Month: May 2023

From its rich cultural history to its treasure box of artistic masterpieces, Spain has long been a global leader in the world of art. The nation is home to some of the most prestigious art museums, boasting vast collections spanning centuries of priceless works. With its commitment to preservation, educational programs, and world-class facilities, Spain’s art museums truly set the gold standard for institutions worldwide. From the Golden Triangle of Madrid to the walkable art gallery that is Barcelona, here’s where to explore the best art museums in Spain. 

Experience it: Spain & Portugal in Style

Spain’s art heritage

Spanish art has a long and storied history, with each period boasting its own unique contributions to the global art scene. From prehistoric cave paintings and Roman mosaics to Gothic masterpieces, Spain has been a hotbed of artistic creativity and talent throughout the centuries. 

Commitment to preservation and conservation

Spain’s art museums play a key role as custodians of their nation’s artistic heritage. These institutions have made significant investments in state-of-the-art conservation to ensure their collections remain in pristine condition for generations to come. 

Spanish art museums also actively engage with their local communities and visitors from around the world through a wide range of educational programs. From guided tours and hands-on workshops to lecture series and special exhibitions, these institutions provide opportunities for visitors of all ages and backgrounds to connect with art in meaningful ways. Furthermore, many Spanish art museums offer free or reduced admission to students, seniors, and other groups, making their collections accessible to everyone.

Read more: The Luxury Gold guide to discovering statement art pieces on your travels

A thriving contemporary art scene

It’s not just about celebrating the old masters in Spain. The country’s contemporary art scene is alive and well, with numerous galleries and museums dedicated to showcasing the work of emerging and established artists alike. This commitment to fostering new talent ensures the country’s artistic legacy continues to flourish. There’s no doubt that Spain’s art museums will remain at the forefront of the global art scene for years to come.

World-class art museums

Spain’s diverse artistic heritage is reflected in its exceptional museums. Here are some of the best institutions you can’t miss.

Museo Nacional del Prado (Prado Museum) – Madrid

The Prado Museum is one of the most important and prestigious art museums in the world. It houses an extensive collection of European art from the 12th to the early 20th centuries. The museum’s collection is especially rich in Spanish paintings, including works by great masters like Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. You’ll also find masterpieces by international artists like Titian, Rubens and Bosch. 

You might also like: Famous art galleries in the world you need to visit at least once

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Some of the most best works to see in the Prado Museum

• Las Meninas by Diego Velázquez
• The Third of May 1808 by Francisco Goya
• The Naked Maja by Francisco Goya 
• The Garden of Earthly Delights by Hieronymus Bosch
• The Annunciation by Fra Angelico 
• The Descent from the Cross by Rogier van der Weyden 
• The Triumph of Death by Pieter Bruegel the Elder 
• Alegoría del Verano by Juan Antonio Ribera y Fernández

Read more: 5 timeless and beautiful European cities to re-discover this summer

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Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía (Reina Sofía Museum) – Madrid

The Reina Sofía Museum is dedicated to modern and contemporary art, with a strong emphasis on Spanish artists from the 20th century. The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, installations, photography, and multimedia works and features iconic pieces from the likes of Picasso, Dalí, Miró, and more.

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Some of the best works to see in the Reina Sofía Museum

• Guernica by Pablo Picasso
• The Persistence of Memory by Salvador Dalí
• Girl at the Window by Salvador Dalí
• Portrait II by Joan Miró
• Woman in Blue by Joan Miró
• A World by Ángeles Santos
• The Open Window by Juan Gris
• Monument to the Spanish Civil War by Alberto Sánchez
• The Screaming Pope by Francis Bacon

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Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum – Madrid

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum rounds out the famous Golden Triangle of art galleries in Madrid. It holds an extensive collection of European and American art from the 13th to the 20th centuries. The museum’s collection, assembled by the Thyssen-Bornemisza family, covers a wide range of styles and periods, including Impressionism, the German Renaissance, Italian primitives, and 19th-century American art.

