…quieter corners of the country where lingering lunches, sun-drenched landscapes, and a softer pace of life still prevail.

Increasingly, clients are looking to their SmartFlyer travel advisor to ask not just where to go in Italy, but how to engage with the country in a way that feels more intentional, immersive, and away from the crowds. While we’ll forever be fans of Italy’s perennial favorites, the reality is that peak summer season in the country’s most popular destinations equates to visitor numbers surging into the hundreds of thousands. And it’s in these moments where we look to lesser-considered spots—toward alpine wellness sanctuaries in the Dolomites, volcanic islands off the coast of Sicily, slower rail journeys through the Tuscan countryside—where lingering lunches, sun-drenched landscapes, and a softer pace of life still prevail.

Coastal Bliss, Minus the Crowds 

The Tyrrhenian Coast is Calling

Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Tyrrhenian,” some would argue that Maratea feels like Amalfi before the crowds arrived. At Santavenere, classic Italian glamour unfolds across lush gardens, private beaches, and sprawling sea-view terraces filled with antique charm. Days are spent boating past hidden caves and rocky inlets along Basilicata’s rugged coastline before returning for sunset aperitivo overlooking the Mediterranean. It’s all the romance of an Italian seaside escape—without the frenzy that now defines much of peak-summer Amalfi.

The Aeolian Island for Slow Summer Days

Scattered off the northern coast of Sicily, the Aeolian Islands are a volcanic archipelago where black sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, and sleepy fishing villages replace the polished energy of Italy’s more scene-driven summer destinations. Among them, the island of Salina remains blissfully low-key. At Capofaro Locanda & Malvasia, mornings begin with swims in volcanic coves while evenings revolve around aperitivo overlooking the island’s rolling Malvasia vineyards. It’s the kind of place where travelers come to disappear for a few days and inevitably leave plotting their return. 

Italy’s Softer Alternative to Capri

Long beloved by Italians themselves, Ischia offers a softer, slower alternative to Capri. At Mezzatorre Hotel & Thermal Spa, volcanic thermal waters, pine forests, and dramatic cliffside views replace buzzy beach clubs and packed marinas. The rhythm here feels wonderfully old-school Italian summer. For something slightly more relaxed and quietly romantic, San Montano offers sweeping views across the Bay of Naples alongside natural thermal pools carved into the hillside. Here, days unfold between boat rides, leisurely spa afternoons, and long lunches overlooking the sea—proof that some of Italy’s best coastal escapes are still the ones operating at their own pace.

For the Design Enthusiast 

Intimate Retreats Worth Obsessing Over

Some of Italy’s most memorable stays aren’t the largest or most lavish, but the ones that feel deeply personal from the moment you arrive. Deep in the countryside outside Bologna, Elizabeth Country House offers just eleven rooms blending contemporary interiors with the slower rhythms of rural Italy. Days here are spent exploring nearby villages, indulging in Emilia-Romagna’s legendary culinary scene, and retreating back to a property that feels equal parts chic retreat and beautifully lived-in home. Meanwhile, on the shores of Lake Garda, Villa Feltrinelli has just twenty rooms, set amid cypress trees and richly layered old-world interiors. Though entirely different in aesthetic, both satisfy the boutique hotel lovers’ appetite for a sense of place.

The Umbrian Estate Everyone Wishes They Knew About Sooner

Often overshadowed by Tuscany, Umbria is quietly emerging as a design-forward destination where restored castles, centuries-old palazzos, and deeply considered interiors feel woven into the landscape. The intimate Palazzo Petrvs brings a contemporary perspective to the region through its moody, artfully restored interiors amidst the medieval streets of Orvieto. A stay at Reschio Estate—a restored 1,500-year-old estate—feels like stepping into an impossibly chic Italian fantasy. With candlelit wine cellars, horseback rides through the Umbrian countryside, saltwater pools, and lingering dinners that stretch late into the evening, here, it’s all about sinking into an Umbrian State of Mind.

To Get in Touch with Nature 

A Classic Alpine Escape in the Dolomites

For travelers craving a more traditional mountain retreat, Gardena Grödnerhof Hotel & Spa offers old-school Dolomites charm in the storybook village of Ortisei. Summer days are spent hiking dramatic alpine trails while winter revolves around the famed Dolomiti Superski circuit. Back at the hotel, Michelin-starred dining, cozy wood-paneled interiors, and an expansive spa create the environment that encourages travelers to fully settle into mountain living.

Tuscany Without the Tour Buses

Tucked within the Tuscan countryside, Castello di Vicarello offers a version of the region far removed from crowded wine tours and tourist-packed hill towns. A stay at this family-owned gem means days anchored by horseback riding, cooking classes, truffle hunting, and poolside afternoons overlooking vineyards and olive groves that glow golden by sunset. For a truly memorable experience, work with your SmartFlyer travel advisor to arrange a day exploring the stunning Argentario coastline of Tuscany with a boat tour and lunch on Giglio Island.

For the One seeking Wellness (Reimagined)

Italy’s Most Transformative Wellness Retreat

Set just outside Rome, Palazzo Fiuggi has quickly become one of Europe’s most sought-after wellness destinations thanks to its combination of cutting-edge medical programming and grand-hotel elegance. Guests come for longevity treatments, therapeutic mineral waters, and highly personalized wellness journeys—but leave equally enamored by the property’s sweeping countryside views, frescoed interiors, and a deeply restorative pace of life. 

Wellness Above the Clouds

Italy’s next wave of luxury wellness isn’t unfolding on crowded coastlines, but high in the mountains. Perched above the clouds in South Tyrol, FORESTIS was designed entirely around its surrounding landscape: fresh mountain air, sunshine, spring water, and uninterrupted views of the Dolomites. Guests come here to fully slow down, whether through forest walks, spa rituals, or simply watching the light shift across the peaks. Don’t miss the Tree Circle Ceremony for ultimate rejuvenation, followed by an afternoon cycling through the ample saunas and cold plunges—our favorite is the one outside.

For the Slow Traveler: Italy by Rail and Sea

The Return of Golden-Age Rail Travel

La Dolce Vita Orient Express is reviving the glamour of train travel through its immersive regional routes, vintage-inspired interiors, and itineraries designed to encourage travelers to linger a little longer. Rather than rushing between cities, the experience reimagines Italy as it was meant to be enjoyed: slowly, beautifully, and preferably with a spritz in hand. In tandem with Belmond’s celebrated rail journeys through the Italian countryside, these itineraries invite travelers to embrace a slower rhythm of travel—one where long lunches, cinematic landscapes, and aperitivo hour are just as important as the destinations themselves.

Mediterranean Cruising, Reimagined

Set to debut in June 2026 as the world’s largest sailing yacht, the Orient Express Corinthian promises a far more intimate take on Mediterranean cruising. Guests will move between quieter Italian ports, hidden coves, and seaside villages while life onboard revolves around long lunches, sunset aperitivo, and nowhere to be in a hurry. In place of the scale and pace associated with larger ships, being aboard the Corinthian is about stopping in quieter ports, hidden coves, and seaside villages. Work with your SmartFlyer travel advisor for enhanced amenities onboard sailings through the Italian Riviera, Amalfi Coast, Sicily, and Sardinia.

The Yacht for The Curious

For travelers drawn to the romance of the Mediterranean but not the traditional cruise experience, House of Nine offers a more private, design-forward way to experience Italy by sea. Its carefully curated yacht itineraries prioritize understated luxury and immersive coastal exploration, allowing guests to hop between volcanic islands, sleepy harbors, and hidden beaches at a wonderfully unhurried pace. 

Aman’s Most Anticipated Arrival Yet

Looking ahead, few openings are generating more anticipation than Amangati, Aman’s forthcoming yacht set to sail through the Italian Riviera beginning in 2027. Known for redefining quiet luxury on land, Aman’s expansion into yachting signals a continued shift toward highly personalized, experience-driven travel—this time unfolding entirely at sea along one of Europe’s most cinematic coastlines.

Long-Term Stays, Italian Style

Source A Villa and Sink In

Rather than racing through multi-stop itineraries, many travelers are increasingly opting to settle into Italy for weeks—or even months—at a time. The appeal is obvious: slower mornings, neighborhood espresso bars, local markets, and the chance to experience Italy more like a resident than a visitor. In our opinion, the best way to do this is with a villa rental. The secret? Some of the best will never be listed online. Your SmartFlyer travel advisor is armed with partners across Italy who have relationships spanning the most desirable villas.

Living Like a Florentine

Set along the Arno River in the heart of Florence, Lungarno Apartments offer all the ease of a private residence paired with the polish of a luxury hotel stay. Travelers can settle into daily routines—morning cappuccinos, afternoons wandering artisan workshops, evenings spent cooking with market finds—while still feeling immersed in one of Italy’s most culturally rich cities.

Roman and Milanese Holidays, But Make Them Residential

For travelers splitting their time between Italy’s cultural and fashion capitals, Rocco Forte Houses in Rome and Milan deliver an elevated residential experience that feels worlds away from a traditional hotel stay. Stylish, spacious, and deeply connected to their surrounding neighborhoods, these apartment-style accommodations are ideal for travelers looking to fully settle into city life rather than simply scratch the surface. Similarly, the recently opened Casa J.K. Place, Roma acts as your exclusive Roman home with just twelve apartments offering complete privacy.

For the Traveler Who Still Believes in Shoulder Season

Italy’s Most Glamorous Ski Town Beckons for Summer

Long synonymous with alpine glamour, Cortina d’Ampezzo continues to evolve well beyond ski season alone. The forthcoming Le Graal Cortina, alongside the arrival of Ancora Cortina, signals a new era for the Dolomites as travelers increasingly embrace the region year-round—for summer hiking, wellness escapes, crisp mountain air, and slower moments far removed from the intensity of Italy’s coastal hotspots.

Justice for Venice in Off-Season

As Italy’s popularity continues to surge, seasoned travelers are increasingly rethinking not only where they travel—but when. Rather than centering trips exclusively around July and August, many are discovering the beauty of Italy during quieter moments throughout the year. In Venice, winter brings cinematic fog rolling through empty canals. Across southern Italy, spring and early autumn offer warm temperatures without the intensity of peak-season crowds. We love a stay at Il Palazzo Experimental, or the newly opened Airelles Palladio, Venice is sure to make for a soft landing, no matter the time of year.

Ready to plan your next trip to Italy? Contact your SmartFlyer travel advisor.

The Ritz-Carlton was one of the first major hotel brands to successfully translate its experience from land to water…

Long considered a benchmark for refined service and timeless hospitality, The Ritz-Carlton was one of the first major hotel brands to successfully translate its experience from land to water—without compromising what made it iconic in the first place. Rather than adapting classic cruise conventions or chasing scale, the brand approached yachting as an extension of its hotel philosophy: intimate, design-forward, and deeply attuned to how modern luxury travelers want to move through the world.

The result is The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, a fleet of three superyachts—Evrima, Ilma, and Luminara—that collectively helped redefine what travel at sea can look like for a new generation of travelers. Not cruises in the traditional sense, but floating boutique hotels designed for guests who value space, service, and a slower, more intentional way of seeing the world.

A Disruptor That Changed the Conversation

When The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection launched in October 2022, the idea of a hotel brand operating at sea was still novel. Cruising, for many well-traveled clients, still carried outdated perceptions: crowds, rigid schedules, and experiences designed for mass appeal. The Ritz-Carlton didn’t attempt to modernize that model—it bypassed it entirely.

…it proved the concept could work for travelers who never thought cruising was for them.

Instead, the brand exported what it knew best, designing suites that feel more like hotel rooms rather than cabins, matched by service that is intuitive rather than performative. Plus, dining that stands on its own merit, paired with itineraries designed to linger, not rush. That early clarity of vision matters. As more luxury hotel brands now enter the maritime space, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection stands apart not just because it was one of the first to bring a hotel brand to sea—but because it proved the concept could work for travelers who never thought cruising was for them.

