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The stories we're most proud of — deep dives, essays, and journeys worth savoring.
France
Cannes Day Trip to Saint Paul de Vence is worth it, but we liked Saint Jeannet
We planned this as the classic Cannes-area inland day trip: leave the beach behind, drive up to Saint-Paul-de-Vence, walk the medieval streets, have lunch, and keep moving. Saint-Paul-de-Vence did deliver the stone lanes, small shops, viewpoints, and a very good lunch at Les Remparts. The surprise was that Saint-Jeannet suited us better. We stayed nearby at Le Moulin Camoula, came into Saint-Jeannet for the evening, and had dinner at L'adorse D'ana. If a friend asked us how to do this, we would still say go to Saint-Paul-de-Vence, but do not let it be the whole story.
France
7 Days on the French Riviera: Cannes to Nice
Come with us on a 7-day French Riviera guide. We actually spent more than three weeks based in Cannes, which gave us time to explore the region slowly and understand what truly works. This itinerary reflects how we would structure a focused 7-day version of what we would plan if we did the trip again. At Durfee Travel Blog, we only share about places we have actually been. We plan the trip, live the detours, and tell you what was worth the time.
France
Day Trip from Cannes to Eze, Menton, Saint-Jeannet
The day started early in Èze, and that turned out to be one of our best decisions. Arriving before the crowds gave us time to wander the medieval stone streets and enjoy some of the French Riviera’s most spectacular views in relative peace. Perched high above the Mediterranean, Èze has been drawing visitors for centuries, and the scenery explains why. From there, we headed east to Menton, France’s last major town before Italy. Known for its colorful waterfront and laid-back atmosphere, Menton sits between the mountains and the sea, creating one of the Riviera’s most beautiful bays. Lunch was simple and perfect for the setting: pizza by the waterfront. Later, we grabbed a serving of fries and found a shaded café table overlooking the bay. Sometimes the best travel moments aren’t complicated. They’re just good food, a little shade, and a great view. We finished the day inland in Saint-Jeannet, beneath the towering Baou de Saint-Jeannet. A local wine tasting provided the perfect ending to a day that took us from a medieval hilltop village, to the Mediterranean coast, and finally into the foothills above the Riviera. Not a bad way to spend a day on the Côte d’Azur.
France
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: Where Sun-Drenched Stones Whisper History
We rolled into Avignon, fresh off a TGV from Paris, trading the metropolitan rush for something altogether more languid. The plan? Dive headfirst into the sun-baked villages and rolling vineyards of Provence. Forget the rosé — though, yes, we had some — the real quest was for those hidden reds and crisp whites, the ones that taste like the very soil they sprung from. Our base: Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, a village that felt less like a destination and more like a gentle embrace. Narrow streets, shuttered windows, and the scent of lavender on the breeze. It was a good call. A very good call.
France
Eating Well in Paris in Your 20s: Affordable, Authentic, and Unforgettable
Discover how to experience the best of Parisian food culture without overspending. From local bakeries to casual dinners and hidden gems, here’s how to eat well in Paris in your 20s.
Italy
Napoli: The Art of Stumbling Upwards
We usually plan trips with spreadsheets, but Naples taught us the best moments happen while walking off a "pizza coma." We started at 400 Gradi Rapuano Pizzeria near the Spanish Quarter with reckless abandon. First came Pizza Fritta, a delicious cross between a donut and a calzone. Next was Tarallo Pizza, topped with savory almond biscuits. It was crunchy, salty, and fatal to any plans of moving quickly. Waddling toward the harbor, we found the Funicolare Centrale at Augusteo. We have a simple rule. If there’s a funicular, we take it. We bought tickets for the last stop, Piazza Fuga, without checking a single review. The train lifted us from the harbor to the Vomero district. We followed signs for a castle simply because walking downhill felt like a bad idea after all that dough. We ended up at Castel Sant'Elmo and the Museo Nazionale di San Martino. Expecting a simple view, we found the whole world instead. Naples sprawled below like a pop-up book, with Mount Vesuvius looming and Capri on the horizon. It was a perfect 360-degree panorama found completely by accident. Sometimes research is overrated. You just need to eat a fried pizza, find a train that goes up, and see where it takes you.
France
What It’s Really Like Working Paris Fashion Week
A behind-the-scenes look at working Paris Fashion Week, from fittings to show day inside the Paris Opera House.
