A Discovery of Portugal
Meet Our Award-Winning US Travel Specialists
These aren’t just planners—they’re insiders, trusted by the world’s most discerning travelers. From behind-the-scenes access and one-of-a-kind adventures to personalized, white-glove service, they set the gold standard for journeys that go beyond the ordinary. From a first-time safari crafted by an Africa aficionado to uncovering a Roman local’s favorite hidden gems, our specialists deliver travel at its most personal. Navigating a new chapter with little ones? Trust the expert who knows where to go—because, well, she’s done it. Tackling complex logistics? Explore Latin America’s wildest corners with the expertise of a specialist who makes multi-country travel feel effortless. And with our Scott Dunn Private Travel Managers, no request is off-limits when you know where to look —and have access to the world’s best-kept secrets. Bjorn - Conde Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist & Travel + Leisure A-List Award winner A Family Safari to Remember With over 35 years of experience exploring Africa—beginning with his own childhood adventures—Africa Team Lead Bjorn, brings unmatched expertise and passion to planning unforgettable journeys across the continent. “I ran a safari lodge and travel with my own young children to Africa, so I know the ins and outs of safari travel with little ones,” he shares. A first-time family safari isn’t just a trip—it’s a rite of passage. “Taking your children to Africa is truly lifechanging,” Bjorn shares. “It’s an incredibly educational experience—kids can see and feel the nature they’re learning about. Kids don’t just learn—they connect, explore, and grow in ways that stay with them for life.” As luxury travel evolves, Bjorn is seeing a clear shift in what families are looking for. “Our guests are moving away from chasing the ‘best’ game-viewing spots and focusing instead on unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences with fewer crowds,” he explains. “I’ve found that time is increasingly vital to our guests, leading to an increase in demand for private charters and reserves, as well as specialist guides, to maximize every moment away,” he says. This trend is reflected in the rising popularity of multi-generational trips, where travelers are seeking private houses or villas that offer both flexibility and intimacy. “With no other guests around, the experience feels personalized, relaxed and allows everyone to stay together in one special place.” One standout is Singita Milele, opened to the public just last year. “It’s the perfect place for families of all ages to reconnect,” says Bjorn. “This exclusive-use villa offers front-row access to fantastic game viewing in one of the very few private reserves in Tanzania, allowing for a safari with less crowds. With five expansive suites, a dedicated full staff, and private game vehicles to explore the wilderness, it’s exactly the kind of elevated, one-of-a-kind experience our travelers are seeking.” Livia - Conde Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist & Travel + Leisure A-List Award winner La Dolce Vita – Like a Local Raised in Rome and shaped by a lifetime of firsthand expertise, Livia brings an insider’s edge to every journey she designs. As Europe Team Lead, she’s passionate about helping travelers take their time and experience the everyday magic that locals often take for granted. Whether it’s guiding guests on how to experience Rome’s iconic sites away from the crowds during the 2025 Jubilee Year or introducing them to the charm of lesser-known neighborhoods like Monti and Testaccio, her mission is simple: to inspire guests to slow down and live like the locals do — unhurried and authentic. At Scott Dunn, this level of firsthand expertise is more than a value—it’s a promise. Every itinerary is shaped by lived experience and crafted by experts in-the-know, revealing a side of destinations that many travelers never see. For today’s travelers, it’s no longer just about ticking off classic sights, but embracing one-of-a-kind adventures. For some, it’s a charming wine and culinary retreat in the heart of Piemonte. For others, it’s a multi-day ski safari through the Dolomites—gliding from hut to hut with a private guide, savoring regional cuisine, and soaking in breathtaking alpine scenery. Livia’s expertise also elevates visits to iconic cities with unique pairings—from the idyllic island of Ischia to the vineyards and hilltop towns of Tuscany or the relaxed pace of life in Puglia. As summer temperatures climb across Southern Europe, Livia is seeing collective desire for ‘coolcations’ continue, particularly in Switzerland. “It’s the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors without overheating—think mountain biking, scenic hikes and