Rome with our Meet the World Family – Italy Part 2

Rome with our Meet the World Family – Italy Part 2

From La Minerva Luxury to Orient Express Glamour… and a Venetian Plot Twist

Our Rome experience continued in true VIP fashion as we were picked up by our private driver and whisked away to the stunning Orient Express La Minerva Hotel. From the moment we arrived, it felt special. The front doormen greeted us warmly, escorting us inside where check-in felt more like being welcomed into a private residence than a hotel lobby. We were immediately offered drinks while everything was handled for us, and shortly after, a staff member personally escorted us to our room.

The building itself has deep Roman roots — originally constructed as a noble palace centuries ago — and today it has been beautifully reimagined as part of the Orient Express Hotel Collection. The transformation blends timeless elegance with modern luxury, honoring its historic bones while introducing refined contemporary touches. Think soaring ceilings, marble accents, curated artwork, and service that anticipates your needs before you even realize them.

Later that evening, we attended a welcome cocktail reception. It was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, network, and officially kick off the conference portion of the journey. During the event, we were shown several room categories and treated to a visit to the rooftop restaurant, which offers sweeping views over Rome’s iconic skyline — domes, rooftops, and ancient silhouettes stretching in every direction.  Don’t worry we have photos and videos.

Afterward, we took a short walk (about four blocks) to dinner at a local restaurant recommended by the hotel concierge. There’s something special about dining where locals eat — simple, authentic, and full of flavor.

Sunday, December 7, 2026 – Orient Express Dreams & Roman Grandeur

Sunday morning started early as Mercedes Vito vans took us to the train station — and this was no ordinary station visit. Waiting for us was the legendary Orient Express train, and stepping inside felt like entering another era entirely.

We were welcomed with live music, champagne, scones, petit fours, and pure opulence. The vintage carriages, polished wood, plush seating, and meticulous details transported us straight into classic European glamour. We had time to walk through the train, take photos and videos, and soak in every luxurious inch.

The group then split for lunch, and we headed to the iconic Hotel Hassler, perched at the top of the Spanish Steps. Another spectacular property, we toured several rooms and were guided up to the rooftop for breathtaking city views. Champagne and canapés were served as Rome unfolded beneath us — an unforgettable moment.

Next stop: Palazzo Colonna, one of Rome’s oldest and most impressive private palaces, still owned by the Colonna family today. This historic masterpiece is filled with priceless art, grand galleries, ornate ceilings, and centuries of stories. Walking through its halls felt like stepping into living history.

After returning to La Minerva for a brief break, we regrouped for a special evening surprise: dinner at a traditional Roman pizza restaurant. Simple, delicious, and exactly what you want after a full day of sightseeing.

But the night wasn’t over.

Post-dinner, we piled into adorable VW vans for a nighttime city tour. Cruising through Rome after dark — past illuminated monuments and quiet piazzas — was such a fun and unexpected way to see the Eternal City.

Back at the hotel, we prepared for an early departure, placing our luggage outside our doors where the staff collected everything to be driven ahead to Venice. Then it was off to bed for a well-earned night’s sleep.

Monday, December 8, 2026 – Rome to Venice (and an Unexpected Turn)

Monday morning began with breakfast at La Minerva, included in our stay — a lovely spread of pastries, fruit, eggs, espresso, and everything you’d expect from a luxury European hotel.

From there, we headed to Rome’s train station and boarded the train to Venice. The 3.5-hour ride flew by, and soon we were arriving in one of the world’s most magical cities.

Once in Venice, we boarded a water taxi and were taken for a sneak preview of the new Orient Express Hotel Venice, still under construction and scheduled to open mid-2026. While we weren’t allowed to take photos, I can confidently say it’s going to be absolutely stunning — classic Venetian architecture blended with Orient Express sophistication. It’s going to be a game changer for luxury stays in Venice.

Afterward, another water taxi delivered us to our hotel for the night: The Venice Venice Hotel, a five-star lifestyle property located within the 13th-century Palazzo Ca’ da Mosto, overlooking the Grand Canal near the Rialto Bridge. The hotel is built around a postvenezianità concept, combining the building’s historic Byzantine-era architecture with contemporary art and modern design elements.