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Some of the best works to see in the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

• Woman in a Hat (Olga) by Pablo Picasso
• Les Vessenots in Auvers by Vincent van Gogh
• Poppy Field by Claude Monet 
• The Annunciation by El Greco
• Dream Caused by the Flight of a Bee around a Pomegranate a Second before Waking by Salvador Dalí
• The Annunciation Dyptich by Jan van Eyck
• Saint Catherine of Alexandria by Caravaggio
• Young Knight in a Landscape by Vittore Carpaccio
• The Penitent Saint Jerome by Titian

Read more: A work of heart: meet the founder of the Rosengart collection

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Guggenheim Museum Bilbao – Bilbao

Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is a striking contemporary art museum that has become a symbol of the city. The museum’s magnificent facade is a work of art in itself, but head inside and you’ll discover some extraordinary collections of art. The museum largely focuses on post-war European and American art, showcasing works by some of the most influential artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, including Rothko, de Kooning, Warhol, and Kiefer.

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Some of the best works to see in the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

• The Matter of Time by Richard Serra
• Maman by Louise Bourgeois
• Tulips by Jeff Koons
• Puppy by Jeff Koons
• One Hundred and Fifty Multicolored Marilyns by Andy Warhol
• Villa Borghese by Willem de Kooning
• The Large Glass by Marcel Duchamp
• The Fish by Frank Gehry

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Barcelona

With its many museums, galleries and architectural gems, the city of Barcelona is like one giant art gallery. From Gaudí’s influence to the works of Picasso, here are some of the best art and architecture to see in Barcelona.

Sagrada Familia

This iconic church is one of Barcelona’s most famous landmarks and is still under construction, more than a century after Antoni Gaudí began work on it. Its distinctive spires and ornate facade are unparalleled.

Park Güell

This public park is one of Gaudí’s most famous works, known for its colorful mosaic sculptures and panoramic views of the city.

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Casa Batlló

With its undulating façade, colorful mosaics, and sculptural forms, this apartment building is iconic Gaudí.

Casa Milà

Also known as La Pedrera, this building’s rippling rooftop, curved facade, and intricate ironwork, and is considered one of Gaudí’s most innovative works.

Palau de la Música Catalana

This concert hall is famed for its beautiful stained glass windows, mosaics, and ornate design, and is one of the most beautiful buildings in Barcelona.

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Picasso Museum

This museum is dedicated to the works of Pablo Picasso and features many of his early works and important pieces from his career.

Joan Miró Foundation

You’ll find an impressive collection of the works of Joan Miró here, including paintings, sculptures and drawings. 

Gothic Quarter

This historic neighborhood is filled with stunning Gothic architecture, narrow streets, and charming squares.

Barcelona Pavilion

Designed by the famous architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, this iconic building is renowned for its minimalist and elegant design and innovative use of materials.

Read more: These are 2023’s most remarkable luxury travel trends

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Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (National Art Museum of Catalonia) – Barcelona

Special mention goes to the National Art Museum of Catalonia in Barcelona. It houses a vast collection of Catalan, Spanish, and international art spanning from the Romanesque period to the mid-20th century. It’s also famous for its collection of Romanesque mural paintings, considered one of the most important in the world.

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Some of the best works to see in the National Art Museum of Catalonia

• Apse of Sant Climent de Taüll by the Master of Taüll 
• The mural paintings of the Conquest of Majorca
• Saint Peter and Saint Paul by El Greco
• The Virgin of the Consellers by Lluís Dalmau
• Portrait of Ramon Casas by Ramon Casas 
• The Spanish Wedding by Mariano Fortuny Marsal

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Journey from Barcelona to Madrid on our Spain & Portugal in Style luxury tour and take a deep dive into Spain’s most extraordinary art museums, or explore more of what the country has to offer on a luxury trip to Spain.

The coffee bean may be one of the most important products in the world. Not only is it one of the most traded commodities, but over one billion people worldwide drink coffee every day. The humble coffee bean has taken quite the journey, originating from trees in Ethiopia to now uniting billions of people across the globe. We look at the meteoric rise of our precious black gold and how you can indulge in gourmet coffee tasting experiences in the most remarkable coffee-producing places on earth. 