glamorous hotels in Zermatt or St. Moritz, complete with spas and outdoor pools,” she shares. Rachael – Conde Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist & Travel + Leisure A-List Award winner Starting a Lifetime of Travel with Your Little Ones Senior Travel Specialist, Rachael, has been collecting memories (and passport stamps!) for her entire adult life, with visits to every continent and more than 50 countries. She has hiked the W Trek in Patagonia, dived among WWII wrecks in the Philippines and gone dog-sledding under the Northern Lights in Norway, but transitioning to life with a little one meant learning to navigate a new norm. With decades of experience crafting thoughtful adventures for families—and with nine countries already under her toddler's belt—Rachael knows just how to help new parents embrace their next chapter. Traveling with a toddler might seem daunting at first, but for Rachael, it’s been a transformative experience that has enriched the whole family’s adventures. “It opens up opportunities to try new things and engage with the world in a way that everyday life doesn’t.” As her son grows, she’s seen how travel nurtures confidence and independence. “He packs his own backpack, insists on scanning his own ticket, and expertly wheels his carry-on through the terminal—escalators and all!” Rachael’s top tip? Look for family-friendly properties that offer more than just the basics. “We still want gorgeous hotels with top service, but it’s also important that there are amenities that suit a young family—from kids clubs to a robe and slippers for the little one (is there anything cuter?).” One of her favorites is São Lourenço do Barrocal. “The staff goes above and beyond— donkey cart rides, mountain bikes with a baby seat and baking cookies with the chef. During our wine tasting, they even had milk and juice at the ready.” “Before traveling as a family, I’d wing it. Now, I know a transfer with a car seat will be waiting for us, and I don’t have to worry about a thing,” she says. “It’s true that once you’ve traveled with Scott Dunn, it’s impossible to go back—but that’s even more true when you have small children to consider.” Simon - Conde Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist Mastering Wildlife & Adventure in Latin America Simon’s passion for nature and wildlife forms the core of his expert planning throughout Latin America, equipped with nearly a decade of industry expertise. “My joy lies in guiding travelers to remote biodiversity hotspots, where they encounter elusive species and learn about vital conservation efforts as part of a truly unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.” The complexity of a multi-destination Latin American journey demands this level of knowledge and care. “I’ve been fortunate to travel extensively across Latin America, often crafting journeys that seamlessly combine multiple countries with complex logistical arrangements. This experience enables me to confidently design itineraries unrestricted by borders or regions, offering access to niche destinations that less specialized planners may not have the confidence or experience to offer.” From altitude effects to flight delays and extreme weather shifts, Simon anticipates the potential challenges, ensuring that each trip not only meets, but exceeds expectations. As weather patterns grow more unpredictable, Simon has observed that travelers are becoming more open to exploring out of season. “Guests are prioritizing unique experiences over perfect weather, which is wonderful to see.” That could mean visiting Costa Rica during the ‘green’ season to witness its lush vegetation in its brightest bloom, traveling to Bolivia during the rains for the breathtaking mirror-like reflections on the salt flats or exploring Brazil’s Pantanal when the wetlands are at their highest flood levels, providing extraordinary opportunities for landscape photography. When it comes to iconic destinations, Simon encourages early planning to make the most of what’s available—especially in bucket-list regions like Patagonia. “Everyone’s ‘perfect fit’ is different. Booking early ensures you place yourself where is best for you without having to compromise.” Jackie - Conde Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist The Power of Limitless Travel Travel is not just a destination; it’s an experience that should speak to the soul. Jackie, Scott Dunn Private Travel Manager, has built her reputation by delivering lifelong relationships and curating extraordinary experiences for her exclusive group of guests. "My guests are curious, adventurous, and seasoned travelers who appreciate insider expertise and meticulous attention to detail," Jackie explains. "They seek the rare, the unexpected, and the transformative." Her philosophy is