Down at the southernmost tip of Africa, expansive farms converge with vine-friendly slopes and teeming seas – not to mention dishes shaped by arrivals from all over the globe. The resulting rich and unexpected food scene makes South Africa the ultimate destination for a gourmet foodie road trip, whether you’re sampling a 10-course tasting menu on a wine estate, or tucking into a rustic braai (barbecue) in the bush. 

Guests on Luxury Gold’s nine-day Spectacular South Africa tour, for example, will tuck into seafood at the sea-view Harbour Restaurant in Kalk Bay, before enjoying a locally-sourced dinner at the world-renowned Boschendal Wine Estate – then dine under the stars in Kruger National Park.  

The sheer beauty of South Africa’s scenery – from wave-lashed coastline to green mountain slopes and dry savanna – means dramatic views from many of its most famous restaurants, while the contents of your plate are often firmly rooted in the terrain around you. Here are some of the culinary stops that have made this country the food destination it is today. 

Fine dining capital 

The perfect place to start any foodie road trip is Cape Town. One of the world’s great gourmet cities, Cape Town is teeming with innovative chefs both homegrown and imported making headlines with their menus. Here, Luxury Gold guests enjoy a visit the Old Biscuit Mill, once a series of factories but now transformed into trendy bakeries, boutiques, jewelers and cult restaurants. One such eatery, The Potluck Club, is an upmarket local favourite, with modern, arty small plates from star chef Luke Dale Roberts (most famous for the now-shuttered Test Kitchen). Expect dishes like springbok tataki and mussels with braised beef tongue, with a down-to-earth atmosphere and great sunset views over the Lion’s Head peak. The Old Biscuit Mill’s food market, Neighbourgoods Market, is a hit with trendy locals, and a must-see on your visit. 

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A taste of the Winelands 

Credit: @boschendal on Instagram

Sitting among acres of vines glowing gold in the sunlight, you swirl your first jewel-bright taster of wine around the glass. A vineyard visit is a standout moment of any South Africa tour, and its Cape Winelands are not only a ravishing place to do it – all imposing mountains, undulating vineyards and quaint towns of boutiques and restaurants – they’re also a hub of exciting chef activity. Take Boschendal Estate, a working farm between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek where you can go horse riding, tour the kitchen gardens, indulge in a picnic or just come for the main event: a glorious farm-to-table lunch. Sitting out at the Werf Restaurant, a highlight of any foodie road trip with its incredible views of the countryside, you’ll taste the likes of flame-cooked asparagus, forest-reared Duroc pork and tandoor cauliflower – all part of what chef Eric Bulpitt calls “soil to fork” cuisine.  

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Destination restaurants  

Credit: @harbourhouse on Instagram

South Africa is a country of destination restaurants worth the detour. Venturing outside of Cape Town, you might head to the coastal suburbs for a slap-up seafood meal. The iconic Harbour House restaurant in Kalk Bay is on your South Africa itinerary, where head chef Ryan Lee Van Rooyen dishes up elegant sushi rolls, dressed oysters and show-stopping seafood platters. But you might also linger for La Colombe in Constantia, one of the world’s best fine dining restaurants where you’ll try intriguing dishes such as the Dove’s Nest, featuring eggshells you uncork to eat with a straw, and a tuna starter served in a tuna tin with the lid peeled back. Or travel to pretty Franschhoek in the winelands for salt-sugar-cured pork belly and amarula panna cotta at stylish local’s favourite, Reuben’s.  

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A braai in the bush 

Credit: @lionsandsgamereserve on Instagram

Safari trips aren’t renowned for their food, but a luxurious reserve like Kruger National Park’s Lion Sands will host some of the most memorable meals of your trip. One highlight at Lion Sands Tinga Lodge – the base for game drives on the Spectacular South Africa tour – is the Celebration Dinner, an atmospheric barbecue grilled up in the wilderness near the camp.

