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From Booking Safaris to Planning Global Vacations, Here Are the 10 Best Travel Specialists

After a year off-grid, our winning specialists are providing customized experiences from jet travel to road trips., the editors, the editors's most recent stories.

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Travel specialists have never been more essential than they are right now, with their invaluable ability to pivot, re-book and offer advice. We picked 10 standouts in the luxury field from across the world, a directory of those who embody that above-and-beyond spirit essential in the past year.

Christoper Sitwell, Cazenove + Loyd

Wilmot-Sitwell has been working in travel for more than three decades. The co-owner of a 16-person London-based agency specializes in long-haul luxury, often to far-flung sites in rural Africa and Asia. The team there spent much of 2020 canceling or postponing trips—most recently, unpicking rescheduled itineraries to the Tokyo Olympics when a ban on foreign spectators was announced.

The firm anticipated today’s conscious-travel concerns from the outset, always focusing on owner-run and locally staffed independent operations, such as preservation outfit Campfire in Zimbabwe. Cazenove + Loyd also offsets the entire carbon cost of its research recces via a partnership with CommuniTree , a 12-square-mile tropical reforestation project in Nicaragua. Clients can easily opt into this, too; anyone whose itinerary swoops through the country can visit the project and personally plant the trees.

Learn More: Here

Tanya Dalton, Managing Director UK, Greaves

Dalton leads the UK office of this India specialist outfitter, which was founded by her Mumbai-born grandfather in 1978 and later run by her mother. With generations’ worth of in-depth experience and exclusive connections at her fingertips, she arranges custom trips as luxe as they are immersive. Depending on their interests, travelers may find themselves granted entrée to private palaces, sacred religious sites and landmarked government buildings; meeting with celebrated curators, authors, artisans, jewelers, chefs or astrologers; or exploring desert wilds while staying at plush mobile camps.

Dalton’s team—45 in Delhi and Mumbai, and 15 in the UK—helped extract some 40 clients from India at the start of the pandemic, as borders closed. Now she’s helping guests plan their return. On her radar currently are safaris to spot India’s rising tiger population, top-end hotel openings in Rajasthan and a new single-suite wooden boat that’s perfect for privately cruising the Ganges, Bhagirathi and Hooghly Rivers.

Jules Maury, Scott Dunn Private

Maury runs this offshoot of the UK-based travel firm, focused entirely on bespoke itineraries. Much of her work during the pandemic involved extended stays for home-schooling families who were looking to live and work in a new locale, whether spending two and a half months at Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives or a month in residence at Antigua’s Jumby Bay. Another guest commandeered the five-room Sheldon Chalet in Denali National Park, an ultra-secluded property accessible only by a 45-minute helicopter ride.

The SDP team follows multiple pro-social protocols when it travels and encourages clients to follow suit, including the Pack for a Purpose program, in which visitors pack requested supplies in their luggage for distribution at the destination. It’s laser-focused on ethical practices, too. Animal welfare is a priority, so providers that offer bullfighting or elephant riding are not used, and there’s a pledge that 90 percent of all operators will not provide single-use plastics to guests by the end of 2023.

Deborah Calmeyer, Roar Africa

The Zimbabwe-born Calmeyer has carved out a discrete niche as the ultimate elite safari planner, with the ability to pull off near-impossible requests, even during the pandemic. Rwanda’s government requires a negative PCR Covid-19 test for visitors, but offers only the throat-swab version at Kigali airport—a problem for one Roar Africa client, desperate to go gorilla-trekking but phobic about anything touching his throat. Calmeyer set up a protocol change, arranging for a nose swab to be administered instead.

She has offices in Nairobi, Johannesburg and Cape Town, with the HQ in New York, and Roar Africa continued to pay drivers, freelance guides and its staff even during lockdown, as governmental support in situ was scant. Roar Africa supports several social programs, including an all-women anti-poaching academy in Kenya, which has so far graduated almost 30 fully trained rangers, and underwrites a scholarship at a college of tourism in South Africa that trains women to work at local hotels and lodges.

Catherine Heald, Remote Lands

Remote Lands’ expertise centers entirely on planning ultra-luxury trips for Americans to Asia, with offices in New York and Bangkok, plus country managers in every locale.

Heald and business partner Jay Tindall try to ensure a positive impression both for their guests and by them, encouraging clients, for example, to fund the digging of a water well for a local family whenever Siem Reap in Cambodia forms part of the itinerary. Conscious of the higher carbon footprint of itineraries that span the continent, the pair deliberately minimize the number of flights, private or commercial.

Last year, a Texas couple who were planning to go solo to Asia to celebrate both his 70th birthday and their 40th wedding anniversary had to postpone, and instead Heald helped them turn their three-week, four-country trip into a reunion with their grandchildren, whom they plan to take along this November.

Beks Ndlovu, Founder of African Bush Camps

Ndlovu has maintained momentum, despite the safari industry’s devastating year. The operator and hotelier kept his entire 600-person staff employed while also unveiling Khwai Leadwood, a new high-design lodge in Botswana’s Okavango Delta. It’s the latest in his eco-conscious properties; he has rolled out 16 of them in 15 years across three countries, a remarkable achievement. Each has a light footprint, via solar farms and water recycling, while also offering direct support to surrounding communities via the company’s ABC Foundation.

Even amid the logistical and medical constraints of the past year, Ndlovu seamlessly pulled off a recent journey for 14 people to Zimbabwe via private plane. “There was a lot of juggling, but it was well worth it,” says Ndlovu, who advocates for guests to spend their tourism dollars with brands that preserve wilderness areas and empower minorities and locals. “We continue to make the effort in identifying key talent that we can support and help rise to the surface.”

Cedric Reversade, Unique Properties & Events

Luxury travel was already tilting toward villa rentals before the pandemic made the idea of privacy, and self-containment, even more appealing. The London- and Paris-based Reversade and business partner Koskas offer discreet access to the world’s best rental homes in hot spots like Saint-Tropez, Ibiza and Capri while also acting as a travel concierge.

Take the California client who had bought a piano nobile on the Grand Canal in Venice, just before the first lockdown—and for whom they managed to secure a visa even when borders were shut. They also arranged excursions in the city, like a day on Burano with the glassblowers and a night visit to San Marco. Or the polo-loving English client who ditched her Chelsea townhouse for a seafront estate in Ibiza they’d wrangled on her behalf as lockdowns loomed; she then took trips around Spain, including lunching with a retired rejoneador from whom she bought two horses to ride at her country estate.

Cari Gray, Gray & Co.

Based in Santa Monica, Calif., Canadian expat Gray runs a lean team of about 10 with a particular expertise in active luxury. Take the trip to Argentina and Uruguay which shuttled her guests between cycling spots by private jet. It was due to start just as Argentina shuttered its borders last March, so Gray’s team pivoted, re-booking the group on a similar itinerary in California within 24 hours.

