Tuscany – Borgo Argenina

Hello from Hong Kong!  I am working on a few Asia related posts but in the meantime, summer is right around the corner and the warmer weather has me thinking of Europe!  Italy and Tuscany, in particular…and what better time to post about my stay at Borgo Argenina in Chianti last year!

I went on a quick trip in Italy after my work assignment in London wrapped up.  I sped through Florence, Tuscany and Venice in a week.  When planning Tuscany, I came across Borgo Argenina on Tripadvisor and booked it immediately – so happy I chose it because Borgo Argenina is truly a special place.

The B&B is owned by the lovely Elena, and she is aided by her adorable pups Pasqualina and Giuseppina.  After checking in, Elena gave a nice history of the Chianti area and also highlighted sites/restaurants on a hand-drawn map that guests get to keep – this map is a work of art in itself!  From that point on, I relaxed, caught up with other guests, checked out wineries in the area and took a cooking class at the bed and breakfast.  Elena’s cooking class is not to be missed – I STILL dream about the lasagne we made!

If you are looking for an authentic, unpretentious Tuscany experience in a stunning, movie-like atmosphere…look no further.  Borgo Argenina is not to be missed!  I will always remember my stay there and hope to visit again soon!

http://www.borgoargenina.it/

x Deena

 

VIEWS!

Walking around the property

View from the kitchen

The Hounds

Kitchen

Hand-drawn map for guests

Breakfast room

Living Room

Kitchen

View from my room

View from the Castle

Chianti area

A castle in Chianti

Ingredients for cooking class

About to dig in!

The lasagne I still dream about…

Me, Elena, Erin and Mary Kay.

The Londoner

Hello! It’s been awhile, and in my absence I’ve been quite busy.  I’ve started a new job, packed up my NYC apartment, and moved to London.  It’s been wild! The whole move has been exciting and exhausting, but I’m finally feeling settled in my new city.

London has it’s quirks, but it’s overall charm is undeniable. I’ve already had unforgettable experiences and made lasting friendships in the 4 short months since my move.  And one of those new friends is about to become co-collaborator for b+b!  So lots to look forward to there — though you’ll have to wait a short while as this fabulous friend is uprooting and moving to Hong Kong!  Expat life really is wild.

The past 4 months have been so packed, and life doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon. I’ve already travelled to Stockholm, Mallorca, Amsterdam, Paris, Barcelona, and I have many more weekend trips in the works! I’m very much looking forward to sharing all of my latest adventures 🙂

For now, I’ll just share a bit of my new home. Click the picture below to view some of my favorite days in London so far.

xx

The Weekender

I’m having one of those “is it Friday yet?” kind of weeks.  I usually try to break up my week with dinner plans and other fun extracurriculars, so most of the time I’m not living for the weekend; however, I’m just really itching for a few days off at the moment.

Naturally my mind is shifting to weekend plans and potential getaways.  Luckily I always keep a few travels essentials on hand, so that I’m always prepared for a spontaneous getaway. A bit of prepared spontaneity, I guess.

Here’s some of my absolute favorites for a weekend getaway:

1. The ultimate weekender bag. I LOVE this bag by Everlane – it’s basic, fashionable, and the perfect size! And the price is right at just $95. Available online

2. Favorite PJs by Eberjey. Cute. Comfy. Can’t live without them. I pack these for every trip — they are heaven. Available online for $97.

3. I’m a little embarrassed to admit that I sleep with eye shades, but I do. It’s very Holly Golightly of me, I know. I actually freak out if I forget to pack my eye shades, so I’m considering buying a spare to keep in my weekender bag at all times. I found my favorite pair (pictured above) at Journelle in NYC, and they just came out with this new version, which I might have purchase – I love!

4. Moisture spray is essential for me.  I have very sensitive skin, and if I’m going to be spending several hours in a plane, train, or automobile, I like to make sure that my skin stays hydrated. I love the spring water spray by Eau Thermale Avène. This spray is soothing and great for sensitive skin — just a quick mist midway through your journey, and you’ll feel refreshed and ready for your trip! Avène spray is widely available at drugstores like Duane Reade and Wallgreens — at under $10, this is definitely one of my favorite drugstore buys.

5. Of course I never leave my house without my vitamins!  Travel essentials for me include: B12 for energy, C to ward off contagions, and biotin to keep my hair, skin and nails looking great.

Now I just have to decide where to go…only 3 more days until Friday!