With their sumptuous decor, incredible views, comfy beds and splendid bathrooms, exquisite hotels deserve to be appreciated and admired. And spending extra time in a luxury hotel means the gift of time; time for relaxation, time with loved ones, time to explore as well as precious time for yourself.

Extraordinary hotels are at the heart of every vacation with Luxury Gold, and to transport you to a world of decadence we’ve put together a selection of the finest 5-star hotels in Europe and across the world. Whether you prefer to pamper or work out, sip cocktails, see the sights or stroll magnificent grounds, there are so many self-indulgent ways to spend a blissful 24 hours.

As a treat to our guests, Luxury Gold is giving the Gift of an Extra Night across selected luxury guided tours this summer, offering the chance to extend your stay at these exquisite hotels.

Mena House Hotel, Cairo

One of the world’s most spectacular sights, the Great Pyramids of Giza are the pinnacle of any journey to Egypt. Now, just imagine having this iconic natural wonder watching over you as you relax in your luxurious hotel. A frequent stop for dignitaries and celebrities, the Mena House Hotel is a truly exceptional retreat. Sip champagne cocktails on the terrace, soak in the heated outdoor pool and stroll 40 acres of green gardens, all under the pyramids’ mighty gaze.

We recommend slipping into pure relaxation at the sumptuous spa. Pamper yourself with a rejuvenating body wrap, indulge in a sublime foot massage and spend time with your loved ones in peace and serenity.

Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, Cape Town

The exclusive, tranquil location of the Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa is simply breathtaking. The Atlantic Ocean rolls endlessly out in front of this exquisite hotel, with Table Mountain National Park and Lions Head towering behind. Enjoy the calm and privacy of a country hotel, whilst residing just on the outskirts of Cape Town.

Renowned for its dining, a stay at the Twelve Apostles is the perfect opportunity to treat yourselves to a gastronomic journey around the Cape. Think succulent produce and rich culinary traditions, from craft gin tasting to fine dining. And revel in fine South African wines, skillfully selected by their expert sommelier.

Grand Villa Argentina, Dubrovnik

Reside in decadent style with sublime views across the Adriatic Sea and Dubrovnik’s fairytale Old Town. Set into the steep hillside, surrounded by lush Mediterranean gardens and enchanting terraces, the Grand Villa Argentina is one of the finest luxury hotels in Europe.

With both the beach and the city just minutes away, we recommend spending time by the crystal waters of the Adriatic, letting the golden sand run through your toes. Followed by a stroll through the cobbled lanes, fountains and Baroque churches of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Maybe browse local shops for gifts, or simply sip a coffee and watch the world go by.

Olha Eixample, Barcelona

This exquisite urban boutique hotel is set in one of the most vibrant neighborhoods of Barcelona. The perfect location from which to enjoy the delights of the city, you are just a ten-minute walk from two of Gaudi’s major works, La Pedrera and Casa Batlló.

With numerous luxury boutiques on your doorstep, we suggest you treat yourself and engage the expert assistance of the hotel’s personal shopping service. Then, dine in style at the on-site Michelin-starred Xerta Restaurant. Savor traditional flavors and aromas from the Ebro Region, expertly crafted with fresh fish sourced daily from the local market. No stay at the Olha Eixample is complete without taking in the incredible views of Barcelona from the rooftop. Toast your travels with a glass of fine Spanish wine and enjoy one of the best vantage points in the city.

Hotel Schweizerhof, Luzern

Among one of the most prestigious destinations in Switzerland, Hotel Schweizerhof has been owned and operated by the same family since the 19th century. Marble columns, crafted floors and delicately molded ceilings exude elegance from every angle. It comes as no surprise that this luxury hotel is a favorite of royalty, writers, politicians, musicians and actors; Karl Frey, Richard Wagner and Leo Tolstoy have all rested here.

A hotel so striking you won’t want to leave; this is perfect reason to simply relax and enjoy your surroundings. Explore the art and architecture, indulge in opulent rooms and enjoy flawless service. All with spectacular views over Lake Luzern and the Swiss Alps.

JW Marriott Hotel, Lima

Serenely rising high above the city with its vast glass frontage, the 5-star JW Marriott Hotel is a majestic sight. Everywhere you turn there are windows, inviting you to feast on the sprawling ocean views and the golden beaches of the Costa Verde.

