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It’s official: Internet booking sites are the worst. Which means travel agents are back in a big way, to such a degree that the crème de la crème among them are so selective that they’ll work with only a small group of card-carrying members.

We talked to the top dogs at four very different membership travel companies to find out what kind of VIP hook ups they’ll get you—and how much hand-holding you can expect along the way.

Fischer Travel

Courtesy of The Tailor  Nathan Dyer

Source:  Stacy Fischer Rosenthal, president

The Gist: Founded almost 54 years ago by her father, Bill Fischer—who got his clients into sold-out spots like the Hotel du Cap in Antibes in the ’80s—this family-run business is as exclusive as a club gets. “We have a very serious vetting process,” says Fischer Rosenthal.

The Membership: You might want to sit down for this: a $100,000 initiation fee, plus an annual $25,000 renewal fee, plus service fees for all trip planning. And that’s only if you’re accepted. Right now, Fischer has just 175 members.

The Claim to Fame: One-on-one tennis lessons with John McEnroe, a private tour of the Egyptian pyramids, Christmas dinner cooked by a Michelin-starred chef—you name it, Fischer Rosenthal can do it. If she told us her team could move mountains, we’d almost believe her.

Hand-Holding Quotient: Next-level. “My clients will never check in at a front desk, they will never fill out any forms, they will never have a moment when their trip isn’t absolutely seamless.”

Essentialist

Courtesy of Essentialist

Source: Joan Roca, founder

The Gist: Former Travelocity exec Roca ditched digital and went private bespoke in 2017 after realizing travelers didn’t need more choice—they needed more curation. His cabal of experts includes more than 75 journalists and editors specializing in various destinations around the world.

The Membership: A flat fee of $1,400 per household per year includes unlimited travel-planning services by a designated “travel designer” who knows everything about you, from what you like to eat to what you like to drive.

The Claim to Fame: Ultra-insider experiences are the name of Roca’s game, whether it’s the best paella in Majorca at a secret restaurant few locals know or a private dinner in a Venetian palazzo. “It’s not about the price tag,” he says. “It’s about discovering things that are under the radar and unique.”

Hand-Holding Quotient: Minimal. “Our client doesn’t require a lot of hand-holding,” Roca says. “They don’t want people standing at the door of their hotel room every morning. They just want to go.”

Courtesy of Marchay

Source:  Karl Backlund, cofounder

The Gist: With partner Jon Ein of private equity firm Foundry Capital, Backlund devised not an agency but a “travel community of like-minded individuals,” in which pay-for-play travel agents wouldn’t be welcome.

The Membership: $4,500 for a full annual membership with unlimited bespoke trip planning , or $1,750 for a one-trip planning fee. “We admit limited members to make sure the service standards are maintained,” Backlund says.

The Claim to Fame: Seamless execution of even the most complicated itineraries, whether it’s an island-hopping extravaganza in the Caribbean via private jet and yacht or a Scottish golf spree with 11 tee times in 11 days.

Hand-Holding Quotient: That’s up to you. “Our clients appreciate a significant portion of discovery—the thirst for exploration is definitely there,” Backlund says. But he’ll still hold your hand if you ask.

Inspirato Pass

Source:  Brent Handler, founder

The Gist: Handler is like the Thomas Edison of travel clubs . He invented the destination club with Exclusive Resorts in 2002, then went on to create Inspirato , a similar but more affordable club in 2011. The Inspirato Pass , his latest brainchild, is a subscription app.

The Membership: $2,500 per month gets you household booking rights to exclusive trips, events and accommodations—all at no added cost. The catch? After booking a trip, you have to take it before you can reserve another.

The Claim to Fame: There’s the usual hotel suites and over-the-top villas, but what gets really interesting is Inspirato Pass ’s access to marquee events and experiences, from US Open seats to a European river cruise.

Hand-Holding Quotient: Surprisingly high, for an app. “All Inspirato Pass trips include pre-trip planning by our expert travel designers, including custom itineraries,” says Handler. Impressive.

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The Luxury Travel Agency specializes in creating exquisite vacations and providing executive business travel solutions. We pride ourselves on being trusted advisors to clients all around the world.

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Having personally explored over 90 countries, experienced numerous world-class hotels and resorts, and indulged in extraordinary adventures, we understand the essence of creating unforgettable moments that fulfill your bucket list dreams. Whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, seeking an escape from the winter chill, commemorating a significant milestone, or simply craving a rejuvenating weekend getaway, we are here to assist you every step of the way.

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Efficient and indulgent: We specialize in facilitating your business travel needs. From getting you to your important meetings and engagements swiftly, to providing the perfect amenities for relaxation after a productive day of work, we've got you covered. Trust us to deliver convenience and comfort for your business travels.

