- The Expert's Guild TRAVEL JOURNAL
- Posts
- What Venus de Milo Left Behind (And Why You Should Go Get It)
What Venus de Milo Left Behind (And Why You Should Go Get It)
4 Days in Milos: The Island That Whispered to Venus

In Partnership With:
Yesterday, April 8th, but over two centuries ago, a humble farmer on the Greek island of Milos unearthed what would become one of the world’s most iconic sculptures:
The Venus de Milo.

Aphrodite of Milos, better known as ‘Venus de Milo’
The Venus de Milo is thought to have been made by the sculptor Alexandros of Antioch in the 2nd century BC.
Although most often held to be a depiction of Aphrodite, the ancient goddess of love, she may also be Amphitrite, the Greek goddess of the sea.
Carved in two main sections in the Hellenistic style, the statue is famous for its missing arms in addition to its beauty.
Armless but never charmless, she’s the embodiment of classical elegance — and a not-so-subtle reminder that true beauty often lies off the beaten path.
Now, in a not-so-Hellenistic style, here are this week's news
Latest Luxury Travel News
⚓ Serenity Sets Sail: Aman Unveils Amangati
Ultra-luxury brand Aman is diving into high-end cruising with its first yacht, Amangati — Sanskrit for “peaceful motion.” Launching in 2027, the 600-foot floating temple will feature just 50 balcony suites, a complete Aman Spa, and the brand’s signature obsession with serenity. Amangati, built in Genoa, Italy, is not your average mega-ship. It’s a wellness sanctuary in motion for the select few who think the world is better viewed through a steam room window.
Finally, a cruise ship where the loudest sound is your own inner peace.

