Family Travel

Discover the Soul of Every Destination with A&K Luxury Expedition Cruises

Discover the Soul of Every Destination with A&K Luxury Expedition Cruises

There are numerous advantages to opting for small ship travel, but what I find most compelling is the extraordinary access it offers to extraordinary destinations with thrilling expeditions. The choices available are both varied and enthralling, ranging from encountering polar bears in the vast icy terrains of the Arctic to delving into the deep-rooted history and vibrant culture of Italy. Moreover, when you entrust me with planning your upcoming journey, you can look forward to a range of exclusive benefits, such as upgrades to luxurious staterooms, air credits, and unique onboard perks that cannot be obtained elsewhere.

Ditch the Hassle: 10 Reasons Why Luxury Travelers Need a Travel Agent

Ditch the Hassle: 10 Reasons Why Luxury Travelers Need a Travel Agent

Luxury travel demands an unparalleled level of service, unique experiences, and complete peace of mind. For discerning travelers, navigating the world of online booking platforms can be a hassle, and these platforms often fall short of meeting their high expectations. This is where travel agents come into the picture, offering a degree of expertise, personalization, and support that surpasses any online platform. In this blog post, we explore the top 10 reasons why luxury travelers should consider using a travel agent.

Beyond the Big Five: Explore Rwanda, Kenya & Seychelles on an Epic Wildlife Adventure

Beyond the Big Five: Explore Rwanda, Kenya & Seychelles on an Epic Wildlife Adventure

African journeys offer a captivating blend of adventure, luxury, culture and conservation — an irresistible travel choice among many of my clients. I’m excited to tell you about some truly remarkable safaris, as well as the luxury of private jet travel and the awe-inspiring experience of gorilla trekking. Reach out soon, and let’s make your expedition dreams a reality.

Explore America's Colors: Top Vibrant Destinations for Your Ultimate Summer Adventure

Explore America's Colors: Top Vibrant Destinations for Your Ultimate Summer Adventure

Our minimal social interactions and day-to-day routines at home have created an intense longing for a great escape. Now that the U.S. and many countries are undergoing phased re-openings, we’re optimistic for the future! After all, travel is not merely freeing. It unites, inspires, educates, and is a constant reminder that the diversity of peoples, landscapes, cultures, and cuisines is why we love exploring the U.S. and the world at large. While we can't wait to dust off our passports when the time is right, who needs one when we’re reminded of how much there is to explore in our own backyard? From colorful beaches and jaw-dropping coastlines to otherworldly sights and geologic wonders, below are four uniquely American experiences saturated in natural beauty and intrigue.

FAMILY LOVE

FAMILY LOVE

They say family is everything, but when you plan your annual family vacation, do you take the easy road (for the sake of keeping your sanity) or the road less traveled (for the sake of enriching your experience)?

We suggest getting the best of both worlds with the support of a professional travel planner. Below are four slightly out-of-the-box family vacation ideas with opportunities for education, cultural immersion, and of course, photo albums filled front to back with precious memories.

Cruising into Savings: Mastering Wave Season for Unbeatable Deals

Cruising into Savings: Mastering Wave Season for Unbeatable Deals

Expert insights on sifting through the season's abundant offers to find the real gems.

Discovering travel deals is a breeze when you know the optimal booking period. For cruise enthusiasts, the dawn of the new year marks an ideal time to secure attractive fares. This period, known as "wave season," spans from January through March and is renowned for the significant deals and discounts offered by cruise lines.

LET IT SNOW

EMBRACE THE WONDER OF WINTER AT THESE RESORTS

They say no two snowflakes are alike, and we believe the same to be true for each traveler. While some head to warmer weather during the colder months, others flock straight to the mountains with their own unique visions of a snowy retreat. If views of sparkling white landscapes warm you from the inside out, there is still plenty of time to plan a visit to one of the many luxury resorts in our portfolio of U.S. hotels before the winter season ends. Enjoy the snowy ambiance of idealistic destinations along with gourmet cuisine, exceptional service, outdoor resort activities, and of course, VIP perks fit for royalty.

ST. REGIS DEER VALLEY

UTAH

Set amidst the picturesque Wasatch Mountains, this refined Park City resort offers convenient ski-in/ski-out access as well as its own private ski beach and ski valet. Even better, take advantage of the private Funicular to get to the top of the slopes without delay. After a full day in the snow, you still have more to look forward to — book a signature treatment at Remède Spa, take a dip in the hotel's heated split-level infinity-edge pool (the views are to die for), or dine on an exquisite meal followed by a dessert of roasted s'mores at the fire pit.

Private Perks: Upgrade upon arrival, complimentary daily breakfast for two, early check-in/late check-out, $100 resort credit to indulge further, and more.