We booked our 25th anniversary celebration trip with The Luxury Travel Agency and we could not have been happier. We are already planning our next trip and will absolutely book through The Luxury Travel Agency. Lisa and Brian Long Marne Michigan

Every trip I’ve booked has proven to be a wonderful time. All details professionally considered. I always know I’ll be well taken care of. TLTA is the best in the industry that I’ve come across. Sarah Ontario, Canada

VIP service and amenities when booked with The Luxury Travel Agency are fantastic; they even remembered my wife’s birthday – what a wonderful surprise – champagne and cake! Thank you! Markus Hong Kong

The team at The Luxury Travel Agency worked wonders on making our dream honeymoon a reality. From start to finish, they were there to help guide us and to make sure everything went so perfectly! We'll be using them again and again! Joshua New York

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11 Unforgettable Milestone Birthday Destinations

Looking for the perfect way to celebrate your milestone birthday? Look no further than The Luxury Travel Agency! Our expert team understands that this is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and we're here to help you make it unforgettable. With options for adventure, relaxation, culture, and romance, we've got everything you need to create the celebration of a lifetime.

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At The Luxury Travel Agency (The LTA), we are dedicated to delivering nothing but the best. Our commitment to providing unparalleled luxury experiences means our team has embarked on multiple journeys since January, exploring the most opulent destinations and properties across the globe. Our mission is to experience firsthand the luxury, comfort, and unique charm of each destination, allowing us to curate the perfect itineraries for you.

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Planning luxury travel on your own is not an easy task.

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Our experts make planning your next luxury vacation easy and hassle-free. Our luxury travel agency advisors are trusted to help couples and families relax and reconnect through unforgettable vacations, year after year.

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Based on what you shared and applying our know-how, we'll use our proprietary method to make destination recommendations and design an elegant luxury vacation.

Casuals, resort-wear, outdoor gear, or Hawaiian print. That will be your toughest decision. Then it's time to sit back, relax and travel effortlessly.

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Where to go in 2024

Here are ten destinations that are calling out to us, from the wild spaces and intimate camps of Botswana, to the art cities and Roman ruins of Italy.

Our spring edition of Audley Traveler

Within its pages, our specialists share their latest travel tips and ideas, including three ways to explore Japan and a coastal road trip through South Africa.

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Inspire your travels

Browse our latest inspiration pages to start planning your next adventure. We arrange trips to more than 80 destinations throughout the world and across each continent.

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The tours featured throughout our website are intended to give you ideas for what's possible when you travel with us. Treat them simply as inspiration, because your trip will be created individually by one of our specialists to match your tastes and budget.

Ultimate luxury tour of Australia

17 days from $38,900pp

Deluxe grand tour of Japan

21 days from $32,050pp

Luxury Botswana safari

10 days from $31,995pp

Luxury New Zealand self-drive tour

14 days from $29,890pp

Skeleton Coast flying safari

10 days from $25,910pp

Ultimate Alaska guided wildlife safari

13 days from $24,695pp

Luxury northern Tanzania safari

11 days from $24,450pp

Antarctica, South Georgia & the Falklands

22 days from $22,995pp

Ultimate Kenya safari: Amboseli, Meru & Masai Mara

13 days from $22,830pp

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Our philosophy is a simple one. To offer you the best travel experience possible. We believe the only way to achieve this is to have genuine experts for each and every destination, we call them specialists. They'll design a trip around you, to match your interests, tastes and budget, and created with an absolute commitment to quality.

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The sophisticated travelers luxury vacation connection, discover a world of unparalleled luxury with our premier virtuoso luxury travel advisors. we specialize in creating seamless, personalized travel experiences tailored to your desires. we ensure every aspect of your journey, from flights and accommodations to exclusive tours, is flawlessly planned., benefit from our elite status in the luxury travel industry with complimentary upgrades, premium business and first-class airfare offers, privileged access, and unique amenities designed to delight your family., our award-winning service has been recognized by the discovery channel, nbc today show, conde nast traveler, forbes magazine, and the wall street journal. since 1998, we have been the go-to luxury travel agency for discerning travelers and families., testimonials.

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The luxury travel experts

The world is vast, full of wonders. But information engulfs us. See this, do that, don’t miss this. It seems the more choice there is, the more overwhelmed we feel. What’s more, you’re never asked how you want to feel . In fact, you’re rarely asked anything. That’s not us. We are people. People who value human connection and thrive on connecting you to our vast world. A company of people renowned for planning remarkable travel experiences.

So let’s begin. Let’s do something remarkable.

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A journey into italy, a journey into greece, kenya: the ultimate family safari, a journey into morocco, south iceland, golden circle & reykjavik: from land…, cambodia & vietnam: lively cities and quieter isles, california: the ultimate luxury west coast discovery, ultimate bhutan: a luxurious & cultural retreat, ultimate egypt: culture on the nile.

Trekking across remote parts of the country, navigating by compass and sight, I was rewarded with memories that will last a lifetime

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We have explored some incredible places and had unique adventures that could have only been made possible with their guidance

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Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful. Black Tomato is top notch – you will not be disappointed

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As a solo traveler, Black Tomato did an excellent job of allowing me to experience Cuba and the Cuban people in a truly creative way

Black Tomato will change the way you travel

Micah, Egypt

Glamping, hiking, icebergs, gourmet food. Not sure how my trip could have been any better

Jimmy, Greenland

A dream come true – from small riads to a mountain fortress and a desert oasis. Black Tomato delivered

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Our Purpose

Inspiring people through remarkable travel experiences, what we do and why we do it.

Since our founding in 2005, Black Tomato has always been about creating remarkable, tailor-made trips for travelers around the world. Tom and James – our co-founders – know this better than anyone. You can meet them in our new video.

