Going on adventures in different countries, immersing in new cultures, and marvelling at nature’s beauty is the ultimate pastime. But while many love the idea of exploring the world, there are various ways to enjoy it. For those seeking the crème de la crème of travel experiences, luxury travel presents unparalleled and exclusive opportunities.
Luxury travel goes beyond extravagance and indulgence; rather, it’s about convenience and comfort, as well as discovering parts of a country that remain hidden to the average tourist.
While these luxury tours often come with a higher pricetag, they are definitely worth the investment. Here’s why.
For a start, luxury travel itineraries offer experiences that are vastly different from mainstream travel. Step behind the scenes with the most influential vine-growing families in Southern Australia and immerse yourself in wine-making, hop on a private jet to a tropical paradise, or go truffle hunting with expert truffle hunters in Tuscany. These are great opportunities to see the country from another perspective, offering exclusivity that allows you to escape the crowds and truly savour the moment.
Learn More: How Luxury Tours Offer a Unique Experience
With luxury tours, you’ll also get to experience the ultimate comfort in travel. From boutique hotels and luxury resorts to spacious villas and residences on private islands, some of the world’s most exquisite accommodations will be yours to revel. They may not boast the lavishness of five-star hotels, but they will certainly offer excitement and novel encounters.
Luxury travel also promises utmost privacy and tranquillity amidst your adventures. Stroll down an ancient seaside town in Sicily, barbecue around a bonfire in Mongolia, or enjoy a lovely picnic lunch in a private reserve in Colombia; unwind in peaceful and rejuvenating environments while experiencing the destination.
Beyond comfortable accommodations and exciting itineraries, luxury tours also offer top-notch specialised care that differs from mainstream travel. Fancy a ride from the airport or need help with your baggage? There’ll be a team of highly trained staff ready to go above and beyond to cater to your every need. These services and assistance ensure a smooth, stress-free, and enjoyable trip.
Travelling, while exciting, often comes with its fair share of stress. From booking and coordinating flights to planning a detailed itinerary, there is plenty to do prior to and during your trip. With luxury travel, you’ll experience relaxation and indulgence like never before. A hassle-free journey of private transfers, expedited check-ins, and carefully-planned adventures await you, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: enjoying the destination.
In a world where travel is becoming more common, what’s going to set your journey apart from the rest?
Thankfully, alleviating travel stress through luxury experiences has never been easier. Intriq Journey is a Hong Kong travel agency that curates iconic itineraries to deliver transformative and enriching luxury family holidays. So, if you’re looking to elevate your adventures, look no further! Contact us today.
Book a combination of 6 nights at any Singita Sabi Sand and Singita Kruger National Park Lodges and receive 1 night and 1 inter-lodge flight per person on us.
• Valid: 6 January to 14 December 2023
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• Promotion excludes Singita Castleton
Book 4 nights at Singita Lebombo or Sweni Lodge and receive 1 night on us.
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Combine 4 nights at any one property in Singita South Africa or Singita Malilangwe with 4 nights at Singita Kwitonda Lodge & receive 50% off 1 night per region!
• Valid: 6 January to 31 May 2023; 1 November to 14 December 2023
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Singita Sabi Sand, Singita Kruger National Park Lodges or Singita Malilangwe
• Minimum 4 nights required at Singita Volcanoes National Park
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If you are yet to experience one of our &BEYOND ‘Fly Me’ offers, you are in for a treat.
For your 7-night package rate, you have the choice of where (which lodge) and when (how long), using any combination of the nominated &BEYOND lodges and camps in Kenya and Tanzania.
Not only will you benefit from flight savings, but also a range of included accommodation and activities per person, per 7-night stay.
There’s a potential saving of up to USD 2,399 per person, per 7-night stay.
Stay 6-nights at any combination of our Botswana lodges and camps (up to three lodges and camps) within the Okavango Delta, and we’ll include your flights. That’s an incredible savings of up to 49%!
For your 6-night package rate, you have the choice of using any combination of up to three &BEYOND lodges and camps (a minimum of two lodges and camps) within the Okavango Delta. A maximum of three nights can be spent at &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge.
