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Concierge Tips, Europe

Meet Andy Coulter, the Highland Piper with Royal Connections

June 10, 2024 by Leanne Williams No Comments

Distinct, stirring and evocative. The rousing sound of bagpipes is recognized all over the world. An exclusive audience with Highland Piper Andy Coulter is a highlight of our British Royale journey, so we sat down with him to learn more about this revered instrument and his royal connections.

Enjoy an exclusive audience with Andy on: British Royale

Piping through the generations

“I’m what you call an Ulster Scot, I was born in Northern Ireland and now live near Edinburgh,” says Andy. “My father was a piper, my grandfather and my great grandfather. I started when I was 10 years old.

“After school I joined the army and spent many years in the Drums and Pipes. So, I’ve been a Pipe Major a long time. When I left, I worked for Mohammad Al Fayed as close protection security, and he asked me to get a Harrods’s pipe band going. We piped in the store and for dignitaries, as well as at his castle in Scotland.”

You may also enjoy reading: The Ultimate Luxury Shopping Guide to Edinburgh

An instrument of war and heritage

“The pipes date back to the 14th century are basically a war instrument, although they haven’t been played in combat now for over 40 years, since the Falklands War.” Andy tells us. “A lot of Clan chiefs had pipes or a personal piper to pipe them into battle. They would also pipe them into dinner and pipe them into the grave!

“I play the pipes at lots of funerals and lots of weddings, it’s a very traditional thing here. They are preserving Scottish and Gaelic music and heritage for future generations.”

My royal resume

“When I was in the army my ceremonial work consisted of The Trooping of the Colour and state occasions like the Queen’s Birthday parade,” Andy tells us. He has piped in military tattoos in Denmark, Canada, Germany and France, and at the famous Edinburgh Military Tattoo. “I also piped at state banquets for Buckingham Palace and the British Royal Family. When a President, King or Queen from another country was visiting, pipers would play around the table.”

For more royal tales: Secret islands and snowy retreats: 5 hotspots loved by the British Royal family

Enduring connections

“I was piping at a state banquet at Buckingham Palace for King Juan Carlos of Spain and his wife Queen Sofia, hosted by Queen Elizabeth II,” says Highland Piper Andy. “Following our traditional performance, I was asked to play a solo for the Queen Mother. It was a very unexpected and memorable occasion and I find that Luxury Gold guests love hearing all about this.

“I also met the Queen Mother on another occasion, whilst on guard duty at Windsor Castle. This is an amusing story that I share with guest when I meet them in Edinburgh. Suffice to say she left quite an impression on me.”

An exclusive audience for Luxury Gold guests

Andy delights in sharing the details of his encounters with the Queen Mother with Luxury Gold guests, after they dine at the exclusive Royal Scots Club in Edinburgh. A grand finale to their time in the vibrant Scottish capital, Highland Piper Andy tells us “I go in and play a couple of tunes and introduce myself. We then talk, share a few stories and I answer any questions that guests might have. I’ll also get them to join in a bit with me. It is always lots of fun. I find that people are very interested in the bagpipes and piping, I think it resonates with everyone.”

Tantalize your tastebuds: The Luxury Gold guide to the finest Michelin star restaurants in Edinburgh

A cherished heirloom

“My pipes belonged to my great grandfather, and he bought them in 1888,” explains Andy, adding that they gain in value as they are handed down through the generations. “The bag itself is perishable and you also change the reeds when needed. But the pipes themselves are what you pay for. The wood is a very hard brittle wood called Mpingo. It is an African Blackwood, the best wood you can find and is worth around $20,000 a meter.

“When I first meet guests, they are often very intrigued and impressed by my uniform. The question I am asked most is how much does it weigh? It’s heavy because of the traditional Eight Yard kilt, the bonnet, shoes and pipes and comes in at 22 kilos which is about 45 lbs.”

Read how we make British Royale is exceptional: How Travel Concierge Michael Gives a Royal Welcome in the UK

A sound that resonates across the globe

“The Great Highland Pipes that I play originated in Scotland. But there are around 70 different types of bagpipes throughout the world,” says Andy. “There are Scottish Small Pipes and Scottish Parlor Pipes for example. There’s the Northumbrian Pipe and in Ireland the Uilleann Pipes. In Brittany in France, you have the Bretton pipers. They’re all Celtic nations. Pipers also played a similar looking pipe in Northern Spain, and even in Romania and places like that you can find pipes. They all have different styles of course.

“The Great Highland Bagpipes were the musical symbol of war; they were played in battle. My great grandfather played in battle in the Boer War, my grandfather played in the battle in the Somme and at Gallipoli.”

