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Put the world in your hands

The luxury travel experts

The world is vast, full of wonders. But information engulfs us. See this, do that, don’t miss this. It seems the more choice there is, the more overwhelmed we feel. What’s more, you’re never asked how you want to feel . In fact, you’re rarely asked anything. That’s not us. We are people. People who value human connection and thrive on connecting you to our vast world. A company of people renowned for planning remarkable and luxurious travel experiences.

So let’s begin. Let’s do something remarkable.

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“Black Tomato has made it a mission to keep the world of travel fresh, responsible, and exciting”

“Black Tomato are one of the coolest things in the world. Don’t even try and live without them”

“Many travel companies brag about offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences but with Black Tomato, it’s not hyperbole”

“Black Tomato prides itself on meeting customers every minor need or desires”

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James Bond Travel Experiences

Where to go when, vote for us, explore our trips.

Remarkable experiences to inspire the mind

A luxury Tuscany and Amalfi Coast holiday: La…

The best of japan: ancient traditions & modern…, kenya: the ultimate family safari, best of morocco: berbers, kasbahs & camels, south iceland, golden circle & reykjavik: from land….

Trekking across remote parts of the country, navigating by compass and sight, I was rewarded with memories that will last a lifetime

K, Mongolia

We have explored some incredible places and had unique adventures that could have only been made possible with their guidance

Ike and Alexa, Italy

Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful. Black Tomato is top notch – you will not be disappointed

Wendy, Morocco

As a solo traveller, Black Tomato did an excellent job of allowing me to experience Cuba and the Cuban people in a truly creative way

Black Tomato will change the way you travel

Micah, Egypt

Glamping, hiking, icebergs, gourmet food. Not sure how my trip could have been any better

Jimmy, Greenland

A dream come true – from small riads to a mountain fortress and a desert oasis. Black Tomato delivered

Kim, Morocco

Our Purpose

Inspiring people through remarkable travel experiences, what we do and why we do it.

Since our founding in 2005, Black Tomato has always been about creating remarkable, tailor-made trips for travellers around the world. Tom and James – our co-founders – know this better than anyone. You can meet them in our new video.

Our guide to luxury travel

Luxury holidays are personal. They mean something different for each and every one of us. For some, luxury is hiking in peaceful solitude through a remote corner of the desert, while for others it’s the indulgence of sipping cocktails aboard a private yacht, sailing gently through the Mediterranean. Whatever floats your boat, so to speak.

Our team of seasoned travellers are connoisseurs of luxury, curating unparalleled experiences, tailor-made tours and bespoke adventures. Whether you seek the opulence of a secluded villa in the Tuscan hills or the thrill of an exclusive safari in the heart of Africa, we’ll craft a journey that exceeds your expectations.

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VOTED AS A BEST TRAVEL SPECIALIST IN THE 2023 CONDÉ NAST TRAVELLER READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

A TOP 10 TOUR OPERATOR IN TRAVEL + LEISURE WORLD’S BEST AWARDS 2023

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Take the risk out of travelling

When planning your trip, we always look to secure the most flexible terms available. Wherever possible, this will include 100% refunds and fee-free postponements should any Covid complications arise between booking and travel.

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• Luxury Algarve Holidays
• Luxury Crete Holidays
• Luxury Corfu Holidays
• Luxury Halkidiki Holidays
• Luxury Lanzarote Holidays
• Luxury Majorca Holidays
• Luxury Maldives Holidays
• Luxury Mauritius Holidays
• Luxury Mykonos Holidays
• Luxury Sorrento Holidays

Domes Lake Algarve, Autograph Collection is one of the most luxurious hotels and is perfect for a family holiday.

• Luxury Gran Canaria Holidays
• Luxury Tenerife Holidays

Allow us to help you filter through our best holidays based on your desires and needs.

• Grand Park Hotel Rovinj
• Sun Gardens Dubrovnik
• Dubrovnik & Split
• Hotel Park Split

Discover Dubrovnik's Venetian chapels and Split's biggest living palace complex in the world.

• All Croatia
• Istria Countryside
• Annabelle Hotel
• Hotel Elysium
• Alexander the Great Beach Hotel
• Amavi Hotel - Made For Two Hotels
• Constantinou Bros Asimina Suites Hotel
• Columbia Beach Resort
• Amanti, Made For Two Hotels
• Troodos Mountains
• Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection
• MarBella, Mar-Bella Collection
• Ikos Dassia
• Ikos Oceania

At Sovereign, we give you complete flexibility to choose your perfect island hopping holiday.

• Athenian Riviera
• Peloponnese
• Luxury Lake Como Holidays
• Luxury Lake Garda Holidays
• Luxury Amalfi Holidays

Italy is home to a diverse and varied landscape, where you’ll find skiing in the mountains, beautiful golden beaches in Sardinia and world famous ancient ruins in Rome.

• Italian Lakes
• Neapolitan Riviera
• Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort
• Domes Lake Algarve, Autograph Collection
• Pine Cliffs Village
• Vila Vita Parc
• Savoy Palace And The Reserve
• Reids Palace a Belmond Hotel
• The Cliff Bay

With short flight times and year round sun, Portugal is a fantastic choice for a family holiday.

• All Portugal
• Hotel Bahia del Duque
• Red Level at Gran Melia Palacio De Isora
• The Ritz-Carlton, Abama
• Ikos Andalusia
• Zafiro Palace Alcudia

We make travelling as a family easy, with our carefully selected range of luxury family hotels

• Canary Islands
• Fuerteventura
• Gran Canaria
• Costa del Sol
• Windjammer Landing Resort and Residences
• Blue Waters & Cove Suites Antigua
• Fairmont Royal Pavilion
• Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana

Whatever you choose to do, our family holidays in the Caribbean offer plenty of fun in the sun, whatever age your children are.

• Dominican Republic
• LUX South Ari Atoll
• Heritage Le Telfair Golf and Wellness Resort
• Anantara Iko
• Dubai & the Maldives

Start off in the diamond-bright emirate of Dubai, before spending seven nights between the sugar-sand beaches and tropical mountains of Mauritius.

• Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah
• Atlantis The Palm
• Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort
• The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert

An exclusive, ocean-front resort with elegant rooms and villas, located on the iconic Palm Jumeirah in Dubai

• Ras Al Khaimah

Escape the long British winter with a relaxing holiday in the sunshine. We can recommend the best destinations so you can switch off and unwind.

Enjoy luxuries like large family suites, interconnecting rooms, kids' clubs and family friendly restaurants to make the most of your family holiday.

Browse our collection of hand-picked luxury villas, selected for their inspiring locations and exceptional quality.

• All Holiday Types
• 2025 Holidays
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• Winter Sun Holidays
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• Luxury Island Holidays
• Villa Holidays
• Long Haul Holidays
• Island-Hopping Holidays
• Hotels with Private Pools
• Hotels with Swim-Up Rooms
• Hotels with Villas
• Luxury Honeymoons
• Multi-Centre Holidays

It's never too late to book a last minute luxury holiday with Sovereign. Our late escape offers include some great savings.

Save on your luxury family holiday today. We have some great offers when departing during the school holidays.

2024 holidays are now on sale so seize the sunshine with our early booking discounts and have something to look forward to next year!

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Picking a holiday can be tricky with all the choices. Allow us to help you filter through our best holidays based on your desires and needs.

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At Sovereign, we are committed to working with trusted partners and making sure that their hotels meet our standards, giving you the peace of mind to holiday safely.

We’re celebrating 50 years of Sovereign Luxury Travels. Luxury is personal to each and every one of our guests, which is why we have always truly tailored our holidays.

Ready to chat through some ideas? Our Personal Travel Planners are here to plan your perfect holiday and will be on hand from the moment you first get in touch, right through until you’re back home.

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Indulge in hand-picked five-star hotels, gourmet dining, and exclusive experiences.

Experts in creating personalised luxury holidays

Why choose sovereign.

50+ Years Experience

Dedicated Personal Travel Planners with over 50 years of experience.

Hand Picked Hotels

Luxury holidays with handpicked hotels around the world.

Travel With Confidence

Travel with confidence with 24/7 support, ABTA and ATOL protected.

Your plans, our expertise

Luxury Travel Offers

Are you thinking of your next luxury escape? Find inspiration today with some of our favourite special offers below. Let us help you find your dream holiday - Give us a call on 01293 762400.

Daios Cove, Crete

Daios Cove is located in its own private cove, where guests can relax and take in the views of the glittering Aegean Sea. It’s home to a stunning infinity pool which overlooks the cove and offers sun loungers and a bar and restaurant. The beach itself has lounger service, as well as a range of water sports.

Special Offers

• Up to 40% room discount
• Free Full Board upgrade

Domes Novos Santorini, Santorini

Situated just 5 minutes from the historic town of Oia, Domes Novos Santorini offers a tranquil escape, blended with opulent living among volcanic landscapes. Offering views of the Aegean Sea, you’re in a calming environment, where luxury and tranquillity meet. 

Special Offer

• Up to 35% room discount

Kuredu Island Resort & Spa, Maldives

Kuredu Island Resort & Spa offers guests the luxury of choice and comfort, from comfortable bungalows in the palm groves, to stunning water villas over the turquoise waters. Kuredu Maldives also offers a range of cuisines to enjoy, from Indian and Chinese to local Maldivian flavours.

Last Minute Offers

Luxury holiday finder

Our top destinations.

From trending destinations to time-tested classics – we’re always adding to our collection of luxury holiday destinations.

What our guests think

  We've been finding people their own slice of paradise for 50 years, and like to think we're pretty good at it.  Don't just take our word for it, though - see what our customers have said about their Sovereign experience..

Award-Winning Luxury Holidays Designed by Travel Experts

Where your journey begins.

As an independent and award-winning luxury tour operator , we have been curating extraordinary holidays for over 20 years. Our team of luxury travel specialists will provide you with a one-of-a-kind, personalised itinerary, meticulously crafting your dream holiday. As we frequently visit our luxury worldwide collection we will share invaluable insights to ensure that your holiday is everything that you imagined. Welcome to a world where your dreams come to life, where luxury is not a destination but the very essence of your journey.

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Over 20 years’ experience.

Creating individually tailored itineraries to exclusive destinations for more than two decades.

ABTA & ATOL protection

We ensure your holiday is protected and you have support before, during and after your time away.

Booking flexibility

Our flexible booking terms have been designed to help put your mind at rest.

Concierge travel advisors

Your luxury travel expert will take care of your holiday from beginning to end.

Spring 2024 Holidays

Unlock the season of vibrancy with our handpicked spring holiday offers.

Summer 2024 Holidays

Sun, sand, and splendid memories await! Dive into summer with these exclusive getaways.

Autumn 2024 Holidays

Uncover the richness of fall with our curated collection of autumn holiday offers.

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Our luxury difference.

Why should you trust your holiday to Luxury Worldwide Collection. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Award-Winning

Our commitment to designing unforgettable travel experiences has been recognised at the British Travel Awards.

Virtuoso Benefits

We're able to offer extra benefits at the worlds most luxurious hotels and resorts that you won’t find anywhere else.

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Join us on our cultural walking adventures, as we explore the world on foot at eye level.

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Fuel your soul. One step at a time.

We believe that travel—and in particular connecting with other people and cultures when you travel—fuels your soul in a way that very few things do. So, through our relationships with well-connected local guides, we introduce you to the most memorable experiences and interesting people—artisans, winemakers, hoteliers, chefs, naturalists, and more. And, with this extended family, we handcraft Cultural Walking Adventures that empower you to see the world, on foot and at eye level. Want to join us?

We create the most culturally rich & authentic walking tours in the world … here’s how.

Curated Walks

Immerse and connect you across cultures as you explore on foot.

Small Groups, Guaranteed

Mean deeper, richer experiences while making friends along the way.

Exceptional Local Guides

Bring authentic experiences to life.

