Lourdes, Hautes-Pyrenees, France |
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The Beauty of France Goes Far Beyond Paris |
As the weather cools, heading back to Paris might be on your mind. But don’t let the City of Light be the only stop on your visit to France. After exploring a new arrondissement or finally getting out to Pere Lachaise to wander amongst the greenery and gravestones of the famous, get on a train to see how intoxicating the rest of France can be. |
Left: Bordeaux Wine Country Top Right: InterContinental Bordeaux Le Grand Hotel | Bottom Right: Bordeaux, France |
A two-hour train ride south, escape to the vineyards of Bordeaux and its captivating medieval city. I can arrange tastings at your favorite vintages and book you into a boutique hotel amongst the Grand Cru grapes. Discover the city’s youthful energy (it’s home to two universities), its UNESCO heritage old town, and a fantastic museum of wine. |
Left: Hôtel du Palais Biarritz | Top & Bottom Right: Biarritz, France |
Head further south, about a four-hour train ride from Paris, and escape to Biarritz, the beach town favored by aristocrats and royalty. Pick up a pair of real espadrilles in the shops and wander down to the grand plage, the main beach, to watch surfers play in the waves, overlooked by grand châteaux that line the cliffs.
If you don’t stay at the recently renovated Hotel du Palais (first built in 1854 for Napoleon III and Empress Eugenie), then visit for dinner to experience the Old World charm of this very French resort town. |
Left: Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy Top Right: Normandy | Bottom Right: Normandy - Photo Credit: Hôtel Saint-Delis |
About a three-hour train ride north of Paris, the historic beaches of Normandy await. This is a chance to explore the region’s impressive museums and memorials that bring its storied past to life, before heading along the coast to the jaw-dropping island abbey of Mont St-Michel. Stay nearby for the night and rent a bicycle. The sea surrounds the abbey and the approach on two wheels is unforgettable. If you are driving, continue farther south along the dramatic coastline into Brittany. This region is celebrated for its laid-back lifestyle, charming fishing villages, indulgent butter, and abundant seafood, making it a deliciously different taste of France. |
Taste, explore, and wander your way across France. Your journey starts here. |
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Necker Island, Private Caribbean Island Resort |
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My Own Private Island? Yes Please! |
White sand, clear waters, and nothing but the sound of waves or a celebratory toast. A private island stay offers unmatched luxury, privacy, and a sense of exclusivity that’s hard to find elsewhere. Some islands are reserved for full buyouts, perfect for celebrations or multigenerational escapes, while others welcome individual bookings yet still feel ultra-private thanks to limited capacity and thoughtful design. Private island travel today spans everything between intimate seven-suite retreats and expansive resorts with full exclusivity, making paradise more accessible than ever. |
Jumby Bay Island, Antigua & Barbuda |
Jumby Bay Island, Antigua When Taittinger is the house Champagne, you know indulgence is a priority. This 300-acre island is car free, and guests explore by bike or golf cart. As an all-inclusive, it delivers relaxed island living alongside impeccable service, making it a favorite for both couples and families. Booking type: Individual bookings Necker Island, BVI Owned by Sir Richard Branson, this legendary island hosts up to 48 guests and is typically booked as a private buyout. “Celebration Weeks” are open to individual travelers as well. Booking type: Primarily full buyout; select individual weeks |
Left: The Brando, French Polynesia | Right: Kokomo Private Island Resort, Fiji |
South Pacific & Polynesia |
The Brando, French Polynesia Formerly Marlon Brando’s personal paradise, this atoll near Tahiti now hosts 35 beachfront villas. Guests enjoy complete privacy, A-list service, and a no-photo policy that protects everyone’s anonymity. Booking type: Individual bookings Kokomo Private Island, Fiji Set in the Kadavu Islands, Kokomo offers 21 villas and residences, each with private pools. It is especially well-suited for travelers seeking adventure, with family-friendly programs, diving, and wellness experiences. Booking type: Individual or full buyout |
Miavana by Time + Tide, Madagascar |
Miavana by Time + Tide, Madagascar Fly in by helicopter and step into another world with lemur treks, oceanfront villas, and family-friendly programs. Perfect for both couples and multi-gen groups. Booking type: Individual bookings or full buyout Ariara Island, Philippines Located in a remote corner of the Palawan region, this 125-acre island includes beachfront villas, a full team, and custom excursions for those who truly want to disappear. Booking type: Full buyout only |
Left: Velaa Private Island, Maldives | Right: Lizard Island, Australia |
Velaa Private Island, Maldives One of the most luxurious islands in the world, Velaa accommodates up to 80 guests and is available for exclusive use. Overwater bungalows, a golf academy, private submarines, and world-class cuisine set the stage for an unforgettable escape. Booking type: Individual bookings or full buyout Lizard Island, Australia Set right on the Great Barrier Reef, this island resort can be fully booked for private groups. Enjoy direct reef access, 24 private beaches, and acclaimed cuisine. Booking type: Individual bookings or exclusive use by request |
Discover just how extraordinary a private island stay can be. |
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The One Thing Every Traveler Needs to Pack |
It may not be as eye-catching as a new bathing suit or as shiny as rolling luggage, but packing travel insurance is one of the smartest things you can do before a trip. Trip cancellation coverage helps when plans don’t go as expected. For a fraction of the trip cost, it can reimburse nonrefundable fees if a prepaid flight or tour gets cancelled. Trip interruption coverage is just as important. If you have to cut a vacation short, at least the missed portion can be refunded. The most essential coverage is medical care on the road, including accidents, illnesses, and unexpected visits to clinics or hospitals. You may not plan on stepping on a sea urchin, but if it happens, insurance makes sure help is there when you need it. I can help sort through the details and find a plan that fits your travel style. And don’t forget about luggage insurance, always a nice extra for added reassurance. |
Peace of mind on your travels is essential. |
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