Our guide to luxury travel

Luxury vacations are personal. They mean something different for each and every one of us. For some, luxury is hiking in peaceful solitude through a remote corner of the desert, while for others it’s the indulgence of sipping cocktails aboard a private yacht, sailing gently through the Mediterranean. Whatever floats your boat, so to speak.

Our team of seasoned travelers are connoisseurs of luxury, curating unparalleled experiences, tailor-made tours and bespoke adventures. Whether you seek the opulence of a secluded villa in the Tuscan hills or the thrill of an exclusive safari in the heart of Africa, we’ll craft a journey that exceeds your expectations.

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Intimate. Astounding. Wonder-filled and wildly fun. 

Those are just a few ways to describe a vacation designed by The Departure. But that’s just the beginning—because how we’ll describe your vacation depends entirely on what you’re looking for. Our widely traveled and well-connected team of experts will personalize your experience from beginning to end. 

Take Off on Your Own Custom-Crafted Journey 

There is a better way to plan your next vacation—and it starts with The Departure. Work with your own personal travel advisor to craft a customized journey that surprises and delights you at every turn. Our vetted travel partners deliver exceptional experiences in the world’s most spectacular places, and our list of curated properties—where you get extra special perks!—will make even the most discerning hotel aficionado drool. From safari adventures to sultry island escapes, we’ve got you covered.

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Meet MacKenzie Brumley

I founded my luxury travel agency to bring more wonder back to our vacations. Because a vacation isn’t just a chance to escape someplace new, it’s not just an excuse to #digitaldetox for a few days … it’s an opportunity to discover! But it’s hard to muster up that feeling of intrepid exploring when you’re spending hours standing in line with other tourists, or checking into a big chain hotel that could be in Anywhere, U.S.A. My job as your personal travel advisor is to help you uncover the particular joys, surprises, and magic of your destination (hint: it’s not found in the pages of your guidebook!). It’s a lesson I learned long ago in a posh Parisian hotel … let me tell you more:

Founder of The Departure

Happy Travelers

-cindy, destination: maldives.

MacKenzie was an absolute joy to work with. From the beginning she worked to pinpoint and prioritize all our vacation necessities. In addition to organizing and scheduling our activities she worked to provide feedback and additional information on making our honeymoon special. At every step she ensured we were informed and aware of any requirements. The trip was unforgettable and stress free. We would highly recommend her services to anyone looking for a great experience and seeking to do no planning. We will be using her in our future adventures.

-Caroline, Destination: Hawaii

This was the second trip MacKenzie has planned for me and my husband. She was super flexible in dealing with our changing needs. When we found out we were pregnant, she made sure all the activities we planned in Hawaii were safe and allowed for pregnant participants. She even sent us a bottle of sparkling cider as we celebrated our vacation turned Babymoon. She always takes into consideration our budget and needs. I am always nervous booking travel in places I've never been before but each time we are in a great and safe spot with tons of fun things to do. I will always be using MacKenzie going forward for big trips.

- Gabrielle Destination: Mexico

"MacKenzie was extremely helpful every step of the way of the way. We approached her with no plan of what we wanted to do & just a destination; she found us the perfect hotel, vineyards, excursions. We received exclusive benefits at the hotel for booking through MacKenzie that definitely heightened the experience of our stay. We’re already looking into our next adventure and can’t wait to take advantage of The Departure’s extensive resources!"

- Liana Destination: Switzerland

MacKenzie was a huge help in organizing our dream honeymoon. From coordinating hard-to-book transfers to recommending one of the most delicious restaurants we have ever been to (and securing a fabulous table to boot!), she was a wonderful partner in travel. Thank you, MacKenzie!

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WHERE WILL YOUR JOURNEY TAKE YOU?

Are you a discerning traveler seeking to explore and discover the world’s most incredible destinations? Do you dream of adventure on the African plains or a life-changing expedition through the Arctic? Perhaps you are in a stage of your life where you seek peace, tranquility , and a relaxing escape to your private island where azure waters meet pristine white sand beaches. Boutique Travel Advisors ™ is a luxury travel agency based out of Scottsdale, Arizona specializes in designing once-in-a-lifetime experiences for individuals, families, and teams.

Stop settling for plain uninspired vacations. Instead, discover how bespoke travel experiences explicitly crafted for YOU will transform your travels. Let our luxury Virtuoso travel agency show you the way.

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If you seek unique travel experiences that capture the essence of a destination, immersing you in the culture and connecting you with local customs and traditions, our itineraries will excite and inspire you. Our goal is to ensure travelers have meaningful and captivating experiences that are as unique as you are.

BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH BOUTIQUE TRAVEL ADVISORS ™

Every client is a VIP, and every trip is meant to be remarkable . No matter where in the world you travel, you will be received as an honored guest and provided access to exclusive privileges, complimentary benefits , cutting-edge technology, and unmatched service.

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Boutique travel advisors ™, elevated experiences.

Your preferences and interests are unique, and we believe you deserve to work with a travel company that can guide you through designing and executing extraordinary experiences. When you partner with Boutique Travel Advisors ™ , you will work directly with our team of expert Virtuoso travel advisors to create fully customized itineraries based on your interests and budget.

