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21 of the most romantic anniversary trip ideas

August 27, 2024 by Jess Williamson No Comments
couple overlooking sacred valley peru

Does 2025 mark a big milestone for you and your partner? If you’re searching for anniversary trip ideas to make sure you properly mark the occasion, you’re in the right place – whether you’re looking to spoil them with a luxurious weekend away or take the trip of a lifetime together, we’ve rounded up 21 locations that will help you feel the love wherever you are.  

Read on to discover the best anniversary vacation ideas for your next romantic trip away, from eco-retreats to wineries, secluded coasts and pristine beaches. 

 

Romantic anniversary trip ideas for 2025

 

Italy 

couple in open top car in Capri

Speak the language of love as you immerse yourselves in the sights, sounds and tastes of Italy on our Ultimate Italy journey. Across 12 unforgettable days, you’ll get behind-the-scenes access at some of Italy’s most incredible locations, celebrating your anniversary with some of the finest Italian food. Get a little zesty with lemon granita and a meal at the Michelin-starred Le Monzù in Capri, sample local wine with vineyard owners, and savor decadent gelato with a World Champion Gelato maestro. Taste truffle-infused cured meats and olive oils in Umbria, and even learn how to roll pasta by hand with a professional Italian chef in Tuscany. You’ll take home memories of delicious meals shared, and maybe a tip or two on how to recreate the Italian magic at home. 

Experience it on: Ultimate Italy

 

England 

stratford upon avon house

Many a romantic story has been set in England, likely because the country’s charm has a certain quaintness about it. Perhaps it’s the winding country roads, architecture steeped in history, or the prestige of the Royal Family. On our British Royale journey, you’ll even visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Let the “marriage of true minds” meet in Stratford-upon-Avon as you visit the bard’s home, and amble through the Tudor cottages and medieval buildings that line the cobbled streets. Continue your next chapter in the Lake District, where you’ll stay in the five-star Grand Hotel & Spa. 

Experience it on: British Royale

 

France 

Carcassonne castle hotel

When it comes to anniversary trip ideas Paris is always up at the top, why not make 2025 the year you explore outside of the French capital? On Luxury Gold’s Ultimate Southern France tour, you’ll spend your romantic vacation soaking up the 1950s glamour of St. Tropez as you dine at La Magdeleine for a Michelin Star meal. From private concerts to accompany dinner to a chauffeur-driven ride in a vintage car through the countryside to an acclaimed winery for a private tour, and even stay in a luxurious hotel built within the medieval walls of Carcassonne. France knows how to do romance wherever you are in the country, and with Luxury Gold you’ll see it all. 

Experience it on: Ultimate Southern France

 

Red Rock, Arizona

Red rock arizona

Imagine an anniversary trip filled with hot air balloons, hiking, and unforgettable natural beauty. If that sounds like the way you want to spend your romantic holiday, then head to Red Rock national park, Arizona. You can see the namesake geology either on horseback, on foot, or on a hot air balloon ride (which has to be the frontrunner if you’re looking to make an impression). Let nature do the talking as you watch the sun set over these incredible rock formations. 

Related reading: The 30 Most Beautiful Places in the World You Need to Visit

 

Fiji 

fiji island resort

Treat your partner to the beach vacation of dreams with a romantic trip to Fiji, a tropical island paradise. You can let your worries float away amidst the beautiful beaches, private island resorts, award-winning hotels and sensational cuisine. There are ample opportunities to create memories on these islands, from a beach picnic to scenic flights over the archipelago, or venturing out to swim beneath the waterfalls. 

 

Prague 

prague charles bridge

Perhaps not top of the list of anniversary trip ideas, Prague shouldn’t be overlooked – the City of Spires, is one of the most beautiful places in Europe. Dive into its history as you begin Luxury Gold’s Harmony of Central Europe tour in the capital of the Czech Republic, immersing yourself in the architecture and atmosphere of Prague Castle as a Local Expert takes you through its thousand-year history. Head back to your hotel, the ornately-decorated Neo-Renaissance NH Collection Prague Carlo IV or take a romantic moment across the iconic Charles Bridge, where countless proposals have taken place. 

