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The World's Most Luxurious Train Journeys

dean@sellingluxurytravel.com (Dean Horvath) — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 15:50:00 GMT

Train travel carries an inherent sense of romance and nostalgia, evoking images of grand voyages across sweeping landscapes. In today's fast-paced world, luxury train journeys provide a splendid throwback to a more graceful age, offering discerning travelers the chance to savor the journey as much as the destination.
This guide delves into some of the world's most luxurious train journeys, each offering a unique blend of opulence, adventure, and panoramic beauty.

1. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe

The mere mention of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express conjures images of art deco elegance and white-glove sophistication. Operating between London and Venice, this iconic train journey offers an experience steeped in historical glamour. As the countryside slips by, one can lounge in vintage cabins draped in polished wood and plush upholstery.
Dining aboard the Orient-Express is an event unto itself. Each meal is served in one of the three ornately decorated restaurant cars, offering dishes that rival those of Michelin-starred establishments. Imagine sipping a glass of champagne as the Swiss Alps parade past your window, the clinking of fine china and murmurs of conversation creating a symphony of genteel festivity. This journey not only connects majestic cities but also transports its passengers back to a time when travel was an art form.

2. The Ghan, Australia

Spanning the vast heart of Australia, The Ghan takes passengers from the tropical northern coast of Darwin down to the rugged, arid landscapes of Adelaide. This epic journey traverses the continent’s striking interior, with the Platinum service providing an especially sumptuous experience. Private cabins with en suite bathrooms and expansive windows ensure that you never miss a moment of the hauntingly beautiful Australian outback. The Ghan also offers unique off-train excursions that enhance the travel experience. Whether it’s a boat cruise through the Nitmiluk Gorge or a scenic flight over Uluru, each activity is designed to deepen passengers' connection with the landscape. Back on board, evenings are spent enjoying meticulously prepared local cuisine, underlining the journey’s luxurious, yet distinctly Australian, flavor.

3. Rovos Rail, Africa

Often described as the most luxurious train in the world, Rovos Rail recaptures the golden age of travel with its restored Edwardian carriages. Routes vary from the popular Pretoria to Cape Town line to more exotic journeys like Cape Town to Dar es Salaam. Each route offers a chance to witness Africa’s diverse landscapes, from stark deserts to lush vineyards.
Onboard, the experience is unmatched. Passengers can retire to spacious suites that boast authentic period furnishings and all modern comforts. Dining on Rovos Rail is a celebration of African gastronomy, served in a vintage dining car that frames picturesque views of the passing scenery. As night falls, one can’t help but feel part of a moving, breathing museum of travel history.

4. Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

The Rocky Mountaineer offers an entirely different panorama— the rugged peaks and verdant valleys of the Canadian Rockies. Known for its daylight travel, this train ensures passengers don't miss a second of the breathtaking landscape through the oversized windows of its glass-domed coaches.
The journey is punctuated with stories and insights provided by onboard hosts, enhancing the scenic ride with tales of the region’s history and ecology. Dining aboard the Rocky Mountaineer is a highlight, featuring Western Canadian dishes that are as visually impressive as they are palatable, prepared using local ingredients to reflect the journey’s regional essence.

5. Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru

Traveling aboard the Belmond Andean Explorer is like stepping into a moving five-star hotel. As South America’s first luxury sleeper train, it offers journeys from Cusco to Arequipa, cutting through the Peruvian Andes and offering stops at Lake Titicaca and the Colca Canyon. The train’s design echoes the soft hues of the surrounding landscapes, with interiors that offer a blend of classic and contemporary styles. Guests on the Belmond Andean Explorer may indulge in Peruvian dishes in the elegant dining car or unwind with a treatment in the spa car, all while the Andes' majestic vistas unfold before them. Waking up to a sunrise over Lake Titicaca, with the soft lapping of the lake’s waters and the distant calls of seabirds, is nothing short of magical.

