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As you glide along in the sky, gazing out the window, just before landing, there is a pivotal moment of being lost, lost in the spell of Ireland; the spell of the patchwork of lush and picturesque land—a land that measures from warm, golden yellow hues to indescribably rich shades of jade, malachite, and emerald.
But beyond the land, the wondrous Irish landscape is surrounded by almost architectural, asperous cliffs, offset by soft beaches, kissed by sparkling waters. 
The third-largest island in Europe, Ireland is divided between the Republic of Ireland, and Northern Ireland, a part of the United Kingdom. The lush vegetation of this 'Emerald Isle', as it is poetically known, is attributed to the mild but changeable oceanic climate; the land is made up of low-lying mountains surrounding a central plain and several rivers running inland . . .
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. . . and in other exciting news : there will be a wonderful new extension to the {take me away} series, after many lovely requests, and the first installment of which, will appear a little later today, but first, a glimpse of what is come, in the form of a tiny 15-room boutique hotel in the seventh arrondissement, that also happens to include a michelin-starred restaurant, and the most fun mix of colours & patterns, brought together by designer india mahdavi; besides beautiful powder rooms enveloped in carerra [and with aesop bath products, at that], there is a view of la tour eiffel just outside the window . . .
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The second largest city in Spain, Barcelona has a history that dates back long, long ago—2000 years ago, in fact, with a spellbinding vibe of light, passion, culture and character.
Here, somehow, the heavenly Mediterranean sunlight is seemingly more delicious when set against beguiling architecture, narrow alleyways, expansive waters, and in the gleam of each and every Barcelonian's eye.
Indeed, this seaside city calls visitors from near and far to walk alongside the works of great visionaries, of natural wonders, breathtaking points, and countless sights; to live as locals do, and to breath in the beautiful story of such an indescribably fascinating city . . .CONTINUE ---------------------------------->
For many, it is the dream—the dream to travel abroad and to walk the very grounds in which were walked upon by great literary artists long ago—their words replaying in our minds and lives today. The dream to breath in the scent of the famously fragrant roses, lovingly kept and carefully maintained . . . 
. . . to take tea as was traditionally planned and created, to touch upon the stones that were laid so many years ago and to gaze up to the thatch roof lines of centuries gone by.
The heart of England lies within the very threads of its culture—the language of customs, of beauty, of traditions, of arts. Indeed, the dream does not lie in sights alone, but in scents, tastes, sounds, and feelings of the heart itself—a secret that whispers about, and if we listen, we might just catch on.
And just when most life is asleep for the duration of this winter season, we might see a whole new angle to the respected art of one of the most integral parts of England: English gardens. And in truth, the lines and forms of such spectacular gardens might be most appreciated in their simplicity, draped in alabaster frost.
. . . and so, today we ask you to join us as we set along on foot, imagining a walk in and amongst some of the greatest gardens in the world there ever were . . .CONTINUE ---------------------------------->
St.Petersburg’s rich history can be found as one strolls up and down every street, and inside every little shop and restaurant; within the grand walls of every awe-inspiring palace, painted in the past, and with every foot that touches upon every stage.
The city is, simply put, brimming with history and sprinkled with endlessly beautiful [and fortuitous] points of culture to take in; and of the endless list of possible places to visit, Peterhof (Petrodvorets), a breathtaking palace also known as the Russian Versailles, The [lavish] Winter Palace, as well as The Winter Canal, and St.Isaac’s Cathedral, are just a few of the must-see sites. Here, tradition is recognized, remembered and celebrated.
And if possible, one must take in a performance or two while visiting, as Russian ballet is known all over the world for exquisite performances, there is luckily, [and nearby] The Hermitage Theatre—just one of the lovely possibilities.
Come away with us, on an adventure in beauty and culture, as we catch a glimpse of the enchanting city of St. Petersburg, Russia . . .CONTINUE ---------------------------------->
Rather synonymous with the beautifully hued and brisk autumn season is equestrian style -- perhaps it is due to the association with all that is classically equestrian— beginning primarily with the rich colors . . .
. . . at home, the warm, textural plaid blankets, and paintings of races hung in hallways; hearty, blazing fires and stylishly, meticulously finished and fitted crested blazers, buttery soft leather riding boots, gloves, and the like.
Perhaps what is so fascinating and alluring are the aristocratic appeal and the open adventures outdoors that these things also represent, or, maybe it is the old world appeal—the history, the sport, and the celebration, as well the beauty of horses to be appreciated.
Though certainly not succinct only with autumn, with layers and leaves falling, an appreciation of equestrian beauty is afresh and particular notes of equestrian style (such as beloved Hermès blankets) returns . . .
Beyond magnifying equestrian style, for many, an equestrian escape, where one might enjoy the sport, races, adventures and exploring different trails and areas, is befitting.
From an exotic and welcoming resort in India, to a classic castle in England full of comforts, here is a selection of a variety of lovely accommodations, worldwide, to visit . . .CONTINUE ---------------------------------->
