Like everyone else, I went to Europe this summer. And while I didn’t jet off for 3 months embodying the study abroad vibes of my youth…..nearly 3 weeks of swimming, lounging, reading, scootering, eating and drinking with zero input from any sources of media or work is arguably even more surreal. Having that much (paid) time off is the kind of vacation we all need 2-3x a year. Sadly to make this kinda time off work I had to squirrel away all my accrued hours so far this year, my rollover days from last year (max 3….*eye roll*) and I’m totally negative for the next few pay periods. Just want to bring a dose of reality to the situation…..but enough about business!! Where to start? What do the people want to know?

Euro Summer 2025 Locations

• Stella, Liguria — Home Base. Think soft, breezy hillscapes (no AC gamechanger) with views of the sea, 15 min scooter from the nearest beach but 30 min from our faves.
• Bergeggi, Liguria — Idyllic stretch of the coast bookended by cliffs, calming “Bergeggi blue” water, rustic chic beach clubs
• Celle, Liguria — Super cute seaside town, wide open boardwalks separated from the road and full of fresh air, multiple premium gelato locations (still dreaming of the dark chocolate & orange at Il Gelso Nero 👀)
• Seiterre in Montebello, Piemonte — Quick, accessible (less than 1hr away from the coast) agriturismo moment for lunch in a vineyard valley with my fam.
• Rapallo, Liguria — Seaside location I vacationed in during my youth and where my parents hung out this year which has unfortunately boomed so much it’s actually too busy to enjoy.
• Pratorotondo to Passo del Faiallo, Liguria — There and back hike (3 hours each way) across hilly mountaintops with a pasta-reward halfway, giving major Sound of Music energy except with better snacks. Started off in the morning in the clouds and returned back with the sunshine, flowers, and butterflies in their fullest glory
• Somewhere between Genova, Sori, and Recco, Liguria – Boat day blessed with perfect conditions and beautiful views from the sea of all the amazing, antique homes built into the cliffs made even more spectacular by the carved staircases that give these residences direct access to the sea.
• Peza, Crete — Location change to Greece for my best friend’s wedding!! Countryside just 30 min south of Heraklion. Lots and lots of lamb. Joined by family for extra core memories and love.
• Rodia, Crete — Access to beautiful beaches, steep rocky mountains, goats chilling roadside, and lots of Greek salad. 20 min east of Heraklion with easy access to the Agia Pelagia area for rocky beach swims.

The Takeaway

Chatting with one of my besties upon my return this time around, she observed that I didn’t sound sad to be back — that I actually sounded refreshed. Usually after a fun trip or a long trip that starts with lots of built-up burnout, I’m depressed to come back to reality. Instead, this time around I am feeling thankful, relaxed, content, INSPIRED, and thankful – both for the trip and uninterrupted time off but also for the privilege of many good things and a healthy routine to come home to.

Lots of people I know (I’m totally guilty of this too, especially when exploring someplace new) spend short vacations running around, trying to jam in as many new experiences as possible to get their money’s worth. My view? When you’re actually trying to relax, recover, reconnect and LIVE THE VIBE you see on social media which inspires you to take a vacation in the first place….. go long, go slow, and go familiar. And go with people you love!

Lean into what and who you love and give yourself the luxury of time to enjoy it all con calma. 💗💗💗