The origins of coffee

Over 1,000 years ago, the coffee bean was discovered in the Kaffa region of Ethiopia. According to legend, a goat herder named Kaldi discovered the stimulating effects of coffee beans when he noticed his goats became more energetic after eating the berries from a certain tree. 

Traders soon began transporting the coffee beans from Ethiopia to the Arabian Peninsula, where the lucrative coffee cultivation and trade began. The port of Mocha in Yemen became a key center for the coffee trade, and it gained popularity in Muslim communities. 

In the 16th century, European traders began bringing coffee back to Europe. The first coffeehouses opened in Venice in the late 1500s, and by the 17th century, coffeehouses had become social hubs in major European cities like London, Paris, and Vienna.

Read more: The ‘world’s best restaurant’ is closing its doors – 4 contenders to steal its crown

The 20th-century transformation of coffee

Fast-forward to the 20th century and coffee had cemented its position as a lucrative commodity for the masses. In 1901, Japanese-American chemist Satori Kato created the first instant coffee, paving the way for a new era of coffee consumption. Instant coffee made the humble coffee bean more accessible and easier to prepare and became especially popular among soldiers during World War II. 

Another turning point in the history of coffee was the invention of the expression machine. Italian inventors Luigi Bezzera and Desiderio Pavoni created the first espresso machine, which used steam pressure to force hot water through coffee grounds. They introduced it to the world at the 1906 Milan Fair and it took off. Over the following decades, espresso machines evolved into the modern pump-driven espresso machine in the 1960s. These machines made high-quality espresso more widely available and set the stage for the espresso-based drinks that would dominate coffee culture in the coming years.

The next key step in the global takeover of the coffee bean was the arrival of coffee chains. The mid-20th century saw the rise of coffee chains that would come to define the modern coffee shop experience. Founded in 1971, the now globally recognized Starbucks was founded in 1971 and expanded rapidly. With their inviting atmosphere, comfortable seating, and diverse menu of espresso-based drinks, coffee chains like Starbucks made coffee tasting a social and sensory experience.

Read more: The personal touch: our top 5 curated luxury travel experiences for 2023

The artisanal coffee movement 

The mass commercialization of coffee drinking also triggered the specialty coffee movement we continue to adore today. The movement was all about artisanal roasters, baristas and coffee shops focusing on coffee education, appreciation, and holistic quality, from the beans to the brewing process. 

Specialty coffee shops began to showcase single-origin beans, highlighting their unique flavors and the countries where they were grown. As consumers became more discerning, coffee producers and roasters were encouraged to innovate and pursue higher quality in every aspect of coffee production.

Today, the coffee bean is black gold, elevated to the status of an artisanal product, akin to wine or craft beer. Coffee shops focus on quality, sustainability, and transparency in their sourcing and brewing practices. In recent decades, there has been a growing emphasis on the ethical and environmental aspects of coffee production. Organizations such as Fair Trade International and Rainforest Alliance have emerged to promote fair prices for coffee farmers, better working conditions, and environmentally sustainable practices.

The coffee industry continues to explore new methods of brewing and serving coffee. Cold brew coffee, which involves steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, offers a smoother, less acidic flavor profile, and has become the latest trend in coffee culture. As we continue to explore new flavors and brewing methods, the world of coffee shows no signs of slowing down. 

Read more: Mayta in Lima, Peru named one of the world’s top 50 restaurants

Our coffee tasting experiences 

What was once a humble cup of joe has become black gold; an almost gourmet experience enjoyed by billions. And just as wine tasting is a much-loved experience, you can also find coffee tasting experiences in some of the most incredible destinations in the world, from Asia to South America. 

A coffee tasting experience goes beyond savoring the delicious coffee flavors and offers a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diverse world of coffee production and tradition.  Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or simply love coffee in all its forms, these are some of our favorite destinations for an authentic coffee tasting experience. 

Read more: Fine dining, dressed down: the cuisine of Vietnam and Cambodia

Brazil

As the largest coffee producer globally, Brazil accounts for around one-third of the world’s coffee production – so you know they make an exceptional cup of coffee. Brazil primarily grows Arabica beans, with some Robusta production as well.