She’s determined that the lavish sums spent by clients truly uplift every destination, especially in developing areas. One pair of travelers sponsored GPS collars on a research project for rescued elephants at a local animal reserve in Namibia and witnessed the process firsthand. And an always recommended pit stop in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco is one of the late Eve Branson’s projects, which employs local women making crafts. It isn’t all do-gooding, though: Gray is renowned for arranging Michelin-caliber chefs to cater alfresco at the end of a day’s hiking.

James Jayasundera, Ampersand Travel

Sri Lanka is one of the rare destinations in Asia that have managed to create a program that allows visitors to experience the country during the pandemic, and no one is a better expert to help navigate an itinerary in that new normal than Rome-raised Jayasundera and his five-person, almost two-decade-old firm. Visitors can stay in designated hotels, he explains, and even go sightseeing, as long as they remain in “bio bubbles” to protect the local populace from imported infection.

Jayasundera started early, noting the preferences of each of his 12-strong family as they traveled constantly in his childhood, and has made such attention to detail a hallmark of his commercial operation. Inclusivity is a longtime passion, with a strong presence in the LGBTQ community among both staff and clients, and efforts to use female guides where possible to offset challenges around equality.

Mark Duguid, Carrier

The 60-person, Manchester-based Carrier plans less than 5,000 trips per year, allowing it to retain a reputation for flexibility. It’s willing to change itineraries within hours of departure and never charging amending fees. Duguid and his team were well placed, then, for the challenges of last year: See the couple from the UK who seized the chance to travel when permitted during a break in lockdowns, heading impromptu to the Maldives as an add-on to a last-minute visit to Dubai. Carrier recognized the appeal of the outdoors for travelers in the last year, too, and created an exclusive trip to Octola in Finland’s Arctic Circle, a five-star private wilderness reserve where local guides hosted open-fire lunches and ran excursions on husky sleds and snowmobiles.

Duguid reports a surge in so-called revenge spending, noting that the average booking value for 2021 has risen 90 percent year over year, with clients indulging in once-in-a-lifetime trips after lockdown restrictions loosen.

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Tablet is how you book the world’s most exciting hotels — places where you get a memorable experience, not just a room for the night. For over 20 years we've scoured the earth to find hotels that stand out for their style, service, and personality — regardless of price. And since 2018, we’re the official hotel selection of the MICHELIN Guide. If you care where you stay, you've come to the right place.

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• Curation : There are places out there that you wouldn't believe, and we help you discover them. For over 20 years we've scoured the earth to find hotels that stand out for their extraordinary style, service, and personality — regardless of price. We don’t have every hotel, we have every hotel that matters.
• Rates : We have the best rates online and discounts at hotels that never go on sale. Our team can help you locate deals and special offers and answer any questions about rate policies. And if you happen to find a lower rate elsewhere we'll match it and give you 6 months of Tablet Plus, absolutely free.
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Your Luxury Vacation

Vacations are the ultimate escape from the humdrum of everyday. So go all in and head for a luxury vacation destination. Maybe a week in the sublime Sonoran Desert, Southern California, on a Palm Springs luxury vacation : a favorite with the most extravagant travelers. Indulge in its incredible accommodation—from luxury-for-less to full-on five-star fabulous. If your idea of a luxury getaway is more intrepid than indulgent, go for a Galapagos luxury vacation package . This enchanting Ecuadorian archipelago is an adventurer’s dream, with activity in abundance. And when you can tear yourself away from the vivid wildlife, the accommodation is pretty impressive, too.

Book only the best luxury vacations

Choosing your luxury vacation destination is just the start. Elevate your opulent experience by adding all the extras for a grander getaway. When you search with Expedia, find your way to the filters, and check amenities to your heart’s content. Add ocean views, 5-star features, spas, hot tubs, pools...you name it, it's yours! When you’re ready to take the plunge, bundle your airfare, accommodation, and car rental in one to ensure the ultimate luxury of utter convenience.

Top destinations for Luxury Vacations

Get fancy with luxury Caribbean vacations

Finding luxury in the Caribbean is just about as easy as finding water. A luxury vacation here can include state-of-the-art amenities that will put you mere steps away from the beach, all while offering stunning extras like spa treatments, world-class cuisine, and watersport adventures such as sailing, kayaking, and more.

Enjoy luxury vacations in Florida

Luxury vacations in Florida will have you enjoying a taste of the high life by the beach, with emerald waters and white sands just steps away. A proper luxurious accommodation will offer private access to the beach, with some going so far as to provide equipment like surfboards and kayaks for you to enjoy.

Explore the wonders of Italy on a luxury vacation

On a luxury vacation to Italy, you can enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience. Italian luxury means access to some of the best shopping opportunities in the world. Additionally, you'll find pristine historical sites with guided tours, along with some famous beaches with relaxation and watersports available in equal measure. Of course, luxury is also available in the countryside by vibrant vineyards.

Embark on a luxury vacation to California

A luxury vacation in California can have you feeling like a star. Even when you're not trying to live the high life in Hollywood, you can enjoy world-class beaches and stunning parks from accommodations that offer high-end amenities like private pools and hot tubs. Many California rentals are designed to appeal to wealthy stars, so that's what you can expect to feel like.

Head north for a luxury vacation in Alaska

Journeying to Alaska on a luxury vacation means enjoying all the warmth you need while exploring the cold and fascinating northern land. Luxury accommodations in Alaska feature powerful heating systems as well as equipment to enjoy popular local activities like fishing and hiking. For especially refreshing luxury, be sure to check out local spas and saunas.

Your luxury vacation questions answered

What should i look for when booking a luxury vacation package.

If only the lap of luxury will do, these indulgent vacation packages are for you. Live the high life on pristine private beaches and choose opulent on-site spas or in-room massages. Pick anything designed to make life easy, be that childcare or a swim-up bar.

What are some of the most luxurious vacation spots?

St. Lucia puts the L (and the U) in luxury. Indulge your every whim in a stunning 5* suite with just the whispering winds of the Caribbean Sea for company. If you prefer a social sojourn, no place does bright-light luxury quite like Las Vegas . Think in-room pools, quick access casinos, and restaurant-grade room service.

Can I book a cheap luxury vacation?

If you thought luxury meant enormously expensive, think again. Cheap luxury vacations are just a few clicks away. You could bundle your accommodation, airfare, and car rental to keep prices down. And look to travel outside peak season for luxury trips that won’t break the bank. Whatever you’re looking for, just sort by price to find the best deals on Expedia.

How can I book the perfect luxury family vacation?

For little luxuries the kids will love, look for waterparks, easy beach access, and amazing on-site activities. Check the family-friendly box to find great breaks for the whole clan, and fiddle with the filters to add the likes of kids clubs and free Wi-Fi to your extravagant adventure. For snow babies, Whistler’s First Tracks Lodge boasts hot tubs with snowy mountain views and easy access to the Creekside Gondola. In warmer climes Encore Resort at Reunion in Orlando is slide-tastic and just round the corner from Mickey.

What are some destinations for a luxury vacation in the USA?