As part of a full-board stay, you and the other guests at this upmarket lodge will follow staff to a lantern-lit spot in the reserve, where expert chefs will grill game and fish over a traditional South African barbecue while you chat in the light of a roaring log fire. It’s served in the traditional style, with pap (polenta), salad and sheba (a traditional tomato-and-onion sauce). And don’t worry about big cats or wild dogs intruding on the feast – staff are discreetly positioned to look out for any carnivorous visitors attracted by the aroma.  

To enjoy a gourmet foodie road trip and taste the best of South Africa, along with magnificent hotels and exclusive experiences take a look at our Spectacular South Africa luxury journey.

Home to the Taj Mahal, Maharajah’s palaces, vibrant cities and exquisite desert retreats, India is renowned for its warm welcome and outstanding hospitality. Luxury travel in India is always an unforgettable experience, made even more exceptional by your Luxury Gold Travel Concierge.

To learn more about the highlights that await guests on our Imperial Rajasthan tour, and how your journey to India will surprise and delight, we spoke with Travel Concierge Viren.

“I’ve travelled to many countries around the world but there’s nowhere quite like India,” Viren says. Working as a Luxury Gold Travel Concierge since 2015, he’s very proud to share his beautiful country with guests. “As someone who represents India and Luxury Gold, my aim is that each and every guest has an amazing time.”

For travel inspiration: India destination guide

A luxurious world of contrasts

“India is a country of contrasts that will never bore you; something is happening somewhere all the time. The cities are bursting with life and activity and aromas. The desert is an oasis of calm and tranquillity.

“Imperial Rajasthan is a tour that celebrates India’s contrasts. The beauty of travelling to India with Luxury Gold is that you can enjoy the vibrancy, but also retreat and relax in the most magnificent hotels. We see big cities, smaller towns and the desert. We meet experts and locals and, of course, enjoy the most delicious cuisine.”

Discover this on: Imperial Rajasthan

Imperial Rajasthan

Celebrating India is all its vibrant glory, our Imperial Rajasthan luxury small group journey begins in the capital New Delhi. Over 13 days, enjoy the best of luxury travel in India. See Agra, home to the Taj Mahal and the pink city of Jaipur. The desert village of Khimsar provides a stunning oasis retreat while the grandeur of Jaisalmer’s fort never ceases to amaze. Blue hues in Jodhpur and Udaipur’s sublime lake Palaces complete your vivid, and unforgettable picture of India, each step paired with unrivalled hospitality and sensational cuisine.

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Your Travel Concierge is always by your side

“India is an amazing country – with a human touch,” says Viren. “People are welcoming here, and because it’s a country where English is not a foreign language, it is very easy to converse with locals. As your Travel Concierge, I’m always on hand to help guests understand local customs and assist with any cultural questions.

“In some smaller towns, people may have never seen somebody from the Western world. They will be keen to learn and know more about you. It’s quite endearing and special that curiosity is still there, despite the modernisation of India and the world.  Don’t be surprised if you are invited to an Indian wedding if happening in the same hotel where you are staying!

“This culturally vibrant country gives immense pleasure to guests who are into cultural exploration. Having your Travel Concierge to guide you through everything enables you to embrace the full vivid picture of India, whilst having an expert local by your side taking care of every detail.”

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Tailoring your tour

“With such a wealth of cultural riches to explore, there are many opportunities on Imperial Rajasthan where you can personalise your day,” says Viren. “Created with the Luxury Gold guest in mind, we offer thoughtfully curated options to explore your destination. I spend time talking to guests to get to know them and their preferences and explain the options to find the best fit.”

“On the first day of the tour, guests can choose to take a food walk with a local expert chef,” Viren tells us “This intimate tour gives guests a chance to explore Old Delhi on the street. You stop at different points and taste the the delicacies – it’s a fascinating and personal way to discover the history, people and culture.”

Old Delhi’s tangle of ancient streets and alleyways, filled with all kinds of shops and people is a bustling sight to behold. “Some of these outlets are more than 100 years old. To have been in business for a century speaks to the quality of the food, with recipes handed down through generations. And it’s not just about tasting. The chef also how the dishes are prepared, how the spices are mixed and answers all your questions.

