Irene S. Levine

Pleasantville

Contributor at Forbes

Journalist, award-winning travel writer, blogger, brand ambassador; SATW, IFWTWA; Publisher multi-authored magazine for the over-50 luxury traveler

Articles

‘Italy On Madison,’ A Pop-Up Showcase Of Italian Style In New York

5 days ago | forbes.com | Irene S. Levine

The Italian Trade Agency (ITA) is inviting the public to experience authentic Italian lifestyle and culture at its Madison Avenue townhouse in New York City. For the first time, the much-anticipated third edition of Italy on Madison will take place at the beautiful ITA headquarters. On Wednesday, May 14th and Thursday, May 15th, 2025, more than 90 Italian brands—spanning fashion, design, beauty and wellness, food, and wine—will offer visitors a unique, immersive experience akin to a trip to Italy.
Travel Gifts for Mom: Unique Ideas for Mother's Day 2025

1 week ago | moretimetotravel.com | Irene S. Levine

Mother’s Day is a special time to honor the women in our lives. If moms, aunts, sisters, daughters, nieces or other friends around you have a serious case of wanderlust, finding a gift that speaks to their love of travel is key. These gifts are easy to pack, fun to wear or use, and will make her next trip more enjoyable. They make perfect Mother’s Day gifts, some of which I’ve gotten or given to others.
New One&Only Resort And Residences Planned For The Hudson Valley

2 weeks ago | moretimetotravel.com | Irene S. Levine

The choice of site announced for the new Hudson Valley One&Only resort with branded residences isn’t surprising, but it’s still exciting. The region is best known for its natural beauty, especially its stunning landscapes that change with the seasons and its proximity to New York City. For that reason, wealthy families built large estates here during the Gilded Age.
Even In Dubai, NAHATÉ Is An Over-The-Top Dining And Entertainment Spot

2 weeks ago | forbes.com | Irene S. Levine

In November 2024, co-founders Sam Flerentsev and Jenya Makeevva opened Nahate. This family-run fine dining restaurant in Dubai, with a cocktail bar, nightclub and private membership club, may be unrivaled in its opulence. Dubai is one of the in the world, attracting both leisure and business international travelers from across the globe.
Even In Dubai, NAHATÉ Is An Over-The-Top Dining And Entertainment Spot

2 weeks ago | flipboard.com | Irene S. Levine

Casumo is one of the most popular casinos around Ireland and is a major brand in the country’s iGaming scene. It’s a casino I’ve been eager to test …
Leap of Faith: Friend Dumped Over Religious Differences - The Friendship Blog

2 weeks ago | thefriendshipblog.com | Irene S. Levine

When a friend is dumped over religious differences, it may actually be more than that. QUESTIONDear Irene,I feel so hurt after being dumped by my friend of ten years. We met at the library when our children were two years old and had our second children together months apart. Two years ago she decided to go back and follow her Jewish religion. I am Christian and that is why she dumped me. We no longer go out as families together with our husbands and children.
CNN’s New ‘My Happy Place’ Travel Series Follows Celebrities On Nostalgic Journeys

2 weeks ago | forbes.com | Irene S. Levine

CNN will premiere a new, original six-part travel series, My Happy Place, on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at 10 pm ET/PT on CNN. The shows will also air on CNN International. Have you ever wondered:If offered the opportunity to travel anywhere in the world, where would YOU choose to go? That was the question CNN producers posed to the six celebrity guest hosts of My Happy Place.
Mother’s Day Gift Guide 2025: Best Brunches In Luxury NYC Hotels

3 weeks ago | forbes.com | Irene S. Levine

Mother's Day is one of the busiest days of the year for restaurants, as it offers families an opportunity to treat their moms to a special meal and a relaxing day away from the kitchen. To pamper moms and create lasting memories, many luxury hotels in New York City offer special cocktails, menus, and add-ons in spectacular settings. These meals are eminently giftable; all you need to do is make reservations online.
Mah Jongg: An Easy Way To Make Friends While Traveling

4 weeks ago | moretimetotravel.com | Irene S. Levine

I remember my mother having weekly Mah Jongg games that rotated among the players’ homes. When it was her turn to host, she put out lots of yummy snacks, and I watched the women laughing and intermittently yelling, “Mah Jongg.” I went back to my room to finish reading a Nancy Drew mystery. They say that we often turn into our mothers when we reach a certain age, which may have happened to me.
Best Liqueurs For Extraordinary Mother’s Day Cocktails

4 weeks ago | forbes.com | Irene S. Levine

A special cocktail made with a French or Italian liqueur can make any Mother's Day gathering more festive, whether you plan to meet for brunch, lunch, dinner, or just spend time together. The Aperol Spritz, a cocktail made with Aperol liqueur, Prosecco, and sparkling water, is among the most popular cocktails worldwide. However, unique cocktails can be made with other liqueurs to add spark to her special day.