Bella Rossi

Indonesia Expert that lived in Bali

Indonesia:

Indonesia is known as a travelers paradise. The country is composed of over 1700 islands. It is a place where the scale of beauty is almost hard to comprehend unless you are there experiencing it yourself. Whether you are looking for adventures in nature or a relaxing tropical escape, Indonesia has what you are looking for. Crystal blue waters, abundant wildlife, waterfalls the size of skyscrapers, flowers everywhere, volcanoes, beaches with sand of all different colors, exotic fruits, surfers, the list goes on and on. The most popular places to visit are Bali, Komodo National Park, and Raja Ampat. I spent a month living and working as a volunteer in Bali and fell in love with the people, food, and culture. If you are looking for a destination that offers a total sensory recalibration, Indonesia is the answer. It is a land where ancient spirit meets modern energy, and every island tells a completely different story. Religion is practiced in such a beautiful way here, it is intertwined in daily life and respected by everyone.

Nature:

For a nature lover Indonesia has a wide range to display. Dense rainforests filled with different kinds of monkeys and hikes to waterfalls, and diverse ocean life like nowhere else. For a more rugged experience there are different kinds of volcanoes you can summit on the different islands. I myself climbed the volcano Mt. Batur in Bali to see the sunrise at the summit. Other islands such as Java are famous for multi-day hikes to see Mount Bromo volcano and Ijen crater. If you are more of an aquatic nature lover the oceans here have magical biodiversity. The underwater universe is like no other with thousands of species of fish, manta rays, sharks, whales, and more. There are boat tours where you can swim among dolphin pods in Bali, or go to Sumbawa where you can swim with whale sharks. Snorkeling is easily accessible in most places here but if you are scuba certified consider traveling to Raja Ampat, an archipelago globally known as one of the best diving hot spots in the world. Did I mention that you can also take surf lessons on many of the islands? The activities and possibilities for adventure are endless. Komodo National Park is also known for its other worldly day trips, where you can visit pink sand beaches, see komodo dragons in their natural habitat, and also experience volcanic island hiking that is less intense.

Culture:

Bali is often referred to as “the land of the gods” because of the island's deep Hindu spirit, with thousands of ornate temples, daily practiced rituals, and a holy calendar that is recognized by the government. The culture here emphasizes harmony among gods, people, and nature. The people of Bali are filled with kindness, and give constant respect back to the land. Bali is also famous for its yoga teacher training, retreats, and other meditative practices. Being able to witness the culture and spirituality here is a privilege. While living and volunteering in Bali I was invited to a traditional wedding and was able to see how differently they celebrate. Observing how two people are unified in another culture was beautiful. The bride and groom wore ornate golden headpieces, and there was a large meal shared seated on the floor with all of the guests, afterwards karaoke was sung as everyone cheers to the couple, drinking locally distilled arak (a fermented alcohol) celebrating the night.

Hospitality and coffee culture are also thriving in Indonesia. There are many different options for coffee tours depending on where you choose to visit. I did a coffee and tea tour in Ubud, Bali where I was able to try luwak coffee which is known to be extremely coveted. I was surrounded by rice terraces and could hear waterfalls in the distance while sipping on coffee and tea flights and trying balinese chocolate. 

My “Why Indonesia”:

Even with an array of activity options your trip to Indonesia can have an itinerary as full or as open as you would like. There are many hotels and resorts that are designed to just be appreciated through relaxation and absorbing the beauty of your surroundings. Ecotourism is booming here with nature activities and ecolodging options. The long trip to the other side of the world is worth the memories you’ll make here, where you really are transported to paradise. I am still in contact with many of the locals I met in Bali that showed me unforgettable places and gave me experiences like being able to swim with whale sharks, and watch people carve traditional masks out of wood. Intimate moments like this are why travelling feeds your soul, and Indonesia is a place that will change how you see the world.