Experience it on: Harmony of Central Europe

 

Hawaii 

view from hawaii mountain

Forget about choosing between beachside relaxation, lush natural landscapes, and active adventures – an anniversary trip to Hawaii has it all. Embrace your adventurous side together with a trip to the active Kīlauea volcano, or seclude yourself in a luxury hotel with a private pool. Have romantic dinners by the ocean, take a boat out at sunset, and relax in one of Big Island’s many hot springs. 

Related reading: Skip The Jacuzzi and Brave the Ice Bath: Industry Insider Joanna Moran Reveals Her Top Spa Secrets

 

Banff, Canada 

banff lake view

The azure lakes, glaciers, mountains, and alpine meadows of Banff make a scenic backdrop for any occasion, but particularly for an anniversary trip. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Banff National Park is Canada’s oldest national park, the perfect place to reconnect with nature – and each other. Journey with Luxury Gold’s Majesty of the Rockies tour and stay at the 5-star Fairmont Banff Springs Resort nestled deep within the park, and ride the gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain for a bird’s eye view of the Rockies. As you unwind to the calming sounds of rushing waterfalls and bubbling mineral pools with spa treatments, take a deep breath, then let the scenery take your breath away. 

Experience it on: Majesty of the Rockies

 

Kyoto, Japan 

sunset view of kyoto japan

Kyoto is certainly one of Japan’s most romantic cities, with its atmospheric streets, numerous temples, and cherry tree-lined canals. Travel on Luxury Gold’s Majestic Japan journey and see one of the country’s most sought-after sights: the Geisha. You’ll witness a performance by a Maiko, an apprentice Geisha, skilled in the art of classical dance and entertainment, as you savor traditional Kyo-Kaiseki cuisine. Marvel at stunning temples, and take a quiet stroll together through a grove of bamboo and maple trees. 

Experience it on: Majestic Japan

 

The Maldives 

couple walking on maldives beach

As far as romantic resorts go, the Maldives has got to take the cake. There are over 1,000 islands, and there are numerous luxurious hotels to choose from. This tropical island paradise has everything you’ll need for a secluded, mindful anniversary trip; private villas, secluded beaches, and dinners on the beach. In the day, there are colorful coral reefs to explore, diving excursions for the more adventurous, and spa treatments to unwind with. 

 

Isle of Skye, Scotland 

sunset over isle of skye

Let your love run wild with an anniversary trip to rural Scotland, where you’ll find some of the most remote landscapes in the world. Feel like you’re on the edge of the world on Isle of Skye, where you can try oysters straight from the sea. Brave a dip in the Fairy Pools, a series of natural pools and waterfalls at the foot of the Cuillin mountains, and take long, romantic walks along the island’s rugged coastline. 

 

Australia 

couple watching sunset at kings canyon, australia

There’s so much to explore across Australia, you won’t be short of anniversary trip ideas in this diverse country. Whether you want a wild trip into the Outback or a city trip to Sydney, you can see the breadth of Australia’s beauty on Luxury Gold’s Inspiring Australia journey. Make romantic memories as you watch the colorful sunset and sunrise over Uluru, experience the magical sound of the digeridoo, visit (and taste) Australia’s wine region, and cruise around Sydney harbor.  

Experience it on: Inspiring Australia 

 

South Africa 

Lion Sands hotel Kruger South Africa

Celebrate your anniversary with a walk on the wild side: a South African safari. On Luxury Gold’s Spectacular South Africa tour, you’ll head to Kruger National Park, staying in a luxury suite in the Lion Sands Lodge where you can glimpse wildlife from your deck, and relax in your plunge pool after each exciting day. But you won’t need to search for the Big 5 from your room – you’ll venture deep into the heart of one of the world’s largest game reserves on a thrilling three-day safari, experiencing six game drives in a private, open-air safari vehicle as you lay eyes on lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, leopards, and more. Finish your stay here with dinner under the stars of the Kruger sky, courtesy of Lion Sands’ expert chefs.  