With luxury vacations on offer all year round, you can find extravagance every day in the USA. Tantalizing Tahoe City is postcard-perfect come snow or sun, while the natural wonders of Arizona are hard to resist. Of course, we can’t forget New England , where elegant country chateaus and sweeping leafy landscapes are the perfect setting for a luxurious break.

How can I find the best all-inclusive luxury beach vacations?

Check the all-inclusive filter and luxury options abound. Choose to add more magnificent touches too, say a spa, hot tub or ocean view—all discoverable using the amenities filter. Then, with everything booked and paid for together, you won’t have to lift another finger.

How can I find the best deals on luxury vacation packages?

The best deals on luxury vacations usually lie away from peak season. For more affordable indulgence, you could also look for locations less traveled—maybe Myanmar or Belize for luxury off the beaten path.

Can I book a luxury trip with free cancellation and/or flexible dates?

There are few luxuries like freedom and flexibility. Filter by payment option to find all available trips with free cancellation. You can pick from buy now, pay later plans too.

Why should I book my luxury vacation with Expedia?

Our incredible inventory, delightful deals, and flexible filters make it easy to build your dream luxury vacation. ATOL protection, and airfare, accommodation and car rental packages are the icing on the cake.

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• Luxury Vacations in Hawaii
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Through its extraordinary wildlife safaris, environmental majesty and ancient traditions, Africa is an epic storybook adventure. Experience unparalleled luxury via rainforest, coastline, dessert and mountain.

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Intoxicatingly beautiful and rooted in custom, Asia reveals a heightened mysticism and generosity of spirit throughout each celebrated region. Discover centuries of culture and engaging hospitality with every step.

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Choose from an ever-increasing portfolio of luxury resorts and private islands along the azure waters of the Caribbean. Marine adventure, culinary perfection and complete seclusion all have a spot on the day’s agenda.

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Soothing vistas and diverse eco-adventure await in Central America. See the sun rise over the rim of a volcano, roam the ruins of the Mayans, ride through nature conservatories and paddle through jungle mangroves.

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A multitude of environs– coast, country and city – make for a feast of diversity in Europe. The unique histories, gastronomic extravagance and cultural riches bring a deluxe profusion of Old World elegance.

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Ancient cultures and modern pleasures coalesce in the fascinating nations of the eastern Mediterranean and those ringing the Persian Gulf. Encounter pockets of immense historical significance, refined opulence and breathtaking beauty.

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Usa - private travel.

The home of the brave is a never-ending river of exploration from coast to coast, a constant and multifaceted melting pot, always on the boil to create, innovate, dazzle and delight. There are thousands of stories to listen to in the United States of America – of people and places, past, and future – and a myriad of ways to revel in them. Through its iconic landmarks, offbeat treasures, vast natural beauty, cultural eminence, and historic notability, the U.S.A. continues to crash through life at top speed. Go along for the ride!

Big sky country takes over with the wide-open roads of Texas, the mesmerizingly beautiful deserts of New Mexico and Arizona, and up into the mountains of Colorado and Utah

Visitors can never get enough of the United States of America and its continuous cascade of adventure: Repeat visits are very much required. As such, Americans themselves are big on seeking out the new and exciting pieces of the vast puzzle they haven’t yet visited. Where haven’t you been? The historic east coast, the birthplace of the nation, brims with significant cultural centers to get to know and love – Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Washington – their historic and traditional traits just as celebrated as their unvarnished and vociferous side. A sweep across the south delivers Florida’s beaches and a cavalcade of amusements, Nashville’s honky-tonks, New Orleans’s Mardi Gras, Dollywood, and Graceland. Moving west, big sky country takes over with the wide-open roads of Texas, the mesmerizingly beautiful deserts of New Mexico and Arizona, and up into the mountains of Colorado and Utah, where outdoor diversion is the main attraction on the rolling hills year-round. California is the country’s most-visited state, home to Hollywood’s lavish luxury, the manicured boulevards of Palm Springs, the uniqueness of San Francisco, and the wine regions north of that. If you have the will, nip over to Las Vegas for a nighttime stroll along its famous Strip.

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Bold architecture, foodie-forward passion, countless cool neighborhoods, and world-class art.... Read more

Larger than life and the absolute embodiment of southern hospitality, Dallas is a city of legends.... Read more

Innovative, art-forward culture, cutting-edge cuisine, pastel-colored Art Deco architecture, and a l... Read more

Is Hollywood beckoning? Or perhaps it’s the wellness-focused LA lifestyle, the cultural diversity ... Read more

Los Angeles

From bright lights to shadowy folklore, a Las Vegas luxury vacation is a 24-hour story waiting to be... Read more

It is quite simply, the Pacific Ocean’s original paradise. Private luxury travel to Hawaii squarel... Read more

New York is the intellectual, aesthetic, and artistic hub of a wheel turning in a million different ... Read more

Florida in its many guises presents an incredibly intriguing, whimsical, even eccentric mix of thing... Read more

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Meet our U.S.A. Travel Designers

What is your approach to planning bespoke luxury travel? Every client is looking for something unique. I like to develop a great relationship with our clients so that I am able to customize a trip to their exact preferences. It’s incredibly rewarding to plan and deliver someone's dream trip.

Colleen Shields

Senior Travel Designer

What is the most memorable vacation you have planned for a client? Private overland journeys along the silk road between China and the Stans. Discovering Scotland and Scottish cuisine by private yacht, fishing eagle, and local chef on board.

Gavin Crawford

Director of Bespoke Experiences

What is your approach to planning bespoke luxury travel? Our role can be so important. Whatever we plan will make for lasting memories and can seal or bond families, love, and friendly relationships. It is primarily about listening and understanding what a client wants; their needs, moods, and family dynamics.

Saloua Rezgui

If you’re considering bespoke private travel to the United States, let our expert Travel Designers make your vacation truly customized from start to finish. Having spent the last three decades traveling and experiencing the best luxury offerings firsthand, Tully Luxury Travel has an exceptional understanding of the U.S. We have the contacts and the relationships in place to ensure your travel needs are met – milestone celebrations, romantic dinners, private tours, dietary requirements, special room-service requests – all the details curated in step with your every wish. In America, our private travel specialists have insider information on how to make your visit memorable. We can tailor-make a trip itinerary that encompasses the regions you’re more interested in, with plans that are both manageable and marvelous. We can book you into the best hotels, find the perfect private tours and get you from A to B on an exclusive private plane. The time to start planning your next vacation is now. Our private luxury travel service also allows us to secure the best amenities and VIP extras at no additional cost. That’s the Tully Difference. Talk with a Travel Designer and start planning your bespoke luxury U.S.A. vacation today.

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More Inspiration

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Luxury Hotel Deals

Money doesn’t make you happy, that much is obvious. However, one thing it does do is allow you to travel to some magnificent destinations, all the time staying in unparalleled accommodation, enjoying great food and meeting a whole host of new, interesting people. While neither form of travel is better or worse than the other, luxury travel gives people the chance to be comfortable while still taking full advantage of everything the destination has to offer. Staying in shared dorms in hostels can be a great way of socialising and meeting fellow travellers, yet what do you do if someone is snoring all night? The comfortable hotel you find at a bargain price might seem like a great deal at the time, yet will it mean having to travel far from the city centre just to get to? Luxury travel means that you pay the extra money so you do not have to worry about any of the problems typically associated with cheaper backpacking holidays, like sharing a dorm, being far away from the main attractions or worrying about hygiene. If you can afford to stay somewhere a bit more luxurious, then the real question is simple: why not?