BRUSH CREEK RANCH LODGE & SPA

WYOMING

Discover the authentic spirit of the West during a stay at an intimate, all-inclusive luxury ranch resort in Wyoming's famous Platte River Valley. Your rustic accommodations tie into the surrounding Rocky Mountain wilderness and create a haven to reconnect with nature and indulge in unlimited adventure. If you love the thrill of snow activities, you'll be hard-pressed to find a moment of boredom — enjoy horseback riding, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, ice fishing, ice skating, sledding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and tubing — all unfolding across 30,000 acres. Indoor indulgences range from a visit to The Trailhead Spa for relaxing treatments, The Saloon for swinging doors and jukeboxes, and The Spirit Vault for an elite barrel-tasting experience (accessible via a secret entrance).

Private Perks: Upgrade upon arrival, complimentary daily breakfast, early check-in/late check-out, $150 credit per person toward any premium activity, and more.

THE RESORT AT PAWS UP

MONTANA

From John Steinbeck to F. Scott Fitzgerald to even Abraham Lincoln himself, there is no shortage of those who have been quoted paying homage to the breathtaking state of Montana. At The Resort at Paws Up, surrounded by 37,000 acres of snow-covered land and icy rivers, you'll find yourself at the crossroads of incomparable luxury and unspoiled wilderness. The perfectly curated snow activities (like racing through the wilds on a tube towed by your own snowmobile chauffeur) will surely work up your appetite for the resort's authentically seasonal winter menu. In fact, you may even catch a glimpse of the executive chef foraging for rose hips or juniper berries in the snow.

Private Perks: Upgrade upon arrival, welcome bottle of wine, complimentary daily breakfast, round-trip private airport transfers, early check-in/late check-out, $300 activity credit, and more.

THE RITZ-CARLTON BACHELOR GULCH

COLORADO

Inspired by a traditional mountain lodge, this retreat offers seclusion amid towering pines and majestic landscapes with the unparalleled amenities you can expect from The Ritz-Carlton. Take advantage of convenient ski-in/ski-out access right into Beaver Creek Ski Resort before hitting up the spa for the signature Miner's Mineral mud wrap (it includes Colorado mine-sourced activated charcoal). Next, enjoy regional brews at Buffalos gastropub while the children enjoy ski classes and in-room camping as part of the Ritz Kids program.

Private Perks: Upgrade upon arrival, complimentary daily breakfast for two, $100 resort credit to treat yourself, early check-in/late check-out, and more.

MICHAEL SHANE STEPHENS
Curated Global Travel
An affiliate of Protravel
michael@curatedglobaltravel.com
310.691.7461
curatedglobaltravel.com

DISCOVER NEW WAYS TO CARE AROUND THE WORLD

DISCOVER NEW WAYS TO CARE AROUND THE WORLD

Over a decade ago, Crystal Cruises launched the “You Care, We Care” volunteerism program, which provides all guests and crew the opportunity to participate in a complimentary organized volunteer excursion on most sailings. All arrangements, including costs and transportation, are taken care of so that you can focus on getting directly involved in worthwhile causes. Some of this past year's experiences included feeding the elderly at Mercy Kitchen in Belize, participating in tree-planting conservation efforts to shelter the yellow-eyed penguins of Dunedin, New Zealand, and preparing food and creating ceramic artwork with the disabled at the Pio Monte della Misericordia Sorrento, Italy.

SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL: MORE THAN A BUZZ PHRASE

In light of Earth Day, I’ve been reflecting on ways we can all become more Earth-conscious travelers throughout the year. Fortunately, sustainability has become a driving force for the way resorts, restaurants and even airlines are improving their practices. Whether the beaches of Florida or the fine dining of Europe is calling your name, I’m sharing plenty of exciting travel ideas on my radar — and ways to elevate your trip sustainably.

FOUR SEASONS: A GATEWAY TO THE SUNSHINE STATE

Experience the best of the Sunshine State at Four Seasons in Orlando, Palm Beach, Surfside, Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Each of Florida's renowned Four Seasons hotels and resorts are committed to preserving and regenerating the environment and leaving a positive, enduring impact on our local communities.

Dine at Palm Beach’s flagship restaurant Florie’s, that focuses on nature-driven cuisine by using the freshest hand-picked ingredients including herbs from an on-site garden. In Orlando, experience the Tranquilo Golf Course at Four Seasons Golf and Sports Club Orlando which is certified by the National Audubon Society as a wildlife sanctuary. Lastly, when in Miami, Surfside or Fort Lauderdale, engage in educational tours at local, natural, cultural, historical or heritage sites to learn more about the local community.

Request Details  ⟶

SPARKING ECO-FRIENDLY TRAVEL

The future of planet-friendly travel has every opportunity to be bright, as hotels, airlines and destinations tap into new technologies and practices. Many studies suggest cost and knowledge are the main barriers that prevent people from making more responsible travel decisions. But with the right information and an allied advisor in your corner, choosing responsible travel decisions can actually enhance your next vacation.

