breakfast — such a simple formula can help travelers feel at home in big, unfamiliar cities. Though B&Bs might conjure images of New England hideaways or stately Southern mansions with rocking chairs set up on screened-in porches, Europe, too, is filled with these quaint, intimate retreats. So, if your idea of a special…
Whether for their significance or the presence of an airport, many of our international adventures start in capital cities. Going to England? Chances are you’ll fly into London. Hoping to see Iceland? We can almost guarantee Reykjavik is stop number one. Vacationing in Thailand? You’ll at least be in Bangkok for a layover. Of course,…
A word of advice: Bigger isn’t always better when it comes to searching for the perfect hotel stay. In fact, for those seeking a more intimate, charming ambience with a personal touch, a boutique hotel is the way to go. Whether you’re heading off on a long vacation or sneaking in a short weekend getaway,…
Florence has more than enough Renaissance art and architecture, steak and Chianti, and designer boutiques. But should you want a change of pace, the city is also well positioned for day trips to a host of smaller destinations that are worth the drive or train ride. You can take your pick from cycling around a…
You’re at a restaurant and want wine, but you’re not sure what to order. A Tuscan Chianti or Piedmontese Barolo is always a solid choice. Or, you’re ready to splurge on new boots, a winter coat, or a handbag. Italian-manufactured clothing and footwear are coveted around the world for their quality and style. The point…
Tuscany is a place where every single stereotype checks out: the glorious Renaissance cities, the medieval villages hovering on hilltops, the rolling countryside that looks washed in a golden glow. There’s a reason why Tuscany has been a source of inspiration to travelers and artists, from Dante and Chaucer to Anthony Bourdain and Aziz Ansari.…
Here at Oyster, we can never get enough of bright lights, big cities, and the continuous buzz and hum of modern metropolis life. There’s just something about the energy in the air that we find exhilarating. But that doesn’t mean we don’t take a moment every once in a while to step back in time.…
National holidays can be wonderful times to visit destinations around the world: Official days off make for happy locals, and festivals, parades, and celebrations add to the upbeat vibe. But holidays often also mean crowds of people, closed restaurants and shops, higher crime rates, and uber-expensive hotel stays. Of course, many find that all of…
Florence, Siena, and Montepulciano are just a few of the stunning cities that define the beautiful region of Tuscany. The Tyrrhenian Sea borders its western coast, and nearly two-thirds of the area is comprised of rolling hills. Between the historic centers, nature reserves, and a dominant arts and culture scene, it’s no wonder Tuscany remains…
Ahhh. Rolling verdant hillsides, dirt roads (lined with cypress trees, olive groves, and endless vineyards), medieval castles, and quaint little villages: This is how most people picture Tuscany, and the most beautiful thing about it is — it’s true. Tuscany is absolutely gorgeous — so gorgeous, in fact, that you should go. Like right now.…