One Philosophy, Three Distinct Yachts

There are no casinos. No water slides. No crowded decks competing for attention.

While each yacht in the collection has its own personality, all three share a common DNA. Across the fleet, the experience is unmistakably Ritz-Carlton: polished without being too formal, elevated without excess, and designed around the idea that true luxury is felt, not announced. There are no casinos. No water slides. No crowded decks competing for attention. Instead, the focus is on proportion, flow, and ease—spaces that invite guests to settle in, rather than move from port to port at a rushed pace.

Evrima: The Proof of Concept

As the inaugural yacht in the collection, Evrima laid the foundation for everything that followed for The Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection. With the smallest guest count in the fleet at 149 suites and a passenger capacity of up to 298 guests, she delivers the most intimate onboard experience—one that feels closer to private yachting than cruising.

Evrima appeals particularly to travelers who value subtlety over spectacle.

The atmosphere aboard Evrima is calm and residential. Public spaces are designed for lingering, whether that means working quietly between ports, reading on deck, or enjoying a drink without distraction. The scale allows for a deeper connection between guests and crew, and service quickly becomes intuitive rather than transactional. Evrima appeals particularly to travelers who value subtlety over spectacle. For villa loyalists and boutique hotel devotees, the experience feels familiar in the best way: refined, personal, and unhurried.

Where Evrima Sails

Evrima’s itineraries are built around access and atmosphere—destinations where her size is an advantage rather than a limitation. In the Mediterranean, Evrima visits both iconic coastal stops and smaller ports that larger ships can’t reach, often anchoring offshore and tendering guests ashore in a way that feels more like arriving by private boat than disembarking from a ship.

In the Caribbean, itineraries emphasize rhythm over rigidity, with marina days that allow guests to swim, paddleboard, and relax directly off the yacht, alongside easy island-hopping. Evrima also sails French Polynesia, where her scale allows for anchoring in crystalline lagoons and lingering in destinations that reward slowness. Here, the line between yacht and destination blurs entirely—days are dictated by light, water, and inclination rather than a rigid schedule.

Ilma: Refined Scale and Elevated Wellness

If Evrima was the proof of concept, Ilma represents the refinement phase. Larger and more expansive at 226 suites and up to 448 guest capacity, Ilma offers increased deck space, enhanced wellness facilities, and a brighter, more contemporary design sensibility than her predecessor. Interiors lean European in feel and airy, with an emphasis on openness and flow throughout the yacht.

The onboard spa, fitness spaces, and dedicated wellness programming feel integrated into daily life…

Wellness plays a more prominent role aboard Ilma, making her particularly appealing to travelers who prioritize movement, balance, and restoration while traveling. The onboard spa, fitness spaces, and dedicated wellness programming feel integrated into daily life rather than positioned as optional extras. Despite her increased size, Ilma retains the uncrowded, residential feel that defines the collection. The experience remains relaxed and personal—just with more room to breathe.

Where Ilma Sails

Ilma focuses on destinations that benefit from longer stays and scenic arrivals. Her Mediterranean itineraries span Italy, France, Spain, and the Adriatic, with schedules designed to keep guests in port well into the evening. Late departures allow for lingering lunches, spontaneous exploration, and early dinners ashore—luxuries often unavailable on larger ships.

In the Caribbean, Ilma’s sailings prioritize ease and flow, appealing to travelers looking for warmth, water, and effortless days at sea without sacrificing comfort or service. Ilma is particularly well-suited to repeat guests—those who loved their first experience with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and are ready to expand it will find themselves right at home.

Luminara: The Fully Realized Expression

The newest and most expansive yacht in the fleet, Luminara is the culmination of everything The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has learned so far at sea. Size-wise, she measures almost exactly in line with Ilma at 228 suites and a capacity of up to 452 guests. With expanded dining venues, a significantly enhanced wellness footprint, and thoughtfully designed social spaces, Luminara feels confident and fully realized. Interiors lean richer and more atmospheric, while still maintaining the clean lines and quiet luxury the brand is known for.

Despite her larger size, Luminara retains the hallmark uncrowded feel of the fleet. Guest flow is intentional, service remains attentive without being intrusive, and spaces are designed to accommodate both social moments and solitude. Luminara is the yacht for travelers ready to think globally—to use the sea not just as a setting, but as a seamless way to connect multiple destinations.

Where Luminara Sails

Luminara’s itineraries are the most globally ambitious in the collection. She sails the Mediterranean, covering classics like Italy, Spain, and the French Riviera, while maintaining the brand’s signature pacing—think: long days ashore and unhurried evenings back on board.

For travelers who want to explore complex regions without the friction of constant packing, transfers, and hotel changes, this approach offers a compelling alternative.

Beginning in mid-2026, Luminara’s itineraries expand into Asia, with sailings that include ports of call in Japan, Southeast Asia, and beyond. For travelers who want to explore complex regions without the friction of constant packing, transfers, and hotel changes, this approach offers a compelling alternative. Asia by yacht allows guests to move fluidly between cultures while returning each night to a familiar, beautifully designed environment—an especially appealing proposition for well-traveled clients seeking depth without the challenges that come with constant packing and unpacking.

Cruising Designed for the Anti-Cruiser

Perhaps the most telling success of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is the audience it attracts. Many guests step aboard having never cruised before—and never planning to prior to booking their maiden voyage. They are design-conscious, service-oriented travelers accustomed to luxury hotels, private villas, and thoughtfully curated itineraries. What draws them in is not the idea of cruising, but the promise of waking up somewhere new each day without sacrificing comfort, autonomy, or style.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is one of the few luxury cruise experiences that meaningfully integrates with a major hotel loyalty program, allowing guests to earn Marriott Bonvoy points on their sailing.

The experience rewards those who value time as much as destination. There is no pressure to follow a rigid schedule, no rush to secure space, and no spectacle competing for attention. Instead, days unfold at a human pace—dictated by curiosity, appetite, and mood rather than announcements or programming. For Marriott loyalists, there is also a rare layer of familiarity at sea. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is one of the few luxury cruise experiences that meaningfully integrates with a major hotel loyalty program, allowing guests to earn Marriott Bonvoy points on their sailing. For points-savvy travelers, this quietly enhances the value proposition, turning a journey at sea into future stays across the Marriott portfolio—without ever feeling like a loyalty play.

It’s this combination—hotel-caliber service, design-forward spaces, intentional pacing, and the subtle reassurance of a trusted brand—that continues to convert even the most self-proclaimed non-cruisers. For many guests, the decision isn’t about trying cruising at all. It’s about choosing a new way to travel that still feels unmistakably like home.

Your Next Sailing Awaits

The fleet is not a novelty, but a long-term extension of the brand—one that continues to evolve with each new vessel and itinerary.

As luxury hospitality continues to expand offshore, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection remains the reference point. Not because it was loud or disruptive—but because it was intentional. By leading with service, design, and a deep understanding of its audience, The Ritz-Carlton didn’t just enter the space; it legitimized it. The fleet is not a novelty, but a long-term extension of the brand—one that continues to evolve with each new vessel and itinerary.

With three yachts now sailing across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, French Polynesia, and Asia, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection stands as both a pioneer and a benchmark. A reminder that when hospitality is done right, even the open ocean can feel like home.

Ready to set sail? Contact your SmartFlyer travel advisor to chat  itineraries.

“You can feel the family across the hotels and this creates a certain warmth and atmosphere; it creates a sense of belonging,” says Sir Rocco Forte.

Rocco Forte Hotels is the Forte family. From development to design and everything in between, Sir Rocco Forte, his sister Olga Polizzi, and his children, Lydia, Irene, and Charles, have each left their mark on the forward-thinking brand. “You can feel the family across the hotels and this creates a certain warmth and atmosphere; it creates a sense of belonging,” says Sir Rocco Forte. Join us as we pull back the curtain behind the check-in desk to meet the Forte family and in turn, discover the magic they’ve created across their collection of exquisite European properties.

First Things First: The Design

Since acquiring his first hotel project, The Balmoral in Edinburgh, Sir Rocco Forte has always had the family legacy in mind. His sister, Olga Polizzi, Deputy Chairman and Director of Design at Rocco Forte Hotels carefully considers the history and culture of each hotel’s location as the brand expands in service of that legacy. “My father was incredibly hard-working; I learned that from him,” she says. “But I got the attention to detail from my mother. Today, that attention to detail has resulted in creating a sense of home in every property Rocco Forte puts its name behind.” The collection has innovatively ‘un-done’ conventional hotel design as it has evolved, in turn creating an irreplaceable ambiance for its guests.

Sir Rocco Forte and Olga Polizzi grew up learning the hospitality ropes from their father, Lord Forte at Trust House Forte, which later became Forte Hotels. Over the last twenty-five years and counting, the two have collaborated to translate what they learned first-hand from their parents, beginning with design. “In fact, my grandfather had incredible taste, considering that he grew up in a tiny village of 300 inhabitants up in the hills in between Rome and Naples. My aunt worked in the design department [at Trust House Forte] too, and she and my mother were always redoing their houses. So the design thing was always there,” Polizzi shares.

As a family-run brand, Rocco Forte Hotels has the ability to make each of its properties as unique as the team members behind them. Polizzi’s design ethos is rooted in her belief that design must reflect not just sophistication and discerning taste, but the genuine warmth of the welcome offered to guests. “A hotel room must always be welcoming,” she shares emphatically. “Soft lighting, good bathrooms with space to put down wash bags, and concessions to space. Comfort comes first.” But this doesn’t always mean brand-new furniture and fixtures. Polizzi buys goods at auctions and antique fairs to blend in more mature items with those that are fresher and modern. She elaborates, “I find it quite harsh in a space to have everything new, even in a new build the odd antique can fit in well. It’s the same with fashion in a way; a mix of old and new often looks good.” Her recent collaboration with Belgian-American designer Diane von Furstenberg at the Hotel Amigo in Brussels embodies the perfect mix of colors and textures with a bold zebra rug and a collection of DVF’s striking artwork.

But it’s not only antiques that Polizzi is sourcing. She aims to weave in the flair of a destination by seeking out its artisans and local craftspeople. In London at Brown’s Hotel, the recently launched Sir Paul Smith Suite combines hand-selected artworks with classic British heritage in his signature quirky style. Whether it’s Laudomia Pucci’s bold textiles at Hotel Savoy (the younger, more gadabout sister of the collection) in Florence or handmade tiles from Bagheria for Villa Igeia in Palermo (the elegant, but cooler cousin who always has the perfect vintage dress to wear to a black tie soirée), local designs “are what give the hotels their sense of being rooted int he place they’re in,” she says. No matter which property you’re speaking with Polizzi about, it’s as if they are people with their distinct personalities because that’s very much the ethos with which she designs them.

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry

“For us [siblings], having on both sides these Italian grandparents who really cared not just about the food but the hospitality, was a lifelong learning experience.”

The Forte family has shared a love for food around their dinner table for generations, so the chance to extend a culinary passion to their properties in London, Rome, Florence, Sicily, Brussels, Munich, Berlin, Edinburgh, and beyond has been a natural evolution for the family-owned brand. “For us [siblings], having on both sides these Italian grandparents who really cared not just about the food but the hospitality, was a lifelong learning experience,” Lydia Forte says. “Sunday lunch with them was always at least twenty or twenty-five people, with a kids’ table on the side. It was always delicious, always fully laid up, and my grandmother always in the kitchen, overseeing the food.”

The art of eating and drinking well is one that Lydia Forte, Group Director of Food and Beverage, focuses on with fervor. After training across some of London’s top restaurants, she’s made exploring the ways eating and drinking can define, enhance, and evolve the Rocco Forte experience her singular pursuit. Lydia operates from the belief that there are few elements of a hotel that connect you to a setting and the people in it so immediately as a delectable meal being prepared with precision. “In general, it’s clear that people want to be healthier,” she says; all Rocco Forte Hotels menus have vegetarian and gluten-free options and a myriad of choices.” 

