Can you name the best hotel that you’ve ever stayed at? Choosing the best luxury hotels isn’t simply about seeking the place with the highest thread count, where you can choose your own pillow or even what scent you breath in. Supreme comfort is a given, but on a Luxury Gold tour you’ll stay in elegant accommodation that offers more than every other 5-star hotel. Luxury means different things to different people, but it all comes down to the most superb service you’ve ever experienced. These places are exemplary; carefully chosen as not just a comforting place to rest your head, but a truly immersive experience on its own.

In every place that you stay on the exclusive tours offered by Luxury Gold, you’ll experience the destination in another way. From appreciating the Best of British when you stay at The Rubens at the Palace Hotel on the Queen’s doorstep in London, to having a front row seat at the Pyramids in Egypt from your exceptional hotel in Cairo.

UNUSUAL AND DISTINCTIVE ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

With Luxury Gold, our guest experience is at the heart of everything that we do. That’s at the forefront of our mind when organizing each place you stay. We want to ensure you feel truly welcome while providing you with extra special encounters and a VIP experience wherever you are.

Our accommodation doesn’t just include the most luxurious 5-star hotels either. One night you will find yourself spending the night on the Venice Simplon Orient Express, while another you may rest up on a historic Irish estate that stretches along the edge of a medieval city.

Luxury Gold has a special connection with Red Carnation Hotels, as it is owned by our co-founder, Beatrice Tollman. These exceptional hotels are found in some of the most incredible destinations on earth and are set apart by their wonderful character and outstanding levels of service. If there is a Red Carnation Hotel in a location we travel to, then we arrange for our guests to stay there and enjoy the attention to detail rarely found at other properties.

Read on to discover more about some of the incredible Hotel and Spa properties that have been carefully selected for Luxury Gold guests.

ASHFORD CASTLE, COUNTY MAYO, IRELAND

Set amid 350 acres of pristine County Mayo countryside, Ashford Castle is a 12th century property that has recently undergone an extensive renovation. Luxury Gold guests spend two nights in this sumptuous castle on the Ultimate Ireland tour.

Enter through the imposing gates where a lone piper awaits to escort you across the drawbridge. His haunting tune provides echoes of the historic battles that were fought across this land.

Every room at Ashford Castle is individually designed, offering you a stand-alone experience even from your fellow guests. Sumptuous fabrics adorn the room with historic furniture fitted seamlessly with the more modern features that enhance your stay.

There’s no need to leave the estate, with a range of activities from horse-riding to archery to partake in. Adventurous guests can try our zipline through our woods, or take in a film at our private cinema to wind down after a busy day.

Ashford Castle is former home of the Guinness family and is Ireland’s first (and only) Forbes Five Star Hotel. Guests have the opportunity to dine like royalty over their Celebration Dinner in the King V dining room, that was built especially for the King’s visit to the estate in 1905. The food is also superlative, with seasonal ingredients foraged from the estate and sourced locally.

12 APOSTLES HOTEL AND SPA, CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

Credit: Booking.com

Imagine waking up in a UNESCO Cape Floral Region with spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean. This is just one of the reasons that 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa has been carefully selected for a Luxury Gold tour. Whether you prefer looking out on the dramatic Table Mountain, rising in the distance, or the soothing sea vistas, all 70 rooms and suites let you admire the scene.

Before you take off into safari territory on the Spectacular South Africa tour, you will explore Cape Town from this heavenly base for five days. The property is framed by Table Mountain National Park rising behind it, yet only a short drive to Cape Town to enjoy its many wonders.

Here, individual décor is the norm, inspired by the local African environment and a complement to the scenery. Warm, thoughtful service is provided by all the team. They create ‘tiny noticeable touches’ that really elevate their guest care, making your stay perfect in every possible way.

Dining at 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa is an indulgent treat, with some of Cape Town’s best restaurants on site. From sushi with your sundowners at the Leopard Bar to the signature Cape cuisine dishes served at Azure restaurant, guests will leave fully satisfied after memorable meals with staggering views.

LEELA PALACE, UDAIPUR, INDIA

Leela Palace Udaipur is a stunning hotel that sits on banks of Lake Pichola. Designed by famed architect Bill Bensley, the palace boasts Rajasthani crafts throughout and provides a royal experience for guests.