Eat Like (& With) the Locals

Local flavors and time to savor the moments together.

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Where luxury and local mean you feel at home.

Regenerative Travel

We take strides to preserve cultures, traditions, and nature.

Why We Walk

Explore the world on foot at eye level as you walk part of each morning and afternoon with your truly local, expert guides on the most cinematic footpaths in a region. With our long-term local friendships, we know our regions more personally than anyone else. So, you get thoughtfully handcrafted itineraries whose walks are about so much more than just counting miles. They lead to memorable moments that immerse you in the history, the culture, and most importantly the people of the places you’re exploring.

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Explore Classic Journeys Blog

The Group Trip for People Who Hate Group Trips

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Experience Stonehenge the Classic Journeys Way

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The Best Hikes in Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, & The Grand Canyon

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Enjoy the finest end to end experience on the world's leading limited edition small group tours. Learn more about your unparalleled inclusions.

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FIND YOUR PERFECT LUXURY VACATION IN MEXICO

• All Destinations Baja California & Sea of Cortez Chiapas Colonial Mexico Copper Canyon & N. Mexico Guadalajara & Tequila Guanajuato Gulf Coast Los Cabos Mexico City Oaxaca Off the Beaten Path Pacific Coast Puebla Puerto Vallarta & Punta de Mita Riviera Maya, Tulum & Cancun San Miguel de Allende Yucatan Peninsula
• All Experiences Active Adventures Air Expeditions Archeology Art & Native Crafts Beaches Cultural Heritage Day of the Dead Executive Retreats Family Vacations Food & Wine Hiking & Treking Landscape Private Villas Relax Romance Summer Travel Weekend Escapes Wellness Wildlife Yachts

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Journey Mexico crafts tailor-made, luxury holidays for discerning travelers who seek unique and authentic experiences

Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday, enriching cultural experience, or something more adventurous and off the beaten path, we have the knowledge and expertise to create your perfect luxury vacation in Mexico.

TRENDING NOW

Explore Riviera Nayarit's Tropical Playground ft. One&Only Mandarina

Explore riviera nayarit's tropical playground.

Unravel the tropical, lush layers of the Mexican Pacific with Journey Mexico.

Signature Villa 01

Experience ultimate luxury in this Riviera Nayarit villa.

Awaken the Senses at One&Only Mandarina

Awaken the senses at mandarina.

Explore the guest experience at Mandarina through the senses.

Journey Mexico is Officially B-Corp Certified

We’re officially B-Corp Certified!

Our Commitment to Sustainability And Community Impact

Our commitment to sustainability & community impact.

Travel can & should support local communities % environmental projects

What Not to Miss: Meet Luxury in Los Cabos

Read on for our top picks of what to do in Los Cabos!

FOODIE TOUR THROUGH MEXICO CITY & OAXACA

On this trip specifically designed for food and drink lovers, you’ll dive into Mexico’s famed street food scene, sampling the very best food stalls and getting to the bottom of taco culture.

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RIVIERA MAYA TULUM & CANCUN

YUCATAN PENINSULA

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WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING ABOUT US

Journey Mexico planned a wonderful anniversary trip for us. Zach and his team really know the best spots in Mexico. They were there with ideas and support throughout the trip. Fantastic and super responsive. Highly recommend.

Jessica S. G. October 2022

We worked with Journey Mexico on our recent trip to Merida. The trip was amazing and exceeded all expectations. Each day and activity was well planned. For a family of 5 (including 3 children) it’s often hard to find something for everyone. Everyone that we encountered was phenomenal, from our travel assistant Jesús, to our driver Sergio, to our tour guide Angel. They worked hard to make sure that our trip was all that we wanted it to be, and it was perfect! I highly recommend!

Ashley P. October 2022, Yucatan Peninsula

Wonderful, attentive and responsive Travel Agency based in Mexico. My wife and I booked a 10-day trip to Oaxaca, Mexico with Journey Mexico. They were very helpful and responsive during the planning stage. Followed up to make sure we were ready for the trip and assigned a travel assistant to assist during our trip. She was always just a text message away - 24/7. Very helpful. We had an issue come up during the trip and she immediately responded and did everything possible to solve the problem. Highly recommend this group - we will use them any time we are traveling in Mexico.

Steven C. October 2022, Oaxaca City & Puerto Escondido

Thanks for following up. We had a lovely time - most specifically the property was perfect for the weekend & the staff, Rodolfo & Chef Hector & team were absolute perfection. They were the perfect addition to making our stay so personal (and with the most amazing food & cocktails!). Our driver for our Tulum trip was also very kind & attentive. Thanks again for all the help and support from your side setting up the activities & managing our menu & grocery, and responding to our many questions!! The group is already looking forward to booking with Journey Mexico again.

Kristin M. Sept 2022, Alma Rosa Bachelorete

I just wanted to thank you for all you did to arrange our stay at Villa Mariola. Everything was ready for us when we arrived and the safety gates created the safe environment that we needed with 4 toddlers. The villa was comfortable and the staff was pleasant, hard working and accommodating. The chef’s Rafael and Alex are amazing, every meal that they created was like eating in an upscale New York restaurant. Thank you again, Debbie and the Tosi and Muser families

Debbie T. June 2022, Villa Mariola

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10 best luxury holiday destinations around the world for 2024

From lake como to the seychelles, here’s our pick of the world’s most decadent destinations, article bookmarked.

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Since most of us can’t afford to jet off to Monaco every weekend or spend a couple of weeks a year lazing in the Maldives , if there is a special occassion or bucket list holiday you’ve been saving for, you’ll want to think carefully about where to go.

Key to luxury breaks tends to be a spectacular location, impeccable service, wonderfully comfortable accommodation and excellent cuisine. For some, the ultimate luxury is overwater villas in Bali , for others it’s glamping out on safari in the Masai Mara. City breakers may be after a five-star stay in New York or Paris, while spa fans could seek out a countryside retreat or Caribbean getaway.

If you’re not yet sure what your perfect luxe break would be, we’ve rounded up some of the best luxury holiday destinations in the world to help get you inspired. And if you have thousands of spare pounds burning a hole in your pocket, you may even be able to book one of them.

