Once you’ve ticked off the sights in Rome and Milan, where to jet off to next? To make easy work of planning your ultimate Italian summer getaway, we’re rounding up the country’s “bests”—from show-stopping pools and breezy beach clubs to scenic train rides and cruises. Read on for our top picks…
Best Pool: In a country known for its dramatic pools, it’s hard to crown one winner — which is why our vote goes to not one but two legendary Italian piscinas. On the Amalfi Coast, the heated infinity pool at Caruso, A Belmond Hotel is situated at an astonishing 1,000 feet above sea level, appearing to drop off the cliffs and into the Tyrrhenian Sea below. You won’t find a more scenic spot for taking in Amalfi’s soaring coastline. Meanwhile, in Umbria, the family-owned Tenuta di Murlo estate encompasses 18,000 acres of countryside and a collection of historic villas, cottages, hotel suites; one of its most lavish pools is the private L-shaped piscina at Villa Penna, which blends so seamlessly with the surrounding landscapes that you might think it was a natural swimming hole (which coincidentally, the estate also has).
Best Beach Club: Set on a private beach on Sicily’s Bay of Mazarrò, Villa Sant’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel occupies the island’s most covetable coastal perches. Now that the resort has launched Lido Villeggiatura, A Villa Sant’Andrea Beach Club, guests have yet another vantage point for appreciating the hotel’s seaside scenery. Inspired by the hotel’s midcentury Mediterranean glamour (the property was famously a private villa until the 1950s), the new beach club offers white-and-blue stripes sun loungers, six tented cabanas with plush sofas, dedicated butler service, and plenty of locally-inspired design details — from colorful cushions with lace-inspired “merletto” detailing, lava stone tiles from Mount Etna, Sicilian terracotta vases, and sun sails swaying in the sea breeze. Daily programming ranges from sunrise yoga by the water’s edge to open-air cinema nights in partnership with the Taormina Film Festival, DJ sets and seafood barbecues, wellness treatments in private cabanas, and excursions in the beach club’s new private speed boat Apreamare Gozzo 35, constructed by master boat builders from Sorrento.
Best for Artisans: International art gallery Galleria Continua and Belmond are teaming up for the third year on their MITICO art series. While this year’s art initiative will pop up in six Belmond properties around the world (including Rio de Janeiro and Cape Town), art lovers won’t want to miss a site-specific work by French conceptual artist Daniel Buren at Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, near Florence, where the artist has used the glass roof at Bar San Michele as his canvas. Consisting of panels of vividly colored glass in shades of red, green, blue and yellow, the retractable art piece transforms the bar into a kaleidoscopic installation of primary hues.
Best for Foodies: Umbria is ranking high on gourmands’ wish lists now that Tenuta di Murlo has launched a cooking school where guests can learn to make traditional Umbrian pizza and pasta and enroll in interactive group cooking classes. Also new for this year is a farm area that will function as a meeting place for culinary experiences like truffle hunting and apiary workshops. The hotel can organize picnics amid the property’s rolling hillsides, with estate-grown wine, olive oil, honey, biodynamic fruits and vegetables as gourmet picnic provisions. For guests wanting to get a broader taste of the region, culinary towns like Norcia (famous for its cured meats) and Castelluccio (Umbria’s lentil capital!) are just a drive away.
Best Train: What’s better than a road trip? A luxury train journey across Italy’s most breathtaking coastal landscapes. In June, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train will travel to the Ligurian Coast for the very first time in its four-decade history, connecting Paris and the breezy seaside town of Portofino, Italy. The overnight journey will wind through the French countryside and along the Riviera, ending with a two-night stay at Splendido, A Belmond Hotel. As part of their stay, guests will enjoy a night of cinema under the stars at the town’s iconic Piazzetta; they’ll also be among the first to check out the hotel’s newly launched Splendido Grill, where classic Italian dishes are enjoyed on a breezy terrace overlooking the Ligurian Bay.
Best Cruise: Sicily isn’t a destination you can discover in one go — or is it? Next summer, PONANT, in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys, will circumnavigate the Italian island, bringing the destination’s ancient civilizations, cultural riches, and awe-inspiring landscapes into deep focus. Setting sail from Valletta, Malta on June 2-10, 2025, Le Bougainville will head towards the southwestern coast of Sicily, home to the seaside commune of Porto Empedocles and the UNESCO-recognized Temple Valley archaeological site. Next, the ship will journey to Tunisia’s alluring capital to visit the ruins of Ancient Carthage and the Bardo National Museum before arriving in Trapani to visit the San Lorenzo Cathedral and the medieval hilltop commune of Erice. From there, it’s on to Palermo, the capital of Sicily, where Byzantine mosaics and Baroque churches exist alongside chic artisan studios and trendy restaurants. After a loop around Lipari, the largest of the Aeolian islands, travelers will sail north to Stromboli, taking in panoramic vistas of the active volcano, before crossing through the Strait of Messina to arrive at Taormina. The final port of call is Syracuse, which Cicero called “the greatest and most beautiful of all Grecian cities,” where you’ll find the island’s greatest archaeological sites, Parco Archeologico della Neapoli.
Gift Guide: Mother’s Day
Whether she enjoys hosting a dinner party, dressing up for every occasion (including bedtime!), or is embracing her role as dog mom, there’s a gift for every mother figure this May:
For the Hostess:
UXUA Utopia: A Very Gifted Guest House
The boutique property on the Bahian coast of Brazil tends to attract a cool crowd (Anderson Cooper loved it so much that he built a house; its where Solange Knowles spent her honeymoon; models like Candice Swanepoel have been spotted there…), so it’s no surprise that leading trend forecaster Li Edelkoort joined forces to release this coffee table book. The 288 pages combine elements of design, art, and travel, exploring owner Wilbert Das’ achievements in establishing values for a new world through a local project meant to set a global example. Past guests can reminisce about their holidays while flipping through the beautiful pages, and those yet to visit can daydream and imagine themselves in the tropical paradise of Trancoso, Brazil. The book retails for $150.
Artisan Olive Oil from Tenuta di Murlo in Umbria
Tenuta di Murlo’s exclusive olive oil, harvested at the 18,000-acre estate from a blend of Dolce Agogia, Frantoio, Leccino, and Moraiolo olives holds the DOP label (Protected Designation of Origin) that is awarded to products that are produced, processed and prepared with ingredients from the specific region. For subtle amaro and spicy flavors, while also enjoying a fruity aroma with herbaceous notes, gift a bundle of three bottles for $83 on shop.murlo.com.
Charlotte & Co at Dromoland Castle
Instead of the requisite trinkets that often fill hotel gift shops, Dromoland Castle’s Charlotte & Co, a boutique celebrating Irish artisans and giving visitors a one-stop shop to pick up an authentic, Irish-made item to remember their trip. The boutique features a collection of Irish contemporary design comprising homewares by KOPPER KREATION made with reclaimed copper, steel, and brass; handmade perfumes made in and inspired by The Burren national park from Burren Perfumery; super chic freeform architectural modeling kits from ARCKIT (think Lego goes high design); and several other proudly Irish makers.
Elegant Teatime with The Westbury’s Finest Set
Relax with your valentine using The Westbury’s quintessential set of afternoon teacups and saucers. Available in a set of two, are crafted from the finest bone china and with a hand-painted gold rim. It elevates a DIY afternoon tea experience from the cozy confines of home. This set is available on shop.doylecollection.com, with a retail price of $88.
