French lifestyle brand Lalique is teaming up with The Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills to host a high-end experience involving wine flights and savory sweets.

An immersive crossover activation between the brand and hospitality leader brings together Lalique’s crystal craftsmanship, aged options from French winery Vignobles Silvio Denz and the culinary expertise of the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills team. Accepting reservations through the end of October 2023, the limited-time program prominently features Lalique products, giving guests the opportunity to indulge in gourmet chocolates meticulously paired by the partners.

“We’re pleased to continue our work with the team at Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills and see this project come to fruition,” said James Mun, president and CEO of Lalique North America, in a statement.

“The partnership exemplifies Lalique’s extensive knowledge and experience within the hospitality space, and we’re excited to host admirers of the brand, old and new, to immerse themselves in the world of Lalique.”

International indulgence

Designed by interior stylist Lawren Howell and Los Angeles’ ISA ISA floral studio, The Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills has transformed its grounds to house the event

Inspired by the Bordeaux region of France, the space is adorned with Lalique’s pieces, including Cactus tables, Languedoc vases and Champs-Elysées bowls, embracing elegance against a backdrop of white oak flooring and chinoiserie motifs.

Stationed within the five-star hotel’s Lobby Lounge, the endeavor aims to provide an unmatched experience for the discerning clientele that seek a fusion of refined flavors and opulent surroundings.

A curated arrangement of glasses from the crystal label’s “100 Points Collection,” procured alongside world-renowned wine critic James Suckling, allows guests to appreciate the full profile and body of reds, whites and rosés.

Served in Lalique’s 100 Points universal glass, Maisons Roses de Lafaurie 2021 joins a strawberry chocolate ganache made with a roséwine jelly filling, while a duo of Château Péby-Faugères 2012 served in Lalique’s 100 Points Bordeaux glass is paired with a 66 percent dark chocolate and raspberry ganache made with a red wine jelly filling.

Lastly, visitors can sip on Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey 2012, made available in Lalique’s 100 Points Champagne glass and paired with a white chocolate ganache with a yuzu infusion to create a refreshing essence and a white wine jelly filling.

Culinary director Steve Benjamin and executive pastry chef Mathias Boirie, who helm the award-winning Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills team, planned the pop-up in collaboration with the Vignobles Silvio Denz of Saint-Émilion, France — the private vineyard is owned by the Lalique Group.

At its core, the pairing-centric edition embodies a tried-and-true promotional tactic for the crystal pioneer, frequently and strategically engaging fans of top-tier lodgings to boost its product line (see story).

Lalique & Vignobles Silvio Denz Wine and Chocolate Tasting Room reservations can be made by email, at EspeletteBevHills@waldorfastoria.com, or by phone, at 310-860-4020.

“Our team is excited to unveil this stunning new space, paired with such a delectable tasting program,” said Mr. Benjamin, in a statement.

“Hotel guests and locals alike will enjoy French wines perfectly paired with sweet treats freshly prepared by our world-class pastry team,” he said. “There is a natural synergy as we continue building upon our longstanding partnership with Lalique, which can be seen in various places throughout the hotel including the main entrance door handles and crystal paneling in the Lobby Lounge Bar.”

This article originally appeared on LuxuryDaily.com.

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Egypt has always fascinated adventurous travelers looking to peer into the country’s ancient history, and a cruise down the Nile River is one of the best ways to step back to the time of the pharaohs.

Steamer ships have long ferried curious passengers along the river, stopping to take in the most amazing historic sights of Egypt, such as one of the originals, the 100-year-old Steam Ship Sudan.

“A cruise on board the Steam Ship Sudan is a journey back in time,” said Anne Dumesnil, director, North Africa, Middle East and Central Asia, for Voyageurs du Monde, the travel company that bought and restored the ship in 2000.

“The Steam Ship Sudan takes its passengers to explore Upper Egypt – the trip down between Luxor and Aswan offers both views of pharaonic sites and wild shores,” she said.

Time travel

Considered one of the longest-lasting civilizations in known history, the Egyptian empire began around 3100 B.C.E. and held on until being finally conquered by Alexander the Great in 332 B.C.E. to become part of Macedonia.

Known for its god-like pharaohs, mind-blowing construction of stone pyramids and temples, carved sculptures, treasure- and mummy-filed tombs and hieroglyphs, signs of the ancient desert civilization can be seen all over present-day Egypt, especially along the Nile River.