Lake Como, Italy

Luxury may be closer to home than you think. Lake Como has gained a reputation for being a favourite destination among celebrities, as well as featuring in popular TV shows such as Succession . One of the three famous Italian lakes (alongside Garda and Maggiore), Como lies close to Milan and the town itself can be reached by train in roughly 45 minutes (although some popular towns, such as Bellagio, are easier to drive to in just over an hour and a half).

The towns on the lake carry just as much glitz and glamour as the fashion capital, with centuries-old mansions and villas lining the banks and pastel-coloured buildings falling behind into the lush green hills. Since their construction, many of these mansions have been turned into chic lakeside hotels, offering impeccable views and classical-style luxury.

Where to stay

The Grand Hotel Tremezzo certainly lives up to its name. Looking out onto Bellagio, this decadent hotel offers indoor and outdoor pools, a spa and even a floating pool sitting on the lake to add to its grand interiors.

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Mykonos, Greece

While famed for its reputation as a party destination, the right parts of Mykonos can offer a welcome retreat away from the crowds (in busier times, this is a luxury in itself). Along with neighbouring Santorini, this Greek island in the Cyclades welcomes millions of tourists per year, but it’s easy to see why. With the same white-washed houses and domed churches that have made its Aegean neighbour so (Instagram) famous, Mykonos provides a similar level of glamour on its own winding streets and pristine beaches.

Mykonos Town and Ornos are the two largest villages on the island and provide enough to do if you do want to leave your idyllic beach retreat. Psarou is perhaps the most well-known beach on the island, with beach clubs such as Nammos and Scorpios just some of the many places to try if you do fancy sampling the boujie nightlife.

The Santa Marina Resort is a Greek -owned, beachside resort in Ornos that provides guests with their very own private stretch of beach. Complete with a waterside sushi restaurant and extensive views over the ocean.

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Health & wellbeing, the seychelles.

This Indian Ocean archipelago of 115 islands sits around 1,600km away from the coast of Africa, making it difficult to get to but all the more exclusive (and less disturbed by mass tourism). The capital, Victoria, sits on the main island of Mahe, but the chances are that most visitors will want to go straight to whatever beach-equipped, ocean-view accommodation they’ve booked.

The country will always compete with the Maldives and Mauritius as a popular Indian Ocean destination, but it scored a lot of points when the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited for their honeymoon in 2011. It’s easy to see why; this cluster of islands offers warm turquoise waters, tall granite mountains and white-sand beaches galore.

Eden Bleu Hotel sits on Eden Island, just off the coast of Mahe. Rooms carry a view of either the marina or the granite mountains, while the restaurant also has marina views complete with a poolside terrace.

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Kenya’s safari offerings make it an excellent option for another type of luxury vacation. The country’s Masai Mara National Reserve provides the chance to see all of the Big Five game animals: lions, elephants, black rhinos, buffalo and leopards.

With such astounding areas of natural beauty and wildlife to match, it’s no wonder that a Kenyan wildlife retreat can make an excellent option for a luxury holiday. A safari is rightly on many people’s bucket lists, and part of the appeal here is how different it is to other ‘stereotypical’ luxury retreats.

The accommodation at Muthu Keekorok Lodge offers traditional interiors, private patios and balconies with views over the reserve. The pool and sundeck also possess scenic views, while the Hippo Bar and Elephant Deck provide an amazing setting for a dinner overlooking the lake or the bush.

Oahu, Hawaii, USA

Almost all of Hawaii has potential luxury for visitors, but Oahu is a good contender for first prize as the best island due to a wider range of activities. While you’ll likely not want to stay there, Honolulu (the state capital) offers an eclectic city experience, with standard US-style grandeur mixed with traditional Polynesian influences and the tropical setting creating a city unlike almost any other in the world.

Add to this the tremendously fresh cuisine, Hawaiian ceremonies and dancing, and tranquil beach areas, and there’s a recipe for an unbeatable luxury break.

Located on The North Shore of the island (famous for its surfing spots), Turtle Bay has been a filming location for films such as The Hunger Games and Forgetting Sarah Marshall . With a five-mile piece of coastline at its side, the hotel offers excellent options for swimming and beach activities and excellent pools too, as well as hiking, horseriding and tennis.

Cote d’Azur, France

Known as the French Riviera to many Brits, this section of southern France has everything from picturesque cities to glamorous beach resorts. Some of France’s most famous tourist destinations sit along this stretch of coastline – including Nice , Saint-Tropez and Cannes – along with Monaco, with visitors flocking to the area every year for sunbathing, sightseeing and a taste of famed French culture. The fact that these towns play host to Film Festivals, F1 races, yachts and past visits from Queen Victoria speaks to the glitz and glamour of this part of the country.

Similar in grandeur and red roof design, Nice and Cannes are the cities on the riviera, with the various attractions – galleries, museums and the famed Promenade des Anglais (Nice) and Boulevard de la Croisette – making them worth a visit. Due to its reputation in decades gone by, Saint-Tropez remains synonymous with the Cote d’Azur’s luxurious spirit, while towns such as Menton provide all the colourful pastel buildings that you’d expect from this section of European coast.

The Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat sits right on the coast just half an hour’s drive from Nice. Each of the villas has a southern-French design (think pastel colours and shuttered windows), while rooms are decidedly minimalist yet stylish. With other rooms offering sea views and private pools, this is a slice of luxury in France’s luxury capital.

The Maldives

Another Indian Ocean (and Instagram) favourite, the Maldives has become known for the plethora of overwater villas that have taken over its waters. These islands are what the ‘dream’ beach holiday looks like: bone-white beaches surrounded by palm trees and crystal-clear turquoise waters, with meandering wooden walkways leading out onto dozens of thatched-roof villas, where swimming with tropical fish is only a few steps away.

While one of the ultimate luxury destinations for relaxation, the country’s location and geography lend themselves to water-based activities. Diving and snorkelling are popular, with various spots good for seeing hammerhead sharks, manta rays and whale sharks. There are also numerous opportunities for sailing, fishing and surfing.