Vietnam Destination Specialist

Vietnam: 

Vietnam cannot just be summed up in a few words. The richness in culture, biodiversity, and experiences spans across the country from North to South. To understand Vietnam you have to imagine a place that exists in a state of contestant beauty with juxtaposition between hustle and bustle of busy streets, to zen artisan villages and quiet rice terraces. It is a place where ancient buildings contrast against tall glass skyscrapers, and where street food costing just a few dollars can leave a lasting impression for the rest of your life. 

I love Vietnam because the experience you have in the country is completely up to you and how deep you are ready to dive in. I have spent weeks at a time exploring different parts of the country. I still dream about some of the food there, from a quick street bahn mi to an elevated salt coffee each region puts their own stylistic twist on Viet classic dishes. It is not just a location with breathtaking views, it is also a foodie's dream. If you are considering travelling to Vietnam and want to learn more about what is in store for you, let me help create an itinerary that will show you the beauty of Vietnam inside and out.

Northern Vietnam:

When first arriving in Vietnam I recommend flying into Hanoi. Hanoi is one of my favorite cities in all of Asia! Starting your journey in the capital city you will be welcomed by locals even in fast paced streets filled with motorbikes and coffee shops. Walking through the Old Quarter you will be able to see historical commerce areas where silk, silver, bamboo, pottery, and more, are all sold and coveted. The smells in the city envelop you, and the coffee culture here is unmatched! Food and drink tours are one of the best ways to really experience Hanoi.

If you’re looking to slow down your pace, SaPa is a fantastic rural place to visit. This is where the iconic photos of lush rice terraces and water buffalos are from. You can choose to “trek” and walk from village to village through these terraces with local guides, or camp out at a hotel or local homestay, spending your days in zen surrounded by gorgeous rural views.

Ha Long Bay on the Northeastern coast is famous for its emerald green waters and large islands that look like floating mountains around you. You can explore different beaches, caves, and floating villages. Ha Long Bay can be seen through day trips from Hanoi, with boat excursions, or you can stay in the bay.

Central Vietnam:

Vietnam is also unique with its transportation, as there are sleeper buses and sleeper trains that go from one end of the country to the other allowing more flexibility. Travelling like this lets you see more regions in Vietnam. Central Vietnam is where more of the off-the-beaten-path experiences occur. With many cities to choose from including Hue, Da Nang, Ninh Binh, and Hoi An you are in a historically rich region. River boats, pagodas, temples, white sand beaches, artist villages, lantern ceremonies, and more. The arts of all kinds are vibrant in this region, with light shows, and different song and dance productions. Spa culture is also very popular here.

If you are an artist or want to learn a new craft such as silversmithing, or pottery, the UNESCO World Heritage city of Hoi An is for you. An artisan village and tailor capital of the world where anything you can think up can be created here. Souvenirs from a trip are special but how often can you bring back custom handmade tailored clothing!

Southern Vietnam:

Continuing on South there is a shift where you feel like you are in the future. Neon lights, packed city grids, businesses everywhere around you, Ho Chi Minh city (previously Saigon) is the country’s economic hub and where about 9 million people live. There is a 24/7 energy here, with the maze of the city showing you that there is always something new to do just around the corner. Ho Chi Minh is located right off of the Mekong Delta, where you can take day trips and river cruises.

Southern Vietnam has rich history from the Vietnam War and I recommend any traveller that is visiting here to take time to see the War Remnants Museum. Learning the impacts of the United States and the War in this region is imperative in opening your mind to what is around you. Paying respect through educating yourself is a very enriching part of having the privilege to see these parts of the world.

My “Why Vietnam”: 

Vietnam has something for everyone, whether you are solo looking for adventure, a couple looking to experience new culture, or a family wanting to travel to a once in a lifetime location. I have travelled across various continents and I always emphasize that more people need to visit Vietnam. This country catches your attention and pulls you into its culture like no other. You feel less like a vacationer and more like a true traveller. You will leave Vietnam thinking “Why haven't I come here sooner?” I myself cannot wait for my next trip back. So when are we booking your trip?

