Thailand: An Unforgettable Family Adventure

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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 subwaypolis 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.

DISCOVER ANCIENT RUINS, HILLTRIBE VILLAGES AND SIZZLING STREET STALLS

Your next destination? Chiang Mai. Specifically, the charming Mae Rim Valley. Serene rice fields, verdant vegetation, misty mountains – they’re all here. And so is Four Seasons Chiang Mai. Settling in for three luxurious nights at this enchanting resort, you’ll spend your time choosing between learning the ropes at its acclaimed Thai cooking school and unwinding in its world-renowned spa. Each room is classic and contemporary in design, with features made of tropical hardwoods, silk, and art.

Over the next few days, you’ll discover Chiang Mai City’s evening and daytime delights. In Thailand’s ‘rose of the north’, you’ll grab a tuk-tuk ride through the heart of the old town; stopping off at aromatic food markets set up between multi-tiered Lanna buildings. After you’ve tried and tasted to your heart’s content, indulging in sweet mango sticky rice, spicy Sai Oua (sausage wraps cooked with lemongrass and chilli), and fried quail eggs, you’ll explore the key historical sites of the city such as 700-year-old Wat Umong and the earthy-hued remains of Wiang Kum Kam (the ruins of a 13th century fortified city encircled by moats). We’ll take you to the granite peaks of Doi Suthep, where you’ll discover sweeping views of the city and ripe clusters of breadfruit trees, encircled by small shrines and countless Buddha statues.

Swapping cityscapes for forested hills, you’ll spend your last day in Chiang Mai navigating the green-coated slopes and tiered waterfalls of Mae Wang National Park. Within 700 square kilometres of golden cliffs, pine hill forests, and glistening rivers, you’ll trek between monkey-flower trees with scarlet red blooms and spear-like bamboo. Perfect for adventure seekers and gentle amblers alike, you’ll trek hard (or light) through the beautiful natural surroundings.

Between witnessing the way of life of a hilltribe village amid the greenery and taking a refreshing dip beneath one of the park’s many waterfalls, we’ll arrange for a picnic lunch beside a trickling stream. After spending time in the hilltribe village or trekking to Mae Wang Base Camp – or both – there’s time for the finishing touch. After all, there’s nothing quite like putting your feet up after a day of exploring – on a raft. As you float down the river – quietly, calmly – enjoy the leafy surrounds, watching as the rich forests slip by on both sides, offering shade and a chance to reflect on the day’s adventures.

KAYAK BETWEEN EMERALD ISLES AND GAZE UPON GLOWING CAVES

Leaving the mainland behind, we’ll take you to the sun-soaked shores of Phuket – Thailand’s largest island. Located in the Andaman Sea off the southeast coast, its green-blue waters lap against limestone karsts covered in jungle and tropical hills transcend into sea. Weaving your way between centuries-old ficus trees and dangling fishtail palms, you’ll head to a secluded cove along the northwestern shore to check in at Trisara. A collection of luxury terraced villas and residences artfully arranged within nature and offering breathtaking views of hillsides, gardens, and the sea below, it radiates blissful seclusion.

Over the following four days, you’ll spend your time exploring the resort and the surrounding area more thoroughly. Whether that be by kayak, jet ski, or private yacht. Or all three.
Setting off on a private boat excursion to Phang Nga Bay, you’ll hop into your own kayaks to get a closer look at the dramatic limestone karsts – mighty cliffs and towers formed over thousands of years of erosion. Seeking out hidden caves, blue lagoons, and the mangrove forests of Koh Panak and Koh Hong, the natural beauty here hits different. Especially at night. Once you’ve tucked into dinner, served at sunset as you float along tranquil waters, that’s when things start to get truly magical. Picking up your paddles once more, you’ll glide into caves illuminated by natural phosphorescent plankton – specks and streaks of glowing blue glistening like stars. It’s mesmerising – and unforgettable.

On your penultimate evening, for older families we’ll arrange a night out on the town at Phuket’s wildest cabaret – the Junkyard Theater. Here, comedy, music, dance, mayhem (and sustainability) take center stage. Props used in their productions are crafted from discarded ‘junk’ found around Phuket, transforming something ordinary into something extraordinary. For a night of live performance and a curated dining experience, look no further.

