Beauty, elegance, power and rhythm. Flamenco epitomises the heritage and passion of Spain and has become one of the icons of its culture. In Seville, guests of Luxury Gold are invited deep into the heart of this timeless art, with a flamenco class and performance at the acclaimed dance school, the Cristina Heeren Foundation.

Feel the passion behind the choreography on this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you meet students of the school. Discover the history of flamenco, learn some steps before enjoying an intimate, exhilarating performance by some of Spain’s finest Flamenco artists.

Discovering and training the best in the business and preserving this exquisite art form for future generations, Alexandra Hoffer, Director of the Cristina Heeren Foundation tells us more about this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Discover this on: Spain & Portugal in Style

Making the stars of the future

 “I call all my students my children. It’s amazing to have these people that were just 16 when you started working with them, and now you see them as big flamenco stars,” says Alexandra. “It’s very rewarding, we’ve made many artists. Around 70% of the top dancers are our ex-students. It’s wonderful to see how they evolve.”

Alexandra joined the Cristina Heeren Foundation when it opened in 1996. Named after its president, students study advanced guitar, singing and dance to the highest level. Through this, the foundation is also safeguarding the traditional of flamenco (inscribed in 2010 as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage) and contributing to the protection of Andalusia and Spain’s cultural heritage.

Flamenco has many modern influences, but Alexandra explains “What we teach is the classical tradition of flamenco. We think that in order to evolve, you need to have the basis. We are the only Flamenco school offing the three specialties together – singing, guitar and dancing. So, we have students studying different aspects and they’re together all the time.”

For travel inspiration: Spain destination guide

An exquisite art form and an expression of life

Credit: @fundacionflamencoheeren on Instagram

Flamenco is formed from a melting pot of music styles that evolved in Andalucía and were transmitted through generations. These styles include Jewish, Arab, Castilian, old Andalusian and gypsy music.

“Flamenco started in the very poor communities, as an expression of life,” Alexandra says. “It celebrates a newborn and a death. Somebody who went to jail, was married, somebody who’s going to work. So, there are many different styles of flamenco and each one of them represents and expresses a different time of your life.”

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Enjoy a flamenco class with the professionals

Credit: @fundacionflamencoheeren on Instagram

Guests have the opportunity to learn some dance steps, under the expert eye of some of the school’s star pupils. “Flamenco is empowering, we find everyone who tries it loves it” says Alexandra. “In the flamenco class we teach guests different rhythms, and the how to move their hips, arms and feet. It’s a very sensual and enjoyable dance.

“Because you’re all learning, everyone is very supportive and applauds each other. Afterwards we share a glass of sangria and either myself or my companions are there to answer any questions. This is an exclusive opportunity to get to the heart of Flamenco from those who live and breathe it.

“Learning the steps and meeting the dancers also furnishes guests with a deeper knowledge and connection to the flamenco. This makes the show which comes next even more memorable.”

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The best artists, so close you can feel them

Credit: @fundacionflamencoheeren on Instagram

As a grand finale, guests are treated to a thrilling and intimate performance, featuring the very best dancers and musicians. “For our show we have the best flamenco artists you will find” enthuses Alexandra. “As the director of the theater, I only select top professionals. Some of them are very young but are dancing with big companies. It’s really important for me that these are the very best.

“Our theatre is very intimate, and the proximity to the performers takes the appreciation of flamenco to a whole new level. When you go into a big flamenco theatre it’s wonderful, but something gets lost. In my theatre you’re right in amongst it, you can really feel the dancers, the singing and the guitarist. It makes a big difference to the experience.

The school’s performances are renowned amongst locals as well as visitors, a testament to the quality.  “I have one dancer and there’s huge crowd that love her,” Alexandra says. “So, they come all the time and see her because they say it’s amazing that to be able to see her up close and really enjoy her dance. You can see how she breathes and how she moves each single finger. It’s this proximity that makes it very special.”

Read next: Meet Michelin-star chef Vicent Guimerà of Spain’s L’Antic Molí restaurant

We MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Chosen with great care for their positive impact on our planet its people and wildlife, our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences are aligned to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This experience directly advances UN SDGs 4: Quality Education and 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. The school enables students access to cultural education, safeguarding the traditional flamenco dance and Spain’s cultural heritage.

The Cristina Heeren Foundation is also a recipient of a grant from our TreadRight Foundation. Through this the school is able to support four students per year who will benefit from an extra year of study to really mature as dancers.

