Ronald Balzan
He/Him
Based in London, England, and Cap Ferret, France
Trip budgets start at $500/night
Ronald Balzan
Ask me about
My Story
A worldly lifelong traveler and former COO of a high-end travel management and publishing company. Constantly in search of value and soul because they can make trips memorable and the ordinary extraordinary.
My Travel Style
In general, I’m a free and independent traveler (or “FIT”). I prefer to be in control of my days rather than stick to someone else’s schedule. When visiting Namibia or Chile, for instance, my partner and I will rent a car and hit the road. Our itineraries planned by me, of course! We rely on guides only when necessary, like on safari or gorilla trekking.
I’m also a worldly, lifelong traveler and the former COO of a high-end travel management and publishing company constantly in search of value and soul as they can make trips memorable and the ordinary, extraordinary. With high standards and an eye for detail, I search for them in everything I do, wherever that may be.
And where I find exceptional value and soul, they are always the places I remember most. I long for, daydream about and often revisit them. For instance, I’ve been staying at the same small hotel in Capri annually for almost 20 years. They are also one of the reasons I love Cap Ferret, France, where we live part of the year.
Originally from Wisconsin, I spent 15 years in New York City after 10 in Dallas. We now live in London and Cap Ferret and have done so for over a decade. So, I know these places exceptionally well. In fact, I know much of Europe well. We go to the Continent regularly and have traveled it extensively. I love Norway (Oslo!), Italy, France, Ireland, Portugal, Finland and Sweden, in particular.
I’ve also seen much of the greater world, from Peru to New Zealand, Chile to Ukraine. I have been to Japan, Hong Kong, Thailand, the Philippines, Taiwan and Argentina often, and I have fallen in love with Namibia too.
Stay connected
My reviews (10)
Stefanie B.
2 months ago
Ron's experience traveling throughout the Amalfi Coast, and Capri in particular, saved us a lot of time and effort in planning our trip. He understood the type of trip we were interested in - active hiking, sightseeing, swimming in the grottos, with luxury accommodations - and was able to book the most amazing hotel for us. He was also really helpful in directing us how to get around the island, which transportation options to use, and which restaurants to go to. He was a great help - and a really nice guy! Thanks, Ron, for a wonderful trip!
Grace G.
3 months ago
Ronald Balzan was very knowledgeable about the Bordeaux area. He noted my travel goals - places I wanted to see, shop, ease of transportation, then presented a list of hotels based on my requirement. He highlighted the benefits of each hotel to help me make an informed choice. Communication with Ron was easy and response was always timely. I can tell he wants to provide the best experience for his clients. I would definitely work with Ron again for my future travel needs.
Steve H.
6 months ago
Ron truly is a world class travel advisor, and working with him fully demonstrates the advantages of utilizing a travel advisor’s services. Since it’s relatively easy for any of us to book our own reservations on websites, I believe the reason to utilize a travel advisor’s services is to get the benefit from their knowledge and insights. For a recent trip, he had a suggestion for us to stay at a location that hadn’t been on my radar at all but ended up being a highlight of our journey. Ron recommended an inn that combined great beauty and service with an incredibly unique history. The breadth and depth of his travel expertise really elevated our vacation and made it so memorable.
Fiona J.
9 months ago
I found Ron Balzan's service before, during and after the trip fantastic. He suggested a range of hotels and at every single one there was some extra benefit, whether it was getting restaurant credit included, so that I could enjoy the spectacular restaurant, or a room upgrade (I ended up with a stunning view over Nagoya Park at the Tower Hotel), or a delicious welcoming treat waiting in my room (Westin Miyako). Ron's attention to detail meant that when the Tower Hotel requested some information in advance (for example my breakfast preference) he dealt with all of that, and dealt with other enquiries so that my stays at all the hotels were smooth and effortless. One of the most useful things that Ron did, which demonstrated a genuine care for how my trip went, was how he sourced and sent me articles about aspects of my trip, for example an article about Ghibli Park, which really helped me prepare for my visit there. It was reassuring to know that he confirmed all the hotels and room details before I arrived - not only confirming with the hotels, but also providing me with a detailed schedule so I had everything in one place. His advice and support right from the moment I asked him about Japan, were invaluable. The superb Tower Hotel is a fine example of the kind of hidden gem he can find. I would recommend him 100% and can't wait to plan my next trip with his ideas and enthusiasm to guide me.
Colleen Z.