Luxury Gold guests arrive at this exceptional venue on day 11 of their Imperial Rajasthan tour, where you are welcomed with live music and a shower of rose petals.  The rooms evoke the grandeur of the Mewars, the oldest serving dynasty in the world. Admire the panoramas of Lake Pichola from graceful rooms, adorned with traditional artwork and motifs from the region.

Your stay at Leela Palace will be immersed in opulence from beginning to end. Discover cultural performances in the courtyard and enjoy romantic boat rides on the lake. Delve into the local culinary fare presented with great flair during your Celebration Dinner on the last night of your tour.

Luxury spa journeys are another highlight of Leela Palace. When you finish exploring the fascinating City Palace and bazaars of Udaipur, perhaps relax with an Indian head massage or some reflexology in the ESPA here.

VERMEJO PARK RANCH, NEW MEXICO, USA

When you truly want to lose yourself in nature, there’s nowhere on earth like Vermejo Park Ranch. Owned by founder of CNN turned environmentalist, Ted Turner, this private national park extends across 590,000 acres of extraordinary terrain.

Staying on Vermejo Park Ranch is wonderfully unique in the sense that every need is catered for, but you’re made to feel totally at home. Very few luxury tours are invited here, but when you choose the Resorts and Ranches of Colorado and New Mexico with Luxury Gold, you spend three nights soaking up the splendour of this precious reserve.

Step into refined accommodation that is a rich blend of Southwestern influences with the grandeur of the early 20th century. Every detail has been considered here with sumptuous furnishings and the finest fabrics to envelope you as you sleep.

Aside from the many activities offered at the ranch, from horse riding to fishing in one of the 19 lakes onsite, guests can simply explore and see the many elk, deer and bison that roam the reserve. Cocktail hour is a specialty at Casa Grande, where you can mingle with the guests and staff, hearing stories of the stars who have stayed here through the years.

REGENT PORTO MONTENEGRO, TIVAT, MONTENEGRO

Credit: Booking.com

Guests on the Luxury Gold tour Captivating Croatia and Montenegro will check into the most exclusive hotel in the country, Regent Porto Montenegro, on Day Three of their journey. Situated on the largest natural harbor on the eastern Mediterranean, Boka Bay, this award-winning hotel is designed to reflect Italian Palazzo style and is perfect for glamorous guests.

Nautical sophistication enhances each room and suite here. Guests can stretch their legs in spacious rooms that offer fabulous vistas of the lush mountains that rise behind the hotel or the elegant marina in front.

The staff give everyone a personal welcome, to make you feel at home from the moment you arrive. It is this personal service that has garnered awards from Conde Nast Traveler, the World Luxury Hotel Awards and Trip Advisor.

Dining is also a gourmand’s pleasure at Regent Porto Montenegro. From tasty bites in the sleek Riviera-style Pool Bar to the fine Adriatic cuisine served in the stylish Murano restaurant, each meal is packed with fresh local ingredients from the bountiful landscape around.

The Regent Spa has also collected honors, so it’s worth spending some time in the Finnish sauna or Turkish hammam during your stay. Experience the finest treatments that draw on spa wisdom from around the globe to give you a soothing morning or afternoon escape.

XIGERA SAFARI LODGE, OKAVANGO DELTA, BOTSWANA

Deep in the Okavango Delta, you’ll find a hotel and spa quite unlike anything else in the region. This lodge blends into the papyrus wetlands that surround it, overhung by a verdant canopy and spread across two islands.

The Xigera Safari Lodge is not just remarkable for its location in nature, or views across the floodplains. It is a triumph of sustainability, running on 95% solar power, while celebrating the art, culture and creativity of Africa.

Step into one of the twelve beautifully appointed suites to discover your holiday retreat. Each one has a distinctive aesthetic, influenced by the flora and fauna of the environment. Indigenous elements can be found throughout, from hand carved furniture to custom made bedspreads and magnificent works of African art.

Wildlife encounters are part of the appeal of this safari lodge. Each suite has its own compendium of birds and mammals that inhabit the area, and guests can record their own sightings. Spot the local pride of lions, the resident leopards, giraffes and elephants who call Xigera home.