The lifeblood of the region, the Nile is over 4,100 miles long, its two branches flowing north through Sudan and Ethiopia, entering Egypt before emptying into the Mediterranean Sea near Cairo. 

In the late-19^th century C.E., tourists began flocking to Egypt to see the ancient sites along the river on steamer ships such as the Steam Ship Sudan.

Part of British travel empresario Thomas Cook’s Nile fleet, the SS Sudan made its maiden voyage in 1921, just in time for the “golden age” of the Nile River cruise in the ‘20s and ‘30s.

Famed British author Agatha Christie took a ride on the SS Sudan in the ‘30s, even setting her acclaimed murder mystery, Death on the Nile, on a steamer.

The ship was purchased by Voyageurs du Monde at the turn of the following century and carefully restored for new generations to hop aboard.

Luxor to luxe

In the 21^st century, a six-day cruise aboard the SS Sudan passes by numerous historical highlights along with views of modern-day life in Egypt.

“From the upper deck, guests can see the suspended life on the banks: trotting donkeys, children playing in the water, fellahs working the fertile lands,” Ms. Dumesnil said.

“And modern life also: cities, minarets and churches; on the Nile: the ballet of feluccas (traditional sailboats) loaded not only with passengers, but also chicken, sheep or bags of wheat,” she said.

While adventurers can see plenty of ancient sites on board, the ship docks for numerous trips on land to see thousands of years of history.

In Luxor, the Karnak Temple Complex (2000-1700 B.C.E.) and the Temple of Luxor (1400 B.C.E.), as well as the Temple of Seti I in nearby Abydos, are must-sees.

Just outside of Luxor, travelers will explore the Valley of the Pharaohs, where Egypt’s rulers were buried between 1150 and 1069 B.C.E., and the Valley of the Queens, where their wives’ tombs are found.

Further along the Nile are the Temple of Edfu (237 B.C.E.) in Edfu, and the Temple of Philae (690 B.C.E.) in Aswan, where the land of Nubia once began.

While on the SS Sudan, guests will enjoy a luxurious atmosphere in the rooms and suites, elegant restaurant and lounge. Décor includes Egyptian fabrics and crafts side-by-side throwback early-20^th-century furniture and wood paneling.

“Afloat, the Steam Ship Sudan takes over the splendor – lacquered wall paneling, brassware, thick fabrics and oriental carpets adding to the luxury of the slow pace of the landscape drifting past,” Ms. Dumesnil said.

For more about travel in Egypt, read High Road to Cairo in the March 2023 issue of Luxury Portfolio magazine.

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New Zealand is a travel destination that truly packs a punch: breathtaking landscapes and vistas, vine-filled wine country, cities for lovers of the urban, a powerful native culture and welcoming people.

From mountain ranges to crystalline lakes, spa treatments, farm-to-table dining and visits to traditional villages, the island nation offers a trip filled with a bit of everything.

“Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a relaxation aficionado, a visit to New Zealand vows to be a once-in-a-lifetime affair,” said Eden Dawson, business operations, Aroha Luxury New Zealand Tours.

“The blend of stunning landscapes, luxurious accommodations and welcoming locals allows for an ultimate destination for a dream vacation.”

With the seasons

While New Zealand appears smallish on a map, at 1,000 miles long and over 100,000 square miles total, it is larger and more spread out than most realize. With two main – North and South – and about 600 small islands, there is a lot to explore.

“People often underestimate the size of the country,” said Jean-Michel Jefferson, founder, Ahipara Travel. “It takes more than a few days to see.”

With a couple of weeks, visitors can hit much of what the Oceania nation has to offer – and it packs in the sights.

The summer months – January through March – are the most popular time to visit for warmer weather, water sports and beaches.

The spring and fall shoulder seasons are quieter times with blooming flowers and wine harvests, respectively. And winter, while chilly, offers snow-capped mountain peaks and skiing galore.

Natural wonders

No matter the season, New Zealand’s diverse landscapes are the main draw for visitors.

“New Zealand’s beauty is spread throughout the country, from the crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches of Northland to the permanently snowcapped Southern Alps running down the center of the South Island and beyond to the untamed and unexplored rainforests of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Fiordland National Park at the bottom of the South Island,” said Sarah Farag, director, Southern Crossings tours.

The Southern Alps mountain range extends down much of the larger South Island, with pristine rivers flowing through snowy peaks, the tallest of which, Mount Cook, reaches over 12,000 feet.