Related content: 7 of the world’s most luxurious train journeys

The next generation

“Pipes will never go out of fashion,” Highland Piper Andy says. “In Scotland the collieries all have pipe bands and that’s where they all stem back to. They are taught in school as well. Every Scottish High School in Scotland has a band or at least a few pipers. New Zealand has more pipers and pipe bands per population than anywhere else in the world and some of the best competition pipe bands can be found in Canada.

“With bagpipes found all over the world, they resonate for so many people. It’s also such a versatile instrument, associated with everything from weddings and dancing to military processions and funerals. Be it a highland fling or the haunting melody of Amazing Grace, when the pipes start playing, they always raise the hairs on the back of your neck.”

For the opportunity to meet Andy Coulter for yourself and hear the unforgettable sound of the Highland Bagpipes, take a look at our British Royale luxury tour.

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Luxury Journeys, New Zealand

Napier, New Zealand is a Gateway to the Glamorous 1930s

May 24, 2024 by Leanne Williams No Comments
John Ellison stands beside a gleaming dark red vintage car in front of an art deco building in Napier, New Zealand

The purr of the engine. The wind in your hair. Nostalgia flowing through your veins. To ride in a vintage car is to step back to a bygone era of chauffeur-driven luxury. A memorable way to discover any destination, it’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the fascinating Art Deco city of Napier, New Zealand. And you can experience this for yourself on our luxury small group journey The Long White Cloud.

Few know this fascinating city better than Local Expert and Chauffeur John Ellison from Napier’s Art Deco Trust. We had the pleasure of speaking to him to learn more about the experience, the city, and why by vintage car is the only way to ride.

For travel inspiration: New Zealand destination guide

Welcome to Napier

A view from the ground of a white art deco building with agree domed tower and a sight saying city centre in front.

Located on New Zealand’s North Island, Napier is a charming coastal city renowned for its Art Deco architecture, extensive vineyards, and the natural beauty and beaches of Hawkes Bay. The city’s Marine Parade promenade offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, while its lively cafes, boutique shops, and galleries showcase the region’s artistic flair. Napier also hosts several annual events, including the renowned Art Deco Festival, attracting visitors from around the world.

A day forever etched in the town’s history, on Tuesday 3 February 1931 Napier suffered a disastrous earthquake. Almost totally levelling all buildings in the inner city, it claimed over 250 lives. As a result, extensive rebuilding that took place in the 1930’s and by the end of the decade Napier was the newest city on the globe. And it was this rebuild that gave the town its distinctive Art Deco moniker.

 You may also enjoy reading: Rugged luxury: Why a Trip to New Zealand Might Surprise You

A living testament to the 1930s

John and colleague stand beside two vintage cars, one green and one dark red under the shade of a tree in Napier, New Zealand

“Napier is a snapshot in time. Its special to me as my family roots are here,” explains John. “In 1861 my family emigrated from England and played significant leadership roles in Napier’s growth. They were rewarded with street names in their honour. Many experienced the 1931 earthquake and I enjoy relating their stories as they were told to me.”

With an emphasis on the use of geometric forms, sleek lines, and manmade materials, Napier is an architecture lover’s dream. Nowhere else in the world can you see such a variety of buildings in the styles of the 1930s – Stripped Classical, Spanish Mission, and above all Art Deco, the style of the 20th Century.

A piece of living history, there’s a sight and a story around every corner, and there’s no better way to uncover the highlights of this world-famous town’s 140 art deco buildings and sculptures from the comfort of your luxurious vehicle.

Discover this on: The Long White Cloud

Bookmark for later: 11 of the Best Sustainable Fine-Dining Restaurants in the World

The lure of the vintage car

“When we drive, we take on the 1930’s persona, it’s a joy to be part of,” John says. “Both our dress and our cars represent that era. I enjoy being back driving the type of car I learnt to drive in – changing gears, a manual clutch, no power steering and perfecting the handbrake hill start.

“In our fleet we have four hardtop Packards,  one Packard convertible coupe vehicle and one hardtop Pontiac. The cars are in incredible condition with lots of room inside.

“When taking such a personal tour we quickly develop a rapport and shape the experience around guests’ interests. There’s a lot of fun and good banter on the way.”

A great read for all car lovers: Classic Car Admirers Will Love These Timeless Drives

 My favorite building

“One of my favorite spots in the town is The Public Trust Building,” says John. Arguably the most distinctive building in Napier, New Zealand, it was built in the early 1920’s in the Classical Revival Style. “It wouldn’t be out of place as part of ancient Greece.

“The Public Trust Building defied the earthquake of 1931 coming through unscathed, a testament to its build. Its construction was reinforced with copious quantities of steel, decorated with Latin lettering, bolt patterns, shields, fern fronds and geometric shapes.