Guests can also choose instead to visit the 12th century Qutub Minar and see the tallest brick minaret in the world. “For those that prefer to focus on history, there is the option of visiting a monument which is 1000 years old, which is also very special.”

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A wealth of options to personalize your day

When in Agra, home of the Taj Mahal, guests can choose between meeting locals on a Murgal Heritage walk, to learn about daily life in the ancient village. Alternatively, you may prefer to visit a private colonial bungalow and join the host family for high tea. To gain a deeper connection to Jaipur you can visit the fresh flower and spice market, or the white marble Birla Mandir Hindu temple to witness a traditional prayer ceremony. And in Udaipur, choose to cruise the serene waters of Lake Pichola or explore the colourful bazaar in the old city.

India’s contrasts reflected through exceptional hotels

“All hotels on Imperial Rajasthan are both luxurious and fascinating,” says Viren of this hallmark of luxury travel in India. “Each one offers something different. Rajasthan as a state is blessed with heritage properties. Many forts and palaces have been converted to spectacular hotels. This offers not only an exceptional hospitality experience, but you get to further see the historical and cultural contrasts of India.”

India’s penchant for hospitality paired with your Travel Concierge taking care of all the details ensures a sublime, flawless experience at every destination. “I hand each guest their key on arrival and their luggage is ready waiting in their rooms.,” Viren says. “This means you have even more time to enjoy the sensational rooms and amenities.”

Discover more of India’s exceptional hotels: Step Inside the Most Unique Luxury Retreats in India

Intrigue and luxury every night

“The Imperial in New Delhi, is a great example of a colonial hotel,” Viren says. “Then, when you step into the lobby of the ITC Mughal Resort and Spa in Agra, it looks like you are in a Mughal court.” Located close to the Taj Mahal and boasting beautiful gardens, the Mughal hotel perfectly recreates the splendour and majesty of the Mughal Dynasty.

In Khimsar the Welcome Hotel offers a historical sanctuary with oasis style grounds spread over eleven acres of sand dunes. While in Udaipur the Leela Palace Hotel is built in the style of a grand Maharaja’s palace, evoking the mystique of a bygone age and celebrating the best of luxury travel in India.

“Staying in a heritage hotel which is centuries old is always an exceptional experience and is a highlight of luxury trips to India” Viren tells us. “When guests know it was not built as a hotel, but as part of a nobleman’s property history, that makes it much more exclusive.”

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The Taj Mahal at sunrise

One of India’s most iconic monuments, the Taj Mahal is a must-see sight. Travel with Luxury Gold and you’ll see it in peace and calm. “Sunrise is always the best time to visit the majestic Taj Mahal and we ensure this moment for our guests,” says Viren. “The early morning has its own charm, and the crowds are sparse. The light is soft, it’s a photographer’s delight. Perfect for capturing this unforgettable monument to love.”

Explore Jaipur City Palace like a VIP

“The City Palace, now mostly a museum, was the residence of the former royal family, when Jaipur was founded,” explains Viren. “Part of the residence is a seven-storey palace, called the Moon Palace, and very few people are allowed to go inside.

Enjoy a private access tour around Jaipur City Palace including the maharajah’s personal living room, normally off limits to visitors. Savour an Indian inspired high tea on the regal terrace after viewing the spectacular handcrafted crystal table by René Lalique.

“Inside it is very beautiful with paintings dating back from the 18th century, ivory trinkets and an old elevatorlike the Maharaja’s used. From the top you get a unique view of the city. The experience of actually going to a place which is where others cannot go is the epitome of luxury travel in India and makes it very special.”

Dine amongst the dunes in Jaisalmer

Exquisite cuisine is a hallmark of all Luxury Gold tours. With many great culinary experiences to choose from, one of the most sublime on Imperial Rajasthan is dining among the dunes in Jaisalmer.