The team at Xigera Lodge are knowledgeable, hospitable and full of joy. They enrich each moment and are always on hand if a guest needs advice or help during their stay. Xigera Safari Lodge is a top venue in the Red Carnation hotel collection and as such, the service is simply outstanding.

LION SANDS GAME RESERVE, KRUGER NATIONAL PARK, SOUTH AFRICA

Stay in the heart of the African bush when you embark on safari with Luxury Gold. Day Six of the Spectacular South Africa tour sees you arrive at the Lion Sands Game Reserve, on the bank of the Sabie River.

Marvel at the animals feeding by the river from your private retreat, set above the water with interconnecting wooden walkways. Understated elegance is infused with natural features to reflect the splendor of the surroundings.

King-sized beds carefully draped with giant mosquito nets, al fresco showers to wake up with nature and expansive decks allow you total privacy while enjoying all that the reserve has to offer.

Sip on a fine South African wine while hearing stories around the fire. Savour a Celebration Dinner beneath the stars after seeking out the Big Five on your guided game drives. Impeccable service, enchanting suites and breath taking encounters with wildlife will all make your stay at Lion Sands one of the most memorable you’ve ever had.

During the seemingly endless winter days, our minds turn to travel more than ever now, as many of us have had our plans restricted in the past year. There is more than a beam of light for the travel industry this year and while certain adjustments need to be made, we can take you on some exclusive tours of the most colorful cities in the world, simply from your armchair.

Whether you need inspiration for your next city break or want to know more about our luxurious tours that let you truly experience these destinations, dive into our list and let your imagination journey through the technicolor barrios of Buenos Aires, Argentina to the soothing cerulean shades of Jodhpur, India.

Venice, Italy

Whilst visiting one of the most romantic cities in the world, cruise with Luxury Gold to the island of Burano, one of the six neighborhoods’ that make up Venice. The pretty multi-colored houses that line the canals will catch your eye as you approach and the area is very relaxing to stroll around.

The tradition of painting houses in different colors in Burano actually stems from a long line of fishermen who populate the community. When returning from a day’s fishing, the fishermen often found it difficult to pinpoint their home from another in deep fog, so they began painting their homes in different, bright colors to distinguish them. Now residents follow governmental guidelines when painting their homes so it remains as picturesque as ever.

Burano is also known for its homemade lace, and many of the colored buildings now house lace shops, with different stitches representing different women. Groups of women sit together to make each piece, continuing a centuries-long tradition of working together and keeping each other company on the long days their husbands were away fishing. This sense of support infuses the atmosphere of Burano, adding to the quaint feeling of the place.

Warsaw, Poland

The capital city of Poland is a striking place to visit, and not just for the abundance of historical monuments there. The architecture of the city tells its own story, rising from the ruins of past battles, with the triumphant pink-hued Barbican, rebuilt with bricks from old buildings to the classic Soviet Palace of Culture and Science, the juxtaposition of different styles is a marvel, even to the untrained eye. On one of Luxury Gold’s luxurious tours, Harmony of Central Europe, travelers can join a Local Expert to explore the charming Old Town, which has been lovingly restored and is now a hive of activity. See the red brick Royal Castle that has witnessed some of the most dramatic scenes in the country’s history, from demonstrations to uprisings, and even the setting for a rousing speech by former President Bill Clinton.

Wander through the bohemian Praga district to admire the modern artwork on its walls and see the contrast of older buildings brought to life by gigantic portraits, flags and even recreated battle scenes. Krakow is the Polish city people talk about most, but Warsaw is slowly becoming more appreciated by visitors to the country.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Perhaps there’s something about the winter weather in Europe that inspires the citizens to reach for the more vivid shades of a palette? No matter what time of year you visit Copenhagen, it feels like walking through a fairy tale. That would explain where one of the world’s most famous storytellers, Hans Christian Anderson, found his inspiration right here in his home town.

