Monica Barbuceanu
She/Her
Based in Europe
English, Italian, French, Romanian
Monica Barbuceanu
Ask me about
My Story
A passionate traveler seeking out destinations that offer a balanced fusion between luxury and authenticity. Also a documented foodie.
Travel Style
After traveling for many years, planning a lot of complicated vacations and being a guest of some of the most outstanding properties around the world, as I am a little obsessed with good hotels, I became a travel advisor out of passion and I truly understand the guest’s point of view. With my expertise, I can not only help you book, but truly advise you and tailor your best itinerary at the best possible rates. I like to call it “smart booking". My travel style… I would say I value both comfort and authenticity, and I know how to pick those places where little touches make a big difference. Not just a traveler, but a dedicated foodie who believes in indulging in culinary experiences, from the delicate creations of Michelin-starred chefs to the strong flavours of local eateries, I believe that food is a gateway to understanding a culture. So I am also happy to help you plan your “culinary“ itinerary and book restaurants.
Stay connected
Reviews (34)
Ana Maria D.
20 days ago
It was very smooth, very professional, defenetly will repeat the experience
Alina R.
22 days ago
Monica is our forever saviour. We always decide to go places last minute (as it was in this case - contacted her on the 1st of January in need of 2 connecting rooms starting from the 2nd of January in a very crowded period - SHE - OBVIOUSLY - DELIVERED!) and she always has an amazing recommendation with great deals. She’s quick and thorough. Highly recommending her.
Cristina C.
23 days ago
Monica designed the perfect itinerary for my specific interest. I didn't have to worry about a single detail because everything was handled professionally. The hotel recommendations were spot on and suited my style perfectly. I highly recommend Monica to anyone looking for a personalized travel experience.
Vlad D.
a month ago
Monica is always quick in replying to our requests and has the best recommendations. She has also secured us a guaranteed upgrade at time of booking, and even a double upgrade waited for us at check in, along with the complimentary impressive breakfast. She has also organised a delicious cake and a thoughtful note for our anniversary. Already booked the next trip with her
Mioara S.
a month ago
Monica recommended the hotel, she is always thoughtful and finds the best deals, as well as places that suite our taste. We have received a guaranteed upgrade at time of booking and complimentary breakfast. She has also arranged a surprise in the room, including a delicious cake, for our daughter’s birthday, we have really appreciated it. Looking forward to book our next trip with her!
Ana Maria D.
20 days ago
It was very smooth, very professional, defenetly will repeat the experience
Alina R.
22 days ago
Monica is our forever saviour. We always decide to go places last minute (as it was in this case - contacted her on the 1st of January in need of 2 connecting rooms starting from the 2nd of January in a very crowded period - SHE - OBVIOUSLY - DELIVERED!) and she always has an amazing recommendation with great deals. She’s quick and thorough. Highly recommending her.
Cristina C.
23 days ago
Monica designed the perfect itinerary for my specific interest. I didn't have to worry about a single detail because everything was handled professionally. The hotel recommendations were spot on and suited my style perfectly. I highly recommend Monica to anyone looking for a personalized travel experience.
Vlad D.
a month ago
Monica is always quick in replying to our requests and has the best recommendations. She has also secured us a guaranteed upgrade at time of booking, and even a double upgrade waited for us at check in, along with the complimentary impressive breakfast. She has also organised a delicious cake and a thoughtful note for our anniversary. Already booked the next trip with her
Travel ideas (4)
Puglia: Still a Hidden Gem
Known as “the heel” of the boot, Puglia is one of the most beautiful and authentic parts of Italy, and at the same time one of the most underrated destinations in Europe. It is surrounded both by the Ionian and Adriatic Sea, with amazing blue waters. Puglia has some of the best food in Italy—think fresh-made pasta and burrata prepared under your eyes or the local catch of the day, raw or perfectly cooked and drizzled with local olive oil. But most of all, the warm and authentic people and experiences made me return three years in a row. Being out of the spotlight it deserves, of course, has its perks—making it more affordable—so let’s enjoy it before the tourists invade!
Puglia: Still a Hidden Gem
Known as “the heel” of the boot, Puglia is one of the most beautiful and authentic parts of Italy, and at the same time one of the most underrated destinations in Europe. It is surrounded both by the Ionian and Adriatic Sea, with amazing blue waters. Puglia has some of the best food in Italy—think fresh-made pasta and burrata prepared under your eyes or the local catch of the day, raw or perfectly cooked and drizzled with local olive oil. But most of all, the warm and authentic people and experiences made me return three years in a row. Being out of the spotlight it deserves, of course, has its perks—making it more affordable—so let’s enjoy it before the tourists invade!
Dubai: The Place Where West Meets Middle East
I first traveled to Dubai in 2007 when you were still given a hard look when wearing not-too short shorts at the mall. I returned from time to time for October break. Then the pandemic came and I got to spend two whole winters there as a “luxury refugee.” I am still choosing Dubai for the April or the October break. So, I’ve experienced many hotels in different areas of the city and different seasons. There are many good restaurants and activities, with and without the kids, both like a tourist and like a local. I’ve seen Dubai changing over the years as the expat community has increased to 88 percent, transforming it into the most modern and open city in the Middle East.
