One of the greatest highlights of any Luxury Gold tour is the VIP experiences. These exclusive, one-of-a-kind encounters allow you to travel like a VIP with private, after hours access to some of the world’s most iconic sites. Instead of waiting in line or jostling with crowds, you’ll go behind the scenes once the general public has gone home. Step beyond the velvet rope and meet Local Experts who will share fascinating insights on renowned landmarks. From Luxor Temple and the Tower of London to Doge’s Palace in Venice and the Rosengart Collection in Lucerne, here’s how to travel like a VIP with some of our most remarkable after hours experiences.

Read more: 5 benefits of visiting iconic tourist hotspots out of hours

Visit the Tower of London after hours for an exclusive Ceremony of the Keys

The Tower of London is impressive at any time, but it gets even more special when you visit after hours once the crowds have gone home. Luxury Gold guests will experience an exclusive, private tour of the Tower of London after dark. With the city lights glittering in the distance, a serving Yeoman Warder will greet you on arrival at this regal fortress. You’ll roam the grounds, hear the legends and stories of the iconic tower, and then witness the historic Ceremony of the Keys. This is the oldest practiced military ceremony in the world, carried out every night for the past 700 years, and you’ll have a front-row seat.

Discover it on: British Royale

Read more: Why Britain is an incredible destination for 2023

Travel like a VIP with after hours access to Luxor Temple in Egypt

The magnificent Luxor Temple is one of the most popular tourist hotspots in the world, so this after hours experience is extremely special. Luxury Gold guests enjoy exclusive VIP access to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, so you can explore this enormous temple in peace, without the crowds. This ancient site was one of the largest religious centers in ancient Egypt and even housed a village within its walls. You can marvel at the statues, obelisks, carvings and towering pillars, all at your own pace and without having to wait in line. It’s truly special to be able to soak up this ancient wonder of the world in such a private and intimate experience.

Discover this on: Elegance of the Nile

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

Explore Doge’s Palace in Venice after hours with a private tour

Venice is one of the most popular destinations in the world, drawing thousands of travelers each year. If you want to beat the crowds, you need to be a Luxury Gold guest. We’ll visit the breathtaking Doge’s Palace after hours with an exclusive tour with a local art historian. It’s a surreal feeling as you step behind the velvet ropes to marvel at the grand halls and Gold Staircase, with only a handful of your traveling companions for company. As a Gothic architectural masterpiece and an icon of Venice, this is an unforgettable experience. 

Discover this on: Ultimate Italy

Read more: Dine, Sleep, Do: How to spend a blissful 24 hours in Venice

Travel like a VIP with after hours access to Castle Howard in York

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If you’ve ever wanted exclusive access to an ancient castle, here’s your chance. When in York, we’ll get VIP access to explore Castle Howard after hours. Once the doors close to the general public, we’ll arrive for a guided tour of this 18th-century baroque mansion. You’ll have all the space and time to admire the spectacular architecture, including the Great Hall and ornate Chapel. There’s also an extensive collection of paintings, antiques, frescoes, and statues throughout the 145 rooms. The castle sits within 1,000 acres of lush parkland, woodlands, and manicured gardens. You might also like to roam through the beautiful lakes, fountains and monuments with one of the gardeners. 

Discover this on: Castles & Kingdoms

Read more: How Travel Concierge Michael Gives a Royal Welcome in the UK

Explore Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna with after hours access

The magnificent Schönbrunn Palace is one of Vienna’s most visited attractions, but you’ll have it all to yourself when you travel with Luxury Gold. We’ll get VIP after hours access to the palace for a private tour with an expert guide. Wander through the mirrored hall where Mozart made music as a six-year-old prodigy. Marvel at the ceiling frescoes, gilded stucco and crystal chandeliers of the Grand Gallery. Be sure to snap some fantastic photos without the crowds. You’ll also explore Melk Abbey, the impressive library, and the Paul Troger ceiling fresco, all while learning about the remarkable history. 

Discover this on: Harmony of Central Europe

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

Admire the Rosengart Collection in Lucerne with a private viewing

If you’ve visited renowned art galleries, you know it gets tiring lining up to get a glimpse of iconic pieces. When you’re a Luxury Gold guest, you’ll be invited to an exclusive after hours viewing of the acclaimed Rosengart Collection in Lucerne. The collection features over 300 works by 23 artists including Monet, Matisse, Picasso, Cézanne and Klee. You can take your time viewing each piece, with no pressure to move on quickly. Originally the private art collection of art dealer Siegfried Rosengart and his daughter Angela, this is a priceless experience. 

