Melanie Brandman
Founder
From Melanie
Having just returned from trekking in Bhutan, camping at 13,000 feet and the great privilege of visiting some of the most awe-inspiring historical sites such as Tiger's Nest monastery, I am reminded again why I started The Travel Curator, to share these incredible moments and inspire all of you who love to enrich your life through travel.
This month we move from the mountains to all things coastal and to one of the most picturesque coasts in the world, Amalfi, Italy. This month’s curated travel guide features the best of the Amalfi Coast and Capri, from the best dining, shopping and must do’s not only from my little black book, but also from a list of friends and tastemakers, many of whom are lucky enough to call this part of the world home. In the theme of going coastal, I have culled a list of iconic cliff side hotels and feature the emerging trend of luxury river boats, one of which I experienced first hand last month in Myanmar on Orient Express' Road to Mandalay. Thank you as always to our Salon feature this month, Amedeo Scognamigli and Roberto Faraone Mennella, the duo behind the mega successful jewelry couturier Faraone Mennella.
For more pictures and news from the road, see our new section Living Melanie and follow us @travelcurator.
Happy Journeys!
That's
Amore!
I adore Italy and especially its Amalfi Coast, and have ever since I first visited in 1985. Like a fine wine, this region only gets better with time. It's a place that's been relatively unspoiled by the modern world, and, quite refreshingly, that's a good thing. One of the reasons I love Amalfi is that I feel at ease from the minute I start the drive down the winding, weathered road to Positano. The Italian way of life is one I strive to emulate on a daily basis – it's chic, laidback and of the finest quality. And if you’ve ever been to this magical coast, you can attest to the spectacular panoramic views, the sparkling blue waters and some of the richest, freshest cuisine in the world. Andiamo.
Hot &
Trending
The List: Iconic Cliff-Side Hotels
While I love a good cosmopolitan hotel, of which my home base Manhattan offers plenty, sometimes there’s nothing better than hanging your hat – preferably a gorgeous straw beach one – in a cozy villa perched atop a remote coastal cliff. From Cape Town to Capri, spanning oceans Atlantic, Indian and Pacific, the following are my favorite global cliff-side properties for keeping it easy, breezy and lush.
The Trend: Luxury River Cruising
-
The Road to Mandalay (Myanmar, Asia)
Sailing down Myanmar's Irrawaddy River, this luxury cruise offered by Orient-Express introduces travelers to the one-of-a-kind sights and sounds of Myanmar, formerly Burma. I loved my time spent on the ship – which features the roomiest cabins, all perfectly bespoke – and especially disembarking to visit the awe-inspiring pagodas and temples. After long days of bike riding and exploring Bagan by horse-drawn cart, a long massage in the ship's Wellbeing center was the perfect wind-down.
-
Aqua Expeditions (The Amazon, Peru)
I'm told that Amazon adventures are best enjoyed through high-end Aqua Expeditions - check out their new ship MV Aria, featuring stunning design by Peruvian architect Jordi Puig. Onboard Aria, travelers visit various tributaries, marvel at its rare pink dolphins and hike in the dense jungles of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Piranha fishing is also available, but I'll be sticking to delicious ceviché served by Lima chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino in the ship's sleek dining room.
-
The Oberoi Zahra (The Nile, Egypt)
Oberoi Hotels & Resorts are famous worldwide for their utmost standard of luxury and comfort, so why would their Nile river cruiser be any different? With large cabin windows, a full-service spa and an onboard theater, the pleasures onboard rival those found outside – but with an English-speaking Egyptologist on hand, you'll be itching to learn more about the surroundings.
While navigating down the Irrawaddy in Myanmar last month, I sensed an emerging trend that will take the chic, intrepid set by storm – luxury river cruising. These now opulent expeditions, which are gaining big momentum in the cruising industry, are aboard bigger ships that offer an intimate feel, personalized service and hotel-caliber amenities, including spacious suites and large windows for prime riverside viewing. My good friend, luxury cruise connoisseur David Morris, notes river cruising is “definitely for the more adventurous, ideal for accessing places that are exotic and remote.” Above is one luxe river cruise I recommend whole-heartedly, as well as two more I’m eager to try.
Living
Melanie
Where in the world is Melanie? Join The Travel Curator herself on her far-flung adventures across the globe. Featuring chic new finds, captured moments, of-the-moment travel tips and live updates from the road.
