It’s July 1st, and while I am not making my deadline for the June EDIT, I’m sitting here with the cicadas chirping, the leaves blowing, and the sun falling beautifully over the landscaping. It’s given me just enough bandwidth to settle in and write a few notes from everything I gathered over last month.

June started with Lolo’s gorgeous birthday trip to Rosewood Mandarina. I have a full edit, a playlist, and a wardrobe for you below. After that wonderful getaway, life trucked along with work and Father’s Day celebrations, and led us here: a full week in Round Top, splitting time between Lolo’s parents’ farm and our beloved Red Antler.

Our dear friends built these bungalows a few years ago and they are an actual dream come true. About a mile from the center of town, each one has two bedrooms with en suite baths, a fully equipped kitchen with full-size appliances, washer/dryer included, a fireplace, stunning furnishings, and the James Cabana next door, where the bar, dining, and lounging live alongside the perfect pool to beat this Texas heat. If you book early enough you may score the Branca Bungalow which is a treat beyond belief.

We’re here two nights before heading back to the farm for more birthday celebrations, but will BRB for the annual 4th of July parade watching party in the James Cabana. It will be bittersweet this year, with last year’s tragic events in Kerr County still in our hearts every day.

I hope you enjoy this edition as much as I enjoyed penning it. It’s been a wild few months, and there’s no slowing down in sight, but these little blips of stillness let the mind renew, a day at a time.

2. MANDARINA — Rosewood Mandarina, Riviera Nayarit. The month’s headline trip.

If you followed along on my Instastories, you got a sneak peek at magical Mandarina. And I am in love. Every part of this landscape, which is actually a little different from most of Mexico.

The palette here is earthy, not the bright colorful Cabo you’re picturing. Muted tones, light and airy fabrics, everything blending into the jungle around it. You can read all about it here:

And I’m linking everything I packed here:

3. THE CONCIERGE DESK — this month’s departures

This month we shipped some of our best itineraries to date.

It started with an Italian summer on the coast at La Roqqa in Porto Ercole. Then a mother-daughter trip I adored: Le Bristol in Paris, on to Positano and Le Sirenuse for their newly opened beach club, then Capri. Both of those journeys ended the same place, in Rome, and both left me thinking about the same thing.

The rooftop at Orient Express La Minerva. Gigi. Same restaurant group as the Paris spots, and oh, it shows. If you’re ending a trip in Rome this summer, end it up there.

We also had departures for a very fun 50th in Barcelona, winding up in Amsterdam by way of Antwerp, plus a fabulous weekend at the Beverly Hills Hotel, where my clients lunched at the Hotel Bel-Air. (A spot I fell for during our week in California for the core conference.)

And one of my favorites just landed back home: an Italian road trip, a 12-day Tauck cruise along the Seine, and a Paris finale with a full day in Champagne.

Positano and Capri are in the mix of all of our itineraries this summer up until late October, so I put together a few guides: Positano now, Capri later.

4. THE GIFT SHOP

• Last month’s relinks, corrected

The sleep contraption that has single-handedly saved every time zone I’ve ever crossed — how anyone travels without this is genuinely beyond me.

The carry-on tote that does it all, including fold flat when you’ve inevitably over-shopped.

The cabin suitcase I never check — one to two nights of everything, perfectly packed, overhead bin ready.

The travel makeup pouch I’d stake my reputation on. And I have tried. Every. Single. One.

The summer satchel that goes from farmer’s market to wandering the 6th arrondissement without missing a beat.

• My fav travel beauty bits

5. THE SPA — the first Guerlain Spa at sea

One of the most glorious ships to ever sail launched a few weeks ago and it has the world of travel reeling. Billed for non-cruisers, the brand-new Orient Express Corinthian has set sail.

The Orient Express Corinthian is a genuine one-of-one: the world’s largest sailing yacht, three masts, actual wind power, 110 guests looked after by 170 crew. Five restaurants under Yannick Alléno. And tucked inside all that French savoir-faire, the part that made me sit up: the first Guerlain Spa ever to go to sea. Treatment suites, a hammam, two saunas, a thermal suite that comes included.

Sailing season’s just begun. Come find me when you’re ready to go.

6. THE LOBBY LOUNGE — what I’m into right now

Watching

We’ve restarted Ozark, and it’s eating most of our nightly TV. Dark, with a wild twist around every corner. Worth it.

Four Seasons on Netflix for the nights we want easy and breezy. The perfect palate cleanser.

And we’ve got DCC season three queued up. Easy weeknight binge.

Listening

Magical Mandarina Playlist best played from the patio of suite 109 with waves crashing, marg in hand.

Alan Jackson played his final concert in Nashville last weekend, so it only feels right to add COUNTRY SILVER to this month’s note. A stellar little compilation of nostalgic gems and newer beats, made for summer sessions on the patio.

Entering into July welcomes slower summer mornings, late afternoon swims, the not-checking-my-phone-for-a-whole-hour kind of days.

But when you love what you do and do what you love, even from a pool chair in Round Top, I’m already deep in planning mode, because the holidays are closer than they look. Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, spring break: the good stuff books early, and the very good stuff is already moving.

If any of those are even a maybe for you, let’s talk now while there’s still room to dream. Reply to this note or find me the usual way. I’d love to start scheming.

Ciao for now,
Libby

The road is notorious. Hairpin curves on a cliff above the Tyrrhenian Sea, buses inching past each other with approximately two inches to spare, boats bobbing so far below they look like toys. First timers grip the door handle. Everyone stares at their phone trying to figure out if they took a wrong turn.

Here is what I know after doing this for a long time: arrival in Positano is only chaotic if no one has thought it through for you. My clients step off a nonstop flight in Rome and into a private transfer that has been waiting since before the wheels touched down. The boat with a skipper is already booked. The porters are expecting you at the dock. By the time you see those pastel houses tumbling down to the water for the first time, the only thing you have to do is look at it.

That first view, by the way, is worth everything. The majolica dome catching the afternoon light. The bougainvillea spilling over every wall. The sea going a shade of blue that has no name in English. You understand immediately why people come here and never quite leave.

This is not a town you see so much as absorb. The streets are stairs. The pace is lunch. The agenda, if you arrived with one, dissolves somewhere around the second round and the second glass of Italian rosé.

I have been putting together a proper guide to Positano: where to stay at the very top of the market, where to eat and what to order, what to shop and what to skip. Plus the full guide, formatted and ready to open on your phone or print before you go.

All of it is below for paid subscribers.