And this is where things took a… creative turn.

We were upgraded to a premium penthouse-style room that technically had space, a kitchen, and high ceilings — but also featured what can only be loosely described as conceptual art. Inside the room was an exhibit piece consisting of an old television sitting on hay with a towel. Yes, hay. You truly can’t make this stuff up.

The room itself was slanted and oddly laid out, making it far from functional despite its size. Definitely not what we expected — or wanted — after days of luxury.  We couldn’t stand up in the shower with the ceiling height and Sean only was able to shave as he remembered his yoga from years prior–he had to do the tree pose sideways and combine it with a side stretch to see in the mirror.

That evening, we were taken to dinner for a traditional Venetian meal. Venetian cuisine leans heavily into seafood — sardines, sea bass, and even canal fish — which just wasn’t our thing. After a few polite bites, we made a quick exit.  For those that like sardines, the meal would have been lovely.  This was just not to our personal taste.  

Scott was officially starving.

So we did what any hungry travelers would do….went to find the closest thing open. I bet you can’t guess what was closest to the restaurant.

We found a McDonald’s and simply laughed. 

Sometimes, even on a luxury European journey, fries just hit the spot.

Tuesday, December 9, 2026 – Business in Venice (and a Much-Needed Hotel Upgrade)

Tuesday morning started early with supplier meetings, so we grabbed breakfast at the Venice Venice Hotel before heading out to meet our water taxi. For anyone who’s never been to Venice, this is important to know: walking and water taxis are how you get around. There are no cars, no bicycles, no scooters — just boats and feet navigating a maze of canals and alleys.  

The entryway to our water taxi was so narrow that Scott had to sit outside with the driver, while the rest of us squeezed inside. Just another uniquely Venetian experience. Not a complaint, but it is something to keep in mind.  Along those lines, the city is not very friendly for disabled travelers.

Our business meetings were held at the Hilton Molino Stucky, with rapid-fire appointments beginning at 9:00 am.  Each meeting was just seven minutes long, but we managed to connect with an impressive lineup of suppliers — hotels, attractions, and partners from Venice, Rome, Paris, and beyond. It was fast-paced but productive, and exactly why events like Meet the World are so valuable for travel advisors.

During the morning our host came to us and graciously offered to move us to another property.  Between the slanted room, no mirrors (I literally had to shave in the kitchen while staring at the art installation), zero accessible outlets, and Scott banging his head on exposed beams in the shower and in the toilet area, there were just too many issues to overlook. While we appreciate creative spaces, functionality still matters, especially when you’re living out of a suitcase.  So, we readily accepted and we were very grateful.

After our meetings, our host helped us return briefly to our room, pack up quickly, load our luggage onto a water taxi, and move to the Hotel Gabrielli Veniza, a member of the Leading Hotels of the World and one of Venice’s most impressive and perfectly situated hotels. Set along the Riva degli Schiavoni just steps from St. Mark’s Square, this 5-star property delivers an exceptional sense of place—historic, elegant, and unmistakably Venetian. From the gracious, attentive service to the beautifully designed rooms and unforgettable lagoon views, every detail felt thoughtful and refined. The rooftop terrace alone is reason enough to stay, offering some of the most spectacular views in the city. Hotel Gabrielli is a standout choice for travelers seeking timeless luxury, authenticity, and an elevated Venetian experience.

After getting settled, we prepared for a true treat and one of the most memorable experiences of the trip: a private nighttime tour of the Doge’s Palace.

The palace was once the political heart of the Venetian Republic and home to the Doge, the oldest and highest political position in the Venetian Republic. Walking its halls after hours felt surreal. We explored grand chambers adorned with Renaissance masterpieces, crossed the famous Bridge of Sighs, and learned about centuries of power, politics, and intrigue. Seeing the palace illuminated at night, without crowds, made the history feel even more alive.