For the Fashionista:
Scottish Fashion from The Fife Arms
Renowned British couture designer Giles Deacon has collaborated with The Fife Arms in Braemar, Scotland to create an exclusive capsule collection in celebration of the inaugural Festival of Fashion. A frequent visitor to the hotel, Deacon merged the bespoke house tweed and tartan with his high-fashion expertise. The collection is comprised of the Munro Victoria Cape ($2,775) and three versions of the Munro Bag (from $678), including one that features an archival print of the legendary Braemar Gathering, an annual event regularly attended by the reigning Monarch and members of the British Royal Family. His pieces are worn and collected the world over by private clients, red carpet celebrities and royalty (he designed Pippa Middleton’s wedding dress). The Munro Capsule collection can be found on The Fife Arms’ online shop.
Centenary Collection from COPA X FARM Rio
Two of Rio’s most iconic brands, Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Rio de Janeiro and FARM Rio, the city’s most renowned fashion brand, have collaborated on a centenary collection inspired by Rio’s vibrant Carioca spirit and Copacabana Palace’s 100 years of timeless elegance. The collection is the first time FARM Rio has teamed up with a luxury hospitality brand, connecting contemporary fashion with time-old glamour. Within the collection, the black Copacabana Chemise ($260) brings a tone of sophistication embellished with the classic tropical bananas print for a quick transition from walks on the beach to dinner by the pool.
The Parker X Sant & Abel Women’s Parker Boxer Set
Sleep in style in a new pajama set this Mother’s Day. Sant & Abel created an exclusive Parker Palm Springs print with colorful sketches of the iconic cheeky and whimsical elements that lie within the hotel’s estate – from the Jonathan Adler-designed bronzed banana statue and the poolside, Lemonade Stand to the pink lip artwork by Jessica Rowe and the room service cyclists. The word “DRUGS” in the print is a nod to the 1930s vintage sign sourced from a pharmacy in Idaho that now hangs in the lobby. The shirt & boxer set can be purchased online here for $170.
For Dog Moms:
Pet Pampering Accessories from Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel X Chommies
To celebrate its 125th anniversary, the iconic Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel has expanded its circle of love to guests’ furry companions with a Mount Nelson x Chommies collaboration. The range of luxury pet accessories is modeled by the hotel’s very own beloved cat, Nellie, who has captured the hearts of staff and guests for 15 years and can be found roaming the Lounge and Verandah on property. The collaboration includes tennis-inspired rope collars and leashes as well as a luxury knitted picnic blanket and a handcrafted food & water bowl set. Shop the entire collection online here; 10% of the proceeds go to the Underdog Project, a local program that provides therapeutic workshops to youths through shelter dog training.
Coastal Charm Pet Collection with White Elephant X Pawsitivity
White Elephant Nantucket teamed up with Pawsitivity to create a custom pet collection of collars and leashes, featuring signature Nantucket icons and the iconic White Elephant logo. The collection is 100% handcrafted in Massachusetts, made using durable metal hardware coated for saltwater usage and wear tested in Nantucket Sound. The collection can be found both online and at the hotel’s newly redesigned retail space starting at $45. For the ultimate pet-friendly stay on Nantucket, check out the newly renovated Cottages at the Boat Basin including 12 “Woof Cottages” for those traveling with furry friends (personal pet tags are included with each stay!)
Nantucket’s Cottages at the Boat Basin, overlooking the famous harbor, unveiled a six-month multi-million-dollar renovation today. Drawing on Nantucket’s rich seafaring past and Quaker influence, Nantucket-based designer Audrey Sterk infused new life into the 29 Cottages, which occupy an enviable perch along the slips of the award-winning Nantucket Boat Basin.
Located 30 miles off the coast of Massachusetts, the island of Nantucket continues to retain the historic charm lingering from its days as the world’s whaling capital in the 19th century. The Boat Basin’s storied history spans over 300 years beginning in the late-1720s when the island was the busiest whaling port in the world and its wharves were flourishing with boat-building ships, sail lofts and candle factories. During that time, 15-20 whale ships would be anchored in the harbor and stacks of oil casks lined each wharf. In 1830, the California Gold Rush played a role in the whaling industry’s collapse on the East Coast, but by 1920, Nantucket entered a new era of tourism with travelers arriving by steamboat from posts across the Northeast. By the mid 1960s, the waterfront, which became known as the Nantucket Boat Basin, developed into a fisherman’s community and artist enclave with more than a dozen galleries lining the wharves. The Cottages, as we know it today, officially arrived on the scene in 2002 when the accommodations became part of White Elephant Resorts.
Checking into The Cottages is the closest thing to staying on the water, without being on a boat, nautical soundtrack included. The setting is reminiscent of a seaside village. The individually styled accommodations with names like Sea Syren, Essex and Orion, are inspired by the names of the great whaling ships of the 1700s. A collection of 12 accommodations, dubbed ‘Woof Cottages’ continue to be available for those traveling with pets. Ranging from studio cottages to split-level three-bedroom lofts, every inch of the historic accommodations, particularly the bedrooms, living spaces and bathrooms, have been revamped without altering their original architecture. Original details including vaulted ceiling beams and individual floor plans have remained. All cottages offer full kitchens and most feature private outdoor decks. The accommodations feature a color palette of inviting tones of deep ocean blue, misty gray and stark white. Caged lighting, nautical charts of Nantucket, brass barometer instruments, rope and jute detailing in the furnishings and carpet, and woven fixtures inject a dose of contemporary maritime charm while the humble, functional materials hark back to the island’s whaling roots.
An extensive collection of artwork, including 3-D pieces of framed mariners knots, along with other works hand-selected by the hotel’s owners are displayed throughout the accommodations. A focal point of the cottages is a mural that’s handpainted by Sterk and digitally modified to fit in each space. The floor-to-ceiling seascape—which took nearly eight months to create—stretches across an entire wall and depicts a “First Nantucket Settlers” scene, with large-masted sailboats, lighthouses, a distant hamlet, and coastal vegetation brimming with native plants and animals. The mural tradition is deeply woven into the fabric of the island: in the 1800s, owners of whaling ships commissioned murals for their homes.
Amenities include complimentary access to Priority Bicycles and kids’ fishing rods, reels and nets. Guests are also steps from town and can take advantage of complimentary shuttles to the beach. Pets receive the VIP treatment with beds, a welcome basket of treats and toys, and personalized pet tags. For recommendations on the island’s most pet-friendly activities—including the best places to run free and play fetch, guests can email local insider Bailey, a black lab/Brittany Spaniel mix at petconcierge@thecottagesnantucket.com
To celebrate the renovation, The Cottages is offering a special opening rate starting from $310 per night. High season rates start at $1,250 per night. Starting rates are for one-bedroom Cottages. For more information, visit: https://www.thecottagesnantucket.com/
About White Elephant Resorts
White Elephant Resorts is a collection of premier hotels and resorts on Nantucket, MA and in Palm Beach, FL that specialize in bringing their award-winning combination of service, design, and amenities to today’s discerning traveler. Properties include The Wauwinet, with access to both bay and ocean beaches and home to award-winning TOPPER’S restaurant; White Elephant, the iconic hotel located right on Nantucket Harbor with the Brant Point Grill; Jared Coffin House, a historic hotel in Nantucket Town and its restaurant, Tap Room; The Cottages at Nantucket Boat Basin, private waterfront cottages; and Nantucket Boat Basin, a 240-slip full-service award-winning marina. White Elephant Palm Beach debuted in November 2020 in Palm Beach, FL with Nantucket-favorite LoLa 41 restaurant. In 2023, The Wauwinet, White Elephant Nantucket, and White Elephant Palm Beach were ranked in Travel + Leisure’s T+L 500 awards, and both White Elephant Nantucket and The Wauwinet were recipients of Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. TOPPER’s is AAA’s only “Five Diamond” restaurant on Nantucket and has been a recipient of Wine Spectator’s “Grand Award” for 27 consecutive years.