“Thrust up approx. 1.5 meters and settled perfectly level, it set the example to reconstruct town and the nearly 93 years since. Though the town didn’t want to replicate this building, they adapted the architectural style to Stripped Classical used extensively in the rebuild for strength.”

Bookmark for later: These Hotels and Experiences Echo Old-World Glamor

Why New Zealand?

Birds Eye view of Queenstown in New Zealand with mountains, lakes and islands in the background.

“New Zealand is a land of variety,” says John. “Easy to navigate, its a small but sensational country. You’ll enjoy staggering variety of jaw dropping landscapes that change from the North of the North right down to the deep South. Not to mention the friendly, helpful welcome you will get from the locals.”

To complete the picture: This New Zealand Forest Retreat Combines 5-Star Luxury with Sustainability

Each ride in Napier, New Zealand gives something back

Art Deco Trust’s vintage car journeys not only offer a unique Art Deco experience, but each ride contributes to the replanting of some of New Zealand’s most stunning spots, in association with Trees that Count.

Committed to the preservation of New Zealand’s wild places, streamside and retired land plantings are a key focus, assisting against soil erosion and absorbing run off into streams and waterways.

Read more about sustainability initiatives: How We’re Setting the Gold Standard for Sustainable Luxury Travel

The land of The Long White Cloud awaits

Wide view of a long bridge leading to Auckland, with the sun setting over the water. 

If you’re dreaming of seeing the Land of the Long White Cloud (the most common translation of Aotearoa – the Maori name for New Zealand) for yourself, we invite you to be inspired and awed during a 19-day guided tour of New Zealand, The Long White Cloud. Explore Napier in a vintage car, take an overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound, dine with a former All Black and stay in exquisite forest retreats.

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Luxury Journeys, Unwind

10 Best Airlines For Business Class

May 24, 2024 by Lucy Thackray No Comments
Singapore Airlines' latest business class cabin

Turning left – it’s something that every passionate lover of travel wants to do at least once in their lifetime. When you enter a business class cabin, everything is prepared just so: the lie-flat seats are upright in their glossy pods, the premium blankets are neatly folded, the generously sized flat-screen TVs are stocked with entertainment, and champagne awaits you in a real glass flute. That’s before you even get to chef-designed food and beverage offerings, white-glove service and peaceful cabin lighting. If you’re wondering about the best airlines for business class experiences, we’ve got you covered.

British Airways' Club World cabin

A passenger in British Airways’ Club World cabin

Qatar Airways

Flying business class, you get to know the cream of the crop. And Qatar Airways has the awards to prove it: not only did it top the list of the world’s best airlines for business class at the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2023, but Qatar Airways’ business class has a whopping six styles of business class seat to choose from. The plush curve of its QSuite seat, which converts to lie flat beds, is legendary, with doors you can slide across discreetly for privacy. Families or groups travelling together can also request a quartet of QSuites for a shared mega-suite; meanwhile the newer Business Class Suite (on some 787-9 Dreamliners) is even more spacious and comes with wireless charging points and a 79-inch lie-flat bed. Expect good food: Qatar also won “Best Catering” in the 2024 Airline Excellence Awards.

We also think you’ll like: Michelin Star Dining at 30,000 Feet? This Airline is Making It Possible

British Airways

The UK’s flag carrier is known for its immaculate service and experienced flight attendants – every customer in its business class cabin is greeted by name and offered a glass of champagne as they board. The historic airline is also known for pairing with star chefs, premium champagne brands and cult British food and beverage companies for its upmarket business menu (afternoon tea is a real highlight). The brand new incarnation of its “Club Suite” started arriving on flights in 2019, with direct- access for every seat, a sliding door for privacy, 40 per cent more storage space and wifi all adding a vast improvement to the airline’s former offering.

Emirates

An onboard bar is a perk you don’t see on every flight is a trip to a mile-high bar. And Emirates is one of a handful of airlines that have crafted these separate spaces with seating areas, for a sociable leg-stretch during long flights. Lacquered woods and cream leather characterise Emirates’ luxe-feeling business-class seats, while switched-on flight attendants are quick to offer drinks and bring beautifully presented meals on gleaming chinaware. The airline launched ultra-luxe amenity kits with Italian brand Bulgari in 2023, with business class flyers enjoying mini Amethyste eau de toilettes as well as rich moisturisers, lip balm, a mirror, dental kit and foldaway hairbrush. 

