Journeys Worth Dreaming About

Search for an African honeymoon and you will be offered the same trip roughly forty times. A few nights on safari, a few nights on a beach, done.

A first safari involves more unfamiliar decisions than almost any other holiday. What to wear, what to tip, whether to take the tablets, what happens if it rains, and whether five o’clock in the morning is negotiable.

Few long-haul destinations ask so little of you on arrival. South Africa is under twelve hours from London on an overnight flight, and Cape Town sits one to two hours ahead of the United Kingdom time zone. You land at breakfast with no jet lag to work through and a full day already in front of you.

Africa’s best hotels are not simply five-star; they are places you cannot replicate anywhere else on earth. A suite above the Okavango floodplain, a riad in a royal garden, a villa on a private Indian Ocean island. This list of the best 5-star hotels in Africa is drawn from the properties our travel designers book, visit and return to, ranked not by thread count but by the experiences no other continent can offer.

A family safari is one of the few holidays that genuinely changes how children see the world. It is also one of the easiest to get wrong. Book the wrong reserve and you will spend your evenings worrying about malaria tablets; book the wrong lodge and your eight-year-old will be turned away from the game drive vehicle. This guide covers how to plan a family safari around the five decisions that matter most: the best age to go, where safety and malaria shape the choice, which country fits your family, when to book, and how to recognise a truly child-friendly safari lodge.

A medical retreat is not a holiday with a spa attached. Demand has never been higher: wellness tourism grew 13.8% last year according to the Global Wellness Institute, and the medical end of it, the doctor-led clinic stay, is growing fastest of all. The best clinics in Europe run diagnostic programmes that rival private hospitals, set in surroundings that rival the finest hotels, and what you get out of a medical wellness holiday depends almost entirely on what you do before you arrive. Treat the ten steps below as your medical spa checklist; they are the things we ask every client to consider before we confirm a booking.

Bhutan does not do mass tourism. The kingdom limits visitor numbers through its daily Sustainable Development Fee, which keeps the trails quiet, the festivals authentic and the experience unlike anywhere else in the Himalayas. It also means a trip here rewards careful planning. These are the five things to do in Bhutan that we believe no first itinerary should miss, tested by our travel designers and refined across the journeys we have planned for our clients.

The lot valued at €350,000 saw proceeds going directly to amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research

Andrew Bezhenar, CEO of Berkeley Travel named co-chair of amfAR.

This week, we have selected our top options, of restaurants located outside of London.

In an age where travel has become increasingly accessible, true luxury lies not simply in where you go, but in how perfectly the journey reflects who you are. At Berkeley Travel, we’ve spent decades perfecting the art of tailor-made travel, transforming dreams into meticulously crafted bespoke itineraries. But what distinguishes a truly personalised luxury travel experience from a standard holiday package? Below, we reveal the process behind creating journeys that feel uniquely, unmistakably yours.

Discover the ultimate romantic getaway with our curated guide to the most luxurious honeymoon experiences in the Maldives.

SURROUNDED BY A 4,200-ACRE
PRIVATE ESTATE OF ROLLING HILLS,
SWEEPING VALLEYS, VINEYARDS AND
OLIVE GROVES, OUR HOTEL IS SET IN A
BEAUTIFULLY RESTORED 10TH-CENTURY
CASTLE. ORIGINALLY OWNED BY THE
NOBLE BARGAGLI FAMILY OF SIENA, AND
ONE OF THE LARGEST PRIVATE ESTATES
IN ITALY, IT’S ONLY AN HOUR FROM
FLORENCE AND 30 MINUTES FROM SIENA
– IDEALLY PLACED FOR EXPLORING
TUSCANY’S MOST CAPTIVATING SIGHTS.

A DOLCE VITA LIFESTYLE AWAITS AT
OUR ICONIC PORTOFINO RETREAT.
ON THE HILLSIDE OVERLOOKING
PORTOFINO HARBOUR, BELMOND HOTEL
SPLENDIDO COMMANDS BREATHTAKING
VIEWS OF THE ITALIAN RIVIERA. GREAT
PERSONALITIES WHO HAVE STAYED
HERE RANGE FROM ARISTOCRATS, SUCH
AS THE DUKE OF WINDSOR, TO MUSIC
ICONS, INCLUDING PINK FLOYD AND
MADONNA, AND HOLLYWOOD STARS
FROM ELIZABETH TAYLOR AND AVA
GARDNER TO TOM HANKS, JENNIFER
ANISTON AND ADAM SANDLER.

SET IN THE HILLS ABOVE FLORENCE
WITH ENCHANTING VIEWS OVER THE
CITY, VILLA SAN MICHELE IS A WORK
OF ART IN ITSELF, ANCIENT FRESCOS,
CUTTING-EDGE STREET ART AND A
FAÇADE ATTRIBUTED TO MICHELANGELO.