Guatemala Destination Travel Agent Specialist

Guatemala:

Guatemala remains a hidden gem. Not due to a lack of wonder, but because it feels like a beautifully kept secret. It is a country of pure vibrance where every corner is bright with color. While the breathtaking landscapes may first catch your attention, you will soon realize that the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage exist in perfect harmony. From active volcanoes defining the horizon to deep lakes of bright blue water and ancient Mayan ruins hidden within the rainforest, the list of wonders is truly endless. I spent a month here in an artist residency program learning to weave and naturally dye wool with a local family and it changed the way I saw Central America as a whole.

The streets of Guatemala are filled with music, roads paved with cobblestone lined by buildings of every color. Locals dressed in traditional clothing sell handmade goods and produce at markets in every city and town. During my time in Guatemala I felt transported to a place of constant joy, reflecting my surroundings with the vibrance of life there. If you are considering travelling to Guatemala I urge you to take the leap and welcome the color into your life. I’ll create the perfect itinerary using what I learned while travelling there myself.

Antigua:

After flying into Guatemala City, the first stop for the majority of travellers in Guatemala is Antigua. Antigua is a UNESCO heritage site that is best known for its preserved Spanish architecture and is surrounded by distant volcanoes. Slow mornings here include a stroll down the street to the Central Park, where local coffee shops are buzzing. There are many different clothing boutiques, jewelry stores, local markets, and even rooftop bars where you can see the volcanoes around you.

My favorite part of Antigua is the history and stories the streets and walls tell. Guatemala sits over a convergence of three tectonic plates, causing many small earthquakes per year. While it is not common for these earthquakes to be highly destructive (only once every few decades) the walls tell the stories of the earthquakes in the past with cracking and visible mending with dates of the event marking them. There are walkable ruins, colonial buildings, and famous cathedrals that date all the way back to the 16th century. You can wander Antigua without a location in mind, allowing the city to guide you. 

Lake Atitlán:

If Antigua is the heart of Guatemala, then Lake Atitlán is the soul. Many people describe the lake as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world and they are not exaggerating. Formed in a massive volcanic crater, the lake is surrounded by three towering volcanoes and a dozen indigenous Mayan villages, each with its own distinct personality. It’s the deepest lake in Central America and on a clear morning you can hike or paddle board to see active volcanoes erupting in the distance. Seriously!

In villages like San Juan La Laguna, you can witness the incredible tradition of textile arts. I watched women use backstrap looms to weave intricate patterns that have been passed down through generations, using natural dyes made from bark, insects, and plants. It isn't just "craft"—it’s living history. Other villages like San Marcos are known for their spiritual vibe with yoga and meditation retreats.

Petén and Tikal:

Petén is the wild, jungle region that hides the crown jewels of the Maya civilization. While much of the country is defined by volcanic peaks, Petén is all about the tree canopy. Flores is the main city here and acts as the base for those who are looking to visit Tikal. Tikal is a Mayan archaeological site, it is a collection of giant limestone pyramids piercing through the jungle reaching towards the sun. Unlike other ancient sites where you simply walk among the ruins, in Tikal, you climb them. The experience is incredible, climbing temples of the earliest human constructions while you hear howler monkeys singing in the distance.

Chichicastenango:

Chichicastenango is the largest and most famous traditional local market in Central America. It is open every Thursday and Sunday, I recommend planning your trip so you can experience it firsthand. It is more than just a place to shop, it is an overflow of culture. Every inch of the town’s narrow streets is packed with stalls with hand-woven huipiles (traditional blouses), intricate masks, and vibrant goods. At the heart of the market is a 400-year-old church where you’ll see Mayan shamans performing rituals on the stone steps.

My “Why Guatemala”:

Guatemala is a country of profound beauty and deep complexity that is authentic. My eyes were opened up to looking at the world in a more creative way while here. Culture is more than just a way of life that is practiced, it’s woven into the history and deserves to be appreciated. While there I felt welcomed into the pace of life and admired the small moments, even once I returned home. Guatemala is waiting, and I promise, a piece of your heart will stay there forever.