Hence, we have carefully compiled a list featuring the top five luxury travel websites for finding and booking accommodation, from the South of France to the south of Australia. If luxury travel is a viable option then it’s important that you find the best places to spend your money without getting ripped off. Each site was thoroughly assessed to ensure that a selection of only the best were selected, with each review containing a brief summary of the website, its highlights, what makes it unique and its potential drawbacks, while the pros and cons of each one are listed in an easy-to-read set of bullet points below each review. There are hundreds of sites all promising to offer you the greatest assortment of luxury accommodation options, however we’ve chosen only the ones that most suitably fit our criteria by considering a number of factors outlined below.

As is the case with the vast majority of the sites we review, a primary factor that was taken to into consideration was each website’s user interface and, ultimately, how easy it is to achieve what you set out to do whilst on it. A good, user-friendly interface with simple aesthetic is an obvious, yet often underrated, aspect of many websites, and something that can ultimately influence the entire experience for customers trying to find and book luxury accommodation. While a website may offer a vast array of options and added features, an overcrowded and confusing homepage can make using even the platform’s most simple function difficult for many users. Frequently, the best sites are those with a simple, minimalistic aesthetic that make no attempt to over complicate the service offered by adding too many extra features, while they also seem to be the ones with the fastest loading speeds. Those that have an abundance of pop-up adverts and promotions can also make searching for information a more stressful experience than it ought to be. Therefore, we made sure that, when reviewing the various luxury travel sites, we considered the overall usability and how easy it was to find what you were looking for before going on to assess any other factors.

When searching for accommodation, a number of different factors have to be considered to ensure you find the right type of place for you. The ability to quickly narrow parameters down so that they match customers’ specific requirements is a useful feature to have included, saving time in scrolling through pages and pages of suggestions, none of which are of interest to you. The option to narrow down and sort through search results often comes in the form of filters and ‘Sort By’ options. By applying various filters, you will be able to view all accommodation and rooms that match your specific requirements, while the ones that do not match will disappear from view. ‘Sort By’ options, meanwhile, work in a similar way to filters, however as the name suggests, they sort the results once users have added the appropriate filters, so that they can view options in either ascending or descending order depending on what they have selected. If, for example, you are looking for accommodation that is closest to the city centre with an en suite bathroom and wifi, you will be able to do so by applying filters and then sorting in ascending order by distance.

Sometimes, before even beginning to search for accommodation, you may wish to find out a bit more about a particular destination or, if you are lacking imagination, you might want to read some suggestions to gain inspiration of where to take a trip. Blogs can be great places for providing this information as well as useful tips, advice and general details on a variety of travel-related topics, aiding travellers in making the right choice when it comes to deciding where to stay. HomeAway, for example, offers a fantastic blog, featuring a whole host of different articles including inspiring travel ideas, city guides, latest property news and tips and advice for luxury travel. Each post is well researched and has a comments section below for readers to leave their feedback and expand on the topic. Villas of Distinction, meanwhile, has on its site a ‘travel guide’ section featured below each property, providing insight into the country and what to expect from a trip there. Items include Must-See, Activities, Golf, Beaches, Entertainment, Shopping and Travel Tips. Ultimately, these contribute towards making the websites more comprehensive and resourceful for travellers, and were therefore factored into the review process.

Last, but not least, we looked the level of customer service offered by each of the various luxury travel sites. Included in this was the range of options for actually getting into contact with customer service in the first place, as just one form of contact can feel limited, especially when abroad and making a phone call has the potential to be expensive. The presence of an live online chat was considered a great addition, where customers are quickly put in contact with a travel agent who is on hand to clear up any queries they may have without the need to login to their email or wait in line on the phone. Villa Luxe is one example of a site that offers 24/7 customer support before, during and after your stay, while their experts can help recommend the ideal accommodation for all occasions, including romantic retreats, weddings, family reunions and corporate events. Nevertheless, once in contact, the level of attention is important, as there is little use in being told there is 24/7 customer support without somebody quickly responding to your queries on the other end. Each one was therefore assessed not only on how many ways there were of getting into contact but also how prompt the agents were at replying and how fast they could get you an answer.

Overall, this list provides a selection of the five most helpful luxury travel booking sites among hundreds, combining all of the above features to single out only the top five. Being able to fork out when it comes to travelling is not something all of us have access to, however for those that do, it’s important to know where to go and where to stay once there Hence, we have taken into account the aforementioned factors to provide you with only the very best sites for finding and booking luxury accommodation. With this list you have everything you need in one convenient place, saving you time in scrolling through pages of results.

Reader's Digest

22 Luxury Camping Adventures That Will Make You an Outdoors Person

Posted: February 2, 2024 | Last updated: February 2, 2024

The dreamiest luxury camping sites

If you long for a vacation filled with natural splendor, stargazing and s'mores — but setting up camp and going without a hot shower sound like the stuff of nightmares—glamping is your way to answer the call of the wild. What is glamping , you ask? A portmanteau of "glamorous" and "camping," glamping is luxury camping that allows many creature comforts like running water, flushing toilets, swimming pools, air-conditioning, TVs, high-thread-count sheets, electricity—and the option to stand up straight without banging your head into the top of a tent. Glamping is also an excellent style of camping for beginners who want to dip a toe into appreciating nature without drowning in the deep end of pit toilets and shoe spider checks.

And there's a ton of variety with both the setting and the type of accommodation. Canvas safari tents in a wooded wonderland are just the beginning. You could also try yurt camping at the beach, an updated Airstream in the desert or a luxe tent on the terrace of a five-star hotel. There are also properties outfitted with treehouses, old-school motorhomes, teepees, vintage circus trailers and transparent bubbles. To help you find the perfect tent that doesn't require you pitching it, we've rounded up the best luxury campsites in North America.

How we chose the best luxury camping sites

This outdoorsy travel trend has been steadily gaining popularity since the early 2000s, so there's no shortage of luxury camping options. But be warned: Not all glampgrounds are created equal. To come up with our list of the best, we sought out the luxury-camping brands that are providing stellar options, scoured star ratings and user reviews, consulted expert recommendations and called on our personal experiences with boutique camping.

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Under Canvas North Yellowstone-Paradise Valley, Montana

What do you get when you combine a West Elm aesthetic, king-size beds, wood-burning stoves, a bucket-list national park and the breathtaking setting of the hit TV show Yellowstone ? This luxury camping leader's newest edition near Gardiner and the wildlife-viewing mecca that is the Lamar Valley.

