Mountain summits, lakeside forests, sculptural desert rock forms, luminous lagoons… the world is full of wonders to nourish the eye. But where to start? You could form a whole separate bucket list of the most beautiful places in the world, before you begin to break that beauty down by scenery, nature, manmade forms and wildlife. Some landscapes are just pleasing to the eye, and must be protected at all costs; tread lightly when visiting these exceptionally beautiful spots across the globe.

The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Famously up there with the most beautiful places in the world, the world’s largest coral reef system gleams a neon turquoise. Sailing around and landing on its islands, you’ll see white sand beaches and spot turtles, clownfish and giant clams on snorkels. Visit on Luxury Gold’s Inspiring Australia tour.

The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Machu Picchu, Peru

Set 7,972 feet above sea level in the Andes Mountains, this mysterious citadel is not just one of the most beautiful places in the world, it’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Reached at the end of an epic hike – or a scenic train ride – the classic view of the city is from the Guardian’s House. Take the train option on Luxury Gold’s Treasures of the Incas tour.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Pamukkale, Turkey

This western Turkish town is famous for its natural white travertine terraces, their scoops of natural pools filled by nourishing hot springs. Their gleaming white frame makes the pools an exquisite, luminous ice-blue. Visit on a day-trip from Marmaris or Dalaman on the coast.

Pamukkale’s travertine terraces, Turkey

Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

Enormous and pillar-like, there’s something uncanny about these vast baobab trees, some of which are over 800 years old and over 98ft tall. Often photographed silhouetted against a fiery Madagascan sunset, they’re found on the road between Morondava and Belon’i Tsiribihina.

Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

Fiordland, South Island, New Zealand

Another country that pops up on list of the most beautiful places in the world is New Zealand. Peaceful, uninterrupted nature sprawls across much of its South Island, but most famous is Milford Sound, a shimmering fiord backed by peaks and waterfalls in the Fiordland region. On Luxury Gold’s tour, you’ll visit lesser-known but just as ravishing neighbour, Doubtful Sound, on an overnight cruise.

Milford Sound, New Zealand

Bagan, Myanmar

This ancient city and Unesco World Heritage Site is an arresting mix of stupa-topped temples and dense forest, often seen in magical mists. There are more than 3,500 temples and pagodas here, some dating back 800 years and many eerily overgrown with mossy foliage.

Temples in Bagan, Myanmar

Redwood National and State Parks, California, USA

California’s towering redwood trees are one for the bucket list: this west coast state’s hiking trails and national parks are some of the most beautiful places in the world, let alone in North America. Home to the world’s tallest trees – some more than 370ft high – these forest dwarf their visitors and emphasize the sheer force of nature.

Redwood National and State Parks, California

Okavango Delta, Botswana

One of the few wetlands systems that does not flow into a sea or ocean, this complex inland waterway is a honeypot for incredible wildlife, with little human development to spoil the view. Visit during the dry season to see elephants, leopards, lions, buffalo and over 560 bird species.

Okavango Delta, Botswana

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Japan

Close to Kyoto, this dense forest of light-filtering bamboo is a restorative place to spend an afternoon. Hiking trails through the tall, thin stems, you’ll feel an immense sense of peace, before exploring the nearby Togetsukyo Bridge and temples in Sagano.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Japan

Petra, Jordan

Rose-gold pillars and ornate panels carved into sheer rock face, this desert city in the ancient kingdom of Jordan is a must-see on your travels. Built by the Nabatean civilisation over 2,000 years ago, it looks like a scene from a sci-fi film set on another planet; visit at night to see it illuminated by hundreds of candles.

The ancient city of Petra, Jordan

Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe

Known for the rainbows that float above their crashing mists, these vast waterfalls form a natural border between these two African countries on the Zambezi River. Take the path along the edge to be misted with spray and hear the roar which gave them the local name Mosi-oa-Tunya – “The Smoke that Thunders”.

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Maranhão, Brazil

A protected swathe of land in northeastern Brazil, this national park has surreal sand dunes cradling turquoise lagoons. A Unesco world heritage site and one of the less obvious of our most beautiful places in the world, its white sand against bright water has an otherworldly beauty to it.