A recent refurbishment means that many of the 193 villas at LUX South Ari Atoll (some of which are, of course overwater) are brand new, while the spa has also been revamped. Six restaurant offerings, all focused on the cuisine of a different country, mean guests barely need to leave the resort, unless keen to take one of their organised tours to swim with whale sharks.

You could go to the Caribbean a thousand times and still not have stayed in all the luxury offerings in countries such as the Bahamas, Barbados or the Dominican Republic. However, for something a little more unique – and isolated – head to St Lucia. The country has a natural landscape and idyllic setting that is among some of the most scenic places in the world.

With towering volcanoes hugging the coastline and dense rainforest spanning much of the heart of the island nation, St Lucia has a different landscape to many other popular Caribbean destinations. Add to this a wide selection of pristine beaches – such as Marigot Bay and Sugar Beach – and the accessibility of towns such as Castries and Soufriere, and you have a winning combination for the perfect luxury holiday.

Located on a volcano ridgeline in a Unesco World Heritage Site in Soufriere, Ladera provides stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and St Lucia’s Twin Pitons (two volcanic plugs, created when magma hardens). Each of the hotel’s 37 rooms has its own private plunge pool and views of the Pitons, one of the Caribbean’s most famous natural landmarks.

Los Cabos, Mexico

Situated at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula, Los Cabos has become a popular destination for American visitors, owing to its proximity to the US border. The municipality consists of the towns of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, which are linked by a 32km corridor of coastline which contains several popular resorts. Despite perhaps having fewer acitivities than other popular Mexican resorts, Los Cabos’ natural beauty and colonial towns set it apart from others.

The rugged landscape and rocky formations on the coastline are a drastically different setting to places like Cancun, although the striking turquoise waters are admittedly present around much of the country’s coast. San Jose del Cabo offers an escape from the nightlife and rowdiness of Cabo San Lucas, with colonial architecture and multicoloured cobbled streets providing a reminder that, despite outside influence, you are indeed in Mexico.

Sitting roughly 10 minutes away from San Jose del Cabo – with easy access for when you want to see the town – One&Only Palmilla houses one of the only swimmable beaches in Cabo. If that wasn’t enough of an attraction already, a 22,000 square feet spa and villas that offer private pools and beach access are part of the deal.

Bali, Indonesia

A nickname like Land of the Gods certainly suggests that Bali would make an unbeatable holiday destination for any of us mere mortals, and the Indonesian island has become a popular spot for honeymooners and luxury seekers alike. Many of the 390,000 UK visitors that Indonesia welcomes every year will visit the island, now famed for its natural beauty, rice paddies and temples and its sense of tranquility.

While its reputation and the wealth of activities on offer mean that parts of the island are more popular with travelling adults and partygoers, those looking for luxury can pick from plenty of places to enjoy long sandy beaches, crystalline waters, verdant rainforest and volcanic hills.

Nirjhara is a jungle resort found in between the rice fields of Tabanan, not far from Canggu on the southwest of the island. The accommodation options here are far different to those that most of us will ever have experienced, ranging from one-bedroom treehouses with a private rooftop to two-bedroom villas with a jungle terrace and private infinity pool.

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More From Forbes

Is luxury private travel for you.

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Luxury private travel offers an unparalleled experience for a premium.

Luxury private travel allows you to experience and view the world from a different perspective. While still exclusive, it’s becoming easier and more attainable, as several companies offer luxury private travel options. With these services, you can build personalized vacation packages and enjoy curated trips that include charter flights, private transfers and world-class hotels in nearly any country.

What is Luxury Private Travel?

Luxury private travel is leisure tourism at its finest, which consists of hands-on travel benefits for solo, couples and family trips to just about any destination in the world. You can work with an agent to make a customized itinerary or partake in experience packages that may cater to a travel party.

A private jet (Photo by Brais Lorenzo / AFP) (Photo by BRAIS LORENZO/AFP via Getty Images)

This travel practice usually includes some or all of the following:

● Private jet travel

● Staying at five-star properties or all-inclusive resorts

● Private tours and luxury experiences (i.e., racing, safaris, wilderness expeditions and beach trips)

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Booking the perfect trip can be time-consuming and stressful as you attempt to secure jet seats, luxury accommodations, transportation and destination excursions. Instead of doing all the research yourself, many luxury-focused agencies cater to requests for just about any travel style.

Until recently, bespoke travel packages were an exclusive privilege for those with a near-limitless travel budget. However, these innovative experiences are now attainable by many through small group journeys and curated itineraries as Jets100 offers at a fraction of the cost of traditional charter travel or boutique travel agencies.

Afshin Sajedi, the CEO of Jets 100, said his goal is to “pioneer sustainable luxury in high-end travel.” He helped drive Jets 100's global expansion, offering journeys to Formula 1 destinations mentioned above and beyond. From Jet 100's website their focus is on their “commitment to customer-centricity and cutting-edge technology ensures Jets100 remains at the forefront of private aviation, shaping the future of luxury travel with unparalleled sophistication and environmental stewardship.”

Sajedi’s vision of affordable private jet experiences stems from his journey of being born in Iran, overcoming various challenges, and is now a successful entrepreneur based out of the United States. He also shares his passion by writing the chapter, “Beyond First Class: Redefining Luxury Travel in the 21st Century” in Brian Tracy’s book, Winning Strategies for Success .

Examples of Luxury Travel

Travelers wanting to build an ongoing relationship with a particular agency can benefit from working with a solo organization or a dedicated luxury travel agent. Customizable packages vary by agency.

Small Group Journeys

Jets100 specializes in small group journeys on a private jet for example to Ambergris Cay in Turks and Caicos. They offer a variety of trips including Caribbean experiences (such as private islands, and other tropical destinations), sporting experiences (skiing, golfing, tennis opens and other non-F1 sports), Olympics Experiences, and Entertainment Experiences (film festivals, award shows, fashion weeks etc). They can also tailor-make group trips for clients according to their needs and interests.

