CHECKING IN | 005
Checking in from Budapest (our new home!) + chatting about: honeymoon spots, a Belmond river cruise through Champagne, a weekend in Rome + the hotel that's been living rent-free in my mind.
Planning | What I’m currently researching and booking for some of my clients:
Japan, Japan, Japan!! This destination is fast becoming one of my most-requested. It’s appealing for honeymoons, group trips, winter escapes, and Japan’s “green season” in May. The top locations are still Tokyo, Kyoto + Osaka, along with Naoshima’s Art Island and the Kumano Kodo Trail.
Two Southeast Asia Honeymoons…I've been loving the shift from classic Italian honeymoons to Southeast Asia. As much as I love Italy (we spent six weeks honeymooning there!), these destinations offer diverse and culturally rich alternatives. I’m currently planning a Thailand-centered honeymoon and another that combines Vietnam and Cambodia. Here are some highlights I’m especially excited about:
The Vietage by Anantara + Zannier Bãi San Hô in Vietnam: The Vietage offers an elegant train experience, transforming travel into a memorable adventure. Upon arrival, retreat to Zannier Bãi San Hô's 73 pool villas, each designed in distinct Vietnamese architectural styles—paddy fields, hilltop, and beachfront—providing total privacy and seclusion.
Zannier Bãi San Hô in Vietnam Amansara in Siem Reap, Cambodia: Close to the Angkor temples, this retreat provides intimate luxury.
Shinta Mani Wild in the Cambodian rainforest: A Bensley Collection property with a safari-like setting, featuring 15 luxury riverside tents along the river. Think alfresco baths, jungle cruises with sunset cocktails, and immersive outdoor experiences—all set within an all-inclusive stay.
The First Lady Jackie Kennedy’s Tent at Shinta Mani Wild Similarly, at the Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Thailand: You can interact with rescued elephants, explore mountain trails, safari-style jungle treks, and unwind in ultra-luxury tents. What stands out almost more than the all-inclusive experiences is the service.
“The tented elephant camp was our favorite – so special how they give you the itinerary when you get there – how everyone is together, they are always checking on you and the service is the best we’ve had- it’s so seamless and easy.”
Last-Minute Holiday Trips for Christmas and New Year’s. With everything either all booked up or booking up quickly, I’m searching for last-minute options for clients:
Belize and staying at Turtle Inn: One of Francis Ford Coppola's trio of Belize properties (its siblings are Blancaneaux Lodge and Coral Caye), this spot is the essence of barefoot luxury. It also features a “wine aquarium”—a wall-to-wall, glass-encased wine cellar housing over 1,200 bottles of award-winning selections.
A scenic train journey starting in the Italian Alps through Austria: A snow-filled route, combining luxury hotels, spa days, and all the après. Breaking down this itinerary sooooon!
First stop: Forestis in the Dolomites Classic Italian Holiday: Beginning in Rome and moving through Florence, Tuscany, the Dolomites, and ending in Venice for a quintessential Italian experience.
A last-minute Lisbon trip for clients craving a quick, culture-rich getaway. They are staying in central Lisbon, trying allllll the local cuisine, enjoying a private boat tour, a wine-tasting day trip, and a traditional tile-making workshop.
I’m coordinating several wedding room blocks for 2025, handling all communication directly with the hotels, reviewing contracts, and securing the best industry rates—so my brides can enjoy a stress-free experience. I especially love combining room blocks with honeymoon planning; it allows me to start with clients at one of their most special moments and continue working with them through the next stages of their lives.
For complimentary hotel bookings on any of your trips, feel free to reach out to me for added amenities and priority status through my relationships: jordan@atelierlemonde.co
Hôtel Critique | Hotel Casa Monti in Rome, Italy
My recent stay here was perfect in Rome’s charming Monti district, with cozy, stylish rooms and a great location. This boutique gem exudes a vibrant, eclectic charm with an inviting, laid-back atmosphere.
Every detail, from the art and color palette to vintage accents, adds to its unique character, creating a strong sense of place. The hotel’s amenities include a spa area with three treatment rooms and a spacious marble jacuzzi lounge that’s often uncrowded, giving a sense of privacy. Communal spaces like the lobby, bar/café, outside patio, and rooftop bar serve as versatile spots for coffee, working, reading, or relaxing. Again, the ambiance is lively yet relaxed, with a fun, modern aesthetic that strikes a balance between comfort and character.
Best for: Travelers who appreciate a boutique experience with a unique personality, similar to a Soho House vibe but without the pretense. Casa Monti’s stylish, social environment attracts a young, professional crowd and is popular among locals, making it perfect for couples and younger guests looking for a stylish yet approachable atmosphere.
Not Ideal for: Guests seeking a traditional hotel experience with classic, old-world luxury. The hotel’s playful style—think martini-patterned slippers—and relaxed service may not appeal to those who favor a more refined, polished experience typical of classic luxury hotels.