The Peruvian capital offers an extraordinary range of colors, flavors, emotions and sensations, and we recommend spending your time exploring this intriguing city. Step outside and into the vibrant Miraflores district, stroll beautiful parks and discover colonial-era riches. And take time to browse the many art galleries and museums offering a fascinating insight into the history and culture of Peru.

Bauer Palazzo, Venice

Located in the heart of Venice, the exquisite Bauer Palazzo epitomizes true Venetian lifestyle, giving guests a taste of 1930s glamour. Sumptuous interiors transport you to a bygone era, while elegant outdoor terraces invite you to sip fine Italian wine and bask in unforgettable views across Venice.

With its truly enviable location, this is the perfect opportunity to explore this magnificent city at your leisure. Just a few blocks from the iconic St Mark’s Square, take your time to admire the sights in peace and serenity before and after the day trippers leave.

Click here for more information on our Gift of an Extra Night offer and to see the full range of exquisite hotels where you could be staying an extra 24 hours.

For travel lovers, the ringing in of a New Year means new vacation plans. But have you taken time to choose your new year’s travel resolutions?

If you are keen to make 2022 the best year of travel yet, then you are in good company. A recent poll from Expedia has revealed that 2022 will be the year of GOAT – Greatest Of All trips! They surveyed 12,000 travelers across 12 countries, and two thirds said this was their intention.

Check out these other top trends to help you choose your travel resolutions. And maybe your next dream vacation…

1- Step outside your comfort zone

It’s official! 2022 is the year to try something new. Are you thinking of getting back to travel? A popular travel resolution is to push your boundaries a little. There are many ways to add a little spice to your dream vacation without giving up all your comforts.

With Luxury Gold: Admire the Canadian Rockies by helicopter. There’s no better way to see these mesmerizing peaks. And get your thrills at the same time! You can choose a helicopter ride as an optional extra on our Majesty of the Rockies luxury guided tour.

2- Try New Foods

The world is bursting with flavors just waiting to be discovered. 40% of those surveyed by Expedia have vowed to be adventurous and try new foods on their travels.  We can all get stuck in a culinary rut sometimes, and it is well known that traditional recipes, delicacies and delights always taste best in their own country. For any particular eaters out there take a look at our sister blog from Insight Vacations for tips to help you on the way.

With Luxury Gold: Join a Tuscan culinary masterclass, set in the former hunting lodge of the Medici family on our Ultimate Italy luxury guided tour. Join a professional chef, uncover the secrets of Tuscan cooking then taste your creations over a lovely lunch.

3- Immerse Yourself in a New Culture

Travel is about more than just visiting another amazing destination. Travelers are keen to meet the locals and practice new languages. Learning new skills and joining in with local projects and activities are great ways to immerse yourself in new cultures too.

With Luxury Gold: Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and culture of India in the stunning pink city of Jaipur. Join local ladies for a pink rickshaw ride, see the sights and learn all about their lives families and customs. Visit the local flower and spice market, enjoy high tea and sample delicious blends of traditional and contemporary cuisine.  Visit this beautiful country on our Essence of India with Ranthambore and Spirit of North & South India luxury guided tours.

4- Spend Less Time on Devices

Don’t we all wish that we would put our phones down and disconnect more often? Recent times have taught us not to take anything for granted, to savor the moment. Nearly a quarter of those surveyed plan to spend less time on their devices to be more in the present, and what better way to do this than with travel?

With Luxury Gold: Visit the magnificent Iguassu Falls in South America and devices will be the last thing on your mind. These immense cascades are the largest waterfall system in the world and sit on the border of Argentina and Brazil. Connect with the present in this enchanting world on our Classic South America and Grand South America luxury guided tours.

5- Get Back to Nature

Enjoying off-the-beaten-path experiences and destinations is a must for 2022, say a quarter of survey respondents. Maybe this means trying new routes around destinations you have seen before, or completely new journeys to faraway lands.

With Luxury Gold: Step away from it all with a voyage to the spellbinding Machu Picchu. It doesn’t get more off the beaten path than this! This is just one of the ways to get back to nature on our Treasures of the Incas 12-day luxury guided tour. Gain a whole new perspective as you explore the natural wonders of Peru.