Final Boarding Call

Each of these train journeys presents a unique way to experience the beauty of the world from the comfort of a luxurious, moving retreat. They remind us that the journey itself can be as delightful as the destination. For those looking to step aboard these rolling hotels, each ride promises not just a journey, but a doorway to the soul of each destination. Embark on one of these legendary train journeys and let the romance of the rails lead you to your next adventure.
Contact us today to book your passage into a world of unrivaled luxury and wonder.

The Heart of Luxury Safari: Botswana's Premier Wilderness Retreats

dean@sellingluxurytravel.com (Dean Horvath) — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 16:17:00 GMT

Botswana: The Crown Jewel of Safari

Nestled in the heart of Southern Africa, Botswana emerges as a crown jewel of safari adventures, a land where wildlife roams free against the backdrop of breathtaking landscapes. Within this untamed wilderness, a series of exclusive retreats await the discerning traveler, offering an unparalleled journey into nature's most intimate secrets.
Three iconic Wilderness properties—Jao, DumaTau, and Mombo—stand as beacons of luxury and conservation, each with its own unique charm, inviting guests into the very essence of the African safari experience.

Jao: A Haven in the Heart of the Delta

Imagine awakening to the symphony of the African bush, where the distant roar of a lion punctuates the serene silence of dawn. This is a morning at Jao, a luxurious sanctuary nestled on a remote island in the heart of the Okavango Delta. Surrounded by waterways and lush vegetation, Jao is a haven for those seeking tranquility and thrilling wildlife encounters in equal measure.

The camp's opulent villas, each with its private deck overlooking the floodplains, offer a secluded escape into nature's embrace. Guests can indulge in spa treatments under the African sky, explore the delta's intricate channels by mokoro, or embark on wildlife drives that reveal the delta's diverse inhabitants in their natural splendor. As the sun sets, the air fills with the calls of nocturnal creatures, a reminder of the wild heart of Botswana that beats just beyond the comfort of your luxurious retreat.

DumaTau: The Elephant's Sanctuary

Deep in the Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, DumaTau stands as a testament to the majesty of the African elephant and the efforts to protect this iconic species. Overlooking vast lagoons and the Osprey Lagoon in particular, this camp offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of the elephants that traverse the reserve's corridors. Here, conservation is not just a concept but a living, breathing part of the experience.

Guests are invited to explore the landscape not only through the eyes of an adventurer but also with the heart of a conservationist. Boat safaris offer a unique perspective on the aquatic life, while game drives bring you face-to-face with the Great Elephant Herds, a sight that embodies the power and grace of Africa's wildlife.

At DumaTau, every moment is an opportunity to connect deeply with the natural world and understand the importance of preserving it for generations to come.

Mombo: The Place of Plenty

On Chief's Island, in the heart of the Moremi Game Reserve, lies Mombo, aptly known as "The Place of Plenty." This moniker reflects not only the abundance of wildlife but also the luxurious abundance offered to guests. Renowned for its exceptional game viewing opportunities, including the elusive Big Five, Mombo provides an unrivaled safari experience.

Here, the wilderness is not just observed; it is felt, heard, and lived. Tracking a leopard through the bush, witnessing the delicate bond of a lion pride, or dining under the vast African sky—these experiences forge an indelible connection with the land. Mombo's commitment to conservation and community enriches every encounter, offering insight into the delicate balance that sustains this rich ecosystem.

Why Choose Wilderness Properties for Your Botswana Safari

Choosing Jao, DumaTau, and Mombo for your Botswana safari means choosing a path less traveled—a journey that transcends the ordinary and delves into the extraordinary. These properties stand out not only for their breathtaking locations and luxurious accommodations but also for their deep commitment to conservation.
Here, luxury and wilderness are intertwined, offering an escape that is as enriching as it is exhilarating. Guests leave with not just memories but a profound appreciation for the natural world and the efforts to preserve it.

Time For You To Visit

The call of the wild is irresistible, a siren song that beckons to the heart of every traveler seeking adventure and connection. Botswana, with its pristine landscapes and rich tapestry of wildlife, offers an experience unlike any other.
The Wilderness properties—Jao, DumaTau, and Mombo—invite you to step into this world, to discover the beauty, the thrill, and the tranquility of the African bush. This is not just a journey; it is a return to the essence of life itself.
We invite you to book your safari experience with us, to embark on a journey that will stay with you forever. Contact us today to begin your adventure into the heart of Botswana.