Dunes at Lençois Maranhenses National Park

Rocky Mountains, Canada/USA

These dramatic mountain peaks cut down through North America from Canada well into the United States, a series of craggy charcoal mountains swathed in handsome evergreen forest. Banff National Park is one of the most gorgeous spots; while the Rocky Mountaineer train, travelling through the area, is a bucket list favourite. See the best of the area on Luxury Gold’s Majesty of the Rockies tour.

Sunset in Banff National Park, Canada

Yuanyang Rice Terraces, China

There are around 17,000 hectares of gently shelving rice paddies in this area of Yunnan, China, prompting intrepid visitors to come from far and wide for the local hiking trails and photography opportunities. Part of the UNESCO-recognised Honghe Hani Rice Terraces area, they’re not just one of the most beautiful places in the world, they’re one of the oldest continually-farmed areas anywhere, using the same methods for centuries.

Mount Teide, Tenerife

The highest mountain in Spain sits on the dramatic, volcanic Canary Island of Tenerife. A striking, Mars-like terrain of crumbling black rock and lava forms, it’s also a great place to go stargazing, with some of the clearest skies in Europe. Take the challenging hike or catch the cable car up to the summit.

Blue Lagoon, Iceland

This Nordic country is home to more than 20 hot springs and geothermal pools, but this most famous turquoise lagoon is known for its luminous powder-blue waters, mystical clouds of steam and black rocky surrounds. Geothermal heat warms the water to a comfy 99-102 Fahrenheit, creating a natural hot tub with otherworldly views all around.

Sossusvlei, Namibia

A spectacular, barren landscape, Sossusvlei contains both enormous, rust-red sand dunes and flat, white salt pans that make it one of the most beautiful places in the world. It’s part of the Namib Desert, with curious plant and wildlife that have adapted to the extreme, arid conditions. You can camp at a luxury tented camp in the area, or fly over the landscape by hot air balloon.

The Pitons, St Lucia

These lush, emerald twin mountain peaks are the gateway to dense forest, cocoa plantations and exotic wildlife on this – perhaps the prettiest of all Caribbean islands. You can see their majesty from many a luxury resort or white sand beach in the area, but the brave choose to climb them at sunrise, or hike around their foot trails.

Trans-Bhutan Trail, Bhutan

Of all of the world’s most naturally-blessed hiking trails, this might be the ultimate. Winding through the cut-off-from-the-world Asian country of Bhutan, the 403km route dates back to the 16th century, but is only just opening up to global tourists. You’ll see rice paddies, huge Buddha statues, incredible mountainside temples and villages with fluttering prayer flags along the way.

St Moritz, Switzerland

Views of the Swiss Alps from the Alpine towns of St Moritz and Zermatt are unparalleled. Expect snow-capped mountain peaks, mirror-smooth lakes, fairytale evergreen forests and more from one of the most beautiful places in the world. To see these areas and ride the sought-after Glacier Express train, visit on Luxury’s Gold’s Majestic Switzerland tour.

St. Moritz at dusk

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

With enormous limestone karsts rising up from tranquil waters like the humps of a sea monster, this bay in northeast Vietnam is one of the most sought-after sights in Southeast Asia. Vietnam’s traditional wooden junks and overnight tourist cruises ply the waters, passing white beaches and turquoise lagoon – visit on Luxury Gold’s Inspiring Indochina tour.

Serene Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Geirangerfjord, Norway

Norway’s fjords are a soothing prospect: vast and unspoiled, their towering, mossy cliffs lead to pure forest and snow-capped heights. This Unesco World Heritage Site might be the most fairytale-perfect, with skyscraper-tall waterfalls and tiny, elfin cottages trimming its shores. Visit on Luxury Gold’s Timeless Scandinavia tour.

Geraingerfjord is Norway’s largest fjord

Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s carefully protected interior is known for its complex ecosystems – in Monteverde, you’ll find over 2,500 species of plant and more than 500 types of orchid alone, not to mention 30 species of hummingbird and sloths, toucans and golden toads. Strolling along suspended walkways through the treetops is a magical experience.