EXCEPTIONAL PARTNERS

To provide you with unmatched service and design incredible trips, we work exclusively with highly vetted suppliers worldwide. As a Luxury Virtuoso Travel Agency, our partnerships with the most respected and knowledgeable suppliers worldwide allow our guests access to special amenities, VIP experiences, and exceptional service. We maintain a solid commitment to eco-stewardship and responsible travel experiences. Boutique Travel Advisors ™ is privileged to be a part of Virtuoso, which gives us access to the world’s most respected hotels, cruise lines, and tour operators.

To provide you with unmatched service and design incredible trips, we work exclusively with highly vetted suppliers worldwide. We maintain a solid commitment to eco-stewardship and responsible travel experiences. Boutique Travel Advisors ™ is privileged to be a part of the exclusive Virtuoso travel consortium, which gives us access to the world’s most respected hotels, cruise lines, and tour operators.

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We recognize that your travel needs will vary. Therefore, we offer several options for working together. Whether you seek a weekend getaway , a multi-generational adventure , a world cruise , or a month-long European immersion , we have a design package that fits your needs. In addition, we offer a convenient annual membership plan for clients who travel multiple times per year and provide a multi-year travel roadmap.

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Join us as we uncover the rich tapestry of Greece, a land where history and culture thrive

A Guide to Packing Your Patience This Travel Season

Chloe Cottingham 2024-05-23T09:50:38-07:00 May 20th, 2024 |

By packing your patience this summer, you can turn potential setbacks into opportunities.

Group Adventure

“We recently traveled to Norway for our annual group trip of 12 and then onto Denmark with BTA. This was our third trip using BTA services and once again they did not disappoint. We joke that our trips are like adult summer camp…There is zero thinking required when BTA is...

Girls trip to Portugal

“Just returned from a week long girls trip to Portugal. What an amazing experience! Janet and her team did a great job organizing tours, choosing the best hotels, and giving us great information on restaurants and areas to check out on our “free” days. Boutique Travel uses an app that...

Paris and London Multigen

“Angie created the perfect experience for our family, which included our 3 teenagers and a parent in her 70s, to Paris and London. The guides were engaging and extremely knowledgeable. The drivers were also wonderful! The hotel choices were perfect for what we needed! Thank you again to BTA! We...

20th Wedding Anniversary

“We were also lucky enough to take a 7 night cruise on a small ship with the Seabourn cruise line. What a wonderful experience… Not only was the ship beautiful, the attention to detail from the staff was above and beyond what we expected… Additionally, as a professional artist in...

Family vacation to Europe

“We just returned from the most wonderful family vacation to Europe…We have two teenage boys so we needed an active vacation and we have one really picky eater…We ziplined through the Black Forest, canoed through the canals in Strasbourg and hiked up mountains for the most fantastic views. Her assistance...

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BTA planned an amazing trip…

“BTA planned an amazing trip for my friend and I to Cambodia and Thailand. As two active senior ladies traveling together we were nervous to be going to such a far off destination without a group but wanted to explore on our time in a relaxed atmosphere. BTA organized a...

We had a great trip to Slovenia and northern Croatia

“We had a great trip to Slovenia and northern Croatia. We would have never thought to visit these countries prior to BTA and they orchestrated a fantastic trip for our family , including a 12 and 15 year old. We had the best of a true outdoor and active experience...

We had an amazing trip…

“We had an amazing trip to Australia, New Zealand and Hawaii, much to the credit of Angie and Janet with Boutique Travel Advisors. They helped us frame up the trip with hotels based on our preferences, provided transfers, and recommended excursions to meet our interests, while making sure we had...

INCREDIBLE!!

“It was mid March when I realized our family’s dream of a European getaway was going to stay a virtual pin on my Pinterest travel board for the foreseeable future. We lived for weeks glued to our television, in a pandemic purgatory wondering if we would ever travel again. When...

Highly Recommend BTA!

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7 of the Best Luxury Travel Agencies

When it comes to travel, luxury is not just about first-class tickets and staying in luxe hotels across the world. Here, luxury is defined by exclusivity – being able to experience something that is not easily accessible to most.  With years of experience, and the right connections these luxury travel agencies can tailor a holiday for you and turn any trip into a trip of a lifetime.  Ready for your next adventure? Bookmark any of these travel agencies to elevate your next holiday.

What They’re Known For: Truly bespoke holidays that are catered exclusively to you. No two trips are ever the same.

Voyemo is ideal if you want a travel agency that handles all planning, organizing, and management in addition to booking destinations. Tours for offbeat destinations such as Peru, Ecuador, Galapagos, Vietnam, Madagascar, Zambia and Botswana are just some of the many they offer.

Are you looking to explore the most beautiful camps in Africa? They can arrange private flights between camps to cut travel time. Do you want to experience Japan like no other? They can arrange for a stay in a Ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn with Japanese-style rooms, architecture, and furniture.

Voyemo will also listen to your wants and needs before designing a custom tour in selected locations to make your dream vacation a reality. You can opt to include activities like daily yoga and meditation classes, visit architecturally-stunning destinations, or a spiritual retreat. You can also request add-on services such as a personal photographer for that perfect Instagram post, a fitness trainer or yoga teacher so you don’t miss your sessions even on a holiday, or even a personal chef to cater to your dietary restrictions. The beauty of Voyemo is that you can make any trip truly your own.