Read more

I’m in love with Left of Friday swim - the Weekender and Reef are my favorite.

Scarfs as sarongs - part one and two.

A brand I found on Wolf and Badger that rivals Frank and Eileen and now half off! I bought everything!

The perfectly fitted on top, billowy on the bottom dress.

A set that belongs in Greece but works for MX, too - top // pants.

I dressed this set up with jewels and then bought in every color - top // pants.

This dress and this lightweight sweater around your shoulders all summer long.

I bought two pairs of these jelly sandals just in case.

xox

o

No one is wondering where you're from, what you do, or why you chose that particular style of Corazón hat. All anyone is there to do is be with their loved ones, watch the sunset, and rest very well.

That’s Mandarina.

This is not the place where you’ll make vacation friends. I would liken it to the equivalent of Forte dei Marmi rather than Tuscany, or Puglia rather than the Amalfi Coast. When you're at Mandarina, you feel like you're in Mexico, not a version of it built for Americans. The sense of place isn't just there; it's in every encounter.

There’s something that rewires your brain when you don’t see people in front of you for a significant period of time. Just the ocean, the crashing waves, the grounding sand beneath your feet. While all beaches in Mexico are public, Mandarina’s is within the gates, so there’s no public on the beach. Vogue noticed. I think that’s what I find so mesmerizing: the privacy.

I first came here in March of 2021. It was my first flight after the pandemic. A window seat on Southwest, arriving in Puerto Vallarta less than two hours after takeoff, sailing through security, hopping into the branded Mandarina car. Back then, it was just a few residences and the One&Only. I was mesmerized by the jungle, the ocean, the sandy beaches, and the general climate of the Riviera Nayarit. I wasn’t sure if it was truly magic or if I was just that excited to be on a plane and in Mexico again.

I had the opportunity to go back earlier this month, and it coincided beautifully with Lolo’s birthday. We stayed at the newly opened Rosewood Mandarina, and I was reminded that I was not in awe just because I had been grounded for a year and a half.

It is truly magical.

We arrived in Puerto Vallarta, sailed through customs, and were in our beachfront suite by 1 p.m. And that suite — truly one of the most special rooms I’ve ever been in. Ample space for a living room, dining room, bar, a powder baths, a full-size closet, a beautiful primary suite overlooking the Pacific, with a plunge pool and patio. Every room at Rosewood Mandarina has the same size pool (larger than most plunge pools), and they offer four different types of views. We were oceanfront — we could walk off our patio and be on the beach. Every morning, breakfast with our toes in the sand, delivered to our suite.

I don’t know anywhere else in Mexico where you’ll find what Rosewood Mandarina offers, thanks in part to their GM from Spain and their chef. There’s a beautiful Spanish influence — Buena Onda serves perfectly cooked paella, Toppu sits up on the hill with some of the most delicious sashimi and rolls we’ve ever had (and gorgeous views), and La Cocina Mandarina, their traditional Mexican restaurant, leaves nothing to be desired.

And when the sun starts to drop, you go up. Barra Peñasco sits at the top of the resort with completely unobstructed views — the kind of sunset that makes the table go quiet for a second. The drinks are excellent, the staff even better.

If Mandarina is calling, you know where to find me. I can walk you through suites, views, and the details that don’t make it into the magazines libby.taft@smartflyer.com.

A few things worth knowing right now: Rosewood is offering a third night free with daily breakfast, and complimentary airport transfers on stays of four nights or more through September. I can layer my own Rosewood perks on top — upgrades, credits, the works. Summer is the move.

Greetings from mid-May 2026. How we got here, I’m truly not sure — but here we are.

My mantra this month is #blessedtobebusy. Not one full week at home, and honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

This is the part of the job I live for — the season where everything I’ve been planning for months actually happens. A snapshot of what a day looks like right now:

• Morning check-ins to confirm clients have landed safely across the pond

• Answering what feels like 500 texts and emails a day — from “what should I pack for the Amalfi Coast” to “can we add a night in Positano” to “is the restaurant confirmed” — yes, yes it is, I checked twice

• Itinerary reviews and final refinements, because the details are everything

• New inquiry calls as summer closes in and everyone is ready to go somewhere wonderful

• Real-time support for travelers currently on the ground — my favorite part of all of it

  

In between all of that: Cabo to start the month — have you ever seen a more gorgeous sky — client dinners, our beloved nephew’s graduation, Mother’s Day, and a few stolen pool and patio moments I held onto for dear life. We’ll close out May at Rosewood Mandarina celebrating Lolo’s birthday.

This is the wave I’ve been paddling toward all year. It’s cresting, it’s a little chaotic, and it will absolutely crash eventually.

But I'm enjoying every single second of the ride. And to you — merci beaucoup, grazie mille, muchas gracias — for being here!

xx, Libby

On my desk: May 2026

Girls' trips, grand tours, and a train through Scotland — what's been on my desk this May

• Girls’ trip to Barcelona and Rome

• Couples’ trip to Paris, Venice, Florence, and Rome - talk about love languages

• Couples’ wine trip through France and Italy with traveling sommelier

• Couples’ trip starting in Italy, driving the coast of the South of France, ending in Bordeaux — with a river cruise and four nights in Paris on the back end

• Couples’ trip from London to Edinburgh aboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman, then splitting ways to Paris for Roland Garros, finishing in Amsterdam

Have a trip on your list? libby.taft@smartflyer.com

Notable Openings

Orient Express Venezia

You already know I have feelings about this one.

Orient Express Venezia opened March 30th inside the Palazzo Donà Giovannelli — a 15th-century aristocratic residence in Venice’s Cannaregio district, which means it’s tucked away from the tourist crush in one of the city’s quieter quarters. The palazzo sits where two canals meet along the Rio di Noale and has been entirely reimagined by architect Aline Asmar d’Amman — for the first time in nearly six centuries.

The dining lineup alone is worth noting: Michelin three-star chef Heinz Beck helms the fine dining restaurant, the all-day La Casati handles more relaxed meals, and the Wagon Bar serves signature cocktails and Venetian cicchetti in a setting inspired by the classic Orient Express lounge cars.

Rates start from $1,200 and it’s part of Accor Live Limitless. And yes — guests arriving on La Dolce Vita Orient Express train can disembark at Venice Santa Lucia and reach the hotel by foot or by boat. Which is exactly as cinematic as it sounds.

More about my six days with Orient Express below + my how-to guide here!

