Itineraries

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Laid Back Luxury Awaits 

The 35-square mile British West Indies island of Anguilla, which is about half the size of Brooklyn, promises some of the Caribbean’s best beaches, food and hotels, all with a covetable ‘barefoot luxury’ vibe. It’s an under-the-radar favorite in a year when travelers are more eager than ever to travel, safely. 

Once upon a time, it was easy to overlook the sleepy island of Anguilla for its buzzier Caribbean counterparts. After all, it wasn’t as close as the Bahamas for a weekend getaway, didn’t have the celeb cachet of St. Barths, and lacked the posh hotels of islands like St. John or Antigua. 

But not anymore. Thanks to daily flights into the nearby island of St. Maarten (an easy ferry ride away) or simple one-hops direct to the island from San Juan, buzzy new hotel renovations, and more than 100 delectable restaurants, travelers are finally discovering just why this tiny island is exactly where they want to be in 2021 and beyond. 

Stay Here

A room at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla.

Anguilla’s hotels offer something for everyone, but all of the island’s luxury hotels have something in common. They’re perfect for the barefoot luxury seeker, someone who wants an island escape that feels upscale, but not at all pretentious.

The five-star standard for families and couples alike, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla, is a striking bluff-meets-beachfront resort and offers everything a lover of the Four Seasons brand would expect, like three oversized pools to Kelly Wearstler-designed rooms and suites with private plunge pools and contemporary neutral décor. 

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Lily Pond Client Perks at the Four Seasons Resort:

• Breakfast for two guests daily*
• $100 resort credit for rooms, $200 resort credit for suites, once per stay
• Early check-in and late check-out, as available
• Upgrade upon arrival, as available

The resort is offering a 5th night free package for 2021, and a 6th night free package for early 2022 visits, combinable with our perks for you!**

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Although the property is nearly a decade old, more than 45 miles of silver travertine marble, high ceilings, and striking natural wood accents make it seem as if it could have been designed in 2021. Unwind in your choice of 181 oversized accommodations, more than 80% of which boast ocean views. 

Cap Juluca Belmond Resort.

For families and groups, we love the spacious four- and five-bedroom villas, each with a private pool, or the oversized multi-bedroom suites, many of which boast full kitchens. There’s little not to love about this newly re-flagged property, which saw a full update of its dining facilities as part of the re-brand. Our new favorites include the aptly-named Sunset Lounge (get trendy with a floral-adorned Frosé cocktail), the waterfront Coba restaurant, and the laid-back Half Shell Beach Bar. Work off the calories in the gym, movement studio, or private spin room designed by celeb-favorite trainer Harley Pasternak. 

The best beach award goes to none other than stalwart Cap Juluca, a Belmond Resort, which is perched on a perfect half-moon swatch of Maundays Bay. The 62-room resort boasts some of the island’s best “on beach” accommodations; many rooms and suites allow guests to step right out onto the sand. The resort also features its own 32-foot boat, perfect for exploring the island. Newly renovated in a Moroccan-meets-Mediterranean-meets-beachy vibe, the property is more intimate than Four Seasons and offers that kind of barefoot in-the-sand luxury that many travelers crave, but is just about 5 minutes away, so it’s easy to visit both properties for dinner. 

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Lily Pond Luxury Client Perks at Cap Juluca:

• Breakfast for two guests per room daily
• $90 resort credit for rooms, $200 credit for suites, once per stay
• Early check-in and late check-out, as available
• Upgrade upon arrival, as available
• $500 gift certificate for stays of $5000 or more, for use within six months of arrival at any Belmond resort worldwide

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Malliouhana, an Auberge Resort.

For a more intimate feel, try the 44 room Malliouhana, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection. Decorated in a contemporary palette of mint, mango, saffron, and white, the resort looks out of a Caribbean dreamscape, complete with whimsical touches like the wall of vintage scuba helmets on one of the entry wall, or the mirrored mosaic tile floors in the lobby. Take advantage of a double-cascading infinity-edge swimming pool perched over the cliffs, two beaches, and a fine dining restaurant that seamlessly melds American, Mediterranean and Caribbean flavors.  You also won’t want to miss a cocktail at the indoor-outdoor Sunset Bar, one of the island’s best spots to catch a technicolor sunset. 

Perks for Lily Pond Luxury Clients at Malliouhana:

• Breakfast for two guests per room daily
• $100 one time resort credit
• Upgrade upon arrival, as avaialble
• Early check-in and late check-out, as available

The resort has an assortment of complimentary night promotions available, combinable with our amenities above.

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Other notable hotels we often book for clients include Zemi Beach House, on the other side of the island, which offers great beaches and a quiet vibe, the intimate Relais & Chateaux Quintessence Resort, which, at just 13 rooms, can also be bought out for families and friends or small weddings, and CuisinArt Resort, re-opening in November 2021 as “Aurora Anguilla” after a complete renovation. It’s also the only property on the island to boast a golf course. 

For groups and families, we can’t get enough of the private-home-meets-private resort option of Ani Villas. A ten-suite estate made up of a four-suite North villa and a six-suite South villa, guests can buy out all or part of the estate and enjoy an all-inclusive stay that includes staff, daily massages, water sports, custom activities and so much more. 

Food, Glorious Food

Anguilla gets top marks for its food – the 35-square-mile island boasts more than 100 restaurants, from the fine French-inspired dining at Jacala to live fire cooking at Ember to Italian at Cip’s by Cipriani to small barbecue shacks that serve slow-roasted ribs and chicken to anyone willing to wander by and pull up a seat on a nearby picnic table. 

Cip’s by Cipriani outdoor seating.

The island’s luxury hotels boast predictably upscale cuisine, but we’d also suggest getting out and about among the local fare for a true taste of island life. One of our favorites was Veya, which offers a mishmash of international cuisine. On our last visit, dishes were inspired by flavors ranging from a layered black bean salad that reminded us of Mexico to shrimp “cigars” that were vaguely Moroccan – an unlikely combination, but everything melded seamlessly as we sat outside in the treehouse of a restaurant and enjoyed the sounds of a live singer doing Sinatra covers at the bar below. 

Other favorites include Blanchard’s Beach Shack, Mangos or Pimms in West End Village, all longtime island favorites.  

Not sure what to order? Most restaurants pack an extensive menu of fresh seafood, but we’d suggest at least one meal of Anguillan crayfish, a small spiny crustacean that looks like lobster but tastes much sweeter and tenderer. It’s best served simply grilled with drawn butter, and available on almost every menu. Our favorite version came from the tiny Sandy Island’s grill. 

Just beware – you won’t feel like getting into your bikini after any of these deliciously filling meals.  

Day by Day 

Anguilla boasts 33 beaches, most of which are made of smooth, pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters, so you could easily spend your entire trip exploring your favorite place to get a tan. But, as with any island, we have a few favorites. 

Meads Bay beach.

Meads Bay boasts a beautiful strip of white and clear blue water that looks right out of your favorite Instagram account. Anguilla isn’t known for rowdy nightlife, but the most happening spot in town is also on the beach – Sandy Ground, to be precise. In high season, you’ll spot dozens of ships docked in the area, but even in quieter times it’s easy to hop from bar to bar enjoying live music, rum punch, and a good mix of tourists and locals. Don’t miss Elvis Beach Bar, known as ‘the king’ of Anguilla nightlife. 

If you really want the private island life, take a short boat trip to Sandy Island or Prickly Pear Cays, both of which offer regular transport from Sandy Ground.  These tiny islands just a few hundred yards offshore boast beautiful white sand beaches, beach-bar style restaurants serving fresh grilled seafood and strong island-style drinks. Prickly Pear is better for those who want to snorkel, while Sandy Island offers beautiful covered daybeds and loungers for napping, drinking and eating, and then napping again. 

If you want to spend a day on the water, we’d suggest the aptly-named Funtime rentals, which offers both chartered services to and from St. Maarten as well as private tours on 12-passenger boats perfect for exploring the island or taking the hour-long boat ride over to St. Barths (weekly on Tuesdays in high season). 

Want something a bit more relaxing? Try a spa day at the Four Seasons, where you can enjoy your treatment with the windows open to hear the crashing ocean waves below, or indulge in a yoga class on the spa deck perched right over the waves. 

Four Seasons Anguilla Spa.

You may want to rent a car for your easy exploration of the island – if you can get used to driving on the “wrong” side of the road you’ll find it easier than expensive cabs. Just beware, the biggest traffic jam on this six-stoplight island is usually the many local (and adorable!) goats that often wander into the streets. 

Getting Here 

Anguilla gets an unfair rep as an island that’s hard to access, but the reality is that it’s just a quick flight and boat trip away. The easiest way to visit is to hop a quick ~four-hour flight from most East Coast airports into St. Maarten and then opt for a quick 7-minute plane transfer or a 20-minute boat charter onto the island. A boat will run about $450 roundtrip per couple, inclusive of entry and departure taxes, and flights are comparable, or $1100 per family.  

These can easily be arranged by the hotel concierge, or we can set them up as part of your pre-arrival. 

Know Before You Go

The island is warm year-round, but high season runs from mid-December through late spring and slows again through the summer, but the privacy, extremely low COVID rates (and required vaccination for all travelers after July) has made this a popular destination for summer too. 

Most hotels for the month of September through mid-October, which coincides with hurricane season, but no other times of year are considered bad – just some rainier than others.  

COVID Entry Requirements

Americans may travel to Anguilla, so long as they receive pre-travel authorization, along with a few other things. Vaccinated visitors to Anguilla must take a COVID test on arrival, quarantine for 7 days on arrival (and test negative again before they can leave quarantine), and have valid health insurance with COVID-19 coverage. However, starting in July vaccinated travelers will not have to quarantine. Anguilla plans to eliminate all entry requirements by October 1st.

Lily Pond Approved

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A tent at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge.

Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is an off-the-grid Relais & Chateaux resort set on the 62 meter-wide Pacific Ocean inlet for which it is named, in Vancouver Island, Canada. Accessible only by seaplane, guests will experience ultimate relaxation and escape made possible only by its location and exclusive 25-tent accommodation.

Surrounds

The Clayoquot Sound was designated as a UNESCO-protected Biosphere Reserve in 2000. The lodge is surrounded by a variety of ecosystems, including old-growth conifer forests, temperate coastal rainforests, and rocky coastal shores. It is richly biodiverse because of its ability to freely evolve without human interference. It is located on the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nation peoples’ territory, which they call Ahousaht.

Experiences

An Orca Whale at Clayoquot.

The lodge has cultivated a strong relationship with the Nuu-chah-nulth people and guests have the opportunity to visit the ancestral village. Many endangered and rare species inhabit the land and sea of the area, and guests may be lucky to spot some. Watersports, hiking, fishing, animal spotting, and horseback riding are some of the main activities offered at Clayoquot Lodge. There are helicopter trips available for both hiking and fishing trips. These helicopter trips offer the opportunity for guests to get even further off the beaten track to undisrupted wilderness. Sample itineraries can be found here, and we can further curate experiences perfectly for each guest.

Food

A meal at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge.

Much of the produce that appears on the menu regularly is sourced from the Clayoquot Sound—think fresh fish, crabs and scallops, foraged wild mushrooms, turnips and radishes, cabbage, and berries, all of which make inventive yet carefully crafted appearances on the menus. Breakfast is a flexible affair, designed to be either a light bite to be enjoyed before heading out to a day of activities, or a leisurely affair for those with a more laid-back vacation in mind. The lunch menu is seasonally led and offers PNW bistro-style food that is also flexible and can either be easily fit into a busy day of activities or casually enjoyed at a lazy pace. Dinner is a highlight of the day and is enjoyed as a three-course menu with a generous range of choices, as well as numerous private dining experiences fit for milestone occasions. 

Spa

The Healing Grounds Spa is a must-visit after a day spent exploring Claoyquot’s outdoor adventures. The spa features a waterfront massage tent, saunas, and cedar hot tubs – all amongst the ancient forest. There are also miles of waterfront and forest running trails for those dedicated to holistic wellness. Stretch classes are offered every morning for all skill and experience levels.

When to Visit

While the region receives lots of rain, the summer season is generally warm and dry. If guests are interested in marine sports and outdoor activities, the summer (June-August) and shoulder seasons (March-May and September-November) are an ideal time to visit the region. Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is a seasonal lodge, open from May until the end of September.  In the spring, black bears begin to wake up from the Winter hibernation, making it an ideal time for sightings despite the cold. The summer is still cool, with daytime temperatures ranging from 51-66 F, but it is drier and the whale migration is at its peak. In the fall, temperatures begin to drop again and the surf swell around the coast increases – while salmon begin their run up the river.

Baillie Lodges is an Australian-based chain that has taken over its first property outside of Australia and New Zealand with this property for the 2021 season. Baillie has a vision to align the property with the brand’s philosophy within a 3-year time frame, with the first changes being making the guest tents more contemporary. Sister properties include Huka in New Zealand and Longitude 131º in Australia. More information on the brand can be found here.

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If Clayoquot is calling to you, Send us an Email to learn more!

Written by Michaela Barrett for Lily Pond Luxury.

New & Noteable

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The Kea Island One&Only Resort set to open in 2022.

Luxury brand One&Only is expanding its portfolio of luxury properties to include two new resorts in Greece in 2022, perfect for those travelers seeking trips for next summer and beyond. Greece is HOT for this year and next alike, as it was one of the earliest European nations to announce reopening to American travelers.

These properties promise both luxury experiences and the strong sense of place that the brand is known for, as well as the ultimate combination – the ability to visit both Athens (a general must for first-time travelers, and a common entry point from the US) as well as an island destination. 

The two properties will make an ideal pairing: Aesthesis is located on the Athenian Riviera, while the other location is on Kea Island – the closest Cycladic Island to Athens. 

What to Expect

Both properties are scheduled to open in 2022, which means they are ideal for travelers looking ahead to next summer’s plans. Aesthesis boasts modern yet elegant Greek style where city meets waterfront resort, and Kea offers expansive sea views and a beautiful beach that is naturally sheltered from the Aegean winds. As with every One&Only, entertainment is at the heart of the experience – with food destined to be a prominent part of these Greek locations. Of course, our travelers will also get value-added amenities like complimentary breakfast, priority upgrades, and likely special experience credits as well.   

Aesthesis: Luxury on the Athenian Riviera 

Aesthesis is located on more than 1600 yards of seafront. It’s a combination beachfront estate also a private forest reserve, where guests and residents will bask in sun-drenched luxury. It’s also an anticipated romantic escape – most of the accommodations are secluded villas with private pools, perfect for couples and privacy-seekers alike. 

True to the brand’s reputation, there will be both programming for families with children as well as space preserved solely for adults. A Chenot Spa (a Swiss brand known for its lux and inspired treatments) will also be a highlight. 