Oh, and did we mention that they are one of the best LGBTQ -friendly travel agencies?

2. Ampersand Travel

What they’re known for: A luxury tour operator created to provide a unique and fresh approach to tailor-made travel to the Indian Subcontinent, Far East, Southeast Asia, the British Isles, and Southern Africa.

Honeymoons, Culinary Tours, Spa Holidays, or Wildlife Safari – Ampersand Travel offers all of these and more. They offer tours in the Indian subcontinent (including Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal, and the Maldives), Southeast Asia (including Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Singapore), East Asia (including Japan and China), and Africa (South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Zambia, and Zimbabwe).

With a £3,000 minimum spend, they give you a personalized itinerary of your entire trip and 24/7 assistance during the duration of your trip.

ampersandtravel.com

3. Remote Lands

What they’re known for: Taking Americans to explore Asia luxuriously with personalized trips.

The beauty of Asia is that there is so much to discover and see. It is a land filled with so many different kinds of culture, food, and history. When spoiled with so many options, planning a trip to this side of the world can be pretty overwhelming. Thankfully, Remote Lands simplifies that process for you. They can even introduce you to parts of Asia you never knew existed.

Want to try the many different cuisines of Asia? Done. Want to experience some of Asia’s palatial hideaways and secluded beaches? Done. Maybe, you want to experience staying in some of the most opulent hotels around the continent? They can do that too!

In fact, they even have a partnership with Aman Jet Expeditions where you can customize your journey aboard an Airbus ACJ 318 private jet and fly to your destination in complete luxury.

remotelands.com

See also: Top 10 Bucket List Destinations

4. Fischer Travel

What they’re known for: An exclusive, members-only travel agency that can arrange for some of the most exclusive experiences in the world.

If you have some spare US$150,000 for membership and an extra US$25,000 every year for renewal – then we definitely recommend getting on Fischer Travel’s list! Even though they have been around for 50 years now, there are still only 175 people who have access to their exclusive holidays.

Looking for truly exclusive experiences such as a Christmas Dinner cooked by a Michelin Star Chef or One-on-one tennis lessons with John McEnroe? Only a company like Fischer Travel can arrange that. They also vouch for the fact that none of their clients waste time filling out forms, or queuing for check-ins. Going on a holiday with Fischer Travel is like getting a VVIP treatment all throughout your trip.

fischertravel.com

5. Black Tomato

What they’re known for: No deposits, no fixed itineraries, no extra fees – just bespoke luxury traveling.

Are you looking for inspiration for your next holiday but you’re not ready to commit yet? Black Tomato is an agency of your choice. If you’re worried about engaging an agency because of high minimum spends, high service charges, or mandatory down payments – Black Tomato does not charge any of these. They take pride in being true travel enthusiasts who will create an itinerary for you from the ground up, you only pay once you’re 100% satisfied with the itinerary. Think ninja lessons in Tokyo, an afternoon at a gladiator school for kids, volcano boarding in Nicaragua, or archaeological excavations in Egypt. 

Not sure where to go? While they do have tours across the world, they also have a handy list of the best places to travel to according to the season. Just speak to their travel consultant to shortlist a couple of destinations catered to your budget and lifestyle.

The key highlight of Black Tomato is in their “Rider” feature. Inspired by the entertainment industry, The ‘Rider’ draws its name from the personal list of things that musicians and actors request for their green rooms and hotels – from chess boards to nut-free foods. Whether it’s a snack for your kids, treats for your pets, or private gym equipment across your entire stay. Just let them know your list of necessities and they will ensure it’s with you throughout the journey.

blacktomato.com

6. Trafalgar

What they’re known for: An industry-leader and multi-award-winning travel agency that offers customized tours in almost every part of the world.

With over 70 years of experience, Trafalgar surely knows how to create unforgettable vacations. A brand that has been trusted by over 5 million guests, caters to different kinds of tours depending on your group size and budget. Whether you’re looking for a Euro-tour, American holiday, Middle Eastern holiday, or Asian Holiday – Trafalgar has access to almost every corner of the world.

All Trafalgar tours are led by expert local guides passionate about their destination. Think of it as having an insider’s view and being able to experience any place like a local. Add a little more budget to your trip, and you might even get the chance to do specialty tours such as behind-the-scenes access to some of the world’s top museums. With Trafalgar, you also have the opportunity to stay in unique types of accommodations such as wineries, and castles, or even spend a night in an igloo. They’re also one of the few agencies that are dedicated to responsible traveling.

trafalgar.com

7. Roar Africa

What they’re known for: Luxurious safari trips in Africa and pulling off near-impossible requests.

The founder of Roar Africa, Deborah Calmeyer, is known as the elite safari planner. For beginners, planning a safari trip may seem daunting; but if you have Roar Africa by your side, you have nothing to worry about. Roar Africa is known for providing exceptional and exclusive insider access (frequently built upon Deborah’s lifelong relationships in Africa). They’ve been able to pull through many emergencies such as being stuck in a customs office, arranging for a doctor in an isolated place like Angara Mara, or even rearranging a flight for a last-minute cancellation.