When you aren't traipsing through the park looking at bison and geysers, you can munch on a menu filled with locally sourced produce, take a morning yoga class, tap your toes to live music or enjoy complimentary s'mores by the fire. The brand also offers similar, well-curated stays at sites near Mount Rushmore, Zion National Park, Acadia National Park, the Grand Canyon, Glacier National Park and Lake Powell.

Firelight Camps, New York

Have an affinity for nature hikes that end in waterfalls and local wine? Yeah, we do too. Head to this upstate New York luxury camping glampground in Ithaca, a dog-friendly spot that has tents with wood floors and covered porches and musicians playing fireside in an outdoor lounge. Continental breakfast is complimentary, and guests who want to hike will love that the access to the Upper and Lower Buttermilk Falls trails is immediate.

The nearby Finger Lakes wine region creates fermented wines and ciders that are served year-round at the on-site bar, but when autumn hits, out comes the hot chocolate and mulled cider. You can also hike with a foraging expert. Speaking of hiking, here's where to find the best hiking trail in every state .

Campera Hotel Burbuja, Baja California, Mexico

The beach-ball-shaped accommodations at this viny eco-resort in Mexico's wine country of Valle de Guadalupe in Baja Norte—a 90-minute road trip from San Diego—are climate controlled, stock locally made organic soaps and start at less than $200 a night. Suites have bathrooms inside, while smaller spheres have facilities just outside the door. Deluxe suites have jacuzzis.

The translucent walls give guests unobstructed views of twinkling night skies and surrounding vineyards—the very same vines used to make the red and white wine stocked in the mini-fridge. Privacy is not a concern, as hay bale walls separate each bubble and beds are surrounded by closable curtains. And you can order room service from the winery's restaurant, so there's no need to do any camp cooking if you aren't inclined.

Mirror Hotel, North Carolina

Twenty miles outside of Asheville, these luxury camping accommodations reflect the forested beauty of the 55 pristine acres where it sits and the starry sky above. Opened in summer 2023, the 18 "invisible" cabins range from three-bedroom on-stilts to smaller ones located on the ground. They are covered in mirrored panels—as well as a protective coating to prevent bird strikes. They all feature custom cabinetry, built-in beds, a hot tub, an outdoor dining room and an outdoor pizza oven. After making and partaking in a delicious pie, gather around the fire pit on the patio for some rollicking campfire songs and campfire stories .

The Cozy Peach, Arizona

With more than 300 days a year of sunshine and spectacular Sonoran Desert sunsets, fun in the sun awaits in Arizona's Queen Creek. Schnepf Farms , a 300-acre organic peach farm and fourth-generation homestead on Mesa's acclaimed Fresh Foodie Trail, has been putting folks up in their collection of authentic retro auto trailers (mostly circa the 1950s to 1970s) since 2018.

The trailers are spruced up with heat and air, microwaves, shabby chic linens, plumbing, hardwood floors and adorable striped canopies, and overnight stays include a farm-fresh breakfast. You can also partake in seasonal activities like pick-your-own flowers and produce, corn mazes, farm-to-fork dinners, cooking classes and petting zoos. Use provided bicycles to ride to the meadow treehouse or the secret library hidden in a pine-tree forest. If you want to continue camping in a mobile house on wheels, check out the best RV parks in every state .

Dreher Island State Park, South Carolina

If you're looking for something slightly less glampy, check in to one of 10 lakeside camper cabins at this secluded state park in Lake Murray, South Carolina, that also has excellent bass fishing and bird watching. (Purple martins flutter around from June to August.) Cabins are furnished with a double bed and a set of bunk beds, temperature control, a picnic table and indoor lighting—but they don't have running water. All cooking must be done outside with the provided water spigot, fire ring and grill. And if you're looking for something more rustic after you've mastered the art of glamping, book a vacation to one of these best campsites in every state.

Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday, California

This is not your grandpa's KOA. Many of the classic KOA campgrounds across the United States are getting glam makeovers, including this one on California's central coast in Watsonville. It's perfect for camping with pets , and it's still possible to rough it in a regular tent or pull up in an RV, should you want to. But since glamping means you don't have to sleep on uneven ground, you can rent a camping cabin and walk from the private patio through French doors to snooze in a four-poster bed with real sheets.

The new camping cabins also feature a Keurig coffee bar and refrigerator. Not on a romantic rendezvous for two? Deluxe cabins and Airstreams sleep four or six and have cable and bathrooms inside. It's a mile from Manresa State Beach, but the pool, a train, outdoor movies, jumping pillow, tie-dyed T-shirt making and palm-tree climbing give families multiple reasons to kick it within KOA walls.

Mendocino Grove, California

Situated on a tree-dotted bluff looking out across the Pacific in Mendocino, California, this modern camping experience gives visitors the best of both worlds: beaches and woods. It's also a two-minute drive or 20-minute walk to an adorable seaside village full of restaurants, shops and an ice cream parlor that scoops a regional specialty flavor made from candy-cap mushrooms.

The husband-and-wife team behind Mendocino Grove has thought of everything: heated beds, leather butterfly chairs on redwood decks, a lending library, a dog wash, a 24-hour tea bar, hammocks, campfire valet and fresh flower arrangements in the bathrooms. There's also yoga on weekends.

Yonder Escalante, Utah

This magical 20-acre glampsite is in the middle of Southern Utah's Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, an area home to slot canyons, colorful rock hoodoos, petrified forests, scenic byways, massive ravines, Native American spiritual spots and mountain vistas. It's also within an easy drive to the Dixie National Forest and Bryce Canyon National Park.

Yonder's accommodations comprise 22 custom-designed cabins, 10 renovated Airstreams and 19 RV and campsites—all of which include private fire pits and access to the property's high-design common areas. Those areas feature a pool, a library lounge where complimentary breakfast is served—as you enjoy one of the best books of all time —a food truck, a general store where alcohol and gourmet meal kits are sold and a drive-in theater where movies are shown nightly. Already an awesome place to get some R&R, it was recently upgraded with the intro of larger, more deluxe cabins that have en-suite bathrooms, outdoor showers and drive-up access.

Dunton River Camp, Colorado

Dunton River Camp is a grand ranch that dates back to the 1800s, and it is now home to one of the Centennial State's finest luxury camping options from June through October. Whether you prefer river fork or mountain views, their spacious digs are warmed by gas stoves, have six-foot soaking tubs in en-suite bathrooms and come with two mountain bikes to cruise around the surrounding verdant valley. Your stay, priced for two, includes all meals, often made with ingredients from the on-site farm and vineyard, drinks—alcoholic or otherwise—at the farmhouse and use of the sauna. And if you're bringing any gear from home, consider investing in one of these comfy camping chairs .

Huttopia White Mountains, New Hampshire

Less than three hours by car from Boston, Huttopia transports couples and families to a whole new world of chirping birds, babbling brooks and trees as far as the eye can see. Located in the town of Albany, Huttopia has three kinds of tents, all stocked with linens, cookware, dishware and mini-fridges. Accommodations come in both lakefront or brookside spots, and they have private bathrooms and showers. You can also go super luxe and book the chalet—it's built entirely of wood and heated with a stove.