Experience it on: Spectacular South Africa

 

Amsterdam 

Amsterdam canal lit up at night

Spend your anniversary walking and cycling through the charming streets of Amsterdam, a city that often gets left out of the conversation when it comes to anniversary trip ideas within Europe. With its cosmopolitan cafes and magical art history, you can take things slow here. Take a canal boat at sunset and see the city from the water, or book your trip during tulip season (between March and May) to witness the colorful flowers in full bloom. You can spend your time wandering the streets and admiring Amsterdam’s quirky architecture, or sitting by the canal with a celebratory spritz in hand. 

 

Maine, New England 

Maine lighthouse at sunset

Discover the craggy coastlines and secluded beaches on your anniversary trip to Maine, one of the best couple vacations in the U.S. thanks to its slow pace and calm nature. Nature plays a big part in what makes Maine special, with it beaches, mountains, and vistas. Watch the sun go down behind a picturesque lighthouse, and celebrate your anniversary with an unforgettable meal – Maine balances being a quiet coastal retreat and a culinary destination. It goes without saying you need to try the famous Maine lobster, known for their sweeter taste.

 

California  

vineyard at sunset

What better way to toast to your anniversary than with a glass of something delicious? Head to California’s Wine Country in the northern San Francisco Bay Area and travel through the rolling hills, brimming with vineyards. It’s not just wine that draws couples here, but luxury hotels, Michelin star restaurants, and unique architecture across the region. You’ll come home with newfound wine knowledge, rose-tinted memories, and a bottle of something special to remember your anniversary trip with. 

 

Bavaria, Germany 

Neuschwanstein castle, germany

The land of fairytale castles, Bavaria is the place to treat your partner like royalty. Based in southwestern Germany, you’re spoilt for views in Bavaria with its countless castles and stunning natural scenery. You can tour famous castles like Neuschwanstein, or take it one step further and stay in one of the several historic castles that have been converted into hotels. Make sure to mark your anniversary by taking the Romantic Road, a route between Würzburg and Füssen that can be driven in 1-2 days, passing iconic castles and sparkling lakes, winding through Franconia’s wine country and Bavaria’s beer territory against a picturesque backdrop of the Alps. 

  

Norway 

Geiranger fjord, norway

Escape to one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world for your anniversary: the Norwegian fjords. Stay in the heart of Geiranger on Luxury Gold’s Timeless Scandinavia journey – as you gaze at the magnificent fjords and mountains from your room at the Hotel Union Geiranger, you’ll hardly want to leave your hotel. But it’ll be worth it for one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world on the Flåm railway, taking you 866 meters up the mountainside, weaving in and out of tunnels and past dramatic waterfalls.  

Experience it on: Timeless Scandinavia

New York City

new York city skyline at sunset

Want to indulge in a weekend of culture and curiosity? Take your partner on an adventure to New York City, where you can wander round world-famous art galleries during the day, and toast in award-winning restaurants and rooftop bars by night. Visit some of the city’s most iconic destinations as you walk through Central Park, go shopping on Fifth Avenue, catch a show on Broadway, and take your time through the halls of The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Go big for your anniversary in the Big Apple! 

 

Lima, Peru 

Chinese Garden in Lima, Peru

If food is your love language, then look no further for anniversary trip ideas – head to Lima, Peru’s capital city, a stop on Luxury Gold’s Treasures of the Incas journey. Dine on the country’s specialty, ceviche, in one of Lima’s 30 Michelin star restaurants, and cheers to the occasion with pisco sours. When you’re not sampling the city’s gastronomic delights, head to Parque del Amor (Love Park) for unparalleled Pacific Ocean views, and make sure to stock up on Peruvian chocolate to surprise your partner with on your special day.  