From the Concierge Desk

Paris, Paris, Paris. Everyone is going and I don’t blame them.

My clients arriving in early June are in for something special — they’ll board a Tauck River Cruise from Bordeaux to Paris, then close the trip with four days of exploring the city. No agenda, technically. But when you book with me, your “no agenda” days are meticulously positioned — the right streets, the best bistros, the perfect boutique around the corner you didn’t know you needed.

Here’s the plan:

From the Kitchen at Hotel Libby

Cooking is my ultimate de-stresser. Nothing winds me down after a long day of calls, texts, and itinerary double (triple) checking quite like pouring a glass of wine and making something to share with Lolo.

Considering we’re home less than half of May, I keep grocery runs minimal and lean on our wonderful farmers market and the fish markets nearby. My favorite is Rose’s Seafood — family-run for generations, with the freshest red snapper, gulf shrimp, and sauces galore.

My go-to easy, breezy, healthy, happy summer dinner:

Pan-Seared Red Snapper

8 oz snapper fillets, skin off EVOO 2 tbsp Red Fish Magic seasoning

Coat both sides of the snapper with Red Fish Magic. Heat a large non-stick pan to medium, add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook snapper four minutes per side, or until white and flaky. Let rest a few minutes before serving.

Spicy Slaw

½ head green cabbage, shredded ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced ½ green jalapeño, sliced ¼ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt ¼ cup white wine vinegar 1 lime, juiced

Whisk together the sauce ingredients, toss with shredded cabbage, and let sit in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.

Lemony Couscous

1 clove garlic, grated 1 tbsp butter 1 lemon, zested and juiced Couscous + water as directed on package

Add butter to a small pot over medium heat. Add garlic and lemon, cook for a minute until fragrant. Add water and bring to a boil, then add couscous as directed. Fluff and serve.

From the Gift Shop

Travel essentials I cannot live without + a few summertime favorites

The sleep contraption that has single-handedly saved every time zone I’ve ever crossed — how anyone travels without this is genuinely beyond me.

The carry-on tote that does it all, including fold flat when you’ve inevitably over-shopped.

The cabin suitcase I never check — one to two nights of everything, perfectly packed, overhead bin ready.

The travel makeup pouch I’d stake my reputation on. And I have tried. Every. Single. One.

The summer satchel that goes from farmer’s market to wandering the 6th arrondissement without missing a beat.

Now if you'll excuse me, I have 47 unread texts and a glass of wine with my name on it. Until next month — and trust me, June has a lot to say

xx, Libby

This guide covers four days based in Saint-Germain — a day in Champagne, Monet’s water lilies, the Marais on your last morning, a picnic on the Seine. The kind of trip you’ll still be talking about in six months.

Download below. Bon voyage.

Paris — Hotel Libby — The Concierge Desk

4.66MB ∙ PDF file

Download

Download

The first time someone asks me about the Orient Express, I always pause before answering. Not because I don’t know what to say — but because where do you even start.

I did this FAM. I lived it. And I’m still not fully over it.

Here’s everything you need to know.

First — which Orient Express are we talking about?

This is where people get confused, so let’s clear it up fast.

The Orient Express brand now has three distinct experiences in Italy:

• Orient Express La Minerva — their first hotel, in Rome

• La Dolce Vita Orient Express — the train

• Orient Express Venezia — their brand new hotel in Venice, open as of March 2026

They’re all connected. They’re all extraordinary. And they can absolutely be combined into one trip — which is exactly what I’d recommend.

The Train: La Dolce Vita Orient Express

La Dolce Vita is a love letter to Italy — a luxury train that captures the timeless allure of Italian glamour and design as it journeys through the country’s most enchanting landscapes. The aesthetic pays homage to 1960s Italian design. Think: velvet, warm wood, candlelight, Campari at the bar car. It is deeply, unapologetically Italian. Tourist Italy

The train has 31 cabins total — 12 deluxe cabins, 18 suites, and the signature La Dolce Vita Suite. Your experience starts before you even board: guests begin with a private transfer to the La Dolce Vita lounge at Rome Ostiense station — a refined space designed to ease you into the experience before you step aboard. Orient ExpressEuronews

The routes — and there are many — range from a single day to five nights. A few worth knowing:

• Rome to Venice — a one-day Michelin-starred culinary journey, new for 2026 accor

• The Grand Tour — a five-day roundtrip from Rome hitting Venice, Matera, Taormina, and Palermo accor

• Rome to Istanbul — five days, four nights, for the truly adventurous accor

• The Truffle Route — Rome to Monferrato, for the food obsessed Orient Express

• Venice & Portofino — three days through Northern Italy’s most glamorous stops Orient Express

All food onboard is overseen by Michelin three-star chef Heinz Beck, who runs Rome’s only three-star restaurant. Every meal is an event — refined breakfasts, exceptional dinners, tables set with vintage silverware and fine wines in crystal glasses. Orient Express

My honest take: The Rome to Venice route is the one I’d put most of my clients on as an introduction. It’s one day — manageable, not intimidating — and it delivers the full experience. If they’re hooked (they will be), you build from there.

The Hotels

Orient Express La Minerva — Rome

The brand’s first hotel. A beautiful Roman palazzo in the heart of the city. This is your logical starting point before boarding the train — and the continuity of the brand throughout your trip is something clients feel and appreciate.

Orient Express Venezia — Venice

The brand’s second hotel opened March 30, 2026, inside the Palazzo Donà Giovannelli — a 15th-century aristocratic residence in Venice’s quieter Cannaregio district. The design preserves original frescoes, carved surfaces, and historic layouts while introducing contemporary materials — traditional Venetian “lost colours” reintroduced through textiles and finishes throughout. Orient ExpressTao Hua Yuan

Guests arriving on La Dolce Vita can disembark at Venice Santa Lucia and reach the hotel by foot or by boat. Which is the kind of detail that makes a trip feel like it was written for a film. orient-express

Rates start from $1,200/night. Part of Accor Live Limitless.

How I’d Build the Trip

For most clients, I’d structure it like this:

2-3 nights at Orient Express La Minerva in Rome (settle in, eat well, see the city) Board La Dolce Vita in Rome (choose your route based on time and appetite) Arrive in Venice and check into Orient Express Venezia 2-3 nights in Venice to close the trip

It’s a complete story. Rome to Venice, the long way — which happens to be the only way worth doing.

What to Know Before You Book

• Book early. Cabins sell quickly, especially suites and signature departures.

