My 2026 Travel Goals, Including Italy and Beyond

In 2026 as I extend my travel planning in Italy and beyond its borders, I hope for river cruise itineraries, slower sustainable travel, and rich cultural experiences in Europe that leave space for me to breathe, connect, and truly enjoy every destination. Travel goals include two new countries, a meaningful Sicily ancestral trip, and plenty of new options for my clients that suit everyone’s pace and preferences—so you can see more without feeling rushed.

I need to do more of this (being still) and less ticking boxes on my list.

Here is a brief synopsis of my goals, why, and how I hope to achieve them:

Take a River Cruise

I resolve to embrace effortless river travel by day and unforgettable scenery by night.

Slow Down - Enjoy More

I resolve to return to savoring the moments, not just snapping the photo.

Help My Clients See More of the World

I resolve to curate richer itineraries that balance must-see landmarks with hidden gems.

Visit at Least Two New Countries

I resolve to explore fresh experiences that bring fresh perspectives to planning.

Ancestral Trip to Sicily with My Family

I resolve to find a meaningful blend of heritage, delicious food, big family laughter, and sun-drenched landscapes.

A co-owner of the Fererri (my mother's maiden name) Vineyard in Santa Ninfa, Sicily

How I Plan to Turn These Travel Goals into Memorable Trips

River cruising mindset, not just a FAM itinerary:

As a newcomer to river cruising, I'm considering the Danube, Rhine, or Douro for their relaxed travel days, amazing excursions, tastings, local culture, and stunning scenery.

Slow travel that actually benefits more than me:

  - I love to base in one or two central locations per region and take easy day trips from there.

  - Stay in family-run hotels or boutique lodges that feel like home and support the locals.

  - Trade 12-hour filled itineraries for longer, meaningful stays. It’s hard when, as a travel planner, you need to see as many hotels, restaurants, and experiences as possible for your travel catalog, but this year, I look forward to finding the sweet balance.

Client-centered planning that opens hearts and minds while achieving their bucket list trip:

I want to layer iconic sights with food tours, artisan workshops, and neighborhood strolls, but build in room to linger wherever the heart wants.

Two new countries, one thoughtful approach:

I’m looking for easy-entry points that fit smoothly into my existing plans, such as adding the Amsterdam 3-day extension to my London-Paris tour in October 2026.

Join Me in Paris (and London), October 21-29, 2026

Sicily with family:

A perfect blend of ancient ruins, time in our ancestral town, and space for meaningful and memorable moments with extended family. Base in central (not touristy) spot/s with day trips to Palermo, Agrigento, Syracuse, and Mount Etna.

Why I’m excited (and so should you)

- It blends the magic of Europe with the calm of slow travel—great for savoring a place, not just ticking it off.

- It gives me a rich mix of experiences that honor pace, connection, and meaning.

- It’s a real, doable plan that reflects my time, energy, and love of family moments.

Ready to craft your year of mindful travel? Let’s chat and tailor a plan that fits your calendar, energy, and dreams.

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The Way To Italy has been providing fee-based, custom travel planning for travelers to Italy for 23 years. I handcraft once-in-a-lifetime Italy experiences

down to the last detail.

Contact Me to Help Plan Your Trip Today!

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