Spring is officially here! We don’t know about you, but it’s one of our favorite times of year to travel. Beat April showers with a sunny getaway to Palm Springs, take advantage of shoulder-season pricing in Nantucket, and plan a trip around seasonal happenings like D.C.’s Cherry Blossom Festival. And if you still haven’t found the perfect gift for Mother’s Day, we’ve compiled a list of travel-themed gifts that are sure to stoke her wanderlust. Read on!
Almanac | Aqua Expeditions | andBeyond | Beaumont | Belmond | Cap d’Antibes Beach Hotel | Doyle Collection | Dromoland Castle Hotel | Euphoria Retreat | Fife Arms | Gili Lankanfushi Maldives | Hotel Hana | Hôtel La Ponche | Island Outpost | Kalesma Mykonos | Michel Reybier Hospitality | Monsieur George Hôtel & Spa| Nayara Resorts | New Hotel Athens | Nous Santorini | Park Hyatt Japan | The Parker | Ponant | Potlatch Club | The Roundtree | Royal Mansour Collection | Shou Sugi Ban House | Tenuta di Murlo | UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa | Virtuoso | Visit Napa Valley | White Elephant Resorts
Destination of the Month: U.S.
Here are this month’s getaways worthy of your holiday plans — whether you’re dreaming of an easy family trip or a stress-busting wellness vacation.
Family
Looking for an easy Memorial Day getaway for the whole family? We’ve got you covered. Take advantage of shoulder season rates in Nantucket, where the iconic Cottages at the Boat Basin will unveil a six-month, multi-million-dollar renovation on April 11. The new look will draw on Nantucket’s seafaring past, Quaker influence, and the property’s covetable location on the famed Nantucket Boat Basin. Of the 29 made-over Cottages, 12 (dubbed “Woof Cottages”) are available for families traveling with pets; all accommodations include complimentary access to bicycles, kids’ fishing rods, and free shuttles to the beach.
Planning a visit to D.C. in time for the National Cherry Blossom Festival? Make Dupont Circle your base. Located a short walk from the White House, overlooking the leafy Dupont Circle, the 1950s-era landmark is known for its can-do service (ask the concierge to hook you up with passes to the city’s best museums) and spacious, family-friendly rooms including the 3,000-square-foot Grand Penthouse Suite.
Did You Know: the hotel’s Pembroke restaurant is known to roll out specialty menus around cherry blossom season!
For an easy getaway, a two-hour drive from New York City, head to The Roundtree in Amagansett. Set on two acres of manicured farmlands, the family-friendly property is a collection of renovated cottages and houses, some of which are located inside 250-year-old barns. Big groups should opt for the four-bedroom Beach House, which has a full kitchen, a gas fireplace, a dining area and a living room, as well as a sizable backyard. The hotel has something for all members of the family—historical tours of the Hamptons, boat trips, lawn games like cornhole, and stargazing with S’mores.
Wellness
Napa Valley isn’t just for wine lovers and gourmands—it’s also for active travelers, health-seekers, and those wanting to commune with nature amid rolling hills, rugged mountain ranges, and glistening lakes. If you’re looking to do a spa weekend, there’s no dreamier place to unwind—there are more than 10 spas that offer healing, detoxifying mud bath treatments. For the ultimate in pampering, consider the three-part Mudslide treatment at Solage Calistoga, which involves being slathered in mineral-enriched mud enhanced with essential oils, relaxing in a private soaking tub filled with geothermal mineral waters, and kicking back in a state-of-the-art “sound” chair.
On the other coast, meanwhile, Shou Sugi Ban House is the Hamptons’ first destination spa and wellness retreat. Last year, the pioneering property launched the cutting-edge Shou Sugi Ban Lab with biohacking technologies like pulsed electro-magnetic field therapy, neuro-acoustic therapy, and biometric testing. The property’s half- and full-day circuits are perfect for travelers wanting a quick mind-body tune-up.
Design
Palm Springs is a year-round haven for art and design, but there’s special buzz around the city this spring. Last month, the Palm Springs Art Museum unveiled the reconstructed Aluminaire House, the 1931 modernist icon designed by pioneering architect Albert Frey, which Architectural Record dubbed one of the most important buildings of the 20th century. If you plan on making the pilgrimage, hang your hat at The Parker Palm Springs, designed by Jonathan Adler and filled with 120 pieces of original art, including an Op-Art work by Hungarian-French artist Victor Vasarely (who also has works at the Palm Springs Art Museum.)
For another design-centric spring getaway, stay at the White Elephant Palm Beach, a 1920s-era landmark mansion reborn as one of Palm Beach’s artsiest stays. The 32-room boutique hotel boasts an ambitious 120-piece art collection with original works by Orit Fuchs and Fredrick Prescott. Design lovers will want to book the hotel’s Architecture & Preservation Package, which offers two nights in a one-bedroom suite and a 1.5-hour architecture tour of the island led by a representative from the Palm Beach Preservation Foundation.
Mother’s Day Gift Guide
The next best thing to an actual getaway with mom? A thoughtful gift that evokes far-away places and once-in-a-lifetime adventures. If mom has a penchant for more practical gifts, surprise her with a pair of engraved steel and gold-plated egg scissors from Scotland’s Fife Arms. The elevated kitchen essential pairs perfectly with a set of fine bone china teacups and saucers (complete with a hand-painted gold rim!) from Dublin’s Westbury hotel. Or give mom a taste of Italy by gifting her a bottle of artisanal olive oil from Umbria’s Tenuta di Murlo estate. Each bottle is crafted on site: the property has its own D.O. and blends a variety of Dolce Agogia, Frantoio, Leccino, and Moraiolo olives.
Swaddle mom in warm fuzzies by gifting her a limited-edition cashmere throw created by Nantucket’s White Elephant Resorts and Arhaus. The embroidered throw is supremely soft and is available exclusively in honor of the property’s 100th-anniversary renovation — making it a unique gift she’ll treasure for years to come! And while we all wish we could treat mom to a spa weekend at the newly opened spa at Ireland’s Dromoland Castle, the second-best option is a beautifying product from plant-based Irish brand SEABODY (one of the three award-winning, female-owned brands stocked at the new wellness sanctuary). We recommend the Sea to Self Gift Set, complete with a serum, moisturizer, overnight elixir, and a bioactive beauty food supplement.