Mongolia's Golden Eagle Festival

dean@sellingluxurytravel.com (Dean Horvath) — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 14:45:00 GMT

A Different Kind of Luxury - with Nomadic Expeditions

When we think of luxury travel, we often picture grand hotels and lavish comforts. But sometimes, luxury is about stepping into a world few have seen, experiencing life as a thrilling adventure. This is the heart of the Golden Eagle Festival in Mongolia—a celebration that doesn't just offer a window into an ancient tradition, but invites you into it.

The Wilds of Mongolia

The real luxury in Mongolia is not found in the thread count of your sheets, but in the threads of deep cultural connection and the untouched beauty of the land. The accommodations here are unique—traditional Mongolian homes called "gers". They're cozy, authentic, and bring you closer to the natural world and the people who have thrived here for generations.

The Golden Eagle Festival Experience

Every year, eagle hunters gather to show their skills in a breathtaking display of partnership between human and bird. As an observer, you become part of a tradition that has soared through the ages. The festival is alive with the thunder of hooves, the cry of eagles, and the cheer of the crowd. It's not just a competition; it's a pageant of culture, color, and pride.

Authenticity Beyond Five Stars

Staying in a ger might be different from a hotel stay, but the experience is unforgettable. Imagine waking up to the sound of the wind, dining with local families, and hearing stories passed down through time. This is where the heart of Mongolian hospitality beats, welcoming you into a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.

The Gobi Desert's Natural Splendor

The Gobi Desert offers a landscape that's both harsh and hauntingly beautiful. Here, luxury is in the peace you find under the stars and the sense of wonder that comes from exploring its vast expanse. Whether you're hiking through rocky canyons or visiting ancient Buddhist monasteries, the desert is a place that stays with you forever.

Why You Should Choose This Experience

For those who seek out rare experiences, Mongolia's Golden Eagle Festival is a treasure. It's a chance to step beyond the usual and discover a richness that can't be bought—only lived. In today's world, luxury is also about the unique stories you gather and the emotions that fill you in unexpected places. The Golden Eagle Festival is more than a trip; it's a journey into the heart of what makes travel magical. It's an adventure that brings luxury back to its most authentic form—extraordinary experiences that are as rare as they are real. Ready to take the leap? Reach out and let's plan your journey into the wild luxury of Mongolia.

A Night Under the Stars at Soneva Fushi, Maldives

dean@sellingluxurytravel.com (Dean Horvath) — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 14:45:00 GMT

An extraordinary adventure awaits

In the constellation of luxury travel destinations, the Maldives shines brightly, a beacon to those seeking unparalleled serenity and opulence. Among its many jewels, Soneva Fushi stands out as a sanctuary where the whispers of the ocean meet the rustle of lush tropical foliage, creating a symphony of natural tranquility. Here, an extraordinary adventure awaits—a private sandbank overnight experience, an invitation to slumber under the Maldivian sky, secluded from the world, yet enveloped in luxury.

The Allure of Soneva Fushi

Nestled in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Soneva Fushi is more than a resort; it's a philosophy woven into the very fabric of its existence. With a steadfast commitment to sustainability and luxury that whispers rather than shouts, Soneva Fushi offers an escape not just to a different place but to a different pace of life. Here, personal butlers cater to your every whim, and the villas, with their open-air gardens and private pools, are sanctuaries of peace. Yet, among its myriad of indulgences, the private sandbank overnight experience stands as a testament to Soneva Fushi's mastery in creating moments that etch themselves into the heart.

