Time with family is precious, so make your next vacation together exceptional. Whether you are seeking a spectacular safari, a luxurious train journey through the mountains or a decadent city escape, find out why a Luxury Gold tour is just perfect for families with grown-up children.

Enjoy once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experiences

There are few experiences more exhilarating than getting up close and personal with the earth’s most majestic wildlife. And for families with grown-up children, sharing these moments together is even more special. Seeing wild animals in their natural habitat is both a privilege and unforgettable experience that will create a lifetime of memories.

Join us on our 9-day Spectacular South Africa tour, and spend three sublime days immersed in wildlife at the famous Kruger National Park. Experience the thrill and excitement of tracking Africa’s Big Five: the lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo.

Safari by day and dine on a candle-lit terrace at night, listening to the sounds of wild animals in the evening air. And rest your heads at night at your exquisite 5-star retreat.

Read more: Where the wilderness and luxury combine: Step inside the Lion Sands Game Reserve

Discover this on: Spectacular South Africa

In Ranthambore National Park, India, search out the elusive tigers in their natural habitat as you stalk the former private hunting grounds of the maharajahs.

On our Essence of India tour, join a Local Expert on a quest for these spectacular tigers and explore the lakes and palace ruins of the park with an Expert Naturalist. These include traditional Chhatri dome-shaped pavilions, old fortifications and a magnificent 1,000-year-old fort.

Read more: Walking with the king of the big cats in India’s royal hunting grounds

Discover this on: Essence of India

Take a luxurious train journey

Imagine taking a luxurious train journey with your children on some of the world’s most iconic routes, enjoying first class service and magnificent views across stunning landscapes. Relax, share memories and precious moments, dine in style and watch the world unfold.

@rockymountaineer

Travel with Luxury Gold on Majesty of the Rockies and journey though snow-capped peaks and lush valleys aboard the Rocky Mountaineer Goldleaf Service. Plush carriages offer 360-degree views of the unparalleled beauty of the Canadian Rockies. A large outdoor viewing platform, exclusive to GoldLeaf passengers, offers a wild and intimate view. On-board gourmet dining will see you treated to exceptional dishes created by award-winning chefs.

Read more: The Rocky Mountaineer, North America’s most luxurious train journey

Discover this on: Majesty of the Rockies

@belmondroyalscotsman

Or in Europe, travel to the United Kingdom on British Royale and extend your vacation with a journey aboard the Royal Scotsman. Immerse yourself in Edwardian elegance and the rugged beauty of the Scottish highlands, stopping en route at distilleries, castles and quaint villages. This iconic train combines 5-star service, Mother Nature’s beauty and comforts of a country house, with the best of Scottish gastronomy and traditional live entertainment.

Discover this on: British Royale

You may enjoy reading: 7 of the world’s most luxurious train journeys

Discover a new culture through gastronomy

Whatever your nationality, age or religion, food brings family together. Sharing a meal is sharing precious time, for conversation, reflection, stories and laughter. Nourishing for the body and the soul, exploring a country through its cuisine is also the perfect way for families with grown-up children to connect with new cultures as you discover new aromas, tastes, languages and customs.

On Cambodia & Vietnam in Style you’re invited to step into a mystical world of rainforests, beaches, mountains and bustling cities, packed with ancient temples and friendly locals. A culinary journey second to none, dine at Saigon’s splendid rooftop restaurants in and enjoy a meal and private concert at the home of celebrated painter and singer, Camille Huyen. Feast on pho and crab spring rolls as you join a local foodie to explore the street food culture of Hanoi and roll up your sleeves for a hands-on cooking class with a local chef.

Discover this on: Cambodia & Vietnam in Style

Read more: Fine dining, dressed down: the cuisine of Vietnam and Cambodia

Discover the delights of Majestic Japan from the stunning Oirase Gorge to the metropolis of Tokyo. A country known for its hospitality, innovation and tradition, unwrap its history as you savor tempura, sushi, kyo-Kaisekiand teppanyaki cuisine. Dine on Mount Fuji, visit a traditional teahouse, meet a sake brew master and learn how to make sushi with a master chef.

Discover this on: Majestic Japan

Read more: A journey of a lifetime: unearthing Majestic Japan, with Luxury Gold

Stand in awe of iconic monuments

The world’s iconic monuments. Everyone has these on their bucket list and what better way to see them than with family. From the Pyramids of Egypt to the Colosseum of Rome, they do not disappoint.

