Robin Locker

My story does not begin like the typical story. I live in New York in the beautiful Hudson Valley. I am not Italian or French, although most days I feel like I was in a former life.

I was not immersed in European culture as a child. I did not spend countless hours cooking with my Grandmother in the kitchen, sharing time honored family recipes, globetrotting or museum hopping.

I never had an overwhelming desire to travel to Europe.

Until the day I saw Under the Tuscan Sun, that is.

My life changed that day. For the better.

I planned a two week ‘trip of a lifetime’ and experienced Venice, Florence, San Gimignano, Lucca, Chianti, Rome and Positano.

I loved everything about Italy- the gregarious people, the food, the cafés, the wine, the cappuccino, the history…the lifestyle in general.

Then came Paris. The first time I came upon the Pont St. Michel on the Seine, with Notre Dame in the background, with the grand Hausmann style architecture and beautiful flowers dripping over the iron balustrades- it was breathtaking. And of course there is the Eiffel Tower....

There is somthing very magical that happens to me when I spend time in any of these places- and Europe in general.

I just come alive. I feel like I belong. The moment I leave, I can't wait to get back.

I enjoy traveling frequently to Europe but in between trips I like to discover new things that remind me of the European culture that I love so much. I blog about those experiences, recipes I make, pictures I take, travel tips, ways to travel on a budget, how to take only a carry-on bag and anything to keep YOU in the know.

My passion for travel and undying love for Italy and France, grew into a multi-facted business which includes freelance writing, travel consulting, itinerary planning, photography, and of course, blogging.

I offer personally customized travel arrangements and itineraries to Italy, Paris and the Hudson Valley.

After a personal consultation based on your individual needs, interests and budget, I can suggest airfare and hotel accommodations, offer recommended daily itineraries or provide you with a selection of my favorite restaurant recommendations, cafes and food markets by area.

I can arrange cooking classes, wine tasting and private guides.

To arrange a consultation, ask a question or for more information about services please contact me by clicking on the 'Emailme' link at the top of the page.

My wish is for you to visit Europe and be willing to let it change your life as it did mine.

And for me. Well, someday I hope to publish my travel memoirs from the very first time I set foot on Italian soil, my first solo trip to Paris, dinner with my Parisianne friend's family in her home and meeting up with expat friends in Rome. Each subsequent trip ads yet more stories!

And I dream of living out the rest of my life in the beautiful Tuscany region of Italy- drunk on Chianti and the Italian language.

Happy Travels!