With its rich mystical history and breathtaking landscapes, Latin America is a stunning destination. Discover this beautiful continent on our Treasures of the Incas and Classic South America luxury guided tours, or combine the two for the ultimate Latin American voyage, the 23-Day Grand South America. As a taster of what’s in store, here are 7 Latin America experiences guaranteed to stir your soul. 

An intimate history of Peru  

Enjoy an exclusive invitation from Dr. Francisco Diez-Canseco Távara, distinguished politician and philanthropist, to step into his home and share in tales of his family’s history. Travel to Peru on a Luxury Gold Chairman’s Collection departure and enjoy a private lunch at his charming villa in Lima.   

As you dine, learn all about Dr. Canseco’s family’s long heritage in Peru, which includes former presidents, politicians and Spanish nobility. Hear also about his farming activities in the highland of Peru, supporting Indigenous farmers. Come away with a deep and personal insight into the history of this fascinating country, one of the great Latin America experiences that will certainly stir your soul. 

 Read more: Exclusive encounters – The Chairman’s Collection  

A once-in-a-lifetime journey to Machu Picchu 

Standing 2,430 m above sea-level, in the middle of a lush tropical mountain forest, lies Machu Picchu. one of the most sought-after destinations on earth. The enigmatic Lost City of the Incas was rediscovered by American historian Hiram Bingham in 1911 after being forgotten for centuries. Now a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, much of its history and purpose of still remains a mystery even to historians. This makes a visit to Machu Picchu one of the most mystical and intriguing Latin America experiences a traveler can enjoy.  

Some of the most famous sites of this sprawling ancient citadel are the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Three Windows, Temple of the Condor, the Sun Gate and the Intihuatana rock, believed to be an ancient sun clock. Easily accessed by train, your first-class seats and panoramic windows make for sublime views en route to Machu Picchu village. Arrive before the day trippers and join your expert guide for an exclusive and fascinating journey back in time. 

Help keep traditional textiles alive in Cusco 

The colorful traditional textiles of Peru and Latin America have lured visitors for centuries. Their origins stretch back thousands of years, and in the bustling community of Cusco, Nilda Callañaupa Alvarez is dedicated to preserving this ancient craft. Each fabric possesses intricate techniques and extraordinarily rich colors and patterns, with textiles considered rare and special enough for many museums to hold fragments of surviving archaeological examples.  

Join a Luxury Gold MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and be fortunate to meet Nilda, Quechua scholar and director of the Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco, and learn about her mission to preserve traditional weaving techniques. Established in 1996, the Center has been appraising textile techniques, educating the youth and working with university programs for two decades. Through this VIP experience, relish the joy of Latin America travel as you get deep into the history of your destination. 

Read more: Keeping the old ways alive: Center for traditional tiles in Cusco   

Admire exotic birds at Iguazu falls 

Embrace a world of color, sound and beauty at Parque das Aves, the only institution in the world focused on the conservation of the beautiful and exuberant birds of the Atlantic Rainforest. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, step into the forest and walk among the birds, and discover the fascinating work at the heart of this important park. Providing shelter for over a thousand birds, butterflies and reptiles from across South America, learn how they are helping reverse the conservation crisis facing these birds and the Atlantic rainforest.  

A VIP invitation on Lake Titicaca 

Set on the border of Peru and Bolivia, the sublime Lake Titicaca is the world’s highest navigable body of water, at 3’812m above sea level. Over forty islands are sprinkled throughout Lake Titicaca, hosting a mix of rolling hills, various populations and ancient ruins waiting to be explored. 

Receive a VIP invitation for an unforgettable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you meet a local family on Amantani Island, one of the largest islands on Lake Titicaca. Machines are not used on Amantani, so you’ll enjoy a unique insight into how this culture maintains the traditions of their ancestors. Join members of the community for a farm-to-table lunch of regional specialties, admire their textiles and handicrafts before exploring the terraced hillsides for superb views and ancient ruins. One of our authentic Latin America experiences that you’ll be talking about for evermore. 