Kéa: Island Paradise

The Kéa Island location will offer 75 villas and private homes. Guests will arrive via private luxury yacht, setting the scene for a location optimal to lounge, socialize and play. 

When to Visit

While summer is high season in Greece, spring and fall weather is most pleasant, with a high likelihood of constant sunshine. Crowds are also less dense at this time of year, with fewer tourists visiting the area than in the summer. If you choose to visit during the winter months, expect chilly but relatively mild weather in this Mediterranean location.

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Want to be added to our wait list to notify when reservations open up at these properties? Send us a note! 

Written by Michaela Barrett for Lily Pond Luxury.

Itineraries

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Table Mountain from Blouberg Beach.

Today’s guide is courtesy of Lily Pond Luxury’s Michaela Barrett, a South African native. We’ve asked Michaela to highlight a few of her favorite sites and spots to format an epic South African luxury adventure fit for first-timers and luxury lovers alike!

When to travel (and for how long):

This is a tricky question! Typically, the best time of year for safaris is May to September (the winter) as it is the dry season and will allow the best animal viewing because they congregate around watering holes. However, if you want to experience the beaches and nature in Cape Town more than you want to see animals in a Game Reserve, then November to March will suit your needs better. The recommended length of time to stay would be about 5 days in Cape Town and 3-4 days on Safari, longer if you wish to tack on the Winelands at the start or end.

Where to stay:

All of the luxury properties suggested below offer extra amenities for Lily Pond Luxury clients, including breakfast, credits, and upgrades where available. Ask your advisor how best to select the perfect property for you!

Silo Hotel: This hotel is fairly new to Cape Town’s hotel scene and has quickly risen to the top of the list of luxury hotels in the city. There are only 28 rooms in the modern eclectic hotel, and each room has a private balcony and its own collection of Contemporary African Art. There is also a spectacular one-bedroom penthouse included in the 28 rooms and private residences along the Atlantic Seaboard. There are a few dining experiences available within the hotel that offer incredible views of Table Mountain. The Silo Spa is a great place to unwind.

The Vineyard: This Claremont based hotel has become one of the most environmentally friendly hotels in Cape Town over the past two centuries since the original house was built in February 1800. The architecture is still true to its original English style, but the contemporary interior styling of the house creates a comfortable environment for today’s guests. Hotel amenities include a spa, fitness center, jogging route, and a resident of the hotel since the 1980s that guests will look forward to meeting are the Mountain Tortoises that roam the property. The Constantia Winelands are a short distance from the hotel, and the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens are a 25-minute walk, or a 10-minute drive, away.

One&Only: Also located at the V&A Waterfront, the One&Only is also very well located for exploring the city. The rooms are spacious, and guests will have spectacular views of Table Mountain, the Marina, or both from private balconies. The One Above Penthouse offers the ultimate luxurious accommodation experience, with 4 king-sized beds, 2 private pools, a glass wine cellar, and outdoor spaces on both floors. The Nobu restaurant is located in the hotel, along with Isola – a more laid-back restaurant, a bar and lounge, a wine studio, and private dining options. Unwind after a day of sightseeing at the exclusive Spa Island and infinity pool.

Singita Lodges: Singita is dedicated to environmentally conscious hospitality, sustainable conservation, and empowering local communities. Singita means “Place of Miracles” in Shangaan, and that is exactly what this exclusive chain offers. Game viewing is consistently spectacular, as the limited number of guests means fewer people to chase away and interfere with the wild animals. The chain includes 15 lodges across four countries, five of which are in South Africa. Our advisors can help you decide which lodge is the best fit for you, or you could try out a few. Each lodge differs a little from the others, but at the heart of it all is a desire to connect with nature and witness wild animals in their natural state like never. A safari brings out the child-like wonder at the world that everyone should experience at least once in their adult life.

Food in Cape Town

Cape Town is a foodie’s paradise. With the South African currency (the rand) as weak as it is, tourists can enjoy fine dining for a fraction of what it would in the US or Europe. Cult-favorite Nobu has a location in the One&Only hotel and dishes range from $7 to $35 on average (yes, please). Many other restaurants inspired by traditional South African flavors offer the same luxury dining experience – with tasting menus featured at most high-end restaurants – with their own unique atmosphere that sets them apart as their own experience. Fyn is another must-try for foodies staying in the city. With an open-plan kitchen, chic Asian-inspired décor, and an uninterrupted view of Table Mountain and the city below, guests can rest assured they will have a dining experience to remember (and unforgettable cocktails). South Africa is well-known for its wines, and Stellenbosch and surrounds – the Capetonian Winelands – are dotted with wine estates, many of which feature their own special fine dining experiences. Wine Pairing menus and wine tasting are experiences that no wine-lover should miss when visiting South Africa. Some of the Wineland classic restaurants include Delaire Graff, Die Werf, La Colombe, and Babylonstoren.

Activities in Cape Town:

Classic must-sees in Cape Town often include the restaurants and wine estates mentioned above, but there are many more experiences that visitors wouldn’t want to miss. The iconic Table Mountain and Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners of the Apartheid Regime were imprisoned) are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites and highly recommended for visitors to South Africa to see. The nearby V&A Waterfront is a shopping mall with outdoor entertainment that includes traditional music, and within walking distance is the Zeitz MOCAA (Museum of Contemporary Art Africa) – two fun activities that could be combined into one day. If you’re there in the summer, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and Clifton, Camps Bay and Boulder’s Beaches are beautiful destinations each of which you could easily spend an entire day at. The Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock is a fun, trendy destination that features boutique stores, food markets, and one of the most highly acclaimed restaurants in the country- ranked in the Top 50 in the World, The Test Kitchen (which you need to reserve at least a month in advance). The Bo-Kaap is a formerly segregated area that is the historical center of Cape Malay culture in Cape Town and the oldest surviving residential neighborhood in Cape Town. It is recognizable for its widely photographed brightly colored homes. Visit the Southernmost tip of Africa at Cape Agulhas.

Your Lily Pond Luxury travel advisor can arrange guided tours to any of these sites at your leisure.

Visas and Safety:

American passport holders do not need visas to visit South Africa for 90 days or less for tourism. Passports must be valid for 30 or more days after the intended return date from South Africa. South Africa is a safe place, but poverty is rife. Keep your belongings close to you at all times, try to use bags that have zippers instead of bags that do not close, and stay in more touristy areas. Be aware of your surroundings and don’t flaunt your wealth and you will be fine.

Stay up to date with the latest COVID requirements using the tools found in our blog about getting back to travel.

Getting there:

You’re in luck. South Africa is one of the easiest places to get to in Africa from the United States. United flies to Johannesburg’s OR Tambo Airport direct from Newark as well as DC (17.5 hours) and then it is approximately a two-hour flight to Cape Town. Generally speaking, travelers will want to spend at least 3-4 nights in Cape Town, possibly venturing into the Winelands, and cap off their trip with a safari.

Getting between safari lodges, with or without COVID restrictions, can require lots of flying. If you’re willing to charter lots of small planes and sit on flights, it’s doable, but if you’re trying to limit the time spent in the air and maximize budget, it’s best to stay within South Africa. for your safari, rather than attempting to spend too much time hopping around. If you chose to do a safari (a highly recommended experience) you will charter a light aircraft from OR Tambo airport directly to your lodge – we recommend the Kruger National Park, or the adjacent Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Both offer prime game viewing and top lodges for a true “safari” experience, without the headache of wasting days in transit.

Venturing to Neighbouring Countries:

The Fish River Lodge.

Neighboring Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique are also beautiful destinations. While Botswana’s safaris are somewhat similar to what you will find in the Kruger, there are a variety of landscapes that differ – such as the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans that you will experience at Jack’s Camp, or the Okavango Delta at Seba Luxury Camp. Namibia is a coastal desert and is home to the breathtaking Fish River Canyon – the second largest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon. The Fish River Lodge offers an “on-the-edge” experience with incredible views of the canyon below with nothing else as far as the eye can see. Zimbabwe is home to the thundering Victoria Falls and the Victoria Falls Hotel has one of the best vantage points of this Natural Wonder, right across the border in Zambia is the Royal Livingston hotel by Anantara and is incredibly close to the falls, also with an amazing perspective of the “smoke that thunders”. Mozambique is for ocean lovers, and the White Pearle Resort and Azura Quilalea Private Island are two amazing hotels to kick back and enjoy the white sandy beaches. For those on return visits to Africa, trying another country is perfect to expand your horizons. Because once you visit Africa once, you’ll always yearn to return!

Michaela Barrett is a rising Junior at Wake Forest University, where is studying communications and journalism. She is spending the summer with Lily Pond Luxury, expanding her love of experiential travel.

Lily Pond Approved

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The deck of a suite at the Fish River Lodge, overlooking the Fish River Canyon.

The Fish River Lodge is a contemporary lodge in Namibia on the edge of a cliff of the Fish River Canyon, with expansive views of the canyon below. The lodge and surrounding areas are focused on eco-conscious practices to ensure minimal impact on the sensitive, arid environment. With 20 chalets, the Fish River Lodge offers the perfect spot for nature enthusiasts to experience the second largest canyon in the world.

The Rooms

There are 6 doubles, 3 family and 11 twin chalets at the lodge. Each chalet boasts tall windows to admire the canyon view from bed and a wrap-around deck for admiring the view while you drink your morning coffee. At the main building, there is an infinity pool that is an oasis from the heat in the summer months and offers incredible views. In the winter the big fireplaces inside the main building are a cozy indoor retreat.

Nature & Activities 

A Kokerboom at sunset with the Fish River Canyon in the background.

The local flora and fauna are also part of the appeal of the Fish River Canyon. The Kokerboom is a succulent tree that is largely associated with the region, and they create the perfect silhouette in beautiful sunset pictures. Visitors may also spot the rare zebra, oryx antelope, and ostriches. Adventure activities that are both guided and unguided are available and are suited to a variety of fitness levels. Hiking and biking paths where one can meander along the rim of the canyon or trek down into the canyon below are guest favorites and are easily accessible from the lodge.

Getting There

Windhoek is the closest major airport to the lodge, which is located on the Western Rim of the Fish River Canyon. Windhoek’s international airport is a 2-hour flight from Johannesburg, South Africa. From the town of Keetmanshoop in Namibia, you take a tar road to Lüderitz and then turn onto the D463, which is a gravel road, for a little over 12 miles. The journey from Windhoek to the lodge will take about 7 hours by car. But it is a drive well worth it because it is the only lodge directly on the rim of the canyon – with all chalets between 16 and 26 feet from the edge. Guests typically stay 2 or 3 nights.

Inside the main building, where food is served and fires crackle in the winter.

When to Visit

It really depends on what kind of weather you want. Temperatures in the summer range from 86 to 104 Fahrenheit in the summer and 32 to 68 Fahrenheit in the winter. Because the lodge is located off the main electricity grid and depends on solar power, there is no air conditioning, fridges, or kettles in the chalets, but fans are available. If you want to experience swimming in the caverns or the infinity pool on the edge of the cliff, or have the best stargazing opportunities then the summer season is the perfect time for you to visit.

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If this is a destination that sounds exciting to you, reach out to us to learn more!

Written by Michaela Barrett for Lily Pond Luxury.

Lily Pond Approved

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A suite at Jack’s Camp in Botswana.

Jack’s Camp is an ultra-luxury tented camp in the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans of Botswana. With only 9 rooms, service is exquisitely tailored to each guests’ desires, with little touches that make guests feel like royalty. The camp has recently undergone an enormous revamp, and while it kept the touches that set it apart as Jack’s Camp, it is even more luxurious, and the tents have almost doubled in size.

Jack’s Camp is inspired by the life of Jack Bousfield, a crocodile and legendary hunter that set out to the Makgadikgadi Pans in the 1960s and set up camp in this spot because he was so captivated by it. In 1992 Jack died in a plane crash, and his son, Ralph, establish the Uncharted Africa Safari Company in honor of his father’s vision. As such, it is furnished in a nostalgic 1940s style with no frills, like no electricity, water in copper jugs, and showers under the stars. Jack was captivated by adventure and living things – people and animals alike – and had strong connections with the native bushmen. Ralph has been able to make conservation of both people, animals, and the environment a central mission, alongside adventure, with the Uncharted Africa Safari Company.

The living area in a suite at Jack’s Camp.

The Rooms

The iconic green canvas, muslin-draped walls, and 1940s campaign style remain, but each room has been upgraded to include an overhead bed cooling system and a private deck with a plunge pool. While there used to be no electricity to keep the authentic feel, there is now 24-hour solar-powered electricity in the tents and a complimentary laundry service, but still no WiFi or hairdryers (you don’t need them out there!). The new setup offers 7 tents with two queen-size beds and 2 tents with an extra length king bed, providing guests with the option of accommodating more people per tent than was possible before.

The Food & Amenities

The mess tent still houses the Natural History Museum, library, and vintage 36-seater dining table that served as an officer’s mess table in the 1820s, as well as the drinks cabinet and antique pool table. Jack collected many local stone tools, fossils of extinct fauna and flora, historical maps, animal skulls, and bushman beadwork, much of which is displayed in what the camp staff fondly refer to as the Natural History Museum. The collection is one of the most comprehensive ancient artifact collections in Botswana. The dining table is where all the guests staying at the camp come together to eat dinner and exchange stories of the day, and it is an iconic part of Jack’s Camp’s homey environment. The shared swimming pool pavilion is the only of its kind in Africa and offers panoramic views perfect for soaking up the nature and spotting animals. Food and drinks are included in your stay, and are all incredibly delicious (it still amazes us how safari camps make gourmet food) and tailored to guests’ specific needs.

A quad bike adventure on the salt pans during the dry season.

When to Visit

With two distinct seasons offering totally different things, we will help our clients choose from a selection of about 7 different periods throughout the year to visit based on their desired experience. Have habituated meerkats crawl up and perch on your head, meet Zu/’hoasi Bushmen and walk through the bush with them, take day and nighttime game drives, go on hikes, horseback rides, and receive a wellness therapy on your private deck or the dedicated spa year-round. Take quad bike adventures across the salt pans and marvel as the stars unfold above you in the dry season (16 April – 31 October). In the Shoulder Season of November, rains roll through and grass starts to grow, while flocks of flamingos and other birds move in and Wildebeest and Zebras crowd the plains. The Green Season (10 January – 31 March) requires less traveling, as the large amounts of animals present often allow viewing directly from your veranda. The green season is also when the last remaining zebra and wildebeest migration in Southern Africa, and the second-largest in Africa, occurs – and it’s a sight to behold!

How to Plan a Trip

Jack’s Camp is part of the Uncharted Africa Safari Company, and they guarantee guests “Real Adventure in Unreal Style” at all their camps, which include San Camp and Kalahari Camp. If you’re looking to get away and experience life in the bush in luxury, Jack’s Camp should be at the top of your list.