“One of the Imperial Desert cities, Jaisalmer is a very unique place,” says Viren. “It used to be part of the Silk Road. Everything in the city is yellow in colour because of the local yellow sandstone. The honey-coloured Fort has actually got 2000 people living inside.”

It is in this city that you will experience a truly unique dinner as the sun sets over the sand dunes. A sumptuous nomadic banquet is served under the desert stars as local musicians play traditional tunes into the gentle breeze of the night. “You’re sitting under the stars and it’s quiet and suddenly you hear the sounds coming from the background and there’s a musician playing here,” says Viren. “It’s an unforgettable moment.”

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No ask too great

Whilst following an expertly crafted itinerary, the tour allows plenty of time to tailor to your individual preferences. And your Travel Concierge is on hand to help with that in any way possible. “Some people choose to get up early to see sights not scheduled in the tour. I help with research, planning and arranging transport, there is nothing I do not know about the area. I also know the best spots that you may not find in a guidebook, for tailored experiences and special occasions.”

“I’m also your expert for dinner reservations and recommendations during your free time. If you like food with flavours, there’s there’s nothing better than India and the vegetarian food is wonderful.”

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Elevating the everyday

“Every step of the way we look to do that extra something,” says Viren. “I really get to know my guests be able to shape ideas and suggestions. Through my expert knowledge and passion, both for India and for our guests, I elevate the every day.”

“I like to treat guests to local rum, as India is actually one of the best sugar cane producing countries. Guests are often surprised at how good it tastes and keen to try more. It is these pockets of local knowledge that make a big difference to their experience.”

“With many repeated guests who love and trust Luxury Gold, the challenging is to make everything even better than before!”

To indulge in the delights of luxury travel in India, take a look at our exquisite collection of small group journeys.

No journey to Italy is complete without walking sun drenched vineyards and sipping limited edition vintages. For a taste of Tuscany to savor forever you’re invited to the charming Guardastelle Estate in San Gimignino to join the owners for a personal and private wine tasting tour.

We had the privilege to speak with Fausto, owner and wine producer of the Guardastelle Estate to learn what goes into producing a certified wine, harvest predictions and how to perfect the art of wine tasting.

Discover this on: Ultimate Italy

Exclusive wine, with a personal touch

“Guardastelle Estate is considered one of the smallest establishments in the area,” Fausto explains. “We have 12 acres of vineyards plus five acres of olive trees from which we also produce extra virgin olive oil.

“We produce five wines in small quantities so, we are very exclusive. For two of our vintages, we produce about 6000 bottles each, and only 3000 for the other three types. And they are only available here – you won’t find our wines in stores, restaurants or the nearest town.

“At Guardastelle, as a boutique winery we’ve always been focused on people coming to our farm, to see firsthand the vineyards and try the wines. Each bears the DOCG certification, a sign of excellence and the most important certification of Italian wines.”

For travel inspiration read our Italy destination guide

DOCG – the elite classification

DOCG or Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita is the is the highest classification Italian wines can be awarded. The classification means that there are controlled production methods (controllata) and guaranteed wine quality (garantita) with each bottle.

This includes regulations such as no irrigation, maximum vineyard elevation, and regulations on ageing and maximum alcohol levels.

A private tour

As a guest of Luxury Gold, you’ll enjoy a private tour of the vineyards and the wine cellar. You’ll hear all about the production process and enjoy a taste of Tuscany. “We’ll explain what kind of varieties we have, and why we have these varieties relating to the certification to the DOCG and part of the production.

“For the tasting we present three wines from the current the vintage. These are usually the three DOCGs – the vernaccia white wine which is the local specialty, and the chiantis.”

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A boutique family business

“This is a family business, so we are involved in all the processes since from the winemaking to the tasting,” says Fausto. “This also dictates how to make the wines. We are a very small farm, so it is not possible to harvest the grapes with the machine for example, so we do it by hand.”

“We’ve no official record but architects say that the farmhouse is probably from the middle of the 1400’s. This is because that the walls were made with a specific technique which is the same used to build the famous towers of San Gimignano town.