Discover this on: Majestic Switzerland

Read more: Roger Federer, Trevor Noah and the timeless beauty of Switzerland

Get exclusive after hours access to the Museum of Apoxyomenos in Lošinj

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Sail across the glittering Adriatic Sea to the Croatian island of Lošinj, and you’ll discover something quite extraordinary. Here the Museum of Apoxyomenos displays a beautifully-preserved, 2,000-year-old Greek bronze statue of an athlete. It was found on the nearby ocean floor and is now preserved and displayed in the museum. Luxury Gold guests get after hours access to view it with no one else around. You’ll hear the fascinating story of the statue and take your time soaking up all the other ancient treasures in the museum, in its tranquil after hours state. See this masterpiece firsthand on one of our luxury tours to Croatia.

Discover this on: Croatia & The Dalmatian Coast

Read more: Sun, Sand and Sequins: Why Summer is the Best Time to Visit These Glamorous Coastal Cities

Are you ready to travel like a VIP? Learn more about our Curated Experiences, from our exclusive Founder’s Collection to our VIP luxury travel experiences.

Crafted with love, skill and precision, classic cocktails have stood the test of time. Their allure lies in their balanced flavors and the artistry of mixology, and each has a story to tell. As you put the glass to your lips, you’re instantly transported to a bygone era of glamour and refinement. And to sip classic cocktails in some of the world’s most magnificent hotels just further elevates the experience.

To tantalize your palate and stir your wanderlust, we’ve selected some of our favorite classic cocktails, and paired them with some truly exquisite hotels.

Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is one of the oldest cocktails, dating back to the early 1800s. Exuding sophistication and simplicity, it embodies the essence of classic mixology with its straightforward, time-tested recipe.

The recipe typically calls for bourbon or rye whiskey, muddled sugar, aromatic bitters and a twist of citrus rind. Served over ice in a rocks glass, the Old Fashioned offers a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness, accentuated by the whiskey’s rich flavors.

There’s no better place to sit back and enjoy an Old fashioned than in the Southern United States, the birthplace of bourbon. And there’s no hotel quite like the Ritz Carlton in New Orleans.

Nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, the Ritz Carlton epitomizes Southern elegance and charm. And the hotel’s bars feature skilled mixologists whose attention to detail and the use of high-quality ingredients ensures that each cocktail is a work of art.

While you enjoy your Old Fashioned, bartenders will share stories about the history of classic cocktails and the role of New Orleans in their evolution. So sit back, enjoy and see why this iconic drink has stood the test of time.

Sip an Old Fashioned at the Ritz Carlton on: Southern Grace

Read more: Why New Orleans’ Ritz Carlton Hotel is a cut above the rest

Negroni

Originating in Florence, Italy, the Negroni is closely linked to the Italian aperitivo culture. Legend has it that the cocktail was invented in the early 20th century when Count Camillo Negroni asked a bartender to strengthen his Americano by adding gin.

Brandishing a brilliant red hue and bittersweet flavor profile, the Negroni offers a combination of herbal, citrusy and aromatic notes. Its simple yet bold composition, traditionally equal parts gin, Campari and sweet vermouth, creates a perfectly balanced aperitif.

To enjoy your Negroni in the perfect setting, head to the Hotel Montebello Splendid. Centrally located in the heart of Florence, this elegant five-star hotel occupies a charming 19th-century villa that exudes glamour and grandeur.

The hotel’s rooftop pool bar offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Florence’s skyline. Enjoy your Negroni while basking in the sun against a stunning backdrop of Florence’s iconic landmarks, such as the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio and the surrounding Tuscan hills.

Savor a Negroni at the Hotel Montebello Splendid on: Ultimate Italy

You might also be interested to read: Making it personal: How Travel Concierge Anna elevates your Italy experience

Sidecar

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While the exact origins of the Sidecar are somewhat disputed, the prevailing narrative credits its creation to Harry MacElhone, an American bartender who worked at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris.

According to the story, the Sidecar was allegedly invented around the end of World War I when a patron arrived at the bar in a motorcycle sidecar. The drink was then named after the vehicle. MacElhone is said to have refined the recipe, using Cognac or brandy, Cointreau, and lemon juice in equal parts, creating the classic Sidecar we know today.

A stunning Parisian setting to enjoy your Side Car, and other classic cocktails, is the St James. Paris’ only chateau hotel, this is an architectural jewel tucked away in the city’s most exclusive district, the 16th. Its bar is sumptuous, filled with greenery, wood paneling, cozy velvets and worn leathers. Renowned for its mixology, this is one of the ultimate meeting places in the city, for both Parisians and those from far flung places.