Safety & Security Update

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With hopes of the world going back to (a new) normal slowly starting to become reality, our travelers are more excited than ever to explore. We’ve (thankfully) seen a record business in the first half of 2021, and the latter half of this year is poised to look much the same. While things are looking promising, with many borders cautiously opening back up to travel, there are still a number of ever-changing factors to keep your eye on when planning trips in the post-lockdown world. 

This guide will introduce you not just to ways to stay on top of special requirements and rules that different countries have with regards to travel, such as quarantine and testing requirements, but also guide you through a bit of what you can expect as you travel in 2021 and beyond. Remember that we at Lily Pond Luxury are here to help you each and every step of the way! 

Understand What is Required of You (and How Your Travel Advisor Can Help)

Most non-US destinations still have quarantine and/or testing requirements in place, and all travelers, even those who have been fully vaccinated, must still complete and submit negative test results to re-enter the United States no fewer than three days prior to re-entry, per CDC guidelines.

These rules are complex and ever-changing, and we do our best as advisors to not only stay on top of these regulations, but also to educate you, as travelers, about what actions you can expect to take, from testing and authorization forms to insurance purchases and even medical evacuation coverage. 

The below is a blend of actions you, the traveler, can take, and actions that we, the advisor, can take on your behalf. 

Generally speaking, you, the traveler, must complete all health tests, fill out all travel forms, obtaining insurances, and are responsible for submitting test results in a timely fashion to comply with travel regulations. Should you fail to complete any of these items, you may be subject to trip cancellation by the hotel or airline, quarantine requirements, or additional on-the-ground testing and fees. 

As much as we’d love to streamline any and all aspects of your travel, the above are personal requirements that often involve complex health statements and certifications of your current health and behaviors leading up to the trip.  

We are happy to not only design the perfect trip, from hotels to activities and special moments, but we can also conduct specialty services that have grown far more popular in the wake of the pandemic. Yes, we can purchase your travel insurance, your medical evacuation insurance, ship your luggage, buy your airline tickets and more – these are all value-added items your travel advisor is perfectly equipped to help you with! We’ll even schedule your pre-return covid tests (often done right on the resort grounds) prior to your return, as desired. 

We will do our best to advise you of requirements at your destination prior to booking travel, as well as prior to departure, and of course answer any questions about a destination, a property’s COVID protocols, and more. 

Traveler Resources – Restrictions, Testing Requirements & More:

While not an exhaustive list, the below are links to reputable channels we often use to cross-check traveler requirements. 

Sherpa 

Visit Sherpa and get depth information on requirements specific to you. Upload your dates of travel, vaccine status, country of entry and more, and the website will share the current travel guidelines with you. It’s free, doesn’t require membership, and very comprehensive – it’s also used by partners like American Airlines.

VeriFLY 

This is the airline industry’s most widely adopted mobile health passport and can help travelers ensure that they have fulfilled all requirements necessary to travel between specific destinations. Customers input their origin and destination and will be prompted to upload the necessary documentation to the app. The app will then confirm or deny that the location-specific requirements have been met. The app is intended to give travelers peace of mind that they have done everything that they need to do, however, travelers should still read up on what is expected of them just to make sure. We think of this as slightly more comprehensive than Sherpa, and the first step towards a “vaccine passport” concept. 

Government Websites

To get the most reliable and up-to-date travel requirement information, we’d suggest US government websites.  For Americans, a large database of destinations’ exit and entry requirements can be found here.

Testing, Simplified

If your destination requires testing, you may be able to use Vault’s rapid at-home testing kit. PCR compliant (it even works for Hawaii, one of the strictest spots), this test is $119 per test and is a simple saliva-based test that can be done at your computer. 

To re-enter the United States, travelers will also need to take a negative test no more than 3 days (72 hours) prior to boarding their flights home. This can be a PCR or an antigen test, and most resorts have onsite medical teams that can administer the tests and have you back to your regularly scheduled activities within the hour! We’re happy to set up your appointment, or many can be done onsite when you arrive at your property. 

Insurance

Yes, insurance is hot right now! The most important question to answer: it rarely covers a pandemic, unless you booked travel before the issue became “known.” One of the things we all learned from COVID is that it’s important to plan for the unexpected, as resorts and airlines tend to be getting less and less flexible when you ask to go outside of standard policy.

From comprehensive plans like Travelex or Allianz that are “gold standard” for insurance, we also can quote specialized insurance policies for everything from COVID evacuation (COVAC) to hospital and terrorism transfers (MedJet). 

Insurance, while expensive (usually five percent or slightly more of trip cost) covers a variety of items, from medical emergencies in destination (when your usual health insurance may not cover) to lost luggage, coverage for missed connections and travel delays, and even emergency evacuation. While this can be tempting to skip, it’s a cost that’s well worth the spend if you have to claim against it. You can also use it to recoup travel costs if you have to cancel a trip prior to travel, such as because a family member became ill, you lose your job, or get into an accident prior to travel. You can generally buy insurance up until about a day before you travel, but it will only cover pre-existing or known conditions if you buy within two weeks of the first deposit on your trip – when you book your hotel or airfare. 

Additional benefits for specialized insurance cover COVID evacuation, hospital transfers, and more.

We walk clients often through the nuances of specific plans, so feel free to ask for more assistance as part of any full-service planning process. We can also quote and book insurance as a one-off benefit as part of our hourly fee concierge programs. Our rates tend to be better than the general public, so there is a benefit to using your advisor for this service. 

Lines, Sold Out Rental Cars & More

Yes, lines, higher-than-average prices and shortages in certain areas (like rental cars) are now normal parts of travel. Many travelers are shocked by high prices and certain destinations, like national parks, that have been sold out for months and months. Yes, everyone wants to travel.

For many hotels, it means even off-season (like the Caribbean in summer) can be full or sold out, rental cars are expensive or unavailable, and restaurants are booked months in advance. It’s a combination of demand, reduced capacity or occupancy, and in some cases, businesses raising rates to make up for a year of not having guests. We are happy to try to negotiate or suggest “alternate” options that are suitable within your budget and style, and of course, ways to make your budget go further, such as sharing a private villa with friends and family vs. each taking individual suites. 

We suggest you budget for spending 20 to 40 percent more than in the past – particularly over peak dates – and try to plan early. Now, summer, is a great time to think about next spring break, summer break, and even use our long-range “Dream Designer” service to do some forecasting for your travel budget and bucket list destinations in the next 3-5 years. We offer this customized service for clients looking to maximize their travel experience and hit the best places at the best times.

The Bottom Line 

Packing your patience is key – we are eager to help you travel safely and in style, and to make sure our partners help you have a fantastic visit, no matter where you wish to go! 

While it feels like things are starting to go back to normal, a lot of countries are still struggling to contain the virus and get vaccines out. As a result, not every destination is at the same level of ‘normal’ as the United States. Thus, it remains of utmost importance for travelers to stay up to date with the requirements of the places that they are visiting. While one advantage of using a travel advisor is that they always stay up to date with these guidelines, clients are still responsible for researching specific requirements, filling out forms and scheduling their own tests.

We look forward to hearing from you, and as always, please reach out with any questions! 

Lily Pond Approved

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The ocean facing cabins at Nimmo

A luxury wilderness retreat set in the heart of Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest, on the Pacific Ocean, guests will experience ultimate seclusion and reconnection at Nimmo Bay. Away from the hustle and bustle of human civilization, nature thrives, and guests will have the opportunity to encounter humpback and orca whales, bear cubs, and other untouched wildlife.

The Rooms

Guests have a choice between a cabin facing the ocean or a cabin alongside a natural stream and waterfall. All cabins have two bedrooms, one bathroom, a lounge area and housekeeping service. With only 9 cabins, set far from any cities or towns, guests will experience uninterrupted relaxation incomparable to regular life.

The Food

The dining experience is unrivaled. With the Great Bear Rainforest being one of the largest intact temperate rainforests in the world, Nimmo Bay places a large emphasis on sustainable living – and as a result, food is often sourced and foraged from right around the property. For guests looking to get involved, there is the opportunity to free dive for your dinner, which will then be prepared over an open fire under the starry sky. Wild vegetation, spot prawns, fresh halibut, uni and dungeness crab are some of the staples when they are in season. But don’t assume this means unextraordinary meals, because the expert chefs create culinary masterpieces from these ultra-fresh ingredients. Ingredients not sourced from the wild (like pasture-raised meats and some produce) is sourced from sustainable farms in the nearby Vancouver Island. There is always an opportunity to scale back or up with your involvement in meal prep depending on your level of interest.

The Activities

Discover nature via boat, kayak, paddleboard, helicopter, or foot. Join an expert guide in a bear viewing opportunity tailored to your desires (think land or boat) while keeping the safety of both guests and animals at the forefront – you’ll also learn more about their ecology. Waterway adventures, like paddleboarding, also provide the opportunity to encounter animals and learn more about ecology. For more far-flung adventures, helicopter tours can be organized. Therapeutic and relaxation wellness opportunities are equally as incredible, for those looking for some TLC.

Getting Here

Getting to this off-the-grid escape requires some well worth it planning. Inaccessible by road, guests two options are by air or sea - all adding to the sense of adventure that this remote destination creates. Set arrival and departure times are in the late afternoon and early evening only. Private charter floatplanes from Vancouver, Seattle, Victoria and Tofino are non-stop routes. However, the most common route is a 50-minute flight from Vancouver International Airport to Port Hardy, and then a 20-minute floatplane flight from Port Hardy to Nimmo Bay. The special Helicopter Adventure Package (which includes a private helicopter booked for everyday of your trip) will include a transfer from Port Hardy via helicopter instead.

When to Visit

Nimmo Bay is open for a six-month span from May to November. Depending on what you are hoping to get out of your adventure different times are better than others. For grizzly bear spotting, September to October is your best bet (black bears typically roam all season long). Whale watching season begins around July 1 and continues into the fall, while sea lions stick around all season. Resort activities are available throughout the whole season, but for specific viewing desires we will take into account seasonal fluctuations to find the best time for you. Stay lengths include 3, 4, and 7 nights, with arrivals and departures on Mondays and Thursdays only.

Since you’ll likely be transferring through Vancouver on both sides of your trip, why not add on a couple of days there for exploring Canadian city life too? Vancouver is Canada’s most ethnically diverse and most dense city, and despite being a city many of its most beloved attractions are also outdoor activities. Gastown is a cute downtown area that boasts cocktail lounges and chic boutiques. The Chinese gardens in Chinatown are also a must-see in Vancouver.

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While you may never want to leave, the appreciation for nature, yourself, and others that your experiences at Nimmo Bay will instill in you will last forever. If a Canadian back-to-nature adventure sounds appealing to you, get in touch with us to discuss what best fits your desires.

Written by Michaela Barrett for Lily Pond Luxury.

LILY POND APPROVED

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The four bedroom Mesa Home at Amangiri.

Meet Amangiri. A 45-minute drive from the closest airport, in Page, Arizona, this southern Utah-based luxury resort is for anyone looking to reconnect with themselves, away from the rest of the world.

Suite decor at Amangiri.

Opened in 2009, this 34-suite retreat was created with the vision of honoring Native American Heritage – particularly Navajo culture. Spread over 600 acres, with views of the rock formations and mesas of the expensive desert, the hotel further transports guests into a Navajo-esque environment with the sounds of traditional music and crackling fireplaces, visions of handcrafted rugs and lighted candles, and the smell of sage drifting through the air.

Today, it’s best known as an ultra-private retreat that caters to the A-list and well-heeled clientele alike, and is one of our most requested for bucket list birthdays, anniversaries, proposals, and more.

Activities

The nearby Lake Powell.

With ample space to explore, guests can choose to hike with a guide that will teach them about the environment, or to hike on their own – the Broken Arrow Cave where 6,000-year-old artifacts and petroglyphs were found makes a magical final destination. Further opportunities for exploration include horseback rides tailored to each guests’ level of adventure and expertise – with the most challenging including ridge-top hacks high above the canyons. For those who prefer water activities, Lake Powell is the perfect spot, with beautiful canyon walls towering above and the Rainbow Bridge to admire, guests will never want to leave. The new 200-foot-long Cave Peak Stairway is suspended 400 feet above the ground from one canyon wall to another and offers a thrill for adrenalin-junkies. We curate a wide array of activities for guests, including hot-air balloon trips, yoga, and Navajo story-telling.

Dining

The Amangiri restaurant boasts sustainable, seasonal menus inspired by traditional Navajo dishes as well as Utah’s Southwestern culinary heritage, with the main restaurant set in a room with floor-to-ceiling windows that provide expansive views of the plains that surround the hotel. Food can also be served outside on the pool terrace. The restaurant has a wood-fired oven in the open-plan kitchen, which gives the food an authentic flavor. While the menus take inspiration from Native American cuisine, the chef also incorporates modern global influences to create new flavors.

Wellness

Guests also have the opportunity to unwind and reconnect at the Aman Spa, where treatments incorporate Navajo healing traditions that draw on the elements of earth, wind, fire, and water. Before performing treatments, therapists “smudge” the client with white sage to help them reconnect with nature. Guests can also do yoga on the rocks, guided meditation wherever they feel most comfortable, and relax while immersed in a crystal sound bath. All part of reconnecting with oneself and nature, the Aman spa centers on the philosophy of hózhó.

Camp sarika

Just a five-minute drive away is the sister location to Amangiri, Camp Sarika. The new “glamping hub” for the resort is located just a short drive away and offers a totally unique resort experience (guests often ask to experience both parts of the property). Each of the 10 one and two-bedroom tents comes with its own private plunge pool, and the camp centers on a communal area with a lounge, restaurant, and pool. Meals are served family-style, meaning you get more interaction with other guests (and makes it perfect for families or social couples), and this resort offers the same outdoor adventure and in some ways, even greater seclusion and opportunities for deeper mediation and reconnection.

About aman

Aman is in a resort class all to its own. Guests dub themselves #AmanJunkies and up to 50% of the hotel’s travel is from repeat guests who simply love Aman. It’s rare that we see a brand with this level of following and desire, and as a result, guests often book these properties months and months in advance to secure best rates and dates.

Eager to experience another Aman? The sister property Amangani (Jackson Hole) is a popular option, and the brand’s first city escape, Aman New York, is set to open this fall. The Caribbean boasts Amanera in the Dominican Republic and Amanyara in Turks and Caicos while other properties dot Europe. The brand dominates in Asia, with true standout options ranging from Cambodia, Thailand, China, Japan, and even Bhutan.

If you are in search of a luxury retreat that offers seclusion and reconnection with the earth, as well as cultural education on the Navajo tribe, let’s chat to find out more about Amangiri – and if Utah isn’t for you but you’re still tantalized by this chain’s philosophy, contact us to find out more about their other locations.

Lily Pond Luxury guests get an extra resort credit and priority for upgrades, early check-in, and late check-out at all Aman properties, plus extra perks when applicable.

