Time with family is precious, so make your next vacation together exceptional. Whether you are seeking a spectacular safari, a luxurious train journey through the mountains or a decadent city escape, find out why a Luxury Gold tour is just perfect for families with grown-up children.

Enjoy once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experiences

There are few experiences more exhilarating than getting up close and personal with the earth’s most majestic wildlife. And for families with grown-up children, sharing these moments together is even more special. Seeing wild animals in their natural habitat is both a privilege and unforgettable experience that will create a lifetime of memories.

Join us on our 9-day Spectacular South Africa tour, and spend three sublime days immersed in wildlife at the famous Kruger National Park. Experience the thrill and excitement of tracking Africa’s Big Five: the lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo.

Safari by day and dine on a candle-lit terrace at night, listening to the sounds of wild animals in the evening air. And rest your heads at night at your exquisite 5-star retreat.

Read more: Where the wilderness and luxury combine: Step inside the Lion Sands Game Reserve

Discover this on: Spectacular South Africa

In Ranthambore National Park, India, search out the elusive tigers in their natural habitat as you stalk the former private hunting grounds of the maharajahs.

On our Essence of India tour, join a Local Expert on a quest for these spectacular tigers and explore the lakes and palace ruins of the park with an Expert Naturalist. These include traditional Chhatri dome-shaped pavilions, old fortifications and a magnificent 1,000-year-old fort.

Read more: Walking with the king of the big cats in India’s royal hunting grounds

Discover this on: Essence of India

Take a luxurious train journey

Imagine taking a luxurious train journey with your children on some of the world’s most iconic routes, enjoying first class service and magnificent views across stunning landscapes. Relax, share memories and precious moments, dine in style and watch the world unfold.

@rockymountaineer

Travel with Luxury Gold on Majesty of the Rockies and journey though snow-capped peaks and lush valleys aboard the Rocky Mountaineer Goldleaf Service. Plush carriages offer 360-degree views of the unparalleled beauty of the Canadian Rockies. A large outdoor viewing platform, exclusive to GoldLeaf passengers, offers a wild and intimate view. On-board gourmet dining will see you treated to exceptional dishes created by award-winning chefs.

Read more: The Rocky Mountaineer, North America’s most luxurious train journey

Discover this on: Majesty of the Rockies

@belmondroyalscotsman

Or in Europe, travel to the United Kingdom on British Royale and extend your vacation with a journey aboard the Royal Scotsman. Immerse yourself in Edwardian elegance and the rugged beauty of the Scottish highlands, stopping en route at distilleries, castles and quaint villages. This iconic train combines 5-star service, Mother Nature’s beauty and comforts of a country house, with the best of Scottish gastronomy and traditional live entertainment.

Discover this on: British Royale

You may enjoy reading: 7 of the world’s most luxurious train journeys

Discover a new culture through gastronomy

Whatever your nationality, age or religion, food brings family together. Sharing a meal is sharing precious time, for conversation, reflection, stories and laughter. Nourishing for the body and the soul, exploring a country through its cuisine is also the perfect way for families with grown-up children to connect with new cultures as you discover new aromas, tastes, languages and customs.

On Cambodia & Vietnam in Style you’re invited to step into a mystical world of rainforests, beaches, mountains and bustling cities, packed with ancient temples and friendly locals. A culinary journey second to none, dine at Saigon’s splendid rooftop restaurants in and enjoy a meal and private concert at the home of celebrated painter and singer, Camille Huyen. Feast on pho and crab spring rolls as you join a local foodie to explore the street food culture of Hanoi and roll up your sleeves for a hands-on cooking class with a local chef.

Discover this on: Cambodia & Vietnam in Style

Read more: Fine dining, dressed down: the cuisine of Vietnam and Cambodia

Discover the delights of Majestic Japan from the stunning Oirase Gorge to the metropolis of Tokyo. A country known for its hospitality, innovation and tradition, unwrap its history as you savor tempura, sushi, kyo-Kaisekiand teppanyaki cuisine. Dine on Mount Fuji, visit a traditional teahouse, meet a sake brew master and learn how to make sushi with a master chef.

Discover this on: Majestic Japan

Read more: A journey of a lifetime: unearthing Majestic Japan, with Luxury Gold

Stand in awe of iconic monuments

The world’s iconic monuments. Everyone has these on their bucket list and what better way to see them than with family. From the Pyramids of Egypt to the Colosseum of Rome, they do not disappoint.