Colorful toucan in Costa Rica

Table Mountain, South Africa

South Africa is packed with incredible vistas, from its wave-lashed coastline (where whales and sharks can be seen from above) to the dense green pastures of its Cape Winelands, and idyllic Garden Route beaches. Table Mountain is the must-see for visitors to Cape Town, with panoramic views over the city’s skirts and a “tablecloth” of mist and cloud often draped over its heights. Visit on Luxury Gold’s Spectacular South Africa tour.

Table Mountain’s “tablecloth” of mist

Monument Valley, USA

There’s a lunar-like quality to this dry, nature-sculpted valley on the border of Arizona and Utah; but rendered in fierce Martian reds. Huge sandstone buttes and mesas are the “monuments” here, where hiking trails, sunset tours and Navajo heritage tours best showcase one of the most beautiful places in the world. 

Monument Valley, magical even at night

Iguassu Falls, Argentina

It’s hard to get your head around the sheer scale of these powerful, semicircular falls, thundering down from 80m at their highest. Dividing Argentina and Brazil, and visited in protected parks either side of the border, the area is also a honeypot of great wildlife: tapirs, howler monkeys, caimans and even jaguars. Visit on Luxury Gold’s Grand South America tour.

Iguassu Falls, on the Brazil/Argentina border

Scottish Highlands, UK

Not all beautiful locations are sun-soaked and tropical – many come in frostier, mistier forms. Take Scotland’s remote, rambling Highlands, where you might visit the enchanting Loch Lomond, see coastal castles crumbling into the sea, spot a stag on heathery heathland or visit a far-flung whisky distillery on a tiny island.

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scottish Highlands

Jaipur, India

Known as the “Pink City”,  Rajasthan state’s rose-tinted capital is packed with some of India’s loveliest architecture. Alongside the ornately decorated, 18th-century City Palace, there are forts, temples and bazzars to explore – visit on Luxury Gold’s Essence of India tour.

The Pink Palace, Jaipur

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

This South Pacific nation is about as paradisiacal as paradise gets, but Bora Bora is the real pin-up. White sand beaches, thatched bungalows on stilts in neon bright lagoons, looming, forested island and some of the world’s best reefs to snorkel and dive mean it’s a magnet for super-luxurious resorts.

Palm trees on French Polynesia

Wulingyuan, China

Another Unesco World Heritage Site, this area of Hunan Province is famous for its natural sandstone pillars and slim mountain peaks, rising out of misty, remote countryside. It inspired film director James Cameron’s “floating islands” in the movie Avatar, and intrepid tourists still visit to see its dizzying cliffside walkways, local caves and waterfalls.

The limestone karst towers of Wulingyuan, China

Serene surroundings adorned with elegant decor, soothing sounds of water, and the gentle aroma of essential oils – that can only be a luxury spa.  But how do you make the most of your visit? And what treatments do you try? To find out the spa secrets to make the most of your visit, we spoke to Joanna Moran, Director of Spa and Wellness at Ashford Castle.

Luxury Gold guests visit this sensational 5 star hotel on our Castles & Kingdoms, and Ultimate Ireland small group journeys. Not only home to one of Ireland’s most prestigious spas, the  castle features elegant rooms, fine dining, and a range of activities including falconry and golf.

Discover this on: Castles & Kingdoms and Ultimate Ireland

The Secret to a Great Luxury Spa

Joanna Moran, Director of Spa and Wellness at Ashford Castle has worked in the industry for over 20 years.

“A great luxury spa is a place where you can truly relax and rejuvenate, it’s a sanctuary, ”Joanna explains when asked her spa secrets. “It is somewhere you can immerse yourself in a transformative journey of well-being, whilst being nurtured and nourished by beautiful surroundings and high-quality treatments.”

“At the heart of a great luxury spa lies exceptional service, with highly trained staff ensuring a unique and tailored experience for every guest. Having a dining menu available that complements the spa’s wellness philosophy is also a great way for guests to finish of a day of pampering.”

