As always, our California sunshine seems to follow us wherever we go, as was the case on our recent trip with Collette Travel. Our Coastal Mediterranean Journey, from March 29 to April 13, covered about 700 miles from Barcelona, Spain, along the Mediterranean Coast and concluded in Florence, Italy.
For three to four weeks prior to our departure, the areas we were scheduled to visit were deluged with rain and flooding. Miraculously, and like normal for our group, blue skies greeted us for most of our spectacular trip.
Our coastal adventure connected the Spanish, French, and Italian rivieras, offering a rich experience of scenery, art, culture, food, and wine. We were well fed, enjoyed delicious local wines and other spirits, and fully embraced this magical journey.
We began in Los Angeles, boarding our chartered bus from Solvang that delivered us on time to check in for our flights to Europe. Traffic is always a concern, so it was a relief when everything went smoothly. We flew American Airlines direct to London with a connection into Barcelona the following afternoon. Coming home, we flew out of Florence after exploring the entire Mediterranean coastline, via London, and returned to Los Angeles, where our Santa Barbara Airbus charter was waiting to bring us back. The process was easy and comfortable.
Of course, as always, our departure included Olsen’s Bakery goods with Champagne and mimosas to start our adventure. There is never a dull moment when traveling with me and Collette. Life is to be explored and enjoyed — and that we do very well!
This was a fabulous trip showcasing Mediterranean villages from Barcelona all the way up to San Gimignano, then inland to Tuscany’s wine region, before returning home from Florence. It was a comprehensive itinerary highlighting unique villages and stunning scenery.
A perfumery in Grasse, France displays the process of perfume making.
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Barcelona is a gem, as are many of Spain’s historical cities filled with UNESCO sites. Known for its exceptional architecture and vibrant culinary scene, the Catalonian capital was explored on foot, including the Gothic Quarter’s labyrinthine streets. We toured the exquisite Palau de La Música, an ornate domed music center with stunning stained-glass windows, and ended that day at the awe-inspiring La Sagrada Familia Basilica.
Work on Gaudi’s visionary Basilica began in 1882 and is scheduled for completion in 2026, the 100th anniversary of the architect’s death. We also saw his other famed works — Casa Batlló, Parque Güell, Palacio Güell, and the Crypt at Sagrada. Gaudi’s distinct style shines through his ornate, detailed works of art. The longer you look at these massive structures, the more imagery, artistry, and storytelling you uncover. Spain is an incredible country that should be on everyone’s bucket list.
Before leaving Barcelona, a group of us taxied to Paradiso for a special experience. Named the “Best Bar in the World” by Condé Nast in 2022, this speakeasy is hidden behind the refrigerator door of an old pastrami shop. Inside, mood lighting and ambience set the stage for beautifully crafted cocktails that were over-the-top in presentation, flavor, and creativity. It was a fun and serendipitous stop, especially since reservations aren’t accepted and lines are long. The drink gods were with us that day!
The statue of David that Michelangelo sculpted between 1501 and 1504 is considered one of the great sculptures ever based on the Biblical Hero David.
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From Barcelona, we headed to Costa Brava, visiting villages including Girona, a medieval town with an atmospheric Old Quarter. We enjoyed an incredible farmhouse lunch and explored the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres, filled with the surrealist’s dreamlike, thought-provoking art. Continuing along Costa Brava, we stayed two nights in Besalú, a medieval village by the sea. Hiking along cliffs and through caves at dusk back to our hotel felt like a pirate adventure in search of treasure. We returned just before nightfall, our phone lights guiding us through the last tunnels — a grand adventure indeed.
Leaving Spain, we crossed into France with a stop at the Abbey of Fontfroide, founded nearly 1,000 years ago. A guided tour, exquisite lunch, and locally produced wines made for a memorable visit. We continued to Marseille, France’s second-largest city, where we explored the Old Port, museums, and even participated in soap-making — a 600-year tradition in Marseille.
From there, we shopped our way through Provence’s boutiques before heading to Nice for two nights. We toured the charming walled medieval village of St. Paul de Vence, then traveled to Grasse, the perfume capital of France. A workshop taught us the history of perfume-making, and we created our own fragrances. Even the gentlemen loved the experience — and we nearly bought out the gift shop afterward.
Next was Monaco, the world’s second-smallest country. We toured on foot and by small train, watched the changing of the guard, and visited the Cathedral of Monaco, resting place of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace. The views of this glamorous principality were breathtaking.
Linda and Dan Johansen visit one the one of the oldest medieval villages in France called Besalu to celebrate his 77th birthday.
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We then ventured to Genoa, Italy, once a maritime powerhouse rivaling Venice. After a walking tour and lunch, we boarded a boat to Portofino, a glamorous jewel of the Italian Riviera. Shopping, dining, and strolling with friends made for a perfect day.
Our next stop was Cinque Terre, with its colorful cliffside villages and terraced vineyards. Traveling by rail, we visited the five fishing villages along the rugged coast. It’s breathtakingly beautiful — but crowded. Many tourists attempt the hikes unprepared, lacking proper clothing, shoes, or water. We laughed recalling a friend’s story of collapsing mid-hike, declaring, “Save yourself!” — a sentiment many weary hikers at the café seemed to share.
We spent our final two nights in Tuscany after a day exploring Florence, the “Cradle of the Renaissance.” Its art, architecture, and history were awe-inspiring. From there, we enjoyed an epicurean adventure, beginning with a truffle hunt. Led by a local expert and her truffle-sniffing dogs, we trekked along rivers, hills, and olive groves before sampling our finds. Our host prepared truffle pasta on her patio overlooking the countryside, paired with local wines — unforgettable.
Our last stop was San Gimignano, a hilltop medieval town with towers rising above vineyards. Known for leather goods, the shopping was superb. Many of us left with new purses, myself included — three for me and one for my beautiful daughter-in-law.
The Collette travel group takes in a tour of the Sagrada Familia Basilica in Barcelona.
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This trip was filled with joy, laughter, and lasting memories. I sincerely love my clients who choose to travel with me. We bond over card games like Left Right Center, Five Crowns, and Golf, along with new games I’ve introduced for our bus rides. Travel Bingo, Travel Trivia, and even a “joke off” kept us entertained and laughing throughout.
Sharing these adventures is an honor. After closing my family’s travel agency, Viking Travel Service, after nearly 40 years, I’ve continued to lead trips with Collette. These journeys have allowed me to donate to local nonprofits in meaningful ways and give back to our community — something for which I’m eternally grateful.
Our trips are legendary, informative, and full of memories, but as Dorothy once said after clicking her red heels, “There is no place like home.”
Upcoming nonprofit-benefit trips include South America, Thailand and Cambodia (February 2026), Iceland with a stopover in NYC (September 2026), and India and Nepal (February 2027).
For more information, email lindyjo2003@yahoo.com to get on the list.