Today, her role encompasses everything from operations to nutrition across the hotels. She works in partnership with Fulvio Pierangelini, Rocco Forte Hotels’ Creative Director of Food. The award-winning Roman chef and onetime restaurateur also oversees the vast gardens at Verdura Resort as a part of the brand’s commitment to local produce. “He has taught me so much about food,” Lydia shares. “Some say he’s like a food whisperer…When you go to his apartment in Rome, he might have just a few vegetables and somehow with what seems like nothing, he’ll conjure up a meal of dreams.”

This same spirit of innovation is applied to menus across every Rocco Forte hotel restaurant or bar, including its forthcoming hotel in Milan’s golden triangle, The Carlton, set to open in 2025. Lydia is collaborating with Pierangelini and the brand’s luminary bar consultant, Salvatore Calabrese, on several venues. “The whole of the ground floor is for dining and drinking,” she says. “We want it to feel like it’s a bar and restaurant with rooms, a place for locals as much as out-of-town guests. While the restaurant will lean towards more of an evolved menu, there will be Italian crudo and fish with a bit of Asian inflection,” she says. The bar will lean classically Milanese, with Pierangelini shaping a menu of regional, easy classics.

“And of course, it’s different in every hotel—the authentic DNA of the place will be in each one,” Lydia affirms. The restaurants appeal to locals, and guests alike. Whether it’s locally made marmalades, produce from the family’s organic farms at Verdura in Sicily, or salmon smoked in-house in Edinburgh, guests immediately know where they are if only relying on their plates to tell them the story.

Wellness Abound: Irene Forte Style

An intrinsic component of a Rocco Forte hotel stay is a visit to its spa. But wellness isn’t a concept contained to the walls of a treatment room. It starts with cutting-edge spas and fitness centers, but wellness extends into organic in-room amenities. Under the helm of Irene Forte, Wellness Consultant and Founder of Irene Forte Skincare, Rocco Forte Hotels have revolutionized their treatment menus, therapist training, facilities, and the overall guest experience as it relates to wellbeing.

In 2009, Irene spent a year working at Verdura Resort, the then-newly opened Rocco Forte hotel on Sicily’s southwest coast. She was immersed in the Sicilian culture, the healing properties of its products, and the palpable energy of the island. The transformative experience – in which she deepened her understanding of the power of nature on mind, body, soul, and skin – led her to develop what is now known as the Rocco Forte Spa concept, as well as her own line of esteemed products.

What is today known as Irene Forte Skincare was born from the fruits (literally) of Verdura Resort’s extensive gardens. Irene studied the properties of citrus, pomegranate, pistachio, and olive oils to create a skincare line based on the natural bounty. This “Mediterranean Diet for the face” isn’t just beautiful and sustainable packaging – it’s clinically approved for sensitive skin. Every product in the Irene Forte line undergoes extensive clinical trialing. “The hibiscus night cream performed the best of any natural product Doctor Ferri had seen tested,” at EffigiLab, Irene says.

…the design of the spas is under the helm of Irene’s vision, too with a lean towards airy and modern, splashed with subtle references to local artisanship.

You might be wondering, how does the skincare line impact Rocco Forte guests? Well, its shampoo, conditioner, and body soap will be sprinkled all over your room or suite’s shower, to begin with. But you can also take advantage of the line’s facial products in the spa – which will inevitably lead to you purchasing some of the full-sized bottles on your way out of the spa (does it sound like we’re speaking from first-hand experience?). Speaking of spas, the design of the spas is under the helm of Irene’s vision, too with a lean towards airy and modern, splashed with subtle references to local artisanship as a nod to her aunt’s signature touch.

Irene debuted the first Irene Forte Spa at Villa Igiea perched above the sea and featuring two stories of indoor-outdoor relaxation zones, treatment suites, a beauty salon, and a Technogym-equipped fitness center overlooking the harbor. Four more Rocco Forte spas have since rebranded Irene Forte with the full offering of treatments and products including Rome’s Hotel de Russie and Hotel de la Ville, Masseria Torre Maizza in Puglia, and Verdura Resort in Sicily.

The Future of Rocco Forte

Hotels in development that are to join the Rocco Forte family remain a key part of the path forward. Aiming to honor the family’s illustrious legacy, Charles Forte took on the role of Director of Development at just thirty years old. But if you look back at his first experience working for the family business as a fourteen-year-old waiter at Brown’s Hotel in London. From there, at age eighteen, he toggled between the reception desk and prep-chef stations in the kitchens of Dorchester Collection’s Principe di Savoia in Milan. Ultimately, after university and a couple of years in commercial real estate, he shifted to working alongside his sisters, father, and aunt at Rocco Forte Hotels.

Alongside Sir Rocco Forte, Charles Forte is responsible for mapping out new destinations and exploring both geographic and operational expansion for Rocco Forte Hotels. Due to the success of Rocco Forte House in Rome, there are upcoming iterations of the same residential concept in Milan, due to open in 2024, and Florence. The forward momentum is driven not just by profession for Charles, but ultimately, legacy.

“We are excited to open the two Milan properties and Costa Smeralda in Sardinia in the next couple of years…”

When asked about what he’s working on these days, Charles enthusiastically dives into a series of projects that are sure to surprise even those fully immersed in the hospitality space. “We are excited to open the two Milan properties and Costa Smeralda in Sardinia in the next couple of years. Looking ahead, opportunities in European cities and areas of beauty, as well as Italy, the USA, and the Middle East are progressing nicely, too.” No matter which direction you look, the future of this family-owned brand is filled with promise.

Ready to plan your next stay looked after by the Rocco Forte family? Contact your SmartFlyer travel advisor to get started.

As One&Only’s first-ever U.S. property and its debut alpine resort, to say there’s a great deal of anticipation surrounding this opening would be selling it short. This year-round sanctuary will invite guests to soak in a private hot tub with panoramic mountain views, stargaze from a secluded observatory, dine at a celebrity chef-helmed Japanese-style steakhouse, and have direct access to Big Sky Resort’s Madison Base. And all of that without losing sight of the untamed beauty that makes Montana magic.

Getting to Big Sky

Getting to Big Sky is refreshingly straightforward: Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) offers nearly thirty nonstop connections from major U.S. cities, and it’s an easy one-hour drive to the resort. Private jet travelers can opt for FBO access at Bozeman or Yellowstone Airport, with SmartFlyer travel advisor-arranged flights and transfers ensuring a seamless arrival. For those incorporating Big Sky into a larger Western road trip, it’s five hours from Jackson, six from Salt Lake City, and just over three from Missoula.

Where the Mountains Meet the Moonlight

One&Only Moonlight Basin sits in the heart of Big Sky, Montana—a year-round playground for skiers, hikers, anglers, and anyone with an appetite for adventure.

The beauty here lies in the juxtaposition—you’re close enough to world-class skiing and Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders, yet so tucked away in the forest that the only lights at night are the ones above you. One&Only Moonlight Basin sits in the heart of Big Sky, Montana—a year-round playground for skiers, hikers, anglers, and anyone with an appetite for adventure. Perched at 7,000 feet in the private Moonlight Basin community, the resort is encircled by Lone Peak, Fan Mountain, and the Spanish Peaks, with two private alpine lakes anchoring the property. And for those seeking a National Park adventure, Moonlight Basin sits just an hour drive to Yellowstone National Park’s West Entrance and ninety minutes to the North Entrance.

The One&Only Difference

Globally recognized for one-of-a-kind properties in some of the world’s most inspiring locations, One&Only Resorts has mastered the art of hospitality without losing an ounce of authenticity. Moonlight Basin is no exception—in fact, it’s a milestone. Not only is it the brand’s first alpine retreat, it’s also its first foray in the U.S., landing it on our very own 25 Hottest New Hotels Open in 2025 list in addition to Robb Report, Vogue, Travel + Leisure, AFAR, and Condé Nast Traveler’s “most anticipated openings” lists.

Spread across 240 acres of protected wilderness (and surrounded by over 17,000 acres of permanently conserved land), the resort comprises four unique lodges, nineteen freestanding cabins, seventy-three guestrooms and suites, and a collection of four- to six-bedroom Private Homes. All accommodations feature floor-to-ceiling windows, soaking tubs with cinematic mountain views, and outdoor hot tubs—because in Montana, the scenery is as much an amenity as the spa treatment itself. 

Speaking of which: the One&Only Spa is a modern sanctuary that will uplevel any check-in. With eight treatment rooms, a sauna and steam room, a cutting-edge fitness center, and an indoor pool that opens to the outdoors in warmer months, you could carve out an entire wellness day to enjoy the spa.

Architecture That Disappears Into the Pines

Internationally acclaimed firm Olson Kundig designed One&Only Moonlight Basin with a light touch—one that lets the landscape lead. Low-slung structures combined with a palette of timber, steel, glass, and rough stone will have guests feeling at one with nature. And perhaps most notably, the intentional decision to keep rooflines below the treeline ensures that in just a few years, the entire resort will be visually absorbed into the forest. 

The gondola is its own architectural statement: designed by the mind behind Porsche, this heated, glass-walled ride connects the Sky Lodge directly to Big Sky’s Madison Base in just five minutes. It’s also your gateway to the Madison 8, the world’s longest eight-seat heated chairlift, and a dedicated kids’ ski school—meaning family ski days are as seamless as they are scenic.

All Seasons of Adventure

One&Only Moonlight Basin is built for year-round discovery. In winter, skiing and snowboarding are obvious draws, but the resort’s private Nordic trails, snowshoe routes, and cozy après-ski experiences make it just as appealing for non-skiers. Imagine finishing the day with a hot toddy at Dear Josephine Lounge or slipping into your private hot tub as snow drapes the peaks.

Summer is equally magnetic in Montana. Guests can hike or mountain bike through wildflower-carpeted trails, paddleboard or swim in the resort’s alpine lakes, or, try their hand at fly-fishing on nearby rivers. For a quintessential Montana evening, head to Moonshack, the resort’s speakeasy-style whiskey bar hidden in the woods, for rare pours and poker under the stars. And speaking of stars, the remoteness of this locale makes for some of the clearest, most vibrant stargazing on Earth. The resort’s private Observatory offers expert-led sessions year-round, turning the night sky into your evening entertainment.

Culinary Storytelling in the High Country

When it comes to dining, guests can dip into Big Sky’s restaurant scene, or, on days when hanging back on property is more appealing, options abound. The resort boasts six dining concepts, including Wildwood, The Landing for alpine-inspired American fare, Dear Josephine for cocktails, a hidden whiskey shack in the woods, Akira Back–helmed Japanese-style steakhouse, and poolside or in-room dining for ultimate convenience.

Montana might not be the first place you’d expect to find a world-class Japanese steakhouse, but One&Only Moonlight Basin is rewriting that script. Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Akira Back, the signature restaurant fuses alpine ingredients with Japanese precision—think local Wagyu alongside miso-infused Montana trout. 

Wildwood, an all-day dining destination, celebrates Montana’s farmers and foragers, while The Landing pairs elevated alpine cuisine with panoramic slope views. Meanwhile, Dear Josephine Lounge is the place for artful cocktails and small plates, while Moonshack delivers a dose of rustic irreverence—the kind of place where the whiskey list is as impressive as the stories you’ll hear around the table. 

Who It’s For

…One&Only Moonlight Basin is for travelers who crave exclusivity without isolation, luxury without pretense, and nature without compromise.

Big Sky suits those from many walks of life—One&Only Moonlight Basin is for travelers who crave exclusivity without isolation, luxury without pretense, and nature without compromise. It will draw well-heeled couples from New York, San Francisco, London, and Dubai looking for a fresh, stateside alpine escape; multigenerational families seeking an active yet indulgent holiday; and executives who prefer board meetings by the fire to boardrooms. It’s also poised to attract adventure-seekers who value guided excursions in wilderness, as well as friends groups planning nature-immersed celebrations.