You may also enjoy reading: A Haven of Tranquillity: Discovering the Best Luxury Spas in Japan

Four Hands are Better Than Two

“The most incredible spa treatment I ever had was in Ananda in The Himalayas where I experienced their exclusive Four-Handed Abhyanga Massage,” she tells us.

“This ancient Ayurvedic massage involves two therapists working in perfect harmony, using synchronized movements. The result is a deeply relaxing and profoundly rejuvenating experience. Even with all my experience in the wellness industry I was impressed, this is definitely a spa secret worth sharing!

“The massage comes with significant mental and emotional benefits too. The synchronized, rhythmic movements help to release accumulated stress and tension, giving a feeling of inner peace and rejuvenation.”

Bookmark for later: Ayurveda to Onsen: These Wellness Practices Have Stood the Test of Time

Try The Big Freeze

Whilst the main aim of a spa is of course relaxation, that doesn’t mean that you can’t step a little out of your comfort zone and try something new. The jacuzzi, sauna and steam room offer a familiar comfort, but there’s much more on the menu these days.

“I highly recommend ice baths, I’ve tried them and they’re transformational,” says Joanna, “with so many benefits, both physical and mental, they are the best spa secret if you’ve not yet tried one. The cold temperature can help reduce inflammation and muscle soreness. They also help to flush out metabolic waste from the muscles and boost the immune system.

“What I love about though are the mental and emotional benefits. The experience of enduring cold water stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” hormones, which make you feel fantastic.”

If you like wellbeing you may also enjoy reading: 100% Meaningful, 100% Memorable: Why Every Luxury Gold Journey Matters

Reach for the Hot Cups

“Hot cupping is another therapy that I really love and encourage everyone to try,” says Joanna, explaining that hot cupping is an ancient therapy with roots in traditional Chinese medicine.

“It’s been used for thousands of years to promote healing and balance in the body. The process involves placing heated cups on the skin to create a vacuum, which draws the skin and underlying tissues upward into the cup. It’s believed to stimulate the flow of energy, or “qi,” and aid in overall wellness.

“One of the primary benefits that I have experiences is its ability to relieve pain and relax muscles. The suction and heat from the cups help to increase blood flow to the affected areas. It really is very effective especially when used in conjunction with acupuncture and massage therapy.”

You may also be interested to read: How You Can Stay in Europe’s Finest Private Castles

My Bucket List Spa

Guests at Six Senses take part in a Cacao ceremony: Photo credit: @sixsenses.ibiza on Instagram

“The Spa at Six Senses Ibiza is certainly one that stands out on my bucket list,” says Joanna, sharing more spa secrets. “It offers a holistic approach to wellness, focusing on mind, body and spirit, and it is renowned for its combination of cutting-edge therapies and traditional healing practices. This comprehensive approach to well-being is something I find incredibly appealing and beneficial for achieving overall balance and rejuvenation.”

Located on the picturesque northern tip of Ibiza, Six Senses offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea – the idyllic setting alone makes it a desirable destination.

“This spa offers a level of exclusivity and personalized attention that sets it apart,” she continues. “With a limited number of guests at any time, they ensure that each visitor receives individualized care and bespoke treatments. This personalized approach is something I deeply appreciate, as it enhances the overall spa experience.”

A must read for luxury hotel lovers: Experience Remote Luxury at These Extraordinary Hotels

A Day at Ashford Castle Spa

Photo credit: @ashfordcastle on Instagram

A highlight of your stay at the magnificent Ashford Castle, under Joanna’s careful eye the Spa and Wellness Centre offers an experience second to none. Located in County Mayo, Ireland, this 13th-century castle was once the ancestral home of the Guinness family and has been meticulously restored to offer an opulent retreat. Surrounded by 350 acres of lush grounds, guests can explore extensive gardens, woodlands and Lough Corrib.

“If you were to spend a day with us at Ashford Castle spa I would advise you to begin by indulging in our luxurious Ashford Castle Ritual,” says Joanna. “This is our signature spa treatment and combines a soothing back massage with warm aromatherapy oils, a relaxing foot massage, and a mini spa facial for an instant glow.

