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.
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.
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
Spirituality in the Mountains
Spirituality has been in the mountains of Ladakh since time began – Bon religion; worshiping nature; and Buddhism influenced from India and Tibet. The landscape is peppered with mementos of all of these beliefs: Latos, piles of stones, juniper bushes and goat horns as shrines to the spirits of rock, water and air; white-washed chortens or stupas mirror the snow-capped mountains; prayer flags carry worship on the winds; and Mani Walls at the gateway to villages have hundreds of carved stones spreading positive messages of love amd compassion ‘Om mani padme hum’ (Hail the jewel in the lotus). What a welcome! Mani Stone Latos - juniper! Mani Wall All mountain beliefs can blend to fantastical effect especially in the case of Oracles, mediums who can harness a powerful healing spirit. Lamas consult with their Oracle for advice and local people visit, suffering from ailments that modern medicine has failed to cure, or with questions about their future. I visited an Oracle during my recent travels through Ladakh. The Oracle was being consulted by a room full of patients so I was able to watch proceedings and my Ladakhi guide, Dhammo explained the nuances, although the drama was easy to follow! The medium called upon the Oracle with chanting, snorting and shrill cries, while rhythmically twisting a Dumroo, a hand drum with two swinging beads. She then bandaged her head covering her eyes and mouth before entering a trance. The Oracle set upon alleviating each person of their troubles, with hands on heads, singing to transfer positivity and displace whatever evil spirit loitered within to ail the patient. When questions were asked the Oracle responded by throwing grains of barley into the air and counting the number that landed on the drum of the Dumroo to then answer. The energy and expectation in the room was palpable, and while seeming both fascinating and improbable to cynical western minds, there’s no denying it’s worth to Ladakh’s community. It is even believed that an Oracle advised the Dali Lama’s timely escape from Tibet in 1959, so to preserve Buddhism. Sara with the monks Prayer flags Prayer flags Sara on Shey palace summit In this land of the Lama it is also possible to meet with a monk to better understand Buddhism, attend morning prayer with the monks at Thiksey Monastery and visit a nunnery. Ladakh is a remarkable place, it is cut off from the rest of the world by snow for much of the year, so visit between June-August when the climate is sunny and warm in the day and cool in the evening. Time it right for the highlight of Hemis Festival, where monks perform an elaborate masked dance to much drumming and music. Ultimate Travelling Camp view Surrounding view The accommodation choice is wonderfully comfortable also, the glorious Shakti Village Houses give an immersive, authentic experience. Traditional houses with 2-3 bedrooms converted from the upper level rooms opening out on the sun terrace are ‘spruced up’ with sprung mattresses, thick duvets, a woodburner to ensure you’re warm during cool nights and en-suite shower rooms. The village house is taken exclusively and comes with a private chef and an attentive staff giving a truly personal service. It’s restful to observe the serene pace of Ladakhi life from a shaded, pillowed lounge on the village house’s rooftop. Lunch at a Shakti Village House There is also the uber luxurious Chamba Camp, by The Ultimate Travelling Camp in the grounds of Thiksey Monastery. It is a real oasis of calm set in around various water bodies and gardens which attracts butterflies and birdlife, and all tents come with a valet and spectacular views of the monastery.
Our Pick of the World’s 50 Best Hotels
On Tuesday 19th September, the inaugural list of the World’s 50 Best Hotels was announced in a ceremony at London's Guildhall. An overwhelming number of the winners sit within our curated collection of hotels across the world, so our Travel Specialists decided to narrow down their top 10 favourite properties. Read on to find out why these hotels have topped our list of the “best of the best”. Plus, get some insider tips from our Travel Specialists who have experienced these properties first-hand.
Scott Dunn Donates to Moroccan NGO Education For All
Q&A with a Seasoned Safari Goer
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, is there any country in particular where you have felt most comfortable? As a traveller, I’ve always felt safe and welcomed and have found that safari outfitters are welcoming to all people. In terms of policies, South Africa is the most accepting for LGBTQ+ individuals including legal same-sex marriage. Cape Town has a thriving LGBTQ+ scene. Unfortunately, many African destinations have policies that are unwelcoming to the LGBTQ+ community and it’s important to acknowledge the reality for LGBTQ+ people that live in these countries. Travelling throughout the continent, I’ve always felt incredibly welcomed by the people of each country I’ve been fortunate enough to visit. What would you say to someone in the LGBTQ+ community who is considering going on safari but has safety concerns? It’s a personal decision to decide if one is willing to travel to a destination with policies and human rights records that they don’t agree with. However, in terms of safety, Africa has always felt like an extremely safe destination to me and one that I feel extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to travel. While it’s important to be aware of local laws, I’ve never felt uncomfortable or unsafe. One of the best parts about travelling in Africa is getting deep into nature and there’s nowhere else I feel safer. Is there anything you would never go on safari without? Binoculars, I hate being the one person in the jeep that can’t see what everyone else is excited about. While you’ll be amazed how close you can get to wildlife, some of the best sights require the help of a good pair of binoculars.
Luxury Caribbean Cruise Review
Birds of the Galapagos Islands