This 3-night Cape Town, 4-night safari package not only ticks all the ‘Fly Me’ benefit boxes, but it also sets a new benchmark with its innovative elements. Enjoy a flexible seven-night package, which includes your accommodation, flights, and transfers, for one fixed price. This means you can explore the picturesque city of Cape Town in South Africa and choose to go on an exhilarating safari to either Botswana or South Africa, for the exact same price.
For more Fly Me…. promotions by &Beyond, speak with us to find out more.
For stays with Desert & Delta in Botswana, enjoy your 8th night free!
For stays including Camp Okavango or Leroo La Tau, enjoy a sleep out in season for free during June – October.
In the heart of Europe lies Italy, a country with the highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the planet. Its landscapes are adorned with ancient cities, magnificent artworks dating back hundreds of years, and architectural marvels that make it a living museum.
The cultural heritage of Italy can be attributed to a combination of historical, geographical, and sociocultural factors. Not only was it a central hub of trade for thousands of years, the Roman empire was also one of the most influential civilisations in history, leaving behind plenty of historical landmarks in Italy.
Interested in going on a luxury holiday in Italy to learn more about the country’s rich history? We share with you 10 Italian UNESCO World Heritage Sites to visit when you’re there.
Located in the Piedmont region of Italy is Coppo Cellars, a historic winery dating back to the 18th century. Apart from the exceptional wine you’ll get to taste during the visit, Coppo Cellars is also known for its cool, dimly lit ancient subterranean cellars filled with ancient barrels and ageing wine that will transport you to a bygone era.
Witness the old-world methods and craftsmanship of Italy’s deep-seated winemaking traditions, and learn more about grape cultivation, fermentation, and the art of blending when you visit the Coppo Cellars.
Trulli houses are traditional Apulian dry stone huts complete with conical-roofs that cover the land of Puglia, Italy. These buildings are crafted without the use of mortar, reflecting the ingenious craftsmanship of generations that have gone before us.
Going on a Trulli holiday in Puglia lets you explore the architecture of these age-old houses, discover Italy’s rich heritage, and experience the region’s culture and traditions.
With over 7000 years of history, Matera is one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world. The town boasts a rocky appearance, and is filled with numerous stone-carved homes that served the prehistoric troglodytes. These unique architectural structures, along with Matera’s several cliffside homes, narrow alleys, and ancient churches, offer a glimpse into an archaic civilisation, making it a captivating World Heritage Site with a rich historical significance.
Bergamo is a charming town located in Lombardy. It’s often overshadowed by its more famous Italian counterparts, but contains two well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Città Alta (Upper Town) and the Città Bassa (Lower Town).
The Città Alta is a medieval enclave featuring Venetian walls, ancient churches and quaint piazzas while the Città Bassa is a bustling street lined with lively cafés, ttrattorias and osterias, as well as elegant boutiques.
A unique trait of Bergamo is its people’s dedication to preserving traditional crafts and skills. It is where you’ll find workshops and artisans who continue to practice ancient techniques, from bookbinding to woodworking.
The Amalfi Coast is another travel destination in Italy that offers breathtaking natural landscapes and a rich cultural heritage that stretches back to the Middle Ages. The region was once a powerful maritime republic and remnants of its maritime influence can still be found in the ancient shipyards and maritime museums that dot the coastline.
Learn More: Exploring the Enchanting Amalfi Coast
The Dolomites is a mountain range that spans the northern regions of Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Their peaks, characterised by their distinctive pink and white limestone formations, were formed over 250 millions years ago when sediment on the seabed underwent compression from the collision of tectonic plates.
For those in search of a deeper connection to Italy’s rich heritage, the Dolomites offer an array of experiences. Embarking on hikes and skiing adventures through its pristine landscapes bring you closer to nature, while visits to quaint alpine villages allow travellers the opportunity to immerse themselves in local traditions and savour authentic cuisine. You can even find a network of well-preserved military fortifications from World War I at the Dolomites.