simple: no detail is too small, and no request too large. Her guests not only rely on her for unparalleled expertise, but for access to experiences that are inaccessible to the general public. "I leave no stone unturned to ensure my guests have the most immersive experiences possible." Take, for example, a family adventure Jackie curated in Morocco, where keeping the kids engaged wasn’t a chore, but an opportunity to create something truly magical. Each day, the family uncovered new clues and solved puzzles that led them to the next exciting part of their journey. The grand finale? Discovering hidden treasure, buried deep in the Saharan sands. "This is the value of a knowledgeable travel specialist," says Jackie. "I take the time to understand my guests and craft experiences that they don’t even know to ask for. All that’s left for them to do is enjoy!" Looking ahead, Jackie has her finger on the pulse of what’s hot in the world of travel. "Luxury train and cruise travel will boom in 2025 and beyond," she predicts. "We’re seeing an increasing demand for lavish train journeys like the Belmond Orient Express from Istanbul to Paris, and cruises on super-luxurious yachts like those from Ritz-Carlton and the soon-to-debut Four Seasons Yachts." In the post-Covid era, travelers are eager to explore further and socialize more. “This theme is apparent in the growing trend of ‘eventourism,’ pairing leisure travel with the buzz of global events, from anticipated concert tours to the F1 in Japan or the Monaco Grand Prix,” Jackie shares. Julie - Conde Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist A Life in Motion: From Cycling Trails to Private Yachts Scott Dunn Private Travel Manager, Julie, has called a plane seat her second home for as long as she can remember. With years working in Italy as a luxury cycling and hiking guide, her expertise lies in in curating active, adventure-filled experiences that you can’t find in a guidebook. That foundation has shaped Julie’s exceptional ability to craft ultra-luxurious journeys rooted in discovery. Whether planning stays at remote mountain lodges or organizing lavish private yacht charters, she blends meticulous logistics and exclusive insider access to create once-in-a-lifetime experiences that captivate even the most discerning travelers. Her curated adventures are far from ordinary—think behind-the-scenes access with an archaeologist in Siem Reap or horseback riding alongside gauchos through the dramatic landscapes of Chile. Julie’s unwavering, relationship-driven approach is what truly sets her apart. She doesn’t just design one-off itineraries—she builds lasting connections with her guests. A cornerstone of her service is Travel Mapping, a long-term strategy that extends well beyond a single trip. Julie curates a personalized calendar, carefully attuned to her clients' most meaningful milestones ahead, from anniversaries and birthdays to family reunions and bucket list events. “Destinations like Japan, Patagonia or Antarctica require long lead times to secure the best guides and properties,” she explains. “By listening closely to my guests' evolving interests, I help them plan ahead where it counts.” “We’re not just planning a vacation—we’re creating a timeline of moments that guests will treasure for a lifetime.” Ready to experience the world like never before? Plan your trip with one of our award-winning specialists to unlock extraordinary experiences only insiders can offer—seamless, personalized, and unforgettable.
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Which Costa Navarino resort is best for you?
Costa Navarino is home to some incredible luxury resorts. With its beautiful beaches, authentic Greek experiences, and Ionian Sea views, this gorgeous stretch of coastline in the southern Peloponnese is one of our top destinations in the Mediterranean. One of the things our team enjoys most about Costa Navarino as a destination is its top selection of resorts that cater to different travel styles. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort stay, a romantic holiday, an active break or a unique Mediterranean escape for the family, Costa Navarino offers it all. Another great feature that Costa Navarino prides itself on is being sustainably driven as a destination. W Costa Navarino, The Westin Resort Costa Navarino and The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort, part of Marriott’s portfolio of brands, are three luxurious resorts in Costa Navarino our Travel Specialists have visited frequently and enjoy enormously. To help narrow down the perfect Costa Navarino resort for you, we’ve matched each resort with different travel styles, from couples and families to solo travellers. Plus, our experts share their insider insights on making the most of a holiday there.