Experience it on: Treasures of the Incas

 

New Zealand 

te waonui forest retreat, new zealand

Journey to New Zealand on Luxury Gold’s Southern Drift tour, and lose yourself (but connect with each other) during your stay at the Te Waonui Forest Retreat. This 5-star haven is surrounded by pristine wilderness, combining New Zealand’s wild landscapes with impeccable luxury. You’ll feel also though you’re the only guests in this boutique hotel, with mountains, glaciers, rivers, lakes, and coastline on you doorstep should you wish to venture out. 

Experience it on: Southern Drift

Plan your perfect anniversary with a Luxury Gold journey – where will you celebrate?

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Asia, Luxury Journeys, Unwind

Stunning Gardens in Japan You Can’t Miss on Your Next Trip

July 22, 2024 by Leanne Williams No Comments
Colorful Japanese Garden in Kyoto with landscaped flowers and trees, a bright blue pond and a traditional tea house in the background

Colorful curated landscapes, serene ponds, pathways, bridges and perfectly pruned trees and shrubs – Japanese gardens are renowned worldwide for their meticulous design, attention to detail, and harmonious blend of nature and man-made elements. Here you can get lost for hours, contemplating or focusing on the details. We’ve highlighted some of the most sensational gardens in Japan that you must ear mark for a visit.

For travel inspiration: Japan destination guide

A lady shown from behind in traditional Japanese dress sits in front of a pond with delicate red and pink trees on the far side

What makes Japanese gardens so famous?

Designed to evoke a sense of tranquility, balance and contemplation, the gardens reflect Japanese aesthetics and philosophies such as wabi-sabi (the acceptance of imperfection and impermanence) and Zen Buddhism.

Travel to Japan with Luxury Gold: Majestic Japan

Where are the 3 Great gardens of Japan?

The three Great Gardens of Japan are located in different cities across the country – Kenrokuen is in Kanazawa, Korakuen is in Okayama and Kairakuen is in Mito. Their reputation as the “three great gardens” stems from their beauty, cultural significance, and the unique experiences they offer to visitors.

Collectively renowned for their historical significance, these famous gardens have been meticulously designed and maintained over centuries and embody the principles of traditional Japanese garden landscaping and aesthetics. They are celebrated for their harmonious blend of natural elements like water, rocks, plants, and architecture, creating tranquil and visually stunning environments for visitors to explore and appreciate.

You may also enjoy reading: Bird Costumes and Cherry Blossom: Why Spring is the Best Time to Visit Japan

Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa

Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa in Japan with a low bridge over wise waterways, landscaped green grass and trees and a bright blue sky

Kenrokuen means “Six Attributes Garden,” reflecting this exquisite garden’s design principles of spaciousness, seclusion, artificiality, antiquity, waterways and panoramic views. The spacious grounds used to be the outer garden of Kanazawa Castle and were constructed over a period of two centuries.

Meticulously landscaped, Kenrokuen garden features a variety of ponds, streams, bridges, tea houses and carefully pruned trees. The garden’s beauty is further enhanced by a different look for all seasons, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in the fall.

Korakuen Garden, Okayama

Blue flowers, a small river, a bridge and ricks in Korakuen garden in Japan

Image credit: @okayamakorakuen on Instagram

Korakuen is one of the oldest and most beautiful gardens in Japan, featuring expansive lawns, ponds filled with colorful koi fish and historic tea houses. Created around 300 years ago by the Ikeda family who once ruled Okayama, as a place to relax. The vast grounds, designed around carp-filled ponds offer a stunning step back in time to the Edo Period, with all the classic features of a strolling garden, including waterfalls, bridges and cherry trees.