If you’d like to learn about Brazilian coffee cultivation, head to the renowned coffee-growing regions of Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Espírito Santo. You can also find coffee cupping sessions at specialty coffee shops or roasteries, where you’ll sample different coffee profiles and discover the unique characteristics of Brazilian beans. You also can’t miss exploring Brazil’s thriving coffee scene in major cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, where you can indulge in espresso brews and single-origin pour-overs. 

When you travel to Rio de Janeiro with Luxury Gold, we’ll treat you to a lavish lunch at Confeitaria Colombo, the prestigious coffee shop dating back to 1894. Afterward, continue your exploration of Brazil’s rich coffee culture and more on our grand tour of South America.

Experience it: Classic South America

Vietnam

As the second-largest global coffee producer, Vietnam and coffee go hand-in-hand. The country is predominantly known for its strong Robusta beans and drip coffee but also produces specialty Arabica beans in the high-altitude regions of Dalat and Son La. You can visit the coffee plantations in the Central Highlands, where you’ll learn about local farming practices and coffee cultivation. 

You’ll want to try a cup of traditional Vietnamese drip coffee, made by brewing coffee with a metal drip filter and mixing it with sweetened condensed milk. The result is a strong, sweet, and creamy coffee served either hot or iced. You can also sample the unique egg coffee, a blend of strong black coffee topped with a frothy layer of whisked egg yolks, sugar, and condensed milk.

When you travel to Saigon with Luxury Gold, you’ll have the chance to indulge in a coffee tasting. As we wander the streets of Ho Chi Minh, you’ll hear about the local street-side café culture. You’ll then learn the art of making the perfect cup of Vietnamese coffee, before indulging in one of your own. 

Experience it: Cambodia & Vietnam in Style

Peru

Famed as one of the leading coffee producers in South America and the world, Peru has a reputation for high-quality, organic and certified Fair Trade Arabica beans. Peruvian coffee is characterized by its bright acidity, medium body, and fruity notes. While most people visit the Sacred Valley as a gateway to Machu Picchu, it’s also one of the best places to visit Peru’s lush coffee farms. You’ll learn about the local coffee production process and hear more about the importance of sustainable coffee farming. 

The specialty coffee shops of Lima and Cusco are fantastic places to attend cupping sessions and coffee workshops, where you can savor different Peruvian coffee. Be sure to sample traditional Peruvian drinks such as “Pasado,” a slow-drip coffee made with a cloth filter, or “Quishr,” an infusion made from dried coffee cherry husks.

Experience it: Treasures of the Incas

India

Known for producing both Arabica and Robusta beans, India plays a significant role in the world’s coffee consumption. Indian coffee is renowned for its unique flavors. They can range from spicy and earthy to sweet and fruity, depending on the region and processing method. The country’s emerald coffee estates are primarily found in the southern states of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. You can visit these coffee plantations to savor freshly brewed coffee while learning about Indian coffee production. 

For a unique experience, try the traditional South Indian filter coffee, a strong and aromatic coffee made by brewing finely ground coffee with a metal filter and mixing it with frothy, boiled milk. You’ll also find a thriving specialty coffee shop scene in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore, where you can indulge in expertly brewed coffees made with locally grown beans.

Experience it: Essence of India

At the helm of every Luxury Gold journey is your Travel Concierge. The ultimate destination experts, they offer flawless service 24/7, ensuring your tour is tailored to you. 

For this month’s Travel Concierge spotlight, we sat down with Travel Concierge Michael to find out more about the delights that await you on the Castles & Kingdoms luxury tour, and how he makes this tour exceptional.

Sharing the stories of the UK and Ireland

Born and bred in Ireland, Michael is proud to show people around his homeland. “I like to tell stories about the old way and take our guests on a journey to discover what these islands are all about,” says Michael.

We think you might be interested in: Why Britain is an incredible destination for 2023

Iconic experiences taken to the next level

One of the best parts of a Luxury Gold tour is how we elevate even the most classic travel experiences. “For example, we visit the Giant’s Causeway but we have a specialized local guide who’s a cut above the rest,” says Michael. “We get one of the rangers there to come and talk to us. With that level of depth, our guests get a feel for the country, the people, the culture and history. And they take a little bit of that back home with them in their heart, or leave a little bit of their heart over here.”