In this week’s newsletter, we will be featuring a range of new art exhibition openings and places worth visiting this month.

It is one of our top choices restaurant to dine in, when visiting Mykonos. Spillia is situated, in a beautiful secluded bay, with access through boat and car. During the day, the restaurant offers a more vibrant atmosphere, with music and dancing. Giving a taste of life on a Mamma Mia set.  Just opposite the restaurant, there is a beautiful beach and a beach club to relax after lunch.

For the travellers, seeking  an adventure and a thrilling experience. We suggest becoming a pirate for a day and taking part in a scavenger hunt.

Our Lifestyle Assistant Laura has shortlisted her edit of the top five things to see and do during your getaway to Tulum.

We spent some time with Simon Binke to find out how he has been spending lockdown and what he is looking forward to over the coming months.

If you’re planning your next holiday and would like to know which is the best holiday location for each month of the year, then we’ve ensured that our list of the top travel destinations will help you.

With a clear focus on historical events and exciting milestones, top luxury holiday destinations in 2021 seem to demonstrate a trend towards cultural appreciation. 

For those hoping that next year will be the year in which they embark upon an unforgettable holiday experience, Berkeley Travel has created a shortlist of captivating countries which are anticipated to be the most sought-after holiday locations. 

Nothing can feel more romantic than sharing a kiss with your loved one as the clock strikes midnight. Feeling the excitement of another year together, this special night is the perfect time to reflect and take an intimate break. We’ve rounded up the very best of couples New Year breaks to help you make your decision.

Travelling can change the world, especially when we do it with the utmost care. We show you the hotels that embrace responsible tourism, support local communities and preserve and protect the environment, all without compromising on luxury.

Spanning Mer 1,200sqm, the Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre is an urban retreat in the heart of London. The Akasha has an exclusive Watsu pool, an 18m pool and a 300sqm gym, which is fully equipped with the latest technology, including LifeFitness equipment. Akasha is a Sanskrit word that encapsulates the core vision to harmoniously unite the four basic elements of nature: earth, water, fire and air

A glamorous icon of the 50s and 6os, Brigitte Bardot embodied the spirit of those decades. 

While filming a production around Nice, the famous actress and singer fell in love with the South of France. 

Located on the French Riviera, St Tropez existed for many years as an unassuming but quaint fishing village with a history stretching back to the Roman empire when, after their invasion in 3I B.C. , their citizens build many opulent villas in the area. 

Plan your next luxury skiing holiday in the most desirable and breath-taking locations around the world. We have prepared a collection of excellent hotels for the ultimate perfect piste break by the best slopes across seven continents.  

A rather unusual destination for New Year is Japan. The country of the Rising Sun is among the first ones in the world to welcome the New Year, and has a range of unique traditions to make the New Year celebration really special.

Following an investment of more than £400m, British Airways has rolled out an array of new offerings for passengers travelling in the airline’s premium cabins.

With perks both in the air and at the airport, the developments have seen improvements from serving the finest gastronomy in the air and offering the latest generation of Wi-Fi on both long and short haul flights.

The Maldives is one of the most breathtaking islands in the world. Made up of 1,200 islands, its crystal clear water and white sandy beaches have become the ultimate tropical paradise for those looking to escape and delve themselves in the culture and beauty of the island. Here at Berkeley Travel, we offer some of the most beautiful and bespoke luxury holidays in the Maldives. Whether you’re looking for a remote beach shack to a luxury resort, or a luxurious 5 star resort with a private pool, we take a look at some of the island’s most incredible hotel openings.

Set amongst the idyllic scenery of rural Oxfordshire, Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons is part of the Belmond group and offers guests a picturesque retreat alongside the gastronomic delights under the direction of Chef Patron, Raymond Blanc OBE.

A bohemian paradise in the heart of Mykonos, the Myconian Utopia takes a privileged location set amongst the cliffs overlooking the pristine sands of Elia Beach.

Whether you are looking for a city break or somewhere by the beach, a luxury resort in Europe with pool is at the forefront of most people’s wishes. Spending time relaxing by a hotel pool is a perfect opportunity for you to chill out, unwind and enjoy the soothing feeling of a good swim. A luxury pool is also a great opportunity for the family to enjoy time together in a popular leisure activity. Swimming pools also complement world-class spas, giving you the most relaxing of experiences. Around the world, there are luscious luxury resorts with stunning pools waiting to be experienced. Here is a list of our top 10 resorts with the most beautiful of swimming pools.