6- Find a Sense of Contentment and Mental Well-Being

Wanting a little bit more from our travels is becoming increasingly important, to find a sense of contentment. This could be achieved by giving something back, contributing to the preservation of traditions or just knowing that you’ve left a lasting positive impact as you go.

With Luxury Gold:  Meet the fascinating and entertaining Marta on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at Laboratorio Giuditta Brozzetti, in Italy. Discover how she and her weavers are preserving the medieval Umbrian tradition of loom-weaving at their artisanal workshop. The workshop is owned by women and actively empowers women and girls through its education and training programs. Meet the women and admire the craft, and bring this travel resolution to life on our Ultimate Italy luxury guided tour.

7- Go Luxury!

Among U.S. respondents, 40% say they are more willing to treat themselves and spend money on upcoming travel. This includes indulging in luxurious experiences, upgrading hotels or visiting a bucket-list destination.

With Luxury Gold: We’ve got all this and more! What better way to take the journey of a lifetime and visit the places you have always dreamed of? Think 5-star hotels, exceptional cuisine, VIP Experiences and your Travel Concierge and Well-Being Director taking care of every detail. With Luxury Gold you can just concentrate on having an amazing time.

So have we helped you make your travel resolutions?  Why not give yourselves the ultimate travel treat this year? Take a look at our collection of worldwide luxury guided tours in our interactive brochure and imagine yourself packing your suitcase.

Ahhhhh, Mmmmm, hot chocolate – oh yes, we’re calling all chocolate lovers as we at Luxury Gold love it as much as you! It’s one of life’s simple pleasures that is also the ultimate indulgence, with a velvety smooth taste and decadent aroma that conjures up feelings of warmth, comfort and a sense of belonging (with just a dash of naughtiness on the side).

Whether you daydream of sipping a thick, creamy hot chocolate at breakfast in a cafe in Florence, Italy, as you watch this enchanting, artistic city come to life, or picture yourself clutching a mug of deep dark velvet as you watch the sun set in Bordeaux, France……take a moment now to picture yourself discovering some of the world’s best recipes as you enjoy an exclusive travel experience with us.

As specialists in luxury guided travel, we at Luxury Gold believe that everyone deserves a treat. So here is a short guide to where you can savor the world’s best hot chocolate, and which fabulous journeys from our collection can take you there. Read on and let your imagination and your senses run wild…

A Short History

Picture by Aidan Cooks

Originating in Mexico, hot chocolate has been a popular drink for thousands of years. First created by the Maya around 1500 BC, it was known as xocoatl and consisted of cacao beans, water and a little spice. Introduced into Europe in the 1500s by Spanish conquistadors, following their expedition to present-day Mexico and the Aztec civilization, hot chocolate soon became a favored exotic beverage around the continent, with its forms and recipes undergoing multiple changes. Hot chocolate was first introduced to North America as early as the 17th century by the Dutch, with its popularity increasing as it began to be sold by colonists around 1755.

Something for every palate

Be it light and frothy and aromatic with lashings of milk or deeply dark and so thick you can stand a spoon in it, there is a hot chocolate recipe to match every palate and moment so let yourself be led by the traditions of your dream travel destination. Choose to add mountains of whipped cream, a dash of spice, jazz it up with a shot of expresso or try the delicate touch of rosemary with wine…and that’s just the start. Of course, nowadays amongst all the indulgence, there are also many healthy ways to enjoy hot chocolate including vegan, unsweetened, and recipes using spices that have health benefits such as cinnamon, cardamon, ginger and turmeric. Whatever your preference, sampling hot chocolate on your travels is always a new delight and will leave you with intense, and happy memories.

Photo by Fallon Michael

Every moment with Luxury Gold is designed to delight and our luxury guided tours take in amazing locations and offer off-the-beaten-track experiences where a hot chocolate is just the ticket. Here are some of the best:

New Mexico – back to hot chocolate’s roots

Given its origins, it is no surprise that New Mexico USA boasts some of the best hot chocolate in the world so it’s our first place to start.  You can visit on our Resorts and Ranches of Colorado & New Mexico luxury guided tour, a stunning journey that explores the very best of the West,  starting in Denver and travelling down through Colorado Springs and onto Santa Fe in New Mexico. Here you can find the Kakawa Chocolate House, founded in 2005, with the name Kakawa deriving from an Olmec word meaning chocolate or cacao. Here you can enjoy a journey through history that delights the palate as they specialize in hot chocolate recipes created from traditional sources, ranging from pre-Columbian to colonial American to contemporary sources. For the brave there is a Chili Elixir, made with spicy chilies, or history lovers can sip the Jefferson Elixir, inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s own recipe.