More stories
- Argentina
Buenos Aires: Six Tips From Our Trip
Buenos Aires is easy to love, but it plays by its own rules. Here are six quick tips that saved us time, money, and a little sanity.of grand boulevards and hidden courters, where every transaction felt like a small negotiation, every meal a discovery. This wasn't just a trip; it was an education in urban navigation, a masterclass in embracing the unexpected. Here are six tips that we learned from the trip.
- Argentina
Museo Xul Solar - Buenos Aires Don't Miss Gem
When people think of Argentina, they picture the Obelisk, Plaza de Mayo, and La Boca. We love those iconic spots, but we are always looking for the hidden gems that show a city’s real personality. In Palermo, Museo Xul Solar is one of those places. It is lesser known, absolutely worth the visit, and a great reminder that some of the best parts of Buenos Aires are found beyond the usual landmarks.
- Argentina
Buenos Aires, Cooking and Eating at Pacha Mama
Buenos Aires wasn't about the tango for us. We like music and we have enjoyed seeing the tango in the past, but this trip was about understanding the culture through food. Our travel philosophy leans heavily on the edible. Sometimes you learn about a culture, its history and culture by what it puts on a plate. Especially when you get your hands dirty making it yourself. So, naturally, a cooking class was part of our plan. Not just any class, but one promising a deep dive into the Argentinian pantry, a place where carbohydrate and dairy dreams come true. I was ready for the glorious culinary chaos at Pacha Mama.
- United States
Half Moon's Bay - Moss Beach Distillery - an unexpected lunch find
It wasn't exactly *the plan*. The long way back to SFO from Santa Cruz allows for a quick trip up the coast to Half Moon Bay. If you haven't made this trip it provides some iconic ocean coastline views traveling North on Highway 1 - The Pacific Coast Highway. We made it to Half Moon Bay and decided to point the car vaguely west, past the usual Half Moon Bay bustle, chasing a rumor. A whisper of a place where the Pacific met Prohibition, where the waves crashed with the ghosts of rum runners. Moss Beach, they said. A name that sounded less like a destination and more like a warning, or perhaps a particularly melancholic poem.
- Italy
Napoli: Walking Tour of the Harbor
Napoli, is a city that immediately tells you you’re not in a rural area anymore. It shouts at you; horns, people bustling through, motorcycles nearly missing you on roads that a mixed pedestrian and cars. My arrival felt less like a carefully planned vacation and more like being dropped into an opera mid-act, without a libretto. I’d come for the chaos, the history, and a pizza pilgrimage. What I found was a place that demands your full attention, a vibrant, sometimes abrasive, always captivating urban symphony. Every step was a negotiation, every corner a new discovery. This wasn't Italy's manicured postcard; this was its raw, beating heart, and it was worth the visit. This hour long mile and a half walk gave us a good first flavor of the cities harbor.
- Italy
Limestone Lullabies and Lunch by the Adriatic
It wasn't a choice, really. More like an insistent gravitational pull. One minute, I was navigating a maze of sun-baked streets, the next, the ground simply... ended. Not in a terrifying, cinematic cliffhanger way, but in a breathtaking, postcard-perfect plunge to the turquoise below. This is Polignano a Mare, a place that doesn't merely exist on the coast; it *is* the coast, carved and shaped by centuries of Adriatic whims. My travel philosophy usually involves a healthy dose of skepticism toward anything labeled 'charming.' Too often, it translates to 'overpriced and crowded.' But here? The charm felt earned, etched into every rough-hewn stone, every whitewashed wall clinging precariously to the cliff face. It whispered stories of fishermen, of lovers, of the sea's relentless embrace. And, if I'm being honest, I was already thinking about lunch.
- Spain
Zorita de los Canes: Where History Tastes Like Honey
Imagine this: You’re fifty minutes east of Madrid, the kind of distance that feels like a world away, and suddenly, you’re in Zorita de los Canes. Population: 68. And a castle. This isn't your average 'escape the city' jaunt. This is a deep dive into what happens when history, local ingredients, and two passionate guides (one a Manchester transplant) share their passion for Spain. We went looking for a quiet Spanish village; we found a full-blown culinary and historical expedition. Paul and Juan, our intrepid hosts, promised a journey, not just a meal. They delivered. We walked the very path where stones for that ancient castle were hauled, feeling the weight of centuries underfoot. We picked up wine from a producer who clearly understood the assignment. And then, the vermouth. Yes, I said it. Vermouth. The drink that has historically made me question all my life choices. This, however, was different. This was Vermouth that turns you into someone who says, "I get it now."
