New year, new travel dreams. We asked our Luxury Gold travel experiences team for their recommendations for luxury hotel stays in 2025. This is what they had to say.  

Ashford Castle, County Mayo, Ireland 

This 800-year-old castle sits on a 350-acre estate of landscaped gardens, ancient woodland and an emerald lake. This grand estate is the former home of the Guinness family. It has hosted esteemed guests including The Prince of Wales and President Ronald Reagan. On your tour of Ireland, you’ll feel like royalty yourself, relaxing in the decadent suites boasting antique furniture, fine fabrics and unique features. You’ll dine like royalty in Ashford Castle hotel’s George V Dining Room, built especially for King George V in 1905. And yet, the restored castle maintains a modern feel without losing its historic charm. The exceptional hospitality and vast grounds make Ashford a place that is difficult to leave.  

Learn more about the castle, what it’s like at Christmastime and meet the castle’s resident beekeeper. 

Lions Sands Tinga Lodge, Kruger National Park, South Africa  

If your travels in South Africa take you on a safari, what better bonus than the chance to see the Big 5 from the private plunge pool in your room? Lions Sands Tinga Lodge in South Africa’s famous Kruger National Park sits on the banks of the Sabi River. Surrounded by nature in your treehouse-style room or grand suite with private deck and plunge pool, you’ll experience the height of luxury hotel stays. Watch elephants walk through the distant mist at sunrise as you sip your coffee. When you return from your safari, relax in the hotel’s Africology Spa before dining on South African cuisine on the candle-lit terrace. After the sun has left behind its orange glow, drift to sleep listening to the sounds of wild animals in the evening air. 

The Leela Palace, Udaipur, India 

We journey to India for decadence in the grand style of a Maharaja’s palace at The Leela Palace. Arriving by boat, you’ll be welcomed with music, a shower of rose petals falling and a refreshing drink. In your lake-facing room, take in the beauty of a bygone era from the regal service to the décor celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan. After a day cruising Lake Pichol or exploring Udaipur’s colorful bazaar, dine overlooking the lake and the Palace’s elegant courtyard.  

Stanley and Livingstone Boutique Hotel, Zimbabwe  

Should you extend your South Africa travels with a visit to Victoria Falls, the Stanley & Livingstone hotel is the ideal jumping off point for exploration. Tucked within the serenity of Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve, you’re just 15 minutes from the Falls. This hotel truly offers the best of both worlds; from its blend of colonial and contemporary design to the quiet feel of this retreat just minutes from the popular falls.  

@stanleyandlivingstone

Te Waonui Forest Retreat, Franz Josef, New Zealand 

For another nature-embracing accommodation, head to New Zealand’s Te Waonui Forest Retreat. After exploring the nearby Franz Josef Glacier on a valley walk, return to this quiet haven that brings together a luxury escape with environmental awareness. This 5-star retreat lets you unwind in its luxurious rooms featuring plush bed linens and a private balcony or courtyard.  

Visit New Zealand on our 19-, 12- or 8-day tours. 

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The Langham Sydney, Sydney, Australia 

From a natural retreat to a striking urban setting, jet off to Australia for our next top accommodation. Take in Sydney’s history and modern style at this boutique hotel in the heart of The Rocks district. Just outside the Langham, stroll along cobbled streets lined with historic buildings and take in dazzling views of the skyline and iconic Sydney Harbour. Back in your urban oasis’ Observatory Bar, sip on a creative cocktail from the Zodiac Gin Collection – a gin concoction infused with aromatics and garnishes and inspired by your star sign.   

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The Belmond Copacabana Palace, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 

On your luxury tour of South America, lovers of sand and sun should look no further than The Belmond Copacabana Palace on Rio’s iconic Copacabana beach for one of the finest luxury hotel stays. This gorgeous stretch of sand framed by green forested hills invites you to cool off within its waves or with a cool drink in hand. Or, get in on the action by joining one of the many beach parties, somewhat legendary at this hotel that celebrates its 100 anniversary in 2025. Having hosted guests including Bridget Bardot and Stevie Wonder, The Belmond Copacabana Palace is the place to be. 