The Five Emotions of Family Travel
Why do we take young kids on big adventures? It’s the joy of seeing your children light up with curiosity, the warmth of shared laughter, the awe of stepping into the unknown and the sense of accomplishment when you tackle challenges together. And long after you return home, the nostalgia of those cherished moments becomes part of your family lore. The Electric Rush of Excitement Can you recall the first time you saw pure wonder in your child’s eyes while travelling? Maybe it was their first glimpse of an elephant on safari or their victorious cheer after zip-lining through a lush forest. As a family, these moments take on even more meaning. Seeing your children marvel at new landscapes or dive headfirst into an adventure doesn’t just inspire them—it bonds you. Whether trekking through ancient ruins, snorkelling among colourful reefs or floating in a hot air balloon, every thrilling experience becomes a story you’ll recount for years to come. Curiosity as a Compass Children are wired to ask questions, and few things fuel their curiosity quite like travel. Every destination opens doors to new discoveries, from sampling handmade pasta in Italy and watching orangutans swing through Borneo’s rainforests to learning local crafts from a friendly artisan in Morocco. And at Scott Dunn Explorers Kids Clubs, the extensive activity programme is designed to spark curiosity, whether it’s through a visit to a Cretan olive farm or cycling to a nearby lake. Suddenly, the world becomes their classroom. These experiences don’t just entertain; they expand their minds and foster empathy, offering a broader perspective that sticks with them well beyond the trip. Playfulness in the Moment Travel has a way of letting everyone—parents included—rediscover their playful side. Whether it’s racing to build the tallest sandcastle, flying down a snowy slope, or giggling uncontrollably while navigating a local market, these moments of light-hearted fun are priceless. Scott Dunn Explorers Kids Clubs enable little explorers to get truly stuck into playtime. Through activities ranging from sports to crafts and cooking to cultural visits, kids are invited to embrace play every moment of the day. Playfulness is often where the best memories live, and when everyone is free to let loose, the bond between family members deepens most joyfully. A Sense of Accomplishment As a family, conquering challenges becomes part of your shared story. Hiking up to a stunning vista, mastering a new skill like paddleboarding, or navigating a bustling foreign city can be daunting—but together, these experiences build resilience and pride. The shared high-fives and “we did it!” moments remind everyone that challenges are easier to face as a team. For kids who love sport, Scott Dunn Explorers provides the opportunity to have sporting lessons with real pros, teaching them skills and techniques for tennis, golf or football that they can bring home to impress their friends. Connection on a Deeper Level The daily grind has a way of pulling us in different directions. Travel is the antidote. When you’re away from your routine and the ever-present distractions of work and screens, you’re left with each other. Maybe you’re sharing whispered stories under a canopy of stars, belly-laughing over a travel mishap, or simply soaking in the stillness of a shared sunset; travel carves out space for moments that bring you closer. Even the smallest moments—a sibling helping another up a rocky trail or a spontaneous family dance-off—help forge the strongest of connections. And in a wider sense, travel helps children engage meaningfully with different cultures, connecting them with the world around them. Let Us Show You Travel You Feel Travel isn’t just something you do; it’s something you feel. The joy of exploring new places, the laughter shared over unfamiliar foods, the pride in trying something daring together—all of these emotions create a lasting impact. So, gather your crew and pack your sense of wonder. Travel can be your playground, your teacher and your inspiration. The best family adventures are the ones that bring you closer, ignite your imagination and give you a treasure chest of memories to revisit for years to come. Interested? Let us plan you a trip that inspires awe, connection and curiosity—one unforgettable emotion at a time.
Scott Dunn x Gray Malin
