Berlin in Frankfurt

Since we’re all sitting around with no travel plans for the foreseeable future, now is the time to reminisce and enjoy past experiences. I’m mildly embarrassed that it’s been almost six months since I’ve been on here. I really have no excuses now and lots of material to catch up on writing about…so expect to see more?

We’ve been using Air B&B for many of our international and domestic trips for the last five years or so. Knock on wood, we haven’t had any horrible experiences…yet. That said, some were significantly better than others so I thought it would be fun to share five of our favorite spots and a short memory about each. Fair warning, most are favorites because of the views and/or outdoor space. I hope whenever the world settles down, some of you will get the chance to stay in one of these.

Carriage House – Charlottesville, Virginia, USA

Why I loved it: Jeff and I had a weekend getaway at this house two Januarys in a row but sadly didn’t make it for a third. This place isn’t far from downtown Charlottesville for exploring and meals out but feels set apart and quiet. The house is so charming and well-equipped. We really enjoyed the balcony overlooking the pond for morning coffee and the fireplace for cozy evenings.

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A fun memory: Making cocktails and playing Bananagrams and cards in front of the fireplace while sleet came down.

Lakefront apartment – Lake Como, Italy

Why I loved it: The apartment owner was super friendly, greeted us in person, and left us prosecco and fresh fruit. The interior design is modern, sparkling clean and quite dreamy. A highlight: the large french doors that open to a balcony overlooking Lake Como. You can see directly across to Bellagio and the ferry is right outside the door. A friendly family restaurant is located just below.

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A fun memory: Our first stop on an Italy trip, we arrived exhausted but kept pushing through. The next morning, we ate a fresh breakfast on the balcony. As I sipped Italian coffee and ate slices of nectarine, I could literally feel the stress of work and the pace of DC life melting off my body like honey on a warm piece of toast…or water droplets rolling down your window. You get the gist.

Prague flat with rooftop – Prague, Czech Republic

Why I loved it: The apartment is chicly decorated, big TV, skylight over the bed. The host was really helpful and arranged transport to and from the airport. What makes this place really special is the 645 square foot private rooftop which overlooks the Vltava river and the heart of Prague’s downtown, far up and away from the touristy hustle and bustle.

A fun memory: We stayed here for the last couple of nights of a twelve day trip. By the end, we were beyond exhausted from walking and exploring. One night, we decided to stay in. We turned on some music and I made a simple but favorite soup for dinner. We took blankets, sparkling wine, and soup to the rooftop and I pulled out my sketchbook. I don’t remember what I sketched but I do remember how relaxing that moment was. Travel is not always about moving but also sitting still.

Apartment with sea views – Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

Why I loved it: This apartment is set back from the busy Costa Adeje beachfront (about a 20 minute walk). The complex has a nice pool and the apartment is very comfortable and decorated in a fresh and comfortable style. The kitchen has everything you need to cook, which we did almost every night. The star of the show is the terrace – a table for six, two enormous and comfy couches, PLANTS EVERYWHERE, and the most relaxing view. From here you can see the ocean as well as the dusty mountains behind.

A fun memory: We arrived from cold, wintery Germany, threw our stuff inside, and immediately went out to the terrace. We dozed off on the soft white couches in the sun for the afternoon, feeling no pressure to venture out or do anything for the first time in a while.

Hilltop house with river views – Mosel River Valley, Germany

Why I loved it: This property is so special. Owned and decorated by an interior designer, I would describe the style as “Scandinavian/Viking Chic”? Lots of blacks, greys, metals, and wood with premium materials and fixtures throughout. A couple of standout features: absolutely luxe fabrics and linens, all SMEG appliances, a bathroom where the shower is basically the entire room (+ an enormous soaking tub), and the expansive outdoor patio space (a speaker is provided to use outside). You can also literally start hiking to a vineyard or viewpoint from the front door.

A fun memory: One evening, we walked down the street to a tiny family owned winery. The owner was very friendly and so generous with our tastings that we had to wobble back up the hill home.

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There are more I could add to the this favorites list but I’ll leave it five for now. If you have favorites, please leave them in the comments!