Private Homes offer up to six bedrooms, gourmet kitchens, and expansive outdoor living spaces for groups…

While couples will find no shortage of romance here, One&Only Moonlight Basin is equally adept at hosting multigenerational escapes, executive retreats, and milestone celebrations. Private Homes offer up to six bedrooms, gourmet kitchens, and expansive outdoor living spaces for groups who want the comforts of home with the perks of a luxury resort. Fire pits, hot tubs, and seamless ski access make them a natural choice for family gatherings. For your youngest travelers, the KidsOnly Club runs year-round, giving younger guests their own adventures—from wildlife tracking to ski lessons—while adults indulge in spa treatments, long lunches, or a few extra runs on the mountain.

Go Big and Try Big Sky

Montana has always been about wide-open spaces, big skies, and a sense of freedom you can’t quite bottle. Whether you’re headed to Big Sky to ski the slopes, hike to hidden lakes, or simply watch the stars from your hot tub, One&Only Moonlight Basin offers something increasingly rare: the chance to be fully present in a place where nature takes the lead. 

At One&Only Moonlight Basin, mornings might start with an espresso in your private cabin as the alpenglow hits Lone Peak, and end with a Japanese whisky under a canopy of stars. In between, the hours are yours—whether you spend them skiing, spa-ing, fishing, or simply breathing in the alpine air. This is the American West, reimagined for those who’ve seen it all.

…but it still feels like a secret that discerning travelers are desperate doesn’t get spoiled when too many others find out about it, and unavoidably, flock.

There’s a bit of alchemy required for a destination to be developed enough to cater to the luxury market while avoiding becoming too commercial, and in turn, losing its authenticity. Mallorca currently sits in a sweet spot; with each passing summer season, it’s being built up just a touch more, but it still feels like a secret that discerning travelers are desperate doesn’t get spoiled when too many others find out about it, and unavoidably, flock. We’ve delayed crafting this Mallorca guide for just that reason – but ultimately, at SmartFlyer, we don’t gatekeep. So, after three consecutive summers returning to this beloved island, it’s finally time to round up some of its most longstanding hotels, brand-new properties, beaches worth trekking to, and meals you won’t want to miss.

How to Get to Mallorca

It’s never been easier to get to Mallorca from New York City. In 2022, United Airlines launched the first nonstop from the U.S. to the Spanish island; from May to September, the flight operates three times per week directly from Newark to Palma. Curious about which days the flight operates? By working with SmartFlyer Air Team, you’ll have all the details sorted for you. And with thirty highly sought-after United Polaris® business class seats, you can wake up well-rested and start your vacation in style. And while we’re of the camp that believes Mallorca isn’t to be rushed and could constitute an entire trip on its own, Madrid, Barcelona, or its brother Balearic islands of Ibiza, Menorca, or Formentera are all easily accessible if you are combining this Mallorca guide with the Spanish capital.

Best Hotels in Mallorca

With Mallorca being the largest of the Balearic islands, many clients opt to do a split stay between two – or even three – properties.

Answering the question, “Where should I stay in Mallorca?” could warrant a five-part spin-off to our Mallorca guide. But in an attempt for brevity (never easy for me, but particularly when it comes to hotels), I’ll do my best to sum up the differences between a handful of frontrunners. With Mallorca being the largest of the Balearic islands, many clients opt to do a split stay between two – or even three – properties. By opting for a combination stay, you can get the best of the capital of Palma, the western, and southeastern sides of the island. And while this list represents a selection of some of our clients’ favorites, there are a couple notable builds happening in the years ahead, including Mandarin Oriental coming in 2026.

But first, a bit of geography! One of the main myths we like to dispel when evaluating hotel options for Mallorca is that while a handful of properties boast water views, very few luxury hotels on the island are located directly on the water. Active travelers relish the lush terrain Mallorca offers, and in turn, this means that many of the best hotels in Mallorca are nestled into mountainous backdrops versus the beaches you may be picturing. Luckily, it’s not all about being seafront, per se. Let us break down the basics, and as always, we recommend consulting with your SmartFlyer travel advisor to decide which of these spots best suits your specific style.

Hotels Within Thirty Minutes of Palma

Can Bordoy Grand House & Garden

If you’re the type of traveler who seeks a mix of city and beach, we recommend dedicating a couple of nights to staying in downtown Palma. With only twenty-four suites each masterfully renovated within a 16th-century building, Can Bordoy is teeming with character and undeniably a frontrunner in Palma. We love how it feels like an oasis right within the walls of the city thanks to its roof terrace, charming garden, outdoor pool, and its restaurant (the first upscale plant-forward spot in Palma). As a bonus, the overgrown Jumanji-esque greens that crawl the walls of its dining room will make you feel like you’re lost in a movie scene.

Book it for: We love Can Bordoy for those who want to get acclimated to Mallorca through time spent in an oasis in the heart of Palma with easy access to ample shopping and restaurants.

Cap Rocat

The sense of arrival at this fortress is distinctly regal. Cap Rocat exudes exclusivity and prides itself on being one of the Mediterranean’s most private and secluded resorts. As a National Monument and Heritage Asset sanctioned by the government, the restoration of this fortress building was a rigorous project spearheaded by its owner in collaboration with Mallorcan design studio, Antonio Obrador. Aside from the fact that you can hear a pin drop in this tranquil oasis, one of the most notable selling points of a stay at Cap Rocat is its positioning directly on the sea. Each room category is distinct, so be sure to work with your SmartFlyer travel advisor to ensure that you’re set up with the view you’ve been dreaming of; for example, the highly-sought after Sentinel category offers complete seclusion, a private pool, and sweeping sea views.

Book it for: We love Cap Rocat for honeymooners who want the ultimate splurge, from direct sea views to endless spa treatments and long, lingering lunches at The Sea Club.

Kimpton Aysla Mallorca

Located just about twenty minutes from downtown Palma, IHG Hotel & Resorts’ first foray into this Balearic island is a sanctuary of modern calm. This progressive take on a wellness resort makes for an ideal launching point on the western side of the island to explore. Rooms were designed by Guillermo Reynés, a local who infused traditional Mallorcan flair with contemporary living; upgraded room categories also feature private gardens for the ultimate relaxation. Or, if you prefer a more active stay, it’s a short drive to strike up a tennis match at Mallorca Country Club or a round of golf at Golf Santa Ponsa. Your easy access to Palma means you can have dinner with a short drive to town, or keep it chill on the terrace at Kimpton’s pan Asian restaurant, SABA.

Book it for: We love Kimpton Aysla Mallorca for someone looking for something fresh with an approachable price point.

Grand Hotel Son Net

Approaching the terracotta-pink façade of Grand Hotel Son Net through its palm-tree-lined drive, you get a sense you’re about to arrive somewhere special. This freshly opened property is a sister hotel to the Andalucian favorite, Finca Cortesin, and promises the same discreet approach to Spanish hospitality. With only thirty-one rooms, including six poolside cottages located away from the main house, the design of each accommodation is distinct. Interior designer Lorenzo Castillo meticulously restored Son Net to include bespoke Gastón y Daniela fabrics that match the ornate wallpaper, antique Castilian furniture, ornate mirrors, and fireplaces. And if you can pull yourself away from the rich interiors, a gorgeous pool lined with cabanas overlooking the mountains awaits.

Book it for: We love Son Net for the traveler seeking an ultra-private boutique property that just so happens to be the newest kid on the block. Additionally, this hotel plans to remain open all winter for a cozier off-season stay.

Hotels in Western Mallorca

La Residencia, a Belmond Hotel

Certain hotels leave an indelible mark on your heart; La Residencia, a Belmond Hotel is sure to be one of them. Nestled in the Tramuntana Mountains with a sightline to the sea, here, guests have the chance to dig into the creative soul of Deià from the moment they set foot on property. With a connection to the artistic history of the property and “Artists in Residencia” program, guests have the opportunity not only to walk through the gallery or meet with its legendary curator Cecile Sheridan, but also get to know some of the brilliant young minds in residence over cocktails on the lawn. As far as accommodations, we swoon over the colorful Designer Suite by Matthew Williamson, complete with a private pool. Before dinner at El Olivio, be sure to snag a spot on La Residencia’s gorgeous sailboat for sunset on the sea.

Book it for: We love a stay at La Residencia for multi-gen families, friend groups, or couples seeking easy access to a quaint town where they can walk about or hike down to Cala Deià.

Jumeirah Port Sóller Hotel

Visible from the water, Jumeirah Port Sóller Hotel is perched on a soaring cliff just beyond a hub that’s home to many of the island’s fishing and leisure boats. The sprawling hotel grounds house one hundred and twenty-one rooms, each with a private balcony or terrace, prime for admiring the view. For wellness lovers, the Talise Spa offers treatments with products sourced from citrus, almond, and olive oil trees. Guests can spend their days relaxing in one of two pools on property, or easily get down to Port Sóller to charter a private yacht, which will allow you to access nearby coves.

Book it for: We love Jumeirah for those looking for access to multiple pools, a spa, and a location directly on the water for a more moderate nightly rate than some others on the island.

Son Bunyola

Tucked into the twists and turns of the Tramuntana Mountains, Son Bunyola sits on a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its protected positioning was the culprit of immense restrictions around how the land could be modified, so, after years of being unable to secure building permits, Sir Richard Branson sold the land. Branson repurchased the property in 2015 to reinvest in his dream of adapting it into a hotel, and in the summer of 2023, the twenty-six-room hotel made its debut to great anticipation. Amenities include a ninety-two-foot infinity pool, tennis courts, and access to a pebble-strewn beach within walking distance. While the growth of the almond, olive, and grape trees is very much still in progress, this passion project by one of the world’s hospitality icons is sure to impress.

Book it for: We love Son Bunyola for its landscape and ocean views across many of its room categories, combined with its villas for larger families.

Hotels in Southeastern Mallorca

Can Ferrereta

Just about a 45-minute drive east of Palma, Can Ferrereta is located in the town of Santanyí. Its location is the perfect launching point to some of the island’s best beaches…but more on that later in our Mallorca guide. This thirty-two-room and suite property is the sister hotel to Sant Francesc in town (another client favorite) and was conceptualized with the same laid-back approach to luxury. Tucked along a sleepy street behind an unassuming door, the untrained eye would never know what they are missing by walking past this meticulously remodeled 17th-century mansion. But once you step inside to find its peaceful interiors, you know you’re in for a treat. After a morning spent exploring the nearby beaches, come back to Can Ferrereta’s cypress and olive tree-lined pool to laze about before a candlelit dinner on the property’s dreamy courtyard.

Book it for: We love Can Ferrereta for a group of friends who are looking to beach hop, or couples seeking a bit of a boutique option where they can luxuriate in slow afternoons at the sun-soaked pool.

Hotels in North and Eastern Mallorca

Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor

Freshly opened, this brand-new property is tailor-made for those craving a blend of heritage and high-end polish. Set on the storied Formentor peninsula, Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor pairs a pristine private beach with interiors that honor the property’s 1929 origins while feeling fresh and modern. Expect Mediterranean elegance at every turn: airy rooms with sea views, a spa rooted in wellness traditions, and a dining program that spotlights local ingredients in truly elevated ways. The setting—surrounded by pine forests and lapped by turquoise waters—feels like a slice of untouched paradise, perfect for those who prize privacy without sacrificing world-class service.

Book it for: Guests seeking an iconic yet contemporary Mallorca experience, complete with Four Seasons’ signature hospitality, a private stretch of sand, and access to the island’s most dramatic natural landscapes.