When was your first trip to Italy and how did it capture your attention? I began shooting my La Dolce Vita series in Italy 6 years ago. I was captivated by the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast and Positano as well as the vibrant colors of the umbrellas and sunbathers along the beaches. Gray's Positano Beach Vista Gray's Positano Beach Vista What is it about the Amalfi Coast that you love? There are so many things to love about the Amalfi Coast since it is made up of tons of diverse areas. The colorful, retro umbrellas that dot the beaches are an iconic sight, but I’m also drawn to the laid-back lifestyle (and food) embraced by visitors and locals. From the sweeping views at the top of Ravello to the colorful boats in Praiano, I love looking out at the sparkling blue waters of the sea. Gray's Il San Pietro Positano Gray's Praia Beach With overtourism currently a hot topic, what’s your top tip for escaping the crowds on the ever-popular Amalfi Coast? When I feel like I need a break from all the tourists, one of my go-to plans is to charter a boat with a captain for the day. It’s nice to get off the beach and have some quiet time, but doing this also lets you have the unique perspective of looking back at the coast from the water. It’s so special. If you want to avoid a lot of other visitors altogether, I’d recommend visiting in May or September/October when the weather is still beautiful but there are not as many crowds. Gray sailing in Capri Gray's La Fontelina Loungers Where else in Italy do you highly recommend and is there anywhere you haven’t been? Aside from the Amalfi Coast, I absolutely love Lake Como and Puglia. They offer very different Italian experiences but are equally as spectacular in their own ways. Although I’ve been to Sicily before, I feel like there is so much more for me to explore there. Sardinia seems to be on the rise in the Italian travel scene and I’d love to get to visit there one day as well. I also would like to visit the island of Ischia one day. Alberobello, Puglia Lake Como, Italy Looking beyond Italy, what makes your ideal destination for a vacation? Whenever I travel, I like to make sure there is a good mix of adventure and relaxation. I also look for naturally beautiful landscapes that can provide inspiration for my work. Lastly, it’s not a real vacation if you don’t get to experience amazing local food, right? Restaurant at La Fontelina Gray exploring the Amalfi Coast Do you have a favorite hotel? In Los Angeles, I love The Beverly Hills Hotel. It was the backdrop to my series Gray Malin at The Beverly Hills Hotel and it’s just so beautiful. Palm Springs is a frequent destination for me since it’s easy to get to from LA and when I go there I love staying at The Parker Palm Springs. In Lake Como, I love the Grand Hotel Tremezzo. It’s such a stunning property with amazing views of the beauty of Lake Como. The Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc is one of the most stunning hotels I’ve ever been to and is a must if you ever find yourself in the South of France. Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como How do you get under the skin of a destination? Whenever I’m heading to a new destination, I always love to get recommendations from friends and family who have visited before. This is the easiest way to get suggestions that will be tailored to your interests and will save you some effort to go beyond the usual tourist attractions. It’s also a great idea to hire a local guide for a day or two. They can show you around and you also get to ask them any questions that may pop up. Guides usually have the best restaurant recommendations too. Gray enjoying the Amalfi Coast Gray's Capri Aside from your camera, what’s always packed in your suitcase? When I pack, I try to travel as lightly as possible. That means making sure my wardrobe is versatile. I try to always pack at least one or two dress shirts that can be mixed and matched with shorts or pants to create multiple different outfits. I also always try to bring versatile, but comfortable shoes like loafers or Sperrys that can be dressed up or down. Gray Sailing the Amalfi Coast Gray Malin Why collaborate with Scott Dunn? I love the Scott Dunn brand because they satisfy the category of attainable luxury when it comes to travel. They bring some of the most incredible travel experiences to their clients and make the entire travel process as simple as possible. It truly feels like a natural connection between our two brands. Gray's Atrani, Amalfi Coast Gray's Nerano Beach Amalfi Coast Gray Malin is an internationally renowned fine art photographer whose work combines the spirit of travel, adventure, luxury, and artistry. He has shot collections around the world in locations as remote as Antarctica, Namibia, and Bhutan, while also receiving commercial recognition for inventive aerial beach, ski, and park scenes of the world’s most iconic destinations. Forging his art into a larger lifestyle brand with his brand philosophy to Make Every Day a Getaway™, Gray’s photography has expanded into a line of luxury products for home and travel. Speak to one of our Europe Travel Specialists today.