• Spring and fall are the ideal seasons — pleasant weather, stunning scenery, fewer crowds.

• Build in extra time at each stop — the off-train excursions are curated and worth it. Orient Express

• This is a fully bookable experience through Taft Travel— and one I’ve done personally, which means I can tell you exactly what to expect, what to pack, and which cabin is worth the upgrade.

Ready to talk about it?

Start here

1 ½ oz blanco tequila

1 oz orange liquor

1 oz lemon juice

¾ oz grapefruit shrub - OR - Fever Tree Grapefruit soda

*if using grapefruit soda add in as a topper - do not add to the shaker*

Mix all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake, shake, shake, strain and serve over ice.

Grapefruit shrub

1 cup grapefruit

1 cup Demerara sugar

Combine in Ziplock for 8 to 12 hours, strain

Add ¼ cup red wine vinegar

Keeps for months at room temp or fridge

Here’s what I discovered on our journey:

Rome

As a very spiritual person, I was ecstatic to arrive in the Eternal City, a city I have longed to experience. My few hours on the ground there were definitely not enough. Upon arrival at Orient Express Minerva — the first property in the brand — I was greeted by efficient bellmen in one of Rome’s most charming squares, with a cathedral to my left, the Pantheon just opposite, and a newsstand nearby. After a quick spa treatment (my go-to if arriving before noon), I ventured down to the hotel’s pop-up from Capri, Paolin, in the gorgeous dining room for lunch with my colleagues and our hosts from Orient Express and Access Italy. We dined on lemon pasta and branzino — the perfect start to day one.

Onward to our private Vatican Experience — through decades of relationships, Access Italy offers this incredible experience with the Guardian of the Liturgical Items and the Conclave. This gentleman’s office is behind the Sistine Chapel, and he is also responsible for organizing the conclave and traditional holiday services in the Vatican, including Easter and Christmas.

Seeing the Vatican through his eyes and doors was one of the most memorable experiences I will ever have. It was incredible to see the walls so few have been within. Afterward, we walked around the city for a bit and headed off to our next adventure — a private wine tasting at the famed Rome restaurant Pierluigi, followed by a glorious dinner in the dining room full of locals enjoying a fun weeknight dinner in Rome.

After a great first night’s sleep across the pond at the Orient Express Minerva, it was time to get up and get dressed for glamorous train travel to Venice.

💡 Travel note: the rooftop bar/restaurant Gigi’s is from the Paris Gigi’s brand and exudes the same exclusivity, scene, and delicious F&B — all while overlooking the Eternal City’s sunset from the terrace.

La Dolce Vita

When I was chosen for this FAM experience, I was giddy. The thought of boarding a train as a mode of transport from one pristine Italian destination to another — a dream I had only ever dared to dream.

"That's the funny thing about this business — the dreams we once only dared to dream become reality, which in turn allows us to bring those same dreams to life for our clients. I get just as excited to relive these magical moments through their travels as I did living them myself."

We arrived at the La Dolce Vita lounge at the Rome train station, where our crew was decked out in the finest Italian wardrobe you have ever seen. The lounge might as well have been a five-star hotel unto itself — beautiful furnishings and decor, a lively and talented band, and full bar service with snacks.

We stayed for about an hour, which is truly part of the experience, and then it was time to board — equally full of fanfare. The crew stood outside, greeting guests as we were escorted to our car and suite. My boarding pass read E2. My butler got me settled into my suite — champagne and goodies included — and off we went. Those first few moments were giddily exciting and felt as glamorous as I’d imagined.

“Getting on a train, traveling through Italy, enjoying multi-course meals with wine pairings while the countryside rolls by — in a suite so beautifully designed you feel like you’re stepping back in time.”

The Cabin

From E2’s perspective, I was elated to have a double-size bed with comfy, cozy linens, a duvet, and pillows, plus a nightstand and a desk with two swiveling chairs — very smartly arranged, with storage for your shoes underneath. The two-seater couch across from the desk was the perfect spot for arrivals and departures, with storage underneath as well.

The full wall behind included a closet, a mini bar with a coffee machine, and the bathroom door — all mirrored and making great use of the space. Inside the small but well-appointed bathroom was a full-size shower, toilet, and sink, with gorgeous amenities, including a Dyson hair dryer. Very important for girls on the go.

Overall, the cabin was perfect for one, or a very cozy couple. There have been mixed reviews on sleep — I, for one, took a quick nap after our excursion and had a glorious 20 minutes rocked to sleep by the moving train. When we went to bed after our night in the bar car, the train was stopped, which made it a little harder to settle. The copious amounts of champagne did help. When we woke up to the train rolling again, it was a seamless sleep straight through to Venice.

The Journey

Once on board, we received our lunch seating assignments and walked through the bar car to the dining room, where we were served a gorgeous three-course meal — including one of the most delicious lasagna bolognese dishes I’ve ever had — accompanied by wines with each course.

The actual distance by high-speed train from Rome to Venice is four hours, so Orient Express does a bit of a detour to make the journey worthwhile. We stopped about an hour outside of Siena and boarded a luxury transfer into one of Tuscany’s most beautiful towns.

Orient Express arranges the excursion for each passenger — ours included a private tour of a noble house overlooking the Piazza del Campo, home to the Palio di Siena, the ancient horse race run each year on July 2nd and August 16th, a tradition dating back to the 13th century. The home was extraordinary — and had just received a visit from Madonna herself, seated in the prettiest pink chair just days before our arrival.

Back on board, it was time for a quick refresh and dinner — another beautifully designed multi-course meal with wine pairings.

Then came the entertainment portion of the evening in the legendary bar car — a full-scale Broadway-style sing-along with live musicians and full drink service leading the fun. The crowd was hyped, dancing through the swishes and sways of the train.

“The only murder was on the dance floor.” 🚂

A perfect end to a magical day, start to finish.

Next Stop: Venezia

I woke up around 8am and opened my curtains to the Italian countryside whizzing by. I ordered a cappuccino while getting ready to disembark, my butler arriving at the cabin a few minutes before 10am to retrieve my bags. I popped into the dining car for one last bite before departure.

We pulled into Venezia Santa Lucia — Venice’s central station, sitting right on the Grand Canal — and were handed off to our water taxis for the arrival at the not-yet-opened Orient Express Venezia. A decade in the making. A property that deserves its own post, coming soon.

The Verdict

The Orient Express La Dolce Vita is not just a way to get from Rome to Venice. It’s the journey itself — a step back in time, through two of the world’s most sacred cities, with white glove service and not a single detail left unconsidered.