Written by Michaela Barrett for Lily Pond Luxury.

New & Noteable

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If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live like royalty, Airelles has just made that possible with the opening of Le Grand Contrôle within the grounds of the iconic Château de Versailles, on June 1st.

A suite in Le Grand Côntrole.

Accomodation

Step into the shoes of the European elite of centuries past as you roam the palace halls and more than 2,000 acres of gardens and sleep in a building constructed by Louis XVI’s favorite architect. Restored and redecorated to represent the 18th-century style of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, the hotel boasts just 14 opulent rooms and suites, each with individual décor. Largely decorated with original period furniture and art, the hotel has a uniquely authentic air. Many other historical features, such as parquet flooring, fabrics, stonework, and wood paneling were also recreated by commissioned French artisans.

Special guest perks include exclusive access to areas of the Château and grounds that are closed to the public and the ability to explore the Grand Canal and gardens at leisure with special access to boats and golf carts. Each stay also includes a private tour of The Trianon and The Queen’s Hamlet before the arrival of the general public, a private tour of the Château after all visitors have left for the day, and unlimited access to the Orangery Gardens. Versailles is a must-visit for many visitors to Paris, so we’d suggest pairing this new luxury retreat for one or two nights at the beginning or end of your visit to take the most advantage of the grounds and special experiences.

The restaurant at Le Grand Côntrole.

Dining

Chef Alain Ducasse, with 20 Michelin stars to his name, further transports guests on their aristocratic journey with his gastronomic delights that are reminiscent of both past and present. With flamboyant reimagined French classics, dinner is a theatrical affair that recalls the King’s royal banquets – with staff dressed in period costume as they serve gold, silver and vermeil dome covered dishes, a bell rings at 8:30 pm to signal the beginning of the five-course gourmet feast. Each Sunday, a royal brunch is served, and an afternoon tea dedicated to Marie Antoinette is held every afternoon.

Spa

The Valmont spa features a hand-painted fresco and Carrara marble checkerboard floor, the indoor swimming pool, and a Hamman and sauna. Services are provided by Swiss skincare experts and include a signature 90-minute Majestic Mirror facial designed especially for Le Grand Contrôle.

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This luxurious new experience is nothing short of fit for royalty! Let’s discuss planning a visit as part of your return to France. Whether you’ve seen Versailles before or this is a first occasion, we’re happy to help make this an experience to remember and discuss the best way to pair your stay with a larger excursion in Paris, wine country, or other neighboring countries.

Written by Michaela Barrett for Lily Pond Luxury.

New & Noteable

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The infinity pool and pool bar at Kalesma Mykonos.

Greece is hot hot hot this summer. One of the first to re-open to American travelers, all eyes are on this multi-island marvel, a perfect blend of historic splendor and beach/party/romance. There truly is something for everyone, as each island brings its own unique personality to play.

A luxury suite with a view of the Aegean Sea at Kalesma Mykonos.

Guests looking for style and sophistication with a vibrant nightlife should consider making a stop in Mykonos. The Kalesma Mykonos doesn’t disappoint. The resort seeks to immerse guests in the uniquely luxurious and earthly atmosphere that the region historically represents. Aleomandra, where the hotel is situated, is said to have been home to the Olympian god Apollo’s horses’ stables. As such, Kalesma, which means “inviting” in Greek, combines the myths of the region with a deep respect for the earth, and heartfelt Mykonian hospitality.

The Rooms

The exclusive hotel pays careful attention to design, and with only 25 luxury suites and two larger villas, guests will experience a deeply immersive and personally curated stay. The Cycladic-inspired architecture fuses modern elements and locally sourced materials to create a meticulous and luxurious aesthetic experience, while remaining comfortable and unpretentious. All suites have a private patio that provides unobstructed views and full-sized personal heated pools.

The Experience

The Pere Ubu restaurant at the peak of the hotel’s property has panoramic views of the surrounds.

The hotel seeks to engage all five senses. With breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, comforting sounds of nature, earthly textures incorporated into the décor, tastebud-inspiring flavors, and enticing aromas, this mission is exceptionally accomplished. Set on five acres of land, guests can stroll along the sandy shores or wander along the hillside bursting with herbs and wildflowers. Pere Ubu is a Greek restaurant perched on the peak of the property with unrivaled panoramic views of the sea. There is also a pool bar that serves cocktails and small bites, located centrally at the hotel’s infinity pool. Private dining experiences are also available in guests’ accommodation.

For guests looking to reconnect with their body, private in-room spa, and fitness services are also available. A dedicated spa that is set to open in 2022 is still in the works, but for now, clients have the option of receiving face and full-body treatments in other peaceful settings, or from the comfort of their own suite. Yoga and Pilates sessions are also available from the privacy of guests’ suites, or outside on the private terraces, upon request.

We’d love to design a visit to Kalesma as part of a larger Grecian escape, with perks including customized beach club service, private boat tours, and more – no dream is too big or too small. Reach out today! 

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Written by Michaela Barrett for Lily Pond Luxury.

New & Noteable

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St. Regis has a reputation for luxury, and its most recent addition in Bermuda will not disappoint. With close attention to design, an 18-hole golf course, a spa and a casino, the resort brings a new level of sophistication to the island’s hotel presence. Combining these features with its unique and spectacular location, the resort is going to quickly become a client favorite, joining properties like Rosewood Bermuda, The Loren and more as must-visits while on island.

Here’s what to know before you go:

The Rooms

With 120 guest rooms, including 21 suites and two and three-bedroom residences (perfect for families!), the St. Regis Bermuda offers its typical tailored services that make it such a special experience. The design channels local traditions and geography with its own sophisticated charm to create an atmosphere emblematic of Bermuda.

Dining & Onsite Amenities

This is the hotel’s international restaurant.

There’s ample opportunity to unwind and enjoy the beautiful St. Catherine’s beach. With a few on-site dining options, you will have a choice of light coastal food, steakhouse offerings, and light-bites at the bar - which will debut its locally inspired take on the brand’s signature Bloody Mary, the Gates Bay Mary. Further on-site amenities include a family pool and an adult pool, a spa, and a 24-hour fitness center. For parents that want some time to themselves, the hotel has both a casino and a golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones.

The Location

Located in St. George’s, a town named as a UNESCO world heritage site for being the oldest town of English inhabitance in the New World, there are a myriad of historical attractions in the area. St. Peter’s Church is the oldest Anglican church that has been in continuous use outside of the British Isles and is a five-minute drive from the resort. Fort St. Catherine was originally constructed in 1614 and has transformed into a museum that portrays how it has been used to defend the island at various intervals since. It can be found just steps from the resort. The northern part of Bermuda is more historic in nature; most shopping and dining is located in Hamilton, where other luxury properties make their homes.  

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COVID Policies, When to Go, and More

As of the time of publication, Bermuda requires a few hoops for travelers. There is a Travel Authorization fee ($75 per adult) as well as negative PCR results taken within 4 days of arrival. There is also a testing requirement on days 4, 8 and 14 of the stay.  

Bermuda is an ideal escape from May through October; it has weather similar to Coastal North Carolina and can be easily accessed from most East Coast cities.

Perks & More

Through year’s end, St. Regis Bermuda is offering a 4th night free, combinable with our existing client perks of breakfast for two per room daily, a $100 one-time resort credit, upgrade if available, and early check-in and late check-out.  

If you’re interested in finding out more about this highly anticipated new destination reach out and we’re happy to assist!

Written by Michaela Barrett for Lily Pond Luxury.

Updated Service Offerings

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If there’s one thing I’m hearing, it’s that you are eager to travel in 2021, or as soon as circumstances permit you to do so safely. 

We’re excited to help you do so in style, and that’s why we are introducing three new types of trips for your planning pleasure. And for those who love our signature services – don’t worry, they’re not going anywhere – you’ll find a brief refresher at the end of what we provide. 

DREAM DESIGNER

The Dream Designer is the perfect experience for the couple, family, or even solo traveler looking to plan for their “travel health” in 2021 and beyond. Much like planning for retirement, travel is something that many of our clients build into their annual budgets.

While experiences like safaris, villa rentals and major sporting event tickets can certainly be arranged at your convenience thanks to our connections, for best rates and space, it’s best to plan ahead.

The Dream Designer lets you practice annual, medium or long-range planning to best organize your travel goals, budget, and schedule. Plan for the next year, milestone anniversaries, a family “wish list” or a post-retirement grand tour. It’s your dream – we just help you plan for it.

The ultimate deliverable is a customized calendar (with optional reminders), inspiration list, and targeted content to get you excited and ready to travel.  

PERFECTLY PLANNED

While many clients love the planning process, others prefer a bit more of a surprise element. Whether it’s a partner looking to surprise someone with a great weekend away, a memorable anniversary, or milestone birthday, we’re happy to work “in secret” and deliver you a Perfectly Planned itinerary, packaged as a gift to your intended recipient.

We’ll even help you deliver the news in style, whether it’s a suitcase of curated clothes chosen by one of our stylist partners, or a great inspiration box of goodies to help you get excited for the trip.

Simply provide dates, a budget, and a mood, and we’ll do the rest, be it booking everything and handing you the tickets, or putting together several choices to let you choose your own adventure.  

POINTS, PLEASE

We’ve long had clients inquire about how to best utilize their points, be it for air, hotels, or anything in-between. We’re happy to say that after many years of searching, we’ve found the perfect partner for these needs, and can now offer this for our clients. Simply let us know how many and what type, and we’ll marry it into any of the above or our signature full-service planning experience.

SIGNATURE SERVICE

Most of you have experienced our signature services already, which includes everything from initial consultation to trip design, custom in-app itineraries, and full-service planning for accommodations, air, activities and more. We’ve long offered services ranging from private jet and yacht procurement to special event and attraction ticket purchases and can almost always add valuable extras to your stay, including breakfast, credits, upgrades and more.

Today’s traveler has even greater need for an advisor’s expertise, as we help navigate the changing world of insurance policies, COVID-19 pre- and post-trip testing, and, in some cases, multi-month trips for our digital nomad travelers. No ask is too big, or too small. 

New & Notable

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Where is your passport welcome in the wake of COVID-19?

While not all clients are itching to use their passports, we wanted to proactively offer up a list of spots that are currently accepting American travelers. This list is current as of November 4, 2020 and meant as inspiration only; we are happy to speak directly with clients inquiring about future trips or holiday travel.

New Details

ANGUILLA

Visitors must complete an application form at www.ivisitanguilla.com to initiate the approval process. Negative COVID-19 RT PCR test taken no less than 3 days and no more than 5 days of arrival in Anguilla. A rapid PCR test will be taken on arrival in Anguilla, followed by another COVID-19 PCR test on day 10 or 14 of your stay in place accommodations. All persons are required to provide insurance which covers COVID-19 medical cost and full hospitalization, doctors' visits, prescription, and air ambulance. All visitors must wear a facial covering during transit and through ports of entry in and out of Anguilla.

When in Anguilla...

Visitors must undergo regular temperature testing and house monitoring. All visitors are required to stay in place at their certified hotels and villa for at least 10 days.

Vacation in Place- visitors must stay at hotel/villa

Visitors staying 5 or less days

$300 single, $500 per couple, $300 main applicant + $250/family member

Visitors staying 6 days to 3 months

$400 single, $600 per couple, $400 main applicant + $250/family member

This fee covers two (2) tests per person, surveillance and costs associated with the additional public health presence.

On November 15th , 2020, the sea shuttle services from the St. Maarten-Anguilla Ferry Terminal, located across from the Princess Juliana Airport (SXM), will once again operate into the Blowing Point Ferry Terminal on Anguilla. Calypso Chatters, Funtime Charters and GB Express are among the certified and approved companies authorized to resume the 25-minute private and semi-private shuttle services between Sint Maarten and Anguilla.

Hotel Reopening Dates

• Open - Belmond Cap Juluca

• November 14 - Cuisinart Golf Resort & Spa

• December 17 - Malliouhana

• Open - Quintessence Hotel

• December 15 - The Reef

• December 14 - Zemi Beach House Resort & Spa

New Details

ANTIGUA

All passengers arriving by air MUST have a negative covid-19 RT-PCR (real-time polymerase chain reaction) test result, taken within seven (7) days of their flight (children under 12 years of age are not required to have a negative covid-19 RT-PCR test result). This includes transiting passengers. Passengers arriving by sea are subject to quarantine according to guidelines issued by Port Health Authorities.

All arriving passengers or the head of a family will need to complete a health declaration form issued on your flight, to be shared with Port Health Authorities. A series of assessments will be undertaken by the Quarantine Authority or an authorized health officer, including interviews based on the completed Health Declaration Form, temperature checks and the intended place of stay to determine if persons should be tested on arrival. There is a cost of US$100 for the test on arrival.

Those staying at Jumby Bay Island must stay on the island.

www.visitantiguabarbuda.com

Curfew 11 pm - 5 am daily until December 31

Hotel Reopening Dates

• Open - Carlisle Bay

• Open - Curtain Bluff

• Open- Hermitage Bay

• November 7- Jumby Bay Island

New Details

BAHAMAS

Visitors must obtain a COVID-19 RT PCR (swab) test five (5) days prior to arrival (name and address of the lab, where the test was performed, must be clearly displayed on the test result). Children age 10 and under are exempted.

Once in possession of a negative COVID-19 RT PCR test, apply for a Bahamas Health Travel Visa at https://travel.gov.bs/international .

Fees for the Bahamas Health Travel Visa, inclusive of Day 5 Rapid Antigen Test and mandatory health insurance, are as follows:

$40 – Visitors staying up to four nights and five days.

$60 – Visitors staying more than four nights.

Free - Children 10 years and under

For the duration of the visit, complete a daily online health questionnaire for symptom tracking purposes. Take a COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test on Day 5 of the visit (unless departing on day 5). Always wear a mask and always social distance in public places.

Beginning November 14, all visitors will be required to opt-in to mandatory COVID-19 health insurance when applying for their Health Travel Visa. The insurance will cover travelers for the duration of their stay in The Bahamas.

Hotel Reopening Date

• Open- Albany

New Details

BARBADOS

Guests must arrive with a negative Covid-19 PCR test 72 hours before arrival. Guests will need to fill out immigration / customs form and upload negative test results at www.travelform.gov.bb (take a copy of your results with you at the airport). All arriving passengers must wear a mask and will have an automatic temperature check on arrival. Airport officials will validate your test results and guide you through Immigration & Customs and Baggage Claim. A trained service provider will transport you to your accommodation where you will quarantine for the next 2 days as a 2nd test is required 4-5 days after your first test which was taken in your home country (result return time of approximately 24 hours). Associated fees for the 2nd test will vary based on your specific requirements and the relevant service providers (Please contact your accommodation management regarding available options).

