2025 Athens, Greek Isles Cruise & Paris

Our Athens evening tour was the perfect start to our Clemcation. We were picked up directly from our hotel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle and taken on a smooth ride through the city as it came to life under the lights. From the glowing Acropolis and Parthenon to the grandeur of the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the historic Panathenaic Stadium, every stop felt magical. We wandered through Monastiraki and took in breathtaking views over the water at Mikrolimano. To close out the night, we sipped expertly crafted cocktails at Baba au Rum, one of the 50 Best Bars in the World. It was seamless, stylish, and the perfect taste of Athenian nightlife.

We began our day with a hands-on wine-making workshop, where we blended, bottled, and toasted to the Greek way of life. Later, we made our way to the scenic port of Piraeus, where lunch at Zorbas Mikrolimano served up fresh seafood with stunning harbor views. Afterward, we strolled the waterfront and treated ourselves to creamy gelato for dessert, the perfect coastal indulgence. That evening, we stepped into the world of craft cocktails at The Clumsies, one of the World’s 50 Best Bars, and ended the night in style. Taste, culture, and coastal charm, all in rhythm.

We explored the legendary Acropolis of Athens with a licensed guide who brought ancient history to life at every step. Bathed in golden afternoon light, we strolled through iconic landmarks including the Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, Propylaea Gates, Erechtheion, Theatre of Dionysus, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. The stories and architecture were awe-inspiring, offering a deeper appreciation for this UNESCO World Heritage Site. For history lovers and cultural explorers, this was Athens at its most timeless.

After being personally greeted at the Kusadasi cruise terminal, we embarked on a full-day private tour that immersed us in the rich history of Turkey. We explored the awe-inspiring Ancient City of Ephesus, walked through the beautifully preserved Terrace Houses, and visited the sacred House of the Virgin Mary tucked in the Aladag Mountains. A delicious Turkish lunch at Agora Restaurant gave us a true taste of local flavors. We ended the day at the iconic Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, before returning to port in comfort. It was culture, history, and hospitality at its finest.

When rough waters rerouted our itinerary, Santorini welcomed us a day early, and what a gift it was. After arriving by tender, we rode the cable cars up to Fira, wandered the charming cliffside shops, and settled in for dinner at Zafora Restaurant. As the sun dipped behind the caldera, the sky lit up in dreamy hues of gold and lavender. With fresh Greek cuisine and a chilled glass of wine in hand, we soaked in the kind of sunset only Santorini can serve. Unexpected detour turned unforgettable memory.

Our day in Santorini began with pure magic a flying dress photo shoot in Imerovigli with the incredible Miss Santorini herself. After capturing those dreamy caldera views, we were met for a private tour that unfolded like a postcard. We wandered through the iconic blue-domed churches of Oia, admired Venetian castle ruins, and explored captains’ mansions, cliffside cave homes, and art-lined streets. In Megalochori and Pyrgos, we slowed down to savor the quiet charm of traditional villages, bell towers, and hidden alleyways. We ended at the breathtaking Three Bells of Fira, soaking in one of the island’s most iconic views. Every stop felt timeless and beautifully personal.

Day of rejuvenation! Our sea day was the reset we didn’t know we needed. We spent most of it unwinding in the serene Solarium, the adults-only haven on board, surrounded by ocean views, soft lounge chairs, and pure calm. With no agenda but rest, we soaked in the sun, sipped cocktails, and let the rhythm of the Aegean lull us into full rejuvenation. A true pause in paradise.

We were picked up at the cruise port and whisked away by Alessandro's team, whose passion for Sicilian culture made every moment feel personal. First stop: the hilltop village of Castelmola, where almond wine at the infamous Bar Turrisi met ancient Greek symbolism in the boldest of ways. After a must-have cannoli and gelato from Stefania Pittitti, we descended toward Taormina with Mount Etna standing watch in the distance. We strolled the Corso Umberto, took in views of Isola Bella, and explored the ancient Greek-Roman amphitheater. Of course, we made time for a photo op outside the San Domenico Palace Hotel, famously featured in White Lotus Season 2. We closed out this culture-rich day with a creamy shrimp scampi lunch in Messina, full of flavor and flair, just like Sicily itself. It was indulgent, insightful, and unforgettable.

