“Iceland will serve everything you could ever imagine” – Ashley Longshore
We’ve been friends with Ashley Longshore – dubbed “fashion’s latest art darling” by The New York Times – for many years. So, when the renowned, New York-based pop artist came to us in search of something passionate, peculiar, and freeing, our thoughts immediately turned to Iceland. Ashley agreed.
On the eve of returning home, Ashley was rhapsodic: “I don’t want to leave you; I love you!” So, given this elated review, it was only natural that we’d turn Ashley’s trip into a journey that you can enjoy too. It’s a lot of Iceland – and a lot of Ashley. The perfect combination, if you ask us.
For more of Ashley’s Iceland, have a listen to her episode of The Pursuit of Feeling.
The home of Vikings, polar explorers like Børge Ousland, and natural phenomena like the Northern Lights and Midnight Sun, Norway is the land of legends. Taking you through fjords, forests, and fishing villages, we’ll show you its heart.
On this wild adventure, you’ll traverse land and sea – from the hillsides of Ålesund to the chic city streets of Oslo; exploring the glacier-carved fjords of Bergen and the remote islands of Lofoten and Steigen. Along the way, you’ll be led by some of Norway’s most adventurous guides. Let’s dive in.
A world of holy cities, mountain shrines, and ancient ayurveda healing, India nourishes the body (and the soul).
On this soothing Subcontinental journey, you’ll disconnect from the cares of the everyday; rising to open-air yoga in the Himalayas, attending Hindu blessings in Jaipur, and gliding along the sacred waters of the River Ganges at sunrise (and sunset). Along the way, you’ll flow with yogic gurus, followers of Gandhian values, and scholars of Indian religion.
Returning home, you’ll feel refreshed and revitalized; having found a sense of peace that you’ll carry home with you.
Greece is dreamlike. That’s if – like ours – your dreams are colored by zigzags of blue-white houses, fragrant olive groves, pretty fishing villages, and visions of a balmy Aegean Sea.
Happily, this trip weaves these things together at a blissfully gentle pace. We’ll take you through some of the country’s lesser-traveled corners; moving gradually south from quirky Thessaloniki to the Halkidiki peninsula and around the Sporades Islands, with a sublime finale on Sifnos. Equal parts slow and sweet, this one’s a recipe for contentment. Tried and tested, of course.
Okinawa – Japan’s southernmost prefecture – is the ultimate tropical paradise. With 160 islands (and its historic status as the independent Ryukyu Kingdom), Okinawa offers an unexpectedly care-free take on the land of the rising sun.
On this vibey and vibrant journey, we’ll take you to not one, but two Okinawan islands. Weaving your way southwest from Okinawa Main Island to the diving mecca of Miyako, you’ll explore these subtropical “worlds”. Along the way, you’ll be led by some of Okinawa’s warmest and most knowledgeable guides. Let’s dive in.
Some things go hand in hand – like Laos and Cambodia. Both are home to ancient, soulful cities where mornings are treasured in sacred silence – through the ritual of collecting alms in Luang Prabang and the anticipation of catching the sunrise at Angkor Wat.
On this captivating journey, we’ll take you through the jungles of Laos and Cambodia to the bioluminescent beaches of the Koh Rong Archipelago. Weaving your way south across Southeast Asia, you’ll trek alongside elephants, explore 12th-century temples, and swim between coral reefs. Along the way, you’ll be led by some of Laos and Cambodia’s most knowledgeable local guides.
Some things are better together – like Cambodia, Thailand and the Maldives.
On this mesmerising journey, we’ll take you to not one, but three different “worlds”; experiencing some of their most spectacular sights with the knowledge and guidance of our hand-picked local guides. You’ll start in Cambodia, exploring ancient wonders in the jungles of Angkor. Then, to Thailand, where you’ll walk side-by-side with elephants in the Golden Triangle. Finally, you’ll rest up in the Maldives on your own private island encircled by coral reefs.
Named ‘the scented isle’, in Corsica you’ll breathe in the perfect blend of pure mountain air, wildflowers, aromatic herbs, and the salty scent of the sea. Inspired by the captivating natural beauty of this iconic French island, we’ve curated an unforgettable trip on which you’ll embrace the art of rural relaxation every day – and night. We’ll take you horseback riding along Domaine de Murtoli’s private beach, exploring sprawling vineyards perched atop Bonifacio’s white limestone cliffs, and stargazing whilst you dine on sweet chestnut cake, citrusy canistrelli biscuits, silky local honey and creamy brocciu cheese on your very own moonlit picnic. Let’s begin.
EXPLORE ANCIENT TOWNS AND DINE BETWEEN OLIVE TREES
Touching down in Ajaccio, you’ll make your way south along winding roads. Your first stop? A picturesque seaside resort, Propriano. On the way, you’ll take a detour to the Valley of Taravo. Home to archaeological sites dating from Corsica’s Neolithic era, here you’ll discover an extraordinary array of statues and dolmens tucked between lush greenery and glistening rivers. Now, for lunch. At the ancient town of Propriano, choose from the vast selection of tempting restaurants and buzzing café terraces that line the marina. One of our favourites? Chez de Parenti – a family-run restaurant boasting the freshest local ingredients and a beautiful terrace overlooking the marina.
After being wined and dined, you’ll head through acres upon acres of stunning green countryside bordered by luscious mountains to check in at Domaine de Murtoli, your home for the next few days. A collection of beautifully converted 17th-century shepherd huts overlooking everything from the forests and mountains to the sea below, it radiates blissful seclusion. And breath-taking views of lush meadows that extend towards glittering ocean.
