My Trips Gallery - Rafa Sanchez

Nestled in the picturesque Eastern Townships of Quebec, Manoir Hovey is a historic property steeped in charm and sophistication. Originally built in 1900, this stunning estate was inspired by George Washington's Mount Vernon and has since become one of Canada’s most iconic Relais & Châteaux destinations. Surrounded by serene nature and set along the shores of Lake Massawippi, Manoir Hovey offers a blend of tranquility, impeccable service, and timeless elegance.

This week, I had the privilege of visiting this extraordinary retreat with two dear friends to celebrate a birthday, and the experience was nothing short of magical. The scenic drive from Ottawa was breathtaking, and upon arrival, we were warmly greeted by the attentive staff, who ensured every detail of our stay was seamless.

The property’s beauty is unmatched – from its meticulously designed interiors with luxurious wallpaper and elegant furnishings to the soothing scents and thoughtful touches throughout. We stayed in a spacious lakeside suite complete with a private deck, a Nespresso machine, locally crafted beer, plush robes, and luxurious L'Occitane amenities. The suite also featured a stand-alone soaking tub, a rain shower, and the most comfortable bed dressed in premium linens, promising an unforgettable night’s rest.

In the afternoon, we indulged in a spa experience that exceeded all expectations. The spa’s serene ambiance, immaculate cleanliness, and attentive staff ensured pure relaxation. To top it off, the staff kindly picked us up from our room, ensuring we stayed cozy during the chilly weather.

The highlight of our trip was dinner at the renowned Hatley Restaurant. With its two Michelin stars, the restaurant offers a culinary journey showcasing the best of Quebec’s local flavors. Every dish was exquisite, paired perfectly with an exceptional wine selection, making our friend’s birthday celebration truly unforgettable.

The next morning, we enjoyed a delightful breakfast featuring house-made cheeses, cured salmon, fresh pastries, and more – each bite a testament to the kitchen’s dedication to quality and flavor.

Manoir Hovey is more than just a hotel; it’s a haven for those seeking luxury, comfort, and connection to nature. Whether you're looking for a romantic escape, a relaxing girls' trip, or a serene family getaway, this hidden gem is the perfect destination. Its combination of world-class hospitality, stunning lake views, and unique amenities makes it a must-visit in Quebec.

I wholeheartedly recommend Manoir Hovey to anyone in Ontario or Quebec looking for an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the chance to explore this jewel of the Eastern Townships – a place where elegance meets tranquility.

Two weeks ago, I embarked on a journey that felt like stepping into a different world. Sailing around Iceland during the summer, I found myself surrounded by landscapes that were both stark and stunning—where lush green valleys give way to jagged volcanic cliffs, and where the midnight sun casts an otherworldly glow on everything it touches.
The Journey Around Iceland
We began and ended our journey in Reykjavik, Iceland’s lively capital. Over the course of seven days, our yacht, the Star Pride, took us to some of the most remote and beautiful corners of this island nation. The intimacy of traveling aboard a smaller vessel like the Star Pride allowed us to dock in hidden ports and visit places that larger ships often bypass. This made our experience feel personal and exclusive.

Reykjavik: Starting and ending our trip in this vibrant city allowed us to dive into Iceland’s cultural heart. From its world-class museums to its cozy cafes, Reykjavik is a city that blends the old with the new seamlessly.

Seydisfjordur: This charming town, tucked away in a deep fjord, was like something out of a fairytale. Surrounded by mountains still capped with snow even in summer, it felt like stepping into a peaceful oasis far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Akureyri: Often called the "Capital of the North," Akureyri was a highlight of our journey. Not only did we visit the majestic Godafoss Waterfall, but we were also lucky enough to see puffins—adorable little seabirds that are as much a symbol of Iceland as its waterfalls and volcanoes.

Isafjordur: This quaint town in the Westfjords was surrounded by some of the most stunning landscapes we encountered. Here, we had the chance to hike in the untouched wilderness, feeling completely immersed in nature.

Grundarfjordur: Home to the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain, this stop offered the kind of views that make you stop and take a deep breath, just to take it all in. The mountain’s perfect conical shape is mesmerizing, especially with the long summer daylight casting shadows that change by the minute.

Heimaey: Our visit to the Westman Islands and Heimaey was unforgettable, particularly when we saw firsthand the effects of the 1973 volcanic eruption. The resilience of the local community, who rebuilt their town from the ashes, was truly inspiring.

Nature’s Wonders
One of the most thrilling aspects of our journey was the wildlife we encountered along the way. From spotting whales as we navigated Iceland’s waters to watching puffins dart through the air in Akureyri, these moments brought us closer to the raw beauty of nature.

