Nan Knows Travel

06/01/2026

What do you get when a world-class art collection, a glamorous neoclassical mansion, and Acropolis Parthenon view share the same address? The Dolli. With Picasso and Cocteau art displayed as naturally as fresh flowers, this unique Athens hotel creates a stay that leaves you wondering whether you stepped into a hotel or into the most beautiful dream Athens has to offer.

05/30/2026

Crystal Had Me at Butter

My last Crystal cruise was more than a decade ago, so I boarded with curiosity and high expectations. I’m happy to report that Crystal Serenity exceeded them.
In fact, Crystal had me at La Conviette butter. That may sound like an unusual measure of luxury, but seasoned travelers know the little things tell the story. Crystal serves rich, creamy La Conviette butter from Normandy, and after one bite I thought, Someone here understands quality. My theory has always been that if a company invests in exceptional butter, they’re probably investing in exceptional ingredients everywhere else.
The dining was excellent in every restaurant, the service warm and attentive, and the ship impeccably maintained. One evening at Osteria d’Ovidio, we splurged on a beautifully aged Pio Cesare Barolo, expertly decanted and served in magnificent stemware. The presentation was so grand I wasn’t sure whether to drink the wine or stand and applaud it.

I can confidently say Crystal has reclaimed its place among the very very best.

05/29/2026

Crystal Serenity - They had me at Butter

05/29/2026

Crystal Cruises-They Had Me at BUTTER
(and Barolo)
My last Crystal cruise was more than a decade ago, so I boarded Crystal Serenity curious to see how the new Crystal measured up.
Crystal exceeded my expectations.
In fact, Crystal “had me” at La Conviette Butter and Barolo.
That may sound unusual, but experienced travelers know the little things matter. One of my biggest dining disappointments is bland, forgettable butter. Crystal serves the exceptional French La Conviette butter, produced in Normandy and prized for its rich flavor and creamy texture. When a cruise line invests in butter of that quality, it’s usually a sign that quality ingredients are a priority throughout the restaurants onboard. The dining was consistently excellent, but one evening at Osteria d’Ovidio stood out. A fine Barolo was expertly decanted and served in beautiful generously sized wine glass designed to maximize the wine’s bouquet and complexity. It wasn’t just wine service—it was an unforgettable experience.
Beyond the food, the service was warm, polished, and remarkably attentive. The ship is beautifully maintained, elegant and exceptionally comfortable.
After sailing many luxury cruise lines over the years, I can confidently say Crystal has an edge on luxury cruising. 'Ovidio

05/26/2026

Crystal has 24-hour butler service. I boarded Crystal Serenity and was reminded why Crystal’s butler program is among the best at sea.
A special shout-out to Coren, one of Crystal Serenity’s Head Butlers, who somehow manages to be everywhere at once without ever breaking a sweat. Need something? Coren already thought of it. Looking for your butler? He’s probably three steps ahead, quietly making your day better.
Nan says if mind-reading became an official cruise activity, Coren would win gold, silver, and bronze.

From flawless in-suite dining to those “How did they know I wanted that?” moments, he makes luxury feel effortless while teaching future Crystal butlers how it’s done.

ExceptionalService NanKnowsTravel

05/20/2026

A destination wedding in Greece is honestly one of the best ways to begin a marriage. 🇬🇷✨
Kalesma Mykonos is a hotel perfect for it — romantic, dramatic views, elegant, peaceful, and just removed enough from the Mykonos madness to make everyone feel glamorous.
And frankly, if a couple can survive coordinating relatives, passports, and a Greek island wedding together… the marriage already has excellent odds.
It’s easier if we do the planning and travel arrangements. 🍸

05/06/2026

It’s all about the Details.

02/26/2026

Today in Auckland delivered peak New Zealand, a sheep farm, cliffs, and an aromatic bird colony. Whenuanui’s sheep and cattle dotted the landscape. The farmer sheared a lamb in under 2- minutes flat. Then the real manager of the operation appeared. A 9-year old, shepherding dog. He moved the sheep with laser focus except for his memory lapse. Yes, mid task he would pause. Just stand there. Blink. Then right back to work as if nothing had happened. Next stop Maukatia Takapu Gannet Refuge. The sound? Imagine a thousand squeaky toys. The birds were fast and precise, diving off the cliffs plunging into the sea like missiles. Dive Technique Score 10. 🌊🐑🐦

02/24/2026

An Auckland stop over on Silversea Silver Dawn well somehow I ended up enjoying a Private Car and Driver. Yes a polished black Mercedes pulled up. The chauffeur opened the door. I slid in like I had somewhere extremely important to be. In reality, I was visiting the beautiful city of Auckland NZ. We zoomed up to Mount Eden where we stood dramatically over the city, then to Viaduct Harbour where we waved at posh yachts and sailboats. Having a driver/chauffeur is not about grandeur. It is about deleting the background noise so you can feel the destination.
The best part? My only task was sitting with good posture in the back seat.
For one glorious morning in Auckland, I was not on a schedule or answering emails, I was totally free to absorb the
magic of this special place.

02/18/2026