On hot days, you can cool off in the saltwater pool or in Iona Lake, which campers access from the private beach, where yoga classes are also held. Rent canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards from the beach hut, and reward the workout by sipping craft beers and nibbling samples from local farmers and makers. And for competitive types, you can challenge other guests to foosball and ping-pong matches in the central lodge. Other Huttopia outposts can be found in Canada, the Adirondacks, Northern California wine country, the Netherlands and Maine.

Eastwind Hotel, New York

Say goodbye to city hustle and hello to hygge— a hip Danish philosophy where you attain cozy contentment and well-being by enjoying life's simple pleasures—at this Scandinavian-inspired retreat in the Catskills in Windham, New York. While they offer regular rooms inside the revamped 1920s lodge, it is the three A-frame lushnas (think: teepee meets cabin) that are truly worth the journey. They have Frette linens on queen beds, plaid Fairbault blankets, Zenology bath products, a triangular picture window and a private bathroom with a sauna.

When you're hungry, barbecue kits are available upon request, or you can join the communal breakfast of German pancakes and housemade granola. The company recently expanded to open similar serene Empire State spaces in Lake Placid, which has a vintage library, bicycles and petite lushnas, and Oliverea Valley, which upped the Scandi vibe with triangular saunas.

AutoCamp Joshua Tree, California

This trusted luxury-camping brand runs six glamping sites in four states, with three more set to open by 2024. Many of its finest camps are within a stone's throw of a national park like Yellowstone, Zion or this outpost , which opened in 2022 in the high desert less than 10 miles from Joshua Tree National Park.

With a swimming pool under the stars, communal fire pits, air conditioning and heating—plus a wide selection of craft beer, wine and hard kombucha (which pair well with the cafe's chicken pot pie) to warm your insides—this spot is a four-season stay.

Each Airstream unit has a toilet and rain shower, which means no midnight walks to the restrooms. They're also tricked out with memory-foam mattresses, an outdoor dining area with a personal fire pit, a TV and coffee from a premium indie roaster. There are a few ADA-compliant units available too.

The Resort at Paws Up, Montana

The Resort at Paws Up in Greenough, Montana, is luxury camping at its finest. Situated within a 37,000-acre working cattle ranch along the Blackfoot River, its six distinct camps feature safari tents with heated floors, air conditioning, soaking tubs (two tents further level up bath time with free-standing copper tubs) and furnished decks. You may wind up loving it so much that you'll want to live in a tent every summer .

From May through October, sporty guests can fly-fish steps from their accommodations or rent e-bikes or off-road vehicles. You can also watch a cooking demo from a master chef, ride in a hot-air balloon, enjoy a horse-drawn wagon ride or head to Spa Town for a four-handed massage on a heated table housed in—what else?—a tent. This place is a splurge, but it does include some complimentary endeavors like chuck wagon dinners with a cowboy poet, archery and mountain biking.

The Gwen Hotel, Illinois

Need to go off-grid in baby steps? Urban glamping is the answer. The Gwen , one of Chicago's historic downtown high-rises and a member of The Luxury Collection of hotels, sets up "camp" on its 16th-floor terrace from May through the end of September. Anxious city folk will be comforted by the sounds of Michigan Avenue and the ability to pop next door to Nordstrom to pick up a spare pair of shorts.

The Lotus Belle tent is 16 feet in diameter and filled with boho-design delights like drum-shaped mango wood side tables, hand-knotted macramé cushions, bronze Malta lanterns and a braided jute rug. Their glamping package includes welcome bites and access to a suite that has a wet bar and dining room, round-trip airport transportation and gold-leaf-garnished gourmet s'mores at turndown.

Coldwater Gardens, Florida

Get some peace and quiet in the Panhandle in Milton at this 350-acre eco-resort with seven miles of trails, private sandbars on the creek, cycling paths and pine groves. Tiny-house cabanas have outdoor showers, stainless steel open-air kitchens and a personal fire pit. You can also elevate your trip by booking the contemporary treehouse.

Surrounded by mature magnolia trees and raised away from the ground, lap up the luxury of climate control, a covered deck, a mini-fridge and an outdoor shower. Or chillax with your crew on an open-air Stargazer platform—equipped with hammock chairs, a grill and a solar-powered charging station.

Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge, British Columbia

Accessible only by seaplane, helicopter or boat, this remote Vancouver Island compound of 25 prospector tents has vintage oil lamps and antiques—but its amenities and service levels are thoroughly modern and indulgent. Porches peek out at the water's edge of an intertidal estuary teaming with marine and birdlife .

If it starts to sprinkle—as rainforests are prone to do—curl up with a great book on the squishy duvet and warm yourself by the cast-iron stove. After an active day of included activities like stand-up paddleboarding, sea kayaking and rappelling, rinse off in the outdoor cedar shower or take advantage of the complimentary massage. Their all-inclusive program also covers food and beverages.

Hotel Luna Mystica, New Mexico

Chances are, if you hear the words "trailers" and "the New Mexico desert" in the same sentence, you think of Walter White and Jesse Pinkman. But venturing out to this undeniably cool glampground in Taos is more like breaking good than breaking bad. It has stellar stargazing, optimal positioning on a tranquil mesa surrounded by mountains and a collection of retro traveling tins that look like they popped out of Wes Anderson's imagination.

Rooms are decorated in millennial pink with tin wall coverings, and they offer French presses, Blue Feather Soap bathroom amenities and outdoor decks that are Instagram-ready. The Taos Mesa Brewery is 12 feet away for convenient whistle wetting.

Tennessee Glamping, Tennessee

These geodesic glamping domes in the South Cumberland Mountains between Chattanooga and Nashville are chock-full of modern conveniences such as private bathrooms, robes, kitchens with refrigerators and coffeemakers, hot water and propane grills. Stare at the stars or the woods that surround you through clear panes if it's chilly—or you can't be bothered with bugs.

You can also play provided board games on the deck near the fire pit or unroll the yoga mats to limber up before heading out to hike Foster Falls or the Fiery Gizzard Trail nearby. Be sure to invest in the best hiking boots to avoid sore feet. But if you come back from trekking with barking dogs, not to worry: There's a hot tub with your reservation's name written on it.

Cypress Valley, Texas

Who wouldn't jump at the chance to vacation in the round in Texas Hill Country? This popular spot is a wedding venue/bison ranch/working farm in Spicewood, and it offers a variety of luxury camping accommodations. Their tents and treehouses are fit for the pages of Architectural Digest , and they also have an aerial yurt.

Nestled in a stand of cypresses above a ravine and creek, the bedroom in their Lofthaven treehouse is wrapped around the trunk and connected to a 700 square-foot kitchenette and bathhouse with a waterfall tub made from regional wood and stone. When you aren't napping in a hammock, play lawn games or zipline into the pond. If you time your trip right, you could wind up taking super bloom photos, since this part of the Lone Star State is known for its wildflowers.