Ancient temperate rainforest hugs the island’s west coast, flowing spectacularly into Fiordland National Park in the far southwest, where towering waterfalls tumble into the fiords.

The country even has sandy beaches, clear water and hidden coves to explore on the North Island in locations such as the Coromandel Peninsula.

Even more unique sights on the North Island include caves filled with glowing worms in Waitomo and the Rotorua, an area filled with geothermal activity and erupting geysers.

“New Zealand’s landscapes are truly one-of-a-kind and have a certain otherworldly quality that must be seen to be believed,” Ms. Dawson said.

Those landscapes are also home to unique wildlife found nowhere else.

“New Zealand’s isolation from the world and its complete lack of any land-dwelling mammals have meant that its wildlife has evolved to be quite unlike anywhere else on Earth,” Ms. Farag said.

“There’s the weta, an insect that’s heavier than a sparrow and is subject of many-a-Kiwi kid’s nightmare, to the lizard-like tuatara, a spiny living fossil that’s lived for 250 million years,” she said. “But it’s the birdlife that New Zealand is most known for.”

Wine time

A slightly less adventurous way to enjoy New Zealand’s natural beauty is with a glass of wine in-hand.

With several grape-growing regions that stretch along the center and east coasts of both main islands, a wine tour or tasting is never far away.

The most popular is Marlborough, known for its Sauvignon Blanc, but there is also Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah in Hawke’s Bay and Pinot Noir in Central Otago, the southernmost wine-growing region in the world.

“Many vineyards in New Zealand take pride in their sustainable and organic farming practices, which also extend to their food offerings,” Ms. Dawson said.

“At some vineyards, guests can enjoy a private tour of the estate, where you’ll learn about the history and methodology of winemaking,” she said. “Guests will then be treated to a gourmet meal crafted with fresh, regional ingredients sourced from the vineyard or nearby farms.”

Mr. Jefferson recommends trying the wide variety of New Zealand wine while enjoying a meal at one of the country’s many “superb restaurants.”

And for a break from the grapes, there are also plenty of distilleries and breweries to sip something different.

City life

While most visit New Zealand to escape to the countryside, its cities have culture to discover around every corner.

Auckland, the country’s largest city, on the North Island, is not short on views, which can be taken in from a yacht in the harbor or from higher up in the famed Sky Tower. The city is also filled with restaurants from fine dining to local cafés.

Visitors can learn about New Zealand’s history and heritage at the Te Papa Tongarewa museum or check out props and costumes from the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies that filmed there at the Weta Workshop, both in the North Island’s Wellington.

A stroll along the river in Christchurch, on the South Island, will pass by local markets, restaurants, breweries and live music.

Cultural welcome

New Zealand’s culture extends far beyond its cities to the native Maori, and spending time with the warm, vibrant people is a must for visitors to truly understand New Zealand.

“I have to defer to a Maori proverb,” Mr. Jefferson said about the country. “What are the three most important things in the world? The people, the people, the people.” 

Travelers have many opportunities to immerse themselves in the culture’s traditions, whether staying overnight in a marae (meeting house), participating in a powhiri (welcome ceremony) or watching a haka (ceremonial dance) performance.

“We specialize in Maori cultural activities, and like to arrange those in special landscapes – by 2,000-year-old sacred trees on private Maori land or learning to trap for eels in mountain ranges,” Mr. Jefferson said.

The Rotorua area on the North Island is home to several Maori villages such as Whakarewarewa.

“Visitors can experience a living Māori village and learn about traditional practices such as weaving, carving and cooking in a hangi (underground oven),” Ms. Dawson said.

THE FRIENDLINESS and hospitality of all “Kiwis” can be felt across New Zealand, where a warm welcome and a wide array of activities await.

“It’s New Zealand’s diversity that makes it so special, from its eye-popping scenery, its unique Maori and Polynesian culture, its excellent food and wine and its world-class luxury lodges and villas,” Ms. Farag said. “New Zealand will absolutely wow everyone.”

For more on New Zealand, and the nearby Australia, read “G’day!” in the March 2023 issue of Luxury Portfolio magazine.

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Airports can seem like a necessary evil for travelers, but many provide excellent amenities and options to kill time before a flight.

Avis, the rental car company with locations worldwide, recently analyzed the busiest airports in Europe to determine which offered the most luxurious pre-trip experiences. Munich Airport in Germany nabbed the number one spot.