Singapore Airlines' latest business class cabin

Singapore Airlines’ latest business class cabin

Turkish Airlines

Turkey’s national carrier is known for its comprehensive network connecting east and west; and the business class experience is just as glamorous as you’d expect. Sculptural, curved black seating pods are well padded and feel spacious even for taller passengers. Turkish Airlines was awarded Best Business Class Catering for its onboard food and beverage in 2023, with menu items including mezze platters, kofte, swordfish brochette and Turkish “borek” pastries. Denon noise-cancelling headphones are provided to every business class passenger, for a seamless movie-watching experience, as are slick leather pouches of Ferragamo beauty products.

We also think you’ll like: The Airlines with the Most Luxurious First Class Bathrooms Have Been Revealed

Singapore Airlines

Known for its superb food and ever-smiling hospitality, Singapore Airlines is a carrier many business travels relish the thought of flying business class with. Its ‘Book the Cook’ feature means you can peruse a broad menu pre-flight and reserve your main course in advance; food is beautifully presented, while drinks include premium champagnes like Piper-Heidsieck, Singapore Sling cocktails and even mile-high cappuccinos. Meanwhile Singapore’s lie-flat beds are handcrafted from Scottish leather and diamond-stitched, with a cushioned headboard adding extra comfort. Wifi is also free to all business passengers.

Delta 

Often scooping the top spot when business travel bloggers rank the USA’s best business class experiences, Delta is a delight to fly in style. The service has had specific shout-outs from the likes of business travel website The Points Guy, while Business Traveler US crowned Delta the best business class in 2023. Its Delta One cabin refreshes you with a hot towel service on arrival, with swish Someone Somewhere amenity kits for further pampering throughout the flight. The buzz is all about the recently-launched Delta Suite, which has a fully lie-flat bed with memory foam, sliding doors (on most aircraft), do not disturb signs for passengers, and premium bedding made from recycled materials, including plastic bottles.

The Japanese 'Washoku' menu on ANA (All Nippon Airways)

The Japanese ‘Washoku’ menu on ANA (All Nippon Airways)

Virgin Atlantic

Virgin adds a little extra insider factor to its business class by playfully naming it “Upper Class” – and in the absence of a First Class cabin, the airline’s business one does feel as deluxe as it gets. Disco-hued low lighting adapts to help you acclimate to time-zone changes; plush maroon-leather seats glide effortlessly to a flat bed, with generous, squishy bedding provided by the flight attendants. Virgin is also well-rated for its service – which, unlike some nation’s airlines, manages to be friendly, cheeky and irreverent as well as capable and helpful. It also has character-packed, sociable airport lounges at its main hubs: London Heathrow’s Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse has Peloton bikes, relaxation pods, a video-game zone and pool table.

We also think you’ll like: Take a Glimpse Into Luxury Air Travel of the Future With These Stunning Designs

Cathay Pacific

This Hong-Kong-based airline is one of Asia’s most luxe flying experiences; a business class fare here will buy you a few hours in the award-winning Aria Suite seat (launching in Q4, 2024) with a 24-inch widescreen TV you can connect to with Bluetooth. Business Traveler recently listed  the new design as one of their 10 most anticipated business class cabins of 2024. In the meantime, super-soft bedding, switched-on service and a well-stocked inflight entertainment system all keep fans of the airline coming back for more. As does the food: Asian-influenced papaya salads, beef tenderloin, prawn stir fries with jasmine rice or truffled Croque Monsieurs.

ANA (All Nippon Airways)

Those who know their airline loyalty points and global business routes all covet a seat on an ANA long-haul flight to Japan. Its seat design “The Room” has one of the most generous seating areas on the global business class landscape, with tons of storage space, a 24-inch movie screen and a sliding door to hide away behind. All business class flyers get a collectable amenities pouch designed by cult luggage brand Globetrotter, a lie-flat bed and a choice between a traditional Japanese menu and an international one. Go for the former: the airline’s Executive Chef Shimizu is highly regarded, and this beautifully crafted, multi-course meal might include snapper sushi, miso-marinated mackerel and wakame salads, all served on beautiful Japanese ceramics.

Etihad

Back to the Arab Gulf for another deluxe business class cabin. Abu Dhabi’s home airline has been ahead of the game for some time when it comes to technology (wireless charging points, Bluetooth connection), inflight entertainment and seat innovations. Frequent flyers rave about its chic Acqua di Parma toiletries, Armani Casa blankets, marble-effect table tops and plush flat-bed seats with soothing, lamp-style lighting. Lunches and dinners are also served on smart Armani Casa chinaware: expect lashings of champagne, Arabic mezze, expertly executed curries and a broad wine and spirits selection. Little touches like noise-cancelling headphones and seats with a massage function add hotel-style luxury to the business class experience.

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