The following day, you’ll choose between trying your hand at a spot of tennis, relaxing with a spa treatment inspired by the surrounding ficus trees, taking a stroll along the private white sand beach or taking a dip in the 45-meter saltwater pool. You could kayak, you could simply soak in the views. It’s up to you – and your clan. No matter how little or big, this family adventure through Thailand will spark childlike wonder in everyone. In countless ways, and in countless places. Let’s begin.

Egypt & Jordan: A Cultural Family Vacation

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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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A Luxury Hawaii Adventure by Land, Sea & Sky with WSJ+

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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 Hawaii that you can embark on today. Take it ‘as is’ or customize it to your heart’s content.


An opportunity to rest and reflect as well as immerse yourself and explore, this is eight big nights in Hawaii experiencing the best these incomparable islands have to offer. Helicopter into volcanic craters on Kauai before snorkeling beneath the moonlight with manta rays off Big Island. For each high-octane moment, there’s one of tranquility; with dolphins encountered in the morning light of the Na Pali coast and hidden waterfalls inviting an afternoon swim. A sunset sail up the Kona coast by private catamaran completes the experience.

To add extra magic to your time away, WSJ+ members will enjoy a complimentary sunrise Hawaiian outrigger canoe experience. See the sunrise over Mauna Kea as you embrace ancient Hawaiian tradition and discover the significance of wa’a (canoeing) in local life.

Exclusive to WSJ+ members

This trip has been designed exclusively for WSJ+ members, drawing on our travel experts’ in-depth knowledge of Hawaii. 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 doors-off helicopter flights to after-dark snorkel trips in the company of manta rays.
  • Exclusive benefits to elevate your experience.
  • Stays at Hawaii’s most luxurious hotels and resorts.
  • Access to expert guides throughout.
  • Unrivalled expertise in planning your trip to Hawaii.

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Pacuare to Papagayo: A Luxury Conservation Adventure in Costa Rica

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Costa Rica has always been a favorite destination of ours, whether for a burst of adventure or the chance to lose ourselves in the natural world. Covered by dense rainforest and fringed by wild coastlines, a countrywide commitment to conservation and sustainability have only drawn us in further. In search of ‘la pura vida’, we’ve traversed every inch of jungle to craft the perfect journey through Costa Rica. A journey that will see you canyoning down a waterfall one minute and harvesting your dinner the next, you’ll get to know locals Jose and Don Juan as you learn all about Costa Rica’s green perspective. In between, you’ll retreat to luxury lodges in unique locations, from wild riverbanks to volcanic foothills. Traveling in the company of expert guides throughout, you’ll discover an authentic Costa Rica.

Private Dining on a Remote Riverbank

Touching down in San Jose, you’ll quickly leave the city behind as you head straight out into the rainforest, tracing the Pacuare River. The adventure starts before you’ve even arrived at your first hotel as you journey down an off-road track by 4×4 before crossing the river by cable car to check in. Pacuare Lodge sits high up on the riverbank with an infinity pool that seemingly reaches out into the jungle and beautiful rooms that occupy their own corner of the canopy and will be your home for your first two nights. Starting the trip off in style, we’ll arrange for you to enjoy a private firepit dinner down on the riverbank tonight.

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Best of Uruguay: A Luxury Vacation from the Vines to the Beach

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Hugged by Argentina and Brazil, Uruguay often finds itself shying away from the limelight of Latin America. But that’s precisely why we love it. Though comparatively small in stature, Uruguay packs a punch and offers up a truly authentic experience for those who know where to look. Allow us to show you the way on this ten-day journey through our favorite corners. We’ll take you through UNESCO preserved heritage to vineyards that will transport you to the Tuscan hills and onto a wild and rugged coastline dusted off with an international art scene. Along the way, you’ll meet local friends, such as Lobo and Fabio, and hole up in luxurious boutique properties surrounded by untouched scenery. This is Uruguay, as no-one knows it.

Colonial History in Colonia del Sacramento

Arriving in Montevideo, your trip starts two hours west in Uruguay’s cultural center, Colonia del Sacramento. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Colonia is characterised by its cobbled streets, historic buildings and colonial influences. Checking into the boutique Charco Hotel, you’ll be at the center of it all. Home for just tonight, head straight out on a privately guided walking tour of the city’s historic quarter, taking in all the sights and initiating yourself in the ritual of mate. A popular Uruguayan drink, an afternoon tasting will see it become a permanent fixture in the remainder of your trip.

