We’ve all been missing travel, the delight of exploring an exciting destination and soaking in its sights, sounds and aromas. The joy of meeting new people and learning about their culture has also been missed, but did you know there are many hidden benefits of travel beyond the obvious?

Maybe you have been traveling recently, or perhaps you are waiting for the right moment to explore the world once again, either way in case you’re undecided, we at Luxury Gold have put together some extra reasons for you to get back out on the road when you’re ready.

It is good for your heart

Travel is fun, that’s for sure, however were you aware that it is scientifically proven to be good for your heart? Studies have shown that taking vacations can reduce the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease, a real concern for many today. A study by Finnish researchers using data collected over a 40 year period showed that those who take their full holiday entitlement are significantly less likely to suffer a fatal heart attack. And a U.S Travel Association joint study concluded that women who vacation twice a year significantly reduced their risk of heart attack when compared to those who only traveled once every six years. The same study also concluded that men who don’t take vacations at least once a year increased their risk of heart disease by 30% and their risk of death by 20%.

Travel improves your mental health and reduces stress levels

Travel is good for your mental health in numerous ways. It promotes happiness and helps you to take your mind off stressful situations, leading to lower cortisol levels, making you feel calmer and more content. Stepping into an unfamiliar environment among new people enables you to learn and adapt building resilience, ultimately making you more flexible, patient and emotionally strong. Plus taking a break from the daily hustle and bustle is essential for your mind to relax, recharge and rejuvenate. According to one study, three days after taking a vacation, travelers report feeling less anxious, more rested and in a better mood, with these benefits lingering for weeks after the journey has ended.

La Alhambra complex, Granada, Andalusia, Spain

Of course, we know the complexities of travel can be somewhat stressful, which is why we at Luxury Gold take care of every detail so you can just concentrate on having an amazing experience. When you choose luxury guided travel with us you can relax knowing your Traveling Concierge and your Well-Being Director are at your service for the entire voyage. Combine this with the very best 5-Star hotels and exceptional dining, who wouldn’t feel content and refreshed!

Planning a vacation makes you happy

The anticipation of taking a vacation is far greater than the anticipation of acquiring a physical possession according to this study by Cornell University, thus the benefits of traveling begin well before the journey does. We suggest that you test this theory by taking a look at our Luxury Gold Chairman’s Collection and imagining yourself sipping tea with a Duchess on a luxury guided tour of Great Britain (British Royale, Castles & Kingdoms) or by reading more about our VIP Experiences and picturing a private, after-hours visit to Graceland (The Sumptuous Soul of America). Just to be completely sure maybe add some thoughts about spending the night swathed in five-star splendor at Ashford Castle in Ireland, one of our fabulous hand-picked hotels (Ultimate Ireland and Castles & Kingdoms). Truly exclusive travel. Feeling happier yet? We thought so!

Travel promotes physical activity

With busy lives and regular routines, it is easy to let physical activity slide, and we all know how important it is for us all. Traveling allows you to be active for many hours a day, without really noticing how much you are working your muscles as you get discover your destination, peruse through grand museums, explore quaint towns and stroll around beautiful gardens.

Vineyards at Dianella Winery in Tuscany

Luxury Gold tours offer three activity levels of guided tour – Leisurely, Balanced and Dynamic – so you can chose the pace you want to take. For example, if you’re looking for a more active pace you’ll love our Dynamic tours which can feature 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve some steep hills – take a look at Ultimate Italy, Majestic Japan or Inspiring Indochina for three inspiring examples.

Travel benefits People, the Planet and our Wildlife

The benefits of responsible travel and tourism to communities are huge. Your visits can help support ancient traditions, boost employment and equality, and exchange important information and opinions with the characters you meet about ways of living with our planet and its wildlife.

We certainly believe travel is a force for good and include MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences on every Luxury Gold tour, which not only enable you to leave a positive impact but are lots of fun and will even give you some new skills!