10 months ago
Ron did an excellent job in finding this hotel! My original plan was to stay a couple nights. He came back with hotel recommendations for that plan, but also suggested staying at the Hotel das Cataratas for one night for the same price, but a 300% better experience. He recommended flying into Iguazu on an early morning flight, and flying out on a late afternoon flight, allowing me to fully experience the falls and the hotel over one night. It was a fantastic recommendation and can't imagine doing it differently! I can't recommend Ron enough!!
Stefanie B.
2 months ago
Ron's experience traveling throughout the Amalfi Coast, and Capri in particular, saved us a lot of time and effort in planning our trip. He understood the type of trip we were interested in - active hiking, sightseeing, swimming in the grottos, with luxury accommodations - and was able to book the most amazing hotel for us. He was also really helpful in directing us how to get around the island, which transportation options to use, and which restaurants to go to. He was a great help - and a really nice guy! Thanks, Ron, for a wonderful trip!
Grace G.
3 months ago
Ronald Balzan was very knowledgeable about the Bordeaux area. He noted my travel goals - places I wanted to see, shop, ease of transportation, then presented a list of hotels based on my requirement. He highlighted the benefits of each hotel to help me make an informed choice. Communication with Ron was easy and response was always timely. I can tell he wants to provide the best experience for his clients. I would definitely work with Ron again for my future travel needs.
Steve H.
6 months ago
Ron truly is a world class travel advisor, and working with him fully demonstrates the advantages of utilizing a travel advisor’s services. Since it’s relatively easy for any of us to book our own reservations on websites, I believe the reason to utilize a travel advisor’s services is to get the benefit from their knowledge and insights. For a recent trip, he had a suggestion for us to stay at a location that hadn’t been on my radar at all but ended up being a highlight of our journey. Ron recommended an inn that combined great beauty and service with an incredibly unique history. The breadth and depth of his travel expertise really elevated our vacation and made it so memorable.
Fiona J.
9 months ago
I found Ron Balzan's service before, during and after the trip fantastic. He suggested a range of hotels and at every single one there was some extra benefit, whether it was getting restaurant credit included, so that I could enjoy the spectacular restaurant, or a room upgrade (I ended up with a stunning view over Nagoya Park at the Tower Hotel), or a delicious welcoming treat waiting in my room (Westin Miyako). Ron's attention to detail meant that when the Tower Hotel requested some information in advance (for example my breakfast preference) he dealt with all of that, and dealt with other enquiries so that my stays at all the hotels were smooth and effortless. One of the most useful things that Ron did, which demonstrated a genuine care for how my trip went, was how he sourced and sent me articles about aspects of my trip, for example an article about Ghibli Park, which really helped me prepare for my visit there. It was reassuring to know that he confirmed all the hotels and room details before I arrived - not only confirming with the hotels, but also providing me with a detailed schedule so I had everything in one place. His advice and support right from the moment I asked him about Japan, were invaluable. The superb Tower Hotel is a fine example of the kind of hidden gem he can find. I would recommend him 100% and can't wait to plan my next trip with his ideas and enthusiasm to guide me.
My travel ideas (3)
Reid’s Palace, Funchal, Madeira
In early March of 2024, my partner and I stayed at the legendary Reid’s Palace, a Belmond hotel perched on a seaside clifftop in Funchal, Madeira. Opened in 1891, the hotel’s age combined with the care it receives and its exceptional service create a cozy, comfortable atmosphere. At every level, the staff is outstanding — that’s harder and harder to find these days, so when I find it, I make certain to recognize and appreciate it. We are already planning our return to Reid’s and Madeira, and I’m highly recommending it to my clients.
Reid’s Palace, Funchal, Madeira
In early March of 2024, my partner and I stayed at the legendary Reid’s Palace, a Belmond hotel perched on a seaside clifftop in Funchal, Madeira. Opened in 1891, the hotel’s age combined with the care it receives and its exceptional service create a cozy, comfortable atmosphere. At every level, the staff is outstanding — that’s harder and harder to find these days, so when I find it, I make certain to recognize and appreciate it. We are already planning our return to Reid’s and Madeira, and I’m highly recommending it to my clients.
Capri: How to Do It Right
Capri is legendary for its beauty, glamor and, sometimes, scandal, but if you don’t do the island right, you could easily fail to see them. Rest assured, however, they are still there. I have been going to Capri annually for nearly 20 years. Like most places, Capri has changed, but my love for it remains. And if you understand the rhythm of the island, where to go and how to spend your days, odds are you will fall in love with it, too.