Once a negative result is given, visitors will no longer be restricted to the property and can explore the island. A mask will be mandatory and businesses will have a hand sanitation area as well as a temperature check.

Hotel Reopening Date

• Open - Sandy Lane

New Details

CANOUAN

Must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test result done 5 days before arrival. Visitors must register 24 hours prior to arrival at https://stv.servicedx.com/formmgmt/travelform and send their negative result and their passport bio page directly to coronavirustaskforcesvg@gov.vc (please arrive with a printed copy of the result and completed arrival form in English)

Travelers will have a COVID-19 PCR test done on arrival as well as clinical assessment, testing would be approximately US$75 per person.

Must arrive with proof of a fully paid reservation in a government-approved hotel for five (5) nights where you will be quarantined. Will be tested and quarantined in the hotel room or villa until results are received. Once clearance is given, travelers can enjoy the resort facilities.

Hotel Reopening Dates

• Open- Canouan Estate Resort & Villas

• Open- Mandarin Oriental Canouan

New Details

DOMINICA

Travelers must submit a health questionnaire online at least 24 hours prior to arrival at http://domcovid19.dominica.gov.dm/ . Upload a negative PCR test result where samples were obtained within 1-3 days prior to arrival.

Travelers must present the following to airlines prior to boarding and upon disembarkation:

Negative PCR test result where samples were obtained within 1-3 days

Notification of health clearance to travel

Rapid Diagnostic Test will be administered on arrival. If positive a PCR test will be administered and a traveler must wait in a government-approved facility for results (at travelers’ expense).

Hotel Reopening Dates

• Open- Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski

• Open- Secret Bay

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Travelers no longer required to present a COVID-19 test certificate. Complimentary travel & health insurance will be granted to every visitor until December 31, 2020.

Curfew 7 pm-5 am Monday-Friday and 5 pm-5 am Saturday & Sunday

Nationwide curfews do not apply while you are on the property

Hotel Reopening Dates

• Open- Amanera

• Open- Casa de Campo

• Open- Eden Roc Cap Cana
  

New Details

GRAND CAYMAN

Anticipating the opening of borders on January 1, 2021

More information to follow.

Hotel Reopening Date

• January 1st- Kimpton Seafire

New Details

GRENADA

Must have a negative COVID-19 test taken within 7 days before travel (children 5 & under are except). Visitors are required to have a minimum 5-night reservation at an approved hotel. On day 4 visitors have the option of getting retested to be allowed to leave the hotel (with a negative result- takes 1-2 business days) or remain at the hotel for the duration of the vacation.

Fill out online pre-travel information at https://covid19.gov.gd/ (including acceptance of the Waiver Of Liability Agreement) and upload relevant documentation, if required (copy of negative PCR test, proof of confirmed reservations, AND payment for 5 nights).

Download Ronatrac Mobile App contact tracing app and register prior to travel, the app is not available for iPhone users yet, and they are currently exempt from this requirement.

Hotel Reopening Date

• Open- Silversands Grenada

New Details

JAMAICA

All international travelers must have a Travel Authorization (https://travelauth.visitjamaica.com/) obtained before departure. Both the Travel Authorization and the Test Certificate must be valid on the date of arrival into Jamaica. Travel Authorizations are valid for 10 days from the date of approval. All residents of the USA who are 12 years of age or over, will be required to obtain an Antigen Test or COVID-19 RT-PCR Test. The test should be conducted within 10 days of the intended travel date at a medical laboratory that is accredited by the relevant national health authorities. Antibody tests & results from home-based test kits will NOT be accepted. Face coverings are mandatory to wear in public places.

Visit https://travelauth.visitjamaica.com/ prior to traveling

Curfew lifted

Hotel Reopening Dates

• Open- Golden Eye

• Open- Round Hill Hotel & Villas

• Open- Tryall Club

PUERTO RICO

Travelers entering Puerto Rico must fill out a Travel Declaration Form through the Puerto Rico Health Department’s online portal (https://app.travelsafe.pr.gov/), get a molecular COVID-19 test (nasal or throat swab) no more than 3 days prior visiting the Island, and show proof of a negative result or they must quarantine until the traveler provides proof of a negative result. Travelers must obtain an Airport Exit Confirmation number & QR Code, which is automatically received when uploading their molecular test results to the Puerto Rico Health Department’s online portal.

Curfew 10 pm - 5 pm until November 13

For travelers that are connecting in Puerto Rico on their way back to United States, as long as they do not spend over 24 hours in Puerto Rico, they are not required to quarantine upon their return to the United States if their home state has placed Puerto Rico on their quarantine list.

Hotel Reopening Dates

• Open- Dorado Beach, a Ritz Carlton Reserve

• Open- St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort

New Details

ST. BARTH

Negative COVID-19 RT PCR test was taken within 3 days of arrival flight. If staying for more than 7 days, the traveler will be required to take another test while on the island (cost 150 EUR). Transit passengers in St Martin are required to fill out an entry form (requested for arrival & departure) Electronic Health Authorization System (EHAS) (https://stmaartenehas.com/application-form/)

Guests traveling via private charters to St Barth OR via Puerto Rico to St Barth will have to fill up a form for tracking purposes.

Mandatory mask for everyone over the age of 6 everywhere that has a shop, a school or an administration. Maximum of 6 people per dining table and guests will have to leave all phone numbers, names and email for tracking purposes

Hotel Reopening Dates (reopening from regular seasonal closure)

• Open - Cheval Blanc St. Barth Isle de France

• Open - Eden Rock St. Barth

• November 25- Christopher St. Barth

• Open - Hotel Barriere Le Carl Gustaf

• Open - Hotel Manapany

• Open - Le Toiny St. Barth

• Open - Le Barthelemy Hotel & Spa

• December 17- Le Sereno Saint Barthelemy

• Open - Villa Marie

• Open- Villas

ST. KITTS & NEVIS

Complete the entry form on the national website (www.knatravelform.kn) and submit a negative PCR test completed within 72-hours of travel from an accredited laboratory (List of accredited labs to be provided by the Ministry of Health, at a later date). Undergo a health screening at the airport which includes a temperature check and a health questionnaire.

Download the SKN COVID-19 contact tracing mobile app (to be used for the first 14 days of travel or less).

• 1-7 days: visitors are free to move about the hotel property, interact with other guests and partake in hotel activities.

• 8-14 days: visitors will undergo a PCR test (USD 100, visitors’ cost) on day 7. If the traveler tests negative on day 8, they are allowed, through the hotel’s tour desk, to book select excursions and access select destination sites (list to be announced later).

• 14 days or longer: visitors will need to undergo a PCR test (USD 100, visitors’ cost) on day 14, and if they test negative the traveler will be allowed to integrate into St. Kitts and Nevis.

Hotel Reopening Dates

• Open - Four Seasons Resort Nevis

New Details

ST. LUCIA

All arrivals (5 years and over) must have a negative result from a PCR test taken no more than 7 days before arrival in Saint Lucia. The test result must be submitted by email before traveling to TravelSaintLucia@gmail.com. Print and travel with a copy of your test results, the auto-response email from the form submission and the TRAVEL AUTHORIZATION LETTER that you will receive

All arrivals 18 years and older must complete (1) A Travel Registration form (online – 7 days before travel, print and travel with a copy of the auto-response email) and (2) a Health Screening form (download, print and travel with the completed form)

If your booking is last-minute, (fewer than 7 days prior to travel), fill out the online travel authorization form as above. The auto-generated confirmation email that you will receive immediately after submission should then be forwarded to travelinfo@stlucia.org

All arrivals must receive (and travel with a printed copy of) a letter of authorizing travel to Saint Lucia based on Verified reservations at a COVID-19 certified property

Hotel Reopening Dates

• Open- Jade Mountain

• Open- Sugar Beach a Viceroy Resort

• Open- Cap Maison

New Details

ST. MAARTEN

Will need a negative COVID-19 RT PCR test taken (Antibody or Antigen Tests will not be accepted) within 5 days of arrival flight and travel insurance. The original result of this test must be uploaded as soon as possible as part of the health authorization application procedure in order to be processed. Processing takes 6-8 hours. Children age 10 and under are exempted from the mandatory rt-PCR test. If health authorization is pre-approved, you will receive a (printable) authorization via e-mail, which must be presented to the health and immigration authorities upon arrival. The original rt-PCR test result should be presented to the health authorities upon request.

For travelers originating from a high-risk country; 14 consecutive days of self-monitoring of body temperature and possible flu-like symptoms is mandatory. Travelers in this category will receive an automated daily email for 14 days providing a link for submitting the required information online. If you are remaining for a shorter term on the island, you will have to submit the information for the time you are on the island.

All visitors must register at https://stmaartenehas.com/application-form/ before arriving. Border between St. Maarten and St. Martin has reopened.

Hotel Reopening Date

• December 1- Belmond La Samanna

New Details

TURKS & CAICOS

Negative COVID-19 RT PCR test within 5 days of arrival flight for all travelers (children younger than 10 are exempt). Travel insurance that covers COVID-19 in-country medical treatment, the cost of quarantine, and repatriation/medivac is also mandatory. A traveler may begin the application process 72 hours prior to arrival in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Visitors must register at www.turksandcaicostourism.com before arriving.

A nightly curfew has been reimposed until November 16, 2020, from 12 AM - 5 AM. Restaurants must close at 11 PM daily.

Hotel Reopening Dates

• Open- Amanyara

• Open- Beach Enclave

• Open- COMO Parrot Cay

• Open- Grace Bay Club

• Open- The Palms

• Open- The Shore Club

• Open- Wymara Villas

New Details

VIRGIN GORDA

Visitors may begin to arrive at the Terrance B. Lettsome Airport (EIS) on Tortola from December 1, 2020. Prior to travel, guests are to visit the BVI Gateway Online Portal to complete a travel declaration and upload proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 5 days prior to travel as well as proof of medical insurance that includes coverage for COVID-19. Approval will come in the form of a BVI Gateway Traveler Authorization Certificate and upon arrival at the new Welcome Center in the airport, officials will perform health screening including a temperature check and COVID-19 PCR test.

Visitors are asked to recover from their travels and unwind in the luxury of their villa or suite while awaiting the results of the airport-administered test - this should take no more than 24 hours and means they are not waiting for results at the airport. Visitors are required to download a contact tracing app to their cellular phone or, in place of that, purchase a wearable device (tracking bracelet).

There is a mandatory 4-day quarantine period in the resort, another COVID-19 PCR test is required to be able to leave the resort.

More information on this will be forthcoming.

Hotel Reopening Dates

• December 4- Little Dix Bay

• December 1- Oil Nut Bay

New Details

COSTA RICA

Negative RT PCR test will no longer be required. Travelers will still be required to complete Costa Rica's electronic Health Pass which asks for information on travel plans and show proof of travel insurance from either a national Costa Rica insurer or another provider that covers COVID-19 expenses.

In the case of international insurance, tourists must request from their insurer a certification issued in English or Spanish, noting: 1) the validity of the policy during the dates of visit to Costa Rica, 2) guarantee of coverage for medicals expenses in cases of COVID-19 related medical treatment in the amount of 50,000 USD and, 3) minimum coverage of 2,000 USD for extended lodging expenses due to COVID-19 related illness. It is also possible to purchase a Costa Rican medical insurance policy through the National Insurance Institute (INS) or Sagicor of Costa Rica, covering the duration of your stay in Costa Rica.

Hotel Reopening Dates

• November 12- Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica

• Open - W Costa Rica Reserva Conchal

• Open - Nayara

MEXICO

No restrictions if flying to/from the country

Hotel Reopening Dates

East Coast

• Open- Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya

• Open- Banyan Tree Mayakoba

• Open- Belmond Maroma Resort & Spa

• Open- Chable Maroma

• Open- Chable Resort & Spa

• Open- Grand Velas Riviera Maya

• Open- Hotel Esencia

• Open- Nizuc Resort & Spa

• Open- Rosewood Mayakoba

• Open- Viceroy Riviera Maya

West Coast

• Open- Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita

• Open- St. Regis Punta Mita Resort

• Open - One&Only Mandarina

Los Cabos

• Open- Chileno Bay Resort & Residence

• Open- Esperanza an Auberge Resort

• Open- Grand Velas Los Cabos

• Open- Las Ventanas al Paraiso

• Open- Le Blanc Spa Resort

• Open- Montage Los Cabos

• Open- Nobu Los cabos

• Open - One&Only Palmilla

• Open- Solaz, a Luxury Collection Resort

• Open- Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal

• Open- Zadun, a Ritz Carlton Reserve

The above information is based on current requirements for US citizens and is subject to change at any time. Health forms can be downloaded on the websites provided. Additionally, all travelers are required to provide original versions of the negative test results upon arrival. Travelers should be ready to be screened before entering the arrivals area at the intended destination as well as while in transit.

Those experiencing symptoms must quarantine in their accommodations until they receive a negative result. They may also be taken to a government facility and treated for at least 14 days at their cost (housing/medical).

Masks are widely required in public spaces.

Please refer to your state's official government website for up to date return travel protocols.

Final Thoughts

Should you travel? This is a deeply personal choice. We’re always here to guide you through the best ways to do what you wish, safely and effectively. If you have questions about planning, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Exclusive Client Offer

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Unwind & Reconnect

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January 21-24, 2021

Miraval Berkshires:   $1,686, per person, double occupancy; $2,098 single occupancy

Miraval Arizona: $1,883 per person double occupancy; $2,296 single occupancy

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This EXCLUSIVE package includes:

• $175 nightly resort credit, per person to spend spa services, activities and private sessions

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• Complimentary shared shuttle transfers from Tucson/ Austin/ Hartford Airports

• Unlimited participation in select daily yoga, fitness, meditation, and wellness lectures

REACH OUT TO MCLEAN@LILYPONDLUXURY.COM TO BOOK; BOOK 3 OR MORE ROOMS FOR YOUR PARTY AND I WILL ADD AN EXTRA $100 CREDIT TO THE STAY.

Fine Print:  Rates are based on a 3-night stay and include all taxes and resort fees; valid for the Classic room category in Berkshires and Dreamcatcher Rooms in Austin and Arizona; and based on availability.  Must be 18 or older; please contact your Lily Pond Luxury® advisor directly to book.

New & Notable

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Where is your passport welcome in the wake of COVID-19?

While not all clients are itching to use their passports, we wanted to proactively offer up a list of spots that are currently accepting American travelers. This list is current as of August 21, 2020 and meant as inspiration only; we are happy to speak directly with clients inquiring about future trips.

In somewhat positive news, U.S. State Department has lifted its Level 4 global travel advisory.

Here are some options for current permitted travel, as well as brief details about what tests and restrictions are in place:

·         Antigua & Barbuda – visitors will need to provide a negative PCR test less than 7 days old, and there is medical screening on arrival.

·         Aruba – you must show a negative PCR test from the last 72 hours, plus you must purchase travelers’ insurance on arrival.