Instantly recognizable as an iconic symbol of Australia’s landscapes and heritage, Uluru tops many a traveler’s bucket list. On Inspiring Australia we invite you to witness this powerful place at her best. Enjoy multi-colored sunsets, a dawn performance of renowned artist Bruce Munro’s Field of Light art installation of colored glass spheres and dine to the sounds of the digeridoo.  A luxurious stay at the five-star Sails in the Desert, Ayers Rock Resort, a beautiful oasis amid the raw beauty of the Outback, will make your family holiday complete.

Discover this on: Inspiring Australia

Read more: The irresistible lure of Uluru, Australia’s spiritual hub

One of the most sought-after destinations on earth, Machu Picchu in Peru stands 2,430 m above sea-level in the middle of a lush tropical mountain forest. Join us on Treasures of the Incas and access the enigmatic Lost City of the Incas by train. First-class seats and panoramic windows make for sublime views en route. Arrive before the day trippers and join your expert guide for a fascinating and unforgettable journey back in time.

Discover this on: Treasures of the Incas

Read more: Step inside Peru’s blissful Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Explore spectacular cities

If your family loves to be in the heart of the action, then the world’s greatest cities might be top of your list for a vacation together. From busy markets, museums and galleries to eclectic festivals and delicious restaurants, cities are the hub of a country’s culture and full of endless surprises.

In the vibrant American South, the cities of Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans take center stage on our Southern Grace tour. An idyllic combination of music, culture and cuisine, each day in these world-famous cities is bookended with delicious dining and magnificent hotels.

Perfect for families with grown-up children, get together to participate in a rare recording session at Nashville’s famous Studio B. Join a singer/songwriter to learn the stories behind the hits before getting out your dancing shoes for a lively performance at the Grand Ole Opry. Visit Graceland, the home of The King of Rock n Roll in Memphis and take a private cooking class in New Orleans.

Read more: Why New Orleans’ Ritz Carlton Hotel is a cut above the rest

Discover this on: Southern Grace

Take a timeless journey on Ultimate Italy and explore iconic cities that have amazed visitors for generations. Cruise canals and explore Doges Palace after hours in Venice. Follow in the footsteps of gladiators at Rome’s mighty colosseum. Lose yourself amongst the masterpieces and frescos of the Vatican Museums. See Michelangelo’s David in Florence, feast on local delicacies and join a hunt for delicious truffles.

And, as a brief respite from the hustle and bustle, a sojourn to the stunning Isle of Capri will see you savoring Michelin-starred dining and embracing the celebrity lifestyle.

Discover this on: Ultimate Italy

Read more: Making it personal: How Travel Concierge Anna elevates your Italy experience

Heed the call of the great outdoors and get back to nature at these luxurious retreats, immersed in the world’s most beautiful landscapes. From remote chalets in New Zealand’s Fiordland and lavish suites in Kruger National Park to a Nile River cruise and a garden oasis in Vietnam, these are some of the finest nature retreats you can experience with Luxury Gold. 

Milford Sound Lodge, Fiordland, New Zealand

@milfordsoundlodge

Take a journey to New Zealand’s extraordinary Fiordland National Park and discover the ultimate luxury nature retreat at Milford Sound Lodge. Set on the edge of the iconic Milford Sound and Milford Track, the lodge is surrounded by the rushing Cleddau River, ancient beech tree forest, waterfalls and towering mountains.

With few other buildings (or people) around, this is a rare opportunity to stay in the UNESCO-listed Fiordland. The beautiful, secluded chalets are right on the river and forest, with rushing waterfalls just steps away. With floor-to-ceiling windows and wide open decks to soak it all in, this nature retreat is an unparalleled experience.

Read more: The ultimate nature retreat: welcome to Milford Sound Lodge 

Experience it: The Long White Cloud

River Tosca, Nile River, Egypt

If you’re looking to reconnect with the great outdoors on the water, you’ll be drawn to Egypt’s Nile River. When you cruise the Nile with Luxury Gold, you’ll spend your nights onboard the deluxe River Tosca ship. This is where old-world elegance melds with modern luxuries, with stylish and spacious suites complemented by marble bathrooms. You’ll have a front-row seat to the Nile River as you relax on the sun deck in the pool or under shaded cabanas, watching the ever-changing scenery float by.