Rooms are cozy and thoughtfully designed, with plush bedding, artistic decor, and touches like fun slippers and robes for a comfortable stay. The 5th-floor spa is a highlight, especially after a day of exploring. Most rooms offer both a shower and a bathtub (though not all), and the use of Susanne Kaufmann products in the rooms and spa adds a luxurious touch. The bathrooms feature side carts with ample space for products, toiletries, and styling tools—a convenient detail for travelers who need extra storage (like myself- always creating a certified girl mess).
Staff were friendly and accommodating, offering a warm and attentive experience overall. Service was occasionally slower than expected, but thoughtful details—like embroidered cocktail napkins and a Guide to Rome pocketbook for each guest—created a welcoming, personal touch. However, one detail to note is that our room was not made up during our short stay, possibly due to the need for guests to request housekeeping.
While I didn’t have a full meal at the restaurant, the breakfast buffet was a highlight every morning. The spread featured a bar with Parmesan, prosciutto, fresh tomatoes with olive oil, fresh orange juice, fruit, and a sourdough bread bar—simple yet delicious, with options for eggs and other breakfast items. The restaurant’s terracotta flooring and cozy design captured the warmth of a traditional Roman trattoria with quirky, modern accents, adding to the hotel’s charm.
Overall, Hotel Casa Monti is an excellent choice for those seeking a boutique experience in the heart of Rome, offering a refreshing addition to the Roman hotel scene.
I made a quick recap of my stay on my Instagram, along with an unfiltered peek at my chaotic notes for our weekend plans.
Traveling |
Places to catch you up on:
Budapest has been our home base for a month now, and we spent our second anniversary here with Hungarian wine tastings, a private boat tour (with more wine, of course), and incredible meals at Deryne and Borkonyha Winekitchen.
A quick trip to Rome for my husband’s birthday visiting some of our favorite spots that I mentioned in my most recent Postcards From...
We recently spent a weekend at Lake Balaton, just an hour and a half outside Budapest by car. We booked a last minute room at Anna Grand Hotel, explored local wineries, and enjoyed time by the lake. A definite highlight was St. Donat winery, which we paired with lunch at Petrányi Pince, (also a winery), strolling through the vineyards from one spot to the next.
Coming up: (as of now)
London for a work trip visiting hotels. The hotels I’m seeing are: The Maybourne Collection: Claridge’s, The Connaught, The Berkeley, and The Emory, as well as The Dorchester and The Four Seasons at Park Lane. I can’t wait to visit some of my favorite spots too!
From there, I’ll head to Ireland for an annual retreat at Ashford Castle, a 13th-century estate with 83 rooms, each showcasing George III-style canopy beds, velvet headboards, gas fireplaces, and unique combinations of patterned wallpaper and upholstery. Beyond its opulenttt accommodations, Ashford Castle has a lot of experiences, like falconry, horseback riding, and clay pigeon shooting. Really having difficulty packing for these back toback trips in a carry-on.
On My Radar |
Eat: A Cevicheria in Lisbon, Portugal
Inspired by his travels and the bold flavors of Peru, Chef Kiko created this signature restaurant to offer a fresh perspective on fish, a beloved ingredient in Portugal, through innovative cooking and plating techniques.
A Cevicheria is a laid-back Peruvian spot offering ceviche and seafood dishes with a unique Asian twist, complemented by pisco sours and a thoughtful wine selection. They don’t take reservations, but you’ll be served pisco sours to enjoy while you wait.
Sip: In honor of my upcoming stay at The Connaught in London, I’ll be enjoying drinks at the Red Room, the hotel’s stylish bar. It’s perfect for anyone seeking an upscale wine bar experience, with a sophisticated, moody ambiance and an impressive wine selection and a curation of cocktails.
Stay: Al Moudira Hotel in the heart of the Nile
Vibe: Al Moudira radiates the charm of an ornate palace, featuring courtyards, fountains, archways, domed ceilings, and lush gardens. The design beautifully melds Mediterranean and Eastern influences, creating an ambiance of timeless elegance and serenity. The hotel is the realized vision of founder Zeina Aboukheir, who was captivated by Luxor’s beauty during a felucca trip decades ago. The hotel itself is a honeycomb of 10 courtyards, with the feel of a grand country house, embellished with materials saved from historic buildings, and surrounded by ten hectares of palm groves and exotic gardens."
Location: Nestled on the west bank of the Nile, Al Moudira is close to ancient Thebes and the Valley of the Kings. This serene sanctuary is a perfect retreat amid the rich cultural heritage of Luxor. Perfect for a stay prior to a river cruise with Nour El Nil- where they will arrange pick-up the morning your journey starts.
Rooms: Each of the 54 suites is uniquely designed with antique furnishings, hand-painted frescoes, and high domed ceilings, and hammam-style bathrooms, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance. The villas offer an exclusive retreat for discerning guests. Zeina’s love for antiques is evident throughout, from handcrafted wooden doors to painted glass and tiles sourced from across the Middle East. The suites come in various categories—Deluxe, Junior, Signature, Luxury, Fountain, and Family Suites—each offering distinct features and picturesque views.