·         Bahamas – visitors need to quarantine for 14 days, plus you must show a negative PCR test to get the recently-instituted health visa for visitors.

·         Bermuda – before travel, you must pay a $75 fee and online application before the flight, which covers your test on arrival, but you can avoid this test if you provide a negative PCR test within 7 days before arrival.

·         Brazil – travel restrictions were lifted on July 29, and visitors must provide medical & travel insurance; additionally, some airports remain closed (but not the major international airports), and no land borders are open.

·         Croatia – to enter Croatia, you must show a negative PCR test no more than 48 hours old.

·         Dominica – flights resumed on August 7, and visitors must show a negative PCR test from the last 3 days, complete an online questionnaire 24 hours or more before arrival, and there are health checks on arrival.

·         Dominican Republic – international airports reopened July 1, but land/sea borders are closed; there is medical screening and a questionnaire on arrival, choose between showing a negative PCR test from the last 5 days or pay them to do one.

·         French Polynesia – visiting locations like Tahiti & Bora Bora is possible if you have a negative PCR test and provide proof of travel/health insurance.

·         Jamaica – those coming from the more affected states in the U.S. require a negative PCR test from the past 10 days, and all visitors must obtain online travel authorization, plus undergo screening on arrival.

·         Maldives – fill out a health declaration, and you must have pre-booked hotel reservations and remain on one property.

·         Mexico – fill out a health questionnaire to visit.

·         St. Lucia – you need a negative PCR test no more than 7 days old, complete pre-arrival paperwork, and book hotel reservations at authorized locations in adance.

·         St. Vincent & The Grenadines – show a negative PCR test from the last 2 days or take one on arrival; alternatively, show a negative antibody test from within the last 5 days, and everyone must complete pre-trip paperwork and screening on arrival.

·         Tanzania – to visit, you must undergo medical screening, fill out a questionnaire, and possibly undergo government quarantine at your own expense, if you show symptoms or test positive.

·         Turkey – restrictions were lifted June 12, and visitors are subject to a medical screening on arrival.

·         Turks & Caicos – to visit, show a negative PCR test from the past 5 days, then apply through their portal for approval to visit, plus you need proof of insurance and a completed questionnaire.

·         Ukraine – visitors must have medical insurance that covers coronavirus-related medical issues, and you may quarantine at a location of your own choosing if arriving from a red zone country and subject to quarantine. Also, you must purchase a Ukraine-based SIM card for your phone and install a government contact tracing app on arrival. Avoid the quarantine restrictions by showing a negative PCR test no more than 48 hours old.

·         United Arab Emirates – you can only visit the Dubai emirate, and arriving to Dubai via AUH Abu Dhabi airport is possible only with a pre-arranged visa from Dubai. Visitors must complete a health form, provide health insurance, install an app, and show a negative PCR test from within the past 96 hours.

·         Western Sahara – there are no restrictions to visit this self-declared state next to Morocco and Mauritania.

Final Thoughts

Should you travel? This is a deeply personal choice. We’re always here to guide you through the best ways to do what you wish, safely and effectively. If you have questions about planning, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Itineraries

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MEXICO’S CARIBBEAN COAST SHAKES THINGS UP (NOT JUST COCKTAILS) MAKING THEIR WHITE SANDY BEACHES AN EXQUISITE (and socially distanced) ESCAPE FOR ALL.

Nizuc offers plenty of social distancing spots, plus three beaches.

Just over an hour after clearing customs, we were settled in poolside, sipping tequila and gazing out over calm Caribbean waters and white sands that stretched as far as the eye could see.

It was easy to wonder why people even bother at all with Florida, when the only hassle of this easy escape is packing a passport. The benefits of stunning, oversized rooms with private pools, superior service and true serenity was completely at odds with the area’s reputation for raucous spring breakers.

Riviera Maya, the vast area that starts south of Cancun and stretches all the way down to Tulum, is a hotbed of luxury activity along Mexico’s Caribbean coast.

Just a four-hour flight from NYC, you’ll find a simple weekend away, a no-fuss holiday getaway or a streamlined spring break that lets you do everything you wish... or nothing at all.

HAUTE HOTELS

Much like its Mexican rival, Los Cabos, Riviera Maya boasts its fair share of high- end hotels, each tailored to a unique demo- graphic. Depending on the occasion there are a stunning array of options.

COMPLIMENTARY AMENITIES FOR LPL GUESTS AT Nizuc:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Daily Full breakfast, for two guests per bedroom served in Restaurant

• One-way airport transfer (valid on arrivals only)

• Hydrotherapy session for two, once during stay

• Welcome Amenity in suite: a bottle of tequila and dried fruit

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

For the weekend getaway, choose Nizuc. The 274-room resort offers the amenities of a larger property with the privacy and serenity you’ll usually find reserved for small boutique hotels, thanks to its unique design as a complex of villas and generous rooms (starting from 700 square feet) nestled on 29 acres of protected mangroves. You’d never know it was just 15 minutes from the airport.

Opt for the 2,430-square foot Garden Villa, which offers an oversized private pool, out- door living area and butler service. It’s a worth-it splurge. No matter how short your stay, it’s easy to fill your days or do nothing at all, thanks to six restaurants, two bars, three pools and two beaches, one of which is adults-only. Nizuc also features an ES- PA-branded spa with the best hydrotherapy circuit we’ve tried in years, complete with gratis hand, scalp and arm massage. Use of the facility comes complimentary with treatments of 50 minutes or more.

For dining, Asian-fusion Indochine is one of our favorite restaurants in the area, with a mouth-watering miso-marinated sea bass and seriously good sushi. There’s also fine Mexican at Ramona.

Beautiful multi-bedroom villas at Rosewood Mayakoba are available.

You can’t go wrong with Mayakoba, also just 35 minutes from the airport. It’s a unique 1,600-acre complex of four luxury resorts, a replica Mexican village El Pueblito, and a Greg Norman-designed golf course all connected by a series of man-made lagoons and cenotes. It’s perfect for families, couples and multi-generational groups alike.

COMPLIMENTARY AMENITIES FOR LPL GUESTS AT rosewood, andaz and banyan tree mayakoba:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Daily Full breakfast, for two guests per bedroom

• $100 credit

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Perhaps the most luxe option is the Rosewood Mayakoba with its impeccable attention to detail and newly-refreshed rooms. However, we slightly prefer the sexy-for- couples-but-welcoming-for-families Banyan Tree Mayakoba, offering an Asian-inspired twist on Mexico. Rooms start at over 2,700 square feet and boast private pools so large that you may consider never leaving your room. Couples will want private living casitas at the Serenity Pool Villas while families will love the two- and three-bedrooms which offer rooftop pools. New villas will be completed in 2020 to add beachfront one- bedroom options as well. Don’t miss Banyan Tree’s Saffron, a delicious Thai standout that draws guests from as much as a 30-minute radius of the resort. Get the yellow curry; you won’t regret it. Rosewood also offers a well-attended beach barbecue on Thursdays that’s also worth the reservation. We love the street food fare at Aqui Me Quedo, which translates to “here I stay,” an apt name for the adults-only poolside spot at Rosewood where we easily spent a few afternoons noshing on tacos and spicy mezcal margaritas.

Another standout experience at Rosewood are regular Ceiba dinners, held weekly in slower seasons and more regularly when the hotel is full. Hosted by the resort’s managing director, guests are invited to gather, family- style, under the resort’s large Ceiba tree in the garden for a communal dinner of fresh and local fare. Limited to about 30 per night and attended by select resort staff as well as guests, it’s a great way to mingle a bit with other travelers in a relaxed atmosphere.

Hotel Esencia’s white sand beach.

Both resorts offer perks like gratis bikes for guests – conveniently labeled with your room number and left outside your door – and stellar five-star spas. The Banyan Tree’s Rainforest Indulgence is a must-try. The 150-minute experience is true decadence, starting with a completely private journey through the spa’s expansive rain showers, saunas and steam room with an eight-step process that involves everything from mud applications to ice baths and hair masks, before ending with a body scrub, Vichy shower and relaxing massage in one of 16 private spa bungalows. Therapists for the spa come from the resort’s other properties in Thailand and Bali, offering an exceptionally authentic taste of Banyan Tree’s Asian heritage.

Families may also want to consider the Fairmont and Andaz properties onsite, which offer top-notch stays at a slightly more forgiving price point. For lunch, we loved

Sotavento at Andaz, an easy beachfront spot that offers a break from Mexican with fresh, simple Mediterranean fare.

Don’t miss the complimentary boat tours, dubbed the Mayakoba Connection. They leave regularly from each resort’s main lobby and connect guests between resorts, as well as impress you with the wildlife and natural surroundings of the complex. You’ll learn from knowledgeable guides about the more than 100 species of birds, dozens of animals and more than a dozen crocodiles that live on property, as well as get a sneak peek of the more than 20 onsite dining options. If you want to visit El Pueblito, the village with shops and snack spots, play a round of tennis, or learn to make ceviche at the cooking school, you can also ask for a golf cart or evening SUV shuttle between resorts; the boats only run during daylight hours. There’s also a small chapel perfect for weddings or vow renewals.

COMPLIMENTARY AMENITIES FOR LPL GUESTS AT Belmond maroma, hotel escencia, chable maroma and viceroy riviera maya:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Daily Full breakfast, for two guests per bedroom

• $100 credit

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

There are a few other standouts in the area. For those who wish for a true “old Mexico” feel, opt for the private Hotel Esencia, an intimate escape that was once the private home of an Italian Duchess. Esencia also features a Michelin-starred chef formerly of Spain’s famed El Bulli. At a more accessible price, there’s Viceroy Riviera Maya, where each of the 41 rooms is an individual casita with private plunge pool. For a beachfront get- away, the Belmond Maroma is located on the best beach in the area and offers many rooms with gorgeous ocean views – a rarity along this stretch of Mexican coast as so many hotels specialize in lagoon or jungle view. Both Viceroy and Belmond regularly offer dining plans to make them more cost- inclusive.

Rooms at Viceroy Riviera Maya

We love all three of these properties. Esencia can easily be the most expensive in the area, but it’s quite remote, so it’s best for a couple’s escape where you don’t wish to leave the resort. Both Viceroy and Belmond offer a more “authentic Mexican” vibe, while still blending high-touch service and exceptional dining and spa offerings as well.

Speaking of all-inclusive, if you’ re traveling with a large family or friends, Grand Velas is an excellent option.

For a girlfriend getaway or wellness escape, we’d opt for the new Chablé Maroma, opened this spring. It’s the second property from the brand – the first is inland near Merida. Think of it as wellness lite; you can still enjoy plenty of tequila but also try a temazcal (a Mexican sweat lodge) or meditate under an

Alamo tree, a plant considered sacred to the Maya. Or, keep it simple with a familiar deep tissue massage and private yoga class. To get truly in touch with your inner hippie, head onward to Tulum, about 90 minutes from the Cancun airport, where options like Nomade or Be Tulum are as Insta-worthy as they are luxe. While here, try creative smoothie bowls at Matcha Mama, mezcal cocktails at Gitano (yes, the same one that’s in NYC) and farm-to-table fare at El Zorro Plateado.

SARGASSUM – IT (LITERALLY) STINKS

We’ d suggest checking the sargassum situation before booking. The unattractive and malodorous seaweed has been plaguing the Mexican and Caribbean coasts for years now. But don’t pass on the destination entirely. Resorts are doing their best to keep up but watching for live cams, checking with your travel advisor or calling the resort directly can keep you from disappointment. The sea- weed comes and goes, so you may see some one day and virtually none the next.

WORTH LEAVING THE RESORT

Truthfully, Riviera Maya makes for an easy fly n’ flop destination – and sometimes, that’s exactly what we need. For a long weekend, we’d suggest picking a complex with a few options for activities, like Mayakoba. New this season is a 55’ Van Dutch charter yacht, perfect for a full- or half-day trip out to Cozumel or a sightseeing tour for those who simply want to get off campus.

But if you wish to get out into the local culture, plan a day or half-day to sightsee with a driver/guide; every resort can arrange boat days or tours to major sites. If you’re visiting for a week or longer, resort hopping can also offer a nice change of scenery. We’d suggest mixing something like the new Chablé Maroma, which is geared toward wellness, with something a bit more foodie, like Nizuc, or pairing the remote Hotel Esencia with Rose- wood Mayakoba or Belmond Maroma.

Other attractions worth trying are Chicen Itza, the 1,200-year-old complex of pyramid- like Mayan Ruins, a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the new Seven Wonders of the World; try to go early to avoid the worst of the crowds. Prepare for a long day as it’s about a two-hour trip each way. Lesser ruins, like the Coba near Tulum, are slightly closer.

Another option is an early morning dip in one of the many local cenotes, natural underground water sources that create crystal clear pools teeming with wildlife.

We’d pass on the big clubs in Cancun – pretty much anything in the hotel district feels tourist – or venturing beyond the main drag of 5th Avenue in Playa Del Carmen. After all, who needs shopping or nightlife when white sand and clear water await?

WHEN TO VISIT

Riviera Maya is warm and sunny year-round, although, like any Caribbean climate, it’s prone to an occasional rainstorm. There’s no “bad” time to visit, but we usually skip travel from late June through October, when the chance of hurricanes is the highest, and the humidity and bugs put a damper on the fun.

THE PACKING LIST

Flowy caftans by Camilla, a stunning suit by Norma Kamali and a Eugenia Kim sun hat fit in nicely; for men, shorts + Swims by day and linen slacks and a button up (no need for a jacket) by night work just fine.

GETTING HERE

Daily nonstops are available from most destinations on the East Coast, with regular offerings from the West Coast and Midwest.

SAFETY FIRST

We often hear rumblings about safety concerns in Mexico. It’s a personal choice, of course, where you wish to travel, but we turned to the experts at Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report for a little extra insight:

Although travel alerts have been issued recently for the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, and specifically the resort city of Playa del Carmen, there is little immediate cause for alarm. There are no restrictions placed on U.S. government employees in the region, and travelers are urged only to “Exercise Increased Caution.” The incidents that have attracted attention have primarily been a result of turf war- fare between rival gangs.

In a post-COVID world, safety is a matter of both healthcare and preference, but we find Riviera Maya to be ideal given the large room spaces, ample outdoor dining, and sprawling resorts that make it easy to socially distance.

This story originally appeared and has since been updated from the Fall 2019 issue of Woodbury Magazine, where McLean writes quarterly travel journals.

Hotel, Inspected

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Blackberry Mountain

Traveling is intensely personal in even the best of times. In a post-COVID-19 world, the P-factor goes up even higher.

That’s why we feel lucky as your luxury travel advisor to be here as your trusted resource and guide to help make sure that when you choose to travel, be it next month or next year, that you do so in a way that feels authentic to your unique needs and desires.