Capri: How to Do It Right
Capri is legendary for its beauty, glamor and, sometimes, scandal, but if you don’t do the island right, you could easily fail to see them. Rest assured, however, they are still there. I have been going to Capri annually for nearly 20 years. Like most places, Capri has changed, but my love for it remains. And if you understand the rhythm of the island, where to go and how to spend your days, odds are you will fall in love with it, too.
Venice in January: Magical and Perhaps the Best Time to Visit
Venice is a place like no other. But with its narrow streets, it doesn’t take many people to make the place feel overrun. Add some heat and humidity, and Venice can be downright unpleasant. In January, however, after the holiday crowds have left, Venice’s true magic and beauty are revealed. As more and more people discover the pleasure and wisdom of a January visit, it will still be busy enough, but it will feel more like your own, too. The temperatures are perfect for walking, which is the only way to really explore the city, and the sun often shines. We visit every January, and most days we’re able to have lunch in the sun canal side. Visit Venice in January and discover perhaps the best Venice for yourself.
Venice in January: Magical and Perhaps the Best Time to Visit
Venice is a place like no other. But with its narrow streets, it doesn’t take many people to make the place feel overrun. Add some heat and humidity, and Venice can be downright unpleasant. In January, however, after the holiday crowds have left, Venice’s true magic and beauty are revealed. As more and more people discover the pleasure and wisdom of a January visit, it will still be busy enough, but it will feel more like your own, too. The temperatures are perfect for walking, which is the only way to really explore the city, and the sun often shines. We visit every January, and most days we’re able to have lunch in the sun canal side. Visit Venice in January and discover perhaps the best Venice for yourself.
Reid’s Palace, Funchal, Madeira
In early March of 2024, my partner and I stayed at the legendary Reid’s Palace, a Belmond hotel perched on a seaside clifftop in Funchal, Madeira. Opened in 1891, the hotel’s age combined with the care it receives and its exceptional service create a cozy, comfortable atmosphere. At every level, the staff is outstanding — that’s harder and harder to find these days, so when I find it, I make certain to recognize and appreciate it. We are already planning our return to Reid’s and Madeira, and I’m highly recommending it to my clients.
Reid’s Palace, Funchal, Madeira
In early March of 2024, my partner and I stayed at the legendary Reid’s Palace, a Belmond hotel perched on a seaside clifftop in Funchal, Madeira. Opened in 1891, the hotel’s age combined with the care it receives and its exceptional service create a cozy, comfortable atmosphere. At every level, the staff is outstanding — that’s harder and harder to find these days, so when I find it, I make certain to recognize and appreciate it. We are already planning our return to Reid’s and Madeira, and I’m highly recommending it to my clients.
Capri: How to Do It Right
Capri is legendary for its beauty, glamor and, sometimes, scandal, but if you don’t do the island right, you could easily fail to see them. Rest assured, however, they are still there. I have been going to Capri annually for nearly 20 years. Like most places, Capri has changed, but my love for it remains. And if you understand the rhythm of the island, where to go and how to spend your days, odds are you will fall in love with it, too.
Capri: How to Do It Right
Capri is legendary for its beauty, glamor and, sometimes, scandal, but if you don’t do the island right, you could easily fail to see them. Rest assured, however, they are still there. I have been going to Capri annually for nearly 20 years. Like most places, Capri has changed, but my love for it remains. And if you understand the rhythm of the island, where to go and how to spend your days, odds are you will fall in love with it, too.
Venice in January: Magical and Perhaps the Best Time to Visit
Venice is a place like no other. But with its narrow streets, it doesn’t take many people to make the place feel overrun. Add some heat and humidity, and Venice can be downright unpleasant. In January, however, after the holiday crowds have left, Venice’s true magic and beauty are revealed. As more and more people discover the pleasure and wisdom of a January visit, it will still be busy enough, but it will feel more like your own, too. The temperatures are perfect for walking, which is the only way to really explore the city, and the sun often shines. We visit every January, and most days we’re able to have lunch in the sun canal side. Visit Venice in January and discover perhaps the best Venice for yourself.
Venice in January: Magical and Perhaps the Best Time to Visit
Venice is a place like no other. But with its narrow streets, it doesn’t take many people to make the place feel overrun. Add some heat and humidity, and Venice can be downright unpleasant. In January, however, after the holiday crowds have left, Venice’s true magic and beauty are revealed. As more and more people discover the pleasure and wisdom of a January visit, it will still be busy enough, but it will feel more like your own, too. The temperatures are perfect for walking, which is the only way to really explore the city, and the sun often shines. We visit every January, and most days we’re able to have lunch in the sun canal side. Visit Venice in January and discover perhaps the best Venice for yourself.
My travel photos
