Ask the Experts
Plan ahead with insider tips from our ludicrously well-traveled team.
What are some of the key events in 2026 and 2027 that I should start planning for?
Jules Maury, Head of Scott Dunn Private
“There’s no shortage of sporting events in the calendar: Mexico, the USA and Canada are hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup; the iconic Tour de France kicks off in Barcelona for the first time ever in 2026; the Men’s Rugby World Cup heads to Australia in 2027; and the 2027 Cricket World Cup will be played in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. We’re already crafting some epic journeys and securing special access for our sport-fanatic members – but it’s essential to start planning well in advance. 2027 also marks NASA’s Artemis III mission: attempting the first human lunar landing since Apollo 17 in 1972. We can’t promise to take you to the moon just yet, but we certainly can create some out-of-this-world travel experiences…”
Julie Durso, Scott Dunn Private USA
“Golf enthusiasts, take note: the 2027 Ryder Cup will be hosted at Ireland’s Adare Manor in September, which also happens to be a beautiful time to visit the area. I’d recommend combining it with Scotland for an unforgettable golfing journey, where we can secure access to some of the most iconic courses in the world. If golfing isn’t your thing, how about witnessing the total solar eclipse? We can arrange incredible experiences to admire this celestial event, visible from Luxor in Egypt, parts of Morocco and southern Spain in August 2027.”
We’re keen to maximize our time and combine two destinations in one trip. What can you recommend?
Dominic Atterton, Scott Dunn Private USA
"Alaska and Hawaii are two contrasting destinations that feel like they are on different planets. Conveniently connected by a direct six-hour flight from Anchorage to Honolulu, they are perfect for anyone seeking adventure, jaw-dropping natural beauty and time to unwind, all on one trip.”
Victoria Reynolds, Scott Dunn Private UK
“For an epic African duo, it doesn’t get more spectacular than Rwanda and Madagascar. Track mountain gorillas through the dense forests of Volcanoes National Park and explore one of the largest protected wetland areas in eastern Africa in Akagera National Park. Continue on to Madagascar to spot wild lemurs and humpback whales who arrive with the southeast trade winds, and participate in biodiversity conservation projects.”
Jane Ngiam, Scott Dunn Private Asia
“Tahiti and Easter Island make a rare combination that takes you to some of the world’s most remote civilisations. It’s easier to get between the two than you might think, flying from Tahiti to Santiago in Chile and then onwards to Easter Island.”
We’ve been on safari in Africa and loved it. What are some alternative wildlife experiences we could consider?
Nina Earl-Gray, Scott Dunn Private UK
“Baja California in Mexico is home to some of the most incredible marine life, with a huge variety of birds, whales and seals concentrated around Espírito Santo Island in the Sea of Cortés. Set sail across turquoise waters and you’ll quickly find yourself cruising alongside a dolphin pod or meters away from elusive whale sharks. The beaches here are also totally untouched, perfect for enjoying a fresh ceviche lunch.”
Jackie DeAntonis, Scott Dunn Private USA
“I’d highly recommend Mahale Mountains National Park in Tanzania. The landscapes are extraordinarily beautiful – lowland forests tumbling down onto the sandy shores of Lake Tanganyika – and it is one of the best places in the world to observe chimpanzees in the wild. The remoteness of this region means you will be one of very few visitors heading out in search of our closest relatives, watching them groom, wrestle and forage across the leafy floor.”
Hannah Scott, Scott Dunn Private UK
“It doesn’t get much more intrepid than a polar cruise. See nature in its purest form as you spot polar bears, seals, whales or penguins, completely at home in the remote wilderness of Antarctica, Greenland or Canada’s High Arctic.”
We’re planning a group trip for family and friends and want incredible exclusive-use accommodation – where do you recommend?
Jon Dunne, Scott Dunn Private UK
“If you want to get off grid and reconnect as a family, my suggestion is the recently opened Fawn Bluff Private Lodge in British Columbia. Set in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest, the lodge is only accessible by boat or seaplane. There’s plenty of space for a large family with five bedrooms in the main cabin and a two-bedroom lake cabin. You’ll be blown away by the exceptional wildlife including grizzly and black bears, sea otters, eagles, whales and dolphins.”
Gina Waygood, Scott Dunn Private UK
“Reschio is a very special Italian retreat on the border of Umbria and Tuscany. Set on a 1,500-hectare estate, the original Etruscan castle has been masterfully restored by the Bolza family. Eight magnificent homes offer total privacy, making it ideal for large groups. There are amazing experiences for any age, from horse riding, ceramics and wild swimming to cooking classes, olive oil and wine tasting.”
Jean Tay, Scott Dunn Private Asia
“A buyout of the new Hermes Catamaran in the Galapagos Islands would be the ultimate experience for a group. With 12 spacious suites accommodating 20 guests and a near one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio, it’s the first ultra-luxury superyacht to sail these abundant islands. Observe the region’s incredible biodiversity up close thanks to the expert knowledge of your own naturalist guide on board. For added land-based adventures, the Galapagos combines seamlessly with Ecuador or Peru.”
Sabastian Gittany, Scott Dunn Private UK
“For something truly off the beaten path, I highly recommend the &Beyond Punakha River Lodge in Bhutan. After spending a couple of nights there recently, I can confidently say it offers a luxurious experience deeply rooted in nature, culture and history. With only eight keys, including a beautifully appointed two-bedroom villa, the lodge ensures an intimate and exclusive stay. The culinary offering is a highlight, with a strong emphasis on sustainable produce and community engagement. For a longer, more immersive journey, combine the lodge with stays in other valleys to explore the full breadth of Bhutan’s magic.”
Call us on 858 345 1680 to start planning