Orient Express offers dozens of itineraries throughout Italy, including the Grand Tour — a round-trip from Rome with stops in Venice, Matera, Taormina, and Palermo over five days and four nights. There is genuinely something for everyone.

If you’ve ever wanted to mix up the way you travel — to slow down, be draped in the finest Italian hospitality, and arrive somewhere feeling like the trip itself was the destination — this is it.

Until our next adventure,

xx Libby

With Planuary and a Focused February in the rearview with March Madness in full swing, consider this your official catch-up! 2026 is off to a stellar start and I’m excited to share a few tidbits with you!

Los Angeles + Santa Monica:

My agency, SmartFlyer, had quite the year in 2025, reaching a B, as in BILLION, in revenue with under 300 advisors. We’re all independent contractors with our own LLCs, free to run our travel agencies within the SmartFlyer brand as we see fit. The year-over-year growth is nothing short of aspirational, and I dream of joining the ranks of our top advisors one day. (Our top 18 are responsible for over $250 million in revenue—I’m no math whiz, but damn, that’s an impressive average!) For now, I’ll continue to revel in my wins, big and small, as I learn and grow in this unbelievably fun industry.

Every year, SmartFlyer hosts our CORE conference, which means a few days of back-to-back meetings with some of the most incredible hotel partners in the world — and this year, it was set across three iconic LA properties.

My first stop was the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel, which holds a very special place in my heart. It’s where Lauren and I got married, so arriving at the Pink Palace never gets old! This was my only solo night, so I opted for a jaunt downstairs to The Polo Lounge for dinner in the bar. A dream forever and always.

From there, we moved to the home of the famous swans, Hotel Bel-Air, which sits on 12 acres in Bel Air, just nine miles away from BHH, but feels like an entirely different world. Lush, serene, tucked away. Both hotels are part of the Dorchester Collection, and experiencing them back-to-back was a reminder of what true luxury hospitality looks like.

We wrapped at the Regent Santa Monica, meeting with general managers, directors of sales, and global heads of marketing — the people who run these properties at the highest level. And every year, someone asks me if going to "these things" — our annual conference, the lunches, the dinners, the discovery trips — actually makes a difference. My answer is always a resounding yes.

We invest our time and money into being face-to-face with our partners, who travel from all corners of the world to talk travel — what's new, what's not, and how we can work together to make sure our clients have the best possible experience. These aren't transactions. They're relationships, built over years, and they're the reason I can pick up the phone and make things happen.

Our COO recently said something that has stuck with me: “Luxury is personal.” It’s not always about thread count or white glove service — sometimes luxury is a private ocean view, or coffee delivered to your door at a designated time in a different variety every single morning, or the most spectacular room service display you’ve ever seen. Luxury looks different for every single person. It’s my job to know what it looks like for you — and with the help of our partners, I can make certain that it does.

Mexico: Rosewood Mayakoba & Belmond Maroma

Okay, I need to talk about the nachos.

My clients had warned me — the nachos at Rosewood Mayakoba were life-changing, world-class. They were right. I’ll let the photo speak for itself.

But beyond the nachos, Rosewood Mayakoba is a dreamy property set within a stunning mangrove ecosystem that envelops you with nature in an immersive way rather than as decoration. The rooms are spacious and private, there are multiple dining options, and you can walk, run, or bike throughout the property. It’s ideal for families, longer stays, or anyone who wants a resort experience that feels expansive.

Maroma is a different feeling entirely. Hacienda-style, intimate, and deeply romantic. The butler service was extraordinary. Every morning, coffee was delivered outside the door at a preset time, and it was a different type of coffee every single day. That level of thoughtfulness is what separates good service from truly impeccable service.

Both properties are exceptional. But if you’re planning a honeymoon or a romantic escape, Maroma is your answer. Bringing the kids or staying for a week-plus? Rosewood Mayakoba will keep everyone very happy.

In the Kitchen at Hotel Libby

In between all of this traveling, I’ve been cooking — and I’m starting to share recipes in a dedicated section I’m calling The Kitchen at Hotel Libby. This year, I’ve been trying to cook more gluten and dairy-free dishes that actually taste like something you’d want to eat.

First up: my Valentine’s Day menu. Peruvian roasted chicken, crispy coconut rice, and a jicama salad with a lime vinaigrette — the whole menu was inspired by one of our most memorable meals, and our absolute favorite properties, Palm Heights, and it turned out beautifully!

What’s Coming Next

My first FAM of the year and it’s a BIG one hosted by Orient Express. First stop: Rome — the Eternal City, and checking into the brand new Orient Express Minerva for two nights— then boarding the Orient Express La Dolce Vita, with a stop in Siena, before ending in Venice for three nights at the Orient Express Venezia, where we will be the first guests in residence. An honor I’ve had once before at the GLORIOUS Rosewood Chancery in London, and as a self-proclaimed hotel nerd, it’s a real treat to see a property come to life before the rest of the well-heeled world.

Lots of questions about Orient Express and their new hotel offerings, so here’s a mini-history of the brand + getting us up to date:

Orient Express: A Brand Reborn

Born in 1883, the Orient Express became the ultimate symbol of European luxury rail travel. James Sherwood revived the romance in the 1970s, eventually rebranding his hotel and train empire as Belmond — snapped up by LVMH for $2.6 billion in 2018. In a parallel move, Accor quietly acquired 50% of the Orient Express name from French rail giant SNCF in 2017, and is now relaunching it as a full luxury lifestyle brand — hotels in Rome and Venice, a new Italian train route, and a 220m sailing yacht, all by 2026.

I’ll be sharing packing tips and essentials before I leave — what actually makes it into the bag and how to stay sane across 2.5 weeks and multiple stops.

Thank you for being here!

More soon — Libby 🌿

(4) skin on chicken legs

1/2 cup of olive oil

(2) onions

(6) celery stalks

(4 ) carrots

12 cups of water

(1) cup herbs - parsley, dill, rosemary

salt and pepper

lemon

Add olive oil to a big stock pot, heat on medium, and add chicken, skin side down, well seasoned with salt and pepper. Flip about five minutes.

When the skin is slightly browned, add:

• a whole onion, quartered

• four cloves of garlic, smashed

• two carrots, roughly chopped

• three celery stalks, roughly chopped

Add the water and bring to a boil. Start skimming the fat off of the top with a spoon and discard. Return to a boil, add herbs, and lower to a simmer. Cover and cook for 45 minutes.