Constructed in the 12th century under the patronage of William II of Sicily, the Normal Cathedral in Sicily stands as a remarkable historical site that showcases a captivating architectural blend of Byzantine, Arab and Norman influences. It is also where you’ll find the world’s largest collection of Byzantine mosaics, which were produced from the 4th to 15th centuries during the Byzantine empire.
On a luxury holiday in Sicily? The Valley of the Temples is a World Heritage Site you should not miss! Located just outside the vibrant city of Agrigento, the Valley of the temples is a sprawling archaeological site that offers visitors an immersive journey into Italy’s past. It comprises not only temples, but also an array of other ancient structures including sanctuaries, necropolises, and residential areas, showcasing the enduring legacy of ancient Greek and Roman civilisations.
The Villa Romana del Casale is an ancient Roman villa renowned for its remarkably well-preserved mosaics. This sprawling estate spans over 3,500 square metres and was once the lavish summer residence of a Roman aristocrat. Its grandeur speaks volumes about the importance of Sicily within the Roman Empire, shedding light on a lesser-known chapter of Italy’s historical tapestry.
As the tallest active stratovolcano in Europe and one of the most active in the world, Mount Etna is an iconic site that tourists visit to witness firsthand the ongoing forces that shape our planet. From the plumes of smoke and ash that frequently rise from its summit to the ever-changing landscape of its slopes, Mount Etna offers a living lesson in geology.
Looking for culturally-rich luxury holidays in Italy? Intriq Journey, a Hong Kong travel agency, offers a variety of itineraries that will allow you to discover some of Italy’s most interesting UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Whether it’s a visit to Puglia to see some Trulli houses or a tour of UNESCO sites in Sicily, let Intriq Journey bring you on a heritage tour across Italy. Find out more here!
Have a penchant for exquisite cuisines and a desire to savour the finest flavours the world has to offer? Then you should embark on a gourmet tour in Italy! Besides its rich history and bustling arts scene, Italy is also a land known for its culinary artistry and gastronomic heritage. Discover new places to visit for the best gourmet food experiences in Italy below!
Gourmet Experiences in Dolomites
The Dolomites are a mountain range in northeastern Italy that offers a mesmerising backdrop perfect for nature lovers. But beyond their breathtaking natural beauty, these mountains are also a gold mine of culinary experiences that will captivate your senses and taste buds.
Something you shouldn’t miss out on when you’re on a Dolomites hiking tour is the opportunity to savour the region’s delectable cuisine. Their local gastronomy is deeply rooted in tradition, filled with hearty dishes that reflect the mountainous terrain.
Kickstart your authentic Italian cuisine adventure with polenta, a staple of the region made of coarsely ground corn, served in various forms and often accompanied by rich game meats or a savoury mushroom ragu.
Then, as you explore the charming alpine villages scattered throughout the Dolomites, you’ll also have the chance to experience the warmth of the local hospitality at many family-run mountain huts. Dig into traditional dishes like hearty goulash and apple strudel, all while soaking in the stunning panoramic views.
For the adventurous foodies, join expert guides on mushroom and herb foraging expeditions, where you get to learn the art of identifying these natural treasures.
Truffle Hunting in Tuscany
Tuscany, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and rich history, is also a truffle lover’s paradise. It is famous of producing some of the world’s finest truffles, and is where you can savour the best truffle-infused dishes. If you’re looking for an immersive experience, Tuscany is also where you can head to for a truffle hunting adventure.
Some places to go for truffle hunting in Tuscany include:
Located between Florence and Pisa, San Miniato is a town famous for its rare white truffles. These truffles are often referred to as “King Truffles” or “white gold” due to their rarity and high market value. With the assistance of truffle hunters and their canine companions, you’ll be sure to unearth some of these hidden treasures.
Another excellent truffle hunting destination in Tuscany is volterra. This historic hilltop town offers breathtaking views of vineyards, olive groves, and rolling hills, and is renowned for its black truffles. Truffle hunting excursions here are readily available, and you’ll have the chance to uncover both white and black truffles depending on the season.
Cortona is a charming town in eastern Tuscany that’s surrounded by forests where truffles grow abundantly. Truffle hunting tours here often include visits to local vineyards and wineries, giving you a well-rounded Tuscan experience.