Plain Sailing in Croatia
Europe expert, Milly, discovers the highlights of the Adriatic coastline, combining cultural delights with island hopping on the ultimate Croatian itinerary. Introducing yourself to the delights of this European gem by spending three or four nights in Split is the perfect way to begin your Croatian adventure. Right in the heart of the city, the Judita Palace is a home-away-from-home offering lovely, spacious rooms, overlooking the historic Peristil square. The hotel is ideally located to get to grips with the city, starting with a private guided tour of Diocletian’s Palace. Learn the history of the Emperor Diocletian, whilst exploring the amazing palace grounds for an insight into how the city of Split came to be. Following the tour, spend an afternoon wine tasting at Paradox bar, enjoying delicious local wines, cheeses and local fig jam. Views from Judita Palace Diocletian's Palace Only an hour and a half north of Split lies the city of Šibenik, home to one of the best restaurants in the country, Pelegrini, where you can dine on world-class cuisine. From here, you can explore nearby Krka National Park and its impressive waterfalls, by hiking or cycling around the park. There are some beautiful spots to cool off and enjoy a refreshing swim with amazing views of the falls cascading overhead. Head back to the foodie paradise of Split in the evening to try out one of its many great restaurants. Krka National Park Split Another gastro highlight for me was a cookery class in Trogir, hosted by the lovely Tatjana. Upon arriving, you head straight to a local market to source all the ingredients needed for the lesson. Explore the old town of Trogir, located on a small island connected to the mainland, learning about its history and admiring its beautiful and somewhat unusual church. From here, you will return to Tatjana’s house to begin preparing your feast. Whilst relaxed, it is a hands on experience letting you get stuck in gutting fish, preparing meat, and chopping the fresh haul of vegetables from the market. After cooking everything, you can sit down and eat a delicious meal with the whole family, in the comfort of their home. They are such a welcoming family, so full of life that you cannot help but leave with a big smile on your face, having experienced so much more than just learning to cook a variety of dishes. I am a real foodie, so this was a true highlight on my trip! Trogir's Markets Tatjana's Cookery Class Having explored beautiful Split, it was time to board my home for the week, a yacht moored in the Agana Marina. These catamarans are comfortable, spacious and just ideal for a family of a group of couples. With ample sunbathing space, dining options inside and on deck and en-suite bathrooms; this is yachting in luxury. The cabins are relatively small, however more than comfortable enough for couples or siblings sharing and with plenty of storage space, the yachts are well equipped for groups. Agana Marina Sailing the Adriatic coastline The route is quite flexible depending on your preferences, however I would definitely recommend stopping at Milna on Brac and Stari Grad on Hvar. With stand up paddle boards, double kayaks, snorkelling equipment and fishing rods on board, there is plenty to keep all passengers entertained. Stopping in secluded bays for a spot of swimming, before tucking into a delicious light lunch prepared by your chef accompanied by a glass of local Croatian wine makes for total relaxation. Typically you would spend at least three out of seven nights in a marina and the others on a mooring buoy. This way you can enjoy the local cuisine in restaurants on dry land as well as those cooked by your on-board chef. Water sports on board Views of the mainland Spending a few days sailing across the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic is the perfect end to a Croatian adventure. This fantastic itinerary easily combines culture, relaxation and activities, both on land and in the water. Sailing the coast of Croatia works so well as many of its islands are within sailing distance of each other, yet each has its own charm and personality just waiting to be discovered.
California Dreaming
Growing up, my favourite family holidays were our U.S road trips. I have vivid memories of being completely awestruck by the size of the cars and the giant highways, as well as the enormous portions and endless choice of M&Ms available at service stations en route. However, what truly stuck in my mind was the diversity and vastness of the landscapes which undoubtedly kindled my love of geography and inspired my career in travel. I was therefore extremely excited to return to the United States and introduce my husband to a part of the world I have so many fond memories of, the Golden State of California. We flew directly into San Francisco, my favourite North American city. From my last visit, as a 12 year old, I could remember the striking beauty of the Golden Gate Bridge, the cacophony of sea lions on Pier 39, tucking into clam chowder in a sourdough roll and the colourful Painted Ladies. This time around, I discovered the great boutiques of Fillmore Street in picturesque Pacific Heights, fantastic dining in the neighbourhood of Western Addition and the joy of catching a tram in order to avoid the notoriously steep hills of the city (it really is worth the wait!). Painted Ladies Golden Gate Bridge Sea Lions on Pier 39 From here, we headed to Napa Valley. As