The Private Sandbank Overnight Experience

As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, a journey begins. A boat ride takes you to your own private sandbank, where a luxurious Bedouin-style tent awaits, complete with a bathroom that defies all expectations of desert-island dwelling. The scene is set for an evening of unparalleled romance and beauty: a candlelit dinner prepared by personal attendants who, with discreet bows, leave you to your secluded paradise.
The night unfolds under a tapestry of stars, where the only sounds are the gentle lapping of waves and the whisper of the breeze. The luxurious tent becomes a cocoon of comfort, its plush bedding and the rhythmic sound of the sea lulling you into a restful sleep. The magic of the experience is not just in the opulence but in the profound connection with nature, a reminder of the beauty and simplicity of being truly away from it all.
As dawn breaks, the first rays of sunlight dance across the water, heralding the arrival of breakfast delivered at your chosen time. Savoring this first meal of the day, with the sand beneath your feet and the endless ocean before you, is a moment of pure bliss, a gentle conclusion to an unforgettable night.

Why You Should Choose This Experience

For the luxury traveler, the allure of the sandbank experience lies in its singularity—a blend of adventure, romance, and exclusivity. It speaks to the heart of what makes travel truly luxurious: not just the plush comforts and attentive service, but the creation of memories that are uniquely yours. It is an ideal escape for couples, where the serenity and beauty of the setting serve as a backdrop for celebration, be it an anniversary, a honeymoon, or the simple joy of being together in a world apart.

The private sandbank overnight experience at Soneva Fushi is more than a luxurious escape; it's a journey to the heart of what makes travel magical. It offers a rare opportunity to reconnect with the natural world and with each other, wrapped in the unparalleled service and beauty that Soneva Fushi is renowned for. We invite you to embark on this unique adventure, to write your own story of a night spent under the Maldivian sky, where dreams are cradled by the waves and stars light the way to dawn. Contact us to book your exclusive experience, and step into a tale of enchantment, luxury, and unforgettable memories at Soneva Fushi.

Florence's Hidden Gem: The Reopening of the Vasari Corridor

dean@sellingluxurytravel.com (Dean Horvath) — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 19:41:00 GMT

The Grand Reopening

After an eight-year hiatus, the doors to one of Florence's most exclusive and historically significant pathways are set to reopen. The Vasari Corridor, a hidden architectural marvel that stretches elegantly over the Arno River, is ready to unveil its secrets once more. For luxury travelers who seek out the unique and the exceptional, this reopening is not just an event; it's an invitation to step into a realm of unparalleled beauty and history. Join us as we explore the wonders of the Vasari Corridor, offering an experience as exclusive as it is unforgettable.

The Allure of Florence

Nestled in the heart of Italy, Florence is a testament to the enduring allure of Renaissance art and architecture. Its cobblestone streets echo with the footsteps of the Medici, Michelangelo, and Da Vinci, making it a living museum that captivates at every turn. While the Duomo and the Uffizi Gallery draw their well-deserved share of admirers, the Vasari Corridor stands apart as a testament to Florence's rich history and artistic triumph. This corridor is not just another attraction; it's a bridge to the past, offering insights into the genius that shaped the Renaissance.

Unveiling the Vasari Corridor

Commissioned by Duke Cosimo I de' Medici in 1564 and designed by the legendary architect Giorgio Vasari, the corridor was conceived as a secure passageway for the ruling family, connecting the Palazzo Vecchio with the Palazzo Pitti across the Arno River. Winding above the bustling streets and the iconic Ponte Vecchio, it served as a private walkway, adorned with artworks and offering spectacular views, ensuring the Medici could move freely and safely in their city. The Vasari Corridor is a masterpiece of engineering and art, embodying the ambition and the sophistication of its creators.

A Journey Through Time

Imagine walking through a corridor that whispers the secrets of the past, where every step brings you closer to the heart of the Renaissance. As you meander through the Vasari Corridor, you're not just a visitor; you're a traveler through time. The walls are lined with a collection of portraits and paintings, each telling its own story, each a piece of the puzzle that is Florence's rich history. From the unique vantage points, the panoramic views of the city and the Arno River are breathtaking, offering perspectives that are reserved for the few. This is your window to a world where art and power intertwined, creating the backdrop for some of the most pivotal moments in Italian history.