Savour traditional flavors and meet a Shaman in the Sacred Valley 

Peruvian cuisine tempts with its rich aromas and fusion of local and international flavors. Dine the local way as you feast on a typical Peruvian meal, a caja china lunch of fresh vegetables and slow-roasted meats, all cooked in a wooden box. A communal rite in the Sacred Valley, this his traditional way of slow cooking using hot stones and clay pots underground. Dating back to pre-historic times, it is a way to celebrate and show gratitude to Pachamama, the only goddess revered by the Indigenous people of the Andes. 

Take up one of our once-in-a-lifetime Latin America experiences and join a local Shaman. They will who perform this age-old ceremony in which an offering is made to Pachamama, representing Mother Earth, fertility, planting and harvesting. Of great importance, it is believed that Pachamama harvests the land and brings the rain so that farmers can grow their local crops.  

Read more: Experience a Pachamama ceremony in the Scared Valley 

Enjoy the magic of Tango in Buenos Aires 

The Tango evokes feelings of passion, drama and desire and is synonymous with Argentina. At Rojo Tango prepare to be enthralled and captivated by the finest tango dancers and musicians in Argentina. Savor a delicious meal and enjoy live music, solo singers and a breathtaking tango display, brimming with love, passion and glamour. 

First introduced in the 1880’s, Tango is included on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. The steps originated in the poor neighborhoods of the largest cities in Argentina and Uruguay, to become one of the most iconic dance styles in the world. An authentic night immersed in this intoxicating world is the ultimate way to enjoy one of the best Latin America experiences.  

An exclusive appointment with traditional art  

When traveling through Argentina, you can’t fail to notice the distinctive colorful, artistic drawings and lettering of fileteado, adorning all kinds of beloved objects: signs, taxis, lorries and even the old colectivos, Buenos Aires’s buses. So distinctive and culturally important, this art form is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. 

Enjoy an exclusive VIP experience with Luxury Gold and meet acclaimed artist Alfredo Genovese at his Fileteado workshop. When a student at the National Fine Arts School in 1984, Alfredo discovered that the fileteado was missing in the school’s curricula. He then made it his mission to study to become a fileteador. Learn direct from a master about this traditional artwork, its history and applications, a truly unique thing to do in Latin America. 

Discover these soul stirring experiences and more on our Treasures of the Incas, Classic South America and  Grand South America luxury guided tours. 

Often one of the most rewarding aspects of travel is the people we meet. These cherished interactions forge an unforgettable connection with a destination and create lasting memories. If you love meeting fascinating people, then look no further than our exclusive Chairman’s Collection.

Now imagine if you met a cosmonaut. What would you ask them about their journey into space? Or if you were to explore a palace with an Austrian Princess, what would you want to know about her heritage and her home?

Choose to travel with Luxury Gold on a Chairman’s Collection departure and connect with an eclectic and inspiring range of people, including legendary locals, European nobility and celebrated icons. Along with stunning destinations, VIP experiences, 5-star hotels and exceptional dining, here are the Chairman’s Collection delights that will await you on your luxury guided tour:

Discover the secrets of space with a cosmonaut in Russia

Remarkable Russia

For all of us travelers, no matter how adventurous, outer space remains a destination we are unlikely to ever see for ourselves. So, the next best thing is to meet someone who has been. Journey with us on a Chairman’s Collection departure and join retired cosmonaut Aleksander Laveykin for a personal guided tour of the Museum of Cosmonautics in Moscow. Aleksander spent 174 days in space so can answer all your burning questions about this most exclusive of exclusive destinations!