After 45 minutes, remove the breasts from the pot and set aside. When they’ve cooled, shred the meat and set aside. Add the bones from the chicken breasts back into the chicken pot stock pot and simmer on the lowest setting for about two hours.

Strain the broth and discard the remaining chicken and vegetables.

Add ¼ cup olive oil to same pot, add:

• (1) onion, diced

• (2) carrots, diced

• (3) celery stalks, diced

Salt and pepper to taste, add in chicken stock and simmer for 10 minutes. Add in shredded chicken to warm and serve with a sliced lemon.

Lolo and I just returned from a magical Rivera Maya moment staying — three nights at the newly renovated Belmond Maroma and a Mexico staple, Rosewood Mayakoba. Both properties are stunning and perfect in their own way. More detailed notes to come!

Today’s plan is to start our DNI (date night in) this afternoon with Palm Heights in mind — one of our favorite beach properties where the food and beverage truly shines! We visited in November of 2024 and are still dreaming of our last meal!

Tillie's is their all-day restaurant, and you could eat two meals a day there and never tire of it. Our flight home was late in the afternoon, so a late lunch was in order! I had the Coal Rotisserie Chicken with aji verde and local greens—perhaps the most perfect dish—alongside a limey jicama salad, toasty pita, and salty butter.

Tonight we're recreating our delicious dinner with Peruvian Roasted Chicken with Spicy Cilantro Sauce, Toasted Coconut Rice and a green salad with Jicama and a lime vinegarette — pairing our feast with an epic love story: Out of Africa.

I hope your Valentine's Day is spent doing what you LOVE—I promise to report back on our grand recreation of delights!

xx,

Libby

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 red onion, diced

• 4 large zucchini, sliced

• 2 to 3 cups bone broth

• Salt and red pepper flakes, to taste

• Fresh lemon juice, for serving

Instructions:

Heat a soup pot over medium heat and add the olive oil. Add the diced onion and season with salt and red pepper flakes to taste. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.

Add the sliced zucchini and cook until slightly browned on the edges, about 10 minutes.

Pour in the bone broth—just enough to cover the zucchini—and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until the zucchini is tender.

Carefully transfer all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth and creamy. Serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

½ cup good olive oil - I like Baroncini or Graza Drizzle

1 tsp Dijon mustard

salt and pepper to taste - I do about 1 tsp of each

Combine all ingredients into a glass jar with a lid and shake until combined. Keep in the fridge for five days.

For 14 years, Lolo and I have gleefully packed up the car, dogs in tow, and set off for a week or two at our favorite place on earth, the Blakely River House, just 10 miles downriver from Camp Mystic, which has been in her family for almost 100 years. Lolo doesn't know life without carefree summers and family celebrations in what feels like the most magical corner of the river, where the sun shines through the big cypress trees lining the banks, the sound of the rapids flowing down from the Ford adding to the calm, crisp Guadalupe River, and more cherished moments with loved ones than we can count.

But this is about now and how the hill country will never quite be the same. The unimaginable loss of lives while living their best life - at camp, on vacation, at their favorite spot on the river - is still inconceivable. Yet, amidst this tragedy, the resilience of our community shines through, inspiring us all.

On each trip, the evening before we left, Lolo and I would sit by the banks of the river around sunset in awe of the unchanged perfection of the breeze, sounds, and peace. Now, the forever unchanged is forever changed.

When we return to this sacred place, we will honor the lives lost and feel even more grateful for each day the Lord has made — and we will be ever so glad in it.

How to help Kerr County

It'll never cease to amaze me how people show up for those in need. From the immediately dispatched HEB Disaster Relief and Mattress Mack trucks to small businesses giving a percentage of sales or creating a new piece dedicated to relief efforts to chefs loading up equipment, food, water, and their teams to feed victims, volunters and anyone in need of a comforting and sustaining meal for the work that needs to be done.

Where to send donations

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Kerrville has been on the ground since the tragedy and has since partnered with South Texas Bereavement Center to further support families affected. Rector Bert Baetz and his wife Sarah are college friends of Lolo and longtime hill country residents who are deeply rooted in the needs of their community.

DONATE - St. Peter’s Episcopal Church

Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country —a 501(c)(3) public charity based in Kerrville—will directly distribute funds to vetted local organizations providing rescue, relief, recovery services and flood assistance. The Fund will support impacted communities including Boerne, Hunt, Ingram, Kerrville, Center Point and Comfort.

DONATE - Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country

Avance Collective - AVANCE Collective is public charity founded by Geoffrey Ravoire (Huffman Travel), my friend, Lindsey Gift-Silver (Oetker Collection), and Chris Reed (The Ranch), with the goal of uniting travel industry professionals to fund human initiatives that support education, inclusivity, and community.

All donations received in the month of July will be dedicated to support flood relief efforts in Kerrvile, in partnership with Convoy of Hope and the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund. Thank you to our generous Avancer, Mike Arnold and Tynan Travel, who will be MATCHING subsequent donations to the effort.

DONATE - Avance Collective

Other ways to support

Lindsey Leigh Jewelry - Until July 31, 2025, 20% of proceeds from The Hill Country Collection will go towards a trusted Hill Country Flood Relief organization to support those affected at Camp Mystic and the surrounding areas

PURCHASE - LLJ Hill Country Collection

Zadok Jewelers - As a family-owned jeweler with deep Texas roots, Zadok stands firmly with our neighbors when they need us most. That’s why we custom designed the Heart in the Hill Country Bracelet to support the community affected by the devastating flood in Central Texas. 100% of proceeds to benefit the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund, and Zadok Jewelers will match all proceeds up to $10,000 with a donation

PURCHASE - Heart in the Hill Country Bracelet

James Avery - Heart to Heart, for Texas - Through Aug. 4, we’re donating 100% of the full-value proceeds from the “Deep in the Heart of Texas” Charm to help those impacted by the floods.