The Essence of Exclusivity

We understand that for our discerning clients, exclusivity is not just about access; it's about experiencing something extraordinary in a way that few others can. The Vasari Corridor embodies this principle. Previously, entry was limited, making it one of Florence's most coveted experiences. Now, as it reopens, we have the privilege to offer you a passage through this historical treasure as part of a highly personalized journey. This isn't just a tour; it's an intimate experience, where you're not battling crowds but are free to immerse yourself in the beauty and history of the corridor, making it truly your own.

Tailoring Your Luxury Experience

Let us craft for you not just a trip, but a narrative that seamlessly integrates the Vasari Corridor into your personal exploration of Florence. Picture a day that begins with a private viewing of the Uffizi Gallery, followed by a leisurely stroll to the entrance of the corridor, where your exclusive access awaits. Led by an expert art historian, you'll gain insights into the masterpieces that line the corridor's walls, stories behind its construction, and the Medici family's influence on Florence. Afterward, perhaps a curated experience at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a private wine tasting at a historic villa. Your journey is designed around your desires, ensuring every moment is as unique as the art and architecture that surrounds you.

Now is the Time to Visit

With the corridor's doors reopening this spring, the opportunity to witness its majesty is more enticing than ever. This is a moment, a fleeting chance to be among the first to step back into a world that has been hidden away for nearly a decade. The beauty of Florence, combined with the allure of the Vasari Corridor, is calling. It's an experience that promises not only to be a highlight of your travels but a cherished memory that will linger long after you've returned home.

As we look forward to the reopening of the Vasari Corridor, we're reminded of the power of travel to inspire and transform. This journey is more than just a visit to an attraction; it's an invitation to connect with the soul of Florence, to walk in the footsteps of history, and to experience the pinnacle of luxury travel. Our team is ready to craft your personalized itinerary, ensuring that your visit to the Vasari Corridor is nothing short of extraordinary. Let's create unforgettable moments together, exploring the depth of beauty and history that only Florence can offer.

How to Experience Italy as if it were 1000 years ago

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 16:31:00 GMT

If you veer off the tourist path in Italy just a bit, you’ll be rewarded with living in ancient history. You could eat medieval dishes and sleep in a cave that housed a local family over 1000 years ago. The cave is now outfitted with modern luxuries, of course, but a cave itself is as original as it gets. In a different direction, you can experience life in a hillside fortified medieval village nestled within one of Italy’s stunning national parks. There’s always more to love about Italy. But this time around take part in the rich history of how Italians lived and flourished in the ancient past by staying in the Sextantio hotels.

Italy like you’ve never seen it before

Both of these places are forgotten cities. Left abandoned and crumbling. When you tell your friends you’re going to Italy to visit the cities of Sassi de Matera and Santo Stefano they’re going to look at you sideways and then ask if you’re going to Rome.
Of course, we’ll always love Rome, but these two unheard of places harbor something incredibly unique. The forgotten cities hold stories that are so worth hearing, feeling, and exploring. If the walls could talk, they’d tell us grand stories of who used to live there, the churches that stood next door serving the farming community, or even of the farm animals that lived inside during the winter – the same walls that will host you during your time in forgotten Italy.

What are the Sextantio hotels, and where are these towns I’ve never heard of?

We’ve all enjoyed the luxury of a brand new hotel with an infinity pool, bathtub the size of your entire bathroom at home and sheets that make you wonder if the city you’re in really need to be explored. Both of the Sextantio hotels are not new. In fact, both are ancient and crumbling. Which is exactly why we love them. Here’s why we think your Italy itinerary needs to include towns you’ve never heard of before.

Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita in the Sassi di Matera

Sassi di Matera is in Southern Italy, just about where the heel breaks away from the foot. Ancient cave dwellings and incredibly unique landscape is what meets you here. In 1993 it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it’s so well preserved. The village is made up of hundreds of caves that were used as homes, churches, and palaces. The earliest records we have show that people lived in this beautiful cave village in the stone and bronze ages, so they’re thought to be some of Italy’s first inhabitants.
Staying in the Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita is like going back in time, but with modern comforts, because cave life was a little rougher that we like to vacation.
Here’s what awaits you: the hotel is 18 luxury caves (sassi). Cave 13, a favorite, is the only room that spans numerous caves, separating bedroom from living room. Candles certainly make a bath romantic, but how about a fireplace next to the bathtub? We agree – this is no standard hotel. Sleeping in a sassi that was probably inhabited back in 7000 BC is an unforgettable experience.