Meet an Austrian Princess

Harmony of Central Europe

When you step inside Artstetten Castle, for a private drinks reception with of Princess Anita von Hohenberg, you will be enchanted by both the setting and the company. A captivating storyteller, the Princess takes you back in time on a fascinating journey through her Habsburg heritage. A direct descendant of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, whose assassination in 1914 lead to the outbreak of World War I, Princess Anita has countless stories which she is delighted to share exclusively with Luxury Gold guests.

See India through the eyes of a renowned journalist and historian

Imperial Rajasthan, Grand India 

There really is no better way to discover the true heart of a destination than over a delicious dinner with a renowned local historian and journalist. Journey to India and in the vibrant capital Delhi you will meet with Rana Safvi and enjoy an intimate dinner at Sana-Di-Ge. Here Rana will teach you about her studies of Indian culture and how they relate to present day life in India. Dine on the finest seafood, share experiences and delve deep into the heart of this fascinating country.

Dine with Nobility in Italy

Ultimate Italy 

Imagine meandering through vineyards in the heart of Tuscany and learning about winemaking from a master. For 25 generations, the Mazzei family has been producing exceptional wines at the beautiful Castello di Fonterutoli, and the Marchese Mazzei himself will take you on a tour of his beloved ancestral home. Let your senses run wild over a lunch of Tuscan delights and taste some of the finest Chianti wines, the perfect way to toast this special occasion.

Discover the history of Peru

Treasures of the Incas, Grand South America

In Lima, meet with the fascinating Dr. Francisco Diez-Canseco Távara, as he invites you to lunch at his beautiful villa. As you dine you will learn all about his family’s long heritage in Peru, which includes former presidents of Peru and Spanish nobility. A tour of his ancestral home reveals many precious artifacts, including a framed telegram from President John F. Kennedy commending his ancestor as a “fighter for freedom, democracy and social justice.” We guarantee you will come away with a deep and personal insight into the history of this fascinating country, and with many warm memories of a once-in-a-lifetime encounter.

Explore exquisite gardens with an English Duchess

British Royale, Castles & Kingdoms

For lovers of horticulture and aristocracy, this meeting is simply unforgettable. Meet with Her Grace, the Duchess of Northumberland, as she personally welcomes you for a private tour of her beloved Alnwick Castle Gardens. Join the Head Gardener for a tour of the 12 acre site and explore the serpent garden and ornate fountains, and the world’s largest Tai Haku Cherry Orchard. Hear from The Duchess the fascinating and personal story of how she has restored this exquisite garden to its former 18th century glory over the last twenty years. You’ll also be able to indulge your taste buds over a delicious seasonal lunch and explore the magnificent 11th century castle, with the guidance of a local expert.

Meet music legends in Nashville, USA

Photo by Jon Tyson

Southern Grace, The Sumptuous Soul of America

What better way to discover Music City than alongside one of the stars who contributed to its legacy? Charlie McCoy, a Country Music Hall of Fame musician and Grammy-winning artist, has collaborated with famous musicians like Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan and Loretta Lynn.  Brenda Lee is the recipient of a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award for her contribution to music, being the top-charting solo female vocalist of the 1960s. Only when traveling on a Luxury Gold Chairman’s Collection departure will you meet one of these legendary locals during your time in Nashville – a story you will be telling over and over and again.

Learn all about Guinness in Ireland

Ultimate Ireland, Castles & Kingdoms

In delightful Dublin, learn all about the history of the Guinness brewing empire from its heir, Patrick Guinness himself. Patrick, who has spent his life researching his family, teaches you about Irish history, the origins of his ancestor Arthur Guinness’ brewing empire, and what it took to succeed. You can read more about this exclusive get-together in our recent Luxury Gold blog here.

For more information on The Chairman’s Collection:

At Luxury Gold we believe that every aspect of travel should be truly exceptional, and we hope you have been inspired to join us one day on a Chairman’s Collection departure. These elite experiences were personally curated by our late Chairman, Mr. Stanley Tollman, calling upon his extensive connections and inspired by his life in travel.

