Shannon Rudowski

Grass Valley, CA

Napa Valley Travel Agent Specialist

As the sun began to cast its golden glow over the rolling hills of Napa Valley, I embarked on a journey that promised to be a symphony of flavors and a feast for the senses. This trip to Napa Valley, a wine lover's paradise, unfolded as a celebration of nature's beauty and the artistry of wine making.My adventure kicked off with a scenic drive through the iconic Silverado Trail, flanked by lush vineyards and framed by the majestic backdrop of the Mayacamas and Vaca mountain ranges. The air was crisp, carrying the sweet fragrance of ripening grapes, setting the tone for the vinous escapade that awaited.The first stop on my itinerary was a renowned winery, where I indulged in a guided tour through the vineyard. The knowledgeable guide led us through the meticulous process of grape cultivation, from bud break to harvest, explaining the unique terroir that contributes to the distinctive flavors of Napa Valley wines. Strolling through the neatly aligned vines, I felt a profound connection with the land and the centuries-old tradition of wine making.After the insightful tour, it was time to savor the fruits of the vine. The winery's tasting room offered a selection of their finest wines, each sip unveiling layers of complexity and craftsmanship. The rich Cabernet Sauvignons, crisp Chardonnays, and velvety Merlots danced on my palate, leaving a lingering impression of the region's wine making prowess.The gastronomic delights continued as I explored Napa Valley's culinary scene. I savored a farm-to-table lunch at a charming bistro, where the menu showcased locally sourced ingredients that complemented the wines perfectly. The synergy between food and wine was a testament to Napa Valley's commitment to the art of gastronomy.Eager to explore more, I visited a few boutique wineries tucked away in the valley, each with its own story to tell. From family-owned vineyards with a history dating back generations to avant-garde estates pushing the boundaries of wine making, Napa Valley offered a diverse tapestry of experiences.As the day drew to a close, I found myself at a hillside winery, where I witnessed a breathtaking sunset over the vine-covered landscape. With a glass of exceptional sparkling wine in hand, I toasted to the beauty of Napa Valley and the memories created on this special journey.Reflecting on my trip to Napa Valley, I couldn't help but marvel at the region's ability to blend tradition and innovation seamlessly. It was not just a pilgrimage for wine enthusiasts; it was an immersion into a world where every sip told a story, and every vineyard had a unique melody to share. Napa Valley, with its picturesque vistas and exceptional wines, had cast its spell, leaving me with a deep appreciation for the artistry that transforms grapes into liquid poetry.

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Lake Tahoe Destination Travel Agent Expert

Summertime in Lake Tahoe

In the early 1980’s a friend of mine started talking about this place up the hill. They talked about Lake Tahoe in Winter. They said the snowpack was tremendous and how great the feeling of skiing on powder and the adrenaline that comes and the fresh mountain air filling your lungs and they felt alive. So my girl friends and I jumped in the car for a 3 hour drive from the bay area and Northstar on the California side. We shopped for ski pants and jackets, ski’s and poles and braved up for our first lesson. Turns out, we were more the water skiing type. LakeTahoe is divided between California and Nevada. All around the lake there are cabins large and small. Many places to stay in Tahoe and accommodations range from Camping by the lake to Gourmet dining, events and shows and gambling casinos. The Sierra Mountains surround Lake Tahoe. Celebrities can be seen playing golf at the picturesque golf resort in Town. This area has something for everybody. In the summertime, you can take the tram up the mountain, to Heavenly, or watch fireworks over the lake on the 4th of July. Try the Sunday Brunch at “The Lake of the Timbers” restaurant on the top floor, and place your bets and win big and have a real good time wherever you visit. Turns out, I love the summers in Tahoe the best, for its canoeing on the lake, bike riding through Forest, walking the high hills, Hot tubbing, and trying the various cuisines in the hotel restaurants. It is the best! If you are looking for less crowds, try boating, fishing, or gliding across the water on the Northside of Lake Tahoe, is perfect for that. Camping with the bears, or a quiet picnic, water skiing, or shop for unique trinkets from local vendors.

My Reviews

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.

My friends and I were looking for a European trip to see more of the countryside not accessible on City tours. I saw a commercial for train tours through Italy, with glass domes to see more of the spectacular landscape, while sipping perfectly paired wines and the most excellent europeans style cuisine. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, is a luxurious and iconic train experience that evokes the elegance and glamor of the golden age of travel. Needless to say, we were all onboard for the experience. Shannon provided information and options with pictures to give us a taste of what to expect. Shannon booked the round trip flights, tickets on the Orient-Express, plus transportation to and from the airport. We had a blast! The staff was friendly, making it easy to relax. We all felt the service was excellent. The train was stunning European decor and a smooth ride. The cuisine was epic, and the wait staff attentive to our needs, making our trip all we expected and more.

By Dr. Stacy from Rough & Ready, California
Traveled to Italy ~ Europe

I would recommend this agent to my family and friends