We’re here to help you plan that dream vacation – be it for a honeymoon, a family getaway, or a break from nonstop work stress – at your time schedule.

That said, if you’re ready to go now, we have some ideas of local, drive-able, and most of all, distanced spots. These are places that may have been off of your list for a number of reasons in the past: they were too close, too far from a major city, or felt like they just needed a reason to splurge.

We have news for you: being alive and healthy is a reason to take that trip. Being able to reunite with your partner and family is a reason to take that trip.

And if you don’t want to take that trip today, we’re ready whenever you are – 2021 planning is already heating up as many travelers moved Spring Break and even early summer travel right into the next year, so booking early is key to securing reasonable rates and the best and most flexible policies.

For more information on the booking process, visit our post on working with a luxury travel advisor, and if you want our suggestions for planning in advance for new resort openings, we’ve got those too. We also post daily #LilyPondLux inspo over on Instagram if you just want to peruse pretty pictures for inspiration.

If you ARE looking to travel in the next few months, here are some ideas for inside-the-USA options that may be a perfect fit. These resorts have all planned to re-open for summer, and while many onsite activities remain TBD, we’ve confirmed that most plan to fully re-open with modifications for safety, security, and added cleanliness procedures.

We’ll add some suggestions soon for easy island adventures just outside the country as well.

Southern Charm

Whether you have kids or want to spend time with the extended family, each of these options has multiple generations covered. In many, you’ll also find options for private home rental (we’re happy to book these for you!) where you can socially distance as a small group, enjoying benefits like private chef services, golf carts, and more.

Montage Palmetto Bluff

A short drive from the Savannah airport, the Montage property is one of our all-time favorites for families and groups. It’s got quite the celebrity following too; Justin Bieber and Hailey Baldwin chose it as the site of their nuptials in 2019 as well.

Set within a planned 20,000-acre development, you’ll ditch your car the moment you arrive for a fleet of bicycles or golf carts and take in walking trails, a marina, two planned “Villages,” the tennis courts and a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. Spend your days kayaking, horseback riding, or simply reading a good novel on your front porch swing – the image at right is from one of our recent visits.

We love the rooms in the main Inn, but we prefer the cottage accommodations, which can be interconnected for families, or the private homes on property for a bit more privacy.

Complimentary for our Guests:

• Upgrade at time of booking, subject to availability

• $60 daily breakfast credit per bedroom, served in restaurant & In-Room Dining

• $100 USD Spa Services credit to be utilized during stay (not valid on products, not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full)

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

The Cloister at Sea Island

For nearly a century, Sea Island has drawn luxe southern families to its special blend of beach, golf, and water sports, as well as its world-class dining and hospitality. It’s a perfect spot for romance too – more than 40,000 couples have honeymooned here since the resort opened in 1928.

One of several properties that makes up the Sea Island group, the Cloister is the most “luxurious” of the options and our favorite for those who like a beach-oriented stay. Rooms are distinctively done with Moorish inspiration in the décor, and many renovations have been made in recent years to bring the resort up to today’s five-star standards.

We’d suggest the beach club rooms, which are closest to the water, for a summer stay, or the larger ocean villas, which are ideal for families who wish to stay together. 

Complimentary for our Guests:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Full a la carte or buffet breakfast daily in the restaurant for up to 2 guests per bedroom (max $70.00 per day)

• $100 resort credit that can be applied to any Sea Island amenity excluding accommodations, (Not valid at retail outlets or gift shops, including, but not limited to Sea Island Shop at the Cloister, Peter Millar Collection, The Spa Shop, Tennis Shop, Yacht Club River Shop, Surf Shop, Kids' Shop, Golf Club Pro Shop at the Lodge, The Market.)

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi 

Salamander Resort & Spa

Just 90 minutes from Washington DC, in the heart of Virginia Wine Country, this beautiful and pastoral resort is ideal for families and couples alike. Oversized rooms (many of which are also pet friendly) offer terraces, fireplaces for chilly nights, and connecting options. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll find plenty for everyone, from strolls down to the full-service equestrian facility to outdoor pools to giant outdoor chess sets, or the charming town of Middleburg.

Complimentary for our Guests:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Complimentary Full American Breakfast for two guests per bedroom daily (Breakfast is up to $30 per person per night. Brunch total cost is not inclusive, but $30 per person can be applied.)

• $100 USD Resort/Hotel credit, to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full, excludes cooking studio, valet)

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Glamping is Great

The American West has a wonderful allure, and in 2020, the added benefit of built-in social distancing. These dude ranches in Wyoming and Montana offer both private homes and glamping-style tents, mostly inclusive packages, and access for private aircraft. In our discussions with these properties, most plan to re-open most if not all services as planned, due to the nature of the activities already leveraging social distancing protocol. In many cases, homes can even be rented for longer-than-usual periods at discounted rates as well, should families wish to take a home for a month or more. We are far from adventurous travelers ourselves, and even we can say we appreciated the wide-open spaces, high-quality cuisine, and luxe amenities presented even in the glamping style tents. Should a full-service resort not appeal, we can also consult on options like ultra-luxe RV rentals, national park excursions, and private homes in many of these destinations or off-seasons ski areas such as Aspen and Park City as well.

The Resort at Paws Up

We love, if possible, combining a stay in a ranch home with a few nights in one of the glamping tents here. A cattle drive is also a favorite activity and ideal for teenage children as well as adults. For all new bookings between now and the end of June, enjoy an extra $500 towards guided activities with our compliments. They are still planning for some July 4th special activities as well.

Complimentary for Our Guests:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Daily full breakfast (included in rates)

• Complimentary round-trip private airport transfers

• Bottle of wine in room on arrival

• A $300 USD activity credit, to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)

• Early check-in, late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi 

Brush Creek Ranch

 With individual accommodations spread across 42 unique cabins, there’s plenty of privacy at Brush Creek Ranch, and many of the homes boast full kitchens as well. We also love this as an unexpected honeymoon retreat; their Magee Homestead portion of the property is reserved for guests 21 and up.

Complimentary for Our Guests:  

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Full breakfast served in Trailhead Lodge Great Room Dining Hall (included in rates)

• $150.00 per person (up to 2 paying adults per room) towards ANY premium activity of his/her choice (No cash value/nontransferable)

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi 

Ranch at Rock Creek

At just 26 distinct rooms and cabins, this small Montana resort is intimate in size (perfect for a buyout) but not at all small in activities or charm. Offering everything from fly fishing to horseback riding, guests can enjoy being outside most of each day, and return each evening to cuisine grown and raised locally on the ranch. 

Complimentary for Our Guests:  

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Daily full breakfast (already included in the all-inclusive price)

• One premium bottle of wine upon arrival

• $100 Ranch Credit (may be used at The Granite Spa or The Mercantile)

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability 

Triple Creek Ranch

The smallest of the ranch offerings at just 23 rooms, we love that Triple Creek, a Relais & Chateaux property, offers a number of small one-bedroom freestanding cabins, making it ideal for couples. Only children aged 16 and up are welcome here as well.  

Complimentary for Our Guests:  

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Full breakfast daily included in rates

• $100 USD Resort/Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Foodie Focused

Much like a ranch vacation, all of the luxurious resorts listed below are mostly if not totally inclusive, meaning food and drinks are built into the base price. They offer a wide array of outdoor activities, ranging from walking trails and fitness classes to gorgeously oversized cabins in stunning natural settings. Their distinctions are many (Twin Farms, for example, is adults only for most weeks of the year, and The Mountain caters to a slightly younger audience than sister property Blackberry Farm) but they are also uniquely positioned up and down the East Coast, with Twin Farms in Vermont, The Point in upstate New York, Blackberry Farm and Mountain in Tennessee and Inn at Dos Brisas outside of Houston, Texas (which is currently closed until September).

We’ve long loved these properties for great long weekend escapes (a three-night minimum is suggested or even required at most) and milestone birthdays, but they too often fall by the wayside for longer and further-flung trips. While none of these options are what we’d call budget-friendly, they’re well worth the splurge.

The Point

It’s worth noting that The Point, a former Great Camp in the Adirondack Mountains once frequented by the Rockefellers, is a throwback to an earlier era. Twice weekly, guests still enjoy group black-tie dinners, and the property offers a wide array of outdoor pursuits. Right now, it plans to re-open at the end of May, but programming is still TBD for summer.    

Complimentary for Our Guests:   

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Full breakfast daily included in rates

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi 

Twin Farms

Just outside of Woodstock, Vermont, we love this year-round gem that really caters to a food-focused traveler. While we prefer the “cottage” style accommodations to the main inn, there’s not a bad room in the house here. Our favorite feature is the in-room puzzles by local manufacturer Stave – they even feature puzzle-focused group events a few times each year.

Twice annually, they offer “family weeks” to accommodate little ones, and we suspect these will be extremely popular in 2020, normally children only aged 14 and up are permitted. Right now, the property has a planned reopening date of June 15.

Complimentary for Our Guests:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Daily full breakfast already included in the rates

• House-made honey with locally made pottery (value of $150 USD)

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

 Blackberry Farm & Blackberry Mountain

It’s rare for a discussion of a milestone event to pass without our clients mentioning these gorgeous sister properties in the Tennessee mountains. From truffle-hunting dogs and an onsite brewery to ample wellness programming and gorgeously oversized cabins, Blackberry Farm and Blackberry Mountain set the standard that many other five-star resorts aim to follow.

Both properties request if not require a three-night minimum stay, and “Camp Blackberry,” which welcomes travelers aged 4 and up, is a great way to get kids involved in the farm fun.

Complimentary for Our Guests:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Daily full breakfast (included in rates)

• $100 USD Spa Services credit, to be utilized during stay (not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full. Spa credit is not interchangeable with activity offerings or giftshop purchases).

• Welcome Amenity

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Celebrity Worthy 

Celebrities crave great service, but they also insist on privacy and discretion when they travel. After all, why travel if your home is nicer than your hotel? The below resorts are splurge-worthy in price, sure, but they also offer a combination of wow-worthy views, great service, and isolated locations that mean that both paparazzi and the ‘rona can’t track you down. 

Amangiri

The name Amangiri stands for “peaceful mountain,” and it’s absolutely true. Built into the Four Corners desert, this 34-room villa escape is the perfect front door to the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Bryce and Zion National Parks, and gorgeous Southwest landscapes.

Each of the suites provides spacious terraces with beautiful views, and many of the oversized rooms have private pools, fire pits, and outdoor spaces. A ten-minute drive away, the resort also has the new-ish Camp Sarika, a glamping experience perfect for a one- or two-night extension. 

Complimentary for Our Guests:

·       Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

·       Full breakfast daily for two guests per bedroom

·       Spa credit of $125 per person, once, for up to 2 guests, applicable to spa treatments scheduled between 9am-3pm

·       Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

·       Complimentary Wi-Fi

Dunton Hot Springs

If you’re a Westworld fan, Dunton Hot Springs is the place for you. This recreation Western Village is available for per-cabin or full buyout of its 13 unique accommodations (we like the Well House, with its private hot spring and wood-burning stove), making it the perfect place to distance in style. They also have a custom “river camp” available for Glamping.

Complimentary for Our Guests:

·       Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

·       Daily A La Carte Breakfast (all meals included in rates)

·       $100 USD Resort/Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)

·       Bottle of Sutcliffe Wine in room upon arrival

·       Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

·       Complimentary Wi-Fi 

Ventana Big Sur

Drive the California coastline and head down to Big Sur for a trip that’s as much about the joy of getting there as it is about the joy of being there. We love Ventana (which allows guests 18 and up only) for a couple’s weekend in luxury and nature. Perched 1,200 feet above one of the most dramatic stretches of the state’s Central Coast, the adults-only, rustically romantic resort has just completed a multimillion-dollar re-imagination. Ventana’s 59 guestrooms and suites are tucked amidst 160 acres of redwood forests and meadows; each features a private balcony or patio (book a Big Sur Spa Suite to enjoy a private hot tub). Spend your days hiking and exploring in nature, and your evenings relaxing by your private in-room fireplace or in your private hot tub.

Complimentary for Our Guests:

·       Upgrade at time of booking, subject to availability

·       Full breakfast daily for two guests per bedroom (up to $30 per person credit daily)

·       $100 USD Hotel/Resort credit to be used during stay excluding retail (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)

·       Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

·       Complimentary Wi-Fi

Beachy Keen

Beach travel is a must for summer. While we may not be partying it up in Ibiza or rocking with the crowds this summer on the Amalfi Coast, we’ll be exploring and indulging with a cocktail by a pool somewhere. We are more than happy to offer private home rentals in coveted areas like Nantucket and the Hamptons, or to look into your favorite resort in any coastal area. But here are a few options we particularly like for their private spaces and gorgeous views.

Sunset Key

We know, we know – you want to go to the beach. While Key West may seem like party central, we love the peace and quiet of Sunset Key, which is accessible only by a private ferry available from Key West. Each of the intimate cottages – which boast full kitchens and daily “breakfast basket” delivery – has a gorgeous private home feel, all with the relaxed and barefoot vibe Key West is known for. Rent one-, two-, three-, or four-bedroom cottages to invite as many (or as few) family members and friends as you wish. Spend your days on the white sand beach before enjoying the best views of the signature Key West sunset in the whole area. Just don’t pass up the chance to have a signature Key Lime Martini at Latitudes, one of the best restaurants in the area and the island’s only dinner destination.  

Complimentary for Our Guests:

• Cottage upgrade on arrival, subject to availability (excludes 1-bedroom cottages)

• Daily full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant.

• $100 USD Resort/Hotel credit, to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Ocean House

When we think of the beach, usually Rhode Island isn’t the spot that comes to mind first – but once you’ve seen Ocean House, you’ll never want to go anywhere else. There’s a reason that many of the Gilded Age elite made their summer homes in “cottages” in nearby Newport.

This beachfront resort offers 18 oversized signature suites, including several private homes and fully-furnished apartments right on property, as well as easy access to white-sand beaches, superior farm-to-table dining, and some of the best service we’ve experienced in the nation. For those who want the beauty of a private home with all of the services of a luxury resort, this would be our pick, hands down.  

Complimentary for Our Guests:

·       Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

·       Daily Continental breakfast for two guests per bedroom

·       $100 USD Resort/Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)

·       Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

·       Complimentary Wi-Fi

If you’d like more information on any of these resorts, or a customized consult and proposal, please reach out – we’re happy to discuss!

 

Itineraries

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Edinburgh Explorations

Upon arrival to Edinburgh (the easiest gateway from the U.S.), head directly for the top choice in the city— Balmoral, a Rocco Forte Hotel. Perfectly positioned on Prince’s Street, just moments from Waverly Station, the Victorian-era hotel evokes a castle—complete with turrets and moody stone. The iconic clocktower dome that’s visible from both the Old City and the New is a bonus way to find your bearings as you explore.  We’d suggest at least two nights, but if you wish to sightsee at a leisurely pace, three is ideal.