Another great thing is that Roar Africa combines travel with giving back. They can take you on a tailor-made African tour that educates you about Africa’s last remaining wildlife and wilderness while collaborating with local communities and organizations to provide health, housing, employment, conservation, and gender empowerment skills. Every holiday you take with Roar Africa is a step towards helping the local communities.

roarafrica.com

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The Travel Advisor—an Unsung Hero of the Pandemic—and the Key to Safe Travels in 2021 and Beyond

We're making the case to never book a luxe vacation without the help of a travel advisor again.

Brownell Travel Vice President Beth Flowers was checking up on the company's partners and guides in Africa during January 2020 and started noticing many people wearing masks across larger cities, like Johannesburg, by the time she flew back to the U.S. She and other travel advisors began having clients stranded at cruise ports or in other countries during this time, and the luxury travel advisors shifted their role from planning fabulous vacations to being healthcare and insurance advisors, offering crisis management, and doing whatever they could to bring their clients home safe and sound in those first few months of 2020.

"Once everyone was back home, we were in total lockdown, and so we transitioned again to working with our partners as client advocates," Flowers says. "The 'client's advocate' was the phrase that encapsulated the first few months of the year for us as we pivoted and postponed trips, dealt with refunds, and worked through technicalities in terms and conditions for them. If you hired an advisor, you didn't have to deal with any of that."

Though the role of the transactional travel agent is nearly all but defunct, the luxury travel advisor is more in-demand than ever before. Flowers says her team is not only buzzing with new bookings into 2022, which is anticipated to sell out faster than ever before, but also with first-time clients who don't want to make the mistake of traveling during this era without the peace of mind a seasoned travel advisor brings, whether they learned that first-hand or not.

Why You Should Consider Working with a Travel Agent

"We've been working in this climate for 16 months now and know exactly who and where is performing and who isn't," says Flowers. "Fine wine is the closest association I can make here. When it comes to travel right now, it's like someone picking up a 100-page book by a sommelier when you really need someone to cut through the clutter and select the best vintage for your meal. That's what we are constantly doing: listening to clients to understand the expectations they have for the experience they want while helping them find a possible match, all the while helping them manage their expectations during these times."

Flowers says the greatest benefit to working with a travel advisor is the relationship they have with partners, properties, and hoteliers across the globe. And not only that, they often have relationships with locals who offer unique experiences that you won't be able to find online.

Erik Ornitz, the general manager for new ventures at TripAdvisor agrees, which is why his team has recently launched Reco , a digital travel advisory platform that connects travelers with a highly curated selection of "trip designers" based on their expertise of specific destinations. Ornitz says working with a travel advisor offers access to experiences that you simply can't get anywhere else. One of Reco's trip designers, for example, specializes in wine travel across Portugal and Spain, and those who book with him will arrive at these vineyards as his friend and are offered intimate, special experiences that they would have never been able to have if they hadn't worked with a specialist in this area.

"TripAdvisor is the most-visited travel site in the world, and with that, we get a lot of insights and data, as well as get to talk to the travelers themselves," says Ornitz. While TripAdvisor helped introduce the capability of DIY travel, his team has noticed over the last few years that people are really wanting to work with someone for specific vacations, like honeymoons or two-week explorations through Asia or Europe, which his team calls "highly considered trips."

"We really started to research the concierge travel space, and it made a lot of sense with many of the other consumer trends going on out there like personal trainers, subscription services, and home management concierge, like Hello Alfred."

From there, Ornitz's team spent countless hours curating a pool of 300 "trip designers" who they considered to be deep specialists in specific destinations. These advisors list their top three or four specialities on a Reco profile, particularly if they lived there at some point or have visited dozens of times. Travelers looking for a travel advisor through Reco, answer a few important questions about where they want to go, the type of traveler they are, among other things, and will then be paired with several options to select the perfect trip designer for a specific vacation.

"People highly value their vacations and travel in general—research shows that," says Orntiz. "Then you add a layer of willingness to venture further out, make the trip experiential, and that's when it gets exciting and really matters."

While spending hours researching various locations can help you make good decisions on where to go and what to do, working with a travel advisor, especially in the luxury space, is all about making the absolute best decision for a one-of-a-kind vacation you'll never forget. Flowers and Ornitz both say people are craving trips with their loved ones, who they may not have seen (or seen much of) in more than a year, and they want their family vacations to be extra-special.

"Folks are looking for ways to get the most from their vacations, and with so many options and information out there, it can be overwhelming to choose, especially for far-off destinations," says Ornitz. "Our trip designers offer their personal expertise of having actually been there and really knowing these different hotels to help you decide the best for you. There may be a dozen luxury resorts lined up on the same beach, but the right trip designer knows how much you love golf and that Rosewood's golf program is the best in the area, so that will be the best fit."

Flowers says another crucial benefit of working with a travel agent—especially for travel into 2022—is that through their own partners on the ground, they know which areas, hotels, and other offerings are and aren't performing well.