Lend a hand at a generations-old family winery

From Colonia, you’ll continue your journey to Carmelo, the heartland of wine in Uruguay, spending two nights at Narbona Wine Lodge where just five rooms sit amid sprawling vineyards and a working winery and farm. After a tantalising first taste, you’ll set off to explore the landscapes beyond the vines with a private river cruise through the islands of the delta of the Rio de la Plata and Rio Uruguay. Leaving just before sunset, the riverbanks will be bathed in a golden glow as you glide by on your classic boat, raising a toast to this enigmatic corner. Tomorrow, you’ll visit two local, family-owned and run wineries where you’ll be able to lend a hand in the harvesting, bottling or grape selecting process depending on the season. You’ll also be shown around both vineyards by the owners themselves as they host you for wine tastings and a traditional asado lunch.

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Argentina: Experience Patagonia from a Luxury Private Camp

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A landscape as unique as Argentine Patagonia, deserves to be experienced to the fullest. With that in mind, and in the company of our team of local Patagonian experts, we’ve rolled out the map, picked out the perfect spot and planned a route through all of this breathtaking majesty. We’re setting up camp (literally) and bringing some of the best guides, astronomers and chefs in the country with us. This is no ordinary camping trip though, with luxurious setups complete with woodburning hot tubs. Your camp is completely customisable, meaning your experience is too. Spend two nights slumbering beneath wide-open skies with time either side of that to explore further with a night at the Rojo Tango in Buenos Aires, a mate tasting on the shores of Nahuel Huapi Lake and a further starlit experience on the remote Isla Victoria. Bring friends, bring family – or simply come as you are. This is one for the ages.

 

(An example of what our luxury camp in San Martín de los Andes looks and feels like)

Highlights

  • Spend two nights in a luxury Black Tomato Blink camp, designed exclusively for you. Our camps come fully equipped with four-poster beds with high-quality bedding, luxury bathroom facilities, private chefs and expert guides – as well as spa therapists, bartenders and white water rafting instructors if you so wish.
  • Experience a traditional Argentinian asado from your luxury camp, beneath a star-blanketed sky and complete with local music and entertainment.
  • Either side of your luxury camp, we are able to curate a custom set of experiences throughout Argentina – such as a night in a luxury wilderness camp on the remote Isla Victoria or an evening behind the scenes of one of Buenos Aires’s top speakeasy bars.

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St Lucia, Barbados & Jamaica: A Gourmet Getaway in the Caribbean

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Freshly caught fish off the coast of St Lucia; Complex rum flavors in the Abbeys of Barbados; Family-treasured jerk recipes on the streets of Jamaica. Each Caribbean island boasts its own distinct flavor.

Think of the Caribbean and think of a riot of color, culture and flavor. There’s a heady concoction of tastes to be found here, all of which combine to create something quite remarkable. Proof that the Caribbean is not just for the beachcombers, spend ten days hopping between the vibrant isles of St Lucia, Barbados and Jamaica and discover the unique flavor of each. From freshly caught fish off St Lucia to the complex rum flavors of Barbados and the family-treasured jerk recipes of Jamaica, this trip will have your appetite fully sated. But never content just to satisfy, we’ll bookend these culinary experiences with immersive local encounters and island explorations by white water raft, horseback and catamaran. Ensuring every whim is catered to, right down to that all-important sea view from the islands’ best hotels, it’s time to escape to the Caribbean.

Get a taste of island life alongside one of St Lucia’s budding young chefs in the charming fishing village of Soufriere

Your culinary immersion begins on the Piton-peaked island of St Lucia where you’ll spend three nights at the stunning enclave of Sugar Beach, strolling barefoot along a beach that’s every bit as perfect as it sounds. Settle in, perhaps stopping by the Rainforest Spa for one of their signature chocolate body polishes, before exploring the charming fishing village of Soufriere the next day. Here, you’ll spend some time getting to know the local culture as you sample some of the island’s favorite foods – from vegetable soup to fried dumplings and cocoa tea, before enjoying a tasting with one of the island’s up-and-coming chefs.

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Eater Journeys: Melbourne

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As experts in luxury travel, we know a thing or two about getting around the world in style.

That’s why we’ve combined our round-the-world travel expertise with the culinary insight of Eater. This slice-by-slice tour of Australian food, and the landscapes which gave rise to it, is the result, making use of our approach to truly bespoke, experiential travel. Scroll down to read the full itinerary or click the button below to browse more food-focused Eater experiences.