Turkey Travel Agent Specialist

Turkey:

Turkey is special to me because it is the first country I went to explore on a solo trip. I wanted to pick a country filled with history that is also rich in biodiversity. What I learned while there is that Turkey doesn’t just span two continents, but it bridges the gap between practices of the ancient world and the cutting edge of modern culture and society. Turkey has layers of complexity, and should be explored with a curious heart. While it may not be a country that first comes to mind when planning a vacation, if you take the leap to travel here you will be rewarded in all sensory aspects. Mediterranean meals with Asian twists, tea tastings and coffee rituals, clear waters and rock beaches in the Turkish riviera, historic sites older than the Roman Empire, calming massages, or even volcanic sculpted mountains you can hot air balloon over. The list really goes on and on, so let’s break it down with some of my favorite places to experience in Turkey.

Istanbul:

To understand Turkey, you must visit Istanbul. This is a city that feels like the center of the universe. Standing on the banks of the Bosphorus Strait that goes through Istanbul, you are literally looking at Europe while standing in Asia, or vice-versa. The energy here is electric, with a constant flow of  street vendors, the rhythmic clinking of tea glasses, and the vibration and respect ringing through the air as the Muslim call to prayer sounds five times a day.

The "Historic Peninsula" is home to the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, architectural marvels that play with light and scale in ways that are truly humbling. My favorite mosque is the Süleymaniye Mosque. By walking there you are rewarded after an uphill journey as the view from the courtyard allows you to overlook the city standing on the European side, viewing the Asian side of Istanbul in the distance. For a traveler who appreciates the intricacies of craft, the Grand Bazaar is the ultimate place to let yourself get lost. With over 4,000 shops, it is a living museum of trade. Here, you can find the most exquisite Turkish rugs and tapestries, pottery, handmade glass lamps, sweet stands, and more. Istanbul is a city that invites you to get lost in its neighborhoods, from the trendy boutiques of Karaköy on the Asian side (also where some of my favorite cuisine is!), to the colorful houses of Balat in the European side's historic Greek neighborhood. I recommend staying a few nights on each side of Istanbul to really experience it all.

Izmir and Alaçati:

As you move toward the coast, the pace slows and the air fills with the salty breeze of the Aegean sea. Izmir and Alaçati are my favorite locations along the Turkish Riviera. This area is the sun-drenched heart of western Turkey. The city of Izmir is filled with palm-lined promenades and a zest for life that feels reminiscent of the Mediterranean’s most iconic ports. You can walk along the water and visit smaller local bazaars in the different neighborhoods.

A short drive away lies Alaçati, a town that looks like a dream. With its narrow cobblestone streets, stone houses with blue shutters, and vibrant pink flowers climbing up vines, it is arguably the most picturesque spot on the coast. Alaçati is a haven for foodies and design lovers. The local market is a celebration of Aegean herbs, olives, and there is fresh caught seafood at every restaurant. fresh seafood. It’s the perfect blend of rustic tradition and barefoot luxury.

Ephesus:

Ephesus is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the Mediterranean, and this is why I was drawn to Turkey. Seeing photos of the Library of Celsus does not do it justice. It is one of the largest roman libraries in the world, and its towering, intricate facade, stands as a testament to the intellectual grandeur of the ancient world. Walking down the marble paved roads of Ephesus is a transformative experience, where you will be able to see and touch the very stone structures that were visited by Cleopatra, Julius Caesar, and even the Virgin Mary.

What makes Ephesus truly special is the level of detail that remains—the faint remnants of murals in the terrace houses, the massive Great Theater that once held 25,000 spectators, and the feeling that the residents only just stepped away.

My “Why Turkey”:

The magic of Turkey lies in its welcoming culture. It is a nation of profound hospitality, where a stranger is treated like a guest. It’s in the flavor of a chai shared with a shop owner, the steam of a traditional hammam and massage, and the realization that you are walking on layers upon layers of human history. Whether you are looking for a curated multi-city tour of the ancient sites, or a relaxing escape along the riviera, I can help you navigate the beautiful complexities of this country so you can experience it as I did.

Greece Travel Agent Expert - I lived in Athens!