Enjoy all the Sassi di Matera has to offer

Aside from the splendor of sleeping in your very own sassi room, Sextantio has incredible experiences to see what the Sassi di Matera area is all about. Romantic candlelit dinners at the XIII Century Rock Hewn Church with classical music and an open fire are the perfect way to spend a romantic evening. To make dinner even more special, you can take part in a cooking class to learn the art of handmade pasta. So even though when you get home, your friends will have no idea where you’ve been in Italy, you can impress them with your new pasta-making skills.

During the day, head out on a guided cycling tour of the area or take off on foot for a hiking tour of the town that takes place during the day as well as after sunset for an extra unique view of town. One of the best parts of either of these activities is the guide. Zero struggling with maps or wondering if you’ve cycled into the next town over. Vacation should be stress-free and both of these activities are the perfect recipe of adventure while feeling completely taken care of. Italian exploration doesn’t get any better than this. The Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita is a harmony between preserving ancient history while keeping it alive and thriving. Not totally sold yet? Check out this video to see exactly why we love it here.

Sextantio Albergo Diffuso in Santo Stefano di Sessanio

The Appenine mountains in the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park is the second Sextantio hotel. The Albergo Diffuso brings to life the forgotten village of Abruzzo, two hours northeast of Rome. “Albergo diffuso” means scattered hotel, so of course it’s exactly that, plus now you know more Italian than you did a second ago!

Twenty-nine luxurious rooms, a tea room, a restaurant serving medieval recipes, and a wine cellar are all on property here. The hotel sticks so close to its historic roots that it’s a bit like living in a fully-functioning museum. Have you ever eaten a meal made from a medieval recipe? We hadn’t either, but it’s these small details that make this hotel so memorable. Not to worry though, because the hotel has modern luxuries instead of medieval living conditions. Under-floor heating and light switches are in each room – big upgrades from when the first people lived within these walls.

How to spend the perfect day in Santo Stefano di Sessanio

The list of activities available both in your hotel and in the surrounding areas is so tempting that you’re not going to get to any of the Netflix shows you planned to watch on vacation. That’s what the plane ride home is for. Instead, you’re going hunting for black truffles with a local expert truffle hunter and his dogs. Yep, hiking, foraging for delicious mushrooms, and hanging out with cute dogs makes for a great day. If you’re feeling like a day on the water would do you some good, canoeing in a crystal clear lake in the mountains will leave feeling serene. If you prefer horseback riding as your mode of transportation, the Sextantio has you covered.

Of course when in Italy, you must visit the local vineyard, do some wine tasting with local cheese pairing. Take a few bottles back to the hotel with you for a great night in, or take some back home for a fun happy hour with your favorite wine from Italy and reminisce. Back at the Albergo Diffuso, take part in one of their cooking classes. Be it bread, pastries, or preparing dinner with the chef. All of those classes are sure to be a fun cooking lesson, slight language lesson and an unforgettable experience that you can take home. Check out this video to see what we mean when we say this is a must-visit destination on your Italian adventure.

The Best Private Dining Experiences in Thailand

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 16:20:00 GMT

Dining in Thailand comes in many forms. Some nights you’ll find yourself in Bangkok’s bustling Chinatown slurping down the best noodle soup you’ve ever had. You’ll be sitting on a plastic chair that is surely designed for a five-year-old. The table height is just as low. It’s also a little sweaty since this al-fresco dining situation is on the sidewalk with Bangkok life whizzing by not more than two meters away. But none of this matters because this is the best bowl of noodle soup you’ve ever tasted. On the flip slide, during your time in Thailand you can dine in the most luxurious and private locations you’ve ever seen.
Candlelit dinners are lovely, but how about a private candlelit dinner next to a waterfall in the jungle? And I don’t mean just a candle on your table. I’m talking about hundreds of candles surrounding you, illuminating the waterfall, the jungle, with a few larger torches bringing light to your table. The Sarojin Khao Lak Resort offers some of the coolest private dining experiences you’ll ever encounter. The food selection throughout Thailand is worth the trip, but these memorable dining options will leave your taste buds and your heart in Thailand.