We think you might be interested in: The personal touch: Our top 5 curated luxury travel experiences for 2023

Bringing back the golden age of travel

When you ask Michael what he loves about being a Luxury Gold Travel Concierge, he says it’s getting to look after our guests the old-fashioned way. “It’s like the golden age of travel,” says Michael. “The hotels are fantastic, the food and dining are the best, and the itinerary is well thought out. It’s the way we look after people. We listen to what the guests have said and it’s absolutely fantastic. It’s an absolute dream. It’s a pleasure to be out there.”

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Going above and beyond

Michael says being a Luxury Gold Travel Concierge goes far beyond being a travel guide. “It’s a lot more than guiding,” says Michael. “I take care of people’s needs. I’m like their personal butler. With small group numbers, you can offer more personalized service and you can really look after people. It’s all in the little details. I take care of everything for them and fulfil special requests with the utmost discretion.”

We think you might be interested in: The Royal Treatment: All the Ways We Make Your Trip Exceptional

Special touches

Michael also likes to add special extra touches to each tour, such as arranging surprise treats. It all adds to the unique, personalized experience for his guests. “I’m so proud to be conducting these tours, they really are the best. I can’t say this enough,” says Michael.

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Michael’s highlights

As a Travel Concierge on our Castles & Kingdoms luxury tour, we asked Michael for his insider tips on the very best places and experiences in England. These are his top picks:

Staying at The Rubens at the Palace in London

Located directly opposite the royal residence of Buckingham Palace, five-star Rubens is a truly extraordinary stay. Michael says it certainly lives up to its reputation, from the red tail-coated doormen to the regal bedrooms. 

The dining is also fantastic here, with traditional afternoon teas in the Palace Lounge and dinners at the lavish English Grill Restaurant, one of the most renowned restaurants in London. Guests will enjoy a Welcome Dinner here prepared by executive chef Ben Kelliher using the same suppliers who serve the King’s kitchen. 

When staying at The Rubens, Michael also likes to take his guests for a round of drinks nearby at The Albert, an ornate Victorian pub.

We think you might be interested in: How to spend 24 hours at 7 of the most exquisite hotels around the world

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An exclusive after-hours visit to the Tower of London 

Michael says the private tour of the Tower of London is one of the most remarkable experiences on any tour. We arrange a special after-hours visit to the iconic fortress, once the crowds have gone home. A Yeoman Warder greets you at the regal tower and you’ll then bear witness to the Ceremony of the Keys, the oldest practised military ceremony in the world, carried out every night for the past 700 years. 

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After-hours tour of Castle Howard

The exclusive experiences don’t end there. You’ll also enjoy a private after-hours tour of Castle Howard, an 18th-century mansion that will have you feeling like Queen Charlotte or a star in Bridgerton.

Read more: The Bridgerton effect: How to vacation like the aristocracy in the UK

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Meeting the Duchess of Northumberland at Alnwick Castle

When Michael says we offer experiences that are a cut above the rest, he means it. When you travel on a Founder’s Collection departure of our Castles & Kingdoms tour, you’ll meet Her Grace, The Duchess of Northumberland as she personally welcomes you for a private tour of Alnwick Castle Gardens. You’ll also meet the Head Gardener who will take you deeper into the gardens as you hear the fascinating story of how the Duchess restored the gardens to their former 18th-century glory over the last 20 years. From the lush labyrinth to the serpent garden and ornate fountains, the gardens are spectacular.

Read more: Introducing the Duchess of Northumberland

Scenic adventures in the British countryside

“It’s a pleasure to experience the beauty and majesty of the British countryside,” says Michael. He takes our guests on a scenic journey through England, from the fairytale villages of the Cotswolds to the Tudor cottages of Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare. Step back into the past in medieval York or wander through the Georgian city of Bath. Roam through rolling green hills, emerald valleys, ancient cobbled streets, and traditional tearooms. 

These experiences only skim the surface of the extraordinary experiences you’ll encounter on our luxury tours in the UK. Discover more by taking a look at our Castles & Kingdoms luxury tour and enjoy the exceptional personal service of your Travel Concierge.