Es Racó d’Artà

This boutique property has managed to stay relatively under the radar, and its loyal clients would like for it to stay that way. But we wouldn’t be doing our job if we didn’t share a bit about the oh-so-special Es Racó d’Artà. The brainchild of one of Mallorca’s most noteworthy architects, Antoni Esteva, and his designer friend Jaume Danus, this farm estate is where soothing minimalism meets well-being. Today, the property acts as a haven for those wanting to hike, do morning meditation, take part in medicinal workshops, enjoy homegrown-wine tastings, or peruse the on-property art gallery. Accommodations are outfitted in a pleasing palette of creams, grays, and husks, ensuring your surroundings imbue island calm. With only thirty-four rooms, including twenty-one casitas offering two and three-bedroom accommodations, you’re ensured to be tucked into an ultra-private oasis. 

Book it for: We love Es Racó d’Artà for wellness junkies and against-the-grain travelers who seek out independent hotels with a true focus on the mind-body connection.

Mallorca Guide to Getting Around

For most, a car rental is essential to reaching the multitude of beaches, charming towns, and even boutique wineries and olive farms.

For avid cyclists, the challenge of mounting Mallorca’s mountainous terrain is appealing, so don’t overlook a more active itinerary or bike rental for a portion of your stay if that’s your cup of tea. For most, a car rental is essential to reaching the multitude of beaches, charming towns, and even boutique wineries and olive farms. We recommend booking your car rental as soon as you lock in flights and your hotels with your SmartFlyer travel advisor; particularly during peak season, availability can be limited. When deciding if you will book a manual or automatic vehicle, keep in mind that roads are extremely windy, narrow, and often hilly. Most beaches won’t have a sanctioned parking lot, but will require you to squeeze into tight street parking; so base your decision on your comfort level driving stick and plan accordingly. As always, we recommend insuring that rental!

Mallorca Guide to Beach Hopping

And here’s where it gets extra fun! Mallorca is made for exploration, and getting into its seemingly endless array of beaches, called calas, is a key part of any trip to the island. Depending on where you’re staying, you’ll want to devise a beach plan accordingly. Consider departing from your hotel just after breakfast to beat the crowds both for parking and setting yourself up with a spot at the beach. 

The key to a truly remarkable beach day in Mallorca is knowing that the most remote beaches are the most difficult to reach; oftentimes, there isn’t parking nearby, so you’ll have to plan for comfortable attire. But if it’s serenity you’re after, the trek is always worth it! And on the note of privacy, keep in mind that doing a boat day will grant you access to the most elusive beaches on the island. Sa Calobra and Cala Tuent are two examples of tucked-away gems that are best reached by boat. But, we’re getting ahead of ourselves…

Northern Beaches in Mallorca

• Ca’n Picafort: Stretched out before a handful of hotels, the beach is the longest and sandiest in the north. Expect to find all beach services, including sunbeds for rent, umbrellas, watersports, shops, bars, and restaurants.

Northeastern Beaches in Mallorca

• Cala Mesquida: With few buildings in sight, Cala Mesquida is beloved by locals, including what some would refer to as “naturists.” Anchored by dunes, the long stretch of white sand beach will leave you plenty of space to rent one of their double loungers.
• Cala Torta: Getting here on an unmarked road is half the adventure. With nearby hiking and an open-air shack primed for snacking on the fresh catch of the day, a visit here is likely to be one of your island highlights.

Eastern Beaches in Mallorca

• Cala Mondragó connects to Cala s’Amarador: Located within an extensive nature reserve, Cala Mondrago is ideal for jumping off rocky outcrops into the azure waters. If it’s too busy at Mondragó, keep walking along the coast to s’Amarador where you can rent loungers if you need to get out of the sun.
• Cala Varques: One of the beaches to target if you are looking for ultimate solace, plan to walk about fifteen minutes to Cala Varques, knowing it’s worth the effort. Also, plan to bring your snacks and drinks because there are no services here, just unspoiled white sand split between two coves.

Western Beaches in Mallorca

• Cala Deià: A switchback single-lane road carves its way from Deià town to Cala Deià. Whether you’re hiking down from La Residencia or have secured street parking, this pebbled-lined beach is an island favorite. There are two chiringuitos serving up simple dishes here, including Instagram-famous Ca’s Patró March, the more elevated of the two.
• Magaluf: Every island has to have its wild side, and on Mallorca, it’s Magaluf. This mecca for Brits is infamous for drawing a more party-loving crew, and this white sand beach is dotted with resorts and beach clubs.
• Portals Vells: If you’re looking for a three-in-one special, the bay at Portal Vells is home to three small beaches, each boasting a unique character. This is the spot where many yachts choose to anchor, an indication that it’s one of the prime spots in our Mallorca guide.

Southern Beaches in Mallorca

• Cala Llombards: A sandy beach located in the southeast of Mallorca, Cala Llombards has sweeping cliffs that just beg adventure-seekers to jump. This one gets busy as the day wears on, so the earlier, the better.
• Cala s’Almunia connects to Calo des Moro: After you park on the street, be prepared to walk a fair bit to get to Cala s’Almunia. You can set yourself up here or keep walking to reach Calo des Moro, which is most certainly worth the trek.
• Cala Pi: Located just a few kilometers from the prehistoric village of Capocorb, this wide sandy beach is waiting for you beneath a steep set of stairs. You can expect fine sand and a cute beach bar below!
• Es Trenc: One of the largest and most famous beaches in Mallorca, Es Trenc is marked by miles of turquoise waters met by white sand. If you’re looking for a more traditional beach, this long stretch provides you with ample space to set up a chair while being surrounded by dunes and salt flats.

Best Restaurants in Mallorca

Mallorca is a place that begs for you to leave your Resy armor stateside and lean into spontaneity.

If you’re anything like us, most trips start and end with one question: “Where are we eating?” But the desire to experience the best restaurants in Mallorca must be met with an open mind; the island is deceivingly large, so if you’re building an itinerary around beach hopping, make that your priority and let the restaurants come second. Also, keep in mind that many restaurants on Mallorca require a credit card on file to make a reservation. So, while it’s not necessarily in our nature to recommend going to a destination without dining reservations, Mallorca is a place that begs for you to leave your Resy armor stateside and lean into spontaneity.

Mallorca Guide: Lunch Hotspots

• Assaona (near Palma): If you’re looking for a true beach club in Mallorca, your options are going to be more limited than those in neighboring Ibiza. But Assaona is a solid choice just outside Palma for lunch with your feet in the sand and a cold bottle of rosé at your side. 
• Ca’s Patró March (in Cala Deià): Yes, this is the one you always see on Instagram. And yes, it is worth the hype. Unfortunately, reser­vations are nearly impossible to snag; but, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to get a table. For a few summers running, we’ve been able to get a table by showing up before the crowds that assemble for the first seating at one o’clock. 
• Sa Foradada (in Deià): Known for its location built into a cliff, Sa Fordada is ideal for a seaside lunch with epic views. Don’t be shy to ask for the first-row seating right by the water and order some of the delicious wood-fired paella! Note, it’s closed for the 2025 season but plans to reopen in 2026.
• Sea Club at Cap Rocat: Diners arrive both by land and by sea; a typical afternoon here is epitomized by several boats anchored while their passengers enjoy a salt-encrusted fish washed down by a bottle of wine (or two).

Mallorca Guide: Must-Do Dinners

• Barretes Restaurant at Ca’s Xorc: Located in a boutique hotel with magnificent views, this is your spot for a more upscale dining experience. In addition to local produce, we especially love that most of the meat and dairy are sourced from the hotel farm.
• Canela (Palma): This small restaurant offers traditional Mediterranean dishes and some creative Mediterranean and Asian fusion options. There’s an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients here.
• El Camino (Palma): For traditional Spanish tapas, this stylish eatery by Majorcan chef Cristian Riviera makes for an ideal lunch. The tomatoes here taste like literal candy, and don’t leave without dessert.
• El Olivio at La Residencia: If you’re celebrating a special occasion, a dinner under the olive trees at El Olivio is one of the most coveted reservations on the island. A number of tables are kept for hotel guests only, but outside guests are encouraged to inquire at least two months in advance of their desired reservation.
• Es Roquissar (Valldemossa): A solid spot in this cute town set between Palma and Deià, here, you’ll have ample vegetarian options amongst the many small plates. There are just a handful of tables (we love the ones on the terrace) where you can await creative dishes being churned out by the young Argentinian chef.
• Nama (in Deià): If you’re craving cuisine that’s a bit more multi-cultural, Nama is your go-to with a Southeast Asian-influenced menu. Its location overlooking the town of Deià is nothing short of charming.

Ready to begin planning your Mallorcan escape? Contact your SmartFlyer travel advisor to get started.

…a hospitality concept created around Strength, Inclusive, Recovery, and Originality—SIRO Boka Place isn’t just a place to sleep, but a sanctuary to reset.

Nestled along Montenegro’s awe-inspiring Boka Bay, this design-forward destination blends fitness, recovery, and nature into a highly considered experience tailored for high-performers, biohackers, and mindful movers alike. As the debut flagship of the SIRO brand—a hospitality concept created around Strength, Inclusive, Recovery, and Originality—SIRO Boka Place isn’t just a place to sleep, but a sanctuary to reset. Think: soundproofed, tech-enhanced rooms engineered to fight jet lag, in-house experts guiding everything from HIIT classes to breathwork, and rooftop social spaces serving kombucha alongside no-proof cocktails. Whether you’re traveling for restoration or adrenaline, this hotel was built to meet your energy—and elevate it.

From custom nutrition plans to curated outdoor excursions that make the most of Montenegro’s rugged coastline, SIRO invites travelers to treat wellness as both a science and an adventure. At its core, it’s a forward-thinking retreat that doesn’t just respond to a guest’s needs—it anticipates them. Welcome to the Adriatic, redefined.

Where Nature Meets Motion

SIRO Boka Place is located in the coastal town of Tivat, Montenegro—an emerging destination where fjord-like bays meet a backdrop of forested mountains. Overlooking the aquamarine sweep of Boka Bay and just steps from the glamour of Porto Montenegro, the hotel’s setting is as cinematic as it is convenient.

…guests are perfectly poised to explore Montenegro’s charming coastal towns, UNESCO-protected sites, and its seemingly infinite supply of waterfalls, trails, and thermal springs.

Reaching this Mediterranean haven is refreshingly seamless. Tivat Airport (TIV) is only ten minutes away and offers direct flights from major European cities. Podgorica (TGD) and Dubrovnik (DBV) airports are within a ninety-minute radius, making road transfers a scenic joyride. For guests arriving by sea, the nearby marina welcomes yachts from around the globe—lending the arrival experience an extra hit of James Bond flair. Once on property, guests are perfectly poised to explore Montenegro’s charming coastal towns, UNESCO-protected sites, and its seemingly infinite supply of waterfalls, trails, and thermal springs.

What SIRO Stands For

More than a hotel brand, SIRO is a wellness ecosystem grounded in four pillars: Strength, Inclusive, Recovery, and Originality. The idea is to create a space where elite athletes, everyday adventurers, and wellness-minded travelers can train, recover, eat, and sleep better than they do at home. 

At SIRO Boka Place, the brand’s ethos comes to life through its world-class facilities: a 1,600-square-meter Fitness Lab with climate-controlled pools and elite training zones, a Recovery Lab featuring cutting-edge therapies, and nutrition-forward dining options led by chefs and in-house dietitians. Every aspect of the property has been designed to support the guest’s pursuit of optimal wellbeing—whether that means smashing a new PR or taking a much-needed nap.

What’s especially notable is SIRO’s commitment to inclusivity. Every offering—whether a boxing masterclass or a meditation session—is built to scale, with variations tailored to all experience levels and mobility considerations. It’s wellness without the elitism, designed to meet guests where they are.

Designed for Sleep, Built for Recovery

The rooms at SIRO Boka Place are where form follows function in the most elegant way. Minimalist yet warm, each room, suite, and apartment is engineered with optimal recovery in mind. Sleep-enhancing features include blackout curtains, a curated pillow menu, soundproofing, and temperature-regulating mattresses. But SIRO doesn’t stop there. 