Ambergris Cay is a unique destination because it has its own private airport with the longest runway in the Caribbean, and can accommodate jets as big as the Gulfstream G500, so they land right on the island, a few feet away from their bungalow or villa at the 5-star resort.

Everything is taken care of on the island as well, all gourmet food and cocktails, activities, boat trips, etc and when the trip is over you can just walk a few feet to the private jet. Completely seamless and convenient.

Jets 100 strives to provide an above-average VIP experience from start to finish with convenient worldwide access to private jet travel, invite-only red carpet events, and exclusive pricing. Monthly and yearly membership packages are available allowing up to eight members and eight partners or guests to travel.

Members can jet from seven departure points (Dubai, London, Los Angeles, Madrid, Miami, Monaco, and New York) and choose from over 40 packages. Each itinerary departs from private airports, allows for networking with other luxury travelers, and comes with white glove service.

The on-flight private jet experience includes select wines, champagnes, craft cocktails, and a personalized menu. Each jet can hold parties of at least 13 guests, making it an excellent option for large groups and for achieving luxury travel at a fraction of the standard rates for empty leg or charter flights.

Upon landing, private transfers pre-load your luggage and transport you directly to your accommodations of choice. Each package lists several five-star hotels to stay at offering luxury suites. For additional flexibility, alternative accommodations such as presidential suites and penthouses are available upon request. The concierge can attend to other tailored requests too.

Along with curated itineraries, the customer-centric brand allows travelers to customize trips by proposing a domestic or international destination of choice for the ultimate private travel

experience. Trip organizers help plan an itinerary, book accommodations, and charter aircraft at a reasonable cost.

Other luxury travel agencies also offer small group journeys throughout the world. These are excellent ways to intimately enjoy the marvels of the world that can be challenging as a family trip or too stressful in a traditional travel group, as these outings usually cap out at 20 people.

Popular expeditions include:

● Australia and New Zealand

● Galapagos and Machi Picchu

● Greece and Turkey

● Indochina and Angkor Wat

● Machu Picchu and Peru's Sacred Valley

● Patagonia

● Petra to the Pyramids and a Nile yacht cruise

● Spain and Morocco

● Taj Mahal and India

Depending on the itinerary, it's possible to fly private jets between multiple cities to cover a lot of ground during the destination to hit all the sights.

Luxury Cruises

Instead of booking the finest stateroom on a cruise ship, luxury sea and river voyages and private yachts are an excellent option for land and sea itineraries.

Voyages continually steam in European rivers, the Mediterranean, and Antarctica. For optimal pre- and post-cruise experiences, you can add private shore excursions to the itinerary with the assistance of local guides.

Chartering luxury private yachts through many reputable agencies worldwide is also possible. Destinations with private charters can include:

● Antarctica

● Caribbean

● Indian Ocean

● Middle East

● Northern Europe

● South Pacific

Yacht charters are a superb way to access remote islands, fishing villages, and maritime landmarks that are challenging to visit by land or air. They are also an excellent way to spend time on or in the water while easily partaking in private shore excursions.

Formula 1 Experiences

Jets 100 also specializes in Grand Prix experiences, which include private jet flights and enjoying time on the racetrack while emphasizing sustainability. The destination options depend on the travel time as it depends on where the next race is.

Some of the Grand Prix destinations in 2024 include:

● Sakhir, Bahrain (February 27 to March 5)

● Melbourne, Australia (March 19 to March 30)

● Shanghai, China (April 16 to April 27)

● Miami (May 1 to May 8)

● Monaco (May 22 to May 29)

● Montreal (June 4 to June 15)

● Barcelona (June 19 to June 26)

● Budapest (July 17 to July 24)

● Singapore (September 18 to September 28)

● Mexico City (October 23 to November 1)

● Las Vegas (November 19 to November 30)

● Abu Dhabi (December 5 to December 9)

Three-tier packages are available for each racing experience, including different seating areas and exclusive experiences. For example, the mid-tier and upper-tier packages typically include driver photo opportunities, guided track tours, and paddock access. All track experiences earn F1® Experiences Rewards to enjoy discounted ticket packages and hotel prices for future trips.

Along with year-round F1 experience packages that follow the racing circuit, Jets 100 can make luxury leisure and business travel easier and more affordable. The platform offers a shared flights feature where passengers can propose a destination and other travelers within the Jets 100 network can reserve a seat to split the costs. This customization minimizes travel inconveniences and presents more opportunities to network with business leaders and like- minded travelers.

Luxury Travel Subscriptions

The on-demand subscription model is available for luxury travelers through month-to-month memberships like the Inspirato Pass. This flexible membership provides access to approximately one million itineraries at five-star hotels, resorts, and vacation homes in over 100 destinations.

Unlike the traditional model of paying a monthly agency fee and paying extra for trip reservations, this pass is an all-inclusive option. Therefore, it’s possible to find luxury sweet spots at preferred pricing lower than the public rate.

The Inspirato Pass is currently $2,550 per month, and it can be worth it when your accommodations typically cost this much or more. You can cancel at any time when the membership exceeds your break-even point.

Personalized Vacation Packages

Luxury travel agencies such as Scott Dunn can build a personalized itinerary with the help of a local specialist based on the travel party’s size, age, and interests. You can experience private tours and curated accommodation in over 110 countries.

Since 1986, the agency has been creating journeys for adults, families with children of any age, and multi-generational households. Unlike some luxury travel organizations, it doesn’t require a monthly or annual membership fee plus extra fees for planning trips. Removing these barriers of entry can make this travel strategy substantially less frustrating.

Vacation options can include:

● African safaris

● Asian wildlife expeditions

● Cruise vacations

● Historical Europe

● Luxury beaches and private islands

● Private yachts

● Rail journeys

● Ski hotels

Guests with children between the ages of four months and 11 years may enjoy staying at all- inclusive resorts with exclusive Explorers Kids Clubs. Safe and premier childcare is available at destinations across the French Alps, Indian Ocean, Mediterranean, and United Arab Emirates.