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The Peabody Hotel, Memphis, The United States 

Take in a different slice of history on your tour of the American South at the “South’s Grand Hotel,” The Peabody Memphis. Known for its charm, elegance and rich history, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Peabody has hosted many esteemed guests since it opened in 1869. The most notable are perhaps its five resident Mallard ducks who march daily through the lobby at 11am and 5pm. Watch this charming parade before heading out to take in the culture and bustling music scene of nearby Beale Street. 

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 Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, Quebec City, Canada  

Enjoy another historic stay in Canada at the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac. Perched at the edge of Upper Old Quebec, this grand estate is in the style of a Renaissance French château. It has even hosted Grace Kelly and Sir Winton Churchill. You’ll feel like royalty yourself as you drink views of the St. Lawrence River and the Old fortified City. Explore the hotel’s paneled lobby of vaulted ceilings, oil portraits, baronial chandeliers and gold statues. It was even recognized as the 2022 Global Hotel of the Year. 

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Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff, Canada  

We head to western Canada for our final of our favorite luxury hotel stays at Canada’s ” Castle in the Rockies.” In Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Fairmont Banff Springs is a landmark and majestic natural setting. After exploring the Rocky Mountains by day, you’ll be treated to a progressive dinner feasting on a variety of courses, each served in different restaurants of this towering hotel. 

Luxury travel in 2023 is set to be slow, sustainable and immersive. From extended train journeys to memorable encounters with nature and spending longer at each destination, luxury holidaymakers are seeking a more meaningful escape. Research shows that sustainable travel experiences, connecting to the local culture and leaving a positive impact on the places you visit are all high on the travel agenda. We take a look at this gratifying travel trend and show you how our Luxury Gold limited-edition tours can help you tick these boxes.

A new rationale for travel

Travelling slowly, immersively and sustainably is an absolute expectation for luxury travel in 2023. The most recent American Express Global Travel Trends Report revealed widespread changes in the rationale of travelers. 81% of respondents want to visit destinations where they can immerse themselves in the local culture. 78% of respondents expressed a desire to have a positive impact on the community they were visiting. While 62% agreed they wanted to be more thoughtful about where and how they travel.

While travelers are spending on immersive experiences and longer holidays, the luxury traveler is doing so with an increasingly eco-conscious mindset.

Read more: 5 common misconceptions about luxury travel (and why they are wrong)

Slow and immersive with Luxury Gold

From timeless train journeys to luxury safaris, there are many ways to enjoy slow and immersive travel on our limited-edition journeys. Defining luxury travel in 2023, picture multi-night stays in magnificent hotels that enable you to unwind and make your time more meaningful with friends a family. Private access to galleries and landmarks away from the crowds, enabling you as a VIP traveler to soak up culture at your own pace. And MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® as you go, the ultimate in immersive responsible travel experiences. Here you can connect to the communities you visit, exchange stories with locals, make a positive impact and create lasting memories.

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

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Sustainable travel has long been at the heart of Luxury Gold. And this is brought to life through our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences, included on most of our limited-edition tours. Thoughtfully chosen, these experiences offer the chance to immerse yourself deeper in your destination, through its people, nature and wildlife. If you are looking to make time and travel more meaningful, this is a unique opportunity for new learnings. To make lasting connections and leave a positive legacy.

Aligned to the United Nations Global Goals for Sustainable Development, each MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience is carefully selected and assessed for its positive, and long-term impact. Even though the experience might be for just a couple of hours, the memory that you leave with, this feeling of having contributed, stays with you forever.

Read more: How your travels with Luxury Gold help conserve nature for future generations

If traveling slowly, immersively and sustainably sounds like you, then to whet your appetite further here are three of our limited-edition tours, defining luxury travel in 2023.

Majesty of the Rockies

Meet the Warrior Women and travel aboard the Rocky Mountaineer: On the stunning limited-edition tour Majesty of the Rockies we invite you to explore Western Canada’s treasures. Travel through the majestic Rocky Mountains, spending two luxurious days aboard the Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf Service. Here lose yourself in the most spectacular scenery and take time to reset, admiring nature at its most sublime. The tour also offers a plethora of immersive nature experiences. Including setting foot on a glacier and gentle canyon hikes. Multiple-night stays in the most luxurious mountain retreats allow time to enjoy the amenities, such as golf clubs and spas. This is the ultimate opportunity to relax and absorb the true magnificence of your surroundings, and reflect on the curated experiences you’ve been enjoying.

