Traveler: Roopal Patel – Fashion Consultant
What is your most unforgettable escape? A trip to Panarea in the Aeolian islands last summer.
What was the purpose of your travel? To celebrate my friend Elizabeth von der Goltz’s birthday!
With how many people did you travel? We were a group of 9 friends in total. This group always travels together. We have been to Punta Del Este, Phuket, Costa Rica, Saint Barths together. We all travel really well together!
Where did you stay? The lovely Hotel Raya.
What did (do) you most like about the trip? I loved the vibe of the island. Super easy and mellow. It has a real boho feeling to it. It is still very rustic and natural.
Could you share an unforgettable memory about the trip? We would go by boat to explore some of the neighboring islands. One night we visited Stromboli and saw the volcano erupting. It was pitch black on the boat. All you saw was the red hot lava coming out of the volcano and twinkle of the stars. It was magical.
Your most surprising find during the trip? La Canna! It is a volcanic formation that stands upright in the middle of the ocean! We docked our boat and went paddle boarding around it.
Favorite restaurant(s) or food you have tried during your trip? The fresh crudo fish and grilled fish at Da Adelina was delicious. The fish was caught that morning! Everything is very fresh. We went back twice that week.
What is the must tries of the city? The nightlife! Start the evening off with drinks at the Bar Raya, then head to the Bushi Sushi bar which becomes a lounge at night. End the night dancing under the starts at the Hotel Raya Discotecque.
Would you go back? In a second! I would love to return and stay a bit longer this time.
Could you list a few of your favorite finds you came back with? These can be anything from traditional finds to airport finds to hotel creams! I picked up a pair of bespoke sandals that were custom made for me in one day at Moda Mare. They take your measurements and let you select what style you would like. I chose a classic lace up sandal in silver metallic leather.
Any tips that might be useful to know before going there? Getting to Panarea is not easy but worth it once you get to the island. You must schedule and coordinate with the ferry. It was a 5 hour boat ride from Naples. Plan ahead for sure.
Next stop you would like to visit? Patmos, Greece.
Roopal Patel
Fashion Consultant