“Then you can spend time in our lavish steam room, to detoxify and relax your muscles, and open your pores. Follow this with a refreshing dip in our heated indoor pool with stunning views of the castle grounds, then, after your treatment, retreat to our Relaxation Room to enjoy fresh, healthy nibbles and soak up the ambiance of the spa and the beautiful Ashford Castle estate. We’d love for you to come an experience true relaxation and rejuvenation with us.”

You may also be interested to read: How Luxury Gold Journeys Go Above and Beyond with Expert Karen Gower

Joanna’s Top Tips to Make the Most of Your Luxury Spa Experience:

Photo credit: @ashfordcastle on Instagram

Before your visit: choose treatments which best suit your needs and preferences. Booking in advance is always a good idea so that you can get your preferred time and treatment.

Arrive on time: Arriving at least 30 minutes before your appointment allows you to check in, change into your robe and slippers, and start unwinding in the pool or thermal relaxation areas. This sets a calm tone for your entire visit.

Share your preferences with staff: Whether it’s the pressure of a massage, the temperature of the room, or any allergies, clear communication ensures a personalized and comfortable experience.

Turn off your phone: or leave it in a locker to fully immerse yourself in the serene environment. Disconnecting from technology helps you to relax and be present in the moment.

Drink plenty of water before and after your treatments to stay hydrated, especially if you plan to use saunas or steam rooms. Many spas offer healthy snacks and beverages, so take advantage of these to keep your energy levels up.

Don’t rush through your spa day. Allow yourself to linger in the relaxation lounges, enjoy the amenities like relaxation pool and steam room and savor the experience fully.

Post-treatment care is crucial for maximizing the benefits of your spa treatments. Follow any aftercare instructions provided by your therapist, such as avoiding direct sunlight after a facial or staying hydrated after a massage.

Remember to reflect on your experience. Enjoy a cup of herbal tea, sit quietly in the relaxation lounge, and let the feeling of relaxation and rejuvenation sink in before you return to the outside world.

To experience the luxury of Ashford Castle for yourself take a look at our Castles & Kingdoms and Ultimate Ireland small group journeys.

Ever wondered about those special ingredients that go into creating a Luxury Gold tour? From selecting the most appealing destinations, finding exceptional hotels and exclusive experiences, to thinking of every moment that weaves your journey together, it takes a special person to make such a special journey. Combining expertise with passion and dedication, we spoke to tour planner Karen Gower, to find out more.

For travel inspiration take a look at our collection of small group journeys

First and Foremost, I Think Like a Guest

Karen joined Luxury Gold at its inception over ten years ago, initially as a Travel Concierge before taking on the role of Travel Experiences Manager Europe in 2024. “I fell in love with the product, and it’s been my life ever since,” she says with pride.

“I don’t think that there’s anybody in the company that has had the privilege to get to know as many Luxury Gold guests as I have personally. Eating with them, spending time with them and walking them through itineraries. So, I’m able to put myself in their shoes.

“I ensure this personal touch permeates throughout a Luxury Gold itinerary, a true understanding of who the guest is and what their expectations are. And it’s of course all cemented together by your Travel Concierge, the master of ceremonies at the helm of every journey.”

You may also be interested to read: The 7 secret skills of every Luxury Gold Travel Concierge

Tailoring Each Journey, Your Travel Concierge

“I encourage each Travel Concierge to carefully consider each guest as an individual,” says Karen, “making a note of their interests and what excites them. Through this they can look for how we can make their trip personal to them. It is the little extras that make the difference, small, noticeable touches can affect a guest’s time with us and make their trip extra special.

“The other thing that is so important to our guests is not to have to think while they are with us. We take care of everything they need and think of everything they haven’t even thought of. You leave your luggage for the porter, and it magically appears in your next hotel room. We take care of special diets, so guests don’t have to explain every time to a restaurant. It is a seamless way to travel, you are even picked up from home and taken to the airport.”

Meet one of our exceptional Travel Concierges: How Travel Concierge Elena Makes Italy Sparkle

Luxury Takes Many Forms

When creating new itineraries and experiences, Karen tells us she focuses on the unexpected. “I’m always looking for something that’s a bit different, something that guests wouldn’t do on their own,” she says.

