Beach Destination: Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

This is a sponsored post.

Ever since my first trip to the Middle East 4 year ago I've wanted to go back and visit, Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt. I find the contrast of crystal blue water on white sandy beaches against the vast desert landscape so beautiful and unique. I've also always wanted to dive the famous coral reef of the Red Sea, but first I guess I'd need to learn to dive before attempting this, lol, so in the meantime I'll make due with just snorkeling. How amazing would it be to swim in the second largest reef in the world among hundreds if not thousands of rare tropical fish, colorful coral, and exotic underwater sea life?

The Best of Napa Valley : Castello di Amorosa

Castello di Amorosa or Castle of Love is a definite must-do in Napa Valley. We planned only 1 hour there but I tell ya', we time warped to medieval Tuscany and stumbled out in a (sober) stupor 4.5 hours later. What a dreamy place! It may be California wine country but depending on which winery you're in, you could very well be in a chateau in France or a vineyard in Italy. I actually purchased my first wine (don't like liquor remember? so much for that.) – Fantasia, a delicious & sweet partially fermented rosé that I happily packaged in a new vintage-style leather wine case from the winery boutique.

For more on Napa Valley visit my posts on , Vineyards & Chateaus, Taste of Napa and Wine Country.