Instantly recognizable as an iconic symbol of Australia’s landscapes and heritage, Uluru tops many a traveler’s bucket list. On Inspiring Australia we invite you to witness this powerful place at her best. Enjoy multi-colored sunsets, a dawn performance of renowned artist Bruce Munro’s Field of Light art installation of colored glass spheres and dine to the sounds of the digeridoo.  A luxurious stay at the five-star Sails in the Desert, Ayers Rock Resort, a beautiful oasis amid the raw beauty of the Outback, will make your family holiday complete.

Discover this on: Inspiring Australia

Read more: The irresistible lure of Uluru, Australia’s spiritual hub

One of the most sought-after destinations on earth, Machu Picchu in Peru stands 2,430 m above sea-level in the middle of a lush tropical mountain forest. Join us on Treasures of the Incas and access the enigmatic Lost City of the Incas by train. First-class seats and panoramic windows make for sublime views en route. Arrive before the day trippers and join your expert guide for a fascinating and unforgettable journey back in time.

Discover this on: Treasures of the Incas

Read more: Step inside Peru’s blissful Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Explore spectacular cities

If your family loves to be in the heart of the action, then the world’s greatest cities might be top of your list for a vacation together. From busy markets, museums and galleries to eclectic festivals and delicious restaurants, cities are the hub of a country’s culture and full of endless surprises.

In the vibrant American South, the cities of Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans take center stage on our Southern Grace tour. An idyllic combination of music, culture and cuisine, each day in these world-famous cities is bookended with delicious dining and magnificent hotels.

Perfect for families with grown-up children, get together to participate in a rare recording session at Nashville’s famous Studio B. Join a singer/songwriter to learn the stories behind the hits before getting out your dancing shoes for a lively performance at the Grand Ole Opry. Visit Graceland, the home of The King of Rock n Roll in Memphis and take a private cooking class in New Orleans.

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

Discover this on: Southern Grace

Take a timeless journey on Ultimate Italy and explore iconic cities that have amazed visitors for generations. Cruise canals and explore Doges Palace after hours in Venice. Follow in the footsteps of gladiators at Rome’s mighty colosseum. Lose yourself amongst the masterpieces and frescos of the Vatican Museums. See Michelangelo’s David in Florence, feast on local delicacies and join a hunt for delicious truffles.

And, as a brief respite from the hustle and bustle, a sojourn to the stunning Isle of Capri will see you savoring Michelin-starred dining and embracing the celebrity lifestyle.

Discover this on: Ultimate Italy

Read more: Making it personal: How Travel Concierge Anna elevates your Italy experience

Fresh local ingredients bursting with flavor. Colourful dishes, exquisitely presented. The cuisine of Vietnam and Cambodia is a delight for both the palate and the eye.

While street food is an essential part of the culinary experience, both countries also have a glittering fine dining scene. And whether you’re sampling traditional dishes from a market vendor in Siem Reap or dining at one of Saigon’s spectacular rooftop restaurants, every meal in these two countries is an experience.

Discover this on: Cambodia & Vietnam in Style

Delicious, healthy and aesthetically pleasing

Although they’re distinctive from one another, the cuisines of Vietnam and Cambodia share common principles. Dishes focus on fresh, local ingredients, a delicate balance of flavors and thoughtful use of herbs and spices. Both are influenced by Indian, Chinese and, more recently, French cuisine.

For both cultures, food is not only meant to be delicious, but also visually appealing. Whether you’re in a fine-dining restaurant or at a street food stand, the way a dish is presented can be just as important as the flavors and ingredients used to make it.

Traditional Vietnamese dishes are often served on a platter, with a carefully chosen variety of herbs and vegetables. The colors, textures and shapes of the ingredients working together to create a visual treat. Cambodian dishes are often served in small bowls or plates, with each component arranged with precision and artistic flair.

Related article: From London to Tokyo: Where to sample the world’s best street food

Food presentation – Chinese and Buddhist traditions

The emphasis on presentation can be traced back to the influence of Chinese culinary traditions. In Chinese culture, food is not only meant to nourish the body, but also to delight the senses. Dishes are made with precision, attention to detail and an artistic flair that typifies their way of life.

The Buddhist concept of mindfulness is also a significant influencing factor. In Buddhist culture, the act of preparing and serving food is considered a form of meditation. Every plate is put together with care and attention, with the goal of creating a harmonious and balanced meal.

Fresh produce and a tropical climate

The fresh and flavorful ingredients used in the cuisine of Cambodia and Vietnam are a testament to the richness and diversity of the local produce and agricultural traditions of both countries.

Both have a tropical climate that allows for the cultivation of a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. This offers a ready supply of sublime ingredients and flavors including lemongrass, ginger, chilies and tropical fruits like mango and papaya.