Flying in over the barren, unbeknown landscapes of the breathtaking lava plains on the Southeastern side of Iceland, it quickly becomes apparent as to why this haven is somewhat of a hotspot amongst the travel industry.

This season’s hottest travel destinations take us from experiencing the wonders of the Northern Lights to the exquisite luxury of the Seychelles. Along the way, why not experience the adventure of a trip on Seabourn, or the cultural delights of Sri Lanka?

Live it up in Israel’s most dynamic city at W Tel Aviv – Jaffa. In a setting where old meets new, the eclectic hotel is less than 10 minutes by foot from Jaffa Port and legendary beaches on the Mediterranean Sea. Follow the ramparts and explore the Old Town’s unique aesthetic and authentic markets full of craftspeople and their wares.

As we continue to welcome 2018 and begin to head into Spring, Berkeley Travel is proud present you with a curated edit of awarded hotels carefully handpicked by our experts.

From the picturesque mountains of Gstaad in Switzerland to the exotic backdrop of the Maldives – we’ve rounded up the finest hotels, resorts, spas and gastronomic delights from our insider knowledge.

To book your next dream getaway contact your dedicated Berkeley Travel Concierge today.

The first hotel to offer direct access to the Mont d’Arbois slopes, Four Seasons Hotel Megève offers myriad exceptional experiences this season.

Beyond our standard expectations, of a great hotel – well-appointed accommodations, refined service, great location and a knowledgeable concierge some of the world’s top hotels are looking to further heighten their client’s travel experiences by doubling as exhibition spaces or becoming art installations in themselves.

We hand pickd some of the greatest art spaces available globally hotels – indeed some of these hotels are a cultural destination in themselves, so a stay in them has the virtuous and rewarding benefits of visiting an art gallery – giving you time to relax, have a coffee and people watch whilst you enjoy great art.   

Whether you’re looking to take a much needed winter break before the end of 2017 draws in, or you want to experience a truly white Christmas in a country that looks like it belongs to a scene in a Christmas film, a luxury Winter adventure Holiday is for you. Imagine being surrounded by blankets of white snow, sparkling snowflakes and sumptuous hot chocolate as you warm up in a rustic log cabin with the love of your life. Picture spending the evening on a mountain with your closest family and friends as you wait to be immersed in the Northern Lights. Envisage skiing with your colleagues during a one of a kind corporate retreat.  A Winter Adventure or a City Break in the Winter is the perfect way to spend those cold winter months. Here are five of our favourite Winter adventure holidays for you to get ticked off of your bucket list.

At Berkeley Travel, we work with a wide range of luxury resorts and hotels all over the world – when something exciting happens, we’re just as excited about it. We’re proud to announce that one of our preferred partner resorts in Edinburgh, The Gleneagles, is due to open their own private member’s club in Mayfair.

As we draw ever closer to the end of the year and the beginning of 2018, the colder weather will begin to creep in. Our bikinis and sun lotions will be stowed away for another year and we’ll dream of the glorious than we sustained over the summer months. However, this being said, there is an alternative option. Winter sun holidays are more popular than ever before, allowing us to well and truly chase the sun all year round. If you’re tempted by the thought but are unsure where to go this winter, why not take inspiration from our top six winter sun destinations.

When it comes to company retreats or business socials, you’ll probably be met with employees groaning at the thought of sitting in a room with other businesses as they partake in an infuriating team building exercise, after trying to stay awake during one of the most patronising motivational talks they’ve ever experienced. Whilst team building activities are a great way to build a rapport with your team and strengthen workplace relationships, there are many other ways to do this and show your team just how valued they are, and a luxury company retreat is a perfect way to do this. From going skiing in The Alps to hiking up Machu Picchu or indulging in a lazy game of golf in the Bahamas, you can build your team’s relationships and trust by with the ultimate corporate retreat. Here are five perfect destinations to help you do so.

Spa and medical wellness breaks are the perfect way to explore the world and relax simultaneously. There’s no other feeling as luxuriate as the anticipation of going on a spa retreat. You get to leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life behind as you step into an oasis of calm and serenity. It’s no secret that a spa holiday is the ultimate way to indulge in some very special you-time, and take a break from the demanding world in which we live. Whether you’re thinking about going on a soothing spa break, or you’ve already got your heart set on one, Berkeley Travel have looked at the health benefits of a spa break to give you that little extra push.

If you know you’ve got an upcoming luxury spa break, then the anticipation of waiting for it is almost as curative as the trip itself. Whether you’re going on your own to indulge in some me-time or you’re spending a few days relaxing with your nearest and dearest, the benefits of a spa break are endless. Jacuzzis help to heal common aches and pains of the body, massages are renowned for relieving stress from everyday life, therefore improving sleep and promoting mental health. Luxury wellness retreats are the perfect way to step away and take a breather from the demanding world we live in. Berkeley Travel, luxury travel agent, have picked their favourite six luxury spas across the world from which you won’t ever want to come back.