On the Timeless Scandinavia tour with Luxury Gold, it’s a joy to land in Copenhagen airport. This is one of the greenest cities in the world, where residents rate highly on the index of the world’s happiest people. Who could blame them? A stroll through the beautiful harbor area of Nyhavn, with its well-preserved 17th century houses lining the canal is a natural mood boost, and the chance to see the well-crafted wooden ships on the water. Grab a coffee in one of the pretty cafés and watch people go about their day the Danish way.

Copenhagen is not just picturesque by day. Step into the magical Tivoli Gardens by night to explore one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. You’ll find pagodas, dragon boats, places imagined from legend and a spectacular light show every evening.

Walt Disney visited the park several times, and it’s plain to see how he created Disneyland in its image, although it’s a far cry from any other theme park you’ve ever visited.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

The enchanting city of Buenos Aires comprises several vibrant neighborhoods, with each blink taking in its ambiance and creativity. From the elegance of Belgrano, that suddenly segues into the neon lights of Chinatown, every corner offers a surprise for the curious traveler. Luxury Gold guests get a chance to learn more about this fascinating metropolis from a Local Expert. Explore the upmarket Palermo that has a real buzz around its designer stores and trendy bars. You’ll also see the blooming rose gardens of the Bosques de Palermo. San Telmo is famous for its pastel buildings, many dating from a colonial era. The area is steeped in history and has a lively Sunday Fair that is popular with the youth of the city.

For even more culture, Recoleta is packed with museums and galleries so art-lovers will be spoiled for choice. Of course, it is also home to the famous cemetery, where the legendary Eva Peron rests. Little streets of tombs are framed by stunning sculptures and mausoleums, making it one of the top tourist attractions in the country.

La Boca is truly where the color of Buenos Aires comes to life. Every building resembles a Fauvist painting palette. Here, visitors will find tango studios alongside steakhouses, and many will notice the European flavor of the old port area, which is a great place to see work by local artists. Another highlight of the neighborhood is La Bombonera, where the famous football team, the Boca Juniors, play every week.

Valparaiso, Chile

In a continent that is alive with hues, Valparaiso stands out as one of the most colorful cities. It is a wonder to explore the hilly port city – it stands like an open-air gallery spread across miles. Exclusive tours such as Classic South America let guests explore the historic UNESCO protected streets and admire the natural Ampitheater setting.

The walls are decorated with the work of numerous local street artists, reflecting the culture and heritage of central Chile. Spot the murals that depict local life and the huge animal caricatures that joyfully play along the street walls. The government encourages local artists here, so they can often be seen at work with their spray cans, bringing their creativity to life on the side of a building.

The houses are all painted in pretty colors too – it seems that everyone is in on the arty vibe of the city. Many streets open on to fantastic Pacific Ocean views that further enhance the beauty of Valparaiso. Even the stone steps have poetry or song lyrics painted on them, making every footstep an adventure.

Ascend by funicular to the Museo a Cielo Abierto to find out more about local artists, or visit the barrio (neighborhood) of Cerro Concepcion to see mosaic stairs and grab coffee at a local café. La Sebastiana is another must-see, once home to the famed Chilean author and poet, Pablo Nerudo. Step out onto the terrace where he would watch the fireworks over the city on New Year’s Eve.

Jodhpur, India

Situated in the dusty desert of north Rajasthan is the Blue City of Jodhpur, aptly named for the shades of its buildings. There are many theories as to why most of the old part of the city is painted blue – some suggest that it deters termites, other that is cooling and some even say that it is a sacred color, associated with the god Shiva.

The most spectacular view of the city is from the Mehrangargh fort that sits 30 meters above the city on a perpendicular cliff. Luxury Gold guests can take in the panorama from the fort and discover more about imperial culture in the well-stocked museum of Jaswant Thada. The detail in the white marbled building is mesmerising. There’s also a merry tuk-tuk ride through the brightly-colored streets of Jodhpur to the Sadar market, where locals sell pashminas in every shade and rich fabrics.

Although some of the blue houses are certainly on the modest side, there are many interesting buildings to see in the city. Umaid Bhavan Palace, once home to the Maharaja, ruler of Jodhpur, is now a luxurious resort that was recently voted the world’s best hotel. The rose-pink turreted structure showcases multiple styles of architecture, but the result is truly impressive.