Poland‘s change of heart

When first introduced to Poland in the 18th Century, chocolate was somewhat controversial. Many did not like its bitter taste and felt it was better used for animals. However, opinions began to change when it was served hot, with added cane sugar, cinnamon and anise – simply delicious! Curious travelers can learn all about the country’s hot chocolate history at the E. Wendel Hot Chocolate Lounge in Krakow, one of the grand cities on our Harmony of Central Europe luxury guided tour, a voyage of Europe’s grandeur that also takes in Prague, Vienna, Budapest, and Warsaw. Dating back to 1851, E. Wedel is the oldest Polish brand of chocolate and has created a refined brand of drinking chocolates served in “chocolate lounges” across Poland. You can sit back and sample from selections such as bitter, slightly bitter, milk, double milk, white, and choose from a range of intriguing flavors including raspberries in wine, and caramel with sea salt.

Chocolat Chaud

For the French, traditional hot chocolate is deep, dark and unreservedly glorious and is the perfect travel companion when on our Ultimate Southern France luxury guided tour. Sip a decadent cup at breakfast as you watch the streets spring to life in Marseille, savor hot chocolate on a lazy brunch with fresh croissants as you relax in the countryside of Provence or enjoy an afternoon’s treat after exploring the sights of Bordeaux. In the early 1600s when Anne of Austria came to marry King Louis XIII of France, she brought hot chocolate in her suitcases. Bordeaux, where she got married, embraced this exotic new ingredient and it became embedded in the traditions of the region. One particular Bordeaux favorite is The Moremont Tea House – discover its unique and intoxicating recipe and get the VIP treatment as your chosen beverage is prepared with the same luxury ritual as if you were the royal princess herself.

Italian flair

Think Italy, think thick, creamy and delicious! You’ll be pleased to hear that the Italians consider hot chocolate an important part of their gastronomic history so you are in for a treat at every turn. One of the best and most historical places to relish a cup and get the full VIP experience is Caffé Rivoire in Florence. Founded in 1872 when Enrico Rivoire, chocolatier of the Savoy royal family, opened up shop, they still use the same traditional secret recipe today and serve hot chocolate almost as rich and dense as chocolate pudding. You can savor mouth-watering recipes at every stop on our Ultimate Italy luxury guided tour, which takes you on an exclusive voyage through some of the most intoxicating and beautiful Italian cities including Florence, Naples, Capri and Rome.

And of course…..Switzerland

To speak of anything chocolate and not mention Switzerland is like talking about Butch Cassidy without the Sundance Kid, they just go together, making it a must-see destination for chocolate lovers. So not surprisingly there are many great places to indulge in hot chocolate in this sublime Alpine nation. The Swiss often take their hot chocolate with cinnamon and, of course, Swiss chocolate, with some of the most delectable establishments being found in the northern city of Zurich. The first destination on our Majestic Switzerland luxury guided tour, when exploring Zurich take a moment to visit the centuries-old Café Schober, located in the picturesque Old Town. Famed for its rich, creamy recipes, they melt chocolate into whole milk for a sublime and decadent treat. Savor yours with a mountain of fresh whipped cream, or with a shot of espresso as you explore this captivating city.

So if your mouth is now watering and you’re inspired to follow your passion for hot chocolate, why not make yourself a cup and sit down to browse through our fantastic collection of luxury guided tours now available for 2022 and beyond. With every tour featuring exclusive hotels and unforgettable VIP experiences, where will your chocolate passion take you next?

For more information on the following luxury guided tours please follow these links. :

• Resorts and Ranches of Colorado & New Mexico
• Harmony of Central Europe
• Ultimate Southern France
• Ultimate Italy
• Majestic Switzerland

And you can view the full collection here at luxurygold.com