Miami is an exciting city where celebrities and party goers flock to experience the finer things in life. Florida’s best known city has a population of 20.6 million people, and it is bursting with excitement and beauty. With all year round heat, luxury restaurants, independent boutiques and phenomenal bars to visit, Miami is the ultimate luxury holiday destination. Whether you’ve been before and want to visit Miami for another city break, or you’re experiencing it for the first time, here are five things you need to do whilst in the city that never sleeps.

When discussing Barbados, you can’t help but picture yourself with your toes buried in the  bright white sand, clinking cocktail glasses with your loved ones. With it’s name derived from ‘the bearded fig trees’, Barbados embodies all things exotic and naturally stunning. Completely surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the island boasts the only all white sand beaches in the region which are complemented by the Caribbean’s crystal blue waters that lap its shores, making it the ideal destination for luxury beach holidays.

The Romanos resort at Costa Navarino, a fifty minute drive through fragrant olive groves and lemon trees from Kalamata Airport in the Peloponnese on mainland Greece gives a whole new meaning to the holiday cliche ‘getting away from it all’. This gorgeously gleaming white knock-out of an escape brings all the tranquillity and exclusivity of the Maldives or the Seychelles without an iota of the long distance schlep!

Close your eyes and imagine being surrounded by smells of fresh tropical fruits and coconut. The rainforest makes a breathtaking backdrop as you stroll down the Chao Phraya river, watching people haggle with the vendors on the  floating markets slowly drifting by

‘If heaven is as good as this, I sure hope they have some tee times left.’
LEE TREVINO

Europe has an abundance of some of the greatest, greenest, and most luxurious golf resorts you will ever set your eyes upon, whether you going on a corporate holiday or family holiday. Located in stunning locations across the globe, simply looking at these courses will make you feel like you’ve scored a hole-in-one.

In the Northeast of Thailand a beautiful candle festival trails through the quiet provinces, echoing this beautiful country’s religion and culture. The festival marks the beginning of Buddhist lent – during the wetter season Buddhist precepts are kept by the monks in the monastery for three months. For this quarter of the year there is no electricity and the only source of light and heat are the candles placed around the temple.

Located just off of the coast of South Malaysia, Singapore has truly reinvented itself as one of the world’s most luxurious holiday destinations. With its sumptuously tropical climate, ever-increasing financial power and multicultural population, Singapore is one of Asia’s most attractive destinations.

Full of exhilarating sights and sounds, this city stands tall and proud with seemingly endless skyscrapers and gravity defying architectural feats on every corner. Retail lovers will instantly fall in love as they’re emerged in Singapore’s consumer paradise; anything you could ever dream of and more can be found here.

“Lake Como is a rare gem. The lights, the atmosphere, the mild climate, the charm of the ancient villas and villages, and the love stories born on these shores, and the charm of the works of art, and of course the originality of the local cuisine, all helped create the legend of this unique place in the world.” – Valentina de Santis, proud owner & CEO

Whether you’re a spirited holiday maker, intrepid traveller or you want the perfect proposal to kickstart the next chapter in your life, a destination proposal in a romantic setting is a flawless way to ask your future life partner for their hand in marriage. A holiday proposal is becoming a popular way to pop the question, with couples going on city breaks, beach retreats or adventure holidays to set the scene for their next milestone.

Barbados is the easternmost island in the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean. First occupied by the British in 1627, and remained a British colony until they got internal autonomy in 1961. Barbados is the definition of paradise. With white sandy beaches, serene blue seas, fresh seafood and tropical plants, Barbados is an island of dramatic natural wonder.

Taking time out of life’s busy schedule to relax is something that should be self indulgent and thoroughly enjoyed. There’s no better way to do this than booking a luxury holiday to a destination you know will deliver the highest quality experiences and long lasting memories. However, with so many destinations to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start when looking for your ideal location. Berkley Travel’s handpicked luxury holiday destinations will provide you with the perfect starting point.

Your luxury beach holiday should be spent in a destination that offers an idyllic landscape and a plethora of culture. Costa Navarino is located in the Greek region of Messinia in South West Peloponnese. The Mediterranean island of Costa Navarino is the perfect holiday destination for those who want to soak up the sun in an unspoiled landscape, and be immersed in the authentic culture and history.

Up Date – “ENQUIRE NOW” start from 11

When I was kindly invited on board the Silver Spirit by Silversea, I was slightly apprehensive as to what to expect being my first cruise.
However, the itinerary was great as it included some of my most desired destinations all in one trip.