Taste
makers
Ellen Asmodeo-Giglio AFAR Media
Ellen Asmodeo-Giglio
AFAR Media
The Amalfi coast is best by water. Stay at Hotel Santa Caterina for an authentic, warm , delicious and pampering experience. Giovanni at the pool can get help you rent boats, don't miss the divine lunch at Conca del Sogno in Nerano, by boat. Dinner at Ristorante Eolo is divine, creative cuisine in a warm and gorgeous setting with views overlooking the sea. Ask for Catherina, owner and chef, great wine selection as well. Other favorites include drinks and the gorgeous shop at Le Sirenuse, and lunch or dinner at San Pietro. In Capri, I always visit the Capri Palace Hotel spa in AnaCapri. Check out their art collection and definitely dine at Il Riccio, at their beach club. And enjoy!
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Phasellus pellentesque, lacus ut consequat malesuada, velit neque vehicula nunc, in faucibus purus sem at nisl.
Amanda Tabberer Author, The Amalfi Coast by Penguin (October 2012) and My Amalfi Coast
Amanda Tabberer
Author, The Amalfi Coast by Penguin (October 2012) and My Amalfi Coast
High above the seashore is the cultural heart of the Amalfi Coast, Ravello. A perfect evening for me is a midnight concert (check out www.ravellotime.com), nestled in the magnificent gardens of the Villa Cimbrone on a balmy evening in summer, just after a delicious seafood meal at Ristorante A’Paranza in the nearby jewel-like town of Atrani.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Phasellus pellentesque, lacus ut consequat malesuada, velit neque vehicula nunc, in faucibus purus sem at nisl.
Lia Batkin Co-Founder, In the Know Experiences
Lia Batkin
Co-Founder, In the Know Experiences
The most remarkable way to see the region is on a private boat, which is why I recommend Barbara Tours Positano. The owner is the absolute best – she will pick you up directly at your hotel and is guaranteed to show you places in the Amalfi Coast and Li Galli Islands that you would have never known existed. Be sure to book far in advance though. And once you get to Capri, do not miss the J.K. Place, which is perhaps the most chic, classically gorgeous hotel on the planet. And be sure to make time for a secluded afternoon at La Fontelina Beach Club in Capri. Super exclusive, impeccable food & drinks, and endless sunshine.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Phasellus pellentesque, lacus ut consequat malesuada, velit neque vehicula nunc, in faucibus purus sem at nisl.
Silvano & Marisa Marchetto Chef & Owner, Da Silvano & Artist, Writer, Cartoonist
Silvano & Marisa Marchetto
Chef & Owner, Da Silvano & Artist, Writer, Cartoonist
In Capri, we love eating at Villa Verde with the singing waiters, the just-picked tomatoes on the vine at every table, THE MOZZARELLA OUZING MILK SO SWEET YOU WANT IT IN YOUR MORNING CAPPUCCINO -- and of course, the thin crust pizza. Plus, the smell of the fragrant, impossibly large lemons on the lemon trees that are everywhere!
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Phasellus pellentesque, lacus ut consequat malesuada, velit neque vehicula nunc, in faucibus purus sem at nisl.
Giulio Gentile Public Relations Advisor, Italy, Orient-Express
Giulio Gentile
Public Relations Advisor, Italy, Orient-Express
An ideal day in my native land starts with a boat trip along the coast, all the way to Positano, a swim in the bay in front of the village, and a glass of chilled Fior d'Uva white wine in Praiano. This, or perhaps an excursion to Pompei, where I close my eyes and imagine how it was before the eruption of Vesuvio. And at night, it’s only the enchanting view from the Belvedere Terrace of the Caruso, especially on a moonlit night with the fireworks in Minori or Maiori.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Phasellus pellentesque, lacus ut consequat malesuada, velit neque vehicula nunc, in faucibus purus sem at nisl.
Antonio & Carla Sersale Owner, Le Sirenuse
Antonio & Carla Sersale
Owner, Le Sirenuse
For us, Italy is synonymous with fine foods and romance. Our executive chef at La Sponda, Matteo Temperini, is pure genius and makes the most impeccable Gragnano Spaghetti with local shellfish, capers and an anchovy sauce from Cetara. Lo Scoglio is another favorite - the perfect location just by the water with the most delicious pasta with Zucchine in the world! And when we want to listen to a romantic song, we always go to La Zagara and enjoy a cold limoncello.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Phasellus pellentesque, lacus ut consequat malesuada, velit neque vehicula nunc, in faucibus purus sem at nisl.
Q&A SALON
Series
With Roberto Faraone Mennella and Amedeo Scognamiglio
The Travel Curator is thrilled to sit down with jewelry couturiers Roberto Faraone Mennella and Amedeo Scognamiglio, the award-winning design duo behind FARAONE MENNELLA by R.F.M.A.S. Known around the world for their exquisite jewelry collection, not to mention their consummate style and grace, Roberto and Amedeo draw inspiration for their acclaimed pieces from their classical Italian heritage and global travels.
Across The Web
Stay connected to our social network.
The Now
The Find
The Read
The Calendar
in South Korea
(Museum of American Art)
of Monaco