Restaurant: Al Moudira’s farm-to-table dining philosophy is showcased across multiple dining spaces: The Ottoman Hall, The Courtyard, Khan Al Moudira Cafe, Il Forno, Mashrabiya Bar and The Eastern Bar- as well as Shahrazade for private dinners or parties. The menus highlight traditional Middle Eastern flavors with a fresh, modern twist, using ingredients directly from the estate’s gardens.
Amenities: The hotel itself offers a variety of amenities designed for relaxation and well-being, including a serene pool, a library of over 7,000 books, and dedicated spaces for yoga and spa treatments. The spa provides an authentic Oriental hammam experience, where traditional bathing rituals meet modern wellness practices for complete rejuvenation. Equipped with a sauna, steam room, treatment rooms, and a fully equipped gym, the spa is staffed by expert masseurs, beauticians, and trainers.
Activities (around the hotel): You can experience everything from a breathtaking sunrise at Karnak to sunset views over the Nile from the deck of a felucca. Or find yourself in Luxor’s cultural landscape with visits to local artisans + the souks, a hot air balloon ride over the valley, visiting the Valley of the Kings and Queens, or a range of other bespoke activities tailored to personal preferences.
Do: Les Bateaux Belmond in France.
Step aboard Coquelicot, your floating sanctuary (+ my top pick of a boat), and set sail through the heart of the Champagne region for a week. Imagine dining on the top deck, savoring gourmet meals with stunning views that change with every mile. Belmond has partnered with Ruinart, the world’s oldest champagne house, for an unforgettable experience—champagne tastings, vineyard visits, and exclusive insights into the art of bubbly. Onboard this signature villa, the essence of Champagne is yours to explore, sip by sip, surrounded by the beauty of the countryside. Includes:
Fine Dining- Table d’hote meals and complimentary beverages, daily breakfast and French fine dining experience served onboard
Excursions- All excursions including exclusive use of the onboard bicycles alongside the river
Private Guide: A dedicated tour guide, whose itinerary can be tailored towards your preferences
Return Transfer: They provide a return transfer service to and from their luxury boat within France and Geneva
It’s an indulgent experience—starting at €82,000 for a private charter accommodating up to 6 guests.
Packing | What I Packed for Rome:
During the day,
Vest, Barrel Jeans, Belt, Studded Flats, Earrings, Purse (similar) + Sunglasses
Cropped Cardigan, Belt, Jeans, Bracelets, Purse (similar), Sweater + Sunglasses
At night,
Listening | Let’s Get Dressed by Livv Perez
Reading |
Current Substack obsessions:
Long Weekend by Tracy Georgiou
Ask a Stylist by Camilla Nazeri
A Considered Space by Eleanor Cording-Booth
The Cereal Aisle by Leandra Medine Cohen
The Edit by Paloma Meehan
In Moda Veritas by Irene Kim
FWD: from a friend by Emily Schuman
Night Shade by Melanie Masarin
The Good Mood Board by Franziska Steinle
Watching |
I recently started watching House M.D. and I’m obsessed. I love a good medical drama, and Dr. House reminds me a bit of Sherlock Holmes. An antisocial, maverick doctor specializing in diagnostic medicine that deals with unique cases.
Wishlist | What I'm eyeing in beauty, fashion, interiors, and more (fall edition). This season, I’m drawn to baby blue, warmer tones (with the exception of silver jewelry), and classic stripes.
This Ginori 1735 Coffee Cup and Saucer Set – The hardest part is choosing a colorway! But this one felt moody for fall.
This alpaca blend baby blue scarf is soft, cozy, and perfect for winter.
The Janessa Leonè Bowe Bag and the Curve Hoops are simple yet stylish staples I’m excited to add to my collection.
I love the classic wayfarers, but the Lady Burbank design adds a sleeker element.
I’m constantly running out of my Typology products (one of my favorite skincare brands) and need to re-up on this 9-ingredient face moisturizer, especially with the cooler winter months coming.
On that note, this beechwood dry brush will come in handy this winter. I love to dry brush pre-sauna.
I’m obsessed with these pajamas from Piglet in Bed, and the colorway: Port & Woodrose. Perfect for the holidays when you want to have a lazy morning with family and still look cute or on vacation.
These ribbed cotton trouser socks from J. Crew !! Versatile enough to wear with sneakers, loafers, and heels.
Mules – will always, always be my go-to.
Honorable Mention: My go-to date night perfume brand, StrangeLove, just launched a new scent, A Fire Within. I can’t wait to get my hands on it when I’m at Harrod’s on my next work trip.
Thank you for reading and being a part of this community! I’m glad you’re here. I’d love to know what you’d like to see more of so feel free to leave a comment below.
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Gosh that Luxor hotel has just gone straight to the top of my list...
Bless you for enjoying doing room blocks! I always felt it was a logistical nightmare 😂 (but maybe that's because the major one I did was for a wedding on the Amalfi Coast that spanned three hotels in Ravello (you would know them), including one small hotel that didn't really "do" contracts/room blocks). Oh, and then it was cancelled due to COVID 🫠
Curious to hear what you think of FS Park Lane. I went a couple years ago and thought it was so unimpressive for being a Four Seasons. It definitely misses that WOW factor, but maybe I'm just used to the George V.