Following the tour, we were taken to the elegant Hotel Danieli, a Four Seasons Hotel, for cocktails and a site inspection — a fitting end to such an extraordinary evening. Located steps from St. Mark’s Square with sweeping views across the Venetian Lagoon, the Danieli is renowned for its dramatic Gothic palazzo architecture, grand public spaces, and deep connection to Venice’s aristocratic past. The inspection highlighted the hotel’s sense of scale, legendary service standards, and prime location, making it a strong option for travelers seeking a classic, heritage-driven luxury experience in the heart of Venice.

While there, we connected with Randy Yaroch, owner of The Travel Society, who generously took all nine Travel Society members in attendance out for dinner. It was a wonderful chance to relax, recap the day, and enjoy good food and even better company.

After dinner, we returned to our hotel and finally settled in for a good night’s sleep — grateful for a more comfortable room, a full day of productive meetings, and unforgettable experiences in one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

Wednesday, December 10, 2026 – Foggy Canals, Focused Meetings & a Magical Night in Murano

Wednesday started early once again with breakfast at our hotel — included with our stay and very appreciated after a busy few days. From there, we boarded our water taxi to head back to the Hilton Molino Stucky for another full morning of supplier meetings.

This morning felt especially Venetian, as a thick blanket of fog hung over the canals. Visibility was limited, and the ride took a bit longer than usual, but it was beautiful in its own way — quiet waterways, silhouettes of buildings emerging through the mist, and that unmistakable feeling of being somewhere truly special.

Back at the Hilton, we jumped into another round of seven-minute appointments, connecting with even more hoteliers and attractions from Rome, Venice, and France. These fast-paced sessions may be short, but they’re incredibly impactful — giving us direct access to partners and experiences we can later curate for our clients.

After lunch, Scott and I decided to head back to the hotel to catch up on client emails and calls. With so many moving pieces back home, it was important to carve out time to stay connected and keep things running smoothly while we were abroad.

That evening brought yet another unforgettable experience.  We were escorted from our hotel to a waiting water taxi, which transported us across the lagoon to Murano. As we stepped off the boat, we were greeted with a red carpet welcome — and instantly knew this was going to be something special.

Murano is world-renowned for its glassmaking heritage, dating back to the 13th century when Venetian authorities moved glass workshops to the island to reduce fire risks in Venice and protect trade secrets. For centuries, Murano glass has been prized around the globe for its craftsmanship, artistry, and innovation.

The evening was nothing short of spectacular.  Glass artisans demonstrated their craft right before our eyes, shaping molten glass into intricate creations. There were dancers, aerialists performing above us, a DJ setting the vibe, flowing champagne and cocktails, and endless food stations to sample from. The entire island felt alive with energy — a beautiful blend of tradition and modern celebration.

After soaking it all in, we boarded our water taxi and made our way back to the hotel, tired but inspired, grateful for another incredible day of meetings, culture, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Thursday, December 11, 2026 – Venetian Palaces, Private Water Taxis & The Journey Home

Thursday began with a very special experience thanks to Roberto Dazzo, whose family owns three beautiful hotels in Venice. Roberto picked us up personally in his private water taxi and took us to the first property, Hotel Palazzo Stern, a historic masterpiece on the Grand Canal.

Our site inspection at Hotel Palazzo Stern in Venice was nothing short of inspiring. The palace began in the 15th century as a Venetian‑Byzantine residence, and it was later expanded and meticulously restored by the Stern family in the early 20th century, which is how it acquired the Stern name. Its architecture today reflects a blend of neo‑Gothic, Venetian Gothic, and Art Nouveau styles, enriched with original frescoes, mosaics, and carefully preserved historical elements that showcase Venice’s layered cultural history.

Inside, Palazzo Stern feels more like a living museum than a hotel, with antique furniture, Murano glass chandeliers, and artworks incorporated throughout — a testament to the Stern family’s passion for fine art and craftsmanship. Each room is individually styled with rich Venetian textiles, gilded accents, and period décor, many overlooking the Grand Canal or the quieter Rio del Malpaga, providing guests with an immersive Venetian experience.

One of the highlights of our inspection was breakfast, which, weather permitting, could be had on the canal‑facing terrace, where fresh, beautifully presented dishes and the uninterrupted views of gondolas and vaporetti gliding by created a truly memorable start to the day.