The glacier hikes were another highlight—trekking across these ancient ice formations with knowledgeable guides gave us a deep appreciation for Iceland’s unique geology. And then there was the midnight sun, which never truly set, allowing us to experience the surreal beauty of Iceland bathed in an endless golden light.

I can’t help but acknowledge how Windstar Cruises enhanced this journey. Their attention to detail and commitment to creating an immersive, luxurious experience truly elevated every aspect of the trip. Traveling on the Star Pride, with its intimate size and welcoming atmosphere, made this adventure feel both exclusive and personal. It was the perfect way to explore such a unique and breathtaking destination.

This voyage around Iceland was more than just a trip; it was an experience that will stay with me forever. The landscapes, the wildlife, the endless daylight—all of it combined to create a sense of wonder and awe that is hard to put into words.

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring a place where nature feels both ancient and alive, where every corner reveals a new surprise, Iceland is that place. And while I could go on about the beauty and magic of this island, nothing compares to seeing it with your own eyes.

Ready to embark on your own Icelandic adventure? Let’s start planning your journey to this incredible land of fire and ice.

Our days began at my favorite spot, Café Baggio, where I would savor a cappuccino to kickstart our adventures. Armed with bottles of water to stay hydrated throughout the day and a backpack filled with fresh pastries and snacks from the café, we were ready to explore each enchanting destination.

Setting sail from Barcelona, anticipation bubbled within us as we reserved our check-in time effortlessly through the Celebrity app. Warmly welcomed by the crew, we knew we were in for an extraordinary experience from the moment we stepped aboard.

Our verandah stateroom was nothing short of immaculate, providing us with a serene haven to retreat to after our daily adventures. The attentive staff, who always remembered our names, went above and beyond, creating a personalized and welcoming atmosphere. This attention to detail extended even to the ship's restaurants, where they memorized our favorite drinks each night, adding a special touch to our dining experiences.

In Barcelona, Gaudi's architectural marvels, the lively La Rambla, and the atmospheric Gothic Quarter provided a captivating introduction to the wonders of the Mediterranean. As the sun set, we found ourselves mesmerized by the magical view from the ship's deck. That night, we joined a silent disco party, where my Dutch husband danced to electronic beats, while I grooved to salsa on the Latin channel—an unforgettable, joyous experience.

Sailing into Marseille, we were captivated by the elegance of the French Riviera. Exploring narrow streets, indulging in authentic French pastries, and taking in panoramic views from the ship's deck created unforgettable moments. The buttery croissants and irresistible shopping opportunities added an extra layer of delight to our stay.

Nice greeted us with its signature blend of elegance and charm. Opting for a different excursion to the medieval town of San Paul de Vence, we immersed ourselves in its artistic enclave, captivated by cobblestone streets and a vibrant art scene. That night, we experienced a delightful animated dinner show at the specialty restaurant "Le Petit Chef," where a petite chef animatedly cooked our dinner, projecting the entire show on our dinner plates.

The following day, we set sail for the breathtaking Cinque Terre. The colorful villages clinging to cliffs provided a stunning backdrop for our adventurous day of hiking, indulging in local seafood, and savoring the charm of Monterosso and Vernazza. Returning to the ship, we were greeted with fresh water and cold towels, a thoughtful touch after a day in the July heat. Our evening concluded with a laughter-filled comedy show—a perfect ending to a sun-soaked day.

In Naples, the aroma of pizza welcomed us, inviting us to savor authentic flavors. Exploring Pompeii through a shore excursion allowed us to journey back in time, reflecting on the day's adventures from the ship's elegant balcony as the sun dipped below the horizon.

Sailing into the Strait of Messina, we enjoyed a breathtaking view of the Sicilian coast. Our exploration of Messina revealed a city steeped in history and charm. The evening unfolded with a delectable dinner at Sushi on Five, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the Mediterranean waves.

Our day at sea provided a welcome respite, allowing us to indulge in drinks, sunbathe by the pool, and later enjoy spa treatments to rejuvenate ourselves from the previous days' excursions.

Our grand finale awaited in Rome, the eternal city of wonders. The Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Trevi Fountain dazzled, leaving an indelible mark on our souls. Cruising provided the perfect way to reach these incredible places while enjoying the comforts and amenities of a Celebrity ship.

Sailing through the Italian and French Riviera aboard the Celebrity Reflection was a journey of opulence and discovery. The ship's elegance seamlessly complemented the cultural richness of each port. From the vibrant streets of Barcelona to the timeless allure of Rome, this 10-night adventure was a celebration of luxury, culture, and the breathtaking beauty of the Mediterranean.

Our experience surpassed all expectations, and we wholeheartedly recommend it to our family and friends. This journey was more than just a vacation; it was a fulfilling exploration of diverse cultures and landscapes. Crossing off destinations from our bucket list while experiencing Celebrity Cruises' unparalleled hospitality made this voyage truly unforgettable.