“That’s the benefit of traveling with Luxury Gold. We show you things that you wouldn’t otherwise come across, such as that little local bakery behind the hotel that sells the most exquisite pastries, but nobody writes about because its local.”

“Authenticity is also a luxury. For example, it might not be appropriate to have a fine dining experience, if that’s not the local food. But the opportunity to dine on traditional local fare at a small local restaurant, tasting traditional recipes and the local wine is a truly exceptional experience.

Bookmark for later: 10 of the World’s Best Luxury Resorts to Stay at This Year

Connection and Passion are Key

“We hear a lot from guests about how much they love contact with local people,” Karen says. “Passionate local people with a story to tell. Maybe they’re preserving their cultural heritage or sharing their cooking skills. This is a luxury when you explore new places. Everyone can tick things off their bucket list, but you never forget that personal contact and that passion that somebody has shown for something that you might not have even known about.”

“The traditional Moll farm that we visit in Norway on Timeless Scandinavia is a great example,” she tells us of one of our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences, adding that nobody would ever go up there without us knowing about it. “We meet the owner whose family has been there for generations and are invited into her home. She sings to our guests, gives them the apple cake made from their apples by the local bakery makes and talks about the historic paintings that she’s got in the rooms of her house. She tells us the significance of her home and how she’s preserving a way of life. That is so important, and it is probably not mentioned in any of the guidebooks.”

Discover this on: Timeless Scandinavia

We’re The Envy of Other Travelers

“Luxury also means exclusivity, which I weave this into every Luxury Gold journey” explains Karen, citing the after-hours VIP visit to Doges Palace in Venice as an example, a highlight of our Ultimate Italy itinerary. “Like a film star, you cruise down the Grand Canal in a water taxi past the spectacular buildings. Its towards the end of the day so most tourists have gone home. We meet our Local Expert, Silvia in Saint Mark’s Square and make our way over to the old doors of the palace which swing open, just for us, which is incredible.

“Often there will be a few people in the square who will approach because they think the palace is opening, and we have to say “I’m really sorry, we’d love to help but we have a Luxury Gold private tour, and then we waltz into the palace!

“It’s an exclusive moment to the extent that in on massive room, you stop in one corner and jump slightly on the floor and, because all of Venice is floating, you can actually feel the floor moving, which is something you couldn’t do if it were open to the public. So that is an incredible experience.”

Of course, exclusivity and authenticity don’t mean that any big moments are missed. “On all of our journeys you will see the big experiences you would expect of the location,” says Karen. “We ride the Glacier Express on Majestic Switzerland and enjoy a VIP after-hours visit to the Tower of London on British Royale.

Discover this on: Majestic Switzerland and British Royale 

You may also be interested to read: After Hours: Travel Like a VIP With These Exclusive Experiences

Sustainability is at the Core of Every Journey

“For Luxury Gold, and all our sister brands at The Travel Corporation, responsible travel is a core base of our journeys,” Karen says. “The goal of our How We Tread Right sustainability strategy is to include a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience on at least 50% of itineraries by 2025, but we’re proud to say we have already surpassed this. Every journey has at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, with some tours featuring many more.

“These experiences give something back and leave a positive impact on the places we visit. They also offer exclusive opportunities to meet some amazing people We also responsibly source all hotels and experiences, ensuring our impact is positive everywhere we go.”

Karen cites meeting Tracey from Tracey’s Farmhouse on Ultimate Ireland as a highlight for guests and in Perugia, Italy, “fourth generation weaver Marta who we meet on Ultimate Italy has an incredible story to tell about preserving her craft, and is an amazing person who our guests just fall in love with.”

Read more about our commitment to responsible travel: 100% Meaningful, 100% Memorable: Why Every Luxury Gold Journey Matters

Time to Enjoy, and Time to Personalize

“When planning a tour, it is very important to keep the pace of the tour in mind at all times,” Karen explains. “With Luxury Gold we’re aiming to cover everything, but make sure that the guests don’t feel rushed or indeed too tired. Afterall time is the ultimate luxury.