Frequent travelers can work with a relationship manager to schedule various trips throughout the year with the invitation-only Scott Dunn Private program.

Premium Credit Cards

Bespoke packages may only be feasible for some trips. You can still enjoy a taste of luxury travel with a premium credit card that offers travel credits, concierge services, and exclusive access to events.

For many, The Platinum Card® from American Express is one of the most luxurious credit cards. It offers several flight and resort perks, and the Amex concierge can build a travel package. Cardholder benefits, including private jet credits, make these itineraries more enticing.

Also, premium cards usually provide exclusive cardholder experiences when the issuer sponsors a culinary, cultural, entertainment, or sporting event.

One such example is that cardholders of the Chase Sapphire Reserve® at Miami Race Week from May 2 to 5, 2025. Sapphire members can purchase VIP grandstand packages, VIP boathouse packages, and access to the trackside Chase Sapphire Lounge.

In addition to seasonal luxury travel packages, premium travel cards offer many ongoing benefits, such as complimentary airport lounge access, elite travel status perks, and trip cancellation or interruption insurance, which can improve the quality of many run-of-the-mill itineraries.

There are plenty of luxury private travel possibilities to choose from whether it's F1 racing, exploring historical landmarks, or exotic getaways. There are many travel dates, and the best packages tend to focus on notable events to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience in addition to being a tourist.

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The 5 best sightseeing tours of buckingham palace.

See one of Britain's top attractions on a walking, biking, bus or private taxi tour.

The Best Tours of Buckingham Palace

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On a visit to London , some of the top attractions are linked to the royal family. But nothing is quite as iconic as a visit to the one of the three official residences of the monarchy – Buckingham Palace . While it's only open to the public on select dates, you can relish in its beauty from the regal gates, snap a selfie and catch a Changing the Guard ceremony.

How to Tour Buckingham Palace

For about 10 weeks every summer (select dates from July 11 to Sept. 29, 2024), Buckingham Palace opens its elaborate gates, welcoming visitors to explore its lavish State Rooms, grounds and Royal Collection artworks. The Royal Mews is also open to visitors from March to October, showcasing the Royal Family's real working stables and ornate, historic carriages – including the Gold State Coach used for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Coronation in 2022.

If you aren't here at the right time, fear not; this extravagant, 18th-century royal residence is just as impressive from the outside, making it worth a visit any time of year. Check online for a current schedule of the Changing the Guard ceremony – when the red-and-black-clad Royal Guard marches toward the palace, accompanied by striking military music – and see a tradition that's been running for more than 300 years. Combine it with explorations in the surrounding area of Westminster to see London at its most quintessential.

You can explore all of this independently, of course – but if you're looking to dig a little deeper, hear about the king's coronation and uncover local secrets, consider a guided London tour . Insider experts can point out the best photo spots, take you to the must-see sights and show you the ins and outs of the area, while sharing knowledge of the country's royal history along the way.

There are tons of options out there, so where do you start? Based on local knowledge and traveler review sites, here are some of the most highly rated tours.

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Price: From $13 Duration: 2 to 3 hours Standout perk: Witness the pomp of the iconic Changing the Guard ceremony.

Watch the Royal Guard march toward Buckingham Palace as you witness this historic, quintessentially British spectacle on a tour of Westminster's highlights. Accompanied by a military band, you'll see the Old Guard (soldiers on duty) switch to the New Guard as they arrive at the palace from Wellington Barracks. Your guide will explain which regiment is which, before taking you on a guided walking tour past other world-famous, attractions, including Big Ben, Clarence House, the Houses of Parliament , St James's Palace and Westminster Abbey .

Recent travelers gave high ratings to the tour, saying guides were able to take them to the best photo spots for the ceremony while offering a wealth of historical and entertaining insight.

Tours leave at 10 a.m. and depart from the Victoria Palace Theatre. The outings end at Parliament Square.

Local tip: Look at the Horse Guards Clock on the Horse Guards Parade – the official entrance to Buckingham Palace and St James's Palace – to see a dark stain above the 2 (II, in Roman numerals). It marks the time King Charles I was executed outside the Palace of Whitehall in 1649, after being charged with treason.

Check prices & availability on:

Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle Tour

Price: From $161 Duration: 8.5 hours Standout perk: Get a rare chance to explore the State Rooms with Buckingham Palace tickets, and tick off two of the United Kingdom's grandest royal residences in one day.

This twin-castle tour offers the opportunity to enter Buckingham Palace and see its State Rooms, Royal Collection artwork and other treasures, with commentary from an audio guide. After you've toured the palace, you'll travel by coach about 25 miles west of London to Windsor Castle – the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and the family home of the monarchy for more than 900 years. Explore the castle's lavish State Apartments and grounds, and visit St George's Chapel – the burial place of Queen Elizabeth II alongside many other monarchs, and the spot where Prince Harry married Meghan Markle.

Recent travelers said the tour was a great opportunity to see inside both palaces. Several commented on the extensive art collection at Buckingham Palace, and many enjoyed hearing insights from the guides, although some complained about long lines.

The tour takes place from July through September on select Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and leaves from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m.

Local tip: Windsor Castle has its own Changing the Guard ceremony, as well as its own extensive art collection. The ceremony takes place at 11 a.m. on select days of the week.

Best of London Tour Including Tower of London and Changing of the Guard

Price: From $144; with optional London Eye or Harrods cream tea for an additional fee Duration: 9 hours Standout perk: You'll see many of London's key attractions in one day, and enjoy a river cruise thrown in for good measure.

If you want to combine a visit to see Buckingham Palace's Changing the Guard ceremony with stops at several other London spots, this is a great choice. The full-day trip begins at the UNESCO listed Tower of London where you'll have the chance to see the crown jewels.