Dining options at The Sarojin

Once you’ve been led into the jungle and sat atop fluffy white pillows, take a second to marvel at the jungle surrounding you. The sound of the waterfall and the birds singing are the soundtrack for your dinner. Soon you’ll be enjoying lobster from the Andaman Sea, Thai prawn soup, and of course, mango sticky rice for dessert, a must-try while in Thailand.

Get shipwrecked

If you’re feeling more tropical than jungle, The Sarojin will happily accommodate. Go ahead and hop on the yacht that will take you to your own private island for dinner, themed “Shipwrecked in Style.” Just you, your chosen dining companions, and an entirely private island with an uninterrupted 360° view of the Andaman Sea. Unlike if you were actually shipwrecked, there’s no struggle for food here.

A classic beach barbecue

Of course, you’re at The Sarojin in part to enjoy the beach. What’s a trip to Thailand without some beach time? After the perfect day lounging and taking a dip to cool off in the heat of the day, head right back to the beloved beach for a special private barbecue.

Toes in the sand, watch the sunset as your sip a cocktail. The tree above you is glowing with lanterns and strings of adorable Thai flowers hanging off the branches. Tall candles illuminate the area all around your table, set In the soft sugar sand. Your chef and his cooking station are a few meters away, waiting your order. The only issue you face is what to order: Thai marinated chicken or grilled pork loin. Whatever you choose, you’re destined for a wonderful private beach barbecue on one of the most beautiful and serene beaches in Thailand. Yep, you’re definitely extended your stay. Or at least booked your return visit as soon as you leave.

Pool dining

Maybe you’ve dined pool side before, or maybe you’ve even broken the rules and had a bite to eat while in the pool. But not many of us have dined in the middle of the pool in an intimate elevated pavilion. If you’ve had a busy day exploring Thailand and can’t be bothered to move more than a few steps from your room for dinner, this private pool dining is waiting for you.

The aquamarine colors emanating from the pool serenely light your dinner. The pool sits in a garden-setting and you’ll be seated under a wonderful canopy. This is the perfect location to unwind from a busy day. Choose the spring rolls for an appetizer and chicken green curry for dinner and head into the evening perfectly relaxed.

The Sarojin experience

In all rooms, The Sarojin offers daily breakfast served to you on your veranda. As if this wasn’t cool enough, they’ll serve you breakfast at whatever time you’d like it. So if you happen to sleep in until 10am and decide a beach jog sounds nice, you’re not going to miss your breakfast window.

In addition to these out of this world dining experiences, everything at The Sarojin is spectacular. Our favorite rooms here are the pool residences. The interior of the room is wonderful with a king bed, two showers, and a soaking tub. But the true highlight is the exterior. Outside you have your own private pool, a veranda perfect for lounging, a garden space with lounge chairs, and a sun terrace. If you fancy a midnight swim, no one will stop you!

Get out and about

Instead of pre-planning your itinerary, why not let The Sarojin decide for you? Board the Lady Sarojin for a day exploring the sea life in the area, trek with an elephant, or go white-water rafting. For a calm day, book yourself into the on-site spa. Even on vacation, we could all use a de-stressing head massage. Or maybe opt for the sports massage to help recover from yesterday’s rock climbing excursion.

The Sarojin is sure to become your new favorite resort in Thailand. Now all your have to do is convince your friends back home that Thailand isn’t actually that far away and they’re on the hook for joining you next time. And even if it does take more than one plane to get there, what awaits is truly worth the journey.

Dress-up For Adults At The Ballyfin Demesne

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 16:09:00 GMT

Welcome to the Ballyfin Demesne in County Laois, Ireland. Not much need to read a single review of this hotel before booking because it was voted the best hotel in the world 2016 by Conde Nast Traveler US. As if that’s not a good enough review to convince you, we have a few highlights to share detailing why you’ll love your time in Ireland at the Ballyfin.

