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.

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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.”

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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.”

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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.

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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.

In South Africa’s Western Cape, the enchanting Cape Winelands may just be the most coveted wine region in the world. With sublime scenery, world-class wines, and rich cultural history, this remarkable region is a sought-after destination for wine lovers and travelers alike. From soaring mountains and manicured gardens to lush vineyards and charming Cape Dutch architecture, we take you on a journey through some of the most beautiful South African wineries in the Cape Winelands.

Experience it: Spectacular South Africa

Vergelegen Estate

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Located in Somerset West in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Vergelegen Estate is one of the oldest and most prestigious South African wineries. Established in 1700, the estate has over 300 years of rich history and is home to historic Cape Dutch architecture, manicured gardens, and award-winning wines. 

Vergelegen, meaning “situated far away” in Dutch, covers around 3,000 extraordinary hectares, with 146 hectares dedicated to vineyards producing a wide variety of grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc.

As part of our Spectacular South Africa luxury tour, you’ll indulge in a wine tasting of the estate’s premium wines while soaking up the stunning views of the Hottentots Holland Mountains. You can also explore the historic homestead, the library, and the mill ruins. Or enjoy a stroll through the ancient camphor tree forest or the 18 unique gardens, including the lovely rose garden. 

Read more: An exclusive invitation from La Famiglia Mazzei, a Tuscan wine dynasty

Boschendal Wine Estate

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Boschendal Wine Estate is a picturesque winery nestled between the Groot Drakenstein and Simonsberg Mountains in the Franschhoek Valley. Established in 1685, it’s one of the oldest and most celebrated South African wineries, with a remarkable history, diverse wines, and breathtaking scenery. 

Spread over 2,400 hectares, the estate is a tranquil haven of flower beds, luscious lawns, shady okay trees, and fruit and vegetable gardens. As for the wines, Boschendal is known for its award-winning Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, and Méthode Cap Classique. 

When you travel on our Spectacular South Africa luxury tour, you’ll savour a farm-to-table lunch at Boschendal Wine Estate. Chef Allistaire Lawrence presents a seasonal menu with local and ethically sourced produce harvested from the Werf Food Garden. After your meal, you can explore the restored Cape Dutch Manor House, original wine cellar, and dreamy rose garden. You can also admire the impressive collection of Cape Dutch furniture and artwork, before returning to Cape Town in a chauffeured vintage car.

Read more: What to look for in a top-quality Pinot Noir, by wine expert Courtney Kingston

Babylonstoren

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Set in the heart of the Drakenstein Valley between Franschhoek and Paarl, Babylonstoren is famed for its immaculate gardens, award-winning wines, and luxurious spa. This farm and wine estate is not only beautiful but historic, dating back to 1692. 

The impressive gardens span over eight acres and are designed in the style of a traditional Cape Dutch farm. The gardens have over 300 varieties of plants, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers. You can explore the gardens, learn about sustainable farming practices, and even take part in the harvesting.

One of the highlights of this wine estate is the Greenhouse restaurant. Walk through the tall oaks and arrive at the gorgeous Greenhouse, where you can enjoy picnic-style lunches and teas in the dappled sunlight of the greenhouse.

Read more: Cape expectations: how Travel Concierge Jameel makes South Africa sing

Waterford Estate

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Located in the scenic Blaauwklippen Valley in Stellenbosch, South Africa’s most famous wine-producing region, Waterford Estate is renowned for its spectacular views and exceptional wine-tasting experiences.

Established in 1998, Waterford Estate cultivates a variety of grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Shiraz. Their flagship wine, “The Jem”, is a blend of several grape varieties showcasing the diversity of the Stellenbosch terroir. Indulge in a wine-tasting of all their award-winning wines, or take part in the more unique wine and chocolate tasting. 

Waterford Estate’s stunning setting adds to its allure. Surrounded by lush vineyards, fragrant citrus orchards, and breathtaking views of Helderberg Mountain, the estate creates an idyllic atmosphere. The Mediterranean-style architecture, including the terracotta-tiled buildings and courtyard, adds a touch of European elegance to the South African landscape.

Read more: This is what it’s actually like to travel on South Africa’s Rovos Rail

La Motte Wine Estate

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The esteemed La Motte winery is located in the magnificent Franschhoek Valley, one of the premier wine-producing regions in South Africa’s Cape Winelands. La Motte has a rich history dating back to 1695, with over three centuries spent refining its delectable wines reflecting the unique terroir of the Franschhoek Valley. Their notable wines include the La Motte Sauvignon Blanc, La Motte Chardonnay, and the La Motte Pierneef Shiraz Viognier.

The most striking features of La Motte are its gorgeous gardens and superbly restored Cape Dutch-style manor house, dating back to the 18th century. The manor house sits among the gardens, with its traditional whitewashed walls, thatched roof, and intricate gables. After exploring the charming building, you’ll find it’s a pleasure to get lost in the gardens. You can wander through the peaceful lily pond and the rose garden with over 1,000 rose bushes. There’s also the remarkable herb and vegetable garden that supplies the estate’s restaurant.