If your mom is the type to always have her nose in a book, we have two travel-themed additions for her library. “UXUA Utopia: A Very Gifted Guest House” is a 288-page love letter to Brazil’s iconic UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa. Filled with stunning imagery of the Bahian eco-haven — pristine beaches, jungle foliage, fisherman homes reborn as high-design casas — it’s sure to transport her to the celeb-favorite hideaway. Or, for dreams of an Italian getaway, opt for “Villeggiatura: Italian Summer Vacation” from Assouline and Belmond. With vivid imagery and evocative descriptions by former Vogue Italia editor Cesare Cunaccia, the book is a journey to Belmond’s collection of legendary hotels across Italy: from Venice and Portofino to Tuscany and Taormina. Happy Mother’s Day!
The Galapagos, Peruvian Amazon, Indonesia’s Spice Islands, as well as Vietnam, and Cambodia … Aqua Expeditions is a leader in luxury small-ship expeditions taking travelers to the world’s most diverse and culturally significant destinations aboard deeply stylish yacht-like vessels. And while offboard excursions promise next-level thrills, the onboard delights offer further immersion through chef-led cooking masterclasses, cocktail demonstrations, and artwork sourced from female artisans in local villages. Here’s a preview of what’s to come for this season:
Where to Sail Next: Spice Islands
Aqua Blu is the first ever long-range ocean explorer yacht permanently based in East Indonesia, making it easy to explore the country’s wildest, most remote corners, including the mythical and relatively undiscovered Spice Islands (which can only be reached by boat). Still to this day the archipelago carries vestiges of its past, from its extensive fortifications and Dutch architecture to its well-preserved nutmeg plantations (the Spice Islands are the origin of the fragrant seed). Interestingly, The Spice Islands were once so valuable that the Dutch traded the British the island of Manhattan to secure tiny Banda Run, which is included on the itinerary. Other stops include Molana and Palau Run for picture-perfect sandy beaches and Banda Neira for twice-daily underwater dives or snorkeling excursions: the island’s historic ‘Fire Mountain’ volcanic eruption of 1988 led to the rebirth of coral and marina life, giving rise to spectacular underwater gardens. Rates start at $9,415 per person.
Savor at Sea: Chef Hosted Departures Return in 2024
Aqua Expeditions will offer three exclusive chef-hosted departures in 2024. In the Peruvian Amazon, renowned chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino—one of Peru’s most celebrated toques and a pioneer of the rainforest-to-table movement—will host two four-night sailings on Aqua Nera from May 14-18 and September 17-21. Guests will enjoy an intimate dinner, ceviche-making masterclass, and a cocktail demonstration—all led by Schiaffino. Meanwhile, over in East Indonesia, Australian chef Benjamin Cross will host a seven-night sailing on Aqua Blu from August 10-17. Chef Cross began his career over 20 years ago at the award-winning Byron Bay boutique hotel and trained with some of Australia’s top chefs, including Neil Perry and Janni Kyritsis, before opening a string of restaurants in Bali, all of which rank among the island’s top dining destinations. On the weeklong sailing, he’ll host a cooking masterclass and kitchen tour to show guests how he crafts some of his signature recipes, which are inspired by East Indonesia’s spice routes and created specifically for Aqua Expeditions. The experience will culminate with an exclusive chef-hosted dinner spotlighting his creations. Rates start at $6,300 per person for the Amazon departures and $9,415 per person for the Indonesia departure.
An Emphasis on Artful Design
In recent years, expedition lines have been investing in onboard art collections, surrounding passengers with original pieces, sculptures, and ceramics to enrich the experience along the way. Aqua Expeditions’ CEO and Founder Francesco Galli Zugaro and his wife, Birgit, are passionate art-collectors. For as long as they’ve been traveling, they’ve been collecting one-of-a-kind artworks and rare objects, many of which, like a glass foosball table on Aqua Mekong, have found a new home on the brand’s luxurious vessels. Each of the ships has a distinctive design inspired by its destination. For example, Aqua Nera features works inspired by the black-water lagoons of the Peruvian Amazon, with dark-hued wooden décor and beautiful, rare pottery (originally used for formal ceremonies such as marriages) made by Amazonian communities. Aqua Mare takes its inspiration from the Galapagos Islands’ volcanic activity, with brilliant gold accents, ashy grays, coarse textures, and custom-made Panama hats for sale at the ship’s on-board boutique. Aqua Blu nods to its rich naval heritage (it was originally the HMS Beagle, a royal navy vessel that was used for cartography-related missions) with maritime-inspired pieces, including old maps from the 1800s that were made by Dutch cartographers. Rooms feature antique nut crackers sourced in Bali via an antiques dealer and friend of Birgit’s, and the on-site boutique is stocked with treasures like bespoke lacquer trays and scarves from a remote Indonesian island. Finally, Aqua Mekong borrows inspiration from the natural scenery of the Mekong Delta, with its lush greenery like lotus roots and lilies. The ship’s silk scarfs, silver bags and jewelry, and hand-woven and dyed kaftans—all available for sale at the boutique—are made exclusively for Aqua.
This emphasis on artful design trickles down to the onboard dining, too. All crockery has been commissioned exclusively for Aqua by the Bali-based Gaya Ceramics. Birgit first met the brand’s Italian owner at a French art exhibit, and after bonding over their love for ceramics, they decided to collaborate on a collection for Aqua Mekong. Now, there are Gaya ceramics on every Aqua ship—but with a local twist. For example, Aqua Blu has ceramics etched with drawings of English naturalist Alfred Wallace Russel and the wildlife he surveyed; Aqua Mare’s pieces are embellished with gold in a reference to the lava flows of the Galapagos and sketchings by Charles Darwin; and Aqua Mekong features designs of lotus roots and other native flora that were originally sketched by Birgit. Other dining wares come from local communities, like the napkin rings on Aqua Nera and Aria Amazon made by female artisans out of natural fibers.
Rolling Down the (Mekong) River
Charting a luxurious passage on Southeast Asia’s longest river, the 20-stateroom Aqua Mekong travels at a speed of 6-7 knots, allowing for a beautifully slow-paced way of experiencing the waterway that spans Cambodia and Vietnam. One of the best times of year to make the journey is November through April— dry season—when blue skies and balmy temperatures guarantee smooth sailing. A three-night Mekong Discovery voyage will either head upriver in Cambodia by exploring the Tonle Sap River, or downriver between Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh, while a four-night experience will sail upriver from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh, past floating villages and gilded pagodas, with twice-daily excursions on bike, kayak, and guided visits to riverside markets. For a deeper dive into the destination, the seven-night Mekong Expedition Cruise includes more time on the Cambodia stretch of the Mekong and along the Tonle Sap River—the only river in the world whose tide changes annually—which is untouched by tourists. Full charter rates start at $136,000 for 3 nights.
Special Opening Offer up to $585 Per Night in Savings
Nantucket’s Cottages at the Boat Basin will unveil a six-month multi-million-dollar renovation on April 11, 2024. Drawing on the island’s rich seafaring past and Quaker influence, Nantucket-based designer Audrey Sterk will infuse new life into the 29 Cottages, which occupy an enviable harborside perch along the slips of the award-winning Nantucket Boat Basin. To celebrate the rebirth of an icon, the property is offering an opening promotion: two-bedroom cottages for the price of a one-bedroom cottage. Two-bedroom cottage rates start at $310 per night. (A savings up to $585 per night.) Valid for stays between April 11th and June 11th and based on availability.