- Spain
Madrid: Lesser Known Below the Surface Tour
Madrid hits different. It’s not just the late-night dinners or the sun that feels like a warm embrace even in December. It’s the way the city hums, a low thrum of ancient history and relentless modernity. You walk these streets, and every turn offers a new flavor, a new sound, a new reason to question everything you thought you knew about a capital city. We’d hit the usual destinations; Bar La Campana, Museum Sophia, and The Palacio. Now it was time to look for lesser known gems. This trip was about digging deeper, literally. About finding the Madrid that doesn’t always make it onto the glossy postcards. Because sometimes, the real magic happens when you step off the well-trodden path and let curiosity be your guide. And sometimes, that guide leads you straight into the belly of the city, a place where time stands still and stories echo in the quiet. We luckily found something special, a history lesson and an answer to why moving people in Madrid from one place to another is easier than most big cities.
- Spain
Avila - The Walled City
The 2000 year old walled-city of Ávila was great to see. We had a good lunch in the little town. Clearly being there in December was off season. For us that meant less crowded, some closed shops, and the more pleasing cool weather that we enjoy. We found the Cathedral here to be more beautiful but smaller than in Segovia’s Cathedral.
- Spain
Segovia - A Castle, Cathedral and Aqueduct
The end of our day in the Avila and Segovia which is North of Madrid in Spain provided a great view of the remnants of a Roman Aqueduct . In Segovia, we kept saying. We could stay here for a couple of days. The Castle was amazing and the Cathedral was beautiful as well. This little community had a nice ambience with shops restaurants and cobbled streets we very walkable.
- French Polynesia
Bora Bora: Beauty and the Beach
Spending time at the Bora Bora St. Regis was a spectacular moment to relax and restore.
- Italy
Renaissance Heart of Italy
Florence overwhelms your senses with artistic treasures at every turn. Standing before Michelangelo's David was a profound moment that photos simply cannot capture. The climb up Brunelleschi's Dome rewarded us with breathtaking panoramic views over terracotta rooftops. The Uffizi Gallery houses Renaissance masterpieces that transport you through centuries of human creativity.
- Italy
Venice & Verona Magic
Venice never fails to enchant us with its floating beauty and timeless charm. We've experienced it in every season - from summer's bustling energy to winter's mystical fog. One unforgettable evening, we attended a Mozart concert in an ancient church where the acoustics made every note feel divine. In Verona, we discovered Romeo and Juliet's legacy while sampling world-class Amarone wines in cozy enotecas.
- Italy
Spiritual Heart of Italy
Umbria's hilltop towns offer a spiritual journey through history. Orvieto's cathedral, perched dramatically on volcanic cliffs, houses some of Italy's most beautiful frescoes. The underground tunnels reveal fascinating layers of Etruscan and medieval history. Assisi, birthplace of St. Francis, radiates peaceful energy with Giotto's masterful frescoes telling the saint's story.
- Italy
Eternal City Experiences
Rome reveals new secrets with every visit. Our extended stay in Trastevere gave us an authentic Roman experience - morning espresso at local bars, evening aperitivo in hidden piazzas, and late-night strolls along cobblestone streets. The major attractions never lose their power to amaze, but it's the everyday moments that make Rome truly eternal.
- Italy
Cinque Terre Coastal Paradise
The five coastal villages of Cinque Terre feel like stepping into a postcard. We chose to stay in Vernazza, which transforms from a bustling daytime destination to a serene evening haven. The highlight was an impromptu sunset concert where a local musician played classical piano on a hillside overlooking Riomaggiore as the Mediterranean turned golden.
- Italy
Sicily - Island of food and culture
Sicily offers an incredible blend of cultures and landscapes. We stayed at the magnificent Il San Corrado di Noto, a converted monastery that epitomizes Sicilian baroque architecture. The town of Noto itself is a UNESCO masterpiece of golden stone buildings. In Syracuse, the ancient Greek theater and charming Ortigia island create an unforgettable combination of history and beauty.
- Italy
Dramatic Coast & Ancient Wonders
The Amalfi Coast's dramatic beauty takes your breath away at every curve. Positano's pastel houses cascade down cliffs like a watercolor painting. Ravello's Villa Rufolo gardens offer spectacular views that inspired Wagner's music. Our journey to Pompeii was deeply moving - walking through perfectly preserved streets frozen in time by Vesuvius.