Marta, workshop director of the Giuditta Brozzetti Atelier

When in Umbria, Italy, you can meet the delightful Marta, Director of Laboratorio Giuditta Brozzetti, and delve into the colorful history of traditional Perugian textiles – try your hand at loom-weaving at one of the few remaining traditional frame hand weaving workshops in the country. Or get a unique insight into the slow food movement at Tracey’s Farmhouse in Northern Ireland – roll up your sleeves and get hands-on with an Irish soda bread-making lesson and indulge in a seasonal Farm-to-Table lunch in the most beautiful setting. Just two fabulous examples to whet your appetite.

Benefits of Luxury Gold

With all these extra benefits of travel, we thought it is a good moment to also mention some extra benefits of guided travel with Luxury Gold. As well as fantastic destinations, magnificent hotels, exceptional dining and VIP experiences, no matter where you journey with us, there’s never a crowd. Starting in 2022, you’ll always travel in a small group of about 20 guests on average on our luxury tours. With our small groups, you benefit from more personalized service from your Traveling Concierge and gain access to people and places that are closed to larger groups. You also benefit from having both a Traveling Concierge and a Well-Being Director to look after every detail of your vacation, and to ensure everything runs smoothly throughout leaving you free to enjoy every moment. So, the only thing you have to decide is where you want to go next?

For more information on Luxury Gold destinations click here. Tours for 2022 & 2023 are now available to book.

Although Europe is an attractive destination any time of year, there are parts of it that truly come alive in summer. From ideal temperatures to dine outdoors amid the vines to enjoying the gentle ocean breeze as you watch a local shuck oysters by the Adriatic, the allure of these destinations is magnified by the season.

The time is ripe to get out and explore again. If you’re keen to enjoy more sustainable travel, then a guided luxury tour that takes in a combination of the best loved sights with lesser-known gems may be ideal. Luxury Gold is currently offering fantastic savings on last minute getaways for Summer 2021 so why not plan your next adventure?

France

Paris, France

The leafy boulevards of Paris and olive groves of Provence both benefit from the balmy summer sun. Join Luxury Gold for the French Vogue Tour and appreciate the fine wines, food and historic chateaux throughout this romantic land.

A VIP visit to Château De Vaux-Le-Vicomte, the largest privately owned château in the country, occurs on day two of your French journey. 40 hectares of elegantly-designed gardens are a pleasure to explore on a summer’s day. Patterned flowerbeds, sculpted statues and well-placed fountains provide fantastic photo opportunities, while those with an eye for design can admire the baroque architecture of the grand house.

One of the most enjoyable summer excursions in Paris is a foodie tour. Your Local Expert leads you to a variety of patisseries, boulangeries, chocolatiers, cafés and tiny cheese shops that are only known to Parisiens, so you can revel in the culinary delights of the city. Meet passionate bakers and chefs who share their enthusiasm for the gourmet and understand why Paris is famous for its food.

France is full of local and farmers markets, particularly in the smaller towns, such as St Remy de Provence. Stroll through the colorful stalls, soaking up the enticing aromas and perhaps picking up a freshly baked snack or a handmade souvenir?

Follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh in Arles, where the artist painted over 200 masterpieces. See his inspiration in the sunbaked houses and pretty plant-lined streets. Van Gogh spent over 14 months in this Provencal city, seeking the warmth and color away from Paris. Your Local Expert will take you along the Rhône River and to the well-preserved Arles amphitheatre, once the site of great chariot spectacles.

When touring France in summer, one of the great highlights is catching a glimpse of the true blue hues of the Mediterranean. With Luxury Gold, you travel along the Moyenne Corniche road, where you can admire the sea from your seat.

Italy

Capri, Italy

Thoughts of Italy call to mind the rolling hills of Tuscany and sun-dappled piazzas with children enjoying gelato. On the Ultimate Italy tour with Luxury Gold, you can see both, as well as visiting some of the world’s most treasured landmarks.