"What we initially saw from many partners around the world when Covid-19 hit was this emphasis on sanitation and cleanliness, but that's not why people were wanting to travel," she says. "The desire for travel was to be remote, to have privacy with loved ones, to escape into beauty and nature, and that is only going to be accomplished when you're in places that deliver all of those experiences to meet these desires." Flowers cites Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts , Oetker Collection , and Rosewood Hotels & Resorts as some of the major luxury resort chains that have gone above and beyond to deliver not only a safe experience while traveling, but are still focused on creating these ultra-high-end, luxurious stays for people seeking to unwind and rejuvenate. Flowers also says that places with excellent villa or residence properties as part of their repertoire have really thrived during this time, winning people back to travel again, be it domestic or international.

The Future of Travel Advisory is Bright

Flowers has full confidence that travel advisors will remain in high demand, as more people are desperate than ever to travel yet are fearful of the unknown in terms of the pandemic and Covid-19 restrictions. She's also betting on the power of word-of-mouth advertising to keep luxury travel firms as busy as ever into 2022 and beyond.

"When a person is at a cocktail party with friends and hears how someone had this fabulous experience with a vacation during Covid, that will be a real feather in people's caps," Flowers says. "There's such a pent-up demand for top-level properties, and it's important to have someone who understands which ones are truly the best and know the things that can't be Googled. The world is becoming more and more experiential, and people want to spend more time together with loved ones. The advisor community is just going to continue to grow. We actually need more of us!"

Lauren Wicks is a freelance writer and editor based in Birmingham, Alabama. Before going on her own, Lauren worked for brands such as VERANDA, EatingWell, and Cooking Light , and she covers all things lifestyle from interior design and luxury travel to wine and wellness.

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Our favourite luxury experiences in Europe

From the spectacular Norwegian fjords and the idyllic French Riviera , to the vibrant streets of Barcelona and the charming Swiss Alps , fewer continents are as varied as Europe. Using our extensive travel knowledge, our mission at Lightfoot Travel is to bring you the finest luxury holiday experiences from all corners of this age-old, culture-rich, and enchanting region.

Ideal for couples and honeymooners are romantic escapes to Paris , where you can stroll the charming city streets; or Venice , where gondoliers serenade you as they meander through the city’s canals.

Feast on the region’s delicious cuisine as you embark on a French vineyard tour that will take you into the cellars of acclaimed chateaux, or immerse yourself in the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle of Italy .

Go off-the-beaten-track and discover the hidden Adriatic gems of Croatia and Montenegro . Croatia’s historical treasures tell the story of Roman, medieval and Venetian eras; while its thousands of islands, mountains and national parks are perfect for intrepid explorations. Similarly, Montenegro combines stunning landscapes with history and a high-end Mediterranean yachting scene.

For something extraordinary, take an unforgettable voyage into the remote Arctic Circle . One of planet’s last great frontiers, this majestic icescape offers sublime wonders of nature from ice fjords and blue glaciers, to haunting ice fields and snow mountains.

Throughout your journeys across Europe, our handpicked luxury properties will make sure you stay in style. Take your pick from alpine chalets, boutique city hotels, a castle in the Scottish Highlands , or a Tuscan estate featuring a 300-year-old winery.

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2024 A-List Travel Advisors

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

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Want to tour the Louvre after hours? Tag rhinos in Rwanda? Get married on Mykonos? Throw a milestone birthday party on St. Barts? Or take a luxurious cruise to the Arctic? Our travel advisors have you covered. In our 22nd annual A-List, we present a directory of the most influential vacation specialists in the world, vetted by the editors at  Travel + Leisure .

Featured Advisor: Praveen Moman 

Courtesy of Praveen Moman

Operating primarily in Rwanda and Uganda, Moman focuses on trips to see mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and golden monkeys. Guests might trek through the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest with a primatologist, or look for rare Red colobus monkeys in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary.

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Russia - Private Travel

Packed with Imperial palaces, domed cathedrals and superb museum collections, the historic cities of Russia cast a seductive spell.

East Russia offers the perfect off-the-beaten-path escape, particularly for nature-lovers hoping to catch sight of the famous black bears.

The pull of its fascinating history is what draws visitors to Russia, lured by the grand architecture, modern cities, luxury hotels, bucolic countryside and the stoic pride of its people. Moscow is the economic, cultural and political powerhouse, and the capital city since the 15th century. Beginning with the famous Red Square, you run the gamut of incredible architecture masterpieces and iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Kremlin and its cathedrals have come to be the visual cue of the nation’s image, as has Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Private luxury tours will take you down pedestrianized Arbat Street with its shops, restaurants and street performers and along Tverskaya Street for some upmarket shopping. The Tretyakov Gallery – the most visited in Moscow – is the supreme spot for absorbing classical Russian art. Many visitors to Moscow also manage the Golden Ring, a route through nine ancient towns in the northeast that have managed to hold onto their 14th-century flavour. Sites here are mainly religious – UNESCO-listed cathedrals and monuments. The cities include Ivanovo, Kostroma, Pereslavl-Zalesskiy, Rostov, Sergiev Posad, Suzdal, Uglich, Yaroslavl and Vladimir. St. Petersburg – founded by Peter the Great and commemorated by countless artists and writers – is a seaside paradise. It was only founded in the early 1700s – fairly young compared to some of Eurasia’s other significant cities. Thrillingly, it is Russia’s cultural heart, filled with art museums, opera houses and ballet stages. The State Hermitage Museum is the largest in the world at more than 700,000 square feet, its 120 rooms visited by one million people every year. A visit to Russia isn’t complete without a taste of the fresh air. The Russian countryside is primarily made up of rolling, treeless plains called Steppes. Four climates zones make for an interesting melange of plant and animal species, not to mention the various sporting activities: skiing in Rosa Khutor, mountain climbing in Caucasus, white-water rafting Altai Republic and hiking around Lake Baikal.