Read more: Rustic luxury: why Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is the ultimate mountain escape

In the stunning setting of Jasper National Park, an exclusive invitation and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience awaits. Here you will meet the First Nations Cree Warrior Women from the Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation, over an intimate fireside meal with a spectacular view of Pyramid Mountain. Learn about Indigenous spirituality, music and drumming as you engage in a fascinating conversation about the aboriginal culture of Canada. Leave enthralled and enlightened with some amazing stories to share with family and friends.

Read more: Uncovering Indigenous history with Canada’s Warrior Women

Discover this on: Majesty of the Rockies

Spectacular South Africa

Bask in nature on a three-day safari and support local youth: Experience the magic and wonder of South Africa on Spectacular South Africa. This nine-day luxury tour features an extended stay at the 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa in Cape Town. And a three-day safari with a stay in a memorable bush lodge. Enjoy spectacular sunsets over Cape Town and view the city from atop Table Mountain. In Kruger National Park, adventure out on a private open-air safari in search of some of the earth’s most magnificent beasts. Led by professional trackers, this once-in-a-lifetime experience unfolds the largest game reserve in South Africa.

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

On the UNESCO World Heritage site of Robben Island, enjoy the opportunity to connect to the young people of the area as you join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the Amy Foundation. Here you will meet people from the foundation and see first-hand how the lives of vulnerable young people are being transformed through a variety of empowering programs. This is a unique opportunity to see the area through a different lens. And, through your visit, contribute to the important work taking place and give something back.

On Robben Island, you’ll have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sit down with Christo Brand. As former prison guard to Nelson Mandela, you’ll be treated to fascinating stories about one of history’s most inspirational figures.

Read more: Meet Christo Brand, former prison guard to Nelson Mandela

Discover this on: Spectacular South Africa

Majestic Switzerland

Journey aboard the Glacier Express and discover sustainable transport: From St. Moritz to Zermatt and onto Geneva, Majestic Switzerland offers a once-in-a-lifetime itinerary across one of Europe’s most sustainable destinations. Take your first-class seat onboard the Glacier Express, a spectacular and sustainable way to travel through the Swiss Alps. Marvel at unrivaled views of snow-covered peaks, alpine villages and the Rhine Gorge, known as the Grand Canyon of Switzerland. Ride Europe’s highest open-air cogwheel train to the summit of the mountain. Glimpse of some of Switzerland’s highest peaks, Monte Rosa and the Matterhorn. Then take all the time you need to wander the art-filled halls of the Rosengart Collection on an after-hours private tour. Relax, reflect and enjoy this special time surrounded by the masterpieces of Chagall, Renoir, Kandinksy and Picasso.

Read more: Geneva’s Hotel D’Angleterre is a hotel committed to positive change

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An inspirational MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience lies in store at the Swiss Transport Museum. From luxe Monteverdi cars to alpine trains, discover Switzerland’s fascinating transportation and energy systems and innovations with your Local Expert. Learn about sustainable energy and fossil fuel alternatives. Chart the history of alternative transport methods, from horses and steam to electric and solar power. As well as a fascinating tour, this experience will leave you educated, and inquisitive to learn more.

Read more: Majestic Switzerland through the lens of a travel concierge

Discover this on: Majestic Switzerland

 If you’re looking for the ultimate in luxury travel in 2023, take a look at the full Luxury Gold collection of limited-edition tours.

Spending a weekend in Auckland? 48 hours in Auckland is just the right amount of time to take in the city’s many splendid sites, tempting flavors and rich history. Our New Zealand tours include the very best Auckland activities with a sprinkling of decadence. 

Your stay at QT Auckland invites you to soak in the energy of the water. Rooms draw inspiration from the shapes and curves of oysters with natural hues and soothing tones. At this 5-Star Design Hotel’s rooftop bar, take in sweeping views of Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour paired with Mediterranean snacks and classic cocktails. Continue your culinary tour at the hotel’s Restaurant Esther where head chef Sean Connolly presents flavors of the French Riviera, Sicily and Morocco. 

@qtauckland

 Another dining highlight of your tour will surely be dinner with one of New Zealand’s famous former All Black rugby players. Rub shoulders with a former member of the All Blacks as you learn about the world’s leading rugby team, his personal victories and how passionate Kiwis are about their national sport. 