Location is another standout: nestled in the artistic Dorsoduro district, Palazzo Stern sits just steps from the Accademia Bridge and Ca’ Rezzonico vaporetto stop, giving easy access to Venice’s major cultural sites while maintaining a peaceful, authentic ambiance. With thoughtful service, impeccable preservation of historic detail, and a sense of living art at every turn, Hotel Palazzo Stern is an exceptional choice for travelers seeking architectural richness, artistic heritage, and breathtaking Grand Canal views.

After breakfast, Roberto whisked us away by water taxi to his next property, the Hotel Santa Chiara, which charmed us during our site inspection. This delightful 4‑star boutique hotel perfectly blends modern comfort with authentic Venetian character, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere from the moment you arrive. One of its biggest advantages? It’s accessible by car, located right at Piazzale Roma, Venice’s main gateway for vehicles—so arriving with luggage is effortless, a rare convenience in a city built on canals.

Inside, the hotel exudes charm and thoughtful design. Rooms are bright, comfortable, and stylishly appointed, making them a peaceful retreat after a day exploring the city. Hotel Santa Chiara feels like the ideal combination of convenience, comfort, and Venetian personality—a boutique gem that makes Venice instantly more accessible and memorable.

Plus, it has an instagram moment! One of the standout details at Hotel Santa Chiara is the striking owl sculpture by Venetian artist Gian Maria Potenza, displayed just outside the hotel. Potenza’s work, known for its expressive and whimsical style, adds a unique artistic touch that catches the eye and delights visitors. It’s the kind of detail that makes the hotel feel curated and personal, and it has naturally become a favorite for photos, giving guests a memorable—and very Instagrammable—moment before they even step inside.

Roberto’s last property is named after the famed composer Antonio Vivaldi, who once lived nearby, Locanda Vivaldi. Located right on the Riva degli Schiavoni waterfront, just a short stroll from St. Mark’s Square and the Bridge of Sighs, Hotel Locanda Vivaldi is a refined 4‑star boutique hotel that embodies classic Venetian elegance and history. Housed in a historic building once connected to composer Antonio Vivaldi, the property welcomes guests with interiors rich in Venetian character — from Murano glass chandeliers and marble floors to brocade fabrics and antique furnishings that evoke the city’s artistic heritage. Many rooms offer spectacular views over the San Marco Basin, where you can watch gondolas and vaporetti glide across the lagoon at sunrise. The hotel also features a seasonal rooftop terrace restaurant with breathtaking 180‑degree panoramas of St. Mark’s Basin, Giudecca, San Giorgio Maggiore, and more, making it a standout spot for a memorable aperitif or dinner. With its intimate size, stellar location, and warm, personalized service, Locanda Vivaldi delivers a quintessentially Venetian experience that’s both romantic and deeply connected to place — perfect for travelers who want history, beauty, and lagoon views right at their doorstep.

Next, Roberto had his water taxi take us to our pre-arranged hotel for the night:  Ca’ Sagredo Hotel.

Stepping into Ca’ Sagredo Hotel, a 5-star Venetian masterpiece and member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, as well as a distinguished Virtuoso property, is like entering a living museum of Venetian history and art. This 15th-century palace, declared a National Monument, still preserves the grandeur of its past as a noble residence, with architecture and décor that have remained remarkably intact over the centuries. Just gliding up the imposing marble staircase — while resisting the playful urge to tap a cherub’s peachy cheek — feels positively regal. The opulently frescoed ballroom and lounges are breathtaking, their walls and ceilings adorned with delicate, centuries-old frescoes depicting Venetian myth, history, and allegory, each brushstroke echoing with the drama of epic events once hosted here.

Every corner of Ca’ Sagredo feels curated and alive, a true living museum where original artworks, antique furniture, and decorative details coexist seamlessly with modern comforts. Even the rooms and suites carry the palace’s artistic legacy: walls feature rich Venetian plaster and fresco accents, while gilded moldings, Murano glass chandeliers, and elegant textiles recall the opulence of an aristocratic residence. Each suite is individually styled, blending classic Venetian design, ornate furniture, and subtle contemporary touches to create a space that feels both luxurious and historically authentic. The effect is immersive — a stay here is not just accommodation, it’s an experience of living within Venice’s storied past.