PURCHASE - Deep in the Heart of Texas Charm

Verde Chicken Enchiladas

Sometimes the most powerful thing we can offer isn't what we say, but what we serve—these enchiladas are my way of saying what my heart can't quite put into words. I’ve made these layered verde chicken enchiladas for countless family gatherings and to deliver to friends when they need a break from thinking about dinner or just as a token of my love - my recipe is linked below:

Hotel Libby

Verde Chicken Enchiladas

9x13 casserole dish…

Read more

a year ago · Libby Cagle Taft

Thank you for joining my love letter to Kerr County and wishing you a joyful weekend ahead — xx, Libby

9x13 casserole dish

2 lbs white meat chicken, shredded

18 HEB Mixta corn & Flour tortillas

1 white onion, diced

1 Siete Taco seasoning

16 oz Monterrey Jack cheese, shredded

2 16 oz Salsa Verde

2 15.3 oz Roasted Poblano Salsa Cremosa - Herdez

On stovetop over low heat, place tortilla on top of burner / fire for about 30 seconds per side until slightly charred, turning with tongs. Continue until all tortillas are charred - or place tortillas in a single layer on a sheet tray, spray with olive oil spray and broil for a few minutes a side - just be sure to watch closely not to burn.

Heat olive oil in pan, add onion and cook for 3-4 minutes. Add shredded chicken and taco seasoning. Combine all ingredients and remove from heat.

Combine the four jars of sauce in a large bowl.

Grease a 9x13 baking dish, pour enough of the combined sauce mixture to barely coat the bottom. Place six tortillas in the bottom of the baking dish so they’re barely overlapping. Next add a layer of the chicken mixture followed by a cup of cheese and enough Herdez to cover all. Repeat this one more time. Top the last layer with the remaining tortillas, the rest of the sauce and cheese.

Cover with foil and bake at 400 for 30 minutes until enchiladas are warmed through and cheese is melted. To make the top toasty, broil for 5 minutes.

Let set for 10 minutes before serving. Cut into squares and serve with shredded lettuce, pico de gallo and sour cream.

(2) large zucchini, sliced on mandolin

⅛ red onion, thinly sliced

micro greens

hard Italian cheese

dill / mint / herbs

the vinaigrette

place sliced zucchini on paper towels in one later and sprinkle with salt - allow to sit for 30 minutes to release moisture - pat with paper towels to remove excess water. toss zucchini in vinaigrette and air fry or bake zucchini in one layer for 10 to 15 minutes until just browned. add onion to remming vinaigrette to soften. layer zucchini on plate in circular pattern and drizzle with onion, tiny blocks of cheese, greens and herbs. add finishing salt and LOTS of freshly ground pepper.

Here’s a link to our pre-opening note, just in case you missed it!

Now, let’s check-in!

The Lobby Lounge

Our Lobby Lounge guest today is a VIP whom I'm delighted to introduce. My spouse of 10 years, friend of 20, favorite human and LOML—Lauren Taft, affectionately known as Lolo.

Hi Lolo! Thank you for being my inaugural guest in the Lobby Lounge, where we'll share meaningful conversations over our favorite cocktails. Speaking of which—what are you drinking today?

I had a roadie beer on my way and now I'll do a Tanqueray Negroni!

Now that our drinks are here, let's dive in! I realize I may be biased, but you're one of the most interesting, talented, and brilliant people I've ever met. You've lived such a rich, adventurous life—from flying planes and playing polo in college to sailing as a child, hunting, and of course, all our travels together. Can you share with our guests some of these experiences and how your sense of adventure continues to shape your life today?

Well that means a lot! I owe it to the level of freedom my parents gave my older brother and me as kids. They had great belief in our abilities, which, in turn, gave us a level of confidence that we have taken out into the world, day after day, year after year. Whether they had me sailing a Sunfish out on Galveston Bay solo at 9, or sitting by myself under a Mesquite Tree in South Texas with a .410 in hand on a dove hunt at 10, they had the ultimate faith and trust in me to handle those type scenarios on my own from a young age. I have tapped into that in life ever since, whether it's trying a new outdoor adventure or working through a challenging work scenario.

You were recently promoted to President at Taft Broadcasting Company—the company your grandfather started in 1952, and where you've dedicated 23 years of your career. That's such an incredible legacy to be part of. Could you share a bit about the company's mission and what your day-to-day responsibilities look like?

It has been a true honor to follow in the footsteps of both my grandfather and father as President of this 73-year-old small family business. We have a rich history in Houston dating back my grandfather bringing the CBS affiliate, KHOU, here 70+ years ago, to designing and maintaining small- and large-scale audio-visual systems such as the Astrodome, the New Orleans Superdome and the George R. Brown Convention Center, to being contractors at NASA dating back to the lunar mission in the 1960s all the way through the shuttle missions of the 1980s & 1990s. The business has had a presence in Houston for decades.
Currently, as full-time DoD contractors with over 120 employees on both coasts, and just the five of us running the day-to-day from our HQ office in the Heights, it certainly comes with its challenges. But overall we are deeply proud of the missions we support and our ability to provide services to active military members and their families abroad. I love all things military, so the 10,000 foot view of what we at Taft are a small part of brings us all great joy. Also, I love the people with whom I work. My long-time colleagues I hold near and dear.

It's been such a joy watching you work with such integrity and pride.

Now let's talk travel! You refer to yourself as "A HOTEL'S DREAM," which I've witnessed firsthand. No mini-bar is safe when you're around! Can you share your favorite destination, your favorite hotel, and your most treasured travel memory to date?

This is a fun one! Yes, my first move in a new hotel is full inventory and inspection of the minibar before I crack it open! It there's not one, that's a whole different story.... A few of my favorite hotels to date are Four Seasons Astir Palace in Athens, Palm Heights Grand Cayman, The Stafford in London, and Hotel Lucine in Galveston.

But my favorite hotel and experience to date would be with YOU at Gleneagles in Scotland. The history and majesty of the hotel and grounds are remarkable. Their phrase, "The Glorious Playground" is supremely fitting. From driving Land Rovers, to shooting, to the pheasant and duck hunt, to the restaurants and the extremely kind and welcoming staff, I would say sharing that with you is my most treasured travel memory to date, and we barely even tapped all the activities they offer.

I would add, though, that arriving to Venice with you and getting into a mahogany Riva water taxi for the first time was a real core memory for me as well!

{Writer’s Note: I had lofty intentions of sending our first newsletter out well in advance of Father’s Day so you could relish in Lolo’s genius gift ideas -I hope you will bookmark and save for the next celebration for the man in your life}

We collectively celebrate all the dads this month, and honestly, no one has better taste in men's gear than you do. What are some of your top gift recommendations for the men in your life?