Every room comes with a Swedish ladder, a stocked recovery cabinet (think: yoga mat, stretch bands, meditation cushion), and thoughtful lighting controls to support natural circadian rhythms. The result? Spaces that aren’t just for sleeping—they’re for recalibrating. 

And for those staying longer or traveling with family, SIRO’s apartments (a first for the brand) offer fully equipped kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and access to all hotel facilities—merging flexibility with full-service wellness.

Destination Fitness, Montenegrin Edition

One of SIRO Boka Place’s defining features is its Destination Fitness programming—curated outdoor adventures and active experiences that take full advantage of Montenegro’s natural playground. Whether it’s a scenic coastal hike, paddleboarding through pristine bays, or mountain biking along forested switchbacks, the experiences are customized to guests’ skill levels and recovery needs.

Pre-adventure, guests can prep in the Fitness Lab with one-on-one coaching or group classes where essentials like sunscreen, electrolyte packs, and trail snacks are provided. And when the adventure ends, recovery treatments like cryotherapy, IV drips, or assisted stretching are ready and waiting. It’s this seamless interplay between exploration and restoration that defines the SIRO model.

The Recovery Lab: Wellness, Biohacked

More than a spa, the Recovery Lab at SIRO Boka Place is a science-backed wellness zone where cutting-edge therapies are delivered in a sleek, soothing setting. From red light therapy and cryotherapy to dry needling and vibroacoustic sound sessions, the menu goes well beyond the typical massage circuit. 

But what sets this space apart is how physical and mental recovery are treated as equal priorities. You might start with compression boots after a long hike, then follow it with a breathwork class in the Mindfulness Studio, or sound therapy in the Recovery Lounge with its Himalayan salt wall and aromatherapy infusion. 

Need something bespoke? Proverb-powered massages, myofascial cupping, and mobility work can be tailored to your body’s needs, whether you’re recovering from a long-haul flight or a high-intensity workout. Chat with your SmartFlyer travel advisor about pre-booking your custom treatment ahead of your stay.

Culinary Balance, Beautifully Plated

At SIRO Boka Place, food is functional—but it’s also joyful. The dining program is rooted in macro-friendly, nutrient-rich meals developed by chefs and in-house nutritionists to support recovery, energy, and overall wellness.

Every dietary preference is considered, and in-room dining is available 24/7—ideal for jet-lagged arrivals or midnight cravings post sauna. 

SIRO Table, the all-day dining venue, serves a mix of Mediterranean classics and Balkan delights—with every dish calibrated for taste and health. For social bites and low-ABV libations, SIRO Social offers a rooftop lounge experience complete with natural wines and health-forward cocktails overlooking Kotor Bay. And for a quick reset between classes? Refuel Bar is a grab-and-go concept with customizable protein shakes, snackable bites, and counter treats that feel indulgent but are anything but empty calories.  Every dietary preference is considered, and in-room dining is available 24/7—ideal for jet-lagged arrivals or midnight cravings post sauna.

Who It’s For

SIRO Boka Place was made for the intentional traveler who plans their trips around how they want to feel, not just what they want to see. It’s perfect for wellness seekers looking to deepen their fitness practice, biohackers who love experimenting with recovery tools, and high-performance travelers who want to stay in top form while on the move. 

Couples craving an active escape, solo travelers investing in their wellbeing, and digital nomads seeking longer-term, lifestyle-aligned stays will all find their stride here. Families and groups are also well catered to, thanks to apartment accommodations and programming that spans kids’ activities, family hikes, and group fitness. 

This isn’t a place where you check out—it’s a place where you plug into your best self.

So, we’ve compiled our very best, expert-tested safari packing guide plus some tips and tricks for your next safari! Because, we know you love luxury, but when you’re in the bush, there are just some things that can’t be “luxified!”

First things first…THE SAFARI BAG!

An exercise in the art of traveling light, and packing the right safari duffel bag

If you are flying between camps, the typical baggage specs are soft (all-sides) luggage/duffel bags with no rigid sides with a maximum luggage weight of 20kg or 44lbs (in the hold), and lastly, a maximum luggage size of 40cm (16 inches) wide x 30cm (12 inches) high x 60cm (24 inches) long. We recommend flexible bags made of pliable material such as cotton or canvas. The best thing to bring for this is a soft side medium-sized duffel bag and a small carry-on for any extras. You can find our team’s go-to bags here: here, here, and here.

Pro Tip: If you’re staying in a city before and after your safari, or indeed, headed to the beach, we recommend that you store your larger luggage at the airport while you’re in the bush. Also, keep in mind that most camps and lodges offer laundry services. Check with your SmartFlyer agent before you go on laundry and storage services.

What to Pack

For Ladies and Gents: Dressing for Your Safari

Safaris are generally casual affairs, even at the high-end camps, so leave the sparkles at home and make sure that you will be comfortable (not to mention, warm!) by packing layers. In the words of safari expert Claire Eastwood, “It’s not a fashion show, but safari is as chic as right now, so don’t be thinking Jungle Jim!”

Here’s our list of the must-haves/must-bring for when our team heads out on safaris. This list below should cover all the basics from top to bottom, when in doubt, check with your travel advisor!

1. long sleeved tops
2. sweatshirt/fleece/versatile jacket
3. thin waterproof raincoat if traveling during the wet season
4. comfortable shorts
5. cotton trousers/pants
6. denim for the cooler months
7. flannel pajama pants for the chilly nights
8. swimsuit (you never know when you will need one!)
9. sunglasses + light, fun scarves + bandanas
10. socks, undergarments + sport bras for the ladies!
11. wide-brimmed hat/baseball caps for sun protection
12. walking shoes/boots

You’re there for the experience, so don’t lose sight of that. Dress comfortably…

It will be chilly in the early morning when you start your game drive, so you’ll need to layer up. Don’t forget to bring a fleece! At night, there will usually be a campfire to keep you warm, but you’ll want to wear long sleeves and trousers to cover yourself up and avoid those pesky mosquitoes. Also, keep in mind, you get a lot dustier than you may expect because of the roads. Speaking of dust, Julie Palo Hayes shares, “Avoid white if possible…there’s a reason that green is popular for safari!”

You’re there for the experience, so don’t lose sight of that. Dress comfortably so you’re not fidgeting with tight-fitting clothing while you’re in a vehicle for hours at a time! Plus, don’t forget that most luxury lodges will offer amenities like ponchos for cold nights. Singitas are incredible and make the biggest difference! Katie Frederick adds, “Mix and match different neutral colors in comfortable fabrics like cotton and linen. Keep mostly covered to protect from bugs and the sun. Just don’t wear dark blue or black because they attract tsetse flies, which bite! Baseball hats are good to protect from the sun, and they stay on when the safari vehicle is moving fast!”

Product Reccos

Must-haves on safari are quick-dry pants comfortable enough for climbing in and out of the vehicles; a bathing suit for lazy lodge afternoons; cute cotton bandanas, which not only elevate neutral safari staples when tied around your neck or hair, but have endless uses from protecting your nose and mouth from dust, to cooling you down when dipped in cold water. We also love a field jacket like the classic from J.Crew. Waxed cotton ones protect from wind and rain, while lightweight linen ones provide sun protection. Big pockets mean you won’t have to lug a bag on game drives, but can still access essentials like camera batteries, polarized sunglasses, lip balm, eye drops, and a good no-mess, brush-on mineral sunblock like Peter Thomas Roth Instant Mineral SPF 45. The African sun is no joke!

Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda have all banned plastic bags so make sure none of your toiletries are packed in Ziplock bags!

Katie Lee adds, “Maximize what you can bring by using packing cubes (these ones from Paravel are amazing!) but don’t go too crazy; you need to follow the weight restrictions carefully, if not, you might be paying for an extra seat on the flight! It’s important to remember that luxury safari camps will offer laundry on site so you can wash your clothes. Plan 2 -3 safari outfits you can re-wear or mix and match.”

Pro Tip: Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda have all banned plastic bags so make sure none of your toiletries are packed in Ziplock bags!

Lauren Kimball Grubbs shares, “Chambray button-up shirts and Soludos canvas slippers were on repeat on my trip to Kenya and Tanzania. They even have a color called ‘Safari so it’s seriously meant to be!” These slip-on will make for the perfect look during the evenings at the camp, but let’s not forget about boots. Kristina Miller adds, “For walking safaris, I’m obsessed with good sturdy hiking boots. My Merrell pair has been great to me over the years!”

Phyllis Polaner adds, “I just love Anatomie for safari wear as everything is super lightweight, hand-washable, multilayered. And as a bonus, they even include packing cubes! This page on their site has some great options, but they also have a Concierge/Travel Stylist to assist your travelers with all their needs.”

The Extra Bits

Photos for Days

Taking photos on auto-mode will still yield images that you will be proud of for years to come.

It goes without saying that you’re going to want to document your incredible adventure. Amy Wyatt shares her advice on photography, “Consider brushing up on some simple photography techniques that will take your photos to the next level. I love my Olympus PEN, which is compact like a point-and-shoot camera, but comes with many of the features of a larger DSLR. I have invested in two lenses — a 40-150mm zoom and a 60mm macro lens for up-close detail, along with the standard 14-42mm lens.” David Bragg adds, “I know we’re all used to using our phones for photos these days but getting up close pics with a true camera is so much better.”

Pro Tip: Don’t feel that you need to turn into a professional photographer, taking photos on auto-mode will still yield images that you will be proud of for years to come. After all, the animals are wild and won’t wait for you to get your camera ready!

If buying and lugging equipment from home stresses you out, there’s always to rent and have it shipped directly to camp. Just don’t forget to bring a memory card for your camera plus a backup, because you’ll take more video and photos than you ever thought possible. And no matter what, bring a battery pack, so you can be sure to charge on the go.

It’s About the Memories

Tom Bartholomew shares, ‘The safari downtime in the midday heat gives a perfect opportunity to catch up on your reading list. I always recommend bringing a book inspired by the safari location. Reading The Elephant Whisperer by Lawrence Anthony surrounded by the sights and sounds of the bush made the pages come alive. It truly gave me a much deeper appreciation of the game viewing.”

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to actually see the game with your eyes instead of through your lens! Courtney Beaver adds, “A great pair of binoculars will ensure you don’t miss a beat. Sometimes it’s nice to put the camera down and live in the moment.”

The bush has a magical quality that can only be felt by immersing oneself in the open plains of Kenya, singing “Africa” by Toto at your tented camp in Tanzania, experiencing the iconic South Africa circuit, and beyond. And whether you’re looking to plan your first African safari or you’re coming back for your annual pilgrimage (where are our fellow fanatics?), the expertise of a safari specialist allows you to tap into their hyper-specialized, nuanced knowledge to in turn nail your customized itinerary.

Working with a safari specialist

The paradox of choice is only amplified by the fact that endless Google search results make it difficult to discern whether you’d be better off chasing the big five in South Africa, tracking the Great Migration in Kenya, paddling through the Okavango, or cruising Namibia’s impressionable Skeleton Coast. Partnering with a SmartFlyer safari specialist ensures you’ll be paired with the destination that best suits your tastes. This includes aircraft configurations, lodge preferences, and a safari guide on the ground who matches best with your personality.

Any SmartFlyer travel advisor can be considered a safari expert thanks to our dedicated partners across the continent.

But we wouldn’t be doing our due diligence here if we didn’t provide a peek behind the curtain. Any SmartFlyer travel advisor can be considered a safari expert thanks to our dedicated partners across the continent. When you work with a luxury travel agent to plan a safari, they are likely doing so in concert with industry contacts local to these regions with teams based all throughout Africa.