a child, I was more fascinated by the Old Faithful Geyser of California than the world renowned wine and delicious food which was certainly top of the agenda this time! Unlike many other wine regions, where you can turn up and enjoy free tastings, in Napa Valley it’s highly recommended to book in advance visiting up to four vineyards per day and prices vary significantly depending on the style of vineyard. If you’re not staying at Auberge du Soleil, it is well worth visiting for lunch on their terrace as it boasts spectacular views of the valley, serves superb food and is the perfect place to relax in the sunshine. Frog's Leap Winery Napa Valley We then headed to one of the country’s first national parks, the awe inspiring Yosemite, created in 1890. For those with a passion for hiking, photography, or just being in the great outdoors enjoying the fresh air, Yosemite will not disappoint. For an amazing view of the iconic Yellowstone Valley head up to ‘Tunnel View’ to be wowed by the sheer scale of the truncated spurs and hanging valleys (the geographer within me was in her element!). Both Redwoods and Tenaya Lodge properties are well located for access into the National Park. Yosemite Yosemite National Park Yosemite We then headed back towards the coast in search of adorable sea otters and seals which I recalled being abundant around Monterey, and we were in luck! The aquarium here is considered to be one of the best in the world, but even just walking along the stretch of coastline towards the wharf you’re likely to see (and hear) seals basking in the sunshine on rocks close to the shore. Keep your eyes peeled and binoculars at the ready for a lucky sighting of sea otters too. Just 10 minutes from Monterey is the chocolate-box coastal town of Carmel- By- The- Sea, with boutique stores and independent restaurants lining the hillside leading down to the soft sand and dog friendly beaches. For golf lovers, Pebble Beach is located at the end of Carmel beach and boasts spectacular views out to sea, or for those who prefer to be surrounded by fields and undulating countryside, Bernadus Lodge and Carmel Valley Ranch are great choices. Carmel Carmel Beach Monterey From here you can usually hug the Big Sur coast towards LA along the infamous California State Route 1, but due to storms earlier in the year it was sadly closed in a number of places. At the time of writing, you could get as far south as the frequently photographed Bixby Bridge, but diversions then take you inland before the route re-joins the coast near Morro Bay, where the Anderson Inn is ideally located for a pit stop to break up the journey. Our next stop along the coast was Santa Barbara, where the historic Spanish influence is noticeable in the local architecture and has been preserved with the Presidio. We were hit by coastal fogs in the morning and late afternoon, and therefore thankful to be staying at the beautiful Belmond El Encanto. Perched high above the clouds, overlooking the city and coast, it was the ideal spot to soak up some sunshine by the pool with a book and glass of local wine in hand – perfect! Belmond El Encanto Santa Barbara Presidio Route 1 For those whose holidays aren’t complete without a bit of beach time, then Santa Monica and Laguna Beach are great choices near Los Angeles. Otherwise, Beverly Hills and West Hollywood would be my personal recommendation. The Beverly Hills Hotel for instance is situated on Sunset Boulevard, ideally located to peruse all the shops Rodeo Drive has to offer. Further along the boulevard in West Hollywood is The London which is close to great restaurants, the boutique shops of Melrose Place, and is that bit further east of the city for easy access to Universal Studios (with the recently opened Wizarding World of Harry Potter), the iconic Hollywood Sign, and Staples Centre for those interested in watching the local LA Clippers basketball team. A very American end to a great America trip! Rodeo Drive Universal Studios Hollywood Staples Centre
Finding the best Southern Africa Safari for you
Depending on what you’re looking for in terms of game viewing, accommodations and experiences this will help you determine which safari experience is ideal for you. South Africa South Africa, specifically the Kruger region is great for first time safari goers looking to combine their travels with a visit to Cape Town, the Winelands, and explorations of the southern coast. In terms of game, Kruger is highly likely to deliver the Big Five, although sightings can never be guaranteed. The camps here are focused on bigger game and may not be ideal for those seeking to focus on birds or learn more about smaller mammals, reptiles, vegetation, and surrounding ecosystems. It is important to note that Madikwe and private reserves on the Eastern Cape offer malaria-free safaris, ideal for families and honeymooners looking to avoid taking anti-malarial medication. Kruger National Park lion cubs Elephant on game drive in South Africa Leopard in South Africa The Camps and lodges in South Africa will deliver on luxury, providing all the facilities, amenities and comforts of 5-star resorts – often equipped with gyms, swimming pools, spas, Wi-Fi, private plunge pools and lounge areas, private dinners, etc. They focus on providing intimate experiences for each party, emphasizing privacy during meal times over communal dining. River Lodge firepit lounge Fish Eagle Villa pool and fire deck For those seeking an intimate