A great read for garden lovers: Blooming Romance: Where to Find England’s Finest Rose Gardens

Kairakuen Garden, Mito

Kairakuen Garden, Mito in Japan showing a traditional tea house with landscaped shrubs

Image credit: Tonatsu, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Famous for its three thousand plum trees that blossom in late winter, Kairakuen Garden in full bloom is a breathtaking sight, rightfully ranked amongst  three finest landscape gardens in Japan.

Located in Mito, this famous garden was built relatively recently in 1841 by the local lord Tokugawa Nariaki and was always open to the public. In fact, Kairakuen means “park to be enjoyed together”.

Adachi Museum of Art Garden, Yasugi

Adachi Museum of Art Garden, Yasugi with white sand, carefully trimmed bushes, rocks and waterways and flowers

Image credit: Bernard Gagnon, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

The Adachi Museum of Art (Adachi Bijutsukan) was established in 1970 by Adachi Zenko, a native entrepreneur, who sought to merge his love for Japanese art and garden landscaping. His vision was to cultivate a deeper appreciation for Japanese art through the meticulously maintained gardens and exquisite artwork on display. It has been named the best garden in Japan multiple times and is considered a masterpiece of modern Japanese garden design, attracting art and garden enthusiasts from around the world.

The several gardens around the museum can be enjoyed at any time of year but can only be viewed from the Museum building. The main garden is the Dry Landscape Garden, along with the Moss Garden, the Tea Garden, the Pond Garden, which is the oldest garden on the grounds, and the White Gravel and Pine Garden, a tribute to works of Yokoyama Taikan.

Bookmark for later: The Ultimate Japan Packing List: What to Take On Your First Trip

Ryoan-ji Temple, Kyoto

The famous dry garden of Ryoan-ji Temple, Kyoto with white sand and carefyully placed rocks

Image credit: Cquest, CC BY-SA 2.5 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5>, via Wikimedia Commons

The Ryoan-ji Temple boasts one of the most renowned rock gardens in Japan, shrouded in mystery regarding its designer and precise interpretation. Simple and elegant, this Zen Garden is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site and consists of carefully raked white gravel surrounding 15 meticulously placed rocks on a bed of moss. The rocks are arranged in such a way that, no matter where you stand, only 14 rocks are visible at a time, a design that encourages deep contemplation and meditation. The garden’s symbolism has sparked a wide array of interpretations, ranging from depictions of islands to a tiger ferrying her cubs across water, and even representing the abstract notion of infinity.

Katsura Imperial Villa Garden, Kyoto

Lush green gardens of Katsura Imperial Villa Garden, Kyoto in Japan shows a pond, trees and a tea house

Image credit: Odd Roar Aalborg, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

The Katsura Imperial Villa Garden in Kyoto is considered a masterpiece of Japanese garden design. This historic residence and garden complex was constructed in the early 17th century and is considered a prime example of traditional Japanese architecture and landscaping. The garden features winding gravel paths, tranquil ponds, meticulously groomed trees, and strategically placed tea houses, bridges, and lanterns. Every view within the garden is carefully framed to create a sense of balance and harmony, inviting visitors to contemplate the beauty of nature and the essence of Japanese aesthetics.

You may also like: Guardians of a National Icon: Meet Japan’s Cherry Blossom Doctors

Shinjuku Gyoen, Tokyo

A footbridge at Shinjuku Gyoen, Tokyo leads to landscape gardens and trees

Image credit: Basile Morin, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Shinjuku Gyoen in Tokyo is a sprawling and diverse garden that blends traditional Japanese, English, and French garden styles, offering visitors a peaceful oasis in the heart of the bustling city. Often called Tokyo’s answer to Central Park, this spacious park was once part of an Edo era (1603-1867) feudal lord’s home and was opened to the public in 1949. The park features meticulously landscaped lawns, serene ponds, colorful flower beds and a wide variety of trees from around the world. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant foliage in autumn, and peaceful strolls throughout the year.