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Caipirinha

Refreshing and vibrant, the Caipirinha hails from Brazil and has become a very popular cocktail. It’s the national drink of Brazil and is deeply rooted in the country’s culture and traditions. Not only invigorating, it is hailed as one of the best classic cocktails for celebrating warm, sunny days.

The primary ingredient of a Caipirinha is cachaça, a Brazilian spirit made from sugarcane juice. Blended with lime and sugar, it is typically served over crushed ice. To prepare a Caipirinha, lime wedges are muddled with sugar in a glass, and then cachaça and ice are added. The result is a delightful balance of sweet, tart and boozy flavors. You can also enjoy numerous variations, with passion fruit or strawberries often used to mix it up.

@belmondcopacabanapalace

Where better to enjoy a glass that the Belmond Copacabana Palace in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Situated on the world-famous Copacabana Beach, the hotel has been an emblem of elegance and sophistication since its opening in 1923.

Its architecture reflects a blend of classical European style with touches of Brazilian charm, set behind an impressive façade. The interiors are adorned with exquisite furnishings and artwork. Relax, enjoy the sunshine and a Caipirinha, as numerous celebrities, politicians and dignitaries have done over the years.

Enjoy a Caipirinha at the Belmond Copacabana Palace on: Classic South America

 You may also like to read: 7 Luxury Gold hotels that have hosted royals, celebrities and more

Manhattan

While it has become a global icon, the Manhattan has strong associations with the bustling borough of New York City. And for the most iconic setting to enjoy this classic cocktail head to the Park Lane New York hotel, and its Darling rooftop lounge. Located on the 47th floor, the Darling offers a stunning backdrop of the Manhattan skyline and an elevated cocktail menu.

It is said that the key to a perfect Manhattan lies in finding the right balance between the whiskey’s richness and the sweetness of the vermouth. The traditional recipe adds a few dashes of aromatic bitters, and its usually garnished with a maraschino cherry or a twist of orange peel. Over the years, variations of the Manhattan have emerged, with some people preferring bourbon instead of rye whiskey, or opting for dry vermouth to create a drier version.

You may also like: Hiding in Plain Sight: Incredible Artworks You Can Discover at Luxury Gold Hotels

Martini

The Martini is one of the most iconic and enduring cocktails in the world of mixology. Made with gin and dry vermouth, stirred with ice, you’ll find it served in a chilled cocktail glass, garnished with a green olive or a twist of lemon peel.

A cocktail of strength and clarity, the exact origins of the Martini are somewhat debated. But historians believe that it evolved from a late 19th-century mix of gin and vermouth. Over the years, the Martini has inspired various interpretations and modifications. This has led to the creation of famous variations like the Vodka Martini, the Dirty Martini and the Gibson.

Literature, film, and popular culture have also celebrated the Martini. Most notably by James Bond, who famously ordered his martinis “shaken, not stirred.” More than worthy of a Bond moment, the Grand Hotel Quisisana on Italy’s Isle of Capri is an exquisite hotel in which to enjoy a sip of this classic cocktail.

5-star luxury in the heart of Capri town, the Quisisana is just a short walk from the famous Piazzetta. Surrounded by lush gardens and offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, it’s an enchanting retreat for the discerning traveler seeking elegance and relaxation.

Enjoy a Martini at the Quisisana Hotel on: Ultimate Italy

You may also enjoy: The Isle of Dreams: How to Spend the Perfect Day in Capri

Singapore Sling

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The origins of the Singapore Sling are associated with the Long Bar at the Raffles Hotel in Singapore. The cocktail was created by bartender Ngiam Tong Boon in the early 1900s, and quickly became a favorite among patrons. Today, the Singapore Sling remains a symbol of tropical indulgence and is enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world.

This elegant cocktail is made a gin base spirit, along with pineapple juice, lime juice, cointreau and cherry liqueur. Some versions also include Bénédictine, grenadine, and Angostura bitters. Reddish-pink, it is typically served over ice in a tall glass and garnished with a slice of pineapple and a maraschino cherry.

The Raffles Hotel Singapore is still one of the most iconic luxury hotels in Asia. And the Long Bar is still in service. Meaning you can still enjoy this historic cocktail in old-world grandeur, dreaming of days gone past.

To savor classic cocktails around the world, we invite you to take a look at our exquisite collection of small group luxury journeys.

Transparent ceilings, lie-flat beds, and dedicated wellbeing zones? Welcome to the future of air travel. As travelers are now expecting more comfort, entertainment, and sustainability on their flights, airlines are racing to develop the most innovative aircrafts – and they’re coming up with some extraordinary designs. We take a look at some of the best recent designs that are set to revolutionize air travel. 