“Personalization and Luxury Gold go hand in hand, and true to that a key feature of our journeys is that guests have enough free time to be able to tailor their tours. Our expert Travel Concierge’s are on hand to assist with recommendations, be that for dining, excursions or just a special moment. It’s a more personal service because there are a maximum 24, average of 18 guests on our luxury small group tours. In their free time, guests might be looking to continue with sightseeing, or simply to rest and enjoy the amenities of our fabulous hotels. They may have a spa treatment booked by their Travel Concierge or wish to join them in a surprise little extra walk or talk.”

 You may also be interested to read: How Travel Concierge Shona Goes Above and Beyond

Our Collection of Luxury Gold Hotels

With these carefully selected properties a hallmark of Luxury Gold journeys, Karen tells us “We definitely favor two or three nights stays on our itineraries,” adding that exceptionally there are some one-night stays when it is a comfort stop in order to avoid an overly long or tiring travel day. “Each tour fits together like a puzzle. It’s a synergy – the sum of the whole greater than each of its parts and a crucial part of that puzzle are the hotels,” she says.

Ranging from heritage properties, boutique city stays to extravagant castles and rural properties with sensational views, Luxury Gold hotels are a destination in themselves. Karen explains that a great deal of thought and care goes into their selection, with each looking to “add something extra to every itinerary.”

“As a rule, our hotels are five-star when available, and always in a great location,” she says, explaining that if 5 star is not available, as in some more rural locations, a high-end four star will be sourced and usually with upgraded rooms. “For example, the Hotel Union overlooking Norway’s sensational Geirangerfjord is a 4-star hotel, with its fjord view rooms offering the most breathtaking views you won’t want to leave – pictures just don’t do it justice.”

“Each property is considered on a case-by-case basis, and from a personal view. Generally, a central location is preferable to somewhere on the outside of the city, but if the quality of the hotel warrants being slightly outside and doesn’t put our guests at any disadvantage, I would choose the better property. Guests also need to be able to go out and about easily. But superior quality is always front of mind.”

Learn more about this sensational hotel: How to Spend 48 Hours in One of Norway’s Most Scenic Hotels

Exceptional Dining Binds Each Journey

Who can talk about guided touring without talking about dining? Offering a chance to taste the flavors of a region, guests can learn about history through food, connecting with each other and the locals.

“These are the moments that bring everyone together,” says Karen. “Guests often underestimate the friendships they will make on a tour. I often hear from those who have decided to travel together in the future, or who visit each other when they return home. They most certainly start as strangers and finish as friends, and dining is a key part of that.”

Michelin Star and acclaimed restaurants of course lead the way. But more than sitting down for meals, join expert locals on foodie street tours, learn to cook, enjoy winery picnics and breakfast in bed.

“Our cooking classes are often underrated by guests, until they try one,” says Karen with a smile. “Especially those of our guests that don’t usually do a lot of cooking!”

“The class on Ultimate Italy takes place in an old hunting lodge of the Medici family, in the middle of the vineyards and Alessio is our chef is incredible. You’re looking out of these huge windows across rolling hillsides and vines as you’re making your pasta. I mean, there can’t be anything that’s more typically Italian yet so intimate.”

Discover this on: Ultimate Italy

Bookmark for later: 7 ways you’ll celebrate Tuscan food when you travel with Luxury Gold

One Eye Always on the Future

“There are so many pinch me moments in this job,” says Karen, adding that she is happily never really off duty. “Even when I’m on my own holiday I’m always looking for inspiration for our journeys. My daughters often travel with me but are wise to my motives – they often ask if I will be taking my guests there.”

“I’m always looking at roads to see if coaches can get down them, where they would stop and the impression new destinations would have on guests. If I walk into a fabulous restaurant my mind would be racing to see if I can design a new itinerary in order to go there!

“Designing a new itinerary is a little bit like going shopping. I am looking for a Michelin dinner, a series of 5-star hotels, a VIP experience, something cultural or part of the local heritage. I then put it all in my basket and make sure that it fits together in a comfortable, balanced and luxurious way, showcasing the best that destination has to offer.”

To experience just how special a Luxury Gold tour is for yourself, take a look at our worldwide collection of small group journeys