Cape Town, South Africa

It’s not just the turquoise of the ocean against golden sands, or the arresting lush landscape that spreads out from the city that makes Cape Town so colorful. It’s the culture, the food, the music that has sprung up from the grassroots here. As a Luxury Gold guest, you can explore this delightful city from the exquisite Twelve Apostles, situated right above the Atlantic Ocean. Travel to central Cape Town to discover the Bo Kaap neighborhood. The area is full of color and cheer that was borne out of hope and resilience. Dating back to the 1760s, the Dutch East India company housed many of their slaves from Malaysia and Indonesia in the houses and everything was painted white. It wasn’t until Nelson Mandela came to power that slaves had the power to buy their houses here, and painted them in bright colors to declare their freedom. The oldest building in the city is now home to the Bo Kaap museum, which is a great place to discover more about the history of Cape Town.

Bo Kaap has been inhabited by the same families for over a century, so many residents have deeply personal links with the history of the area. It is a fantastic place to explore and enjoy a typical Cape Malay meal, which is an aromatic fusion of Middle Eastern and Dutch cooking and taste the specialty cardamom tea. The area is an important heritage center for residents of Cape Town.

Dedicated to providing outstanding holidays and experiences, Luxury Gold and The Red Carnation Hotel Collection are both proud to be part of The Travel Corporation (TTC), a family-owned and family-run company for over 100 years. Being sister brands, we are always thrilled to share recent news and achievements, including the opening of their new Xigera Safari Lodge in Botswana 

Xigera is Red Carnation Hotels’ love letter to the magic of the African bush. Every aspect is handcrafted to beguile guests’ senses and stir their souls – from the evocative interiors to one-of-a-kind encounters.

Transformed by Africa’s life-enhancing beauty, it is a story of remarkable renewal. Of rebirth and family legacy, and of the pioneering spirit that drives us to seek out Africa’s wild spaces. The same spirit that inspired this remarkable reimagining, perhaps a complete reinvention, of an Okavango Delta safari.

This is Xigera (pronounced ‘kee-jera’), named for the Pied Kingfisher that makes its home amid the watery channels of Botswana’s Moremi Game Reserve. The culmination of a lifelong dream of the Tollman family, drawing on six decades of devotion to unparalleled luxury in service. The Tollman family has long had a profound love for Africa, and as the new custodians of Xigera Safari Lodge they are delighted to bring Red Carnation’s generous hospitality, personal service and exceptional design aesthetic to Botswana for the first time

But Xigera is equally a line in the sand. A raising of the bar. A bold statement in the realm of luxury safaris, and an Okavango Delta safari experience like no other.

Xigera Safari Lodge offers just 12 beautiful suites and an exceptional Baobab Treehouse, each resting effortlessly in this wild landscape. Amid this remarkable setting, Xigera’s design aesthetic is wholeheartedly dedicated to celebrating African art, design and creativity. Each piece has been handcrafted and inspired by the incredible natural surroundings; every experience can be tailor made to guests’ wishes… an entirely new imagining of the African bush.

Xigera Baobab

The Okavango Delta provides the palette of inspiration for the interiors of Xigera Safari Lodge, with even the smallest details showing a deep connection to the natural world beyond the lodge. Meticulously created and crafted, in every sense the décor pays homage to both the human and natural heritage of this remarkable corner of Africa. Conceptualised by Toni Tollman, Philip Fourie and Anton de Kock – in collaboration with award-winning South African gallery Southern Guild – the Xigera Design Collection is breathtaking in both its scope and bold vision.

Xigera Baobab Suite

Situated in the western reaches of Botswana’s iconic Moremi Game Reserve, gazing out on the seasonal floodplains of the Okavango Delta, Xigera’s unique location offers unrivalled access to extraordinary safari experiences. From bush breakfasts, wild picnics and ‘feet in the water’ sundowners to thrilling motorboat safaris, bespoke wilderness experiences and sunrise yoga, Xigera showcases the magic and mystery of this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Xigera Bush Breakfast

Conservation and sustainability are at the heart of Xigera, powering the lodge almost entirely through solar energy and eliminating single-use plastics. Caring for the environment is a priority in every aspect, but the lodge also pours enormous effort into partnering with local communities, providing both empowerment and employment.