In turn, our on-the-ground partners have the ability to jump in as needed during your travels, ensuring you have a point of contact in your destination’s time zone from wheels up to wheels down. With our mission built on creating lifelong relationships with our clients, we know your needs in and out – the same way our vetted safari partners know Africa’s nuances to a tee – and this innate knowledge on both sides translates to collaboration that creates the safari of your dreams.

jump to top safari destination deets

1. Botswana
2. Kenya
3. Namibia
4. South Africa
5. Tanzania
6. Rwanda

Botswana

The country offers intensely rich wildlife across its inland river…

Considered the Jewel of Africa, safari specialists will agree that Botswana is one of the most underrated destinations on the continent. The country offers intensely rich wildlife across its inland river, the Okavango Delta. In addition, it’s home to the earth’s most impressive salt pan, the Makgadikgadi in addition to the largest continuous desert, the Kalahari. For committed conservationists, the management of the land here offers a case study to be admired; nearly a fifth of Botswana’s territory is protected as national parks.

While the answer to the question, “what does a safari cost?” has a range of answers depending on the level of luxury you are looking for, there is a consistency when it comes to this region worth noting. Botswana remains one of the most expensive destinations to take an African safari. However, one of its many benefits is that Botswana is a year-round destination.

when is the best time to go to Botswana?

The dry winter season in Botswana runs from May to October. During this time, the bush thins out from its lush summer landscape and the animals flock to the Okavango Delta. This time also offers the most comfortable to visit since days are warm and nights are cool. As an added benefit, with the rains not being prevalent, there are fewer mosquitos.

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Kenya

You’d be remiss to speak to a safari specialist who didn’t tout the benefits of a safari to Kenya. This East African gem is the home to the iconic landscapes from “Out of Africa.” In fact, a stay at Angama Mara lodge will place you right in the heart of the film’s 19ZZ shooting location. Beyond the movies, Kenya is a place where you can expect superb game viewing and some of the top safari lodges on the continent, many of which are family-owned and operated with conservation at their heart.

Kenya is home to Africa’s Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo – as well as the amiable Masaai people. The Masai Mara is famous for its vast savannahs and the final destination in the annual migration from the Serengeti in Tanzania. While the migration is a popular time of year to visit but can be hard to pin down since the time of year varies as it depends on rainfall; it ranges from June and July to October. Though, there are benefits to visiting Kenya at any time of year with exclusive experiences like walking safaris and night drives available thanks to private concessions.

when is the best time to go to Kenya?

The peak of summer in Kenya falls in January and February when the climate is hot and dry. Like other safari regions, this is when wildlife is most easily found as they congregate around waterholes. Conversely, the most rainfall occurs during the winter from March to May. Visiting during the rainy season equates to more favorable rates and the chance to soak up fewer fellow guests at camp.

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Namibia

Located in Southern Africa, Namibia is a striking country defined by its dramatically contrasting landscapes. The Namib Desert is heralded as the oldest desert on earth; trekking its dunes offers active travelers an exciting physical challenge. Flying between the various regions of Namibia to reach regions like the Skeleton Coast showcases the variety on offer in the country. One moment you’ll be flying over barren ghost towns dotted with abandoned mining villages – the Diamond Coast is the stuff of legends – and the next, you’re floating over estuaries with flocks of flamingos.

Its dunes offers active travelers an exciting physical challenge.

Reaching the Skeleton Coast is the ultimate demonstration in contrast. Its unforgiving harsh coastline seems like no place where wildlife could thrive, yet, against all odds, game drives reveal desert-adapted elephants and giraffes. No matter where you find yourself in Namibia, safari specialists will note the importance of dedicating some time stargazing in this region.

when is the best time to go to Namibia?

Wondering when to go to Namibia? Summer rains usually start in November and run through April. During this time, the country is more verdant and becomes quite hot during the day. Winter extends from May to September. These are drier months and the best time to visit Namibia for prime game viewing. During the winter, expect animals to be concentrated around water holes. It’s warm during the day but freezing at night; be sure to pack your winter gloves and hat for early morning and late afternoon drives.

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South Africa

Perhaps the most popular first-time African safari destination, South Africa offers a bit of everything including captivating wildlife across several distinct regions, wine country, world-class safari lodges, and rich culture. Honeymooners gravitate to South Africa for its ability to cater to romance, but families equally find the country a playground to showcase live lessons in sustainability, history, and art.

While every safari itinerary crafted by a SmartFlyer safari specialist is unique, typically, South Africa itineraries include a city component in Cape Town and wine tasting in nearby Franschhoek before (or after) taking a bush plane out to Kruger National Park and/or Sabi Sands via Johannesburg. Each of these regions offers phenomenal game viewing and luxury lodges.

when is the best time to go to South Africa?

When is the best time to go to South Africa? Winter runs from May to August during which you can plan for mild days full of sunshine in the bush. Temperatures will drop quite dramatically in the evening, but this dry season is heralded as the best time to go on safari in South Africa. Conversely, the best time to visit vibrant Cape Town is the summer which extends from October to March. Temperatures are well into the 80s (F) which makes for fabulous beach weather! During this period, South Africa’s game reserves are experiencing their wet season which is marked by summer rains that make their appearance during afternoon thunderstorms. During summer in South Africa, safari landscapes are lush which changes the prospects of spotting wildlife.

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Tanzania

Amongst seasoned safari-goers, Tanzania ranks as a top returned destination. The East African country is home to an incredible range of experiences including Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti savannah, Ngorongoro Crater, and the beaches of Zanzibar and Pemba Island. With flat plains abound, game viewing in Tanzania is starkly different from the rolling landscapes of other popular safari destinations like South Africa.

A big draw for visitors to Tanzania is the ability to easily combine bush and beach.

A big draw for visitors to Tanzania is the ability to easily combine bush and beach. While it may seem like Africa is an unlikely destination to prioritize beach time – particularly for those who only intend to safari once in their life – what’s often overlooked about the safari experience is how demanding it is on your sleep schedule. Each morning begins at dawn and evenings extend into sundowner game drives and dinner by candlelight. By the end of your time in the bush, you may very well want nothing more than to laze about the beach. Tanzania makes this easy with practically untouched places like Pemba Island as well as more well-known Zanzibar just a bush plane away.

when is the best time to go to Tanzania?

The long dry season lasts throughout June, July, August, September, and October when rainfall is unusual. But perhaps the most exciting time to visit Tanzania is during the Great Migration from June to October. There are two rainy seasons—the heaviest rains usually fall from mid-March to May, and a shorter period of rain occurs from November to mid-January. This is the time of year when you may run into game vehicles being manned by TV crews the likes of National Geography; they film during the rainy season since landscapes are lush, dust is minimal and you can shoot better footage with fewer fellow visitors.

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Rwanda

When it comes to bucket list experiences, gorilla trekking in Rwanda often ranks at the top of clients’ lists. With approximately half of the world’s mountain gorilla population living in Rwanda’s carefully managed Volcanoes National Park, this region offers a very specific safari experience. Those who have visited Rwanda know its people to be incredibly resilient and welcome. The complicated history of this country is an example of how one finds light despite darkness.

As the smallest country in East Africa, Rwanda is also one of the most progressive and fastest growing. It is a true testament to successful wildlife rehabilitation; Rwanda is the only place in the world where you can see the Big Five in addition to the famed gorilla. Itineraries typically being in the gateway city of Kigali – a sophisticated metropolis – before venturing to Magashi National Park and/or Volcanoes National Park. Of course, working with a seasoned safari expert ensures that you’re able to secure a gorilla trekking permit, of which supply is limited and investment keeps these endangered animals safe.

when is the best time to go to Rwanda?

As far as seasonality, Rwanda is a very specific climate and timing is a crucial part of planning your trip. Safari specialists would advise that the best time of year to visit Rwanda for gorilla trekking is dry season. There are actually two dry seasons in Rwanda: mid-June to September and December to February. Conversely, for chimpanzee trekking, the rainy season is when they move about less and are easier to track. The short rainy season during October and November is ideal for avid bird watchers. During this time, rain comes down in short, heavy bursts.

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Tourism as a vehicle for conservation

When working with a safari specialist, clients’ initial questions range from “When to go on an African safari?” to “Where to go on a safari in Africa?” But as you delve further into the process, it’s about so much more. A safari helps to deepen your connectivity to sustainability as you learn about preserving the land and the wildlife that makes a safari so impactful. And within that connection lies a deeper understanding of how the lodges within your itinerary support their communities.

As we’ve written about in past pieces, what many travelers fail to recognize is that your safari doesn’t need a dedicated charitable component–that is, in the form of a community visit or portion dedicated to explicit voluntourism efforts–in order to contribute to the uplift of local communities and protection of the environment. Simply staying at a socially responsible lodge (i.e. anywhere your SmartFlyer travel advisor would send you) means that a portion of your trip is being funneled into the protection of wildlife and long-term sustainable employment for those who do this critical conservation work.

Come summer, the valley surrounding Jackson Hole transforms into a playground for modern cowboys and cowgirls in search of wide-open skies, horseback trails, and whiskey-soaked nights…

Often hailed as the “last of the Old West,” the spirit of Jackson draws visitors for epic skiing each winter, but it’s allure of the cowboy lifestyle in warmer months that holds the promise of a different kind of warm weather getaway. Come summer, the valley surrounding Jackson Hole transforms into a playground for modern cowboys and cowgirls in search of wide-open skies, horseback trails, and whiskey-soaked nights that end in plush, design-forward suites. 

At Caldera House, the line between ski lodge and Western sanctuary blurs in the most stylish of ways. Equal parts rugged and refined, this eight-suite hideaway reimagines Jackson Hole through the lens of elevated comfort and personalized adventure. And while it may be perched at the base of a ski resort, Caldera House is hardly a one-season wonder. Whether you’re seeking a place for a family reunion, a girls’ trip that requires a trip to Kemo Sabe for matching hats, or a romantic escape where fly fishing doubles as foreplay, Caldera House offers a gateway to the ultimate “cowboycation”—that sweet spot where luxury comes with a lasso.

The Lay of the Land

Tucked into Wyoming’s Teton Range, Caldera House is nestled into the heart of Teton Village. And while it’s just a thirty-five-minute drive from Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)—which offers direct flights from NYC, L.A., and other major hubs—it feels like another world entirely. Here, jagged peaks pierce bluebird skies, and the scent of pine mingles with the sound of the tram clinking up the mountain.

The property offers ski-in/ski-out convenience during snow season, but in warmer months, it’s your base camp for trail rides, river floats, mountain hikes, and small-town Western charm. 

Winter may bring powder hounds to the region’s famous slopes, but summer is when Jackson Hole truly shines for adventure-seekers with a taste for the West. The property offers ski-in/ski-out convenience during snow season, but in warmer months, it’s your base camp for trail rides, river floats, mountain hikes, and small-town Western charm. From the doorstep of your suite, it’s minutes to the entrance of Grand Teton National Park—where wildlife safaris, alpine lake paddles, and starlit hikes await. Then, it’s Jackson’s historic downtown where boot shops, art galleries, and iconic watering holes set the scene for the kind of nights you’ll still be talking about by next summer. 

Home on the Range (But Make It Chic)

Design lovers, rejoice: this isn’t your typical log cabin. Caldera House’s eight residential-style suites—four two-bedroom and four four-bedroom options—are the thoughtful result of Los Angeles’ Commune Design teaming up with local legends Carney Logan Burke Architects. The result? A chalet-style aesthetic that combines European elegance with rustic Western soul. 

Each suite spans between 1,500 and 5,000 square feet, offering chef’s kitchens (yes, your SmartFlyer travel advisor can arrange for a private chef), spa-like bathrooms with heated floors and soaking tubs, wood-burning fireplaces, and balconies with postcard-worthy mountain views. These aren’t just rooms; they’re sanctuaries.

That same balance of style and substance extends to the shared spaces: a heated outdoor plunge pool with mountain views, a cedar dry sauna, a fitness studio with Peloton bikes and yoga equipment, and the kind of intimate spa that makes a post-hike massage feel not just deserved, but divine. When it comes to grabbing a bite, Corsa, the onsite Italian restaurant, serves up seasonal dishes with alpine flair, while Southcable Café keeps things casual with coffee and bites perfect for fueling up before your next cowboy conquest.

