LUXURY TRAVEL BLOG

A UNIQUELY CURATED

FILTER POSTS BY OUR EXPERT TRAVEL DESIGNERS

The Art of Slow Travel in Japan: A Luxury Insider’s Family Itinerary
Asia Clare McClanahan Asia Clare McClanahan

The Art of Slow Travel in Japan: A Luxury Insider’s Family Itinerary

Yarimikan is definitely not luxurious; in fact, quite the opposite. I dare to even call it “nice”.  I hesitated to even share it here because, truthfully, for 95% of my clients I wouldn’t recommend it. There are far more polished, high-end ryokans in Japan. That said, I believe that for the right traveler it could be memorable. We’ve stayed at some truly incredible five-star properties around the world, yet Dave declared Yarimikan his favorite place we’ve traveled to. (granted he’s also the type of person who wants to live in a log cabin in the woods, plant trees while also driving his Porsche 911).  I’ve spent a lot of time trying to reconcile that feeling. On paper, it isn’t a place that neatly fits into the world of “Craft Traveler” recommendations. And yet I can’t stop thinking about it: its quirky uniqueness, its setting, the memories it left. What stayed with me wasn’t luxury, but character.

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The Full Circle: From a 1986 Inspection Trip to the 2026 A-List
Safari, Family Julia Carter Safari, Family Julia Carter

The Full Circle: From a 1986 Inspection Trip to the 2026 A-List

From a first inspection trip to Brazil at six weeks old in 1986 to being named to the 2026 Travel + Leisure A-List , this journey has been about more than just miles—it’s about the pursuit of mastery. Discover how a radical shift from being "pigeonholed" by one continent led to becoming an African Safaris Specialist dedicated to unlocking the world's most complex and soulful destinations.

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The Modern Kenya Safari: 4 Expert Takeaways on Luxury, Layout, and Contrast
Kenya Julia Carter Kenya Julia Carter

The Modern Kenya Safari: 4 Expert Takeaways on Luxury, Layout, and Contrast

Is combining multiple camps in the Maasai Mara overkill? After vetting eight properties over twelve nights, our team of seven "Crafties" discovered that the perfect Kenya itinerary isn't about finding one great camp—it’s about the strategic mastery of contrast. From the "purist" safari adventure at Alex Walker’s Serian to the refined sanctuary of Ishara and the "Goldilocks" sweet spot of Mara Bushtops, we explore why the Laikipia Plateau and diverse Mara conservancies should never be an afterthought.

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Patagonia In November- Everything to See & Do
Chile, Patagonia Julia Carter Chile, Patagonia Julia Carter

Patagonia In November- Everything to See & Do

November is the "sweet spot" for a Patagonian expedition. As spring reaches its peak, the region transforms with blooming wildflowers and active wildlife, including newborn guanacos and nesting penguins. Enjoy nearly 15 hours of daylight and accessible hiking trails in Torres del Paine and El Chaltén, all before the peak summer crowds arrive in December.

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Patagonia in October: Everything To See & Do
Chile, Patagonia Julia Carter Chile, Patagonia Julia Carter

Patagonia in October: Everything To See & Do

Experience the raw beauty of Patagonia in October as the region wakes up for spring. With the return of migratory penguins, the reopening of luxury lodges, and the first blooms in the valleys, October offers a rare window to explore the granite peaks of Torres del Paine and the glaciers of El Calafate without the peak-season crowds or high summer winds.

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Year in Review, Safari, Italy, Iceland, Patagonia, 2025 Julia Carter Year in Review, Safari, Italy, Iceland, Patagonia, 2025 Julia Carter

2025 Year in Review: Our Travel Takeaways and Personal Picks for Best in Hospitality

2025 was our year of intentionality. From logging 108 nights across Europe to deep-diving into the wilds of Patagonia and Iceland, our team chose depth over breadth. Discover our defining philosophies for the year and browse our curated list of the world's best hotels, safaris, and "best kept secret" experiences.

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Europe Julia Carter Europe Julia Carter

Chenot Palace Weggis Review: My 7-Night 'Life-Changing' Detox Program

Is Chenot Palace Weggis Worth It? Yes, 100%. It’s a profound and challenging medical detox that delivered on its promise. I left feeling restored, energized, and seven pounds lighter, with a new perspective on food and wellness. It was a life-changing experience I would recommend to anyone feeling burnt out and in need of a true reset.

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