“Hold on dear friend, for this is not the end. You have traveled so far and you have worked so hard. Carry on with courage and do not give up. And not because things will be easy but because these seeds you are sowing matter, and they will grow in time, if you do not lose heart.” —Morgan Harper Nichols

Hello Fellow Traveler from Siena, Italy!

I am so fortunate to be working from the road, this time in Tuscany, Sicily, and Rome. This quick note is coming from Siena, a wonderful medieval city south of Florence by about 50 miles.

Siena was once a banking powerhouse and a rival to Florence. It's clear to see the wealth when looking at its famous duomo which towers over head or meandering the cobblestoned streets from piazza to piazza. Although today is rainy, March is a great time to visit with smaller amounts of tourists giving quick and easy access to the highlights in this city. Palio, for which Siena is also famous, is not until July and August during the height of the busy sumemer season. If you want a quieter experience, early Spring or last Fall are excellent times to visit.

Word of warning, when they say Tuscan hill town, this means steep hills and lots of stairs. So be prepared to navigate lots of cobblestone streets, steep inclines, with limited hand rails. Of course, for over 1000 years people have successfully navigated these steep streets. You'll be fine. The town center is mostly a pedestrian designated area so cars are limited making walking how to explore for a day or two. The vistas out across the Tuscan landscape is just lovely as one wanders, and there are always surprises around the corner.

This afternoon, I wandered upon the 800 year old town fountain called the Fontebranda. Constructed in 1246 AD it was the towns primary water source until modern times, with its precursor dating back to 1081 AD. Seeing buildings like this, I am always amazed how structures built 1000 years ago still stand when modern buildings crumble so quickly.

For this visit, I'm staying at the Il Battistero Siena - Residence d'Epoca. A small hotel perfectly situated with just 8 rooms. The doors to the hotel are directly across from the baptistry and it's a quick climb of the marble staircase to the main cathedral entrance.

I love this kind of place because it's so very Italian. Set in a 13th century Palazzo it was recreated into a hotel sometime in the 1990's or early 2000's. Maintaining the integrity of its history while adapting to things like A/C means it's maintained its quirky charm in a way only towns this old can do. The original gorgeous tile work from 700 years ago covers the rooms floor, the huge beams are exposed, but there is a modern flat screen tv on the wall. This isn't a Rosewood but it is quintessentially Italian, offers modern conveniences, and is perfectly placed. Just mind the stairs.

Fun hotel fact: This little sweet hotel is so close to the Cathedral there is literally a medieval tunnel that once connected this former Palazzo to the church. There is a papal coats of arms as well as a bust of a 15th century renowned architect recommending this was a home of importance. ​ The tunnel is now used as a wine cellar offering tastings and events. Sipping a bold Sangiovese in a 700-year-old cellar, with the tunnel’s entrance nearby, is a true Italian experience. What a wonderful surprise find.

Tomorrow I'm off by train for a quick Florentine gelato before flying to Palermo to join a CIE Tours small group trip. I'm excited to experience Sicily and understand better what a CIE Tour is actually like firsthand.

So what's happening in Travel at the moment?

• REAL ID - On May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers must be REAL ID compliant to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.
• ETIAS - the European "visa" has been put on hold into 2026
• ETA - the British "visa" is in place and needs to be obtained prior to flying through the UK - cost is about $13 and is required even if just flying through Heathrow
• Asia is super hot right now - Japan, Thailand, Vietnam are the place to be. Cherry blossom season has arrived and will be through the beginning of May. Get 2026 season on the calendar now.
• Alaska cruises are starting to sell out for Spring and Summer 2025
• Antartica is continuing its popularity with the Arctic increasingly popular - there are some great options for the 25/26 season. Polar bears to the North, Penguins to the South. Which do you prefer?

Some CURRENT SALES that offer great Value

LAST DAY OF SALE!! Silverseas - Up to $5,000 reasons to sale has been extended through March 14, 2025 -> This includes sailings in 2025, 2026, and 2027 -> Includes sailings on all continents - Expedition and Leisure -> Many of these sailings are also Virtuoso Voyages *extra amenities if booked through me) -> Limited time sale - Find your sailing​ If you see a sailing you love, go on to Silversea and book your sailing noting that I'm your travel advisor. that way I can get any extra amenities added. Contact me to get your cabin

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Guess what? Europe is on Sale with Collette When you pay for your European tour in full by April 15, 2025, you can save up to 15%. Early Access with Opal and Finch: 3/10 – 3/16 General Public Sale: 3/17 – 3/24 Travel Period: ​5/1/2025 – 4/30/2026 EUROPE OFFER DETAILS 10% off all departures: 08/2025; 10/2025; 12/2025; 03/2026 – 04/2026 15% off all departures: 05/2025 – 07/2025; 11/2025; 01/2026 – 02/2026 *Connect with me for the full terms Terms: Payment in full required by 4/15/2025. Space is on a first come, first served basis. Offer is not valid on group or existing bookings. Other restrictions may apply. ​ Contact me

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Save up to $17,200 Per Guest on Antarctica Expeditions

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​Three countries, one extraordinary journey​ Go on an expertly curated seven-day journey through Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia with Abercrombie & Kent. Travelers can glide across Lake Bled in a traditional pletna boat, sip coffee in Trieste's elegant squares, and wander the medieval streets of Motovun. Thrill-seekers will love ziplining over the Sava Dolinka River and exploring the subterranean landscapes of the Škocjan Caves. Along the way, your clients can immerse themselves in local culinary traditions, from truffle hunting to indulging in exquisite wines and olive oils. With hand-selected guides and personalized concierge services, Abercrombie & Kent Italy guarantees a seamless journey for your clients filled with enriching experiences, every time.

Curious about a destination or have questions about travel, join me for over at Meetup and Teams for my upcoming group conversations or shoot me an email.

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Virtuoso, The Magazine The new Virtuoso, The Magazine is out, and it’s full of useful tips from Virtuoso travel advisors who, like us, can’t stop fantasizing about the next exotic getaway. TRIPS OF A LIFETIME My expertise and access to Virtuoso's network of the world's best travel brands, perks, and experiences mean your most memorable trips are yet to come. THE WORLD'S TOP ADVISORS ARE VIRTUOSO! Read More ->

Martha Day Owner | Travel Advisor +1 469-818-4864 ​www.opalandfinch.com​ ​Martha@opalandfinch.com​ Live Beautifully and with intention

Hello. I’m Martha Day, owner and head travel designer at Opal&Finch, a boutique luxury travel company based in Dallas, TX, and (spoiler alert)

I LOVE travel. It is a joy to assist others with their travel needs. ​

My design goal is simple: that you return from your journey refreshed. Whether you head to a far-flung exotic destination, choose to relax deck side on a ship, or need your feet in the sand kicking back by the sea, whatever you choose, my desire is for you return home rejuvenated with great stories that bring smiles.

​Opal&Finch exists to inspire connections through travel. We provide effortless travel planning, management, and concierge services to busy people so they can take memory-filled vacations even when schedules are packed and it seems impossible to get away.

If you’re looking to travel, I’d love to help bring your travel dreams to life.

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