When we plan travel or share travel stories, we typically start with a laundry list of places and iconic hotels. However, those travel stories and adventures that keep on resurfacing around the holiday dinner table or at happy hour are the ones that connected to you on a deeper level. You learned something new, whether a cocktail recipe or a dance step. Perhaps you even discovered something about yourself or your loved ones that you never knew before your experiences on the road.
You’ve undoubtedly heard this quote before, “It is the journey and not the destination that matters.” So, let’s change things up a bit with planning a getaway that is more about the experience and journey than only the destination. These four Luxury Link picks are bound to expand your horizons.
Finding Shagri-la, an Earthly Paradise
Explore the unknown in the Tibetan countryside by stretching yourself. Whether through meditative nature walks, visiting ancient temples, or viewing the earthly paradise via horseback, the serenity envelops you. Many have said that the Yunnan Province of China is Shangri-la or a heavenly hideaway. Indulge in this Chinese utopia at the Banyan Tree Ringha. The experience of the secluded farmhouse cottages is OMmazing.
Banyan Tree Ringha
The Perfect Classroom
With the epic backdrop of the Caribbean’s crystal waters, Mexico’s Riviera Maya is classroom without walls, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you choose to explore its caves, swim in its cenotes (limestone sinks holes), or stay along the miles of precious beaches, take advantage of this perfect classroom. If you have always wanted to polish your Spanish, take a dance lesson, or learn to sail, Azul Beach Hotel Cancun is your sublime combination of luxury and learning. For those that need more inspiration to turn those two left feet into twinkle toes, sample an array of the finest tequilas at Agavero and salsa the night away. Otra tequila por favor!
Azul Beach Hotel Cancun
Spiritual Sunrise
Along the banks of the Siem Reap River in tropical Cambodia, you will discover the rich heritage of the Khmer culture as well as a sunrise for your soul. To witness this unforgettable golden sunrise, take a tuk-tuk before dawn to the ancient temple of Angkor Wat. Although you may be mesmerized by the spiritual orange sunrise sky, beware of the mischievous monkeys. They are curious and notorious for tricking visitors. Pamper yourself with a stay at Belmond La Residence of Angkor. Its tranquil pool and spa will inspire reflection and a shift in perspective. As a finale, treat yourself to dinner at Circle, where Chef Ramos educates about the local culture through all of your senses. Bon appétit!
Belmond La Residence of Angkor
Becoming One with Nature and Maori Culture
Discover the geothermal wonders and become one with nature in the ancient forests of Rotorua, New Zealand. Witness what the local Maori culture calls the mauri (life force) and wairua (spirit) around each corner. From its giant silver ferns to geothermal waterfalls, nature’s brilliance will humble you. Return to your private oasis, Hamurana Lodge, to experience a true Kiwi adventure. Just a moderate stroll from the lodge, you arrive to source of Hamurana Springs perfect for a picnic, trout fishing, or just listening to nature’s soundtrack.
Hamurana Lodge
From Maori culture and spiritual sunrises with monkeys to finding Shangri-la on horseback, travel is like chicken soup for the soul. As it is the journey and not the destination that matters, what will you choose to feed your soul?