Experience it: Elegance of Egypt

The Fairmont Resorts, Banff National Park, Canada

@fairmontcll

Two of the most coveted nature retreats in the world are the Fairmont Château Lake Louise and Fairmont Banff Springs, both located in the UNESCO-listed Banff National Park. 

Fairmont Château Lake Louise is set on the shores of the dazzling Lake Louise. Enveloped by the most breathtaking scenery, you’ll feel completely immersed in the soaring mountains and glaciers at this historic hotel. This magnificent castle offers an exceptional experience, and you’ll have opportunities to spot local wildlife, enjoy a lakeside stroll with an award-winning naturalist, or ride a gondola above Lake Louise. 

@fairmontbanff

Less than an hour away, you’ll find the equally spectacular Fairmont Banff Springs. Known as Canada’s “Castle in the Rockies”, Fairmont Banff Springs sits at the base of Rundle Mountain. It’s ringed by lush forest and the turquoise Spray River. You’ll spend your days exploring the majesty of the Canadian Rockies, then enjoy an exquisite dinner of local specialities in the evening. 

Experience both resorts: Majesty of the Rockies

Lions Sands Tinga Lodge, Kruger National Park, South Africa  

@lionsandsgamereserve

There are few better places to reconnect with the great outdoors than at the luxurious Lions Sands Tinga Lodge. Set on the banks of the Sabie River in Kruger National Park, you can spot elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos and rhinos, all from your private deck and plunge pool in your grand suite. After spending your days on game drives, you can unwind in the afternoon at the lodge’s infinity pool, bar lounge, library or Africology Spa. As night falls, dine on South African cuisine by candlelight on the terrace, then drift off to the sounds of wild animals in the distance. 

Experience it: Spectacular South Africa

Pilgrimage Village, Hue, Vietnam

@pilgrimagevillageresort

Dreaming of escaping to the quiet countryside? Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa is your oasis in Hue. Surrounded by lush, peaceful gardens, Pilgrimage Village is the perfect place to relax and unwind in nature. Wander under leafy trees and cycle past emerald rice fields. Soak in the steam bath or take part in meditation, yoga and tai chi classes in the gardens.

You can also venture to the nearby traditional garden houses of Phu Mong village and be serenaded by local musicians at the Ben Xuan Garden House Theatre. With Luxury Gold, you’ll enjoy a VIP visit to the Imperial Citadel and the royal tomb of Minh Mang. You’ll also meet the headmaster of the Vietnamese Royal Martial Arts Academy or a collector in his private museum, so you can combine the best of culture in the great outdoors on your getaway.

Experience it: Inspiring Indochina

Sails in the Desert, Uluru, Australia

@exploreuluru

Set in Australia’s Red Centre on Uluru doorstep, the five-star Sails in the Desert is an immersive nature retreat. While Uluru and the Kata Tjuṯa domes are the stars, this impressive resort amplifies the natural wonders. You’ll go on guided walks around Uluru and through whistling Walpa Gorge. Then enjoy sparkling wine and appetizers as you witness the enchanting sunset over Uluru. At sunrise, you’ll watch Bruce Munro’s Field of Light art installation of coloured glass spheres illuminate Uluru. From hearing the ancient stories of the Anangu people, the traditional guardians of the land, to experiencing the award-winning Sounds of Silence dinner, this is a mesmerising retreat in the Australian Outback.

Experience it: Inspiring Australia

Nahargarh Ranthambhore, Ranthambore National Park, India

@thealsisarnahargarh

Nestled in the foothills of Aravalli Range, right on the edge of Ranthambore National Park, this magnificent palace hotel offers a truly special experience in the great outdoors. Home to around 80 protected Bengal tigers, Ranthambore is one of the best places to see tigers in the wild.

You’ll explore the former royal hunting grounds of the Maharajahs of Jaipur with a Local Expert. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive tigers on game drives, and also watch out for other animals like leopards and sloth bears. You’ll also see the ancient royal ruins dotted around the park from traditional Chhatri dome-shaped pavilions to a 1,000-year-old fort. In the evening, you’ll return to the elegant Nahargarh Ranthambhore to relax in the pool and superb restaurant. 