Rice is also staple food in both countries, as are rice noodles, which are used in dishes such as pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) and kuy teav (Cambodian noodle soup). Due to their locations, seafood and freshwater fish also feature in many dishes.

You may also enjoy reading: The calmest cities in the world

Distinctive ingredients and styles

The cuisine of Vietnam is based on fresh ingredients, minimal cooking and lots of leafy greens and seafood. Typically, the Vietnamese use very limited amounts of animal protein and fat, and moderate use of sugar. Common ingredients in traditional dishes include rice, noodles, seafood, pork and herbs like lemongrass, basil and cilantro. Vietnam is also known for its use of nuoc mam, a fermented fish sauce that is used in many traditional dishes to add depth and flavor.

Taking a strong influence from neighbors Vietnam, Thailand and Laos, Cambodian dishes are often milder in terms of heat. Rice and fish are the staple ingredients, flavored with spices and herbs including kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, turmeric and galangal. Prahok is a feature ingredient, this fermented fish paste that adds a distinctive umami flavor. And, if you are feeling adventurous, Cambodians are entomophagous, meaning they eat insects. This means you may find that crickets, ants and tarantulas are available on the menu.

Famous dishes

One of the most famous dishes in the cuisine of Vietnam is pho, a local staple and also an international culinary export. There is now where better to savor this flavorful noodle soup than in its home country. Typically made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, herbs and spices, you will see pho on every menu, from a fine dining restaurant to a street side cafe. Other popular Vietnamese dishes include banh mi, a baguette sandwich filled with a variety of meats and vegetables, and goi cuon, fresh spring rolls made with rice paper, vermicelli noodles, herbs, and a variety of meats or seafood.

Amok is the national dish of Cambodia. One of the royal dishes of the past, it dates back to the Khmer Empire during the 9th to 15th centuries. This coconut milk-based curry, with a mouse like consistency, is made with fish or chicken and usually served in a banana leaf cup or coconut shell. Lok lak, a stir-fry dish made with beef or pork, vegetables and a flavorful sauce is also both delicious and popular.

You may also be interested to read: These are 2023’s most remarkable luxury travel trends

Dine your way around Cambodia and Vietnam in Style

Gastronomy is at the heart of every Luxury Gold tour. And our Cambodia & Vietnam in Style tour offers a culinary journey that will set your taste buds alight day after day. Paired with magnificent hotels, unique experiences and an exclusively curated itinerary.

Dine at one of Saigon’s finest rooftop restaurants in Saigon, with the lights of the city twinkling in the background. And savor a memorable meal and private concert at the home of celebrated painter and singer, Camille Huyen. Join a local foodie in the Old Quarter to explore the street food culture of Hanoi. Feast on pho and crab spring rolls. Participate in a hands-on cooking class alongside a local chef. Learn from villagers how they cultivate and harvest vegetables according to local customs.

If you are feeling inspired to treat yourself to the journey of a lifetime, take a look at Cambodia & Vietnam in Style or our full collection of luxury Vietnam vacations.

A source of life and power for millennia the River Nile is rightfully known as the grandest river in the world. Its history, prestige and modern-day influence is rooted in its central role in the development of one of the world’s greatest civilizations. The Nile is not only a source of stunning scenery, but also a treasure trove of historic sites that provide a glimpse into the rich and fascinating history of Egypt.

A sacred river

The Nile is the longest river in the world, stretching over 4,000 miles from its source in Lake Victoria to its mouth at the Mediterranean Sea. For thousands of years, it has been a vital lifeline for the people of Egypt, providing water for agriculture, transportation and trade. The river was also a key factor in the rise of ancient Egyptian civilization, with many of the country’s most iconic landmarks and monuments situated along its banks.

The Nile was not only a source of life for the people who lived along its banks but also a key factor in their social, political and economic systems. In ancient times, the Nile was worshipped as the god Hapi, who was believed to be the source of all life. The annual flooding was seen as a gift from the gods, as it provided the necessary water and nutrients to sustain crops and livestock.

For travel inspiration: Egypt destination guide

Known for its strategic importance

The Nile also provided a means of transportation for goods and people, which facilitated trade and commerce throughout the region. During the colonial period, European powers recognized the strategic importance of controlling the Nile and its tributaries. The Nile Valley became a focal point of international competition, and Britain, France and Italy vied for control of the region.

Today, the Nile remains a vital source of water, food, and energy for millions of people in Egypt, Sudan and other countries along its banks. The Aswan High Dam, completed in 1970, harnesses the power of the Nile to generate electricity and irrigate crops. It ended the cycle of flood and drought in the Nile River region, and exploited a tremendous source of renewable energy, but had a controversial environmental impact.