Located 30 miles off the coast of Massachusetts, the island of Nantucket continues to retain the historic charm lingering from its days as the world’s whaling capital in the 19th century. The Boat Basin’s storied history spans over 300 years beginning in the late-1720s when the island was the busiest whaling port in the world and its wharves were flourishing with boat-building ships, sail lofts and candle factories. During that time, 15-20 whale ships would be anchored in the harbor and stacks of oil casks lined each wharf. In 1830, the California Gold Rush played a role in the whaling industry’s collapse on the East Coast, but by 1920, Nantucket entered a new era of tourism with travelers arriving by steamboat from posts across the Northeast. By the mid 1960s, the waterfront, which became known as the Nantucket Boat Basin, developed into a fisherman’s community and artist enclave with more than a dozen galleries lining the wharves. The Cottages, as we know it today, officially arrived on the scene in 2002 when the accommodations became part of White Elephant Resorts.
Checking into The Cottages is the closest thing to staying on the water, without being on a boat, nautical soundtrack included. The setting is reminiscent of a seaside village. The individually styled accommodations with names like Sea Syren, Essex and Orion, are inspired by the names of the great whaling ships of the 1700s. A collection of 12 accommodations, dubbed ‘Woof Cottages’ will continue to be available for those traveling with pets. Ranging from studio cottages to split-level three-bedroom lofts, every inch of the historic accommodations, particularly the bedrooms, living spaces and bathrooms, will be revamped without altering their original architecture. Original details including vaulted ceiling beams and individual floor plans will remain. All cottages offer full kitchens and most feature private outdoor decks. The accommodations will feature a color palette of inviting tones of deep ocean blue, misty gray and stark white. Caged lighting, nautical charts of Nantucket, brass barometer instruments, rope and jute detailing in the furnishings and carpet, and woven fixtures will inject a dose of contemporary maritime charm while the humble, functional materials hark back to the island’s whaling roots.
An extensive collection of artwork, including 3-D pieces of framed mariners knots, along with other works hand-selected by the hotel’s owners will also be displayed throughout the accommodations. A focal point of the cottages will be a mural that’s hand painted by Sterk and digitally modified to fit in each space. The floor-to-ceiling seascape—which took nearly eight months to create—will stretch across an entire wall and depict a “First Nantucket Settlers” scene, with large-masted sailboats, lighthouses, a distant hamlet, and coastal vegetation brimming with native plants and animals. The mural tradition is deeply woven into the fabric of the island: in the 1800s, owners of whaling ships commissioned murals for their homes.
Amenities will include complimentary access to Priority Bicycles and kids’ fishing rods, reels and nets. Guests are also steps from town and can take advantage of complimentary shuttles to the beach. Pets receive the VIP treatment with beds, a welcome basket of treats and toys, and personalized pet tags. For recommendations on the island’s most pet-friendly activities—including the best places to run free and play fetch, guests can email local insider Bailey, a black lab/Brittany Spaniel mix at petconcierge@thecottagesnantucket.com
For more information, visit: https://www.thecottagesnantucket.com/
About White Elephant Resorts
White Elephant Resorts is a collection of premier hotels and resorts on Nantucket, MA and in Palm Beach, FL that specialize in bringing their award-winning combination of service, design, and amenities to today’s discerning traveler. Properties include The Wauwinet, with access to both bay and ocean beaches and home to award-winning TOPPER’S restaurant; White Elephant, the iconic hotel located right on Nantucket Harbor with the Brant Point Grill; Jared Coffin House, a historic hotel in Nantucket Town and its restaurant, Tap Room; The Cottages at Nantucket Boat Basin, private waterfront cottages; and Nantucket Boat Basin, a 240-slip full-service award-winning marina. White Elephant Palm Beach debuted in November 2020 in Palm Beach, FL with Nantucket-favorite LoLa 41 restaurant. In 2023, The Wauwinet, White Elephant Nantucket, and White Elephant Palm Beach were ranked in Travel + Leisure’s T+L 500 awards, and both White Elephant Nantucket and The Wauwinet were recipients of Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. TOPPER’s is AAA’s only “Five Diamond” restaurant on Nantucket and has been a recipient of Wine Spectator’s “Grand Award” for 27 consecutive years.
Gone are the days when family travel was synonymous with piling into the back of an RV for a cross-country adventure. Now, families have their pick of creative vacations that are guaranteed to get everyone engaged, inspired, and (most importantly) off their phones. Tap into the year’s biggest travel trends, like set-jetting, “coolcations” and home-swapping, with these 11 family-vacation ideas designed to get you dreaming — and planning.
Almanac | Aqua Expeditions | andBeyond | Beaumont | Belmond | Cap d’Antibes Beach Hotel | Doyle Collection | Dromoland Castle Hotel | Euphoria Retreat | Fife Arms | Gili Lankanfushi Maldives | Hotel Hana | Hôtel La Ponche | Island Outpost | Kalesma Mykonos | Michel Reybier Hospitality | Monsieur George Hôtel & Spa| Nayara Resorts | New Hotel Athens | Nous Santorini | Park Hyatt Japan | The Parker Palm Springs | Ponant | Potlatch | The Roundtree | Royal Mansour Collection | Shou Sugi Ban House | Tenuta di Murlo | UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa | Virtuoso | Visit Napa Valley | White Elephant Resorts
Trend: Coolcation
As travelers look to escape scorching summer heat in search of cooler temperatures, Scotland will only grow in appeal, particularly among comfort-minded families and multi-generational travelers. This year, follow the lead of one of Europe’s most famous families—the British Royal Family—and plan a holiday to the Scottish Highlands, where the Fife Arms serves as the ultimate base for family adventures like foraging, stargazing, creative writing classes, golf tournaments, and more.
Trend: Farm-to-Table Cooking Classes
At the Royal Mansour Marrakech’s just-launched cooking school, guests cook shoulder-to-shoulder with Michelin-star chefs during two-hour classes dedicated to three culinary themes—Moroccan, Italian and pastry—each concluding with an alfresco feast of the final creations. It’s the perfect way to get the whole family involved — and, who knows, it might inspire the kids to play sous-chef back at home.
Trend: Giving Back
Travel really is the best education. At The Roundtree in Amagansett—which was founded by activist lawyer turned hotelier Sylvia Wong—kids learn about the importance of giving back by manning the on-property lemonade stand, on Main Street, where proceeds go toward charitable organizations.
Trend: Wild Feasting
We see your humble family picnic and raise you an outdoor feast surrounded by the rolling hills of Umbria. At Tenuta di Murlo, a family-owned medieval estate, multi-generational groups can enjoy alfresco meals amid 18,000 acres of Umbrian countryside (for scale, Manhattan is around 14,000). The property’s olive groves, grape vines, and biodynamic vegetable gardens will supply the ingredients; all you have to do is bring the whole gang—and your appetite.
Trend: Home Swapping
Guests of Kalesma Mykonos can try out the home-swapping trend without a key exchange necessary by opting for a new summer travel experience that involves visiting a local family homestead and learning about traditional island life. You’ll learn how to knead and bake bread in a stone oven, then enjoy the fruits of your labor with a traditional Mykonian feast.