Dubai: The Place Where West Meets Middle East
I first traveled to Dubai in 2007 when you were still given a hard look when wearing not-too short shorts at the mall. I returned from time to time for October break. Then the pandemic came and I got to spend two whole winters there as a “luxury refugee.” I am still choosing Dubai for the April or the October break. So, I’ve experienced many hotels in different areas of the city and different seasons. There are many good restaurants and activities, with and without the kids, both like a tourist and like a local. I’ve seen Dubai changing over the years as the expat community has increased to 88 percent, transforming it into the most modern and open city in the Middle East.
When in Rome: A Foodie's Guide
Who doesn't love Rome? It's romantic, it's practically an open-air museum, you're walking on history and there is some amazing pasta. I will cover some of the must-sees but, as you already guessed, I'll focus more on food. As one might expect, you can eat good pasta anywhere, but if you want great pasta you need some research. Even the most recommended restaurants have some hit dishes, while others might be a complete miss.
When in Rome: A Foodie's Guide
Who doesn't love Rome? It's romantic, it's practically an open-air museum, you're walking on history and there is some amazing pasta. I will cover some of the must-sees but, as you already guessed, I'll focus more on food. As one might expect, you can eat good pasta anywhere, but if you want great pasta you need some research. Even the most recommended restaurants have some hit dishes, while others might be a complete miss.
Phuket: More Than a Beach Destination, A Foodie’s Paradise
If you go to Phuket once, most likely you’ll return again and again. I’ve been traveling to Phuket for many years now, seeing it evolving and becoming a perfect winter destination for me and my family that makes me return from time to time, no matter the long way.
It’s the people, their culture, the vibe, the weather, the beautiful sea and sand, but what makes Phuket unique compared to other islands, is the amazing food.
Phuket: More Than a Beach Destination, A Foodie’s Paradise
If you go to Phuket once, most likely you’ll return again and again. I’ve been traveling to Phuket for many years now, seeing it evolving and becoming a perfect winter destination for me and my family that makes me return from time to time, no matter the long way.
It’s the people, their culture, the vibe, the weather, the beautiful sea and sand, but what makes Phuket unique compared to other islands, is the amazing food.
Puglia: Still a Hidden Gem
Known as “the heel” of the boot, Puglia is one of the most beautiful and authentic parts of Italy, and at the same time one of the most underrated destinations in Europe. It is surrounded both by the Ionian and Adriatic Sea, with amazing blue waters. Puglia has some of the best food in Italy—think fresh-made pasta and burrata prepared under your eyes or the local catch of the day, raw or perfectly cooked and drizzled with local olive oil. But most of all, the warm and authentic people and experiences made me return three years in a row. Being out of the spotlight it deserves, of course, has its perks—making it more affordable—so let’s enjoy it before the tourists invade!
Puglia: Still a Hidden Gem
Known as “the heel” of the boot, Puglia is one of the most beautiful and authentic parts of Italy, and at the same time one of the most underrated destinations in Europe. It is surrounded both by the Ionian and Adriatic Sea, with amazing blue waters. Puglia has some of the best food in Italy—think fresh-made pasta and burrata prepared under your eyes or the local catch of the day, raw or perfectly cooked and drizzled with local olive oil. But most of all, the warm and authentic people and experiences made me return three years in a row. Being out of the spotlight it deserves, of course, has its perks—making it more affordable—so let’s enjoy it before the tourists invade!
Dubai: The Place Where West Meets Middle East
I first traveled to Dubai in 2007 when you were still given a hard look when wearing not-too short shorts at the mall. I returned from time to time for October break. Then the pandemic came and I got to spend two whole winters there as a “luxury refugee.” I am still choosing Dubai for the April or the October break. So, I’ve experienced many hotels in different areas of the city and different seasons. There are many good restaurants and activities, with and without the kids, both like a tourist and like a local. I’ve seen Dubai changing over the years as the expat community has increased to 88 percent, transforming it into the most modern and open city in the Middle East.
Dubai: The Place Where West Meets Middle East
I first traveled to Dubai in 2007 when you were still given a hard look when wearing not-too short shorts at the mall. I returned from time to time for October break. Then the pandemic came and I got to spend two whole winters there as a “luxury refugee.” I am still choosing Dubai for the April or the October break. So, I’ve experienced many hotels in different areas of the city and different seasons. There are many good restaurants and activities, with and without the kids, both like a tourist and like a local. I’ve seen Dubai changing over the years as the expat community has increased to 88 percent, transforming it into the most modern and open city in the Middle East.
When in Rome: A Foodie's Guide
Who doesn't love Rome? It's romantic, it's practically an open-air museum, you're walking on history and there is some amazing pasta. I will cover some of the must-sees but, as you already guessed, I'll focus more on food. As one might expect, you can eat good pasta anywhere, but if you want great pasta you need some research. Even the most recommended restaurants have some hit dishes, while others might be a complete miss.
When in Rome: A Foodie's Guide
Who doesn't love Rome? It's romantic, it's practically an open-air museum, you're walking on history and there is some amazing pasta. I will cover some of the must-sees but, as you already guessed, I'll focus more on food. As one might expect, you can eat good pasta anywhere, but if you want great pasta you need some research. Even the most recommended restaurants have some hit dishes, while others might be a complete miss.
Travel photos