Views from the hotel are equally enchanting: the Grand Canal and the historic Rialto Market opposite provide storybook scenes of daily Venetian life, where gondolas drift by and water taxis glide past the palace façade.

As a Virtuoso property, Ca’ Sagredo enhanced our experience with generous Virtuoso benefits, which included free breakfast for two, a $100 food and beverage credit, a free glass of prosecco, a complimentary upgrade, and a three-plate dinner — all designed to immerse guests in the palace’s refined elegance.

From the artistry of the frescoes to the carefully preserved antiques, from the romantic canal views to the luxurious suites, Ca’ Sagredo Hotel is a rare Venetian treasure — a romantic, opulent, and deeply authentic experience that truly lets you live within the city’s art and history.

After checking in and dropping off our luggage, we headed out for a walking tour of Venice with our local partner, winding through narrow alleys, crossing quiet bridges, and soaking in the rhythm of everyday Venetian life.

Our guide escorted us to the Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, which is an absolute must see.  The Basilica is one of those unforgettable Venice experiences where art, history, and spirituality converge in an awe‑inspiring space. This monumental Franciscan church dates back to the 13th century and was rebuilt in stunning Venetian Gothic style in the 14th and 15th centuries, its plain brick exterior belying the artistic riches within. Stepping inside feels like entering a living museum: the soaring nave with ribbed vaults and massive columns leads you through centuries of Venetian devotion and creativity, housing masterpieces by Renaissance greats. At the high altar, Titian’s monumental Assumption of the Virgin dominates the space with explosive color, dramatic movement, and luminous light — widely considered his greatest religious work and the largest altarpiece in Venice. Nearby, you’ll find Titian’s Pesaro Madonna and Giovanni Bellini’s serene Frari Triptych, works that anchor the basilica’s extraordinary art collection. Scattered throughout the church are grand tombs and funerary monuments for Venetian luminaries — including the monumental tomb to Titian himself and the striking pyramid monument honoring neoclassical sculptor Antonio Canova — blending sculptural art with sacred memory. A rare survivor of its original medieval wooden choir stalls, carved in 1468, underscores the basilica’s historical depth and craftsmanship. Whether you’re drawn by the art, the architecture, or the palpable sense of history that fills every aisle and chapel, the Frari stands as one of Venice’s most powerful and inspiring cultural landmarks — a place where masterpieces and memories live side by side. 

From the Basilica, Melissa had arranged an amazing visit to the Palazzo Venart, another stunning historic palace along the Grand Canal. Originally a noble residence, this magnificent palazzo has been lovingly restored into an intimate luxury hotel, preserving its original architecture while seamlessly integrating modern refinement and comfort. The moment we arrived, we were treated to a curated lunch personally selected by the chef, a multi-course feast that was absolutely delectable, showcasing the finest Venetian flavors with creativity and precision — a true culinary welcome.

Following this exceptional meal, we conducted a thorough inspection of the property, including the rooms and suites, and were deeply impressed by the attention to detail throughout. Each space reflects the palazzo’s historic grandeur, from elegant frescoed ceilings and antique furnishings to modern touches that ensure both style and comfort. The combination of historic charm, refined interiors, and personalized service creates an atmosphere of exclusive, understated luxury.

Later, we had the privilege of enjoying a chef’s tasting menu, a masterful showcase of Venetian culinary artistry that perfectly complemented the palazzo’s opulent surroundings. From start to finish, our visit to Palazzo Venart highlighted why this property stands out as one of Venice’s most elegant and thoughtfully curated hotels, offering guests an immersive experience of history, art, and gastronomy on the Grand Canal.

Afterward, we returned to Ca’ Sagredo so Scott could rest for a bit. While he recharged, I explored the hotel’s upper floors during a private event, taking in even more of the palace’s remarkable details.

Sean declared the respite over and made Melissa and Scott go outside the hotel to grab a gondola. After all, when in Venice, you have to do a Gondola ride.  Sean claimed he thought it was a law or something, and Melissa and Scott were too tired to argue with him.  So, Melissa, Scott and Sean all climbed in the gondola for a lovely city tour by water. 