Complimentary Amenities for LpL Guests at The Balmoral:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Full Scottish breakfast daily for two guests per bedroom served in the restaurant

• $100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full)

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

A mix of classic and contemporary, the recently-renovated rooms boast a chicly-natural palette of greys and soft pastels by Olga Polizzi (sis to Sir Rocco, for whom the brand is named), with pops of green, brown and grey, meant to evoke the Scottish landscape, plus cheeky modern photos featuring Sean Connery as James Bond, and touches like luxe marble baths with heated towel bars and Asprey amenities.

Ask for a peek behind the purple door and owl-shaped knocker into the J.K. Rowling Suite, so named because the author finished Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows in the hotel. There's even a bust of Hermes signed by Rowling herself in the room. 

View from Camera Obscura on my tour with Ian Black.

Don’t linger too long—although it’s tempting, either over afternoon tea in the Palm Court or in the well-appointed spa, the largest in the city—as there’s much to explore. While a guide is certainly a great way to see the historic sites, we loved a slightly different take. Book top photographer and Insta influencer Ian Black for a two-hour photo safari (from GPB 150 for a half-day), and hit everything from aforementioned Calton Hill (a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts everything from Parliament to the unfinished National Monument, plus great views) to a stroll up the Royal Mile, an aptly named stretch of the Old City that stretches between the two royal residences, Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. While pointing out the best vistas (Camera Obscura, the highest point in the city and the town’s oldest tourist attraction) to historic facts (like a peek inside the Thistle Chapel, where the Queen bestows Scotland’s highest honor at St. Giles Cathedral) we found ourselves stopping for photographs along the rainbow-colored Victoria Street, pausing at various alleyways and walkways (known to the Scottish as “closes”) and ending at The Vennel, where you’ll be just below the famed Castle.

By afternoon, pick your poison – we’d opt for lunch at a spot near the hotel like Café Royal, a great spot for local oysters and seafood that’s been in business since 1826, before heading out to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, a working palace still houses the Queen and other members of the Royal Family during the annual “Royal Week” in Scotland each summer.  The self-guided audio tour takes 60 to 90 minutes, mixing everything from the majestic (yes, the Queen still receives in these rooms) to the macabre (bloodstains from a 16th-century murder). Then, head to Edinburgh Castle, which once served as the city’s primary fortress, as well as a royal residence until 1633. Today, it’s best utilized during the annual Edinburgh Military Tattoo, which takes place each August during the city’s robust festival period.

A view of the Balmoral Hotel from Princes Street.

Should you wish to take a break from the history books, Princes Street, where the hotel is located, offers a wealth of options for shopping, but we’d bypass the expected tourist destinations peddling tartan scarves and mass-market shortbread for a pop-into nearby Hamilton & Inches, a top jeweler in Edinburgh and the only place in the world where Scottish gold jewelry is available, as well as intricate silverworks made locally by a father and son team. For something a bit less precious, hit up Strathberry, beloved by the Duchess of Sussex, amongst others. Their bags feature Spanish leather, but all of these understated accessories are manufactured right in Edinburgh. For a bit of tweed to take your Scots style up a notch, hit Walker Slater (there are two, one for men and one for women) in the Old City, where you can outfit for a made-to-measure look or purchase off-the-rack.

Complimentary for LpL Guests at The Fife Arms:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Daily Full Scottish Breakfast for two guests per bedroom

• $100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full)

• Dean's Angus McCoo Shortbread

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

But for a real taste of Scottish handicraft, we’d ask the Balmoral to arrange a private session down in Leith (a trendy waterside neighborhood) with Araminta Campbell. The 30-year-old boasts her own studio with two 19th century looms, making alpaca and cashmere-based textiles ranging from luxe blanket wraps to custom-designed tartans and bedding. You can see the process at work or create a tweed or tartan for yourself (from 1500 GBP for the design session).  Like what you see? If you head to the Highlands, you’ll catch her fabrics at the over-the-top Victorian coaching inn turned haute hotel The Fife Arms in Braemar, home of the famous Highland Games, an annual test of strength and stamina attended by the royal family. 

While down in Leith, plan a quick tour of the Royal Yacht Britannia, which served as Queen Elizabeth’s royal yacht from 1954 to 1997 and hosted everyone from Nelson Mandela to Ronald Reagan.

A suite at the Fife Arms in Braemar.

Whiskey lovers will also want to pause for a dram at the Malt Whiskey Society. While it’s technically a private member’s club, the Vaults at Leith offers private tastings of limited-edition single malts – many of which can’t be found elsewhere. Find a flavor profile you love? Head back to Balmoral’s hotel bar, Scotch, for a sampling of 500+ rare and top-notch whiskeys to further refine your palate.

For dinner, don’t miss tried but true The Witchery by the Castle, which earns its name from the hundreds of “witches” burned at the stake in the 16th and 17th centuries on nearby Castlehill.  Today, it’s a romantic, candlelit fine dining experience located in a historic Old City close. For a post-dinner nightcap or more casual yet still elevated pub fare, stop by The Devil’s Advocate, a dimly lit cocktail bar in an old Victorian pump house.

Other options for a top-notch stay include The Caledonian, a Waldorf-Astoria hotel with great views of the Edinburgh Castle from more rooms than any other hotel in the city. For boutique options, we love The Scotsman, located in the original home of the newspaper bearing the same name, as well as Fingal, a luxury yacht turned 23 room floating hotel in Leith.  

As lovely as Edinburgh is, don’t make the mistake of thinking that you’re done. You can certainly pair with another city – Glasgow makes an easy secondary addition – but we’d recommend heading a bit further afield and exploring.

Pair another three to four nights with your chosen activities, including:

The Greatest Game

Invented in Scotland and documented as far back as the Middle Ages, and today, the country boasts more golf courses per population head than anywhere else in the world.  

Complimentary for LpL Guests at Gleneagles:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Full buffet Breakfast

• $100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not available in Restaurant Andrew Fairlie or in-room minibar, not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full)

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

While the Old Course at St. Andrews, which dates to 1574, is by far the country’s most famous, there’s great golf to be had almost anywhere you wish to go. For luxury that even a non-golfer can get behind, don’t miss a stay at Gleneagles, about an hour each from Glasgow and Edinburgh by car. The grand resort (which hosted the 2014 Ryder Cup and boasts four unique courses) dates to 1924 and still has a Roaring Twenties meets Scotland vibe. Dubbed “Riviera in the Highlands,” it’s a meticulously renovated grand resort in the very best sense of the word. 

Perfect for couples or the whole family, let the team of “playground planner” concierges fit you in Hunter boots and Barbour jackets to take part in an array of outdoor pursuits from clay shooting and fly fishing to off-roading in a custom-outfitted fleet of Land Rovers before unwinding in the ESPA-branded spa or indulging in a perfect gin martini prepped via table-side trolley at The American Bar. After all that activity, you’ll want to recap the day over a candlelit dinner at The Strathearn restaurant, where you’ll indulge in a tasting flight of smoked salmon or a theatrical table-side flambé of filet mignon, retiring sated and full to newly-renovated rooms done in thoughtfully muted earth tones with pops of brass, leather, and tweed. Book one of the Estate Rooms for the best views over the scenic Ochil Hills and grounds. It’s easy to fill your days with activities on the property, linger leisurely over afternoon tea (yes, they have an entire restaurant dedicated to it) or use the hotel as a home base for further explorations.

The American Bar at Gleneagles

Whiskey Wanderings

There’s no shortage of whiskey in Scotland with more than 120 active distilleries producing across five major regions. For a connoisseur, the country can’t be beaten. But for the rest of us, if you’ve seen one or two distilleries, you’ve seen them all. If you can head up north, one to make time to see is the newish Macallan distillery, in the heart of the country’s Speyside region. It took six years and more than $186 million to build, and today boasts 36 copper stills as well as nearly 1000 bottles of The Macallan dating back as far as 1936. Pair the visit with a base in Inverness (we love the newish Ness Walk hotel) and a bit of sightseeing like the famed Culloden Battlefield and of course, a trip to see if you can catch Nessie along the Loch Ness, the largest lake in the UK.

Can’t stand the smoky stuff? Not a problem. Gin is the country’s second-most-loved drink, with many local varieties offered in the form of spritzes, martinis and tonics, and local vodka (we loved Ogilvy) is also a treat. Gin elevates everything, from tea to happy hour, as does elderflower, another local herb often used in liqueurs.

Dining at Glenapp Castle

Highland Highlights

From the magnificent Ben Nevis, the country’s highest peak, to Cairngorms National Park, which offers some of the world’s best dark sky stargazing, to the iconic “Harry Potter” Jacobite Steam Train along the country’s western coast, it’s hard to head to Scotland feel like you’ve really seen it if you skip the Highlands.

Don’t miss a few days in the countryside, blending luxury hospitality at a spot like Inverlochy Castle, The Fife Arms or Cameron House (re-opening later this year) and take a few days time to see the country’s many castles, ruins, parks and more.

Speaking of castles, it’s hard to drive what feels like more than a mile without seeing a ruin or historic marker sign. While it’s tempting to pause at every spot, make time for a few major sites to avoid castle fatigue. We’d suggest Stirling Castle, about 30 minutes outside of Edinburgh, childhood home of Mary, Queen of Scots and yes, a fixture in movies like Braveheart. While you’re nearby, hit up Linlithgow Palace, her birthplace and a magnificent ruin, as well as Doune Castle, another Outlander filming site that also doubled as the setting for Winterfell in the pilot of Game of Thrones, as well as the famed castle in Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

Culzean Castle made a fun day trip during our visit to Glenapp.

 Today, many castles and noble homes are available for visiting. Glenapp Castle, a Relais & Chateaux gem in the south, is one of our favorites, both for its gorgeous views of Alisa Craig island and for its quiet beauty, with 36 acres of landscaped gardens and activities like falconry and even a glamping program available in warmer weather. While there, plan a day trip to Culzean Castle, a cliff-top masterpiece with a country park, miles of trails, and a home that once housed private apartments of General Eisenhower.

Perfectly Planned:

But, Will it Rain?

Will it rain during your visit to Scotland? Most certainly. The Highlands get measurable rainfall more than 250 days each year, and other areas get rain up to 175. As the locals say, however, if you don’t like the weather, wait a minute and it will likely change. Just pack layers.  

Peak spring break months top out, generally, in the mid or upper 50s, while summer stretches in to the 60s and 70s, with lovely long days, that, towards the north, areas like Orkney, Skye and Loch Ness, may mean as many as four hours more daylight than London. It’s light up until almost midnight in most areas, allowing you to see and explore into and past the early evening in most cities.

August is a particularly good month, crammed with a festival nearly every weekend that infuses the city with a buzzy vibe. The Edinburgh Fringe Festival, a mix of art, music and theater events held at locations around the city, is one of the largest of its kind in the world. Hotels will rise to premium rates at this time, so be sure to book early.

Fall is also lovely—particularly if you fancy catching the heather in bloom across the Highlands or want a leisurely round of golf before a roaring fire and whiskey come the evening. Winter isn’t the optimal time to visit, but it does offer one bright spot— the festive period of Christmas, Hanukkah and New Year’s Eve, known as ‘Hogmanay’ in Scotland, are packed with great three-, four- and five-night activity packages for the whole family at most resorts, ideal for an alternative to skiing or the Caribbean for adventurous families.

Getting There:

Scotland is a relatively inexpensive option for European travel, with tickets often below $600 in Economy from major East Coast gateways.

Getting Around:

Yes, you’ll drive on the “wrong” side of the road in Scotland, but roads are well-marked and in miles, making, for the most part, driving a relatively simple task. Uber works in major cities, but private drivers are an easy fix for avoiding any hassle. Use a reputable tour planner like yours truly and we’ll get you all set up.

A Double or Triple Feature:

While Scotland certainly makes for an easy enough trip by itself, it’s easier than ever to add Scotland to a larger UK trip or a European Grand tour. Make it a 5-hour train from London to Gleneagles, or a quick nonstop from Heathrow into Glasgow, Edinburgh, or even Inverness. From Edinburgh or Glasgow, most major European cities are within a two or three-hour flight at most.

The most logical pairing would be to start or finish with London or Dublin, adding in 4 or so nights to visit London and then pairing with a few nights in major cities or a week or more in Scotland. Ireland is another easy combo; we’d suggest just two nights in Dublin plus any additional driving you wish to do around the country or mixing a week in each destination for a true taste of the UK.

If you’ve visited the major tourist sites previously, Amsterdam is a well-considered addition, particularly it offers a direct flight back to JFK.

One thing is for certain, however. One visit to Scotland and you’ll have the urge, as all road signs point to as you leave a city, to “haste ye back” as soon as possible.

This piece originally appeared in the Spring 2020 issue of Woodbury Magazine, written by yours truly.

Safety & Security Update

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COVID-19 AND TRAVEL

The travel industry of today is in a state of flux and travelers are increasingly unsure of how to navigate the constant stream of information. We hear your concerns, understand your fears and empathize with the difficult decisions you have been facing. We know there is confusion and uncertainty, and we are here to help.

As your travel advisor, we are your personal advocate and we are ready to assist in any way we can. We will update this page with any relevant information and resources that may be helpful to you.

HELPFUL LINKS & RESOURCES:

Kindly reference the links below including general guidelines on hygienic measures that can be taken while traveling and updated status reports on identified cases in affected countries. These official websites are the most reliable sources for verified information and can easily be shared.

• CDC - CDC Coronavirus General Information

• State Department - Resource for current travel advisory notifications and precautions

• World Health Organization - General information on COVID-19

• World Health Organization - Q&A on COVID-19 

• ECDC - COVID-19 updates within the EU/EEA & UK

We recommend that all travelers enroll in a free service called The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or "STEP". This program allows U.S. citizens traveling or living abroad to receive the latest security updates from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. 

Benefits of enrolling in STEP:

• You will receive the latest safety and security information for your destination country, so you can make informed decisions about your travel

• The information you provide enables the U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you in an emergency

• The program allows your family and friends to get in touch with you in an emergency

Enroll in the STEP Program today

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES from virtuoso:

We are, as you know, a Virtuoso agency. Virtuoso allows many protections for travelers during this time, as well as while you are traveling. Suppliers are required to provide proof of financial solvency, offer advisors like ourselves direct access to the highest levels of management, and to offer benefits for travelers while they are on property or in destination. We are in constant communication with our contacts to ensure your trip is a success.

• “What Virtuoso Advisors Want You to Know About Traveling and Coronavirus”

• “Why we are Going to Keep Talking About Travel”

If you have planned 2020 travel and you’d like to discuss options and policies regarding deposits, payments, and trip adjustments, please email directly or call or text. I am here for you. I have done my best to reach out in advance of planned trips, but if we have not yet connected, let’s catch up.