“We see some artists, some students that are very good, but they still need one more year to keep on specializing” Alexandra explains. “Through the grant we are able to develop them further, keeping even more talent in training for the future and preserving this elite art form for generations to come.”

You may also be interested to read: Connect With the Natural World Through These Exclusive Experiences

To embrace the passion of Spain for yourself, learn steps in a flamenco class and enjoy this memorable performance, take a look at Spain & Portugal in Style

Home to the Taj Mahal, Maharajah’s palaces, vibrant cities and exquisite desert retreats, India is renowned for its warm welcome and outstanding hospitality. Luxury travel in India is always an unforgettable experience, made even more exceptional by your Luxury Gold Travel Concierge.

To learn more about the highlights that await guests on our Imperial Rajasthan tour, and how your journey to India will surprise and delight, we spoke with Travel Concierge Viren.

“I’ve travelled to many countries around the world but there’s nowhere quite like India,” Viren says. Working as a Luxury Gold Travel Concierge since 2015, he’s very proud to share his beautiful country with guests. “As someone who represents India and Luxury Gold, my aim is that each and every guest has an amazing time.”

For travel inspiration: India destination guide

A luxurious world of contrasts

“India is a country of contrasts that will never bore you; something is happening somewhere all the time. The cities are bursting with life and activity and aromas. The desert is an oasis of calm and tranquillity.

“Imperial Rajasthan is a tour that celebrates India’s contrasts. The beauty of travelling to India with Luxury Gold is that you can enjoy the vibrancy, but also retreat and relax in the most magnificent hotels. We see big cities, smaller towns and the desert. We meet experts and locals and, of course, enjoy the most delicious cuisine.”

Discover this on: Imperial Rajasthan

Imperial Rajasthan

Celebrating India is all its vibrant glory, our Imperial Rajasthan luxury small group journey begins in the capital New Delhi. Over 13 days, enjoy the best of luxury travel in India. See Agra, home to the Taj Mahal and the pink city of Jaipur. The desert village of Khimsar provides a stunning oasis retreat while the grandeur of Jaisalmer’s fort never ceases to amaze. Blue hues in Jodhpur and Udaipur’s sublime lake Palaces complete your vivid, and unforgettable picture of India, each step paired with unrivalled hospitality and sensational cuisine.

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Your Travel Concierge is always by your side

“India is an amazing country – with a human touch,” says Viren. “People are welcoming here, and because it’s a country where English is not a foreign language, it is very easy to converse with locals. As your Travel Concierge, I’m always on hand to help guests understand local customs and assist with any cultural questions.

“In some smaller towns, people may have never seen somebody from the Western world. They will be keen to learn and know more about you. It’s quite endearing and special that curiosity is still there, despite the modernisation of India and the world.  Don’t be surprised if you are invited to an Indian wedding if happening in the same hotel where you are staying!

“This culturally vibrant country gives immense pleasure to guests who are into cultural exploration. Having your Travel Concierge to guide you through everything enables you to embrace the full vivid picture of India, whilst having an expert local by your side taking care of every detail.”

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Tailoring your tour

“With such a wealth of cultural riches to explore, there are many opportunities on Imperial Rajasthan where you can personalise your day,” says Viren. “Created with the Luxury Gold guest in mind, we offer thoughtfully curated options to explore your destination. I spend time talking to guests to get to know them and their preferences and explain the options to find the best fit.”

“On the first day of the tour, guests can choose to take a food walk with a local expert chef,” Viren tells us “This intimate tour gives guests a chance to explore Old Delhi on the street. You stop at different points and taste the the delicacies – it’s a fascinating and personal way to discover the history, people and culture.”

Old Delhi’s tangle of ancient streets and alleyways, filled with all kinds of shops and people is a bustling sight to behold. “Some of these outlets are more than 100 years old. To have been in business for a century speaks to the quality of the food, with recipes handed down through generations. And it’s not just about tasting. The chef also how the dishes are prepared, how the spices are mixed and answers all your questions.

Guests can also choose instead to visit the 12th century Qutub Minar and see the tallest brick minaret in the world. “For those that prefer to focus on history, there is the option of visiting a monument which is 1000 years old, which is also very special.”

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A wealth of options to personalize your day

When in Agra, home of the Taj Mahal, guests can choose between meeting locals on a Murgal Heritage walk, to learn about daily life in the ancient village. Alternatively, you may prefer to visit a private colonial bungalow and join the host family for high tea. To gain a deeper connection to Jaipur you can visit the fresh flower and spice market, or the white marble Birla Mandir Hindu temple to witness a traditional prayer ceremony. And in Udaipur, choose to cruise the serene waters of Lake Pichola or explore the colourful bazaar in the old city.