getaway where you will be pampered in full luxury and likely see the Big Five, South Africa is a great safari choice! Adding a relaxing beach stay in Seychelles, Mauritius, and Mozambique are the perfect option for post-South African safaris. Seychelles Mauritius Botswana Botswana offers a more remote, unspoiled experience than its Southern Africa counterparts by limiting the number of tourists allowed in the parks. This definitely adds to the country’s exclusivity. The emphasis is less on the Big Five and premiere luxury and more about general game, animal interactions, and uncommon sightings (although the region is home to Big Five with rhino sightings rather scarce). In Botswana you will see fewer lodge vehicles at each sighting and spend more time learning about the migratory and breading patterns of animals. For those looking to see elephants, Botswana will deliver with over 150,000 elephants, the largest concentration in the continent! Anna on game drive in Botswana Elephants in Moremi National Park - Botswana Cheetah in Botswana However, each region presents a differing experience: The Makgadikgadi Pans offer true unspoiled landscapes with awe-inspiring sunsets, incredible night skies, walks with local bushmen, migratory zebras and wildebeest, meerkat interactions, lions, and more. Meerkat on the pans Makgadikgadi Pans ATV stargazing Zebra on the Makgadikgadi Pans Meanwhile, the Okavango Delta offers both game drives and water activities, for certain months of the year, allowing guests to explore the landscape via vehicle, on foot, in a mokoro (traditional African canoe) or on a boat cruise. These water activities can offer even closer encounters with animals, including parades of elephants passing beside you through the channel. Anna on a boat trip down the delta Elephant in the Okavango Delta Mokoro rides down the Okavango Delta The Linyanti region provides guests a similar experience in that both water and land activities are offered but here animals flock to limited water sources, often making for exciting mammal encounters. A game drive from in the Linyanti Horseback riding in Botswana Boat safari in Botswana Some camps in Botswana offer Wi-Fi, swimming pools and spas, although this will not be the norm for the region. Dining will be more focused on communal dinners with the option for private, but you may be surprised by how much you enjoy dining at the hosted table! Here you will find staff, guides, and management with immense passion for their country and conservation of the area. Botswana is great for those seeking a more immersive safari experience emphasizing unspoiled landscapes and wildlife conservation. Nxbega camp Sandibe guest area Zambia Zambia, specifically Livingstone (home to Victoria Falls), the Lower Zambezi, and the Luangwa Valley, are all great for experienced safari goers who are looking to build on their previous safari experience or for first-timers looking for a raw and truly wild experience! Giraffe in Zambia Elephant in Zambia Zambia is home to the walking safari and offers a more rustic, explorative safari experience, especially in camps along the Luangwa River. Due to the diversity of activities in the region, Zambia is a great destination for families with teenagers. Walking safari in Zambia Elephant viewing Zambia Tiger fishing in Zambia Livingstone is a fantastic location to start or end your safari offering numerous activities related to Victoria Falls, in addition to standard game drives, such as helicopter rides, microlight flights, bungee jumping, rhino tracking, rafting, boat cruises, and so much more. Lodges in this area often equipped with swimming pools, gyms, Wi-Fi, private dining, and embrace the full luxuries of a 5-star resort. Victoria Falls Rafting down the falls Helicopter flights over Falls The Lower Zambezi offers a great combination of land and water activities, encouraging guests to try canoeing, tiger fishing, and sunset cruises along the river in addition to the usual game drives and walks. Anna fishing in Zambia boat lioness silhouette sunset canoeing Zambia Finally, South Luangwa focuses on the rustic, ‘back to the bush’ experience of walking safaris and hide viewing with guests feeling fully immersed in their surroundings. It is important to note that South Luangwa is incredibly well known for its thriving lion and leopard populations, so for those who love big cats there is arguably no better place! South Luangwa National Park Leopard in a tree While some camps in Lower Zambezi and Luangwa will have swimming pools and Wi-Fi (although it is often intermittent), the majority embrace a ‘back to the bush’ style of rustic luxury and minimal environmental impact. Dining and experiences will emphasize “en famille,” allowing guests to share the excitements of the day and get to know their fellow travellers. Kigelia House Kigelia House dining Mfuwe Lodge Zambia is a great experience for those looking to disconnect while on safari, those who are not afraid of a more immersive experience of wildlife wondering into camp, and adventurous travellers looking to explore walking safaris, hide viewing, canoeing, fishing, river cruises, and so much more! Elephant Zambia Walking Safari Zambia Leopard Zambia This is a guide to help match your experience desires to the appropriate area, but you cannot go wrong with a safari to any one of the above destinations and our specialists would be more than happy to help you choose the perfect safari!