Camp Long Creek, Missouri

If you're a golf nut, a fishing fanatic or merely obsessed with Jason Bateman's Emmy-nominated Ozark (one of the best shows to binge on Netflix ), this luxury campground in the heart of the Ozark Mountains is the place for you. Camp Long Creek offers rustic elegance and style across all the rentals they offer. Its 40 tents have outdoor tubs and king-size canopy beds. Camp cabins come with living rooms, and there's even a family unit with a kid-sized teepee in the courtyard. Their camp huts look like a linear train car and are decorated in black-and-white modern-farmhouse style. Lounge by the infinity pool, swim at the beach on Table Rock Lake, rent a boat or join a fishing trip at the adjacent marina. You're even welcomed with s'mores kits that are handed out upon arrival.

ULUM Moab, Utah

The latest brainchild of the Under Canvas glamping company, ULUM  takes national park camping to the next level. A stone's throw away from both Canyonlands and Arches National Parks, and near enough to Moab for supply runs, ULUM (pronounced ooh-loom) was built with local stone, wood and buff canvas to bring the outside in—and it's drenched in natural light. Relax in a plush tent with a king-size bed, rain showers, Aesop toiletries, wood-burning stove and private deck. If you're feeling social, you can get to know other travelers at the lounge, the dining hall or the three dipping pools. By day, stare out to 100-foot cliffs and views of Looking Glass Arch. By night, it's all about looking up into twinkling dark-sky territory.

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Sober Travelers Find Something to Savor in Wine Country

Mocktail trails, olive oil tours and elevated dining experiences are among the many ways the renowned wine-producing areas of Sonoma, Mendoza and Tuscany are appealing to sober or sober-curious travelers.

By Christine Chitnis

Amy Snook knows more about wine than your average traveler. Originally from California, she now lives in the Douro Valley of Portugal, her partner works in the wine industry, and she has visited 47 countries, many of which have celebrated viticulture. But seven years ago, on a trip to Mendoza, a winemaking region in the foothills of Argentina’s Andes Mountains, she opted to abstain from drinking alcohol, a decision she would repeat in future travels.

“It’s such a long flight to Argentina, and I was only there for 10 days,” said Ms. Snook, 34, a publishing professional. “I’m aware of how alcohol affects me, and I chose to prioritize feeling amazing every day of the trip over dealing with a hangover.”

During her visit, Ms. Snook bicycled between vineyards, reveled in breathtaking scenery, relaxed with spa treatments and engaged with sommeliers and winemakers, coming away with a new appreciation for sustainable and regenerative agriculture.

“The obvious question when you tell someone that you aren’t drinking is, ‘Out of all the places you could go, why travel to wine country?’” she said. “But to me, it makes perfect sense because these regions offer all the perks of luxury travel — wellness amenities, beautiful landscapes and fine dining.”

With 41 percent of Americans seeking to reduce their alcohol intake, according to a consumer-sentiment study released in January by NCSolutions, Ms. Snook’s experience is part of a larger trend: the rise of sober-curious or mindful drinking. While sober travel is hardly a new concept, its popularity is surging to new heights — particularly among younger generations — and forcing a reckoning in the wine industry. The 2024 State of the U.S. Wine Industry report , an annual forecast of market conditions and trends written by the wine-business analyst Rob McMillan, found that 52 percent of consumers ages 21 to 34 believe that consuming alcohol, even in moderation, is bad for your health.

This trend is reshaping travel to world-class wine destinations like Sonoma County, in California, as well as Mendoza and Tuscany. Blessed with temperate climates, extended growing seasons, fertile soils, rich histories and breathtaking vistas, these renowned wine locales are expanding their offerings to attract drinkers and nondrinkers.

Here are some of the restaurants, tour groups and wineries in those regions that are reinventing the travel experience to be more inclusive of the sober-curious.

Dining in Sonoma

If wine is a true expression of the land, embodying the unique characteristics of its soil, weather and the meticulous craftsmanship of those who cultivate it, can you still forge that connection without drinking?

At Cyrus , a Michelin-starred fine dining destination in Geyserville , Calif., the answer is a resounding yes. Sonoma County, double the size of neighboring Napa, made conscious decisions to protect and diversify its land use, ensuring grapes as well as agricultural crops were grown. Douglas Keane, Cyrus’s owner and chef, highlights the local harvest by working with small farms and purveyors to source his ingredients. Crosnes — a Chinese artichoke — from Alexander Valley Vineyards gardens, yuzu and finger limes from the citrus grower David Levine, and cheesefrom Andante Dairy have all ended up on Cyrus’s menu.

Also on the menu: Kally , an alcohol-free wine alternative produced with housemade organic verjuice and sourced from Northern California. Served at more than 15 other Michelin-starred restaurants, Kally’s bottles include Early Chardonnay, which is crisp, bright and changes flavor and aroma as it moves across the palate, similar to a fine wine. A tart, vibrant Golden Sparkler has notes of jasmine and citrus, and a floral, fruity Rosé Sparkler offers hints of strawberry and hibiscus.

“Chefs and sommeliers are interested in having precise nonalcoholic pairings. Their food was created to be prepared with sophisticated drinks, not just sparkling water,” said Scott Mitic, who created the beverage along with his wife, Katie.

Customers, too, appreciate having a choice, he said, noting that many of Kally’s most loyal drinkers are wine enthusiasts. “This is not an abstinence movement; it is a moderation movement.”

Cyrus Schultz, the wine director and sommelier at Cyrus, aims to create drinks that make sober guests feel just as special, if not more, than those indulging in traditional wine pairings. His nonalcoholic creations include the Rosé Champagne, an effervescent blend of coconut, white sesame, cherry blossom and lime, and the Apple Martini, a sweet, herbaceous concoction of pink lady apple, fennel and mint olive oil.

“The intention is never to mimic alcohol products, but to construct the pairings similarly to how a chef looks at a menu — different textures, temperatures and flavor profiles,” Mr. Schultz said.

These efforts are not limited to one restaurant. Chris Vomvolakis, senior manager of consumer public relations at Sonoma County Tourism , said bars, restaurants and wineries across the region are recognizing that it’s not all about wine.

The town of Healdsburg recently created the Mocktail Trail , with eight participating restaurants, and Meadowcroft Wines in the town of Sonoma curated a flight of original zero-proof cocktails. David Messerli, Meadowcroft’s marketing and strategy director, said the winery encourages guests “to discern aromas, flavors and nuances, much like they would with wine.”

“For those opting out of alcohol, we felt there was more we could do,” he said. “People have various reasons for abstaining from alcohol, and no one should feel excluded because of it.”

Women-led luxury in Mendoza

Mendoza, renowned for its malbec wines and stunning Andean landscapes, is no stranger to luxury accouterments, but sober guests? That is a newer phenomenon. “We have definitely noticed an increase in guests seeking nonalcoholic travel options in recent years,” said Victoria Stiles, sales manager at Cavas Wine Lodge , a luxury 18-room hotel set amid a 55-acre vineyard.