Aman - Amangat
🚂 All Aboard for Roman Elegance: Orient Express Debuts La Minerva
The iconic Orient Express brand has opened its first hotel, La Minerva, in Rome's historic Piazza della Minerva. This meticulously restored 17th-century palazzo offers 93 uniquely designed rooms and suites, blending Art Deco sophistication with modern luxury. Guests can indulge in panoramic city views from the rooftop restaurant, Voliera, and savor cocktails beneath the grand skylight of La Minerva Bar. With its rich history and opulent design, La Minerva promises a stay as timeless as the Eternal City itself. ACCOR
Finally, a Roman holiday where the accommodations rival the city's grandeur.
🏨 The Pierre: A Legacy of Luxury and Glamour
Since its grand opening in 1930, The Pierre has epitomized New York City's elegance, hosting luminaries like Coco Chanel, Audrey Hepburn, and Elizabeth Taylor. This iconic hotel has been the backdrop for historic events, from lavish weddings to cinematic moments like Al Pacino's tango in Scent of a Woman. Now under Taj Hotels' stewardship, The Pierre continues to blend timeless opulence with modern sophistication. THE PIERRE
If these walls could talk, they’d probably request caviar and call you “darling.”
Boutique Mediterranean Cruises Aim to Convert Cruise Skeptics
For those wary of traditional cruising, a new wave of boutique ships is making waves in the Mediterranean this summer. Options include the 381-foot Carinthia VII, offering eight lavish cabins and top-tier amenities, and the culturally immersive Explora II, featuring upscale suites and fine dining. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's Ilma also debuts, blending Michelin-starred cuisine with luxury suites. These vessels promise exclusivity without the crowds, aiming to redefine luxury at sea. NY POST
Who knew downsizing could be so upscale?
'Slow Luxury' Travel Gains Momentum in Italy
In a world that moves faster than ever, true luxury is now found in time, space, and stillness. Italy is embracing this trend with 'Slow Luxury,' prioritizing immersion, authenticity, and intentional living. This approach reshapes high-end travel, offering deeper and more meaningful experiences for discerning travelers. LUXURY TRAVEL MAGAZINE
Because the best way to savor la dolce vita is slowly.
For the “been there, done that, back for the good stuff” kind of traveler…
The Savvy Traveler | Milos, Greece
While the marble gaze of the Venus de Milo now rests in the Louvre, we suggest you turn your own eyes back to Milos — the island of her birth.
Far less crowded than Santorini and Mykonos, yet no less seductive, this Cycladic gem invites the luxury traveler into a world of lunar beaches, hidden coves, and upscale simplicity.
After all, if Venus could choose where to rise again, we’re betting she’d skip the crowds and book a villa here too.
Milos is the island quietly smirking behind the curtain, waiting for those with taste to notice.
So, here's how to do Milos right.
🗓️ Day 1: Arrive & Unwind in Pure Cycladic Charm
Check into Artemis Seaside Resort — a modern sanctuary by the sea in Paliochori. Each suite is an ode to minimalism, with outdoor tubs, private decks, and views that might convince you to cancel all future plans.
Not quite secluded enough? Then Skinopi Lodge is your match — an architectural dream carved into the cliffs, surrounded by nothing but sea, silence, and sunlight. Built sustainably and furnished with art-gallery taste, it’s Milos at its most poetic.
Evening ritual: Head to Utopia Caves Restaurant in Plaka, perched over the Aegean. The restaurant is carved into volcanic rock, lit by lanterns, and offers dishes as dramatic as the view — think octopus carpaccio with fava purée or lamb slow-cooked in clay. Pair with a crisp bottle of Robola and surrender to the sunset.
Optional Arrival Upgrade: Helicopter from Athens direct to Milos. Forty minutes and you’re home.
🛥️ Day 2: Private Catamaran & Hidden Blue Caves
Today is for water. Charter a luxury catamaran with Milos Adventures or go fully bespoke with a private yacht from Sun Yachting Greece. Your captain and chef take you along the island’s southern curve — unreachable by road, but unforgettable by boat.
Stops include:
Kleftiko – dramatic white cliffs and turquoise waters. Once a pirate hideout, now a swimming fantasy.
Sykia Cave – an open-roofed sea cave you enter by dinghy. Silence echoes.
Gerakas Beach – accessible only by sea, it’s as if the sand here was sprinkled straight from the moon.
Onboard experience: Enjoy a mezze-style lunch with grilled langoustines, lemon-drenched zucchini, and fresh-baked bread served under the sail. A masseuse can even join the trip if arranged in advance.
Expert’s Tip: Book a two-day sailing and overnight in Poliegos, the uninhabited sister island of Milos — a Robinson Crusoe fantasy with a champagne twist.
Watch a 30 second quick video of Milos by Visit Greece
🏺 Day 3: Villages, Culture & Volcanic Colors
Today, explore inland. Begin in Trypiti, home to early Christian catacombs and the ancient theater where Venus (Aphrodite) herself might’ve enjoyed a performance. Then continue to Klima, the picture-perfect fishing village with rainbow-colored boat houses (syrmata) still in use today.
Midday indulgence: Lunch at Barriello, a modern Greek bistro in a 200-year-old stone house. Try the sea bass with ouzo foam or the goat cheese ravioli with tomato jam.
Afternoon reset: Return to your villa or suite for some island-inspired stillness. If you're staying at Skinopi Lodge, request an in-room massage or arrange for a private yoga session overlooking the sea. Their therapists come to you, offering reiki, deep-tissue massage, or crystal facials with volcanic elements.
Sunset idea: Hike or drive to Plaka Castle. Bring wine. Breathe deeply.
🌊 Day 4: A Farewell Through Sand & Seafood
The last day is for surrender. No plans, just sensations.
Start at Sarakiniko — the iconic white rock beach that feels like a lunar dreamscape. Then hop to Firopotamos, where a tiny church hugs the cliffs and swimmers float in the calm bay. End at Firiplaka, the long stretch of beach hugged by red cliffs and wildflowers.
Final meal: Book ahead for O! Hamos! – a cult favorite that takes Greek farm-to-table seriously. The lamb in lemon sauce is unforgettable, and the desserts come with love letters from the family that owns it.
Departure with Drama: Skip the ferry. Take a seaplane back to Athens. It lands on water, and your heart might too.
In partnership with dos:deux
You want to start your own newsletter — personal or business — but…
You don’t have the time, and you’re not sure how to structure it. Honestly? You don’t even like writing. That’s exactly why I worked with dos:deux to create The Expert’s Guild Journal. They helped me shape the content, find the right voice, and, most importantly, keep it going. Now, it’s one of the best things I do each week.
👉🏼 dos:deux
April will be a very busy month on the events front.
🌍 Global Events to Keep on Your Radar
Sports
⛳ The Masters Tournament
📍 Augusta National Golf Club, USA | 🗓️ April 10–13, 2025
Golf's most iconic tournament returns to Augusta. Expect lush greens, dramatic putts, and a new owner for that coveted green jacket.
⚽ UEFA Champions League Quarterfinals
📍 Various Cities, Europe | 🗓️ April 8–9 & 15–16, 2025
Europe's top football clubs clash in the quarterfinals, vying for a spot in the prestigious semifinals. Matches to watch include Arsenal vs. Real Madrid and Bayern Munich vs. Inter Milan.
🏎️ Bahrain Grand Prix 📍 Sakhir, Bahrain | 🗓️ April 11-13, 2025 Formula 1 heads to the desert as Bahrain’s night race dazzles fans with sunset skies, strategic pit stops, and blistering speed.
Music & Entertainment
🎡 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival (Weekend 2)
📍 Indio, California, USA | 🗓️ April 18–20, 2025
The desert's premier festival continues with its second weekend, featuring an eclectic mix of artists, avant-garde art installations, and a fashion scene that's as hot as the midday sun.
🎷 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
📍 New Orleans, Louisiana, USA | 🗓️ April 24–May 4, 2025
A celebration of the Big Easy's rich musical heritage, this festival boasts performances from jazz legends and contemporary acts alike, alongside delectable local cuisine.
🎵 The Eagles at The Sphere 📍 Las Vegas, Nevada, USA | 🗓️ April 1–15, 2025 (select dates) The legends take over the most futuristic venue on Earth. With epic visuals and timeless hits, this Vegas residency is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of encore.
Cultural Events & Celebrations
🎨 Foire du Trône
📍 Paris, France | 🗓️ April 1–Ongoing
Europe's oldest funfair continues to enchant visitors with its blend of traditional rides, games, and gastronomic delights. A Parisian springtime staple.
🌸 National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade
📍 Washington, D.C., USA | 🗓️ April 12, 2025
A grand procession celebrating the blooming of cherry blossoms, featuring elaborate floats, marching bands, and performers from around the world.
Why, I’d like nothing better than to achieve some bold adventure worthy of our trip.
Aristophanes
Did you enjoyed this week Newsletter? |
💌 Join 30,000+ Travel Lovers Who Know Where to Go Next
The Expert’s Guild Travel Journal is your weekly dose of destination inspiration, curated hotel picks, hidden gems, and insider intel — read by over 30,000 savvy travelers around the world.
Already on board? Share the love. Forward this edition to a friend or family member who appreciates a life well-traveled.
Join us here:

Reply