It’s not every day that you get to prepare a new journey through Mexico. This one started life on a casual, post-taco afternoon at Black Tomato HQ, where we idly wondered about weaving some of Mexico’s most diverse regions together in a way that our clients would love. The requirements were thus: lots of engaging things to see, great food and a heap of activities to keep you all entertained.
We spent a lot of time finessing the particulars, and this joyful journey is the result.
When we sat down to curate our latest trip through England and Scotland, we spent a lot of time drawing maps, making calls, calling in favors, and debating the finer points of bothies and bedrooms. It was a lot of work. And it was totally worth it.
The result is a trip that we’re thrilled by – and we think you will be too. It’s full of fine food, heaps of history, breathtaking landscapes, and some very royal treatment. You’ll be working your way around scones, drams, lochs, and a whole lot of drama – enjoying stays at some of the UK’s most enviable hotels along the way. Let’s get started.
“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.
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.
Have you ever wondered what it might feel like to find yourself on some strange other planet? If so, Chile’s Atacama Desert – the driest place on Earth – is about the closest we can get you (at least for the time being). Where red skies hang above and jagged rocks lie underfoot, there’s a deep otherworldliness to it; so far from the everyday that you may as well be on Mars. And to us? This is what freedom feels like.
On this trip, you’ll spend six days exploring the barren and breathtakingly beautiful landscapes of the Atacama – by way of lunar valleys, searing blue lagoons, and hot-air balloons. And with some of the clearest skies in the world, there’s nowhere better to gaze up at the spiralled stars of the Milky Way (don’t worry, we’ll sort the telescope). It’s pretty out of this world.
The heart of the Inca Empire from around 1100 to 1533 AD, the spirit of nature and tradition runs deep in Peru. Of course, there’s the ‘floating castle’ of Machu Picchu. But there’s a lot more. From Lima’s 80s ‘chicha’ street art neighborhoods and Virgilio Martínez’s cocoa lab in the Andes to the solitary Huaypo lagoon and Awana Kancha, the “weaver’s palace”.
On this journey, we’ll take you on an unforgettable expedition through some of its most enchanting sites and off-the-beaten-track secrets. The dramatic cliffs of Lima, the cloud forests of the Sacred Valley, the aqueducts of Tambomachay. Along the way, you’ll be led by some of the best and friendliest guides that Peru has to offer. Let’s dive in.
Lodged between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica is home to a dazzling 500,000 wildlife species and offers a wealth of adventures on both land and sea. Jungle ziplines, whitewater rafting, surfing swells and beachside gallops. It’s for good reason that Costa Rica is often considered one of the world’s foremost adventure capitals.
On this captivating adventure, we’ll show you why – taking you on a breathtaking expedition through the heart and to the wild edges of this mesmerising country. The cloud forests of Central Valley, the roaring rapids of Pacuare, the fresh sea air of Osa and Nicoya. Along the way, you’ll meet some of the inspirational people working to preserve Costa Rica’s vital natural habitats.
On this carefully curated family adventure, we’ll take you exploring along Bangkok’s elaborate waterways, walking alongside gentle giants in the Golden Triangle, picnicking beside waterfalls and hilltribe villages in Chiang Mai, and kayaking across Phuket’s glistening blue lagoons and mangrove forests. Tempted? Let’s get started.
GLIDE, DASH, AND WANDER THROUGH MARKETS AND TEMPLES
Touching down in Bangkok – a sprawling metropolis of glittering skyscrapers, bustling night markets, and towering Buddhist temples – you’ll head straight to Capella Bangkok, your home for the next few days. An urban oasis with panoramic views of the majestic Chao Phraya River, its collection of contemporary suites and villas are framed by lush tropical gardens, creating a cocoon of tranquillity. The perfect balm after a long flight.
After resting up at the spa or simply soaking in the views, alongside a local guide you’ll make your way into the city at dusk to explore during the ‘magical hour’, where temples are illuminated and the sound of tuk-tuks and jazz tunes are the rhythm of the night. Between seeing the layered, beautifully ornate spires and giant dvarapala (gate guardian) statues of the Grand Palace and the colorful floral murals of the Buddhist temple, Wat Arun, you’ll discover Bangkok’s renowned Na Na neighborhood. A stone’s throw away from Chinatown, here you’ll find neon lights and glowing lanterns, sizzling noodle stalls and bars with tucked-away gardens beneath the stars.