MORE EATER JOURNEYS


The fourth itinerary in our co-curated trip series with Eater, this Melbourne trip takes the food authority’s piping-hot recommendations and blends them with Black Tomato’s global travel knowledge. The result? The ultimate food-focused itinerary to Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula. Read below to find out more or see our other Eater Journeys here.

Home of bohemian culture, creative hipsters and charming suburbs with no shortage of incredible dining experiences, Melbourne really does have it all. Australia’s trendiest city is a hotspot among coffee-fanatics and food-lovers alike, with every turn bursting with multicultural flavors from around the globe. For the next six nights, you’ll eat your way around Melbourne, before heading out to the coastal delights of the Mornington Peninsula and the vineyards of Yarra Valley to round up a truly tantalising Aussie adventure.

A true taste of Melbourne

Diving straight into the rhythm of Melbourne, the sleek QT Melbourne hotel will your base for the next two nights of food-focused exploration. Appetite ready, on day one your private guide will whisk you off for a Melbourne Food Trails tour, as you taste your way through five satisfying food stops. Layer by layer, we’ll peel away the highlights of food, architecture and history of a city bursting with community pride. Inspiring stories shared by your guide at the Immigration Museum will provide insight into how the migration of over 200 nationalities has evolved Melbourne and how food is celebrated as the heartbeat of its culture.

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See It All in Israel: The Old, The New & The Unknown

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A place that’s stood the test of time and now looks to the future, Israel is an intricate story waiting to be told. From the deep history and sanctity of Jerusalem to the energetic pulse and changing landscape of Tel Aviv, spend eight nights traveling through Israel and discover all the influences that have come together to make the country what it is today. Along the way, you’ll be joined by expert guides and specialists in fields such as defence, cuisine and design to make sure you really get under the skin of the destination. Whether snorkelling through the ruins of Caesarea, rappelling down Ramon Crater or wandering the tunnels of the Kotor, you’ll unearth a side to Israel few others have seen. Dusted off with a few days out in the solitude of the Negev Desert, leave no stone unturned on this luxury vacation to Israel.

Ancient Jerusalem

Touching down in the ancient capital of Jerusalem, we’ll be on hand to whisk you off to the stylish Mamilla hotel for the next three nights. Right on the fringes of the Old City, take the rest of the day at a leisurely pace, perhaps enjoying the sunset from the rooftop lounge before setting off on your first discovery tomorrow. Join an expert guide as you take a deep dive into Jerusalem’s Old City and join the dots between Holy Sites revered by the Jewish, Christian and Muslim faiths. From the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, we’ll head to the Dome of the Rock where, if you let us know in advance, we’ll arrange for you to go up into the Dome itself. From there, we’re taking you subway to the 485metres of the Kotel that sit hidden from view from the surface. It’s an up-close look at one of Jerusalem’s most iconic sights – but from a whole new perspective.

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Jerusalem & Tel Aviv: A Cultural Week in Israel

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Israel is a feast for the mind and senses. Fulfilling all curiosities, this destination is teeming with rich culture, natural beauty and complex history. Bringing together Jerusalem’s ancient walls and luring markets with the golden beaches and pulsating entrepreneurial rhythm of Tel Aviv, delve into the stories that have shaped the Holy land on a compelling six-night journey through Israel’s past and present. Gain local insight with a visit to local communities, expert insight as you tour the Israel Museum with a Docent and historical insight with visits to old munitions factories and Holocaust memorials. Accompanied by some of the best guides in the business, you’ll leave no stone unturned in this culture-packed week in the Middle East.

WELCOME TO THE OLD CITY

Your Israeli narrative begins in Jerusalem. Landing at Ben Gurion Airport, you’ll be whisked off by private transfer to the luxury Mamilla Hotel where for three nights you’ll be perfectly based in the heart of the historic center. Relax and soak up the atmosphere from the comfort of Mamilla’s sun-trap rooftop lounge and witness the sweeping vistas over the Old City with a glass of wine in hand. Over the next two days, you’ll be diving deep into the hidden realms of ancient Israel. Start off uncovering the city’s sacred Jewish, Christian and Muslim sites with the expertise of your private guide, from the Kotel (Western Wall) and Church of the Holy Sepulchre to the heartbeat of ancient Jerusalem – the City of David. Lose yourself within its old passageways, hidden springs and subway tunnels that date back three-thousand years, where kings and prophets once wandered and where the original books of the Bible were written.

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