“Your holiday often begins at the airport with excitement and anticipation beginning to build,” said Jeanette Harper, senior director of international travel and partnerships for Avis Budget Group.

“A smooth, efficient and welcoming airport experience will leave a positive impression and enhance the overall travel experience, setting the tone for your trip,” she said.

“There can be stressful moments due to long lines, security checks and flight delays or cancellations, but airport amenities can reduce stress by helping you unwind and pass the time.”

Flights of fancy

Avis’ study scored European airports based on the number of luxury fashion and accessories shops and the average consumer ratings of the restaurants, bars and airport lounges.

Munich Airport led the list with a total score of 55.

From the NIghtflight cocktail bar to excellent dining at Mountain Hub Gourmet restaurant, Munich also had the second-highest ranked lounges and third-most number of luxury stores.

Heathrow Airport in London, the busiest airport in Europe, came in second overall and led the pack in number of luxury shops with a total of 44. Restaurants such as Caviar House & Prunier Seafood Bar and Carluccio’s helped it get the third-highest ranking in restaurants and bars.

Athens International Airport in Greece, Frankfurt am Main Airport in Germany and Zurich Airport in Switzerland rounded out the top five airports overall.

Another London spot, Gatwick Airport, had the highest-rated restaurants and bars, with an average of 3.97, coming in at number 10 overall.

The highest-rated lounges can be found in Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport in Madrid, Spain, which ranked seventh overall.

“The most interesting findings from the study have been the prevalence of U.K. and German airports among the top 10 most luxurious, with Munich Airport, Heathrow Airport, Frankfurt am Main Airport and Gatwick Airport ranking first, second, fourth and ninth, respectively,” Ms. Harper said.

The results of the Avis study may help travelers choose the best airports to fly from or to spend a layover.

“Adding an element of luxury to your airport experience, whether that be sipping a cocktail at an exclusive bar or relaxing in a VIP lounge, will get you in the mood for indulgence and leisure, which is what holidays are all about,” Ms. Harper said.

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The ubiquitous all-inclusive package resort is not generally synonymous with a luxury vacation, instead conjuring images of Cancun spring-breakers and all-you-can-eat buffets that are a far cry from gourmet dining.

However, high-end resorts across the globe are upping the ante on the all-inclusive moniker with private, well-appointed accommodations, unique locales and upscale cuisine.

Here are four picks for luxury resorts that have all the bells and whistles included.

Isla Palenque – Boca Chica, Panama

The owner of the Isla Palenque private island resort on the northwest Pacific Coast of Panama was inspired by tales of Robinson Crusoe, and visitors will certainly feel the same way.

Palenque means “sanctuary,” and the eight casitas and one villa estate are just that. The casitas and shared infinity pool lie along the Playa Palenque beach, while the larger villa is across the island.

The resort’s restaurant serves elevated Panamanian dishes using seasonal ingredients and produce from its own farm.

Guests enjoy the use of kayaks, transportation all around the island, guided hikes through the rare primary forest, birdwatching and cultural activities such as Panamanian pastry-making classes.

The Brando – Tetiaroa, French Polynesia

The Tetiaroa atoll, just north of Tahiti in the South Pacific Ocean, was a special place to the late actor Marlon Brando, who fell in love with it while filming Mutiny on the Bounty in the 1960s. Once used by Polynesian royals, Brando was granted a 99-year lease on the island.

Now home to The Brando resort, the island has 35 private villas with their own plunge pools and one larger residence.

Guests have their pick of several restaurants or in-villa service headed by Michelin-starred French chef Jean Imbert, who also created the cuisine aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express luxury train in Europe.

Exploring the island is easy with the help of local guides who take guests hiking and birdwatching, as well as snorkeling on the barrier reefs, along with cultural offerings such as Polynesian weaving, language and music lessons.

Uga Chena Huts – Yala, Sri Lanka

The Uga Chena Huts resort, just outside of Yala National Park on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, sits on the Indian Ocean coast and is a nature-lovers dream.

Each of the 18 private cabins has its own swimming pool and is situated amidst the jungle trees.

Food options range from local dishes to international favorites and include both fine dining and picnics right on the beach.

The highlights of a stay at Uga Chena are the guided safaris in the park, birdwatching expeditions and snorkeling trips to the Great and Little Basses reefs.

Yala is home to leopards, peacocks and 215 other bird species, lizards, crocodiles, the Sri Lankan elephant, Sri Lankan sloth bear and spotted deer.