Over the following two days, you can choose how you and your family dig into the city. By chaotic yet thrilling tuk-tuk rides, from the elevated rapid Skytrain, on foot, or by colorfully striped longtail riverboat. Or all four. One of our favorite ways to explore? On water. Gliding along the Canals of Thonburi and other lesser-known waterways by riverboat, you’ll weave your way through the foundation of the city’s early development – a melting pot of Chinese, Portuguese, Muslim and European influences blended with Thai communities. Here, traditional stilted houses and the elaborate porticos of Wat Suwan temple line the banks of an intricate canal system.
Stepping out of your longtail boat (and off the beaten track), you’ll visit Baan Bu – a hand-hammered bronze bowl factory tucked away down narrow side streets dotted with Victorian-style lamp posts. After learning the secrets of this centuries-old craft, you’ll return to the water and quietly cruise towards your lunch spot for the day. A ‘rewilding Bangkok’ project, Poomjai Garden is a sustainable lush oasis amid the hustle and bustle of the city. Between lychee orchards, bamboo structures, and the historic Bangkhuntien canal, you’ll dine on authentic local dishes like sweet coconut dumplings wrapped in banana leaves. With a mission to preserve native trees, plants and herbs, you and your loved ones will experience the traditional garden culture of past generations and Poomjai Garden’s desire to protect it. Fresh, beautiful, delicious.
WALKING WITH THE GIANTS OF THE JUNGLE
Waving goodbye to the glittering skyscrapers of Thailand’s capital, we’ll take you to the hills and mountains of its northernmost province – Chiang Rai. At the confluence of the Mekong and Ruak rivers, lies Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort . Throughout the hotel, wooden carvings and artwork reflect that of a Lanna palace, which seems only fitting as it is perched at the gateway to Indochina. Behind the dramatic column-lined entrance, you’ll find a traditional spa, an infinity pool, squash and tennis courts, a fitness center, and a Thai cooking school. It’s safe to say, there’s something for the whole club. And here, everyone can do as much (or as little) as they like.
Over the next two days, you’ll spend your time making the most of the resort’s facilities and activities. Of those, we’d highly recommend walking with elephants. As you amble alongside these gentle giants, you’ll watch as they snack on branches, wander at their own pace through the jungle, socialise with each other, and bathe themselves in the river. Working alongside local charities and veterinarians, Anantara aims to educate and promote elephant welfare with their offer of sponsorships and learning-based experiences. And you can get involved. For the rescued elephants, it’s life changing. For your family, it’s a memory that’ll stay with you long after you return home.
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Having traveled extensively across the globe, we believe there’s no better compliment to Egypt than Jordan. Both remarkable destinations in their own right, uncover their splendour on this exhilarating twelve-night family adventure. From the last standing Wonder of the Ancient World to the lowest point on Earth, together you’ll unearth ancient secrets, learn age old traditions and explore captivating landscapes. In Egypt, witness Giza’s jaw dropping pyramids, learn the art of hieroglyphic writing and dine with views over the mighty Nile. In Jordan, journey across the red sands of the Wadi Rum desert, visit the majestic city of Petra by candlelight and float upon the salty waters of the Dead Sea. Filled right to the brim with hand-selected fun and fascinating educational encounters, this is one family trip you’ll never forget.
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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 inspire you before working with you to make your trip entirely your own. This month, we’re introducing a new highlight itinerary to Kenya that you can embark on today. Totally private, take it ‘as is’ or customize it to your heart’s content. This is what we do.
The original safari destination, Kenya is the perfect spot for a luxury family adventure. Beyond the abundant wildlife of the Maasai Mara, there is much to explore – from hands-on conservation efforts to cultural immersions. See your family’s eyes light up as they tick off the Big Five on a game drive, before delighting in the smaller details on alternative safaris that will see you travel by foot, horseback or mountain bike. You’ll watch the sunset from the original inspiration for Lion King’s Pride Rock, and there’s a fun introduction to Maasai culture with the chance to enroll in Maasai Warrior School. Packed full of unique experiences, this is the ultimate family safari.
To add extra magic to your time away, WSJ+ members will enjoy a complimentary Maasai beading lesson for the whole family. Learning techniques passed down through the generations and their importance to Maasai culture, this fun and interactive experience will also leave you with a unique souvenir of your time in Kenya.
Exclusive to WSJ+ members
This trip has been designed exclusively for WSJ+ members, drawing on our travel experts’ in-depth knowledge of Kenya and family travel. The experience, however, is yours and yours alone, with all of our trips private and customizable. 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 birding-focused safaris to conservation initiatives devised to protect the local rhino population.
- Exclusive benefits to elevate your experience, including a complimentary Maasai beading lesson for the whole family.
- Stays in Kenya’s most luxurious hotels, lodges and safari camps.
- Access to expert guides throughout.
- Unrivalled expertise in planning your trip to Kenya.
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