Trend: Specialty Concierges
Forget setting up dinner reservations. The concierges of the future will provide specialty assistance in ways you didn’t know you needed, making your family getaway smoother and more fun. At the family-friendly Nayara Gardens in Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano National Park, a sloth concierge is on hand to teach kids all about the lives of slow-moving mammals—what they eat, how they sleep for 15-20 hours a day, and most importantly, how to spot one of these fuzzy creatures in the wild—and the resort’s conservation efforts at the on-site sloth sanctuary.
Trend: Set-Jetting
The ultimate screen-inspired getaway? A cinematic escape to the birthplace of James Bond, obviously! At Jamaica’s GoldenEye, families can stay in the actual two-bedroom villa where Ian Fleming penned the best-selling spy series and where his writing desk still stands. When you’re not diving into the world of 007, families can go SUP boarding in the property’s protected lagoon or kick back with Jamaican Jerk BBQ at the Bamboo Bar on Button Beach.
Trend: Sports Tourism
Travel centered on sports events and culture is one of the fastest growing sectors in tourism. We can’t think of a cooler place to dip your toes into the trend than Gili Lankanfushi, a private island eco-sanctuary in the North Malé atoll, right around where modern surfing in the Maldives was born. The resort has teamed up with renowned surfing company Tropicsurf to offer weekly private and group instruction for all ages and levels. Tropical water temperatures, consistent swells, and light crowds only add to the appeal.
Trend: Skip-Gen
Sorry, mom and dad, but one of 2024’s hottest family travel trends involves leaving the parents at home. The perfect destination for skip-gen getaway? Dublin’s Westbury Hotel, which will delight more mature travelers with its residential-inspired design, museum-quality artwork, and the city’s best afternoon tea (with a dedicated tea sommelier!). There’s plenty on offer for younger travelers too, with a stuffed teddy bear welcome gift, child-sized robes and children’s toiletries, special turndown service with milk and cookies, and “teepee tents” for children under 12.
Trend: Off-Season Deals
During peak season, 90,000 visitors descend on Nantucket, crowding its cobblestone streets and family-owned restaurants. The traffic alone is reason to consider an off-season escape to the idyllic island, where there are hotel rates as low as $145 per night at the historic mansion turned boutique hotel Jared Coffin House as part of White Elephant’s “Hottest Dates, Coolest Rates” package.
Trend: Urban Gardens
Biophilic design is taking over entire cities. In Athens, families can learn about the city’s innovative climate solutions, like the transformation of a football stadium into a vast urban park, before carrying on to Santorini for a stay at NOUS, the island’s largest resort, which has been designed to resemble a whitewashed ancient Greek village. Rooms are clustered in distinct “neighborhoods,” and most of the accommodations have their own private pools and large private gardens planted with indigenous grass and shrubs — giving families plenty of room to spread out and reap the benefits of being in nature. Even the spa is ready for little guests with creative treatments for kids.
New itineraries will whisk guests to Tunisia, the Canary Islands and Mallorca while spotlighting the expertise of Smithsonian Journeys Experts, including scholars and museum curators
PONANT, a designer of inspiring voyages onboard small exploration ships, announces its 2025 sailings in collaboration with Smithsonian Journeys, the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution. Drawing on Smithsonian’s rich history as the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, the 30 itineraries—the most ever offered in one year, due to growing interest and demand— will feature notable experts and experiences that embrace local cultures and dive deeper into a destination’s history, cuisine, language, environment, and wildlife. PONANT and Smithsonian Journeys are rooted in common values, with the goal of further inspiring guests to become global citizens through travel. This is the fourth year PONANT and Smithsonian Journeys will offer co-branded sailings.
Several new itineraries include a two-week voyage from Lisbon to the Canary Islands (October 26-November 8, 2025); and a Mediterranean sailing encompassing Sicily, Sardinia, and Mallorca (October 3-10, 2025); while a newly enhanced itinerary features a circumnavigation of Sicily with a new stop in Tunisia for the archaeological site of Carthage (June 2-10; August 29-September 6, 2025). All will provide opportunities to engage with a variety of Smithsonian Journeys Experts, ranging from geologists to museum curators and archaeologists, bringing guests even closer to the spirit of these alluring destinations.
PONANT and Smithsonian Journeys will also bring back voyage-favorites from 2024 including a seven-night itinerary from Panama to Costa Rica, with an exclusive visit to the open-air Punta Culebra Nature Center of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (January 6-13, 2025); an eight-day exploration of the Greek Islands in the Southern Aegean, with ports of call at a different island each day (July 6-13; October 12-19, 2025); and a Mediterranean Island Voyage spanning Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba (May 26-June 2,2025).
Highlights of the 2025 voyages include:
New: Lisbon to the Canary Islands by Sea: Spain, Morocco, and Atlantic Isles, Le Bellot
On this voyage along the southern shores of Iberia to the isles of the eastern Atlantic, guests will encounter a fascinating range of cultures, histories, and landscapes—from the ochre cliffs of Portugal’s Algarve Coast to the lush valleys of Madeira and the volcanic craters of the Canary Islands (guests will visit La Palma, Tenerife, Lanzarote, and the lesser-visited La Gomera). Cultural riches will come into view during tours of the World Heritage sites of Seville, Spain and Rabat, Morocco. Other highlights include medina visits, a tour of Madeira’s Botanical Gardens, and the insights of onboard Smithsonian Journey Expert Allen Fromherz, a professor of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern history.
Departure on October 26-November 8, 2025 // 14 days
Starting from $9,020 per person
Newly Enhanced: A Circumnavigation of Sicily, Le Bougainville
This epic voyage begins as Le Bougainville pulls out of Valletta, Malta—one of the world’s most photogenic harbors—then docks on Sicily’s southern coast for a visit to the World Heritage site of Agrigento. But hold your breath for what’s next: on day three, guests will sail to Tunis, the vibrant, colorful capital of Tunisia, to discover the ancient ruins of Carthage, a city founded by the Phoenicians in the 9th century; meander along the blue-and-white lanes of Sidi Bou Said, a coastal town perched on a promontory overlooking the Mediterranean; and gaze upon stunning Roman mosaics at the Bardo Museum. Next up is Trapani, where guests can choose from three excursions, one of which involves viewing the iconic high-altitude castles in the medieval city of Erice. From there, it’s off to Palermo, Taormina, Syracuse, and the Aeolian Islands of Lipari and Stromboli, where volcano vistas, winery visits, and slopeside lunches are among the offerings.
Departures from June 2-10, and August 29-September 6, 2025 // 9 days
Starting from $7,420 per person
New: Cruising the Mediterranean: Sicily, Sardinia, and Mallorca, L’Austral
Starting in Valletta, Malta and ending in Tarragona, this eight-day voyage whisks around the Mediterranean, sailing from Sicily and Sardinia to the Balearic Islands of Menorca and Mallorca. Among the highlights are delving into Palermo’s centuries-old markets and encountering the city’s World Heritage-listed Arab-Norman architecture; discovering the cultural riches of Cagliari, Sardinia, which is known for its baroque palazzi, hilltop fortress, and archaeological ruins; and stepping back into history as you discover the Bronze Age ruins of Menorca and tour the magnificent Palma de Mallorca Cathedral, built on the site of a former mosque and rebuilt by Antoni Gaudí in the early 20th century.