Discover this on: Elegance of Egypt

Sublime from the water

One of the best ways to experience the Nile is by boarding a luxury river cruise. From the comfort of your ship, you’ll be able to soak up the stunning scenery and visit some of Egypt’s most famous landmarks and historical sites.

As you cruise down the Nile, you’ll see why it is the grandest river in the world. Here you can relax and soak up the spectacular scenery. From the lush green banks of the river to the stark desert landscape beyond, the Nile offers a breathtaking variety of landscapes to admire. And as the sun sets over the river, the atmosphere becomes even more magical, with the sound of traditional music and the scent of exotic spices filling the air.

Discover this on: Elegance of the Nile

Cairo

One of the major sights of the Nile is Cairo. The ‘City of a Thousand Minarets’ is the capital of Egypt and is one of the largest cities in both Africa and the Middle East. A city rich in history, museums and ancient artefacts, Cairo is also the place to indulge in exceptional hospitality and delicious cuisine.

Egyptian food is a mixture of all the different civilizations that came to Egypt. Savoury dishes, with aromatic spices enable you to taste all these cultures on one plate. In ancient times, the proximity of Egypt to the Middle East and the presence of the River Nile, made trade easy. Hence Egypt enjoyed produce from foreign countries as well, heavily influenced their cuisine.

Cairo is also famous for the Giza Pyramids Complex, which holds one of the Seven Wonders of the World – the Great Pyramid of King Khufu.

You may also enjoy reading: These are 2023’s most remarkable luxury travel trends

Giza – the Great Sphinx and the Pyramids

A spectacular landmark that can be seen from the Nile, the Great Sphinx of Giza is one of the most famous sculptures in the world. This magnificent statue of a lion with a human head is one of the most recognizable symbols of ancient Egypt, along with the great Pyramids. The Pyramids of Giza were built as tombs for the pharaohs Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure in the 26th century BCE. The Great Pyramid of Khufu is the largest and most famous, standing at over 480 feet tall.

Discover this on: Elegance of the Pharaohs

Read more: Six Spectacular Egyptian Temples

The Luxor Temple complex

The spectacular Luxor Temple complex spans both banks of the Nile, the grandest river in the world, and houses seven great temples and monuments: Goornah, Deir-el-Bahari, the Colossi of Memnon, the Ramesseum, and Medinet Habu on the West Bank; and Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple on the East Bank. A stunning example of ancient Egyptian architecture and art, the temples were dedicated to the god Amun, his wife Mut and their son Khonsu.

This vast complex of temples and chapels was built over a period of 2,000 years and is one of the largest religious complexes in the world. Towering columns and intricate carvings reveal what life was like for the pharaohs and priests who once worshipped here. The avenue of sphinxes, which connects the temples to the Karnak Temple complex, is also a major highlight.

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

Kom Ombo

 The Temple of Kom Ombo is another historic site along the Nile and was built in the 2nd century BCE during the Ptolemaic dynasty. The temple is unique in that it is dedicated to two gods: the falcon-headed Horus and the crocodile-headed Sobek. Its divided into two sections, each with its own entrance, hall and sanctuary.

One of the most interesting features of the Temple of Kom Ombo is the presence of a number of medical texts and surgical instruments. These artifacts suggest that the temple may have been used as a centre for healing and that the priests who served there may have been skilled in medicine.

 Abu Simbel

Another must-see historical site along the grandest river in the world is Abu Simbel, located in southern Egypt near the border with Sudan. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to two temples built by the pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BCE. The temples are famous for their colossal statues of the pharaoh, which are over 60 feet tall, and for their intricate carvings and hieroglyphs.

The most magnificent of the monuments Ramses II built, Abu Simbel is both the perfect example of the ambition of this pharaoh’s reign and also a model illustration of the achievements of modern engineering and global cooperation. Today, visitors here still crane their necks in disbelief at the behemoth temples just as the pharaoh’s subjects would have done when the temples were first raised.

The entire temple complex was transplanted from its original location and lifted piece by piece to its current site by an international UNESCO team working against the clock to preserve it from being flooded by the Aswan High Dam in the 1960s.

You may also enjoy reading: Slow and sustainable: The expectations of the luxury traveler in 2023 and beyond

To savor the riches of the Nile, the grandest river in the world for yourself, take a look at our limited-edition tours to Egypt. Whether you choose to cruise the waters or travel by land, enjoy luxurious accommodations, exceptional cuisine and first-class service every step of the way.