Wine Tasting Through Italy
What’s an Italian gastronomy travel without some wine tasting? As a country with a winemaking history that dates back thousands of years, Italy is a wine lover’s paradise boasting an incredible diversity of wine varieties.
When embarking on a wine-tasting journey through Italy, you’ll discover not only exquisite wines but also the deep cultural and regional significance that wine holds in this beautiful country.
Learn More: Luxury Tuscany Tour of the Finest Vineyards
Some popular Italian wines you should taste when you’re on your food and wine exploration in Italy include:
Chianti is a well-known Tuscan red wine made primarily from Sangiovese grapes, with a vibrant red fruit profile, hints of earthiness, floral notes, and a bright acidity. It is classified into several quality levels, with Chianti Classico being one of the highest.
Barolo and Barbaresco are two of Italy’s most prestigious red wines produced in the Piedmont region. They are considered among the finest expressions of the Nebbiolo grape variety.
Barolo is often called the “King of Wines” and has robust tannins with flavours of cherry, truffle, and roses, while its more elegant counterpart, the Barbaresco, has a slightly lighter and approachable character.
The Amarone della Valpolicella, or simply referred to as Amarone, is a red wine from the Veneto region known for its rich, full-bodied, and complex flavours. It’s made from a blend of partially dried grapes, and has a relatively high alcohol content ranging from 14% to 16% or more.
Processo is a type of sparkling wine made from the Glera grape variety, and occasionally mixed with some other grape varieties. It’s known for its fresh, light, and crisp flavour, as well as its notes of green apple, pear, citrus, and florals.
From savouring the rich flavours of regional dishes to exploring the diverse food markets and vineyards, Italy offers a gastronomic experience unlike any other.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a beginner to Italian cuisine, the country’s culinary treasures are sure to leave an indelible mark on your taste buds and heart. So, it’s time to pack your appetite and set forth on luxury Italian culinary tours with Intriq Journey today!
The sight of the incredible Pyramids in Giza.
The beautiful calls to prayers from the mosques during prayers.
The scent of the spices in the souk.
The dust from the crazy Cairene traffic.
The flavours of the delicious Egyptian cuisine.
Love it or hate it, Cairo is going to assault all your senses. Home to over 20 million inhabitants in the metro area and the biggest city in Africa as well as the Arab world, Cairo may seem scruffy at first glance but beneath this surface lies a soulful vibrant city.
There is no excuse not to visit Giza Pyramids for any visitor to Egypt. This is where having a good tour guide greatly adds to the experience of visiting a place. All tour guides in Egypt are trained archaeologists; you can learn through them about the incredible Ancient Egyptian history which went back as far as 5,000 years.
The Egyptian Museum is another must-see attraction to understand more of Ancient Egypt. Home to over 120,000 artefacts from that period, the most famous one is the solid 11-kg death mask made of gold belonging to King Tutankhamun. It is one of the most recognizable artefact from Ancient Egypt. As King Tutankhamun was a relatively obscure king in the 14th century BC and died young at 19, its tomb didn’t attract the tomb raiders’ attention over the centuries and when it was discovered in Luxor in 1922, the archaeology team was very impressed with the well-preserved tomb.
Moving on from the ancient Egyptian history, contemporary Cairo shows you the side of Egypt which builds on its history and constantly evolving. Over the centuries, the Nile River has made the land on its banks fertile and allowed civilization to thrive. However, the Nile also used to flood annually during the summer since antiquities and it was only until after the completion of Aswan High Dam in 1970 when floods could be effectively controlled. It explained why Historic Cairo with its important Islamic sites such as Ibn Tulun Mosque are located a distance from the river while the more modern buildings are found along Nile. Khan El Khalili, the main souk in Cairo, is also in historic Cairo area and is an ideal place to test your bargaining skills or just people-watch at leisure.
Although Egypt has been a majority Muslim country since the 12th century, a group of indigenous Christian community known as the Copts is a sizeable community which maintains its unique identity and religion. The Hanging Church in Coptic Cairo is considered centre of the community and the best place to learn about this community. Unlike other Christians who have their day of worship on Sundays, Coptic Orthodox Christians worship on Friday, the same day as Muslims and the start of the weekend in Egypt.