Departure from October 3-10, 2025 // 8 days
Starting from $5,340 per person
Panama and Costa Rica by Sea, Le Bellot
Calling all environmentalists, intrepid outdoor explorers, and aspiring marine scientists: this eight-day itinerary from Panama to Costa Rica promises to immerse guests in some of the world’s most spectacular ecosystems—from mangrove forests and white-sand beaches to flora- and fauna-rich national parks—while offering rare insight into the critical work of nature conservation (expect an exclusive tour of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute’s Punta Culebra Nature Center). The voyage will also bring travelers close to local Indigenous communities on the San Blas Islands and in the World Heritage Site of Darién National Park and Playa Muerto, a small coastal village inhabited by the Emberá people. The onboard Expert is Hugh Neighbour, a former diplomat and U.S. Navy Officer with expertise in history, culture, and current affairs.
Departure from January 6-13, 2025 // 8 days
Starting from $6,054 per person
Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean, Le Dumont-d’Urville
Looking to cross off a half-a-dozen Greek islands in one go? This 8-day itinerary, which begins and ends in Athens, is your ticket to discovering the gem-like isles of the Dodecanese and Cyclades archipelagos, plus the lesser-visited Peloponnese peninsula. Explore the jewels of Patmos, Amorgos, and Delos, where activities include touring World Heritage Sites, meeting monks at an 11th century monastery, and visiting a typical Cycladic home to learn the age-old practice of distilling essential oils. Sanjaya Thakur—an expert in Greek and Roman history —will help guests better understand the islands’ overlapping cultures and archeological riches on the July departure.
Departures from July 6-13 and October 12-19, 2025 // 8 days
Starting from $5,940 per person
For more information, visit https://us.ponant.com/cruises/themes/smithsonian-journeys.
Please find a selection of hi-res images linked HERE.
ABOUT PONANT
PONANT’s “Explore to Inspire” mission is centered around exploration to better understand, learn, share and protect. For 35 years, PONANT has been committed to more responsible tourism and voyages of exploration which have meaning. The French-flagged fleet comprises 13 small capacity ships equipped with state of the art environmentally friendly equipment. With PONANT, exploration is refined, authentic and a source of inspiration. The company sails to the Arctic and the Antarctic as well as in the Atlantic and North Europe, Mediterranean, Middle East, Red Sea and the Indian Ocean, Asia, Oceania and South Pacific, the Caribbean, North, Central and South America. For more information, visit https://us.ponant.com or call 1-833-889-0800 or contact your travel advisor.
About the Smithsonian
Since its founding in 1846, the Smithsonian Institution has been committed to inspiring generations through knowledge and discovery. It is the world’s largest museum, education and research complex, consisting of 21 museums, the National Zoological Park, education centers, research facilities, cultural centers, and libraries. Two of the 21 museums – the National Museum of the American Latino and the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum – are in the early planning stages. The total number of objects, works of art, and specimens at the Smithsonian is estimated at nearly 155 million, of which nearly 146 million are scientific specimens at the National Museum of Natural History.
About Smithsonian Journeys
Smithsonian Journeys is part of Smithsonian Enterprises, a division of the Smithsonian which oversees the institution’s commercial activities, including the Smithsonian Channel, which is available in over 55 million households globally; the retail operation, which includes 35 museum and airport stores, food concessions; an E-commerce business, Smithsonianstore.com, and Smithsonian magazine, which reaches more than 8 million monthly readers, consumer and education licensing, and books. Smithsonian Journeys is a global leader in cultural travel for diverse audiences, offering unique, expert-led trips on all seven continents. In addition to ocean cruises with PONANT, Smithsonian Journeys offers small-group land journeys, river cruises, active journeys, cultural stays, private jet trips, tailor-made journeys for the independent traveler, and student travel programs.
From strolling the gardens at the Chelsea Flower Show to playing the Kilted Open golf tournament in Scotland to relaxing on the coast of Sardinia at Belmond’s newest opening, our top destinations for May are below!
London, UK
There’s no better time to stroll through London’s streets than in May when the temperatures begin to rise and the flowers begin to bloom. Everyone says that April showers bring May flowers – London is certainly no exception. The city’s annual Chelsea Flower Show is a world-renowned event for garden enthusiasts, showcasing breathtaking floral displays and innovative garden designs. Visitors can also learn from expert horticulturalists and explore the latest gardening trends. Stay in the heart of Chelsea at The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, London. During the show, stunning floral displays will frame the property’s front door and guests are invited to experience various flower-themed offerings including botanical cocktails and a floral-inspired afternoon tea by star pâtissier Benoit Blin. The property also offers early access to London’s oldest botanical garden and private tennis courts in Cadogan Place Gardens year-round.
Costa Smeralda, Italy
Italy topped Virtuoso’s top Honeymoon, Family and Global Destinations lists for 2024 and there’s no better place to experience Italy in May than Costa Smeralda. Located on the island of Sardinia, the coastal area boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters, breathtaking landscapes and pristine white sand beaches that have been enjoyed by celebrities such as the Clooneys, the Obamas and Elton John. Luxury hotel brand Belmond is joining the fun with the opening of Romazzino, a Belmond Hotel, Costa Smeralda at the end of the month. The property overlooks Costa Smeralda’s most picturesque coastline and is located on the alluring white beach of Spiaggia Del Romazzino. Conceived by Aga Khan in the 1960s and designed by famed architect Michele Busiri Vici, the hotel cultivated a reputation as Sardinia’s original beach hotel. Upon its reopening as a Belmond hotel, Romazzino will offer enchanting guest rooms including suites and villas, wellness facilities, artisanal experiences and two shimmering blue pools along a stretch of private beach to complete the villeggiatura experience.
Barcelona, Spain
Experience un día perfecto in Barcelona during the month of May with less tourists, milder temperatures and longer days. Stroll comfortably through the captivating Gothic Quarter, take stunning pictures of Sagrada Familia or enjoy line-free tapas at the city’s top foodie spots. Music lovers can get tickets for Primavera Sound, the city’s largest music festival starting on May 30th with Lana Del Rey, SZA, and Charli XCX on this year’s lineup. Between food, location and experiences, there’s no better place to experience the Catalonian capital than Almanac Barcelona. The property is located just off the Passeig de Gràcia and boasts a rooftop bar with a plunge pool and 360º views of the city, a plant-forward restaurant with a focus on fermented foods and probiotic drink pairings and a solo traveler package for any single travelers. To keep up with traveler demand this summer, United is launching its new daily flight route from San Francisco in May, marking the airline’s first time connecting the two cities. American Airlines will also join the fun with a new nonstop service from Dallas-Fort Worth to debut in June.
Napa Valley, CA
When travelers think of Napa Valley, they think of wine, but the region also offers a growing vibrant music scene. Come May, this stretch of Northern California will welcome the 11th annual BottleRock, one the country’s top music festivals with artists, including Ed Sheeran, Stevie Nicks, The Offspring, Nora Jones and Spanish rock veterans Mana. The three-day event, May 24-26, will have over 75 acts with stars from across half a century of music. In addition to performances, visitors can expect culinary experiences by Michelin-starred restaurants (La Toque and Press to name a few) and vino tastings by Schramsberg Vineyards, Napa Valley’s sparkling powerhouse. (This is wine country after all.)