From here, you'll visit Buckingham Palace to witness the famous pomp and pageantry of the ceremony and get the chance to admire the palace's impressive architecture from the outside. The day includes a tour of the elaborate St. Paul's Cathedral (not available on Sundays), before embarking on a boat tour of the Thames, passing key attractions including Tower Bridge and Shakespeare's Globe. The day also includes a photo stop at Westminster Abbey, where Prince William and Kate Middleton married in 2011, and a brief walking tour of Parliament Square. Travelers can choose to add a ride on the famous London Eye observation wheel (or opt for a quintessentially British cream tea at Harrods instead).

Recent travelers loved the tour and praised the guides as highly knowledgeable and entertaining. Many were impressed with how much they saw in a day and said it gave them a great introduction to London (although it's worth noting a few felt there was quite a bit of walking involved).

Tours leave from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m. and finish at the London Eye.

Local tip: If you fancy delving deeper into the Tower of London in your own time, book a ticket to see the Ceremony of the Keys. Dating back seven centuries, this nightly ceremony is when the castle gets locked up for the night, with a special exchange between the sentry and Yeoman Warder taking place at 9:30 p.m. between the atmospheric battlements – both eerie and magical.

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London: Explore the Parks and Palaces on a Morning Bike Tour

Price: From $37 Duration: 3.5 hours Standout perk: Get active on two wheels, and combine a Buckingham Palace stop with a visit to Kensington Palace and other royal sights.

This half-day guided cycling tour is a great option to get active on your London trip. You'll start at Kensington Gardens – the home of Kensington Palace, where Princess Diana lived with the now King Charles, and Queen Victoria's birthplace. From here, pedal to the Royal Albert Hall to check out this elaborate concert hall, opened by Queen Victoria in 1871. Afterward, cycle through Hyde Park and on to Green Park to reach Buckingham Palace, where your guide will regale you with little-known stories about the palace. Continue on to Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben as you take in some of the capital's key highlights, before returning to the Royal Parks.

Recent travelers raved about the tour and were impressed by the guides' knowledge. Many enjoyed the small group size and said the cycling was a good, leisurely pace, with plenty to see along the way, and iced tea and snacks included as a bonus.

The tour leaves from outside the main entrance at Hilton London Hyde Park. The recommended minimum age is 9 – you can pre-book junior bikes and child seats. While the bicycle and helmet for use during the tour are included, attraction entry fees are additional.

Local tip: If you've got time after the tour, it's well worth exploring Kensington Palace a bit more. Admire the elaborate, Georgian-era King's Staircase and the King's State Gallery with its fine art collection, see the Queen's State Apartments where Mary II would come to relax or welcome guests, and visit the Sunken Garden, once a favorite spot of Princess Diana's. After, enjoy afternoon tea or lunch at the Kensington Palace Pavilion amid the gardens.

The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a Black Cab

Price: From $482 Duration: 4 hours Standout perk: You'll see many of London's must-see attractions, and as it's a private tour, you can tailor the trip to your liking.

If you're after a private tour, this half-day trip in a classic London black cab is just the ticket.

You can choose to align your visit to Buckingham Palace with a Changing the Guard ceremony, and you'll get expert commentary from your personal taxi driver, who's also a registered tour guide. Alongside the palace, you'll pass must-see points including the Houses of Parliament, Downing Street, St James's Palace, the Tower of London, Piccadilly Circus, Shakespeare's Globe, Borough Market and Covent Garden , with options to stop along the way.

Recent travelers loved the tour and said guides were able to tailor the trip, stopping at spots both on and off the tourist trail and offering plenty of historical insight.

Your driver-guide can pick you up and drop you off at your hotel; or a central London location.

Local tip: Make a stop at Borough Market to try some of the best food in the city, with more than 100 stalls offering everything from Persian to Italian, alongside plenty of fresh produce.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Laura French is an award-winning British travel writer based in London. She grew up just outside the city and worked around the corner from Buckingham Palace for several years. She loves exploring the surrounding area, and used her own experience alongside online research to compile the roundup.

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Destination of the Year 2024: Costa Rica

Destinations.

• Central & South America
• Destination of the Year 2024

Introduction

Picture yourself on a white-sand beach, surrounded by palm trees. In the distance, surfers ride the breaking waves. Behind you rises a dense rainforest, where white-faced capuchin monkeys jump from branch to branch. Welcome to Costa Rica . 

I grew up in Costa Rica, and while I’ve lived all over the U.S., I'm always drawn back home. In the northwest, a dry tropical forest stretches down the Nicoya Peninsula. The laid-back beach towns that dot this part of the Pacific coast include Nosara, a mecca for surfing and yoga, and my favorite, the lesser-known San Juanillo, which still has the charm of a small fishing village. Farther south, Santa Teresa has an intriguing mix of cultures and superb international cuisine.

Venture inland and you’ll reach the Guanacaste pampas, with its sabaneros — Costa Rican cowboys — and rich pre-Columbian and colonial history. I love to walk through the town of Nicoya, one of the first Spanish settlements in the country and the home of the Chorotega people.

On the Caribbean side of the country, you’ll find the freshwater canals and serene rivers that meander through the rainforest of Barra del Colorado National Wildlife Refuge and Tortuguero National Park. In Limón, the vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture includes the sounds of calypso and an aromatic cuisine built around strong spices and coconut milk.

If hiking is your passion, try the Camino de Costa Rica, a 174-mile trail that cuts across the country: starting in Barra del Pacuare on the Atlantic coast and eventually winding into the Dota Mountains — the place where I grew up. 

Off the Osa Peninsula, in southern Costa Rica, is the Golfo Dulce, a sanctuary for Pacific humpback whales. The region is defined by mangrove swamps and Corcovado National Park, which protects one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world — and where it is possible to see a jaguar strolling along a white-sand beach.

I could go on and on. There is no single recipe for enjoying Costa Rica. Any road you take will likely bring the same result: a sense of wonder and a desire to return. We Costa Ricans are relatively few — the population barely exceeds 5 million. But we’re proud of our shared idea that things will always turn out fine and that life is, above all, beautiful.

— Ronny Rojas

Cover shot on iPhone 15 Pro Max

Cover Story

If 2024 is your year for retirement, then one, congratulations, and two, we've got a destination for you to consider moving to in your golden years. 

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