Greece:

Greece is famous for its clear blue Mediterranean waters, picturesque white and blue buildings, and remarkably preserved ancient historical ruins. Having briefly lived in Athens, I have experienced Greece beyond the postcards. I’ve seen it in the quiet mornings with cats roaming the streets, the many moods of the Parthenon- either bustling with tours or quiet at sunrise. I’ve lived through the frantic energy of a local market, and in the slow, sun-drenched afternoons of a remote island village. If you are looking for a journey that balances profound history paired with the beauty of the mediterranean, Greece is your masterpiece. While Athens has my heart, I also hold islands like Paros, Ios, and Milos close to me. These islands are lesser known than the famous Mykonos and Santorini, and they give so much more to you through a more authentic Greek experience.

Athens:

Most people view Athens as a mere layover on the way to the islands, but having called this city home, I can tell you it is one of the most vibrant capitals in the world. Athens is a city of layers. You have the ancient world looking down from the Acropolis, but at its feet lies a modern metropolis that is gritty, artistic, and extremely alive. It’s a city that is also easy to navigate. One may think a busy metropolitan area filled with a language so different from English would be confusing and overwhelming, however Athens is very walkable, and also has convenient public transport around the city including bus lines and train lines. While the Acropolis serves as the constant, marble North Star, the city’s real heartbeat is found in its "polykatoikia" (apartment blocks), its hidden courtyards, quaint taverna’s, and welcoming coffee and cocktail shops.

Taking a deeper look at the neighborhoods and cultural rhythms can help define the Athenian experience. Nestled just beneath the northeast slope of the Acropolis is “Anafiotika”, a tiny neighborhood that looks like it was plucked directly from the Cyclades Islands. It was built in the mid-19th century by stonemasons. They built their homes in the style of their home island—tiny, white-washed cubes with bright blue doors and narrow, winding alleys. Walking through Anafiotika feels like a secret escape. There are no cars, only stray cats sunning themselves on marble steps. It is the perfect counter-balance to the grand, sweeping scale of the Parthenon just a few hundred meters above. To see where the modern Athenians actually live and create, you have to move away from the tourist centers like Plaka (although Plaka is a fun place to shop!) “Pangrati” is the neighborhood I lived in. Located right behind the Panathenaic Olympic Stadium, this neighborhood is the epitome of Athenian "cool." It’s hilly, dense, and packed with specialty coffee shops, small galleries, and some of the best modern bistros in the city. While Athens is a city some may think you can "see" in 24-48 hours; it’s a city that if you allow the time to explore you will quickly want to stay and inhabit it yourself.

The Islands:

The islands of Greece can mostly speak for themselves with their jaw dropping beauty. Once most people think of Greece they already are filling their mind with views of clear blue water, fresh fish, cobblestone roads, and white and blue buildings. The hard decision is not “Should I go to Greece?” but it is “Which islands should I go to?” Each island has its own charm and identity. My personal favorites are Paros, Ios, and Milos.

Paros is often described as the perfect middle ground of the Cyclades. Many homes here have the iconic white walls and bright blue details. While the coast offers chic boutiques and vibrant dining, the mountain village of Lefkes is where you can walk marble-paved streets, and find a slower pace of life. It is an island of "hidden layers," perfect for those who want both a vibrant social scene and deep cultural immersion. Paros also has a sister island called Antiparos, just a 7 minute ferry away! Antiparos has no cars on the island and is a very laid back place with beaches and caves that you can explore walking around or by renting an ATV.

While Ios has a reputation for its legendary party scene, there is a serene, rugged side to the island that remains one of Greece’s best-kept secrets. Its main village is a cascading labyrinth of blue-domed chapels and white-washed alleys that glows during the "golden hour." Beyond the village, the island offers spectacular snorkeling and boat adventures where you can rent a day tour on a catamaran to island and beach hop.

Milos is a geological wonderland, defined by its volcanic history and surreal coastlines. It is perhaps the most "cinematic" island in the archipelago, home to the famous moonscape of Sarakiniko Beach, where bone-white volcanic rock meets the turquoise Aegean. For a traveler looking for an "off-the-beaten-path" aesthetic and unmatched natural photography, Milos is the ultimate stop.