For more information on Luxury Gold’s Chairman’s Collection and how to select departures click here. 

For information on all our worldwide luxury guided tours click here.

April 1 is known as April Fools’ Day in many countries across the world, from Japan to Brazil. It’s simply a bit of fun to most but in many places certain traditions have emerged that define it for that country. If you like a practical joke, then perhaps you’d like to take a holiday to Odessa, Ukraine, where a whole festival is held around April Fools’ Day? Otherwise, simply soak up the quirky traditions that a variety of cultures perform on or around this date.

It’s difficult to pinpoint how or where April Fools’ Day began. There are several theories, many of which seem plausible and all pointing to Europe as the place where the day took on this funny meaning.

Origins in Poetry or Fishing? 

The earliest possible known reference to April 1 and playing a prank is in Geoffrey Chaucer’s “The Canterbury Tales”, written in the late 14th century. In the poem, a vain hen is tricked by a fox on “syn March bigan thritty dayes and two”. Readers took this as March 32, which would mean April 1. However, scholars have argued that Chaucer states the sun is “in the signe of Taurus” for the events, which could mean it was 32 days after March.

Over one hundred years later, French poet Eloy D’Amerval referred to “poisson d’avril” in 1508, the name which the French call their April Fools’ Day and some suggest that he may be recounting the events of the day.

Concrete accounts about April Fools’ Day emerged from France and Holland around this time, indicating that it may have been a northern European tradition that spread through the Celts. The fishing season began on April 1, but if a fisherman hadn’t brought back a great catch that day, sometimes they lied about how much they had caught. If they were found out, they were the fool.

While we may not know where it originates, it is certainly celebrated in many places now. It is a time that even the national media like to prank their citizens, so before calling “fake news”, remember it’s just a bit of fun!

For the jokers among you, we’ve collected some facts and fun pranks from around the world for this April Fools’ Day.

France 

Paris-France

The French shout “poisson d’avril” for April Fools’ Day. Children draw and make paper fish at school, and people stick them to each other’s backs for fun. If you stop by any patisserie, you’ll find fish-shaped treats to tempt you.

The French media love to catch the unsuspecting public out with their own April Fools’ jokes. In 1986, Le Parisien newspaper ran a story about moving the Eiffel Tower to the site of the new Disneyland Paris. They added credibility to the story by saying that a new Olympic stadium would be built on the site that the iron masterpiece had left.

Last year, when the coronavirus pandemic had much of Europe under full lockdown, there were many news articles about nature reclaiming the streets. So, the Twitter team for the town of Beaulieu-sur-Mer had a little fun by posting some giraffes who were apparently roaming the streets of their town.

Embrace the French joie-de-vivre onLuxury Gold’s French Vogue tour. 

Italy 

Venice- Italy

Despite sharing a 515-kilometer border, the Italians and French have distinct traditions belonging to each country. However, the Italian name for April Fools’ Day is similar – Pesce d’Aprile. In Italy, the most common prank is taping a paper fish to someone’s back, the same as in France. The Italians make a game of it, where everyone in the room is asked who has seen the Pesce d’Aprile? Of course it takes some time for the person wearing the fish to realise!

There are some superb examples of the Italian media playing tricks on the public on April 1. In 1961, Milan’s “La Notte” newspaper reported that all horses would need to be fitted for signalling and brake lights for riding through the streets and surrounding countryside. Some people brought their horses to mechanics with the instructions to do so.

Join in the jokes on the Ultimate Italy tour in April next year.

Sweden 

Sweden

If you’re visiting Sweden around April 1, then you should learn one phrase “April, april dun dumma sill, jag kan lura dig vart jag vill,”. It means “April, April, you silly herring, I can fool you anywhere I want to.” Whenever the person who has been pranked realizes the jokes on them, you must say this, or the April Fool is incomplete.

