Regular readers of this column might have noticed an italicized notation at the bottom of each week’s article directing readers to another website. That website, My Mélange, is owned by travel professional Robin Locker, who has recently expanded her travel services, launched a new website and is offering special deals and giveaways on her products all this week for her relaunch.

I recently sat down with Robin via Skype-and several hours and a few hefty cappuccini later-our interview was complete.

(c) Robin Locker

1. You started My Mélange in 2006 as a way to help others infuse European culture into their lifestyles. How has that evolved into what it is today?

“Initially it started as more of a creative outlet – a way to meet like-minded, creative people who loved to travel and I thought I’d give folks an opportunity for some arm-chair travel. Maybe convince a few people to travel to Europe. While it certainly hit the mark on all of those points (I have met some fabulous friends and colleagues!) it really has become so much more. It really changed my life.

The blog was (and still is) always fun. I never saw it as work. I looked forward to writing and the creative process. With encouragement and advice from some friends, I pursued freelance writing and continue to love that.

There is a famous quote – ‘Find something you love to do and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.’ I feel very fortunate to have found many things I love to do!”

2. In addition to freelance writing, travel consulting and offering products through your online Flea Market, what new plans do you have for the new My Mélange?

“Glad you asked! The new site still has a focus on the blog, but it is also a fully functioning website that features all of my travel services, like custom itineraries and foodie adventures for Paris and Italy, carry-on consultations and travel workshops.

And I am very excited about my new photo gallery, where readers can browse my photos and will be able to purchase prints, greeting cards and custom luggage tags, right on the site.

I will still feature guest bloggers who talk about France, Italy and everything related to travel. I have some great interviews and giveaways scheduled – especially during the kick-off week. Make sure you stop by!”

(c) Robin Locker

3. I won’t make you choose between Italy or France-but what is your favorite city or location in each of these countries?

“The best way for me to describe it is this: I love France, but I am in love with Italy-and my favorite place in Italy has to be Tuscany.

Whether people have read an outdated book or embellished travel brochures, they often think that because Italy is a relatively small country, it is easy-and inexpensive-to get from one point to another. And that is not always the case.

In fact, there are so many places I still have yet to discover in the Bel Paese, but I can tell you that I just love the quiet, picturesque small-town charm found in many of the tiny hill towns of Tuscany.

The villages, though small, usually have whatever you need right there- a cafe, a trattoria, a food market, a wine shop and of course a gelateria. And when you are craving the big city- Florence is just a train or bus ride away!”

4. What about in France?

“It has to be Paris! What a fabulously chic and elegant city. It has something for everyone-stunning architecture, world-class art, top quality food, romance around every corner and golden flaky croissants! And the Métro is so clean and efficient, it makes it so easy to get around, regardless of which Paris hotel you choose.”

5. What do you think is the single best thing someone can do to infuse European culture in their lives at home?

“Other than read my blog?! Seriously, I think reading should be at the top of the list. Read books, memoirs, cookbooks, subscribe to blogs, magazines and travel sites on any and all subjects that have to do with the areas that you are passionate about.

From there, you’ll get ideas and find your own inspiration. Even if you pick up one or two new things to try, introduce them slowly so that it won’t seem overwhelming or feel like work- it will just be natural. Over time, you’ll just wake up one day and realize you’re living it!

Buy a new Italian cookbook and try making fresh pasta, learn some of the language with free, on-line programs, find a good market in your area where you can score some authentic products, listen to French music, go to an opera or try a new wine. Have fun experimenting!”

Be sure to visit My Mélange this week for a chance to prizes, such as a Dream of Italy newsletter subscription, Italy Instructions for Use book or photos, like the ones featured above.

Until next time … Buon Viaggio!

 
Last week I was surprised-and honored-to be named one of the 15 great new travel blogs over at Inside the Travel Lab. Besides being  flattered that other travel bloggers read My Bella Vita, I’m happy to know that all of my hard work, research and writing is going to good use.
 
So today, I’m passing the torch … here are 15 of my favorite travel blogs, in no particular order, that you are guaranteed to love!
 
- Killing Batteries – Possibly the funniest travel blog I read, Killing Batteries is written by professional travel writer, Leif Pettersen who has penned three guidebooks for Lonely Planet. Read more about him here. I promise. The guy is funny.
 
- Everything Everywhere - Fabulous photos and text by Gary Arndt, who has been traveling the world-and blogging about it-since 2007. But, I’m not the only one who thinks Gary rocks. He has been nominated and/or won more than two dozen travel blog awards in the last two years. Check it out.
 
- Cool Travel Guide – You’ve heard me talk about Lara Dunston’s Cool Travel Guide, but with over 60 countries and 40 guide books (including the newly released Travellers Calabria) to her name, it is well worth the repeat. She is also good for some inside information into less-visited areas around the globe.
 
- Nomadic Matt’s Travel Site – Written by, you guessed it, Matt, this site features weekly photos, travel tips and videos and is a good place to procrastinate your day away … if you are so inclined.
 
- Europe a la Carte – A collaborate blog featuring everything Europe. A fun site to visit if you want to learn about a lot of different places across Europe.
 
- 52 Perfect Days – This site features travel writing, photos and videos from states across the US while helping readers uncover the secret to, you guessed it, a perfect day.
 
- Delicious Baby – As if name wasn’t cute enough, this award-winning blog about traveling with children has spawned two undercover investigations and been featured in Conde Nast Traveler and Frommers. Even if you aren’t a traveling parent, this site is worth a look.
 
- 1002 Things Before I Kick the Bucket – Follow the life of a 20-something dreamer as she sets out to create and tackle her personal bucket list. But I warn you, you’ll want to steal her list …
 
- Europe UpClose – Yet another fabulous blog about traveling in Europe.
 
- Nerd’s Eye View – Fun blog from an eclectic freelance writer and blogger-and ukulele player-who you are guaranteed to fall in love with. This self-proclaimed nerd just finished her second guide book and has been published in a variety of magazines and online outlets.
 
- Fevered Mutterings – Freelance writer and blogger Mike Sowden is boldly going fourth and sharing it all with us.
 
- Indie Travel Podcast – Hosted by Craig and Linda Martin, this site features audio and video podcasts and was awarded first place in Lonely Planet’s Best Podcast category in 2009.
 
- TravelPod – Fun place to go where travelers share stories, write posts and upload videos and photos from recent journeys. This is the perfect site for an armchair traveler.
 
- Almost Fearless – Kick-ass site written by corporate dropout-turned digital vagabond who has traveled to over a dozen countries in the last year. The site is full of articles and tips, as well as a job board for freelance writers.
 
***
 
In addition to these 14 blogs, I always recommend Why Go Italy to my friends and family members who are planning trips to the bel paese and of course, my Travel Tip Tuesday counterpart, My Melange.
 
What are some of your favorite travel blogs? Please share them in the comments
 
Until next time … Buon Viaggio!
 
** Update: I was remiss in forgetting to link to all of my favorite Italy bloggers-they are a wealth of information on the bel paese and I should have known better than to take them granted … hope they’ll forgive me! **