Air New Zealand’s Skynest – Lie-flat beds in Economy

As flights get longer and seats get smaller, travelers are now more likely to favor the airlines that can provide the most comfortable travel experience. And Air New Zealand are listening. The progressive airline is redefining long-haul travel with the introduction of Skynest, offering lie-flat bunks to Economy-class passengers. If you’ve ever struggled to get some good shut-eye on your flight (haven’t we all?) this will be a welcome slice of luxury. 

Set to debut in 2024, the Crystal Cabin award-winning design aims to enhance the comfort of passengers on ultra-long-haul routes. They’ll fly on the non-stop services between Auckland and US cities like New York and Chicago, a grueling journey that takes around 17 hours.

Passengers can reserve a bunk in four-hour slots at a cost of around NZD$400-600 and each person will be limited to one session. The four-hour duration was chosen as it allows passengers to get some much-needed sleep while offering availability to more customers. 

The Skynest will have six full-length beds in pods, configured in a space-efficient V-shape to ensure privacy. The beds measure over 79 inches long and 23 inches in width at the shoulder area. Each pod will have sheets, a blanket, a full-size pillow, ear plugs, a personal USB outlet and reading light, and a ventilation outlet. The lights will gently come on at the end of the session, and if you sleep through it, the crew will be there to help you wake up. The bedding will be changed between each session. Each pod will also have a separate seatbelt so passengers can stay in the pod when the seat belt signs come on. Sounds like they’ve thought of everything!

Qantas’ Airbus A350s – Wellbeing zones and ergonomic seating

Qantas has also been listening to requests for more flying comfort. The airline’s newly unveiled Airbus 350s will fly nonstop from Sydney to New York and London starting late 2025, carrying 238 passengers on journeys spanning up to 22 hours. That sounds incredibly demanding, however, Qantas has been working to shake up long-haul travel. 

The design includes a first-of-its-kind Wellbeing Zone. Located between the Premium Economy and Economy cabins, the Wellbeing Zone features a hydration station and refreshments. There’s also on-screen exercise programs and sculpted wall panels with handles, so you can stretch and keep the blood flowing during the flight. 

There’s more good news for when you’re actually in the seats. They have the largest seat pitches of any Qantas aircraft, with a minimum of 33 inches of legroom in the Economy seats. There’s also ergonomic leg and footrest systems and plenty of storage. Every seat is outfitted with multiple USB-C charging ports, while Premium seats include integrated wireless charging. You’ll also find fast, free WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing passengers to connect their personal headsets to individual screens.

The First and Business cabins are taking luxury air travel to the next level. The First Class Suite is reminiscent of a boutique hotel room. It features a 2-meter flatbed, dining table, recliner chair, and a 32″ 4k ultra-high definition touch screen TV. Meanwhile, the 52 Business Suites offer sliding doors for privacy, lay-flat beds, large dining tables, and an 18″ 4k ultra-high definition touchscreen TV.

David Caon is the Australian designer behind the cabin layout. He worked to integrate world-first scientific research on jet lag reduction and wellbeing into the A350 design. All in all, the new aircraft will offer passengers a far more comfortable travel experience. 

Airbus’ Airspace Cabin Vision 2035+ – Transparent ceilings and sustainable cabins

While travelers are demanding more comfort in the air, they’re also expecting more sustainability when it comes to air travel. Aeroplanes have traditionally been a fuel-guzzling, carbon-emitting beast, however, sustainable air travel may be closer than we think with Airbus’ new Airspace Cabin Vision 2035+. 

Research shows the cabin contributes to an estimated 10-20% of an aircraft’s overall environmental footprint. Airbus plans to utilize bionic design principles to reduce cabin weight by 40%. This would also significantly lower fuel consumption and emissions. Airbus’ commitment to “rethink, recycle, repair and re-use” extends to all components. Everything from seats and lining to galleys can be created with bio-based fabrics, recycled polymers, and 3D printing technologies.

The most eye-catching feature is the cabin’s transparent ceilings. No matter where you’re sitting, all passengers will enjoy a spectacular view of the sky and stars above. They’ve also taken inspiration from older eras of air travel. Passengers on short flights can collect pre-ordered meals at the boarding gate. This means galleys can be reduced or even eliminated altogether for some flights. The groundbreaking design signals a significant shift towards a more sustainable and efficient aviation industry. 

Airbus has partnered with multiple technology companies and different airlines, including Lufthansa and Delta, to make this all a reality. Changes to the existing Airbus cabin will begin this year, and they’re aiming to take to the skies by 2035.