Every corner in Rome unveils a piece of history, so it’s a wonderful city to wander in summer. After your visit to the Sistine Chapel before it opens to the public, take a walk through the peaceful Roman Forum, which offers incredible vistas across the city.

Pompeii is another historic site on your luxury travel adventure. Your Local Expert will conjure up images of life as it was in the ill-fated town, where you’ll see the remnants of bath houses and grand villas. Marvel at the extraordinary mosaics and architectural features that still remain almost 2,000 years on.

Arrive to the isle of Capri in style, with an open-top taxi taking you to your luxury hotel. Sip the local specialty, a lemon granita, as you admire a breathtaking sunset over the turquoise waters. Stroll to the landscaped gardens of Caesar Augustus where you can view the Faraglioni Rocks, jutting proudly from the sea.

Another fabulous summer activity to indulge in is foraging for truffles in Florence. An expert truffle dog guides you as you seek out this aromatic delicacy typical to the region. This fun activity is followed by dinner, where you’ll have the option of sampling another local treasure, Fiorentina, the mouthwatering grilled beefsteak dish.

Italy is famous for its cuisine. Uncover the secrets of its flavorful food in a Tuscan cooking class with a professional chef. Set in the former hunting lodge of the fabled Medici family, this class culminates in a splendid lunch with wine, dining on the creations cooked up during the morning.

Portugal

Douro Valley – Photo by Evan Verni on Unsplash

Famed for its golden sands and lively culture, Portugal offers a dazzling array of activities for travelers. Experience the history and charm of the country on Luxury Gold’s Spain & Portugal in Style, a 13-day luxury guided tour that brings you right to the heart of it.

On Day Eight of your tour, you cross the Alentejo Plateau, a region with undulating plains that is known for cork trees and olive groves. After reaching the capital city, Lisbon, you’ll be treated to a typical Portuguese dinner at a local Fado house, where the UNESCO-recognized singing is performed.

Spend a morning in the historic Belém Quarter, with its ancient fortress that sits on the riverbank. Visit the 500-year-old Jerónimos Monastery and cloisters to see its Manueline architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A drive along the coast takes you to the Atlantic coastal village of Cascais. This pretty cove is famous for its sandy beaches, so you can find a spot for sunbathing or take a dip in the sea. A number of good restaurants line the marina, so you can order some fresh seafood straight from the ocean, accompanied by Vinho Verde, the refreshing local wine.

You’ll also explore a local winery near Evora, a stunning city full of architectural splendor. Hear more about the wine making process and taste a selection of their finest tipple, surrounded by acres of vines.

If you’re staying on in Portugal, it’s definitely worth visiting Praia da Adraga in Sintra, just 12 kilometers from Lisbon. Here you’ll see one of the most spectacular sunsets from Azenhas do Mar, a restaurant that’s built right into the cliffs. It’s also a great place to catch some waves, if you’re an experienced surfer.

Switzerland

Lucerne, Switzerland

Although people think of alpine villages and snow sports in relation to Switzerland, it’s a delightful place to visit in summer. It offers an alternative to the hotspots along the Mediterranean, but it has plenty to offer the summer traveler.

The glamorous resort of St. Moritz gets the most days of sunshine per year in Switzerland. This makes it a wonderful place to take a swim in one of the pristine lakes nearby. Hiking is a popular pastime here, and when you take in the awe-inspiring panoramas of glaciers, mountains and meadows, you’ll understand why. There are plenty of easy hikes for visitors, including Fuorcla Surlej to Pontresina.

On the Luxury Gold tour, Majestic Switzerland, you can discover the local flora, fauna and wildlife with an experienced nature guide. Keep your eyes peeled for marmots, red deer and the golden eagle. The lush foliage and forestry of the country provides an idyll for many species.

After a vigorous day of hiking, you can unwind in the outdoor pool of the Mont Cervin Palace hotel, your home for two nights on the Luxury Gold tour. The beautiful lawn and pool have incredible views of the surrounding Zermatt mountains, while the spa also offers steam baths, a bio sauna and signature therapies to sooth your weary body.