India’s contrasts reflected through exceptional hotels

“All hotels on Imperial Rajasthan are both luxurious and fascinating,” says Viren of this hallmark of luxury travel in India. “Each one offers something different. Rajasthan as a state is blessed with heritage properties. Many forts and palaces have been converted to spectacular hotels. This offers not only an exceptional hospitality experience, but you get to further see the historical and cultural contrasts of India.”

India’s penchant for hospitality paired with your Travel Concierge taking care of all the details ensures a sublime, flawless experience at every destination. “I hand each guest their key on arrival and their luggage is ready waiting in their rooms.,” Viren says. “This means you have even more time to enjoy the sensational rooms and amenities.”

Discover more of India’s exceptional hotels: Step Inside the Most Unique Luxury Retreats in India

Intrigue and luxury every night

“The Imperial in New Delhi, is a great example of a colonial hotel,” Viren says. “Then, when you step into the lobby of the ITC Mughal Resort and Spa in Agra, it looks like you are in a Mughal court.” Located close to the Taj Mahal and boasting beautiful gardens, the Mughal hotel perfectly recreates the splendour and majesty of the Mughal Dynasty.

In Khimsar the Welcome Hotel offers a historical sanctuary with oasis style grounds spread over eleven acres of sand dunes. While in Udaipur the Leela Palace Hotel is built in the style of a grand Maharaja’s palace, evoking the mystique of a bygone age and celebrating the best of luxury travel in India.

“Staying in a heritage hotel which is centuries old is always an exceptional experience and is a highlight of luxury trips to India” Viren tells us. “When guests know it was not built as a hotel, but as part of a nobleman’s property history, that makes it much more exclusive.”

Take a closer look at the Leela Palace Hotel, Udaipur: Looking to rekindle the romance? This luxurious Udaipur hotel ticks all the boxes

The Taj Mahal at sunrise

One of India’s most iconic monuments, the Taj Mahal is a must-see sight. Travel with Luxury Gold and you’ll see it in peace and calm. “Sunrise is always the best time to visit the majestic Taj Mahal and we ensure this moment for our guests,” says Viren. “The early morning has its own charm, and the crowds are sparse. The light is soft, it’s a photographer’s delight. Perfect for capturing this unforgettable monument to love.”

Explore Jaipur City Palace like a VIP

“The City Palace, now mostly a museum, was the residence of the former royal family, when Jaipur was founded,” explains Viren. “Part of the residence is a seven-storey palace, called the Moon Palace, and very few people are allowed to go inside.

Enjoy a private access tour around Jaipur City Palace including the maharajah’s personal living room, normally off limits to visitors. Savour an Indian inspired high tea on the regal terrace after viewing the spectacular handcrafted crystal table by René Lalique.

“Inside it is very beautiful with paintings dating back from the 18th century, ivory trinkets and an old elevatorlike the Maharaja’s used. From the top you get a unique view of the city. The experience of actually going to a place which is where others cannot go is the epitome of luxury travel in India and makes it very special.”

Dine amongst the dunes in Jaisalmer

Exquisite cuisine is a hallmark of all Luxury Gold tours. With many great culinary experiences to choose from, one of the most sublime on Imperial Rajasthan is dining among the dunes in Jaisalmer.

“One of the Imperial Desert cities, Jaisalmer is a very unique place,” says Viren. “It used to be part of the Silk Road. Everything in the city is yellow in colour because of the local yellow sandstone. The honey-coloured Fort has actually got 2000 people living inside.”

It is in this city that you will experience a truly unique dinner as the sun sets over the sand dunes. A sumptuous nomadic banquet is served under the desert stars as local musicians play traditional tunes into the gentle breeze of the night. “You’re sitting under the stars and it’s quiet and suddenly you hear the sounds coming from the background and there’s a musician playing here,” says Viren. “It’s an unforgettable moment.”

 Read more about this experience: For Your Ears Only: Experience the Privilege of Private Live Music

No ask too great

Whilst following an expertly crafted itinerary, the tour allows plenty of time to tailor to your individual preferences. And your Travel Concierge is on hand to help with that in any way possible. “Some people choose to get up early to see sights not scheduled in the tour. I help with research, planning and arranging transport, there is nothing I do not know about the area. I also know the best spots that you may not find in a guidebook, for tailored experiences and special occasions.”

