FATHER'S DAY GIFT GUIDE

What do you get the dad who has everything? I’m never really sure what to buy but I must say it’s a fun trip down the Father’s Day google rabbit hole to discover that special gift for that special dad.

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In honor of Father's Day, my son and I are honoring this guy!  Nobody enjoys an adventure more than my husband Derek. This April we scaled a wall… The Great Wall that is and it was a “check that box” moment for the three of us. First stop; Tokyo, Kyoto then we flew to South Korea and paid a visit to the DMZ then off to Beijing China and last stop Hong Kong. What a trip and one of the best experiences we’ve had as a family so far. Guess who plans our educational travel extravaganzas? The husband, the father Derek Norton.

Happy Father's Day husband! It was an exciting adventure once again. Luca, Buster and I are grateful for all you do!

We Love you!

We always know what’s at the top of your check list to bring almost anywhere. A travel backgammon set!

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I’ll start with the #1 item on his list. A travel backgammon set.

Looking for some fun gadgets that are efficient and get the job done?

Here’s some extra hot air!

Here’s some extra hot air!

Don’t leave home without this trusty hotspot

Don’t leave home without this trusty hotspot

When we travel we are never without Skyroam Your personal WiFi hotspot keeps you connected around the world with fast, secure & cost-saving mobile data.

Maybe it’s time to make a little music!

Sock it to him this Father’s Day with these fun socks from Stance & a personal favorite sandal brand from R0am Wear. Created for and inspired by those who truly live dynamically, integrating sport, travel, health, fashion and adventure into a lifestyle of wellness and fun!  This is R0AM.

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This quote is the greatest gift we can receive from a parent. Our son knows he is loved and supported and that his life and thoughts matter. He knows he can alway come to us and we will be there. From day one Derek has showed up for our son and as a wife and mother…. this is priceless.

Cheers to the wonderful fathers, father figures and male mentors out there, you have touched the lives of people out there, you don’t even know.  Thank you for all that you do, for the hard work you put into the world and your strength. Thank you for our father’s whom we loved and learned from who are no longe with us, they too are remembered.

Have a beautiful day!

janet gunn

HOTEL PRINCIPE DI SALINA - PARADISE

Welcome to The Principe di Salina, or better-known as paradise. This unique hotel will leave you thinking about your return. If you plan on doing a little island hopping around the Aeolian Islands Principe di Salina is a must. As soon as you arrive you are met by the heart and soul of this charming hotel, the Principe di Salina family…yes, it's family owned and operated. 

Welcome to paradise

Welcome to paradise

The Italian island of Salina is one of the Aeolian Islands, a cluster of 7 volcanic islands and is a destination for nature and tranquility lovers. Salina is made up of volcanic rocks, slopes of olive trees and caper flowers  seen growing everywhere. The island is known for its charming villages where time feels like it’s stopped,

Lobby View

Lobby View

Soon as you walk through the doors you look straight out to the terrace, where you have a birds-eye view of Stromboli and Panarea, and they let you know right away, not to miss the sunset.

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This lovely infinity pool faces the ocean and there is also a spa tub, at a high temperature coming for a natural spring below the hotel.

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It's the little things. There are twelve rooms, all which have private balconies overlooking the sea and the large common spaces, such as the roof terrace and the pool area, is the place where everyone returns to…or never leaves.

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The rooms decor is made by local designers and your outside terrace is surrounded with flowers and a view of the sea. Perfect for your dreamy stay.

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Principe di Salina has a way that keeps you present, you'll find yourself day-dreaming everywhere you are. 

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Happy to catch the son under the sun having a little down time ...catching up on his reading.

It never felt crowded, you could find peaceful moments anytime of the day.

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Buongiorno! Welcome to the communal table. The owner of the hotel is also the chef, Chef Silvana that is. Feel free to join in or dine inside the front living area that feels like home. Probably my most favorite time was sunrise and enjoying the best cappuchihosl  

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 Silvana makes sure breakfast, lunch and dinners arrive with just the right touch.

The food the wine the presentation.

The food the wine the presentation.

The local caper flowers create a perfect topper to Silvana's delicious meals. Dinner includes an entree, first and second plates, the dessert is homemade and prepared based on the fresh ingredients of the island. The internal restaurant is open only for the guests as they like to create a very “homey” atmosphere for the Principe family. 

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We'll have homemade pasta... more pasta, Rose and backgammon!! And why not!

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Don't miss a short walk into the quaint town, it's about 10 minutes, and if you continue down the hill for about 15 you'll be seaside. My favorite purchase was this bag I'm carrying, II bought it at the hotel, made by a local designer.

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At the bottom of the hill, you can rent a boat and zip over to Santa Marina for a lovely lunch. Walking time from our hotel to the marina took about 15 - 20 minutes and In no time you're off and exploring. The marina and the front desk will have the best suggestions if you plan to venture out.

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We took our boat to Lingua with a few stops along the way, it took about 30 minutes and well worth it. It's an easy day trip with fresh seafood and pasta restaurants to look forward to.

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We're were always thrilled to return to our home away from home.

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Principe di Salina is a place where you can hang your towel and when you return you'll feel right at home. Grazie Millie Principe, our family had such an amazing stay and every meal was incredible. All your special touches do not go unnoticed. We are grateful to have had such a loving experience with your family, and Grazie for making us feel like family. 

xoxo  Janet, Derek & Luca

ARRIVAL

The closest airports are Catania, Palermo, and Naples. Catania Fontanarossa (CTA) is the closest and suggested airport.

We spent the night in Milazzo - took the boat to Salina

Boat to Salina - the arrival time of your flight should not be later than 3 pm. On your day of departure, please make sure to book your flight after 11 am to ensure enough time to get off the island and reach the airport. If you manage to depart in the afternoon, you will have a more comfortable commute. 

From Catania - 

Hydrofoil from Milazzo to Salina SM (1h 50) / Liberty lines

Bus From Catania, (approx 1,5hours) 

ISLAND ACTIVITIES

Rental cars, scooters, bicycles – Organization of boat trips to other islands, or rent your own boat (you will need a boating license) –The hotel will inform you where to rent these boats. Organization of excursions and trekking – Wine cellar visits – Transfer to and from the Catania-Transfer from the airport and from the port. You can also enjoy snorkeling or diving activities. 

WHAT TO PACK

You won't need much but think flowing caftans for that island breeze with a touch of elegance. Sun protection, a hat, shorts and simple dresses. Pack your sneakers if you like to hike, run or walk. A good book, but they have plenty there.

CHILDREN

Kids of all ages are welcome, but the hotel can only accommodate two tots at a time, so book well in advance. The restaurant has a highchair and the chef is happy to adapt the evening menu and heat up baby food. The infinity pool is six meters deep.

LOCAL SPOTS

Ask the front desk, they have the best suggestions. We had most of our meals there, we preferred to enjoy the hotel and Silvana's cooking!  Why leave?

 Email me if you have any questions & sign up for my newsletter to stay updated on my travel post.

Grazie!

xoxo Janet

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