“My wife’s family purchased it in the middle of the 1980’s. From the young age of 21, she restarted the vineyard and wine production with three classic DOCG wines that she has now produced for almost 30 years. The estate has also produced extra virgin olive oil from the start.

“In 2017 we started to work on a couple of new wines which were born in 2021. So now we have the five typologies of wines.”

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True Chianti and Vernaccia

“San Gimignano is in the chianti wine region, a wine which has been produced in Italy for about five centuries,” says Fausto. “To preserve the original characteristics of Italian winemaking and its wines, the government introduced regulations to keep a high standard quality product. This is the DOCG and is the certification that allows us to call our wine chianti.”

“Chianti must be made with a minimum of 75% of Sangiovese (a grape), and then there are few other varieties that we are allowed to use to blend. Even though it is possible to make a chianti from 100% Sangiovese, usually they are made with a blend of grapes.”

All the wines produced by Tenuta Guardastelle bear this important DOCG certification. Some 78 red wines across Italy (including chianti) are on the list. There is however only one white wine included, the Vernaccia di San Gimignano.

Vernaccia di San Gimignano is a native grape variety with ancient historical origins. Renowned for its remarkable ageing capacity, it makes an excellent aperitif, pairs well with legumes and is exquisite with white meats.

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Manual harvest

“The DOCG regulations do not dictate how to harvest, whether by hand or machinery, or how to press the grapes. So, these methods depend entirely on the size of the farm,” Fausto explains.

“As we are small, we do a manual harvest, which is also better anyway for the grape’s quality. This helps to produce a natural, rather high sugar content in the berries, so that the DOCG standards are easily met.”

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It’s all in the timing

“The DOGC does regulate the days that you can harvest, although the time frame is very large. The time to harvest is dependent on the varieties and it depends a lot on the weather,” Fausto says. “We know by the experience that the harvest time is around the beginning of September for the white grapes and middle third week of September for the red varieties.

“So, a few days before the planned harvest we start to control the grapes. We go in the vineyards and pick a few from all over the field. The grapes are then mixed together, because different parts of the vineyards can have slightly different maturation, before making an average of the sugar content.”

“We also taste them – with experience you know from their softness if they’re ready. Then we look at the weather forecast to see that maybe these grapes need a week but if the weather is going to be bad, then we may need to harvest them in a couple of days.

“This, a taste of Tuscany, is probably one of the best parts. Because it’s almost ready. It’s such a great feeling – every year is a new project with a new vintage.”

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Time to mature – a unique minerality

“Some of these wines take up to three years to be ready,” Fausto explains. “So, we will harvest the year’s vintages around the start of October, and the white will start to serve as a wine tasting in almost two years. And the Chianti about four years.

“This is our personal choice because of the composition of the soil. Here the soil has a high minerality that gives a very high freshness to the wine, so it needs longer to mature.

“So, for example, not all the vernacchio’s of the area are the same, and we usually don’t have the youngest of the vernacchio possible to taste. Because the other Tuscan wineries and vineyards don’t have such a high minerality, the life of their vernaccio is much shorter.”

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Tasting tips

“We always guide guests through the tasting, a taste of Tuscany” says Fausto. “We explain the three types of analysis. First is the visual, to check the color if the wine is clear or cloudy, and we show you how to do it with the white napkin on the back of the glass.

“Then comes smell. Here we don’t say everything because we could stay a full day talking about it! We do tell you the categories that you can smell in a wine, depending on the variety. For example, vegetables or fruit. Then lastly, we have taste and we help you get deeper into the analysis. Every wine actually had different characteristics, or even if similar there are always some slight differences.

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Practice makes perfect

“Wine tasting is like learning a new language,” Fausto concludes. “You need to train and to try many different wines to try to understand the different flavors and tastes that different varieties can produce. The characteristics of, for example, a Chardonnay grape, when grown in Tuscany or other parts of Italy or the world are not the same. So keep practicing!”

To delight in a taste of Tuscany for yourself in this stunning chianti wine region, take a look at our Ultimate Italy small group journey