- Italy
Rome, Revisited: The Art of the Lesser-Known Bite
As we landed at FCO, it started, the feeling of la dolce vita (living the sweet life). A familiar, comforting embrace from a city that's seen us before, many times. Rome. Some places, you just keep coming back to. Like a favorite sweater, or that one friend who always has a good story. We've done the Colosseum. We've marveled at the Vatican's grandeur. We've even circled the Circus Maximus, imagining chariots and ancient roars. This time, though, the quest was different. It wasn't about checking off boxes from a guidebook. It was about the quiet corners, the whispered recommendations, and the pursuit of ricotta-filled crusts. A homecoming, yes, but with a fresh lens. A different kind of treasure hunt, trading major landmarks for minor miracles. Because sometimes, the real magic isn't in what everyone sees, but in what you stumble upon when you're not looking.
- Spain
Madrid: A 10 day Whirlwind of Castles, Churros, and Caverns
The smell hit first. Not the expected exhaust fumes of a major city, but something deeper, richer. A warm, yeasty scent mingling with roasted spices, a hint of something sweet, deeply fried. Madrid doesn’t just greet you; it embraces you with its aroma, then shoves a plate of churros and chocolate into your hands. This wasn't just a trip; it was a ten-day dive into the heart of Spain, a family Christmas spent not just unwrapping presents, but unwrapping layers of history, flavor, and unexpected friendships. We came for the classics, sure. The Royal Palace of Madrid, the art that demands quiet contemplation. But we stayed for the surprises. The underground metro stations turned museums, the secret tunnels whispered with tales of escape, and the sheer joy of sharing a plate of patatas bravas with new friends from across the globe. It was fast, it was furious, and occasionally fueled by questionable amounts of espresso. A masterclass in maximizing every moment, even if it meant a slight re-evaluation of personal sleep requirements.
- Spain
Madrid XMAS 2025 Real Madrid v Seville
Goooooooaaaaaaaalllll!!!!!!! - Real Madrid won 2-0. If you are in Madrid, then you have to support the Real Madrid Futbol Team. The family treated me to an early Xmas gift to head to Estadio Santiago Bernabéu.
- Ecuador
Galápagos by Small Ship (7 Days, One Suitcase, Zero Repacking)
Galápagos Islands tour was an opportunity to see wildlife both on land and sea in an environment that continues to be thriving and as protected as possible. Traveling on a boat offered a way to see as much as possible without moving luggage from place to place.
- Ecuador
Ayampe + Cerro Lobo + Guayaquil — Ocean Air, Birthday Pizza, and Prep for Galápagos
Guayaquil and Ayampe provide a different view of Ecuador. The Beach and a big city with a long history. Thanks to our duaghter's querido who helped us with Spanish when our English wasn't good enough, we had a great time.
- Ecuador
Quito: Thin Air and Big Views
Quito, Mindo and Cotapaxi were a great and diverse way to explore Quito. We were lucky to have the family of our daughter's friend to be our companions and guides for our time in Quito.
- Portugal
Porto: Rain, River Crossings, the Rule of 1, and the Mystery Indian Restaurant
Porto, Portugal, the Douro River and the Douro Valley gave us all of the things we enjoy. Good people, good food, good wine (Port), good walks, and great views. Definitely on the list to go back.
- France
Hidden Gems of Paris: Beyond the Crowds
Discover a quieter, more intimate side of Paris through hidden parks, local neighborhoods, and under-the-radar museums. From peaceful Eiffel Tower views to artistic corners of Montmartre, these spots offer a more authentic Parisian experience.
- Portugal
Lisbon: Seven Hills, Sore Calves, and the Sardine-Tin Trams of Lisbon
Discover why Lisbon is called Rome’s twin as we navigate its beautiful but punishing seven hills and squeeze into its famously crowded vintage trams. From temperamental cable cars to festive holiday markets, this is a look at the glorious chaos of Portugal's capital.
- Mexico
Puerto Nuevo Birthday Lobster Fest
We've always been drawn to the Pacific coast, so when Matt's birthday came around, we knew a one-day adventure to Baja was the perfect way to celebrate. Our destination was Puerto Nuevo, a favorite spot that never disappoints, especially on a quiet weekday. The easy drive from San Diego led us to a fantastic lobster and beer lunch. Better yet, the Fast Track SENTRI lane made the trip home just as effortless.
- Netherlands
There is more to Windmills in the Netherlands
French Fries, Stroopwafels, Anne Frank's Museum and so much more were included in this trip to the Netherlands
- Spain
Magnificent Madrid
We chose a December visit to escape the city's unbearable heat, a strategy we happily share with the locals. It's a perfect big-city destination, boasting everything we love: inspiring museums, incredible food, walkable streets, convenient public transit, and a culture that's both fast-paced and fun.