eliza travel

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and beyond

Hi, I’m Elliza.

Your GUIDE to the art of leisurely travel and the pursuit of "Dolce Far Niente."

My passion for wanderlust has taken me to the far corners of the world, and through this travel blog, I invite you to embark on your own journey of savoring life's sweet moments. As a corporate professional turned travel enthusiast, I've walked the streets of bustling cities and found tranquility in the rustic charm of hidden gems. I cherish unique experiences that come from slowing down, immersing myself in the heartbeat of quaint communities, and letting the world reveal its beauty at its own pace.

This website is for the CURIOUS TRAVELER who yearns for more than the ordinary, who dreams of recreating that sense of childhood magic. Together, we'll glide across the Mediterranean's warmth, and embark on a quiet experience that transcends the confines of a typical tourist itinerary.

I know that travel can be DAUNTING, especially with the uncertainty that COVID has brought. That's why I'm here to share my insights and favorite places that help me reconnect with the magic of travel. You see, I'm just like you—someone who craves authentic experiences, fears bad experiences, and values both time and money.

So, if you're a traveler who revels in rustic scenery, appreciates the charm of antique items, and finds joy in the quirks of life, then you're in the right place. Let's EXPLORE the essence of life, one leisurely adventure at a time.

As a child, traveling abroad was but an unattainable dream for me.. I would stare at the airplanes on the sky and would think how lucky are those who leave their mondane life and what an adventure awaits them.. I thought I would never experience that..So when I finally graduated from Dental school and could afford to splurge, I vowed to myself that I would make my dream come true. One of my reasons to never have a child was just this! I didn’t want anything to hinder my dream that I worked so hard to attain..

The first time I experienced Dolce far niente was my first trip to Italy which was with my husband Reza.. I opened the shutter windows in our hotel in San Gimignano and was stunned by the view of the infamous green rolling hills and windy roads lined with tall Cypress tress .. The medieval rooftops of the village glowing under the orange hues of the Sunset.. It was a breathtaking view that left me speechless and I just started crying.. Had no idea why.. Could not stop the tears..

It was really strange and could not understand why I couldn’t stop the tears.. But I was so deeply moved.. That was the moment I experienced the feeling of wanting to just be in the moment and take in all there is to feel in each moment wherever I choose to be..The impactful realization was how much richer I feel after every trip abroad is what keeps me going back. I return with less money but my life is by far more enriched with all the new experiences and priceless memories..

As a child, traveling abroad was but an unattainable dream for me.. I would stare at the airplanes on the sky and would think how lucky are those who leave their mondane life and what an adventure awaits them.. I thought I would never experience that..So when I finally graduated from Dental school and could afford to splurge, I vowed to myself that I would make my dream come true. One of my reasons to never have a child was just this! I didn’t want anything to hinder my dream that I worked so hard to attain..

San Gimignano,

Italy

Often dubbed the "Medieval Manhattan," is a charming Tuscan town that boasts more medieval towers than you can shake a gelato at. With its skyline of ancient skyscrapers and captivating cobblestone streets, it's a delightful step back in time for every time-traveler.