In 1965 an unknown prankster delivered leaflets throughout Stockholm claiming that the water company would soon switch off the water. Households were encouraged to fill up their bathtubs and as many containers as possible to store water. The culprit of this prank was never discovered. In 2004, a Swedish newspaper reported that mobile phone owners could access 3G simply by shaking their phones – that was probably funny to watch on the day.

England 

London Guards

The one thing to remember on April Fools’ Day in England is that you must play the joke before noon, or else the joke is on you! Presumably this is to catch people out before they even realise the date.

The British media commonly take part in pranking on April Fools’ Day. In 1957, the broadcaster BBC brought in a special report about a record spaghetti crop in Switzerland, even showing Swiss workers pulling noodles from the trees.

The cutest April Fools’ joke came from Cambridgeshire police force, who introduced their drug sniffer bunny Benni to the world via Twitter.

Scotland  

Just north of the border, the Scots used to have two days for playing jokes and pranks on friends and neighbors. April 1 was called Huntigowk day, where gowk meant foolish person. The gowk would be handed a sealed message to bring to someone, that read “Dinna laugh, dinna smile, hunt the gowk another mile.”  On receiving the message, the recipient would tell the gowk to deliver another sealed message to someone else, which read the same. This would continue until the gowk realised there was no message at all and he had been tricked. April 2 was a continuation of festivities called Tailie day, where tails would be pinned on people’s backs. The “kick me” that you stick to someone’s back can be traced back to Tailie day.

Discover the great wit of British noblemen on the British Royale tour.

India

April Fools’ Day has been around for centuries in India, as a result of British influence. It has always been known as a day for light hearted joking, where children were allowed play small pranks without getting into trouble for them. These included things like replacing sugar with salt for tea or cooking, causing frustration to their parents.

More recently, the younger generations now post pranks on social media, such as making up silly news stories or trying to catch out their friends with jokes. It is not as widely celebrated as elsewhere, but many children enjoy the fun of the day.

Ukraine, especially Odessa 

If your favorite day of the year is April Fools’ Day, then it’s worth putting a trip to Odessa to coincide with April 1 on your travel list.

Since 1973, Odessa has held the festival of Humorina around April Fools’ Day. A large parade takes place in the city center with comedians, musicians and clowns putting on performances. People dress in costume to join the parade and plentiful pranks are a given. It’s a joyous event organized by comic troupe, “Masks” who used to have a popular TV show in the country.

The city’s main buildings and monuments are often dressed in funny clothing to mark the event.

Russia 

Russian’s love to have fun on April Fools’ Day. People dream up ways to trick their friends and family, from calling up their neighbors to tell them that their car is being towed (and getting the instant reward of seeing them run outside to check) to swapping their co-worker’s desk family photo for a movie still, and wondering when they’ll notice.

Learn more Russian jokes on the Remarkable Russia tour in 2022. 

Greece 

Cyclades – Greece

The Greeks believe that there is good luck to be had from pranking people on April Fools’ Day. They believe that if you successfully play a trick on someone, that it will bring you good luck for the rest of the year. Farmers believe that a couple of good pranks will bring a bountiful harvest that year, so plenty of neighborly joking occurs on April 1.

Another belief in Greece is that any rain that falls on April 1 has healing properties, so it’s the ideal time to dance in the rain.

Brazil 

Rio de Janeiro – Brazil

In Brazil, April 1 is called “o dia das mentires”, meaning “day of lies”, so white lies are commonly told, with no harm meant. It has been celebrated in the country since 1828, when a satirical paper called A Mentira announced that the emperor and founder of Brazil, Don Pedro, had died. This could have been taken quite seriously, but Brazilians that believed it weren’t angry when they discovered the truth. They like to make light of things, because they believe it’s the solution to the ills of modern life. So, take anything you hear in Brazil on April 1 with a pinch of salt, in the spirit that it’s meant.

Embrace the belief of Brazilians on the Classic South America tour with Luxury Gold.