Switzerland has some sublime lakes, two of which are visited on your Majestic Switzerland tour. On day six, you’ll check into the Hotel d’Angleterre, located right on the banks of Lake Geneva, the inspiration for the Early European Romantic movement. Two days later, after chocolate in Broc and cheese in Gruyères, you’ll reach lovely Lucerne. There, you’ll enjoy a romantic cruise on the lake, where you can admire the fairy tale buildings and abundant greenery beyond.

Croatia

Split, Croatia

Croatia is another European destination that has really raised its profile over the past decade. Its romantic port towns, towering fortresses and stunning national parks provide visitors with plenty to explore. It also basks in glorious sunshine, making it perfect for a summer vacation.

Embark on the Captivating Croatia and Montenegro tour with Luxury Gold to discover the sparkling seas and dramatic history of this stretch of land. On day two, you can enjoy a cruise to take in the Bay of Dubrovnik from a different perspective, admiring the city ramparts that are among the grandest in Europe.

Luxury Gold guests also enjoy exclusive tours on day six, with a boat ride to the floating oyster beds of Ston and a tour of Winery Frankovic. Savour a freshly shucked oyster straight from the sea with a chilled glass of wine. Then, on shore, see a traditional olive mill and walk amid the groves before a relaxing lunch.

The dazzling waters of Petrcane on the Dalmation coast are a great place to have an afternoon swim. Alternatively, guests can relax on the soft sands of the fishing village or stroll along the seafront as the sun splits the sky in pinks and orange.

The Sea Organ in Zadar is a fascinating architectural sound installation that looks like steps leading into the water, but creates music from the ocean as it laps the chambers beneath. No song is ever the same as the water moves around.

The country is just as stunning when you venture inland. Plitvice National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where 16 interconnected lakes create a mesmerising prospect for visitors. Luxury Gold guests enjoy a guided tour by boat and on foot with a Local Expert to explore the natural beauty of the area.

Book a European Summer Vacation with Luxury Gold

Luxury Gold includes VIP Experiences on its tours that engage you more deeply with the destination. These are made possible by the wealth of experience behind us and the connections fostered over 100 years of travel. From meeting master jewellers in Croatia to a private tour of Doge’s Palace in Venice, your summer vacation will be enhanced by these once-in-a-lifetime events.

Travelers can currently take advantage of 15% off many of Luxury Gold’s tours for summer 2021, so now’s the time to see more of Europe.

Are you ready to go on a journey with us as we explain what sets Luxury Gold apart? Well dust off your virtual passport, sit back and let us whet your wanderlust. No need for luggage on this trip just a comfortable seat and some imagination.

At Luxury Gold, it is our pleasure to make your next journey extraordinary. We invite you to indulge your passions on immersive, small group VIP guided vacations. With never more than 40 guests and an average of just 28 you will be able to enjoy the perfect blend of guided and independent exploration with like-minded individuals. With smaller groups you benefit from less queuing whilst embarking and disembarking and more personal service from your Traveling Concierge and Well-Being Director , all while retaining a comfortable physical distance.

At Luxury Gold we are very proud of our Traveling Concierges, expertly trained our Traveling Concierges are with you during your entire vacation. Master planners they deepen your connection to a destination. Imagine the best five-star concierge you’ve ever met, the person that makes dreams a reality. Fluent in the local language, with an extensive list of contacts to enrich your trip. Your Traveling Concierge is there from the beginning, understanding your preferences and desires before your journey, as well as on hand throughout, to personalize details that make your vacation unforgettable.

Our Traveling Concierges are able to build your dream vacation around the magnificent luxury hotels you’ll stay in with Luxury Gold. Our guests stay at acclaimed properties that offer outstanding levels of service in fantastic locations. We understand the importance of comfort and as such beautifully appointed rooms with everything you might need, luxurious touches to elevate your stay and staff who make hospitality personal, are all elements of each hotel we choose for your journey.