Right after, we joined our local partner who treated us to a private tour followed by a traditional bacaro (wine bar) tour, giving us one last taste of Venice’s vibrant food and wine culture. We dove headfirst into cicchetti, the city’s irresistible take on tapas, hopping from bar to bar and savoring small plates bursting with Venetian flavor — from creamy baccalà mantecato to fresh marinated seafood and vibrant crostini. 

Along the way, we strolled past Marco Polo’s original residence, a striking reminder of Venice’s epic history. One stop, In Corte dell’Orso, felt perfectly on brand for us as the Smoky Mountain Bears — cozy, welcoming, and full of character. Every bite, every canal-side corner, and every quirky little detail made for a memorable, photo-ready Venetian adventure that combined culture, history, and culinary delight in the most delicious way.

As we had an early flight the next morning, we decided to walk back to our hotel and enjoy our three plate dinner at the Ca’ Sagredo.

Dining at Ca’ Sagredo is as much an art form as the building itself. The hotel’s restaurant perfectly matches the opulent historic setting of the palace, with frescoed ceilings, gilded moldings, and views over the Grand Canal creating a dramatic, elegant backdrop. The three-course dinner we enjoyed showcased Venetian cuisine at its finest: each dish was beautifully presented, with fresh, local ingredients elevated through thoughtful, creative preparation. From delicate seafood starters to perfectly cooked mains and indulgent desserts, every bite reflected both tradition and innovation.

The experience was complemented by a carefully curated selection of wines and cocktails, perfectly paired to enhance the flavors of each course. The service was attentive yet unobtrusive, allowing us to savor the meal at our own pace while absorbing the richness of the historic surroundings. Dinner at Ca’ Sagredo is more than a meal — it’s a culinary journey that immerses you in Venice’s art, history, and flavor, making it an unforgettable highlight of the hotel experience while we savored our final night in Italy. 

The Journey Home – And the Reality of Travel

The next morning came early. Our private water taxi picked us up and took us to Venice’s main entrance, where a private car transferred us to Venice Airport. From there, we checked in with Turkish Airlines for our journey home — Venice to Istanbul, then Istanbul to Atlanta.

We were delayed and barely made it to our plane on time in Istanbul.  The Istanbul airport is very large.  We flagged down a golf cart taxi (yes, they have taxis), to take us to our flight.  When we arrived, they were already boarding. We were two of the last folks on the plane.

Unfortunately, our luggage didn’t make the connection.  So, when we arrived in Atlanta, we only had our carry on.

But after everything we’d experienced, we rolled with it.  We planned on staying in Atlanta anyway, so we would just get our luggage when it arrived the next day.  We took a shuttle from 

the airport to collect our car at the DoubleTree Airport Hotel and then drove to the InterContinental Buckhead, where we checked in.

That’s when reality hit.

I barely made it to the room before getting violently sick. Scott, ever the trooper, managed to make it to the concierge lounge for food and drinks while I stayed in bed, unable to move.  Don’t worry though. Our review of the hotel will be posted shortly.

Saturday, December 13, 2026 – When Travel Gets Real

Saturday morning, Scott toured the hotel while I remained sick and unable to get up. Thankfully, we had a late checkout — but I still wasn’t well enough to travel, so we booked another night, but this time we moved across the street, Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead, a Hyatt Prive property.

Scott once again saved the day, visiting the concierge level for food, drinks, and even Christmas cookies they had out for guests.  I enjoyed the amazing hotel room that we had, when he was awake.   Don’t worry we shall review this hotel as well.  

Sometimes travel isn’t glamorous.

Sometimes it’s luxury hotels one day and ginger ale the next. 

Or, in our case, we got lucky.  We had luxury hotels one day and then one day it’s a luxury hotel and ginger ale.

Sunday – Finally Home

Sunday morning brought a later checkout, and thankfully, I was well enough to make it to the car. We drove home, exhausted, grateful, and reminded that even the most beautifully curated journeys come with unexpected twists.  Like when Scott got sick an hour after we made it home that night.

Oh, the joy of travel.

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