Thermal Bliss Unlocked: Giardini Poseidon Terme Caught the ferry from Naples to Ischia, and this volcanic gem did not disappoint. With roots tracing back to ancient Greece, Ischia is one of Europe’s oldest spa destinations, where thermal healing is a way of life. After a colorful stroll through charming local boutiques of Lacco Ameno, we arrived at paradise. Giardini Poseidon Terme. A true sanctuary nestled into the cliffs. With over 20 thermal pools ranging from steamy 40°C baths to icy plunges, every soak offered a new sensation. We floated in sea-view pools, walked the Kneipp hot-cold path, and stepped inside a natural hillside steam grotto. The beautifully landscaped gardens, private beach cove, and peaceful sun terraces made it easy to unwind in every corner. Lunched at one of the onsite garden cafés, enjoying fresh Mediterranean dishes surrounded by blooms and sea breeze. Poseidon was a full-sensory reset that left us glowing, grounded, and completely renewed.

Bonjour, Paris! Fresh off the cruise and straight into the heart of the City of Lights, we didn’t waste a second. Our first stop? Riz DjonDjon in the lively 11 arrondissement; where bold, comforting Haitian flavors welcomed us like a warm hug. That plate of DjonDjon rice hit just right after a long travel day. Jet lag? A little. Delicious detour? Totally worth it. Paris adventures are officially loading…

We began our morning at Café Richard, sipping cappuccinos and savoring fresh pastries as we eased into the rhythm of Paris like the locals do. Later, we wandered through the vibrant heart of Little Africa, where every step was a sensory adventure. Spices filled the air, music echoed through the streets, and bold flavors tempted us at every corner. I happily snacked my way through it all. The afternoon brought us to Saint-Germain-des-Prés, where culture and couture effortlessly collide. With a relaxed lunch at Les Marronniers and a few cocktails along the way, we soaked in the district’s signature blend of historic charm and modern elegance. As the city lights began to glow, we boarded our Paris Gourmet Dinner Seine River Cruise with Singer and DJ Set and let the magic of the evening unfold. A gourmet meal, smooth cocktails, and live music set the perfect tone. And when the Eiffel Tower sparkled above the water, it felt like a dream come to life. Paris, you’ve outdone yourself.

We spent the afternoon strolling through the soulful streets of Saint-Michel, where boutique shopping, historic architecture near Place Saint-André des Arts, and a cozy stop at Le Campanella set the tone. The cappuccino was smooth, the Hugo Spritz refreshing, and the people-watching? Très magnifique. As the sun dipped, we crossed the Seine toward Little Africa for an early dinner at Eat Africa. The energy pulsed with music and laughter, and the flavors were bold and unforgettable. We indulged in fu fu and fried fish, dishes rich with tradition and warmth. Paris continues to surprise at every corner a seamless blend of fashion, flavor, and culture that feels like home abroad.

What a powerful way to honor freedom, creativity, and culture even while abroad! The day began with a Perfume Making Workshop, where I crafted a custom scent inspired by two of my favorites: Tom Ford’s Black Orchid and Boucheron. The result was a bold, elegant blend that perfectly reflected the essence of Juneteenth. Next, we visited the Eiffel Tower, standing tall and unshakable a symbol of strength and visibility. At the Louvre, surrounded by art and history, we were reminded of the resilience and brilliance woven into the Black experience. Juneteenth marks the day June 19, 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas were informed of their freedom, over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Officially recognized as a U.S. federal holiday in 2021, it honors Black freedom, perseverance, and the continued pursuit of justice. Today, I celebrate with gratitude and joy. From Paris, with purpose.