Experience it: Essence of India

Rising 1,140 feet above the surrounding flat plain, Uluru is an extraordinary sight. As the world’s largest rock monolith, Uluru is taller than the Eiffel Tower and the Chrysler Building.  The base alone spans a massive 5.8 miles in circumference. Set in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Uluru began forming around 550 million years ago. This iconic landmark is fondly known as the heart of Australia’s Red Centre in the Northern Territory – but it’s much more than an enormous rock. Uluru is a sacred landscape for the traditional owners of Uluru-Kata Tjuta, the Anangu Aboriginal people, one of the oldest continuous cultures in the world. In honour of World Heritage Day, we look at the cultural and spiritual significance of Uluru, Australia, and share how you can experience the wonder of Uluru on our Inspiring Australia tour. 

@exploreuluru

The traditional guardians of Uluru

When you set eyes on the red sandstone monolith, you’ll marvel at the sheer size and impact of Uluru, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But if you observe Uluru transforming throughout the day in different shades of red, orange and violet, you’ll know you’re witnessing something truly remarkable.

Towering above the red desert plain, over 280 miles from the nearest large town (Alice Springs), the remoteness of the landscape lends itself to the powerful atmosphere that Uluru evokes. But this is far from untrammelled land. The Anangu people have been the guardians and traditional owners of Uluru-Kata Tjuta for over 60,000 years. Anangu is the name used by Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara Aboriginal people to refer to themselves. Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara are the two main languages spoken in Uluru-Kata Tjuta.

Read more: Acclaimed Sydney restaurant Bennelong and its love affair with Australian food

@exploreuluru

The spiritual significance of Uluru 

Uluru and the nearby domes of Kata Tjuta are places of great cultural and spiritual significance to the Anangu people. The Anangu believe Uluru was created as a sacred site by their ancestral beings at the beginning of time. The traditional story says that each region of Uluru was formed by around 10 different ancestral beings. Uluru has several caves and fissures, also formed by ancestral beings, and the Anangu people still hold ceremonies in these caves. There is incredible physical evidence of this culture throughout the landscape, including rock art and remnants of ancient ceremonies and rituals.

@exploreuluru

An unbreakable spiritual connection

For the Anangu people, Uluru and the nearby Kata Tjuta domes aren’t just rocks. They are living cultural landscapes and resting places for ancient spirits. The Anangu people live by Tjukurpa, the foundation and philosophy linking the people to their ancestors and the world. It governs everything from their customs and laws to mapping important places to find water and food. It also expresses their relationship between people, places, animals and the land. Tjukurpa is conveyed in stories, rituals, song lines, art and the landscape, and Uluru is an important part of this.

This spiritual connection to Uluru and the land remains strong today. The Anangu people continue to fulfil their duty to care for the earth and pass on their traditions and beliefs. Since the European discovery of Uluru, this sacred site has been horrifically mistreated, from the land being stolen to people climbing the rock face of Uluru despite the spiritual violation. In 2019, people were finally banned from climbing Uluru and the trail to the top was permanently closed. The Anangu people will continue to fight to protect their unique and ancient culture, history, and way of life.

Read more: Ayers Rock Resort: where to stay in Australia for a truly memorable experience

@exploreuluru

Remarkable learning experiences

When you visit Uluru in Australia, you’ll see how this special region is an educational beacon and hub of information, with physical links to an ancient world. There’s a living history within the Anangu people who live much the same way they did thousands of years ago.

You’ll have the chance to witness some of these traditions on our Inspiring Australia tour. You’ll stay right on the edge of Uluru at the five-star Sails in the Desert and hear some of the ancient stories of the Anangu people. Experience the wonders of Uluru at sunset when you listen to the didgeridoo during the award-winning Sounds of Silence dinner. You’ll take guided walks through Uluru-Kata Tjuṯa National Park and learn about the importance of the land. Then see Uluru in a new light at sunrise when you witness Bruce Munro’s enchanting Field of Light art installation. The coloured glass spheres light up the desert in a magical experience.

You can experience the wonders of Uluru-Kata Tjuṯa National Park on our Inspiring Australia luxury tour, which takes you from the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef to the Outback, Alice Springs and Sydney.

@exploreuluru