Fine dining for a weekend in Auckland   

When it comes to fine dining in Auckland, why not go all out at the famous Sugar Club? Located in the Sky Tower, The Sugar Club sits 53 floors above Auckland boasting views of the city and the Hauraki Gulf. In addition to the impressive views, the impressive Chef’s menu showcases sustainably sourced produce. You’ll be in good hands of Chef Peter Gordon who has been called “the ‘Godfather’ of fusion cuisine.” From sashimi to beef fillet and a plant-based tasting menu, a decadent evening is always in store at The Sugar Club. 

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Another option to pair fine dining with fabulous views is Sidart Restaurant. This New Zealand-Indian fusion restaurant offers imaginative cuisine including black truffle paneer, market fish tikka and crayfish and moilee sauce. Select a tasting menu from the five- or nine-course options with wine pairings. You may also opt for The Chef’s Table Experience to go behind the scenes and watch dishes being prepared in the kitchen and let the chef guide you through the menu. This exclusive dining experience, from Champagne on arrival to the final seventh course, is a memorable way to try the finest flavors.  

@sidart_auckland

Queen Street 

With one or two decadent dining experiences ticked off your bucket list, you’ll be ready to explore. You don’t have to venture far from the centrally located QT Auckland to find things to do in Auckland. Legendary and lively Queen Street in the Central Business District boasts high-end shops of international and local brands. Treat yourself to a designer bag and take a break in a café and watch the world go by. Extend your exploration with a visit to the nearby Auckland Art Gallery’s collection of international and New Zealand art on the edge of elegant Albert Park. On the other side of the park is Princes Street. Here, historic merchant’s houses from the late 1800s, now a heritage site, line the boulevard.  

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Parnell  

Continue your discovery of what to do in Auckland exploring nearby Parnell, one of Auckland’s affluent and oldest neighborhoods. Stroll the tree-lined streets past Edwardian townhouses, restored Victorian shops, boutiques, and cafes. If you’re in Parnell over a weekend, don’t miss La Cigale French Market. Voted Auckland’s ‘Best Food Market’ by Metro Magazine, the market invites you to take your time browsing fresh produce, pâtés, terrines and pastries. You’ll feel like you’re in Paris as you absorb the sights and heavenly aromas. Take a rest at one of the market’s communal tables to enjoy a latte and croissant. The nearby Parnell Rose Gardens with over 5,000 roses enhances your decadent discovery. 

Parnell’s Auckland War Memorial Museum is another recommendation of what to see in Auckland. View the historic exhibits including an 80-foot Māori war canoe dating from 1836. Current and upcoming special exhibits include Secrets of Stonehenge and Egypt: In the Time of Pharaohs. 

Waitemata Harbor Cruise  

After soaking in the city sites on your weekend in Auckland, take to the water. A Waitemata Harbor cocktail or dinner cruise will show you the city from a different vantage point. Cruises also conveniently depart from near the city center. You’ll soon realize why Waitemata means “sparkling waters” in the Māori language. Onboard, take in the skyline framed against volcanic peaks. Sail under the Harbor Bridge sipping on cocktails and nibbling canapes. Glide past the North Head, Bean Rock Lighthouse and Devonport’s historic naval base. 

Rangitoto and Waiheke Islands  

If you have time for a daytime cruise on your weekend in Auckland, why not set sail to the picturesque Rangitoto and Waiheke Islands? The volcanic Rangitoto Island is covered in native forests and lava caves and displays 360-degree views of Auckland harbor.  

Heading further east, a 40-minute ferry ride to Waiheke Island, the “Hamptons of New Zealand,” will delight you with pastoral splendor. Visit one of the more than 40 vineyards and olive groves. Sample the local products and take home a bottle or two. Waiheke also offers many trails ideal for a jaunt up to the cliff tops or down to the beaches. Art lovers take note: every two years, Sculpture on the Gulf is held on the Matiatia Coastal Walkway for you to bask in works of contemporary art surrounded by bucolic scenery.  

 Whether you’re in search of fine dining or photo-ops, history or high-end shops, a weekend in Auckland will leave you satisfied. Let us show you what we love about New Zealand.