Imperial Palace East Gardens, Tokyo

Imperial Palace East Gardens, Tokyo with briegt green landcsaped plants, trees in various greens and lily pads.

Image credit: John w, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

For a glimpse into Japan’s imperial past, head to the Imperial Palace East Gardens in Tokyo. Once part of the Edo Castle grounds, they feature a blend of traditional Japanese landscaping and Western influences, including Edo Period stone walls, teahouses, bridges and carefully curated greenery. Visitors can enjoy serene strolls through groves of cherry and plum trees, maple trees which are spectacular in the fall, expansive lawns, and peaceful ponds, all set against the backdrop of the modern Tokyo skyline.

Kyoto Botanical Gardens

A waterfall and manicured laws and plants in Kyoto Botanical Gardens, Japan

Image credit: Daderot, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

The Kyoto Botanical Gardens was the first-ever public botanical gardens in Japan, which opened in 1924. The garden has 12,000 plant species, allowing visitors to enjoy different seasonal settings from cherry blossoms to chrysanthemums to the autumn shades of vermillion and gold.

To experience the best of Japan in luxury style, take a look at our Majestic Japan small group journey.

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Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, Latin America, Luxury Journeys, New Zealand, USA and Canada

10 of the World’s Best Luxury Resorts to Stay at This Year

July 4, 2024 by Laura Goodman No Comments
Interiors at the Hotel D'Angleterre in Geneva

The best luxury resorts in the world are of course glorious places to stay, but there is so much more to them than their guest rooms – they’re gateways to destinations, and they’re entire destinations in themselves. Whether they happen to be located in the middle of national parks, private white sand beaches, wine country, ski slopes, cities or small towns, they tell a unique story about their place. Here are 10 of our favorites right now.

For billabong swims and hammock time: Silky Oaks Lodge, Queensland

Forty ‘treehouses’ sit snugly in the world’s oldest living rainforest, surrounded by fronds and vines, ferns and mosses. It’s hard not to think of Eden as you lie in your hammock following a dazzling blue Ulysses butterfly or a chattering of palm cockatoos with your eyes. Guests have the chance to learn about the Indigenous culture of the local Kuku Yalanji people who have lived in the Daintree Rainforest continuously, and have a deep connection with it.

 

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For tranquility and connecting with nature: Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel

In the mountains of north Japan, this tranquil ryokan is the only resort built on the shore of the Orase Gorge, part of the Towada-Hachimantai National Park, a protected area teeming with lushness: beech, katsura and Japanese horse chestnut trees, plus over 300 species of moss. Rooms overlook the stream and waterfalls; it’s an unparallelled vantage point for witnessing the changing seasons. Lots of significance is placed on the onsen experience in the hot springs from Mount Hakkoda – the concept behind the resort is “Keiru slow living”. Stay here on our Majestic Japan journey. 

For sumptuous living in the city: The Leela Palace, Chennai

One of the best luxury resorts on our Essence of India journey, this is almost five acres of sheer opulence and romance where the Bay of Bengal meets the Adyar river. There are brunches fit for royalty, sea-view sundowners, marble corridors, chandeliers and silk ruching wherever you look, even a cake shop, whose counters are filled with handcrafted macarons, chocolates and cheesecakes. Rooms and suites are haven-like, golden and glorious but it’s worth tearing yourself out of them to lounge by the enormous pool. 

 

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For icon status in the great Canadian outdoors: Fairmont Banff Springs

Known as Canada’s “Castle in the Rockies” this world-famous resort with its steep copper roofs, dormers and gables, is located in the majestic Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Besides absurd levels of beauty and various walking trails, the park itself offers opportunities for horseback riding, rock climbing, biking, glacier walking and skiing. On the resort itself, there’s a 27-hole championship golf course and an award-winning spa, not to mention wildflower cocktails in the timeless Rundle Bar. 

Stay here on our Majesty of the Rockies journey.