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The coveted relationships we have with our Preferred Partners are second to none and allow us to offer you the extraordinary trips that you desire.

Meet our Russia Travel Designers

Gavin crawford.

Director of Bespoke Experiences

Saloua Rezgui

Senior Travel Designer

Colleen Shields

If you’re considering bespoke luxury private travel to Russia, let our expert Travel Designers make your vacation truly customized from start to finish. Having spent the last three decades travelling and experiencing the best luxury offerings first-hand, Tully Luxury Travel has an exceptional understanding of Russia. We have the contacts and the relationships in place to ensure your travel needs are met – milestone celebrations, romantic dinners, private tours, dietary requirements, special room-service requests – all the details curated in step with your every wish. In Russia, our Private Travel Designers have the insider information that will elevate your experience that much more. Skip-the-line tickets for fine-art museums and the Bolshoi Ballet are easy to procure, and the grand balconies of Russia’s finest hotels are your box seats to watching this fascinating world go by. The time to start planning your next luxury vacation is now. Our private luxury travel service also allows us to secure the best amenities and VIP extras at no additional cost. That’s the Tully Difference. Talk with a Private Travel Designer and start planning your bespoke luxury Russian vacation today.

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More Russia Inspiration

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Ritz Carlton’s newest luxury super yacht, Ilma, debuts in Rome

September 4, 2024

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection  proudly introduces  Ilma,  its second new-build luxury super yacht, to its distinguished fleet.

The yacht embarked on its maiden voyage, a seven-night journey from Monte Carlo  to  Rome , on  Sept. 2 .

As the first and only luxury hospitality company at sea, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection advances its position at the forefront of the industry with a second yacht now sailing, illustrating a future-focused vision that keeps pushing the boundaries of luxury travel at sea.

“The launch of  Ilma  exemplifies the unwavering dedication of The Ritz-Carlton to setting new benchmarks in luxury travel, with the company’s commitment to thoughtful and transformative travel experiences guiding its mission,” said  Jenni Benzaquen , senior vice-president of The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis , and Bvlgari Hotels and Resorts. “ Ilma  brings the exceptional luxury accommodations and personalized service for which The Ritz-Carlton brand is renowned to the sea, further redefining the standards in the luxury industry.”

Ilma  measures 790 feet, offering 224 airy and intuitive suites, all with private terraces providing direct access to the sea. Stopping at signature and intimate ports of call,  Ilma  takes guests on enchanting itineraries to coveted destinations.

Ilma’s  inaugural season in the Mediterranean includes ports of call visiting Santorini, Porto Cervo, and Valletta , before departing for the  Caribbean , with stops in Virgin Gorda, Gustavia, and St. John. I lma  will additionally sail the North and Baltic Seas of  Northern Europe —a first for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection—during the 2025 summer season offering immersive itineraries in dynamic and culturally rich destinations like  Amsterdam ,  Stockholm , and Reykjavík.

The purposefully designed yacht accommodates up to 448 guests and offers among the highest space-to-guest and guest-to-staff ratios at sea.

Five dining venues

Ilma  invites guests to discover five dining venues, a refreshed in-suite dining program, sevens bars, and a signature wine vault.

Highlights include two dining venues conceptualized by MICHELIN-starred restaurant chefs  Fabio Trabocchi  and  Michael Mina .

The Beach House, designed by the  Toronto -based luxury design firm Chapi Chapo Design, offers 180-degree views of the sea that seamlessly integrate with the coast, creating a daytime to nighttime experience where guests can relax and unwind.

The beach club-inspired venue draws from Peruvian and Pan-Latin cuisine, blending globally influenced flavors in a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere.

For more information, visit ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com .

About the Ritz-Carlton Yacht collection

Designed to combine the luxury lifestyle of The Ritz-Carlton with the casual freedom of a yachting vacation, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers bespoke voyages in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe ,  Caribbean , and  Central America .

Calling on unique and distinguished destinations, voyages typically span five to ten nights with an all-inclusive onboard journey and curated excursions ashore.

Its inaugural yacht,  Evrima , embarked on its maiden voyage in  October 2022 . Measuring 624 feet in length,  Evrima features 149 airy suites across various categories, each with a private terrace, creating a relaxed and intimate ambiance for up to 298 guests. Continuing the fleet’s expansion, two new superyachts boasting among the highest space ratios per guest at sea, Ilma and Luminara  are slated to set sail in 2024 and 2025, respectively.

Spanning 790 feet,  Ilma  will offer 224 spacious, light-filled suites of varying categories, accommodating up to 448 guests. Slated to make its 2025 debut,  Luminara  will join  Ilma  and  Evrima  on voyages to secluded harbors and iconic cities.

Reflective of The Ritz-Carlton on land, each yacht offers personalized service, elevated dining experiences, and exclusive amenities.

Private charter options are also available, allowing guests to craft a truly tailored journey. For more information, visit  ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com .

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