Calling All Cowboys…and the People Who Adore Them

So, what exactly is a cowboycation? Think: part Wild West adventure and part mountain escape, and fully leaning into the slower, simpler joys of summer out West. At Caldera House, that might mean private horseback rides through wildflower-dappled trails, exclusive rodeo access, or simply sipping something smoky as the sun dips behind the Tetons.

To help you fully picture what your cowboycation could look like, we’re breaking it all down here. 

• Saddle Up and Ride: Join a seasoned wrangler for a private horseback ride through alpine meadows and shaded aspen groves. Whether you’re a beginner or a barrel-racing veteran, there’s a trail to match your comfort level. 

• A Day on the Ranch: For a deeper dive into cowboy culture, Caldera House can arrange behind-the-scenes access to working ranches. Think cattle drives, roping demos, and the kind of hands-on experience that’ll have you tipping your (newly purchased) hat. 

• Horse Whisperer Moments: Witness the deep, intuitive connection between humans and horses with a private demonstration by local trainers. It’s less show pony, more soul connection. 

• The Rodeo, Reimagined: Sure, you can buy a general admission ticket—but why not go behind the chutes? Caldera House can get you exclusive access to Jackson Hole’s famed rodeo, including pre-show meet-and-greets with the cowboys who live it daily. 

• Bourbon Lore x Caldera House: This July, Caldera House partnered with Bourbon Lore to host an intimate, luxury weekend that pairs mountain adventure with America’s favorite brown spirit. Expect tasting menus, guided hikes, and stories that go down smoother than the bourbon itself. 

• A Western Night Out: No cowboycation is complete without a stop at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. Pull up a saddle (yes, those are the actual bar stools) and soak in the live music and high-proof history. It’s kitschy, yes—but also completely iconic.

Who’s Checking In?

Caldera House is for travelers who want it all: the privacy of a high-end rental, the amenities of a luxury hotel, and the curated experiences that come when booking with a savvy travel advisor. Its guest list spans multigenerational families looking for a reunion spot, honeymooners who’d rather trade Bali for the Big Sky, and friend groups leaning into more boots than bottle service. 

And while couples will love the romance of the setting, it’s also ideal for “adventure parents” who want their kids to see bison up close by day and sleep in high-thread-count sheets by night. Design-forward travelers, luxury adventurers, and anyone chasing that feeling of space, silence, and starry skies—this one’s for you.

Yeehaw, But Make It Luxe. Ready to trade your city saddle for the real thing? Reach out to your SmartFlyer advisor to start planning your Caldera House cowboycation. Whether it’s a milestone celebration, a romantic escape, or a family trip with frontier flair, there’s no better place to hang your (designer) hat. 

In today’s ever-accelerating world, what constitutes ‘luxury’ has transcended the traditional boundaries of plush linens and white-glove service. For a new generation of discerning travelers, true indulgence is found in stillness, spaciousness, and meaningful connection. Few places embody this ethos more thoughtfully than at four standout properties across the Capella and Patina portfolios: Capella Singapore, Capella Sydney, Capella Bangkok, and Patina Osaka.

A New Language of Luxury Wellness Travel

…a restorative travel experience that tends not only to the body, but also to the mind and soul.

Rooted in a shared philosophy of intuitive hospitality and cultural immersion, Capella and Patina bring a progressive, deeply personal approach to luxury wellness travel. At these properties, well-being isn’t a department—it’s a design principle ingrained from the very ideation phase of these properties. From riverside Bangkok to a hillside sanctuary on Sentosa Island, these hotels invite guests to slow down and tap into the essence of a place—and of themselves. What emerges is a restorative travel experience that tends not only to the body, but also to the mind and soul.

A Sense of Place, A State of Peace

The journey to luxury wellness travel often begins with settling in. At Capella and Patina properties, architecture and landscape work in tandem to create environments that soothe, inspire, and encourage deeper presence.

Freshly opened in May 2025, Patina Osaka is an expression of Japanese reverence for nature, and seasonality is woven into every detail. Facing the iconic Osaka Castle and nestled next to ancient ruins, the property was designed around the concept of kisetsukan, or the emotional awareness of seasonal change. Every guest room frames a different view of the city’s green spaces, and interiors reflect the wabi-sabi aesthetic of beauty in imperfection. Designed by Jun Mitsui & Associates and Strickland, the hotel uses locally sourced materials—including wood and stone from the site itself—to ground each guest in a deep sense of place.

On Sentosa Island on the southern coast of Singapore, Capella Singapore unfolds over thirty lush acres of rainforest, a tranquil canvas mere minutes from the city. The restored colonial Tanah Merah bungalows, dating to the 1880s, provide a storied sense of place, while Norman Foster’s contemporary design anchors the present in comfort and style. Villas with private plunge pools, unobstructed views of the South China Sea, and winding garden paths cultivate a sense of seclusion that allows guests to truly exhale. It is a haven where nature is not simply observed, but experienced intimately, from six protected heritage trees to curated meditation sessions held in quiet forest glades.

…the balance between grandeur and grounding is palpable.

In Sydney, Capella’s flagship Australian property offers a different kind of peace: one born of legacy. Housed in the former Department of Education building in the heart of the city’s Sandstone Precinct, the hotel’s seven-year, $225 million restoration preserved its Edwardian Baroque bones while layering in serene interiors of walnut wood, natural stone, and locally inspired art. Guests are steps from the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, yet feel worlds away once inside. Whether soaking in the twenty-meter heated indoor pool beneath heritage lanterns or enjoying a treatment at the spa with native botanicals, the balance between grandeur and grounding is palpable.

Along the Chao Phraya River, Capella Bangkok has carved out a sanctuary that channels the city’s spiritual side. Each of the 101 accommodations offers unobstructed water views, and the riverside villas—complete with private gardens and plunge pools—set a new standard for urban retreat. Here, the design melds Thai influences with contemporary elegance: floor-to-ceiling windows invite sunrise meditations, and spa-like bathrooms mirror traditional healing architecture. Even the hotel’s Living Room lounge, reserved for in-house guests, acts as a quiet threshold where the pulse of the city slows down.

The Body Knows: Rituals of Restoration

Wellness at Capella and Patina is not packaged into a one-hour massage or confined to a spa menu. It’s embedded into the rhythm of each day, offering guests a chance to restore, reflect, and reconnect through diverse, often unexpected rituals.

At Patina Osaka, wellness moves confidently into the future. The Patina Wellness Centre spans 1,400 square meters and blends cutting-edge HealthTech with Eastern traditions. Guests can experience cryotherapy to reduce inflammation, step into a hyperbaric oxygen chamber for cellular regeneration, or relax with red light therapy to support circadian alignment. Yet these high-tech treatments are delivered with the same calm intentionality found across all Patina experiences: designed to invite awareness, not intensity. Here, the steam sauna is next to a herbal tea bar. The twenty-meter pool is lined with living greenery. And wellness isn’t about fixing yourself—it’s about making space to be yourself.

In Singapore, therapies follow the lunar cycle, honoring ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic beliefs that the body responds differently depending on the moon’s phase.

At Auriga Spa, the wellness flagship for Capella Singapore, Capella Sydney, and Capella Bangkok, treatments are inspired by both time and tradition. In Singapore, therapies follow the lunar cycle, honoring ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic beliefs that the body responds differently depending on the moon’s phase. The spa’s architecture reflects this rhythm too, with curved walls and ambient lighting that mirror natural movement. Guests may begin with a new moon detox massage, followed by a sound bath to align intentions, or a waxing moon energizing wrap to stimulate creativity and momentum.

At Capella Sydney, the Auriga Spa integrates Indigenous Australian practices and locally sourced botanicals into its offerings. One signature ritual includes a eucalyptus body polish, followed by a bushflower essence facial and guided breathing practice that draws on the traditions of the land’s original stewards. Meanwhile, at Capella Bangkok, wellness blends East and West: Thai massage is joined by Indian oil rituals, Chinese acupressure, and European aromatherapy to create treatments as dynamic as the city itself. A signature offering, the “Four Elements Journey,” uses earth scrubs, water soaks, fire-inspired heat therapies, and air-based breathwork to realign the body’s natural balance.

Cultural Currents & Curated Connection

If the body is healed in the spa, then the spirit is fed through story and shared connection. Capella and Patina properties understand that the truest luxury is to feel seen, known, and inspired—not just pampered.

Each evening, the Sonata Lounge becomes a hub of community with live vinyl DJ sessions, artist talks, and creative tastings.

Patina Osaka’s Perpetual Journey takes a more avant-garde approach. Mornings begin with Patina Rise: a daily movement practice blending walking, yoga, or light meditation. Afternoons may include fermentation workshops where food waste is transformed into culinary treasures, or tea ceremonies where Japanese traditions meet French patisserie. Each evening, the Sonata Lounge becomes a hub of community with live vinyl DJ sessions, artist talks, and creative tastings. The idea? That wellness lives not just in your body, but in your curiosity, your connections, and your sense of joy.

Each Capella property’s Culturist team acts as an emotional concierge. In Bangkok, they might guide guests on a curated street food tour, then lead a private meditation with monks. In Sydney, the journey may involve hidden art galleries and behind-the-scenes theatre experiences. In Singapore, Capella Curates include Peranakan cooking classes, starlit garden yoga, and workshops that explore local floral symbolism. These offerings don’t just entertain—they allow guests to step into the cultural narrative of a destination, becoming participants rather than observers. Even children are invited into the experience. The Little Stars programming across Capella hotels offers age-appropriate wellness and cultural activities, from scavenger hunts in heritage gardens to hands-on art and cooking sessions led by local experts. Families leave not just with souvenirs, but with shared memories rooted in discovery.

Conscious Luxury Wellness Travel: A Sustainable Sanctuary

For all their beauty and comfort, these properties are built on a shared commitment to sustainability and responsible stewardship—an essential extension of their luxury wellness travel ethos.

• At Patina Osaka, sustainability is baked into the brand’s identity. The property sources stone and wood directly from the site, minimizing transport emissions. Furnishings are created by local artisans, with upcycled and biodegradable materials used wherever possible. Patina’s on-site gardens supply herbs and greens for its five restaurants, and its fermentation and zero-waste culinary programming turns leftovers into flavorful, educational moments. Even the art tells a story: walls adorned with gold-leaf tapestry reflect the evolution of Osaka through time.
• Capella Singapore has partnered with EarthCheck to certify its eco-tourism practices. The property integrates rainwater harvesting systems, permaculture gardens, and energy-efficient technologies throughout its grounds. In its restaurants, chefs prioritize local ingredients and seasonal produce, ensuring a low-carbon dining experience that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
• Capella Sydney is an architectural case study in adaptive reuse, saving a landmark building from demolition and transforming it into a model of conscious hospitality. Interiors incorporate recycled materials, water-efficient fixtures, and LED lighting, while its culinary team works closely with small Australian producers who emphasize regenerative farming. Even the bar team at McRae sources botanicals from nearby urban gardens.
• Capella Bangkok balances indulgence with intention: a robust recycling program, locally sourced ingredients, and a design ethos that favors natural materials over synthetic ones. The hotel’s partnership with Bangkok’s art and cultural nonprofits ensures that every stay directly supports the city’s creative ecosystem.

The New Luxury is Living Well

From Singapore’s rainforest sanctuaries to Osaka’s sensorily charged tech-forward spaces, Capella and Patina have rewritten the script on what it means to travel well. They remind us that true wellness is expansive. It’s a quiet walk through an ancient district, a seasonal meal shared mindfully, a sleep uninterrupted by stress. It’s slowing down to watch the sunrise over a river, or standing still long enough to hear your own breath.

Wellness at these properties is not about escape. It’s about return. Return to presence. Return to curiosity. Return to the wonder of simply being well. And in this return, perhaps, we become not only better travelers, but more whole versions of ourselves.