Lizard Island – Queensland, Australia

Located directly on the Great Barrier Reef, Lizard Island is the place to be for snorkeling and scuba diving adventures.

The resort has a wide variety of rooms, suites, private villas and a larger residence to choose from, all with access to a central swimming pool, kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling gear.

Gourmet meals are served alongside fine wines and other beverages and the resort’s restaurants, and guests can also opt to use one of the dinghys to motor to a private beach for a picnic.

A number of snorkeling tours are available each day along with scuba diving lessons, fishing trips, hiking trails and visits to the Australian Museum’s Lizard Island Research Station, which studies the coral reefs.

For more on the Great Barrier Reef, read “What a wonderful world” in the March 2023 issue of Luxury Portfolio magazine.

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A visit to Ireland is like one of its beloved fairy tales in many ways, with breathtaking green expanses and towering cliffs along the sea, ancient stone ruins and majestic castles and fun and friendly people to welcome weary travelers.

Luckily, the Emerald Isle’s small size allows for a trip that takes in all the nature, history and culture the country has to offer.

“Ireland is magic at any time of the year,” said Karen McBride of Irish Luxury Tours. “Even the most mundane areas of the country are beautiful, especially in summer when the fields and countryside turn lush and green.”

Emerald Isle

Ireland may be small, but it has no shortage of green spaces to explore, with nature-packed sights around every corner.

While just about any drive outside of urban areas will provide a dose of rolling hills babbling brooks, some spots are tailor-made for outdoor adventures, especially along the country’s west coast.

“A drive along the Wild Atlantic Way is stunning,” Ms. McBride said.

The route follows the western coastline and hits countless fantastic natural wonders, including Slieve League, a mountain and sea cliffs in the north, the famed Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry in the south.

National parks such as the Wicklow Mountains, Connemara, the Burren and Killarney offer sweeping views and hiking trails from easy to challenging.

The country’s renowned golf courses are another way to get some fresh air, from the famous Ballybunion Golf Club to the seaside Tralee Golf Club and beyond.

Ireland’s thousands of years of history are also visible at every turn, with castles and ruins seemingly as numerous as sheep.

Ms. McBride recommends Newgrange, a Neolithic monument built around B.C.E. 3200, and the 12^th-century Trim Castle.

Other hits include Glendalough, a monastic settlement dating to the 6^th century, and the Rock of Cashel, a fortress complex with structures built between 1100 and 1400 that includes a historic graveyard.

Saints and scholars

Ireland’s cities are no less impressive than the wild countryside.

“All of our cities hold their own unique appeal,” Ms. McBride said.

“Dublin, the capital, is vibrant, bustling and full of energy,” he said. “Home to attractions such as the Guinness Brewery, the Phoenix Park and Trinity College, Dublin also boasts a vibrant food and drink scene as well as a lively music scene.”

From the Medieval Christ Church and St. Patrick’s cathedrals to views of the River Liffey from the circa-1800s Ha’penny Bridge to pints in a 17^th– or 18^th-century pub, Dublin packs it all in.

“Cork has its own special magic and is home to a wonderful foodie scene,” Ms. McBride said. “Limerick is well-known for its music scene and Kilkenny is famous for its Medieval heritage.

“Galway captures everybody’s heart with its cobbled streets and artisan shops and restaurants,” she said. “It is famed for being the festival capital of Ireland.”

No matter where a traveler lands, they are sure to encounter the warm welcome of the Irish, who love storytelling and sports, beer and whiskey, and song and dance.

“Irish dancing is an important part of our culture and traditional Irish music is known and loved the world over,” Ms. McBride said. “If you get an opportunity to experience a ‘ceilidh’ (Irish dance party) on a visit to Ireland, it will be an experience you will not forget.”

With its bountiful nature, historical sites and friendly culture, Ireland has something to suit any traveler’s taste.

“The energy of the place is something that will stay with you for a long time,” Ms. McBride said.

“I think a visit to Ireland is something that leaves people feeling refreshed, energized, rested, often nostalgic and definitely entertained,” she said.

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Traveling by train conjures up romantic visions of days gone by, and today, rail tours are offering up luxury options on every continent so that passengers can continue to take the leisurely route.

These five are a good start in exploring all that 21^st-century train travel has to offer.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express – Europe

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, owned by LVMH’s Belmond, uses some of the original, but refurbished, train cars from the iconic Orient Express, which made its first journey in 1889.