On your first evening, we’d highly recommend a visit to The Table de la Plage – just one of the hotel’s many enchanting restaurants. Situated between olive trees on a terrace illuminated by thousands of candles, this Mediterranean-style restaurant creates a mesmerising ambience. And tantalising gourmet cuisine. Here, you’ll tuck into fresh grilled lobster, citrusy ravioli stuffed with wild thyme and sage, and sweet strawberry and pecan crumble as you sip on traditional French wines bursting with velvety, floral notes. Don’t mind if you do.
GALLOP ALONG THE BEACH AND GAZE UPON SHOOTING STARS
Over the next two days, you’ll spend your time exploring the beautiful natural surroundings more thoroughly. Whether that be on foot, by boat, or on horseback. Or all three.
Setting off on a private boat excursion, you’ll navigate your way along Corsica’s magnificent coastline. Seeking out little creeks and untouched secret beaches – and snorkelling through vibrant blue waters along the way. Having dipped and dived to your heart’s content, you’ll return to Domaine de Murtoli for a spot of relaxation. But it won’t be long until you hear the call of the sea once more. Heading to the beach the following day, this time on horseback, your expert guide will lead the way. After trotting through green meadows dusted with wildflowers and country lanes lined with olive trees, you’ll swap countryside for seaside as you arrive at the ocean’s edge. At sunset. For that bucket list-worthy horse ride along the beach – between green-carpeted mountains and sweeping white sands – there’s no place better. Or as beautiful.
In the evening, make your way to the Ospédale for a mesmerising night of stargazing. Observing the wonders of the Milky Way amid the fresh mountain air, with your local expert guide, you’ll gain a fascinating insight into the world of Astrophysics. To top it off? A gourmet picnic dinner beneath the stars.
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Ancient ruins are the backdrop to venturesome days and peaceful evenings on this jam-packed family getaway in Greece. Our Travel Experts, with their families in tow, have perfected this Greek odyssey that’ll immerse you in welcoming cities, white stone ruins and secluded isles. From adventurous outings uncovering the myths and mysteries of ancient Greece to days spent unwinding on sunny sandy beaches, this trip – which will take you from Athens to Mykonos to Crete – has something for everyone. As ever, it’s adaptable to suit families of all shapes and sizes, ensuring your trip is totally tailored to you. Every family is different, after all.
Athens: A historical adventure
Your first stop is Athens: an ancient place with a modern heart. Iconic archaeological sites go hand-in-hand with a succession of effortlessly chic restaurants, shops and hotels here. You’ll feel this duality immediately checking in at AthensWas, your home for the first four nights. Situated on a beautiful pedestrian street with boutiques, local tavernas and snaking side streets aplenty, AthensWas oozes contemporary cool.
You’ll be fully immersed in the historical remnants of Greece’s glorious past, firstly on a private day tour of Argolis, including a visit to the theatre at Epidaurus – one of the best preserved classical Greek buildings still used today, famous for its astonishing acoustics. The following day, after a scenic drive through mountains and fertile valleys of olive groves, you’ll arrive at Delphi – a UNESCO-listed archaeological site. Considered the ‘centre of the world’ in ancient Greece, your private guide will walk you through the Temple of Apollo and the Navel of the Earth, before you discover long-lost wonders together at the Delphi Museum.
The next day, you’ll embark on an interactive family tour of the world-famous Acropolis, discovering its history from a mythological perspective, through the stories of Greek gods, goddesses and heroes. You’ll then say goodbye to Athens, but it doesn’t end here, as you jump on a quick flight over to the mystical island of Mykonos in the heart of the South Aegean.
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We’re working with WSJ+ to create entirely customizable and private trips for you, their members. Our Travel Experts are here to make your trip entirely your own. Private, customizable, and totally flexible. This is what we do. This month, we’re introducing a new highlight itinerary to Italy that you can embark on today. Take it ‘as is’ or customize it to your heart’s content.
Rolling hills, lustrous waters and food fit for the gods; Tuscany, Sorrento and Amalfi make an irresistible trio. On this eight-night escape, you’ll wind your way from verdant landscapes punctuated by cypress trees down to cliffsides in crumbling hues of pastel. Along the way, sample award-winning wines, cruise across the Mediterranean on a private yacht to Capri and learn to cook the Neapolitan way. An undeniably Italian escape, you really will be living la dolce vita.
To add extra magic to your time away, WSJ+ members will enjoy complimentary rental of a vintage Alfa Romeo Spider. The perfect way to explore the Tuscan hillsides, we’ll send you out with a map and a picnic basket and leave the rest up to you.
Exclusive to WSJ+ members
This trip has been designed exclusively for WSJ+ members, drawing on our travel experts’ in-depth knowledge of Italy. The experience, however, is yours and yours alone, with all of our trips private and customisable. What you’ll find below, therefore, is simply a suggestion. Our Travel Experts will work with you to devise an itinerary based on your inquiry, budget, group size, and desires. Typically, this will include everything from the experiences you do (and the guides that will take you there) to the hotels you’ll bed down in and the trains, planes and automobiles that will take you in between. We can also help with international flights, if you like.
WSJ+ members will receive:
- Immersive experiences tailored to your interests. This could include anything from closed-door cellar access to private yacht trips.
- Exclusive benefits to elevate your experience, including complimentary rental of a vintage Alfa Romeo Spider.
- Stays in Italy’s most luxurious hotels.
- Access to expert guides throughout.
- Up-to-date COVID travel advice – including arrangements for any required PCR or antigen testing whilst travelling.
- Unrivalled expertise in planning your trip to Italy.
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