At Cavas, wine may be the main attraction, but guests can book spa treatments using vine and grape-seed extracts, join yoga sessions on the private terrace overlooking the Andes and vineyards, and take full-day hiking excursions to Aconcagua Provincial Park, a rugged, mountainous destination that is home to Mount Aconcagua, South America’s highest peak.

Wild Terrains , a certified B-Corp travel company specializing in experiences for women, has planned three days of a 10-day Argentina tour to be sober-inclusive in Mendoza. Built around women-owned businesses, stops include boutique lodging at Entre Cielos , horseback riding in the Andean foothills, home-cooked asado at Estancia Los Chulengos and a private dining experience at Michelin-starred Zonda Cocina de Paisaje . The meal offers special mocktail pairings with distinct flavors like lemon verbena, beets and burro, an herb used to make digestive teas and infusions.

“In Mendoza, our trip centers on talented female winemakers who are pushing boundaries in a historically male-dominated industry,” said Lauren Bates, founder of Wild Terrains. “While these experiences include wine tastings, we want sober travelers to feel intentionally included even if they are skipping the wine tasting.”

Sofia Pescarmona, owner of the Bodega Lagarde vineyard and Zonda Cocina de Paisaje, said that while the restaurant experience aims to showcase their wine, nondrinkers will also appreciate it.

“We truly believe we can offer an elevated experience for those who don’t drink wine by highlighting other seasonal produce grown on our property,” she said.

Tasting olive oil in Tuscany

Wine tastings epitomize indulgence, especially immersed in the heart of Tuscany, when visitors can savor glass after glass of Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Salvatore Ferragamo Jr., chief executive of the Il Borro wine estate and grandson of the fashion house’s founder, encourages guests to find other ways to indulge.

“The olive harvests in the autumn produce the region’s spicy, piquant ‘green gold,’” said Mr. Ferragamo.

Il Borro, in Tuscany’s Valdarno, is a meticulously restored medieval village that includes 58 suites, three vacation villas, two restaurants, stables, working vineyards and olive groves. Olive oil production began in 1996, following the recovery of varieties like Frantoio, Moraiolo and Leccino that had long been neglected. Now, after touring some 80 acres of organic groves, guests can engage in a tasting experience of two distinct oils, one full-bodied with floral, fruity and grassy aromas, the other robust, peppery and dark.

Another option, Tuscan Organic Tours , offers immersive daylong experiences that delve into wine and oil but also other rich agricultural offerings. Delicious tours with private transportation highlight tastes and flavors that include Pecorino di Pienza, one of the most renowned Italian cheeses, saffron and fresh pastas. The tours include visits to organic farms, lunches, tastings, and opportunities to participate in cheese-making and saffron harvesting.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

Rail spikes hammered, bullet train being built…

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Rail spikes hammered, bullet train being built from sin city to the city of angels.

FILE – A Brightline train is shown at a station in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., on Jan. 11, 2018. A fast-tracked plan to build a high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area is set to mark the start of construction. Brightline West and U.S. transportation secretary and other officials projecting that millions of ticket-buyers will be boarding trains by 2028. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee, File)

This Jan. 25, 2012, photo shows the site of a proposed station for the high-speed rail line to Las Vegas at the end of the Dale Evans Parkway exit from Interstate 15, on the far outskirts of the Mojave Desert city of Victorville, Calif. Brightline West and U.S. transportation secretary and other officials projecting that millions of ticket-buyers will be boarding trains by 2028. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)

FILE – This photo Jan. 25, 2012, photo shows the site of a proposed station for a high-speed rail line to Las Vegas, foreground, with Interstate 15 in the background, on the far outskirts of Victorville, Calif., the Mojave Desert city on the route from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. Brightline West and U.S. transportation secretary and other officials projecting that millions of ticket-buyers will be boarding trains by 2028. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)

FILE – This photo taken Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2012, shows the site of a proposed station for a high-speed rail line to Las Vegas, background, at the end of the Dale Evans Parkway exit from Interstate 15, on the far outskirts of the Mojave Desert city of Victorville, Calif. Brightline West and U.S. transportation secretary and other officials projecting that millions of ticket-buyers will be boarding trains by 2028. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)

By KEN RITTER (Associated Press)

LAS VEGAS (AP) — A $12 billion passenger bullet train linking Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area was dubbed the first true high-speed rail line in the nation on Monday, with the private company building it predicting millions of ticket-buyers will be boarding trains by 2028.

“People have been dreaming of high-speed rail in America for decades,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg before taking a stage with union representatives and company officials at the future site of a terminal to be built just south of the Las Vegas Strip. “It’s really happening this time.”

Buttigieg cited Biden administration support for the project that he said will bring thousands of union jobs, boost local economies and cut traffic and air pollution.

Brightline West, whose sister company already operates a fast train between Miami and Orlando in Florida, aims to lay 218 miles (351 kilometers) of new track almost all in the median of Interstate 15 between Las Vegas and Rancho Cucamonga, California. It would link there with a commuter rail connection to downtown Los Angeles. A station also is planned in San Bernardino County’s Victorville area.

Company officials say the goal is to have trains exceeding speeds of 186 mph (300 kph) — comparable to Japan’s Shinkansen bullet trains — operating in time for the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028.

“I believe we’ll look back at today and say, ’This was the birth of an industry of high-speed rail,’” Brightline Holdings founder Wes Edens said Monday.

The company aims to link U.S. cities that are too near each other for air travel to make sense and too far for people to drive.

Brightline received Biden administration backing including a $3 billion grant from federal infrastructure funds and recent approval to sell another $2.5 billion in tax-exempt bonds. The company won federal authorization in 2020 to sell $1 billion in similar bonds.

Brightline West says electric-powered trains will cut the four-hour trip across the Mojave Desert to a little more than two hours. It projects 11 million one-way passengers per year, with fares that Edens said will be comparable to airline ticket costs. The trains will offer rest rooms, Wi-Fi, food and beverage sales and the option to check luggage.

Officials hope the train line will relieve congestion on I-15, where drivers often sit in miles of crawling traffic while returning home to Southern California from a Las Vegas weekend. An average of more than 44,000 automobiles per day crossed the California-Nevada state line on I-15 in 2023, according to Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority data.

Florida-based Brightline Holdings’ Miami-line debuted in 2018 and expanded service to Orlando International Airport last September with trains reaching speeds up to 125 mph (200 kph). It offers 16 round-trips per day with one-way tickets for the 235-mile (378-kilometer) distance costing about $80.

Other fast trains in the U.S. include Amtrak’s Acela, which can top 150 mph (241 kph) between Boston and Washington, D.C. But fast train connections for other U.S. cities have been floated, including Dallas to Houston ; Atlanta to Charlotte, North Carolina ; Chicago to St. Louis ; and Seattle to Portland, Oregon. Most have faced delays.

In California, a proposed 500-mile (805-kilometer) rail line linking Los Angeles and San Francisco was approved by voters in 2008, but has been beset by rising costs and routing disputes . A 2022 business plan by the California High-Speed Rail Authority projected the cost had more than tripled to $105 billion.

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