The train features luxe cabins, a bar car and dining rooms serving multi-course gourmet meals created by Michelin-starred French chef Jean Imbert.

Traveling between London and Istanbul, with stops in Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, Geneva, Verona, Venice, Florence, Roma, Prague, Vienna and Budapest, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is quite the journey.

For more on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, read “All aboard” in the September 2022 issue of Luxury Portfolio magazine.

The Ghan – Australia

The Ghan journeys through the vast interior of Australia, stopping at rarely visited locales on the way.

From Darwin on the north coast to Adelaide on the south coast, the Ghan offers plenty of off-train outback adventure, from cruising through Nitmiluk Gorge to a view of the starry skies to touring an underground opal-mining community.

Along the way, cuisine inspired by each region and local wines are served on board.

Maharajas’ Express – India

The Maharajas’ Express has 23 carriages – all named after precious gemstones – that travels across India. The Presidential Suite has one of them all to itself.

Two dining cars – the Rang Mahal, with a hand-painted colorful fresco, and the Mayur Mahal, with a peacock theme – serve a mix of international and Indian cuisine, while two bar and lounge cars feature a range of beverages.

The train follows several itineraries starting in Mumbai or Delhi and making stops in stunning locations such as Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur and Varanasi to explore Indian cuisine and culture.

Rovos Rail – Africa

Guests on Rovos Rail, based in South Africa, can choose between a few-day trek through the country or expand their adventure across the continent on an up to 15-night voyage.

From wild safaris to views of Victoria Falls, Rovos Rail offers trips through Angola, Botswana, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Along the way, guests are treated to luxe rooms, gourmet meals served on fine china and theme nights aboard the vintage wood-paneled train cars.

The Rocky Mountaineer – North America

The Rocky Mountaineer has several routes that travel through the mountains of southwest Canada, between Vancouver and Jasper or Banff, and the southwestern United States between Moab, Utah, and Denver, Colorado.

Trains only travel during daylight hours to make the most of the scenery they pass through, and onboard hosts regale guests with stories of the history and culture of each area.

The train also features either oversized windows or an entire glass-domed top for maximum viewing.

Other tours, excursions and hotel stays can be added on to any train trip to experience even more of North America.

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Budapest, Hungary, is an ancient yet modern city that may not top the most-visited places in Europe, but has just as much to offer when it comes to interesting architecture, historic sites and culture galore.

A melting pot for centuries, Budapest has gorgeous Danube River views, museums, a cuisine all its own and a nightlife that can keep up with any.  

“Budapest is so different from other European cities in this region,” said Gwen Kozlowski, president of travel agency Exeter International. “You should visit here to experience the vibe – an edgy combination of ancient and new, old and young.”

Living history

The capital of present-day Hungary, Budapest has a long history straddling Europe and Asia that stretches back to B.C.E. times.

First occupied by the Celts, it was later taken over by the Roman Empire which was in turn expelled from the region by the Huns in the 5^th century. Later residents include the Magyars, whose language is still spoken there, and the Mongols.

“It really was an East-meets-West crossroads for centuries,” Ms. Kozlowski said.

The city is divided by the Danube into two sections – Buda on the west side of the river and Pest on the east.

“In general, Buda is the hilly and green side, while Pest is flat and today has most of the business district,” Ms. Kozlowski said.

In residential Buda is the 13^th-century Buda Castle, where Hungarian kings once lived and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also ancient Turkish-style baths and the Roman ruins of Acquincum.

On the Pest side, many of the more luxurious hotels are found along with “gorgeous art nouveau architecture,” the Central Market Hall – a neo-Gothic covered food-and-crafts market circa 1897, museums and the edgy and popular Jewish Quarter.

Not to be ignored are the sparkling waters passing through the center of town.

“Whenever possible, I try to incorporate something on the Danube [on a tour],” Ms. Kozlowski said. “Either an evening cruise when the gorgeous buildings lining the banks of the river are lit via thousands of lights, or a daytime cruise with drinks and snacks.”

Present provisions

When it comes to dining, Budapest runs the gamut from traditional comfort food to modern masterpieces.

Paprika seems to be the national spice of Hungary, and can be found from sweet to hot, powder to paste, in markets and dishes everywhere. Traditional items include goose liver pate, stuffed cabbage, chicken paprikash, fish soup and dobos, a layered cake with caramel glaze.