“I’m also your expert for dinner reservations and recommendations during your free time. If you like food with flavours, there’s there’s nothing better than India and the vegetarian food is wonderful.”

Hear from another Luxury Gold Travel Concierge: Cape expectations: how Travel Concierge Jameel makes South Africa sing

Elevating the everyday

“Every step of the way we look to do that extra something,” says Viren. “I really get to know my guests be able to shape ideas and suggestions. Through my expert knowledge and passion, both for India and for our guests, I elevate the every day.”

“I like to treat guests to local rum, as India is actually one of the best sugar cane producing countries. Guests are often surprised at how good it tastes and keen to try more. It is these pockets of local knowledge that make a big difference to their experience.”

“With many repeated guests who love and trust Luxury Gold, the challenging is to make everything even better than before!”

To indulge in the delights of luxury travel in India, take a look at our exquisite collection of small group journeys.

Oozing 1920’s glamour, the Hotel Esplanade Zagreb is a cultural historic icon of Croatia’s capital. The place to see and be seen, in the words of its General Manager Ivica Krizmanic, “If there’s one hotel in Croatia that everyone has heard about, it’s the Esplanade.”

We had the pleasure of speaking to Ivica, to learn more about what Luxury Gold guests can expect from a stay at the Esplanade, and discover what it is the secret to running such an exceptional hotel.

For travel inspiration: Croatia destination guide

Orient Express origins

“The reason why this caliber of hotel was first built in the city was due to the Orient Express, which was passing through Zagreb,” Ivica explains. “In the 1920s, it was necessary to have an exceptional five-star hotel to accommodate the train’s high-society passengers. The Esplanade hotel was built in two years, and it’s been something special from the first day it opened in 1925.”

Designed in the Art Deco style by architect Dionis Sunko the Hotel Esplanade Zagreb quickly became a symbol of luxury and elegance in the city. A full refurbishment in 2004 elevated the interiors and amenities to new heights. “We had a great architect and interior designer who ensured that the Esplanade spirit stayed intact,” says Ivica. “The design really blended together the history with the modern design from today’s era.”

Stay at the Esplanade Hotel Zagreb on Croatia & The Dalmatian Coast

It’s all about love and passion

“My father actually worked here before me, for 30 years. He’s the reason why I am here,” Ivica tells us. “In 1992, as a student, he asked me to help out. It was just for a month as a doorman, because they needed some extra staff, and that is where it all began. I was immediately in love with the hotel and have been here ever since.

“For me, the secret to running such an exceptional hotel is love and passion. This is something that it’s necessary to have for the Esplanade because the hotel deserves people who are dedicated to the Esplanade spirit. For all of us here, this is not just a hotel, this is more of an institution. So, for us to work here is something much bigger.

“The Esplanade is a synonym for luxury and good service. People widely connect the hotel with something special. Numerous times I have been in other establishments and have overheard people say (maybe in response to a complaint) ‘you know this is not the Esplanade, Sir.’ It sets the standard.”

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Exquisite rooms

With its 208 rooms and suites, offering stunning views of the city, keeping everything running perfectly at the hotel Esplanade Zagreb is no small task. When we ask how many staff Ivica is responsible for, he tells us that “I have some 170 colleagues depending on the time of year, but we try to do this business with a homely, family feeling. So, I consider it to be that I work for them.

“The rooms are designed in a sophisticated Art Deco style, with all the modern touches needed for today’s travelers. They are all very welcoming and cozy, to make you feel at home. We have marble bathrooms with heated floors, the perfect place to relax and unwind.”

Sumptuous beds, stunning city views and first-class room service complete the picture. Guests can also benefit from the hotel’s exclusive Health Club, offering a range of range of therapies to de-stress, replenish and revitalize.

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Exceptional dining

“I spend lot of time testing the food in the restaurants,” Ivica tells us, an important yet not undesirable part of his role as General Manager. From ‘high society-inspired dining to modern Mediterranean chic’ the Esplanade’s award-winning restaurants are worth a booking in their own right, with Executive Chef Ana Grgić Tomić at the helm.

Considered one of Zagreb’s finest, Zinfandel’s Restaurant combines the best local ingredients with a broad Mediterranean inspiration. “Here you can see a more Mediterranean style with modern food,” says Ivica, “with local specialties like sea bass baked in sea salt, Istrian truffles or steak tartar.”