On our Castles and Kingdoms tour you’ll stay at the truly spectacular Ashford Castle. Whilst there your traveling concierge can book spa treatments or a guided tour of the gardens. Of course we also have VIP experiences where you’re able to enjoy inclusions Your Way, choose between a unique falconry experience or a guided historical tour of the Castle.

Discover other unique VIP Experiences that are only available to Luxury Gold guests. A memorable part of each journey, VIP Experiences bring you joy, laughter and genuine awe, transforming the standard sights into moments of gold.

VIP AFTER-HOURS VISIT TO SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE

Harmony of Central Europe

Enjoy a private guided walk through the former summer home of the Habsburg dynasty. Appreciate the grandeur of one of the most important cultural assets of Austria on this tranquil tour with no other travelers around.

VIP AFTER-HOURS TOUR OF HERMITAGE MUSEUM

Remarkable Russia

The palace of the tsars opens just to you for a private, after-hours visit. Enjoy the regal ambience as you explore the treasures of the Hermitage Museum with an art historian.

At Luxury Gold we like to indulge in the exceptional and as such on some of our trips we offer Chairman’s Collection departures. These elite experiences have been personally curated by our Chairman, Mr. Stanley Tollman, and call upon his extensive connections and are inspired by his life in travel. Expect to mingle with legendary locals, including European nobility such as Her Grace, the Duchess of Northumberland, as she personally welcomes you for a private tour of her beloved Alnwick Castle Gardens on our British Royale tour. Or Country Hall of Fame musician Charlie McCoy for a special introduction to Nashville’s impressive music history on our Southern Grace vacation.

You might be asking yourself how we are able to offer such impressive inclusions? Our answer would be a simple one, it is the legacy of the Tollman family, our founders. With now over 100 years in hospitality the Tollman family have dedicated their lives to bringing their incomparable attention to detail to make guests feel truly welcome. To make every journey truly extraordinary – turning travel into gold.

The Tollman family are also strong believers in using travel as a force for good and Luxury Gold is a proud partner of The TreadRight Foundation. TreadRight has supported over 50 sustainable tourism projects worldwide, while also guiding our business on matters that reflect our sustainable values – from implementing a pioneering animal welfare policy to an industry leading ban on avoidable single-use plastics. How We Tread Right is TTC’s new five-year sustainability strategy, which sets the mandate on sustainability at Luxury Gold and our sister travel companies. Our strategy is based on 11 measurable goals, anchored to the United Nations’ Global Goals, and were developed to address Luxury Gold’s impact on People, the Planet and Wildlife.

Feeling inspired? Below you’ll find some of our most popular vacations to feed your wanderlust.

Elegance of the Nile

The father of African rivers the Nile has long been a reflection of Egypt’s history and destiny – an economic lifeline, a great highway to conquest and a source of inspiration throughout the centuries.

Majesty of the Rockies

Take in the majesty of the Rocky Mountains as you travel in luxurious comfort to the most dazzling national parks, glaciers and historic villages of Western Canada. Savor delicious local cuisine in trendy Vancouver and meet passionate Local Experts, as you discover Mother Nature’s bounties from the Rockies to the waters of Alaska.

Ultimate Italy

Step into the ancient world, as a Local Expert shows you the cobblestone alleyways of Pompeii, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel in VIP style, and the gravity-defying Tower of Pisa.

British Royale

Uncover the very essence of Britain and go to significant destinations that were once frequented by the likes of Shakespeare and notorious kings.

Inspiring Australia

From the Great Barrier Reef to the Red Centre of the Outback, Australia boasts a plethora of extraordinary natural wonders. This immersive journey is a showcase of vast tropical rainforests, otherworldly rock formations and ancient indigenous culture. Listen to the sounds of the didgeridoo at a hosted starlit dinner in Uluṟu and take in the iconic sights of Sydney aboard a yacht.