“And, of course, there is goulash – everyone should give it a try at least once,” Ms. Kozlowski said. “It’s a hearty stew with meat and vegetables and, of course, paprika.”

The city’s food scene has also evolved into so much more.

“Now Budapest is full of cool and trendy restaurants, from those featuring fine dining traditional cuisine to edgy pop-up experiments,” Ms. Kozlowski said. “You can go casual, traditional, Michelin-star fancy, bistro-style, experimental – it’s all here!”

A similar mix of old and new inspires the numerous options for entertainment in Budapest. The 19^th-century Hungarian State Opera House is a must-see building and still hosts concerts.

The Szechenyi Thermal Bath is a traditional Turkish spa by day but turns into a late-night rave party after dark. Ruin bars, which haphazardly set up shop in abandoned warehouses and other neglected old buildings, are also popular.

“It’s got a great energy and definitely deserves to be explored,” Ms. Kozlowski said of Budapest.

“My guests are always surprised at how modern and cool such a historic city can be, but that’s Budapest,” she said. “It’s always changing and evolving, while never losing site of its history.”

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The Maldives, a nation made up of clusters of mostly uninhabited, tiny islands scattered in the Indian Ocean, is a quintessential tropical paradise.

Known for picture-perfect white sand, stands of green palms and turquoise waters, the islands are home to luxurious, private retreats and over-water bungalows amidst a stunning natural backdrop.

“The Maldives is a country like no other,” said Sanjee Solanga, assistant director of sales for Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resort. “Reefs that offer bands of color, tiny jewel-like islands rimmed with the whitest of soft sand and surrounded by the clearest shallow waters that one can imagine.”

Island time

The Maldives consists of about 1,200 coral islands and sandbanks – fewer than 200 of which are inhabited – grouped into atolls that stretch along the equator southwest of India and Sri Lanka.

More than 100 more are home to exclusive resorts, each of which get their very own little island on which to welcome guests.

“While the country covers an area of approximately 90,000 square kilometers, only 298 square kilometers of that is dry land,” Ms. Solanga said.

There are just more than a half-million Maldivians who live among the islands, many in the urban capital of Malé. They speak Dhivehi, a language similar to that of many of the surrounding countries.

Tourism and fishing are the major drivers of the Maldives’ economy, and its cuisine is seafood-based with heavy dashes of coconut, yam, mango and pineapple, thanks to the vast ocean and climate.

Along with being masters at boat building, “there is a rich tradition of Maldivian crafts – lacquered wooden ornaments, finely woven reed mats and coral carvings have been passed down through generations,” Ms. Solanga said.

“While heavily influenced by various cultures around the rim of the Indian Ocean, the Maldivian culture, craft and traditions have been shaped by the island environment and the seas that surround us,” she said.

That island environment also fosters a rich ecosystem filled with wildlife – fruit bats, lizards, snakes and abundant bird life, not to mention the thousands of species that live in the waters beyond.

Nature’s best

While lounging on the sandy beaches are a major pastime for guests in the Maldives, exploring the ocean surrounds is a major attraction.  

“Soft, white, sandy beaches and an ocean with many different shades of blue are not the only things to enjoy in the Maldives,” Ms. Solanga said. “The life under the ocean is extremely precious and colorful as well.”

The numerous coral reefs surrounding the islands are home to sea turtles, whales, dolphins, sharks, manta rays and a plethora of tropical fish.

Scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, hand line and big game fishing, wind surfing, parasailing and jet skiing keep travelers busy in addition to living out their deserted island fantasies with picnics on the isolated sand banks or visiting one of the many uninhabited islands by boat.

Even the islands where resorts are built can seem deserted.

“The resorts are built with a ‘one island, one resort’ concept, which offers maximum relaxation and privacy to all guests,” Ms. Solanga said. “Beaches are never crowded and guests can enjoy exactly the same scenery they see in images.”

The Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resort has just 38 villas on its island, allowing for personalized service for every guest.

“Our legendary butlers welcome guests at the local airport and they will be always nearby to make the guests’ stay comfortable and smooth,” Ms. Solanga said.

“Suggesting activities, making reservations, arranging surprises and accompanying the guest for snorkeling trips on the house reef are some of the few services provided,” she said.

Like many resorts in the Maldives, the “Raffles Maldives Meradhoo is a rare haven whose remote location far from civilization in Malé makes it about as removed from the rhythm of everyday life as is possible,” Ms. Solanga said.