Or for ‘seductive French cuisine’ Le Bistro celebrates a wide range of seasonal local produce, and also one particularly famous dish. “We have one signature dish – actually it’s a local specialty but this recipe is exclusive to the hotel – the legendary Esplanade Štrukli,” says Ivica. “It’s a baked pastry, made from thin sheets of dough, filled with fresh cottage cheese with cream. It’s sounds simple, but it’s very tasty and people really love it.”

“We change the menu in both restaurants three or four times a year, reflecting the seasons. You’ll see a mix of international cuisine, with influences from our neighbors. We’re surrounded by Italy and Austria, and obviously close to Bosnia and Herzegovina, which has a different culinary profile.”

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A treat for guests, from sunrise to sunset

The ultimate iteration of 1920’s decadence, the Oleander Terrace at the Esplanade offers stunning views across the city, and provides the perfect setting for some enjoyable people watching. A preferred spot for elegant breakfasts, high society lunching, and music and jazz evenings with a stylish Champagne bar. “To stay in the Esplanade Hotel and have a breakfast in the morning on the Oleander Terrace is considered something special,” says Ivica.

 “And in the evening, to relax, the place to be is definitely the Esplanade 1925 Lounge & Cocktail Bar for the signature cocktails.” Run by some of the best Croatia’s mixologists the bar offers an enticing range of cocktails dating back to the days of the 1920’s Flapper.

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The secret to exceptional service lies in the people

When staying at the Esplanade, each guest is treated as a VIP by attentive and professional staff. “To offer such exceptional service, we focus on finding the right people,” explains Ivica. “We are not necessarily focusing on hospitality experience as we wish to mold them in the Esplanade way – we look for someone with passion.

“Not only love and passion for guests and the hospitality industry, but people who have a connection with the hotel, are proud to work here and willing to do their part to justify our enduring reputation. This takes a special type of person.

“We also empower people to be brave enough to make the special service, to not be afraid to be spontaneous and try something new to satisfy our guests when required.”

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Royal guests and dignitaries

While no two days are the same when working in a hotel, some stand out as special for their own reasons. “We often host state leaders, presidents and royal family members,” says Ivica. “They’re always greeted by myself.

“One day I was waiting, with the Royal assistant, for a Queen and Prince in the lobby. They were attending a lunch at the Presidential Office and, as per protocol, timing was of the utmost importance.  As the Queen and the Prince stepped out of the elevator, we realized that the Prince and the Royal assistant were wearing the same tie. Definitely against protocol!

“There was no time for the Prince to return to the room and change. So, realizing what had happened and thinking quick I just took my tie and gave it to the to the royal assistant. I didn’t think much more of it, but when they came back to the hotel they were talking about the lunch and were saying how I saved the protocol. But it’s all in a day’s work at a hotel such as this.”

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The Esplanade Hotel Zagreb is part of the city

It is said that of Zagreb that ‘life is lived on the streets of the city itself, with public art, street food, and majestic green parks delighting locals and tourists alike in all four seasons.’ As well as being an enchanting Croatian walled city, one of the fabulous things about the capital city is that the region is lush with nature parks.

The Esplanade is perfectly placed to explore the city – just one more reason to select this iconic establishment when considering where to stay in Zagreb. Ivica tells us “it is an important part of Zagreb’s upper town.” One of Zagreb’s main attractions, the historic old town, Upper Town (Gornji Grad) is a myriad of cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Church. “Here you can feel really a special history. It’s so preserved that it’s still feels like 100 years ago.” Yet the city is credited as being young and playful at heart.

“Zagreb is a big and small city,” he continues. “Almost everything is within walking distance. So, it is very relaxing for the people to explore. There are a lot of small museums and interesting places, but nothing particular that you have to visit, that is what is so nice about it. It’s very romantic everywhere and there are a lot of coffee shops where people sit outside and watch the movie of life unfold around you.”

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A symbol of Croatia

“We’re proud to represent Zagreb to the world,” says Ivica. “But even more that we represent Croatia. There are a lot of nice hotels in this beautiful country, but there is only one hotel that everybody knows about. If you ask your taxi driver or whoever you meet which hotel is the best in in Croatia, even they have never been for themselves they will say The Esplanade. Even those not from this country.

“Every day is history, and every day is special. Each and every one of our guests are exceptional and make each day memorable. I’ve spent 31 years in the hotel, but every day I’ll see something new, I’ll never grow tired of the Esplanade.”

To experience the magic of the Hotel Esplanade, Zagreb for yourself and enjoy the ultimate Croatian vacation, take a look at our sensational Croatia & The Dalmatian Coast luxury tour.