La Motte is also home to an impressive collection of Pierneef artworks, one of South Africa’s most celebrated artists. The Pierneef à La Motte Museum showcases a permanent exhibition of his works, alongside other rotating art exhibitions.

Read more: The perfect Australian grape by wine expert, Nick Williams of Hungerford Hill

Delaire Graff Estate

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Perched on the Helshoogte Pass between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, Delaire Graff Estate is one of the most exclusive South African wineries, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and unparalleled luxury. 

The first thing you notice is how the design of the estate’s architecture intentionally maximizes the views. With floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive terraces, you can fully immerse yourself in the scenes of the Stellenbosch mountains. The immaculate gardens showcase indigenous plants, vibrant flowers and manicured lawns. Meanwhile, the exquisite vineyards produce a range of award-winning wines, including Bordeaux-style red blends, Chardonnay, and Chenin Blanc.

You’ll also find an impressive collection of contemporary South African art. The estate houses sculptures, paintings, and installations by acclaimed artists such as Lionel Smit, Deborah Bell, and Dylan Lewis. Thoughtfully displayed throughout the estate, including the fine dining restaurants, the art collection adds to the sophisticated atmosphere. It’s no wonder the estate is known as the Jewel of the Cape Winelands.

When it comes to luxury travel, the difference is in the details. It’s the little things, like priority access, door-to-door transfers, special surprises, and personalized service that elevate your tour and give you the full royal treatment.

From unparalleled attention to detail from your Travel Concierge to exclusive curated experiences, here are all the ways we make your trip exceptional. 

Personalized service from your Travel Concierge

At the heart of every Luxury Gold tour is your dedicated Travel Concierge. As masters of anticipating your needs and identifying your preferences, they ensure you receive personalized attention throughout your journey. From making restaurant reservations to offering local recommendations and fulfilling special requests, the Travel Concierge goes the extra mile to tailor every detail to your individual preferences. 

Read more: Cape Expectations: How Travel Concierge Jameel Makes South Africa Sing

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Private door-to-door transfers

Forget frantic trips to the airport. The royal treatment starts as soon as you step out your door. Your bespoke Luxury Gold experience begins with private door-to-door transfers. You’ll enjoy a seamless transfer from your home to your local airport with a private car and driver. That also includes door-to-door porterage. We take care of your luggage with the utmost care and attention, with hassle-free transfers and convenient door-to-door porterage between every destination. 

Special surprises

While you can count on unwavering support and service on your Luxury Gold tour, you can expect the unexpected when we surprise you with special treats or experiences throughout your journey. It’s just one of the ways we add a touch of magic to your trip. 

Read more: 5 of the best Passport Moments you’ll enjoy with Luxury Gold

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Priority access

Avoid long queues and enjoy priority access and reserved seating at all the popular attractions and events you visit on your tour. 

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Exclusive VIP experiences

The standout highlights of any Luxury Gold tour are the exclusive VIP experiences. These unique opportunities allow you to access venues or events that are typically off-limits to the general public. 

Tour castle gardens with a Duchess, meet an Austrian princess, or have lunch with an iconic Peruvian politician. Set off on a private tour of a renowned art gallery after hours, dine in a historic castle, or enjoy an exclusive wine tasting with a world-class sommelier. Our curated experiences take you beyond the velvet rope to create unforgettable moments and a truly royal treatment. 

Read more: Exclusive travel encounters: Founder’s Collection

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Exceptional dining experiences

Fine dining is a key part of the Luxury Gold experience and our team goes above and beyond to provide remarkable dining experiences. We take you to the impossible-to-get-into Michelin-star restaurants and arrange private culinary events where you can savor gourmet meals and local flavors that will satisfy even the most discerning tastes. 

Read more: What to expect when dining at a Michelin starred restaurant

Unique stays

An exceptional tour isn’t simply about luxury stays. We handpick each accommodation to ensure you experience not only luxurious comfort but also authentic and unique stays. From historic mansions and castles to opulent properties that are loved by royals themselves, you’ll explore some of the most extraordinary establishments in the world.

Read more: 7 Luxury Gold hotels that have hosted royals, celebrities and more

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Luxury transport

A truly remarkable trip understands that every stage of your journey needs to be outstanding – including your transport. From private transfers to first-class train carriages, we ensure your transport is just as enjoyable as the destination. Our spacious luxury coaches come with comforts like complimentary Wi-Fi, extra legroom, and refreshments and snacks on board.

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Small group journeys

Another one of the ways we make your trip extraordinary is by limiting our luxury small group tours to an average of 20 guests. This ensures an intimate and more personal travel experience. With fewer guests, you’ll have a more relaxed pace of travel, better access to attractions, and richer encounters with locals. 

Read more: 7 ways Luxury Gold makes your travel experience completely stress free

Expert local guides

We partner with knowledgeable local guides who provide expert insights into each destination’s history and culture. These passionate guides share their personal stories and insider perspectives, bringing each location to life in the most unique way.

Explore our luxury tours and find out more about how we give you the royal treatment when you travel with Luxury Gold.