 

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For serenity (and celebrity) by the beach: Copacabana Palace, Rio

As far as world class locations go, Copacabana Beach is hard to beat. This imposing white Carrara marble icon has been in situ since 1923, when French architect Joseph Gire took influence from the Negresco in Nice and the Carlton in Cannes. Since then, celebrities passing through have included Walt Disney, Brigitte Bardot, Princess Diana and Madonna. Away from the high energy of the beach and the city streets, the interiors offer soothing white linens, mahogany furnishings and arguably the best balconies in the world. 

This hotel is on our Classic South America journey.

 

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For Tuscan frescoes and flowers: Four Seasons Firenze

This is an urban retreat of Florentine proportions, housed across the 15th-century Palazzo della Gherardesca and the 16th-century convent, La Villa. The creamy interiors feature frescoes, paintings and sculptures, plus elaborate floral displays and golden light seemingly sent from the heavens. The Renaissance theme continues through the Michelin star restaurant, wine cellar and into the relaxation center, with its ancient Italian spa treatments and garden-based yoga. All a 15-minute walk from the Duomo.  

For English charm and Swiss hospitality: Hotel d’Angleterre, Geneva

On the shore of the glittering Lake Geneva, the Angleterre is a grand old dame to behold, but – as one of the best luxury resorts in the world – it’s also more intimate than you might expect. No two rooms are the same – there’s masterful quilting and upholstery, with playfulness coming through in the occasional leopard print cushion, striped drape, silk-covered wall or original Miró sketch. There’s afternoon tea, of course, plus decanters of port, cognac and whisky. It’s a masterclass in refined luxury, and it’s best enjoyed as part of Majestic Switzerland. 

For easy living in The Big Easy: The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans

At the edge of the French quarter, the swish Maison Blanche building which occupies a whole city block is a retreat from the hubbub, but a very assuredly New Orleanian one. After a dinner of farm-to-table Louisiana cuisine (blue crab beignets, seafood gumbo, shrimp and grits), guests can listen to jazz musician Jeremy Davenport playing the lounge named after him, while sipping Davenportinis. It’s always a joyful stop on our Southern Grace journey. The spaces are ritzy and glamorous – lots of black leather and velvet.

 

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A post shared by The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans (@ritzcarltonneworleans)

For untouchable private island solitude: Song Saa, Cambodia

This is the kind of unfathomable paradise we couldn’t not put on a list of the best luxury resorts. On Cambodia’s Koh Rong Archipelago, 45 minutes by speedboat from Sihanoukville, Song Saa is arranged across two small islands. It’s got everything you’d expect – palm-thatched villas with four-poster beds and sea-view plunge pools and an open-air spa made up of various pavilions, and plenty you’d never dreamed of too (it’s surprisingly family-friendly!). The owners are committed to the environment – they’ve set up a marine reserve and employ conservation staff.

For stylish safaris with heart: Londolozi, South Africa

In the Sabi Sand Game Reserve within the Greater Kruger National Park, Londolozi is all for healing the land. The Varty family behind it believe it “should inspire a desire to live in deeper connection with each other and the natural world”. Each of the exquisite camps tells a story – the Founders camp honors the past, Tree Camp is lantern-lit, and sanctuary-like, and Varty Camp is the heart and soul – it’s been hosting family-friendly campfires for over 100 years. The rooms and suites are richly layered under thatched roofs, each with expansive decks on which to do yoga, bathe or sip champagne.

We also think you’ll like: Celebrity Haunts: Staying at the World’s Most Star Studded Hotels

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December 1, 2025

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We invite you to embark on a travel experience unlike any other. Join us as we explore exotic lands and distinctive destinations, in exquisite style and comfort. At Luxury Gold, it’s our pleasure to make your next journey extraordinary. Allow us to share our unparalleled wealth of expertise and insights, accumulated over nearly 100 years as leaders in luxury travel.
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