Playing dress up is not just for the kids anymore

When staying in a luxurious Regency mansion it’s best to go all in to get the fullest experience. Of course this includes wearing period costumes! Despite the modern convenience of ordering everything known to mankind online, it’s still difficult to source a dress from the Edwardian era. But thankfully the Ballyfin has this covered for us. And with this experience, dress up isn’t just for kids anymore.

During the day, gather your group and head to the costume department in the Ballyfin. Yes, the hotel has an in-house costume department! Here you can browse the racks of period costumes brought here from the Lyric Opera of Chicago, one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world. You’ll have over 40 costumes to choose from and if you can’t quite decide, the Ballyfin has trained dressers to help you out. After you’ve chosen the perfect outfit, it will be waiting for you in your room when it’s time to get ready for dinner. Once you’re ready to step into your very own recreation of Downton Abbey, you’ll be having pre-dinner drinks while a photographer captures just how awesome you look in the costumes. These pictures are sure to be the perfect framed memory of Ireland. The Ballyfin’s beauty and exquisite decor serving as the backdrop for these photos, in combination with being dressed in the most couture outfits this is a night you’ll surely remember for a lifetime. Dinner will be a lavish banquet feast fit for the royalty just like those who used to attend the feasts within the Ballyfin’s original walls. Your photos will be delivered to you the following day.

What awaits you at Ballyfin Demesne

Remember as kids when you dreamed every library had a secret bookshelf that opened up to something marvelous waiting behind it? The Ballyfin is here to make that dream come true. Before you go pressing on each bookcase looking for the one that moves, take a seat in one of the quiet corners for a game of chess or cozy up in front of one of the fireplaces. Your reading choices number over 5000, so there’s no issue finding something of interest here. Indulge in some tea or whiskey or wine tasting if the mood strikes. But ok, the suspense is too much! Go ahead and find the secret bookcase door. And what’s behind this secret bookcase door? It’s the only entrance to the Turner conservatory! And this is one room you’ll be coming back to everyday. A hidden door to the conservatory really does make it a secret garden. However, the conservatory is now a place to enjoy lunch, champagne or a canape. The best place to soak up the Irish sun while admiring the beauty of the structure. The overgrown vegetation formerly in the conservatory was removed during renovation and has now been turned into your favorite breakfast and lunch spot. But if you’re still in the mood for a garden tour, the Ballyfin will provide. A large percentage of the fresh produce used here is grown in the garden on the Ballyfin grounds. The menu highlights what’s in season, and you’re free to tour the vegetable garden that will be feeding you during your stay.

The Ballyfin underwent a nine-year renovation before it reopened in 2011. The original house was built in the 1820s where an affluent family enjoyed it for exactly 100 years, with Edwardian photos showing their prosperity enjoying tea on the terrace and skating in the garden. Today, it’s one of Ireland’s most lavish Regency mansions sitting on 614 acres with 20 guest rooms. It’s a stunning mansion with perfection in the smallest details. Although fancy, it’s still somewhere you can relax. You can wear slippers to lounge in one of the sitting rooms and no one will bat an eye. The staff will probably light a fireplace for you and offer you a beverage. It’s luxury without pretense. You’re on vacation, after all.

With 614 acres, the Ballyfin activities pose a slight problem – it may lead to sleepless nights of trying to figure out how to extend your vacation. Although on vacation you do have the tough choice of deciding which activity to enjoy – fishing on the private lake, clay pigeon shooting, croquet, archery, or falconry. Perhaps you are looking for something a little less active? Opt for the pony and carriage tour of the grounds or enjoy a picnic at the grotto. But what if it rains, you ask? Head to the indoor pool that overlooks the courtyard garden, the spa and sauna are also nearby for your relaxation, or there’s the Cellar Bar downstairs in the old servant’s hall. With these indoor options paired with the grandeur that is the Ballyfin, a rainy day is almost welcomed on vacation here to feel no pressure but to stay in and explore what’s right here on site.