For the outdoorsman: you know how I'm going to answer part of this - if they don't already have one, A Barbour waxed jacket or Le Chameau wellies. Bury me in that exact kit. Consider a pocket knife from Benchmade or Ontario Knife Company; a set of work gloves from Brisket Supply; pretty much anything from Kevin's Catalogue. For the bartender: bar treasures from J. Earl & Sons. And back to the knife topic above, it's always fun to have an interesting fixed-blade knife for your bar, possibly stag with a Damascus blade. For the reader: Into Africa, by Martin Dugard; West with the Night, by Beryl Markham; A Man and His Watch, by ; for fiction, all things Cormack McCarthy or Pat Conroy. A few other fun options: a weekender from Tom Beckbe; a belt from Quaker Marine.

What's a routine you have—whether it's morning rituals, devotional time, workouts, or something else entirely—that keeps you grounded and going?

Being in the outdoors and in nature in any capacity is really what not only keeps be going but also brings me the most joy. A routine trail walk with the dogs or watching a sunset while drifting on the boat; an afternoon turning to evening at the end of a dove hunt...those are the moments for me. All with you, of course. In terms of daily rituals, a butt-kicking indoor cycle class is my favorite. It's the perfect combo of your blood pumping, plenty of hype and killer music...can't beat it. In terms of a devotional, I'm a big fan of the Stoics, so I turn to The Daily Stoic or Meditations by Marcus Aurelius. Both excellent reads to keep close by for daily consideration and inspiration.

Lastly, tell us about your perfect day - it can be anywhere with anyone.

Back to a common theme of mine: my perfect day would be out on our boat on Galveston Bay with the pups, a killer playlist setting the mood, and a perfectly packed cooler. Then home for dinner prepared by my favorite chef there is, you. I think it's saying something when your absolute perfect day involves being at home with the ones you love.

I couldn’t agree more, my LoloLove! Thank you for sharing. Now, let’s order another round! 💛🩷🩵🤍🧡

The Kitchen

Speaking of chefs, this month’s recipe is inspired by one of our favorite spots in the Heights, Coltivare. Perfectly crafted cocktails, a divine wine list, and one of the best dressed green garden salads you’ll ever have.

This one particular day, our server told us about a salad special—zucchini carpaccio with squash blossoms. It was a nervous departure from their garden greens (which are so perfect they're almost painful to pass up), but we took the leap and ordered the special. WOWzers—what a dish!

Earlier this month, while in Costa Rica, we dined at Pesce at the Four Seasons, where they offered another version of the delish dish covered with grated Parmigiano Reggiano, herbs, grapefruit segments and seeds - under all that goodness were tender slices of barely cooked zucchini.

As usual, I tried to recreate this stunner of a summer salad home and we loved the way it turned out. It’s the perfect starter plated for one, or as a side plated on a platter. The combo of the crispy zucchini, salty cheese and lemony / herby notes sing when served with grilled meat or fish:

Zucchini Summer Salad

(2) large zucchini, sliced on a mandolin - this is my favorite

⅛ red onion, thinly sliced on a mandolin

hard Italian cheese like Parmiganio or Pecorino, cut into small cubes

1/2 cup of dill / mint / your favorite herbs

micro greens

2 tbsp of the vinaigrette- this is a staple in our house: equal parts lemon juice and olive oil - mix with a tsp Dijon mustard - salt and pepper to taste

Place sliced zucchini on paper towels in a single layer and sprinkle a layer of salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes to release excess moisture, then pat dry. Toss zucchini in vinaigrette and air fry or bake zucchini in one layer for 20 minutes until just browned. Add onion to the remaining vinaigrette. Layer zucchini on a plate in a circular pattern and drizzle with onion, tiny blocks of cheese, greens, and herbs. Add finishing salt and LOTS of freshly ground pepper.

The Bar

Palmilla Margarita

We learn a lot on FAM trips - about the property, the local food and culture - but the most useful tidbit I ever did learn was how to make the famed pink O&O Palmilla margarita by the curator himself. Life-changing details below:

Palmilla Margarita

1 ½ oz blanco tequila

1 oz orange liquor

1 oz lemon juice

¾ oz grapefruit shrub - OR - Fever Tree Grapefruit soda

*if using grapefruit soda add in as a topper - do not add to the shaker*

Mix all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake, shake, shake, strain and serve over ice.

Grapefruit shrub

1 cup grapefruit

1 cup Demerara sugar

Combine in Ziplock for 8 to 12 hours, strain

Add ¼ cup red wine vinegar

Keeps for months at room temp or fridge

and for the perfect playlist to accompany your summer sips

Thanks for joining our first adventure—can't wait for what's next! xx, Libby

Ladies and Gentlemen, Distinguished Guests….

Welcome to Hotel Libby—a dreamy destination where my favorite obsessions are at your service, no passport required.

After years of collecting extraordinary experiences, insider tips, and conversations worth savoring, I've decided to build them a home. Hotel Libby sits at the intersection of luxury and imagination—an exclusive address you won't find on Google Maps but will certainly bookmark in your mind.

Your Room Is Ready

Each month, I’ll check in via your inbox to share news, notes, and nonsense well positioned in each corner of the ‘hotel’ - here’s a preview of our fun ahead:

The Lobby Lounge — Sink into a cozy booth for intimate interviews with tastemakers, industry insiders, and fascinating personalities from my world. The lighting is perfectly dimmed, the fire is always crackling, and the conversation flows as smoothly as the libations.

The Concierge Desk — Consider this your personal travel advisory service. Destination insights, hotel recommendations, and insider tips that I usually reserve for my private clients.

The Kitchen — From crowd-pleasing dinner party menus to my signature Date Night IN series (because sometimes the best reservations are at home), expect favorite recipes that impress without intimidating.

The Bar — Each month brings a new signature cocktail paired with the perfect playlist. Whether you're entertaining a crowd or enjoying a quiet moment alone, our barkeeps have you covered.

The Gift Shop — Curated finds that have earned their space in my luggage, kitchen, or beauty closet. Each recommendation comes with a story and, often, an affiliate link (our bellhops thank you).

The Spa — A sanctuary for wellness wisdom, beauty discoveries, and the occasionally woo-woo (but always wonderful) rituals that keep body, mind and spirit in harmony.

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I’m so happy you’re here!

A Note from Your General Manager

When not managing Hotel Libby, I'm a luxury travel advisor helping discerning travelers create extraordinary memories in destinations that actually require passports. If you're planning real-world adventures alongside our imaginary escapes, visit www.tafttravel.com.

Consider this newsletter your standing reservation. No check-out required, 24-hour room service at your fingertips, and the only baggage allowed is the kind filled with curiosity.

I can't wait to welcome you!

Libby Cagle Taft
General Manager, Hotel Libby