It is easy to dismiss the notion that Middle Eastern cuisine are all the same; however, Egypt does have some unique dishes which are not found in other parts of the region. Being the capital, Cairo naturally is the best location to sample some of them.
One of this unique items is Egyptian falafel, also known as Ta’ameya. Unlike other falafel such as those in Levant, Egyptian version is made with dried fava beans instead of ground chickpeas. It is best served in a pita bread with other condiment such as tomatoes, onions and tahini and is widely available everywhere as a popular street food. Another must-try item is koshari, Egypt’s national dish. Rice, lentils, pasta are mixed together with a spiced tomato sauce and additional garnishes such as chickpeas and fried onions. If you eat meat and are more adventurous, you can also try Haman Mahshi or stuffed pigeon with rice. While these Egyptian dishes may look unassuming, they are full of flavours and are a good representation of how the country is.
Despite Egypt being in the wrong headlines for most of the 2010s, it still remains one of the most fascinating countries to visit. As the home to Giza Pyramids, the only surviving ancient wonder, Egypt’s incredibly rich history has left deep impressions to all visitors from past till present.
Your perfect week starts in the capital city Cairo, the main gateway to Egypt and the largest city in Africa with over 20 million people. Two days is the minimum required to cover the highlights: the first day can be spent on the sights of Memphis, Saqqara and Giza from the ancient Egyptian period, ending with a light and sound show by the Sphinx in the evening. On the second day, you can start with learning more about the fascinating ancient Egyptian culture at the Egyptian Museum before moving on to the mosques and churches of Islamic and Coptic Cairo. No travel to Middle East is complete without visiting a souk so finish the day shopping or people-watching at Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, Cairo’s major bazaar.
In terms of accommodation, Cairo’s city centre boasts options such as Ritz Carlton and Fairmont Nile City. For those who wish to wake up to the sights of Pyramids, Marriott Mena House in Giza is the perfect choice.
Cruising down the Nile, the world’s longest river, is on many bucket’s list and deservedly so. Egyptian civilization has depended on Nile River for survival since antiquities and thus nearly all the important Ancient Egyptian historical sites are found along its river banks, particularly between Luxor and Aswan. Sanctuary Retreats’ Sunboat IV and Nile Adventurer and Oberoi’s Philae and Zahra are the best boats cruising regularly between the two cities in either direction. With only around comfortable 40 cabins, these boats make the 4-night cruise down the Nile a relatively cozy experience.
There are lots to see and explore during the day; in Luxor, you can visit the elaborate tombs of ancient Egyptian monarchs in the Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens on Nile’s West bank as well as the Luxor and Karnak Temples on the East bank. Of particular interest will be Queen Neferiti’s tomb which is one of the most spectacular tombs due to its level of details. Sailing upstream, it’s possible to visit Temple of Edfu (dedicated to Sky God Horus) and Temple of Kom Ombo (dedicated to crocodile god Sobek) before arriving in Aswan. Beside visiting Ancient Egyptian sites such as Temple of Philae and unfinished Obelisk, you can also experience sailing on the Nile inside a felucca or visiting a Nubian village.
Wrapping up the great week will be the visit to the incredible Great Temple of Abu Simbel, accessible as a day trip via a short flight from Aswan. Built in the 12th century BC and easily one of the most beautiful temples in Egypt, the temple was shifted to the current site in 1968 as the original place would be submerged upon the completion of Aswan High Dam.
If you have more than a week, you can move to the coasts and explore either Alexandria on the Mediterranean Sea or Sharm El Sheikh by the Red Sea. Alexandria has a good mix of historic and modern sights, ranging from as early as the Roman period to the modern Bibliotheca Alexandria built on the site of the ancient Library of Alexandria. Meanwhile, Sharm El Sheikh offers excellent diving / snorkeling / viewing of marine life in the Red Sea as well as a good base to visit Christian sites such as Mt Catherine in the Sinai Peninsula.
Tuscany is known for its beautiful landscapes and gastronomic experiences. But apart from these, did you know that it’s where you can find a treasure trove of Renaissance masterpieces? Also known as the birthplace of Renaissance, Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is a culturally rich city perfect for art enthusiasts all over the world.