REVIEW YOUR ITINERARY

When we work together, you’ll have a wealth of professional insights at your disposal. Ask me about luxury brands that share your commitment to sustainability and we can make adjustments based on your values.

EVALUATE YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT

You may find it interesting to see how well you’re traveling sustainably; try calculating your carbon footprint. I partner with Sustainable Travel International so you’ll have the option to make a 1% contribution that partially offsets your carbon emissions.

OPEN UP CONVERSATION

Talking about sustainable travel with friends, family and colleagues can be one of the biggest conduits to change. Share your favorite tips, eco-friendly resorts and best practices. And, you can lean on me as an ally to navigate the world sustainably.

Request Details  ⟶

SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD DESTINATIONS ACROSS EUROPE

Let’s be honest — sustainable ingredients just taste better. It’s why “farm-to-table” is no longer a niche concept, and why connoisseurs travel for eco-friendly dishes. Restaurants around Europe are sourcing sustainable seafood, and these restaurants take the concept to a level we can all appreciate.

APONIENTE

EL PUERTO DE SANTA MARÍA, SPAIN

Situated in a 19th century tidal mill inhabited by myriad species, Aponiente is a seafood lover’s paradise. Ángel León, fisherman-chef, serves two tasting menus showcasing the freshest, most sustainable ocean produce, including fiddler crab, albacore, plankton and goose barnacle.

THE PEARLS OF MONTE-CARLO

PORT DE FONTVIEILLE, MONACO

Tucked away at the end of the pier in Port de Fontvieille, “Les Perles de Monte-Carlo” is an oyster bar that offers seafood directly from its park. Launched by two certified biologists, this casual yet enticing restaurant has become a favorite sustainable hangout for locals and visitors alike.

KØDBYENS FISKEBAR

COPENHAGEN, DENMARK

Visitors rave about this restaurant’s fresh seafood, easy-drinking wines and delicious cocktails — all set in the rustic setting of Copenhagen’s Meatpacking District. Kødbyens Fiskebar boasts its commitment to local and sustainable products, as well as retailers who share the same values.

Request Details  ⟶

BOOK HUMAN FOR ECO-FRIENDLY RECOMMENDATIONS

When travel advisors guide your vacation, we seek out sustainable options, leveraging expertise and resources to identify resort properties that complement your values. I can recommend hotels and dining experiences that prioritize sustainability practices, such as reducing their carbon footprint, conserving water, supporting local communities and minimizing waste.

Additionally, many airlines are increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability and take steps to reduce their environmental impact. I’d love to hear about the causes and factors you care about most, so we can book your getaway with confidence.

Request Details  ⟶

MICHAEL SHANE STEPHENS
Curated Global Travel An affiliate of Protravel
michael@curatedglobaltravel.com
310.691.7461 curatedglobaltravel.com

CONTACT US NOW TO BOOK YOUR NEXT GETAWAY

The Mediterranean is Calling

The Mediterranean is Calling

I know I’m not the only one who loves exploring ancient Europe. There’s nothing like the thrill of climbing the Acropolis with a private guide or venturing out to an actual excavation site — and skipping the crowd.
I was speaking with a colleague of mine who had such a thrill recently. After a couple of history-packed days, she headed to islands like Mykonos and Ithaca to relax and recharge.

This conversation inspired me to share some of my favorite hotel and resort recommendations that are sure to pique your interest in this fabulous destination.

The land of olive trees, sea and sun, is calling your name.

SPACEFLIGHT REIMAGINED: A TRANSFORMATIVE LUXURY EXPERIENCE

SPACEFLIGHT REIMAGINED: A TRANSFORMATIVE LUXURY EXPERIENCE

Space Perspective is the world's first luxury spaceflight experience company, inviting more people than ever before to experience a thrilling new perspective that only space can provide. Propelled by a SpaceBallonTM, Spaceship Neptune travels at the gentle speed of 12 mph to the edge of space – without required training or g-forces. Your journey inside a pressurized capsule is designed to be ultra‑comfortable, complete with a meal and beverage of choice during the six‑hour flight.

FROM GALAPAGOS TO THE NORWEGIAN COAST, HURTIGRUTEN CAN TAKE YOU!

FROM GALAPAGOS TO THE NORWEGIAN COAST, HURTIGRUTEN CAN TAKE YOU!

Imagine the wild beauty of the Galápagos Islands, seeing iconic wildlife while kayaking, snorkeling and paddleboarding. Picture an immersive journey along the Norwegian coastline, taking in the history, stories and flavors at various carefully selected ports. Envision cruising through polar waters alongside experts, exploring Antarctica on land and sea. See Alaska differently through the Great Land’s nature, culture, and people. These are just some of the expeditions Hurtigruten offers, and with a legacy of 130 years guiding travelers to remote and pristine locations, they consistently deliver rich and memorable travels.