“An exquisitely beautiful escape, it is a paradise from which to forget the world outside,” she said.

The post A trip to the Maldives means pristine beaches and wildlife-filled waters appeared first on Luxury Portfolio International.

Many travelers are looking for ways to unplug from the screens and phones of daily life and spend some time in the wild.

Luxury ranches are giving guests a respite from technology and a return to nature with an authentic taste of the American West, with some added high-end touches.

“You’re going to experience wildlife encounters and you’re going to have a luxury experience as well,” said Jeremy Belnap, general manager of the Ranch at Rock Creek, a working cattle ranch in Philipsburg, Montana.

“We are friendly and welcoming you into our home more so than an upscale city center hotel,” he said. “The ultimate experience we’re looking to create is one of disconnecting, and reconnecting with nature.”

Ranch hand

Nature is not hard to find on a Western ranch.

The Ranch at Rock Creek sits among pine, aspen and cottonwoods in remote Montana, where wildlife is abundant. There are deer, bald and golden eagles, hawks, beavers and rams that call the ranch’s land home.

“Bighorn sheep, especially when they’re clashing and battling it out, can be fun to hear,” Mr. Belnap said. “There’s a herd of them that live nearby. We’ve [also] got some resident moose this year, which are a lot of fun.”

Guests at Brush Creek Ranch, a farm in Saratoga, Wyoming, also spot the occasional moose, along with birds, jack rabbits, eagles, deer, pronghorns and marmots.

“Our landscape is incredibly varied, from towering rock croppings to aspen groves to pristine meadows, and we are surrounded by the Sierra Madre mountain range and Medicine Bow National Forest,” said Michael Williams, the ranch’s chief operating officer and executive vice president.

Along with taking in the peaceful surroundings, ranch life offers plenty of activities for the entire family that range from relaxing to adrenaline pumping.

“Horseback riding is our most popular activity, I’m sure, because of its Western feel,” Mr. Williams said. “Fly fishing is also incredibly popular, and we have 20 miles of private waters for unparalleled fly fishing.”

Cattle drives, barrel racing and hunting add to the authentic ranch experience at Brush Creek.

Guests at Rock Creek also flock to horseback riding and fly fishing, as well as archery and the shooting range.

During a ranch ride along, “you actually get to be a rancher for the day and work alongside our ranching manager, who works the livestock every single day,” Mr. Belnap said. “Feeding a steer, bottle feeding, sorting cows – all things you can get into that are a little bit more authentic to a working ranch.”

Unique experiences include culinary classes on the farm at Brush Creek and mining for sapphires in the Montana mountains at Rock Creek, where guests can take home their sparkly finds.

With the herd

The Western wilderness inspires, and provides, nearly everything on both ranches.

“Every experience we offer ties in our destination and the land on which we occupy,” Mr. Williams said. “We know our guests are visiting the ranch to immerse themselves in the true American West, from the activities they experience to the cuisine they dine on.”

At Brush Creek Ranch, the produce – goat cheese, Wagyu beef and even spirits – are all sourced from the property.

The Ranch at Rock Creek also sources locally and sustainably, from organic dairy to its own cattle and apiary to the jewelry, artwork and leatherwork made by local artisans in its retail store.

“Our role as a working ranch means we want to support our community and the location in which we are set,” Mr. Belnap said.

Of course, the ranches do it all with a luxurious touch.

Both properties are all-inclusive so that guests need not worry about bringing out their wallet for every meal or activity, instead concentrating on relaxing and having fun.

The culinary experiences run from authentic ranch fare to tasting menus with wine pairings at the Rock Creek, while Brush Creek offers private tastings and a 94-yard wine cellar from which to choose bottles.

High-end linens, spa services and customizable everything create a five-star stay that will not soon be forgotten.

“Being able to get away out into the remoteness where folks can disconnect, and reconnect with friends and family is more important than ever,” Mr. Belnap said, all while experiencing things they may have never done before.

“Being able to experience those things for the first time every day can be life changing,” he said. “When each day is filled with those brand-new experiences, there’s just so much to reflect on and think about and talk about at the end of the day over a fine meal.”

Trading the hustle and bustle for a taste of ranch life allows guests to come away from more than just a vacation.

“What I hear over and over is the togetherness that guests are allowed to have with their families,” Mr. Williams said. “They want to bring home memories instead of souvenirs.”

The post Head to the ranch for a wild Western getaway appeared first on Luxury Portfolio International.