It was one of the wealthiest cities in Europe during the time, with powerful families like the Medici family contributing largely to Renaissance art, creating the vibrant artistic community there that we know today. In fact, many of the Renaissance’s greatest works, such as Michelangelo’s “David,” Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus,” and Leonardo’s “Mona Lisa,” were created in or around Florence.
If setting off on a luxury holiday in Italy to discover Renaissance art in Florence and Tuscany is an itinerary right up your alley, then you’re in for a treat! In this article, read more about Renaissance art and discover the best places in Tuscany to marvel at them.
Learn More: 4 Best Luxurious Destinations in Italy
Renaissance art refers to the artistic and cultural movement that took place in Europe between the 14th and 17th centuries. It is a style that perfectly captures the beauty of our natural world and the human form with precision and depth.
Some of the most iconic Renaissance art in history were created by notable figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli.
Uffizi Gallery is one of the must-visit art galleries in Florence, where numerous collections of ancient sculptures and paintings between the Middle Ages and the Modern period are housed. The works of many renowned Renaissance artists, such as Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” and Leonardo da Vinci’s “Annunciation” are showcased here.
The Accademia Gallery is home to Michelangelo’s masterpiece, “David,” and many tourists worldwide flock to this place to take a look at it. Other sculptures and artwork by Michelangelo, as well as other Italian artists such as Botticelli, Domenicao Ghirlandaio, and Andrea del Sarto are also displayed here.
The Palazzo Pitti, which translates to Pitti Palace in English, was once where the powerful Medici family resided. The property now houses several museums, including the Palatine Gallery, which features works by Titian, Raphael, and Caravaggio. The Palazzo Pitti also boasts stunning Renaissance architecture and frescoes that one can admire when touring the space.
The San Marco Museum situated within the former Dominican convent of San Marco was renovated and decorated by some of the greatest Renaissance artists. It contains an extensive collection of works by Fra Angelico, one of the most renowned painters of the Early Renaissance.
The architecture and the monastic atmosphere of the museum’s layout also offers an immersive experience into how Renaissance art was integrated into the daily routines of those living in the convent at the time.
Arezzo, a charming town nestled in eastern Tuscany, is a hidden gem for Renaissance art lovers. This town was where Giorgio Vasari, a Renaissance painter and architect lived, and is also where you can find some of the works of Piero della Francesca, one of the most important Early Renaissance painters. Several works produced during the Renaissance can be found in this region.
Some places to visit in Arezzo include:
The Camposanto Monumentale offers a glimpse into the evolution of artistic styles, particularly those of the Renaissance era. Its frescoes are created by some of the most renowned Renaissance artists, including Benozzo Gozzoli, Taddeo Gaddi, and Buffalmacco.
Unlike the bustling tourist crowds at the nearby Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Camposanto offers a more serene and contemplative atmosphere. It’s a place where you can take your time to appreciate the art, architecture, and history without the rush of a typical tourist destination.
Tuscany is an art lover’s paradise where the echoes of the Renaissance still resonate through the cobbled streets and picturesque landscapes. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a curious traveller, if you’re keen to see all the great masterpieces of the Renaissance era, perhaps a luxury Tuscany tour will be perfect for you.
Are you up for some cultural exploration in Tuscany? Let Intriq Journey, a tour agency in Singapore, curate the perfect luxury Tuscany tour for you. Unlock your unique experience today.
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Western Australia reveals an ethereal haven where the commonplace evolves into the extraordinary. Its expansive, pristine coastlines, age-old landscapes, and thriving urban centers weave together a captivating tapestry of natural marvels and contemporary splendors. Explore the WA Museum Boola Bardip, a venue for sharing the rich tapestry of Western Australia’s diverse stories. Discover The Perth Mint, where an exquisite array of local jewelry, including the dazzling pink Western Australian diamonds, takes center stage, adding to the region’s allure.
Looking for an itinerary to match Roy and Cheryl’s experience, refer to:
WESTERN AUSTRALIA IN LUXURY & STYLE