Scottish Highlands, Scotland
The best way to enjoy Scotland in the summer is wearing a kilt while golfing, obviously. While the first recorded golf game was established in Scotland in the 15th century, golf enthusiasts can still book a spot at the Kilted Open (May 17-19), an annual tournament celebrating held in partnership with The Fife Arms hotel. Players are encouraged to wear kilts and come with an impressive team name; the best name wins a prize! The first half of the weekend is held at the historic Braemar Golf Club (1902) in the Cairngorms National Park, where players have the chance to swing their clubs while being watched over by golden eagles, stags and other rare wildlife. New this year, guests have the exclusive opportunity to play golf on the grounds of Balmoral Castle, the Scottish home of the Royal Family since 1852. On Sunday, players are brought to the Royal golf course to play nine holes, followed by a BBQ lunch prepared by the Balmoral team using produce from the estate. The place to stay while enjoying Scotland’s most famous sporting export is none other than the event’s hotel partner, The Fife Arms. A celebratory weekend package is now available and includes a two-night stay, a wine pairing dinner, 9th-hole refreshments, 19th-hole BBQ and drinks, and more.
Nantucket, MA
Warmer weather and fewer crowds make visiting Nantucket in May the perfect destination for an idyllic island getaway. The highlight of Nantucket in May is the 26th annual Nantucket Wine Festival, a four-day festival taking place from May 15th to 19th. The festival will showcase an impressive lineup of world-renowned winemakers and chefs, as well as tasting events and educational seminars. White Elephant Resorts will sponsor the Grand Cru Festival and host the keynote event, the Grand Tastings, where guests can sample more than 600 different wines from over 150 wineries around the world. For a quiet retreat with no shortage of award-winning culinary options, stay at The Wauwinet on the northeast end of the island. The property is home to TOPPER’s, the consecutive Wine Spectator’s “Grand Award” recipient for the past 27 years. It has the largest wine cellar on the island and a multi-million-dollar wine collection. Guests staying at The Wauwinet can tour the cellar and enjoy a wine-paired dinner at TOPPER’s, the perfect pairing with the wine festival. The Wauwinet offers a festival package allowing guests to book the Louis Roederer Wine Dinner curated by Chef Kyle, featuring delightful champagne and Camille ‘Hommage’ varietals [Jetblue and Delta nonstop flights from Laguardia to Nantucket start up again in May for the season].
With winter in full swing, travelers as well as cultural and culinary institutions have started flocking south to America’s favorite winter destination – Palm Beach. With new restaurants, an immersive creative arts scene spanning from ornate Gilded Age décor to contemporary pop-art, and a series of festivals and events, below is a preview of what’s new and notable in Palm Beach this season as well as the latest from White Elephant Palm Beach – the must-stay boutique hotel on island.
Palm Beach’s New Wave: A Cultural Renaissance
America’s first resort town is trending again. Palm Beach has been a favorite getaway for the jet set since the Gilded Age thanks to its sunny weather, miles of beaches, palm tree-lined streets and designer boutiques. Now, the resort town is beckoning a younger, fashion-forward crowd. Urbanites have relocated from major cities and a flurry of restaurants, galleries and boutiques have followed – reinvigorating the town with a chic new vibe while still retaining the island’s glamour of its past era. Recent New York culinary transplants include Harry’s, Adrienne’s and Felice at The Square in West Palm Beach, while 2024 will welcome Tutto Mare, a Mediterranean concept by the Tutto il Giorno restaurant group that will open at The Royal Poinciana Plaza as Palm Beach’s first and only intra-coastal waterfront destination, and Maman, a French café and bakery also at The Square.
Thriving Creative Culture
Palm Beach is also a growing destination for art and culture lovers. The Norton Museum of Art, which underwent a $100 million renovation in recent years, will host an upcoming exhibition (March 2-June 16) featuring a curated selection of works by Ellen Graham, the American portrait photographer known for her unplanned and unposed shots of actors, musicians, royals and athletes. Art galleries including Taglialatella and Gallery Biba feature some of the biggest names in progressive art movements: Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, Banksy and Robert Raushenberg. Another must-stop is the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum, the 100,000 square foot Gilded Age mansion and national historic landmark. With marble halls, lavish furnishings and gold leaf detailing the estate is an ode to the opulence of the early 1900s era – with an impressive art and antique collection with pieces dating back to the Renaissance. White Elephant Palm Beach, with a museum-worthy collection of its own featuring 120 original pieces of colorful, contemporary art, also offers an insightful glimpse into the architectural history of Palm Beach. The Architecture & Preservation Package includes two nights in a one-bedroom suite and a 1.5-hour architecture tour of the great homes and iconic buildings on island led by a representative from the Palm Beach Preservation Foundation.
Social Season: Calendar of Events
There is no shortage of events during the height of Palm Beach’s social season. Polo enthusiasts will head to the Winter Equestrian Festival, the longest-running equestrian event in the world, happening through March 31 or the Palm Beach International Polo Season at the nearby International Polo Club Palm Beach. Fashion lover? From February 15-21, the Palm Beach Jewel & Antique Show is a high-end showcase of rare stones and objects spanning every genre and combining many periods and movements. Meanwhile, the Historical Society of Palm Beach County will present an “Endless Summer: Palm Beach Resort Wear” exhibition, exploring the palm Beaches’ impact on fashion history, through May 25, 2024. Set against the clear blue waters, one of the largest boat shows in the world, Palm Beach International Boat Show, will also return on March 21 with over $1.5 billion worth of yachts, boats, and accessories on display.
Where to Stay: White Elephant Palm Beach
Nestled in the heart of Palm Beach sits an icon of Palm Beach luxury – White Elephant Palm Beach. With an enviable location just off Main Street, White Elephant Palm Beach is housed in the former Bradley Park Hotel, originally constructed in 1924 as one of the first resorts on Palm Beach’s Main Street. Today, the landmark building with a Mizner-style façade captures the spirit of a grand home with 32 residential-style rooms and suites, a buzzy restaurant (and another northeast transplant) LoLa 41, and exclusive amenities including access to the latest BMW series and Priority Bicycles to explore the island. Ideal for families or those who want to entertain, The Park Suite offers 1,500-square feet of privacy and refinement with four bedrooms, four bathrooms, a kitchen, and a private rooftop terrace is a luxurious home away from home. Bonus: With White Elephant Palm Beach’s Winter Suite Package, travelers who book a suite through March 31 will also enjoy daily in-room breakfast, a tour of the Flagler Museum, an afternoon tea for two at LoLa 41 and a guided, walking tour of the shop-lined Worth Avenue.
Rates start at $495 per night for a Deluxe King Room, $695 per night for a one-bedroom suite, and $3,295 per night for the Park Suite.
How to Get There
Nonstop flights are available into both Palm Beach from several U.S. cities including New York, Washington D.C., Boston, and Dallas. Many seasonal flights are returning to Palm Beach International Airport this winter as well, including daily direct service from Los Angeles on JetBlue starting December 2023 and from New York’s Westchester County on Delta as of November 10. There are also several nonstop flights into nearby Miami and Fort Lauderdale, including a new route from Ottawa on Porter Airlines – easily connected to Palm Beach in under one hour via the chic Brightline rail. It’s now easier than ever to explore the sunshine state with Brightline’s new extended service, effortlessly linking West Palm Beach with Miami, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando.