T he heart of the matter when traveling with Ker & Downey World Travel is more than luxury and style: It’s all about those little ineffable moments, beholding the beauty of the world, the way you always imagined it to be. These experiential interludes—a breath of fresh mountain air, the rush of adrenaline, the peace of a calm beach, the taste of a new cuisine—whatever it may be for you, you’ll know it when you encounter it. And it comes standard on every Ker & Downey World Travel journey.
Singita Kwitonda
In more than 40 years of travel , I’ve learned that the first trip someone takes to a new place is often about hitting the highlights—seeing the Great Migration in Kenya, visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris, hiking Machu Picchu in Peru. But it’s the return trips, when we slow down and go deeper, that often leave the most lasting impressions.
I’ve been to Africa more than 100 times. I’ve experienced more game drives than I can count and sipped just as many sundowners as the sun set over the savanna. Initially, I was taking in everything about the safari industry. However, it was the subsequent journeys that allowed me to linger in one place long enough to learn the rhythms of the wildlife, share stories with guides who became friends, and visit communities we’ve supported over the years that truly connected me to the continent. Depth, not speed, is what makes travel transformative.
This issue is dedicated to that philosophy. Whether you’ve been on several safaris and are ready for Madagascar’s rainforests and rare wildlife, or you’ve explored London and Paris and now find yourself drawn to Wales’s lyrical villages and wild coastline, these destinations invite you to linger. From savoring the spice-scented breezes of Grenada to meandering through Sri Lanka’s tea country, from drifting along Belize’s barrier reef to immersing yourself in Tokyo’s layered traditions, we encourage you to take your time and discover what lies beneath the surface.
"Depth, not speed, is what makes travel transformative."
This year, as we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we’ve made a small but significant change to our name: Ker & Downey World Travel. This change clarifies our unique position in the luxury travel landscape. This ensures that you know exactly who we are: the only Ker & Downey company designing and executing luxury travel to more than 100 countries across the globe.
While the name has evolved, our approach remains unchanged: authentic, never duplicated. We design trips that invite you to slow down, connect deeply, and give back—whether through wildlife conservation, education, or humanitarian work in the communities we visit.
Wherever your travels take you next, I hope you’ll embrace the joy of going deeper and traveling slower.
David Marek President, Ker & Downey World Travel
WHAT'S NEW
THE LATEST TRAVELS AND EXPERIENCES FROM OUR TEAM OF GLOBE TROTTERS
We’re proud to share that four of our exceptional travel designers—Trista Gage, Catherine Brown, Mary-Jean Eraci, and Nicole Porto—have been named to Condé Nast Traveler’s prestigious list of Top Travel Specialists for 2025.
This annual list recognizes the world’s leading experts in luxury travel, selected for their deep destination knowledge, exceptional client service, and ability to craft unforgettable experiences.
Even more exciting—two of them have also achieved the rare and remarkable feat of visiting all seven continents this year.
MARY-JEAN ERACI
“What started as a quiet dream—just for the love of seeing the world—turned into something unforgettable. Every place has left its mark, but Antarctica was especially meaningful this year because I experienced it with my friend and fellow Ker & Downey Travel Designer Nicole. This milestone has only made me more excited to help others see the world, too.”
New Look, Same Vision
NICOLE PORTO
“I realize how lucky I have been to travel to so many countries and continents before I turn 50! Egypt is one of the countries where I can confidently say I’m an expert, so receiving the Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist award for Egypt was especially meaningful, since the country is so close to my heart. I’ve spent a lot of time exploring, and I absolutely love knowing my clients are getting the very best experience when they book with me.”
You might have noticed things look a little different around here. After four decades of operating under our singular name, Ker & Downey has evolved to Ker & Downey World Travel. This update to both our name and logo celebrates 40 years of business and clarifies our brand identity. The addition of "World Travel" distinguishes us as the only Ker & Downey brand that creates trips to more than 100 countries worldwide. Our refreshed logo honors our heritage while signaling our continued dedication to exceptional, meaningful travel well into the future.
WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING
“WE
HAD SUCH A GREAT TIME IN ICELAND!”
“All our guides and drivers were very good, but Arnar was absolutely incredible. If you arrange a trip to Iceland for a family with young children, he cannot be beat. Arnar was so patient, kind, and engaging with our kids and always had thoughtful suggestions and recommendations for our day and meals. When my daughter fell asleep in the car (more than once), he stayed back with her, encouraging the rest of us to explore whatever our destination was at the time.
My favorite day was probably exploring the Westman Islands (we saw a crazy number of puffins and the weather was perfect!). My husband loved the Landmannalaugar day, my son raved about the lava tunnel tour, and my daughter can’t stop talking about “driving a horse” since her stable ride.
It was a truly magical trip! We will absolutely reach out in the future for travel. You made everything so flawless and easy for us. We had never been on a trip before where literally everything went better than expected, so thank you!” - S. Bernardi, a client of Catherine Brown’s
Left: Nicole Porto; Right: Mary-Jean Eraci
GUYANA: UNTAMED WILDERNESS
BY SARA KRAMER
Tucked along the northern coast of South America lies Guyana, one of the world’s last truly wild frontiers. A land where dense rainforest stretches uninterrupted for miles, waterfalls thunder through canyons, and rivers wind through vast savannas. Last year, in August, Ker & Downey World Travel had the opportunity to join Travel + Leisure to explore this up-and-coming destination and discover why Guyana is one of the world's best-kept secrets.
The Falls & Beyond
For many, the journey begins (or ends) with Kaieteur Falls. Towering at five times the height of Niagara, it is the world’s largest single-drop waterfall—breathtaking in both scale and setting. But while Kaieteur may be the headline, it’s everything beyond the falls that captivates the soul: the scarlet flash of a Guianan cock-of-the-rock, river journeys to Indigenous villages, and jungle walks where every rustle in the trees evokes a sense of discovery. Guyana is a birdwatcher’s paradise and an explorer’s dream.
A Different Kind of Luxury
What we quickly realized during our travels is that in Guyana, luxury is not defined by thread count or chandeliers. Guyana is not for everyone—and that’s exactly the point. It’s for travelers who crave immersion over itinerary, who find luxury in experience over excess. And right now, as the world grows smaller and more curated, Guyana offers something increasingly rare: the chance to feel like a true adventurer.
"Guyana offers something increasingly rare: the chance to feel like a true adventurer."
Caribbean Flare & Indigenous Hospitality
What makes Guyana unforgettable are its people, who represent a vibrant blend of Afro-Caribbean, Indian, and Indigenous cultures. In Georgetown, we wandered lively markets and selected fresh fish, which we enjoyed that evening—expertly prepared by a renowned local chef. In the interior, community-run ecolodges offered insight into Indigenous life and their vital role in preserving the land. Warm welcomes abounded; all were equally excited for the opportunity to share the love of their country and optimism for the future ahead in the changing landscape of travel.
Explore Guyana With Ker & Downey World Travel
Ker & Downey is one of the first tour operators to curate journeys to Guyana at the highest level, blending meaningful adventure with comfort and connection. Ker & Downey’s Best of Guyana journey includes immersive stays in Surama and Iwokrama Rainforest Reserve, featuring iconic flights over Kaieteur Falls, wildlife-rich trails, riverboat cruises, and community-led ecolodge stays. Our individually curated itineraries pair the best available accommodations—often rustic yet charming—with private flights, expert guides, and privileged access to remote regions rarely seen by outsiders.
Book Your Guyana Experience Today
For those ready to step off the beaten path and into one of the world’s last untouched places, now is the time. Whether you're drawn by the call of Kaieteur Falls or the quiet wisdom of the rainforest, your journey with Ker & Downey World Travel promises to be deeply personal and entirely unforgettable. Book your Guyana experience today and discover what it means to truly explore.
Kaieteur Falls
Guianan cock-of-the-rock
A local market
Openings, revamps, and the latest travel news
One memory captured by photographer S. Singh Mecker Travel that makes a difference across the globe Insider secrets of luxury travel
JOURNEYS
Coquerel's sifaka lemurs in Madagascar
Photo courtesy of Anjajavy Le Lodge; Louise Jasper
GIVING BACK
BY AMY WILLIS
With four decades in the travel industry, Ker & Downey World Travel has adopted a philosophy of giving back in ways that are far more personal and impactful than traditional tourism dollars can achieve. For every trip booked, a portion of the proceeds goes to our in-house philanthropy, Ker & Downey for Africa. Through Ker & Downey for Africa, we support several vetted projects throughout the continent, including funding for schoolchildren in Uganda through the Ripples Foundation
We also join forces with partners around the world, such as ABOUTAsia Travel in Cambodia, the Galo Plaza Lasso Foundation in Ecuador, and the Brooke Foundation in Egypt, to make an impact in local communities and their respective lands. For every trip booked to specific regions, a portion of the proceeds is donated to these causes, which support people, wildlife, conservation, working animals, and education.
We are excited to announce new and improved partnerships moving forward.
BANA BA LETSATSI’S NEW CLASSROOM BLOCK
Ker & Downey World Travel has been a longtime supporter of Bana Ba Letsatsi, a critical center in Maun, Botswana, that supports vulnerable, at-risk, and orphaned youths. In addition to providing temporary refuge, they also offer a comprehensive support system designed to break cycles of poverty and trauma. Within the center's caring environment, children receive social, psychological, and educational support. One of the center's most pressing needs is a new classroom block to accommodate the increasing number of children seeking assistance. When they reached out for help with the new building, we answered the call.
This partnership enables us to harness the transformative power of travel to address real community needs.
When travelers choose Ker & Downey World Travel for their Botswana adventures, they become part of something larger than their individual journey—they become contributors to a mission that is literally changing and saving young lives. Every journey to Botswana directly supports the children at Bana Ba Letsatsi.
The funds raised through this partnership will support the construction of the new classroom block; however, the impact will extend far beyond the bricks and mortar. Today's vulnerable children become tomorrow's teachers, healthcare workers, business owners, and community leaders, creating a multiplying effect of positive change that will benefit Botswana for generations to come.
The school at Bana Ba Letsatsi
Photos courtesy of Bana Ba Letsatsi | Lewa Wildlife Conservancy; Bobby Neptune
LEWA WILDLIFE CONSERVANCY: A 30-YEAR
LEGACY OF CONSERVATION
Ker & Downey World Travel and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy are proud to announce a new partnership in conserving wildlife in northern Kenya. Ker & Downey's Philanthropy Manager Amy Willis had the privilege of visiting the conservancy and was awed by what she witnessed. On the verge of their 30th anniversary, Lewa reached out for support when funding began to dwindle. Ker & Downey went to work to find a way to help keep the programs thriving.
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy (LWC) is a wildlife sanctuary sprawling from the slopes of Mount Kenya toward the northern rangelands of Kenya in East Africa. The conservancy is part of the UNESCO Mt. Kenya World Heritage Site, a Man & Biosphere Reserve, has been green listed by the IUCN, and recognized as a Key Biodiversity Area, for excellence in protected area management. In response to the devastating rhino poaching crisis of the 1970s and '80s, renowned conservationist Anna Merz established the Ngare Sergoi Rhino Sanctuary in 1984. What began as a bold effort to protect a species on the brink would, by 1995, evolve into the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, a 62,000-acre haven for wildlife. Today, Lewa is home to 14 percent of Kenya’s black rhino population and hosts the world’s largest wild population of the endangered Grevy’s zebra. Additionally, Lewa houses herds of elephants and buffalo, giraffes, lions, cheetahs and over 502 species of birds.
Beyond safeguarding critical species, Lewa is a model for people-centered conservation, driven by an inclusive, participatory approach that delivers sustainable, shared benefits for both wildlife and local communities. The Conservancy ensures that surrounding communities benefit from conservation efforts through education, sustainable agriculture, water access, healthcare, and women's micro-credit, reflecting Lewa's vision of a future where all Kenyans value, protect, and benefit from wildlife. Ker & Downey World Travel is proud to support the conservation wing of the conservancy, as many of our clients return from trips to Lewa with full hearts and a renewed drive to act.
For every trip booked to East Africa, a portion of the proceeds will go directly to Lewa to support their programs. This is just the beginning, and we have much more in store for the years ahead to make this a long-lasting and sustainable partnership.
A black rhino in Lewa
African elephants in Lewa
On safari in Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
ARRIVALS
Openings, Revamps, and the Latest Travel News
TAASA MIGRATION CAMP, TANZANIA
This newly launched family-friendly mobile tented camp moves three times a year to follow the legendary Great Migration across Serengeti National Park. Led by expert guides, exhilarating game drives offer unforgettable encounters with the Big Five, and guests enjoy magical moments, such as sundowners overlooking the savannah and gourmet dinners beneath star-filled skies. The camp’s twelve spacious, contemporary tents combine comfort and adventure, each featuring a private outdoor lounge area, ensuite bathroom with 24-hour hot water, and luxurious king-size beds dressed in crisp linens. Immersed in nature yet thoughtfully appointed, this exciting addition offers an exceptional safari experience for families and wildlife lovers alike.
BY RINA CHANDARANA
TINAJANI, PERU
In the heart of southern Peru, nestled in the surreal Valley of the Giants, Andean's newest outpost, Tinajani, offers a rare encounter with untouched nature and ancient heritage. Towering crimson rock formations surround a secluded tented retreat designed for just 12 guests, where earth, wind, and water have shaped the land for millennia. This remote safari-style tented camp invites travelers to experience the deep cultural roots of pre-Inca civilizations through traditional cuisine, storytelling, and warm local hospitality, all without disturbing the cherished off-the-beaten-path landscape. Blending rustic charm with comfort, each tent is outfitted with a lounge, private terrace, and hot tub, providing uninterrupted views of the canyon.
NAMOROKA TSINGY CAMP, MADAGASCAR
Visited by very few, Madagascar rightfully deserves the spotlight with its extensive array of unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth. A stay at this camp reveals a world of towering baobab trees, vibrant orchids, and curious lemurs. The nine tents are just as impressive, featuring stone-built bathrooms, solar-heated showers, and spacious private terraces overlooking the forest. Located close to Namoroka National Park, the camp gets its name from the limestone formations known as tsingy. (Learn more about this region on page 32)
W MALDIVES, MALDIVES
Welcome to paradise at this recently reopened resort. Here, guests wake up in one of 77 overwater villas with private pools, to the sound of waves, the sight of white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, and one of the Maldives’ best reefs. The refreshed villas are outfitted with a whale shark-inspired motif, mangrove textures, and tropical vibes. Meanwhile, island flavors come to life at one of three restaurants serving up local seafood bites pulled straight from the Indian Ocean. There’s a sense of being both a castaway and connected, all at once.
THE SUNDAYS, AUSTRALIA
You’ll want to get here quickly, then take it easy. Hamilton Island’s newest boutique escape in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef is named after the best day of the week, making that lounging Sunday feeling an everyday thing. Guests are invited to relax, reconnect, and recharge amongst the palms of Catseye Beach, where unhurried brunches are the norm. By day, lounge in a poolside cabana or hop on a buggy to explore the nearby marina and restaurants; by night, retreat to your private balcony for endless ocean views before drifting off in a king-size bed.
HOTEL SPLENDIDO + VILLA BEATRICE, ITALY
Belmond’s legendary Splendido in swanky Portofino continues its elegant transformation under Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, with the unveiling of a renovated main building featuring new rooms, lounges, and a Dior Spa. An additional highlight of the new season is the debut of Villa Beatrice, an exclusive five-bedroom coastal retreat adjacent to Hotel Splendido with private sea access, original frescoes, butler service, panoramic views, and access to the main hotel's extensive amenities. Designed to feel like a cherished family home, Villa Beatrice captures the spirit of the Ligurian Riviera in true Belmond style.
Photos courtesy of W Maldives | The Sundays | Belmond
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL AND RESIDENCES, COLOMBIA
On Colombia’s Caribbean coast, the longawaited Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Cartagena invites guests to uncover the city’s soul from the colorful, culturally rich neighborhood of Getsemaní. Just steps from the UNESCO-designated Walled City, this intimate retreat blends restored colonial landmarks with modern elegance. A testament to the Caribbean’s layered past, the hotel is housed within a collection of architectural gems, including the 16thcentury San Francisco Temple and Club Cartagena, a 1920s Beaux-Arts icon. With 131 rooms and suites, rooftop pools, a spa, and immersive cultural experiences like salsa dancing and natural adventures such as trekking with biologists, this new kid on the block promises to merge luxury with Cartagena's vibrant spirit.
FOUR SEASONS RESORT AND RESIDENCES,
PUERTO RICO Nestled on Puerto Rico’s northeastern coast within the exclusive Bahía Beach community, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Puerto Rico invites you to reconnect with nature in luxurious style. Spanning 483 acres—more than 65% of which are dedicated as sanctuary lands—the former coconut farm now flourishes as a nature reserve, featuring forests, marshes, lagoons, and a two-mile stretch of golden beach. Explore with guided birdwatching, kayaking along tranquil canals, or canoeing the Espíritu Santo River, where iguanas and tropical birds may cross your path. After a day of discovery, return to flawlessly crafted guest rooms, suites, or the Villa Caribe residence, each of which seamlessly blends indoor elegance with outdoor serenity.
ORDOVICIAN BEACH RESORT,
PANAMA Just two hours from Panama City and a short private boat ride away, this calming sanctuary on Isla Grande rests within Panama’s UNESCO-listed Portobelo National Park. Fortyseven serene rooms looking out to the Caribbean invite guests to completely unplug. Meanwhile, the luxury spa’s herbal rituals, yoga, and sound healing, along with multiple restaurants—one fusing local and Asian flavors and the other a garden-to-table bistro—invite nourishment from the inside out. Activities are endless, from snorkeling the vibrant reefs to fishing with locals, who are easy to meet since founders Rick and Loan Hill partner with the local community and employ more than 80% of the hotel's staff from Isla Grande.
SIX SENSES LONDON, ENGLAND
A new level of hospitality and effortless modern living arrives near London’s famous Hyde Park in late 2025. Housed in a restored Art Deco landmark, the hotel will feature 109 rooms and 14 branded residences, all of which blend vibrant community with urban serenity. Guests will enjoy locally inspired dining, a cozy lobby lounge, and a transformative Six Senses Spa complete with a pool, fitness space, and Alchemy Bar.
AMAN NAI LERT, THAILAND
Finding a green oasis amidst Thailand’s bustling capital can be a challenge, but this 2025 arrival from Aman seamlessly blends Bangkok’s dynamic energy with a sense of tranquility. Home to 52 suites, a spa, and a wellness center, this property promises a decadent home-away-from-home, especially with the suites offering sweeping city views. In a city with no shortage of delicious options, this Aman property is a gourmet destination on its own with seven restaurants and bars offering a range from local Thai flavors to Italian.
GRAND HOTEL LES TROIS ROIS, SWITZERLAND
Originally built in 1681, this storied property has been masterfully reimagined for modern living. Following a two-year restoration led by world-renowned Basel architects, a striking new wing now features a luxurious Presidential Suite, a serene Japanese-inspired rooftop spa, and one of the city’s most coveted dining destinations. Inside, history and innovation meet in perfect balance—with custom furnishings, curated color palettes, and abundant natural light bringing warmth and refinement to every space. Far from old-fashioned, this timeless favorite represents elevated heritage.
JUMEIRAH MARSA AL ARAB, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Set on Dubai’s golden shoreline, the fresh selection of residences bears the timelessmeets-modern Jumeirah stamp. One-to three-bedroom layouts boast expansive terraces, soaring ceilings, private kitchens, and stunning views of the marina, city, or ocean. Savor personalized dining by renowned chefs, unwind at the light-filled Commodore Club, or indulge in Mediterranean delights at Mirabelle. At Talise Spa, embark on transformative wellness experiences, including cryotherapy and infrared healing.
ON THE MOVE
DOUGLAS MAWSON, POLAR
This is Aurora Expeditions’ most advanced small ship yet—designed for polar discovery and inspired by its legendary namesake Antarctic explorer. Carrying only 154 guests, this state-of-the-art vessel sets sail in November and features revolutionary technology for smoother, quieter cruising and increased fuel efficiency. Guests can enjoy 12 stateroom types, some outfitted with private balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as two restaurants, a heated outdoor pool (much appreciated after a polar dip), and a lecture theater where naturalists share stories about the farthest reaches of the world.
THE TREND: THE HUMAN EDGE IN AI-POWERED TRAVEL
Artificial intelligence streamlines logistics, yet Ker & Downey World Travel shows why only people can craft journeys that transform.
BY RINA CHANDARANA & ELIZABETH FRELS
There’s no denying that artificial intelligence has transcended all areas of our lives, from our social media feeds and email spam filters to smart home systems and self-driving cars. It has also taken the travel industry by storm, becoming a valuable tool for both travel companies and travelers. It’s fast, efficient, and increasingly capable. But at Ker & Downey World Travel, we’ve learned something important: no matter how advanced AI becomes, it can never replace the human touch that makes travel so truly transformative.
PERSONAL TOUCH
Full disclosure: We use AI every day at Ker & Downey World Travel. It helps us streamline workflows, generate marketing content, conduct destination research, and even identify patterns in client travel preferences. And even though it’s a helpful tool, every trip we design is still created by a real person—a knowledgeable travel designer who brings empathy, cultural knowledge, creativity, and personal relationships to the table. In luxury travel, especially, human connection is everything.
AI ITINERARIES
Many clients come to us with journeys generated entirely by AI. They simply type in a destination and a robot spits out a full itinerary for them in seconds. But these AI trips lack depth, personalization, and sometimes even accuracy. Take, for example, the client who requested a custom archaeological trip through Mexico and Central America, and the AI suggested a series of generic stops without considering drive times, nearby reliable accommodations, or even border crossings.
TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL
That’s where our expertise comes in. We take those rough outlines, refining them and weaving in unique, meaningful experiences that AI simply can’t recommend because they don't exist anywhere on the Internet. We know African safari destinations away from the crowds, where you’ll get front row access to the wilderness from a private tented camp. AI might suggest visiting the Louvre, but we’ll connect you with a private art historian who unlocks the stories behind the masterpieces on a unique treasure hunt. AI can certainly give you the “what.” Ker & Downey, though, provides the “how,” “when,” and “why.”
Cultural experiences at Casa Palopó
Photos courtesy of Casa Palopó
Six Senses Fort Barwara
EMOTIONAL CONNECTION
Travel is more than logistics—it’s emotional. It’s about discovery, connection, and often, transformation. AI can’t replicate the warmth of a local guide sharing stories over tea in a family home. It doesn’t know your anniversary is coming up and cannot surprise you with a romantic dinner under the stars. It won’t be there to help when your flight is canceled, your luggage is lost, or a storm reroutes your safari.
Luxury travel thrives on human relationships, both with our clients and our partners worldwide. The drivers, hoteliers, chefs, and guides we work with aren’t just names in a system; they’re trusted colleagues. That network is what gives our trips soul and reliability, which is something AI cannot replicate.
WRONG ANSWER
AI still makes mistakes. In fact, AI tools like ChatGPT often “hallucinate" or fabricate information. You can ask it the same question multiple times and, if it doesn't know the answer, it will invent (often incorrect) responses. And while AI is constantly improving, it can also reflect bias, pull from outdated sources, or recommend places that are inappropriate for your travel style or timing.
We've even seen locals intentionally mislead travelers through AI. In one case, restaurant-goers in London flooded review sites with false information just to steer tourists away from their favorite local spots. An AI itinerary based on that data can lead travelers astray.
HUMAN CENTERED
At the end of the day, luxury travel is about people: the ones you meet on your journey and the ones who help make it unforgettable. AI doesn’t build lifelong memories. People do. And in our world of tailormade travel, there is no replacement for the relationships, insight, and creativity that our designers bring to every itinerary.
Planning a trip with AI might give you a starting point, but it won’t give you a sense of magic, discovery, or surprise. It won’t think to include that last-minute cooking class with a local grandmother in Vietnam, or a spiritual ceremony with a monk in Bhutan. It can’t respond to a look of excitement or concern, and it certainly can’t offer comfort or alternatives when things don’t go according to plan.
Despite LLMs like ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Perplexity being around for only a few short years, AI has proven that it is here to stay. And while it is undoubtedly transforming the travel landscape in both positive and negative ways, we are confident that in the human-powered travel industry, it will remain a complement to our work rather than a replacement. Because what we do in travel is all about humanity—who we are as people and how we impact other people’s lives. That will never change, regardless of the technology we use.
THE GUIDE
Insider Secrets of Luxury Travel
The private yacht at the Four Seasons Maldives Private Island at Voavah
UNLOCKING THE ISLAND EXTENSION
Elizabeth Frels explains how a simple travel secret delivers outsized impact—and why it deserves a place in every itinerary.
WE'VE ALL BEEN THERE.
You just had an incredible trip, wandering through historic cities or tracking wildlife in remote landscapes. Yet when you return home, you feel completely depleted. Suddenly, you find yourself wishing for a “vacation from your vacation,” one where you can sit back and revel in the joy of doing absolutely nothing before launching ahead into the stresses of everyday life again.
The island extension is your solution. An indulgent island escape offers the ultimate encore to a larger journey. It's not just about beach time, though. These thoughtful additions provide space to exhale, soak in your journey, and ease back into the rhythm of life with sun-warmed skin and a glass of something chilled in hand.
Most importantly, these extensions honor the emotional cadence of a well-composed trip. Just as a great piece of music ends with a lingering final note, an island extension leaves a lasting impression—a quiet coda to an unforgettable adventure.
Below are six exquisite pairings where an island extension can transform your trip into something even more extraordinary. Each destination is not only logistically accessible, with clever use of time and flight routes, but it is also distinctly indulgent, offering both a more profound sense of place and the kind of restorative beauty that lingers long after you return home.
Take this as your permission to finally take that “vacation from your vacation.”
INDIA ISLAND EXTENSION:
The Maldives
India offers cultural immersion in its richest, most vivid forms—fortresses and spice markets, sacred temples, and colorful festivals. The energy is intoxicating, but even seasoned travelers could benefit from a few days of restorative calm before flying home.
Enter: the Maldives. With direct connections from major Indian cities, this Indian Ocean haven is perfectly positioned for post-journey rejuvenation. Choose from a curated collection of luxury overwater bungalows and barefootchic resorts that place you at the edge of impossibly turquoise lagoons.
Whether you’re ending a Rajasthan palace tour or a deep dive into India’s tiger conservation work, the Maldives invites you to transition gently. Here, spa rituals are soundtracked by the sea, and dinner is served under starlight on a private sandbank. It’s the elegant exhale every culture-filled adventure deserves.
Arriving to the Four Seasons Maldives Private Island at Voavah
KENYA SAFARI ISLAND EXTENSION:
Seychelles
After the thrill of a luxury safari through Kenya’s vast landscapes—from the golden plains of the Masai Mara to the pink-hued lakes of the Great Rift Valley—what better finale is there than the dreamlike archipelago of the Seychelles?
With regular connecting flights from Nairobi to Mahé, this island extension is both convenient and dramatically different. Sink into the slower pace of island life at a private villa or resort, where granite boulders frame ivory beaches, and the only agenda is the tide. For those who treasure their privacy and peace, Seychelles delivers. It’s also a marine playground: sail between islands, dive in coral-rich waters, or simply let time slip by beneath a palm tree. Here, your safari stories settle into memory as your senses realign with sea breezes and salt air.
Photo: Alfonse guided walks with Blue Safari
On safari in the Masai Mara
Photos courtesy Blue Safari
| Great Plains
| Scott Ramsay | Soop Kim on Unsplash
PORTUGAL ISLAND EXTENSION:
São Tomé & Príncipe
Set off from Lisbon, one of Europe’s most atmospheric capitals, and in under six hours you'll land in the lush, little-known paradise of São Tomé & Príncipe. With direct flights and Portuguese as the local language, the connection is seamless—but culturally, the transition is transformative.
This island duo off the west coast of Africa offers pristine beaches, mist-draped rainforests, and ecochic lodges nestled among cacao plantations. Explore the biodiversity of Obo National Park, snorkel in sapphire waters, and savor freshly caught seafood infused with Afro-Portuguese flavors. After days of cobblestone strolls and wine-soaked lunches in Lisbon or Porto, this extension gives you permission to be. It is an exquisite reset that still ties beautifully into your broader Lusophone experience.
Wine on a balcony in Lisbon
The coast of São Tomé & Príncipe
St. Lucia
Guyana’s untouched wilderness and rich biodiversity make it one of the most rewarding nature and wildlife experiences in South America. From the thundering majesty of Kaieteur Falls to the riverine jungles of the Rupununi, Guyana's remote adventures are as immersive as they are exhilarating (see page 5 for more about this trending destination).
But that immersion doesn’t need to end with your expedition. With direct flights from Georgetown to Hewanorra International Airport in St. Lucia, travelers can effortlessly pivot from the dense interior of the Guiana Shield to the crystalline Caribbean Sea.
An island stay at a property like Jade Mountain or Anse Chastanet Resort offers the perfect contrast. Think open-air suites tucked into lush hillsides, yoga pavilions overlooking the Pitons, and serene days spent swimming, snorkeling, or simply reclining. It’s a reward and a recalibration after the rugged beauty of the rainforest.
A man looks out at Kaieteur Falls
Photos courtesy iStock
| Corinne Kutz, Matteo Pillari on Unsplash
ITALY ISLAND EXTENSION:
Sardinia
Italy is a feast for the senses: Renaissance art in Florence, Baroque splendor in Rome, canals in Venice, and vineyard views in Tuscany. But after all the cultural deepdives, pasta feasts, and leisurely piazza strolls, Sardinia offers the most elegant of intermissions.
A short flight from mainland Italy, this island is known for its dramatic coastlines, crystalline waters, and distinctly Mediterranean rhythm. Sardinia's Costa Smeralda is home to glamorous beach resorts, while the interior reveals ancient Nuragic ruins and slow-food villages.
For the luxury traveler, this island is a way to rebalance. You’ve taken in centuries of history; now, let your senses be soothed by salt air, sea views, and simple luxuries like a long lunch of bottarga and Vermentino, a swim in a secluded cala, and the sound of nothing but the breeze through juniper trees.
On the beach in Sardinia
AUSTRALIA ISLAND EXTENSION:
Lord Howe Island
Australia is vast, varied, and endlessly compelling. From the buzz of Sydney and Melbourne (see a list of our favorite hotels on page 80) to the sacred landscapes of the Red Centre and the reef-fringed rainforests of Queensland, it’s a destination that rewards exploration.
Yet even the most enriching journeys can leave you longing for a pause. Just two hours by plane from Sydney, Lord Howe Island is a remote jewel that feels like another world. With only 400 visitors allowed at a time, and no mobile reception in parts, it offers the ultimate luxury: pure serenity.
This UNESCO-protected island is a treasure trove of natural wonders—volcanic peaks, subtropical forests, and the world’s southernmost coral reef. Stay at Capella Lodge, where fine dining meets barefoot ambiance, and days unfold between reef dives, nature hikes, and panoramic spa treatments. As your final stop, it’s not just an escape. It’s an elevation.
READY TO EXTEND?
In a world where luxury travel increasingly values meaning and mindfulness over material excess, island extensions offer something profound: space. Space to reflect on the richness of your journey. Space to reset your body before returning to routine. Space to experience a destination that complements rather than competes with the one before it.
So, if you're curating a journey rich in culture, nature, or discovery, don’t overlook the power of an island break. Let your next great adventure end not with a rush to the airport, but with a barefoot walk along the water's edge. You’ve earned it.
Island walks at Capella Lodge
Photo courtesy of Capella Lodge; James Vodicka
Soludos Dali Mule Espadrilles
Packing shoes is always a space-killer, but the Soludos
Dali Mule Espadrilles are worth bringing. These packable, light, and versatile espadrilles can be worn on the plane, to the pool, or to a seaside dinner.
Men's and women's styles starting from $75 soludos.com
SOL LABS Natural Mineral SPF 30
Daily Sunscreen Lotion
ISLAND-PACKING ESSENTIALS
Hitting the islands before heading home? See what products we are loving right now for sand, surf, and sun.
BY AMY WILLIS
Nourish skin while protecting it from damaging UVA/UVB rays with SOL LABS natural mineral SPF 30 sunscreen. Created from its Fountain of Youth Formula, containing powerhouse antioxidants for protection, hyaluronic acid for hydration, and niacinamide for calming skin, this water-resistant and reef-friendly sunscreen is essential.
$38 | sollabs.co
Left On Friday Swimwear
Left On Friday has made a splash in the bathing suit industry. With various cuts to mix and match, vibrant colors to show personality, and size options to fit all body types, the perfect suit is finally here. Made with buttery-soft fabric and smoothing coverage, this will be the most comfortable and flattering bathing suit you own.
Streamline suit $180 leftonfriday.com
Away Beach Tote
Stow this Away Beach Tote at the bottom of your luggage to keep your beach essentials organized on arrival. The water-resistant and quick-drying mesh fabric shakes off sand, and the various pockets, including a water-bottle holder, will keep everything in its place and easy to find.
$125 | awaytravel.com
LESTRANGE The Lido
Stripe Cuban Collar Shirt
When traveling to warm destinations, linen is a go-to. Men will look stylish and keep cool in LESTRANGE’s Cuban Collar Shirt. With its relaxed fit and breathable cotton and linen blend, this shirt can be worn to the beach and then to dinner with ease.
$163 | lestrangelondon.com
TOKYO,
THEN AND NOW
After two decades away, Ker & Downey’s Vanessa Niven returns to Japan’s capital, rediscovering its neon energy, timeless traditions, and her own evolving connection to the city.
My plane touches down in Tokyo, and I am suddenly awash with memories of my study abroad year in Japan in 2005. While I was based in Nagoya at the time, I took multiple trips to Tokyo by shinkansen (bullet train) to explore the city’s famous sights and sounds. Now, I am returning not just to a city, but to a version of myself from 20 years ago.
From my Shibuya hotel room window, I am once again awed by the neon lights, bright signage of department stores, and mind-boggling skyline. The sheer scale of the city still takes my breath away. Tokyo, a city that never stops changing, was calling me back, but would the city remember me? And would I recognize it?
It turns out that, while Tokyo has evolved considerably in 20 years, I can always count on Japan’s ancient history to keep me grounded. The morning after my arrival, I head out with a guide to the Imperial Palace Gardens, which shows many signs of life despite the dormancy associated with January
weather. I did not have a chance to walk the park when I last visited Tokyo, but this time, I am lucky enough to spot a white crane—an auspicious sign in Japanese culture—standing stock-still in a pond full of koi. The quiet beauty of the gardens feels like a whispered reminder that even in winter, life continues just below the surface.
Senso-ji Temple, also known as Asakusa Kannon, and the bustling Nakamise Shopping Arcade are our next stop. When I first came to this temple and market, I spotted a few tourists from other countries. However, most visitors were Japanese, seeking a blessing from Kannon, the bodhisattva of compassion, as well as some cute souvenirs to bring home. (Personally, I brought home about a dozen magnets and keychains to hand out as souvenirs to my family.) Now, the temple and shopping arcade are filled with diverse visitors, many of whom are experiencing the delectable Japanese street food and snacks found here for the first time. The ichigo ame (sugar-glazed strawberries) served on a stick are a particularly popular treat, offered at many of the Nakamise stalls.
Tokyo
"I FIRST CAME TO TOKYO AS A YOUNG TRAVELER SEEKING NOVELTY AND ADVENTURE. THIS TIME, I FIND MEANING IN THE DETAILS."
Another highlight, of course, is Ginza. It has always been a popular neighborhood for high-end and boutique shopping, and very little has changed except for the relocation of a few well-known storefronts. Two decades ago, I was terrified of entering one of these boutiques—I felt my student lifestyle precluded me from even window shopping. As an adult, I recognize the depth of craftsmanship and enter with ease, lingering in each store as an experience to be savored rather than an aspiration kept at arm’s length. Spending time in these hushed, elegant spaces feels almost meditative, a pause from the city’s restless energy.
Tokyo is also one of the world’s most renowned destinations for fine dining, as well as a hub for unique food experiences. On a student budget, I had to find cheap eats on my first few visits to Tokyo. This was mostly limited to street food and fast-food chains (Mos Burger, I’m looking at you).
Fast-forward to 2025, and I have the pleasure of experiencing everything from Michelinstarred vegan cuisine to innovative shojinryori (Buddhist cuisine) and a luxurious kaiseki (Kyoto imperial style) meal that felt like a poem, each dish seeming to represent its own stanza. Personal favorites include a high-end sushi experience and an incredible sukiyaki lunch served counter-side at a tiny Michelinrecommended restaurant in Toranomon. The artistry, precision, and seasonality of Japanese cuisine still astonish me, and now I have the means to indulge in it fully.
I first came to Tokyo as a young traveler seeking novelty and adventure. This time, I find meaning in the details. The city has changed, but so have I. Gone are the silly notions of my youth, giving way to a new appreciation of the harmony between ancient and modern, offering a sense of peace amid the constant motion of one of the world’s largest cities. Standing on a quiet side street as the scent of fresh yakitori drifts from a tiny izakaya and the distant hum of a Shinkansen echoes through the night, I feel utterly present— rooted in the Tokyo of today, yet still connected to the one I knew twenty years ago.
Ginza
A chef preparing sushi
Sukiyaki
Photos courtesy of Tianshu Liu, John on Unsplash
WHERE TO STAY
Here are just a few of our recommendations for highend stays in Tokyo.
THE PRINCE GALLERY KIOICHO
A soaring sanctuary with sweeping city views, The Prince Gallery Kioicho blends contemporary Japanese design with refined service. Spacious rooms, a serene spa, and exceptional dining create an urban retreat just steps from Tokyo’s vibrant cultural and shopping districts.
THE PENINSULA TOKYO
Overlooking the Imperial Palace Gardens and Hibiya Park, The Peninsula Tokyo offers timeless luxury with top-notch service. Elegant rooms, award-winning dining, and an indulgent spa make it a sophisticated haven for discerning travelers in the heart of Marunouchi. Additionally, the hotel’s massive and carefully curated art collection makes for a delightfully reflective stay.
PALACE HOTEL TOKYO
An icon of understated elegance, Palace Hotel Tokyo pairs serene interiors with panoramic views of the Imperial Palace moat and gardens. Acclaimed restaurants, a world-class spa, and impeccable hospitality define this urban oasis steeped in Japanese refinement.
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL TOKYO AT OTEMACHI
Perched high above the city, Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi captivates with sweeping skyline and Mount Fuji views. Sleek modern design, Michelinstarred dining, and a tranquil spa offer a luxurious respite in the capital’s bustling business district. Don’t miss cocktails at VIRTÚ, the hotel’s destination bar ranked the No. 11 best bar in Asia and the No. 42 best bar in the world.
Dining at the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi
The entrance to the The Peninsula Tokyo
Esterre at Palace Hotel Tokyo
Photos courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi | The Peninsula Tokyo | Palace Hotel Tokyo
DESTINATIONS
The World of Ker & Downey
Sundowners at Uga Chena Huts in Sri Lanka
AFRICA
WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING
"The trip was outstanding! The locations were wonderful and varied, the accommodations were incredible, the people were super friendly and hospitable, and the flights were well-orchestrated and interesting. You cleverly structured the trip so that each place was more luxurious than the previous. The guides were capable and friendly, and we had amazing safari experiences. Thank you very much for your planning and help."
WHERE
WE TRAVEL TO
EASTERN
Botswana
Ethiopia
Kenya
Madagascar
Mauritius
Mozambique
Namibia
WESTERN
Benin
Gabon
Ghana Republic of the Congo
& SOUTHERN
Rwanda
Seychelles
South Africa
Tanzania
Uganda
Zambia
Zimbabwe
São Tomé and Príncipe
Senegal
Togo
Feature Article A WORLD APART
"We had the most incredible experience in Uganda from start to finish. The lodging, food, and hospitality were amazing. But most of all, the service was beyond belief because of the people. The bush breakfast was out of this world."
MADAGASCAR
A Masai woman at Elewana Tarangire Treetops
A WORLD APART
Discover Africa’s hidden sanctuary on a journey to Madagascar.
BY HALEY BEHAM
Baobab excursion in Madagascar
Africa is a jewel of a continent. Whether it’s the Big Five of South Africa, the dunes of Namibia, the Okavango Delta in Botswana, the Great Migration in Kenya and Tanzania, or the gorillas of Rwanda and Uganda, every country offers travelers something unique and special.
For those intrepid enough to travel there, Madagascar is also a rewarding destination. The world’s fourth-largest island is a world of its own, both geographically and experientially. You won’t find mass tourism here. Instead, you’ll find miles of solitude on sandy beaches and forests alive with the sounds of birdsong, rustling leaves, and the haunting calls of the rare indri lemurs.
As Ker & Downey Travel Designer Jamie Bell explains, “Everyone always thinks about Madagascar for the lemurs, which is great, but there’s so much more to see than just the lemurs. It’s all the little things you’ll get to experience.”
That's because traveling to Madagascar isn’t about ticking a box; it’s about traveling deeper. It’s a land where curiosity is rewarded through slow, immersive discovery. This is Africa, reimagined.
You won’t find mass tourism here. Instead, you’ll find miles of solitude on sandy beaches and forests alive with the sounds of birdsong, rustling leaves, and the haunting calls of the rare indri lemurs.
A lemur in Madagascar
Helicopter excursion over Madagascar
Red Tsingy helicopter tour
WILD, RAW, UNTAMED
To call Madagascar a naturalist’s paradise is an understatement; it is one of the world’s most remarkable biological treasures. Ninety percent of Madagascar’s flora and fauna exist nowhere else on earth. In fact, nearly all of its mammals are endemic to the island, including its iconic lemurs, the world’s smallest chameleons, and the fossa. What is perhaps even more fascinating is that scientists continue to discover new species each year. And of Madagascar’s more than 285 bird species, about 100 can only be found on the island. This level of endemism rivals that of the Galapágos Islands and has earned it the recognition as the “eighth continent” among biologists and conservationists.
This biological richness stems from Madagascar’s variety of ecosystems. In the east, the rainforests of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park are draped in orchids and ferns. The park is home to some of Madagascar’s most famous creatures, including chameleons the size of your thumb and the indri lemur, known for their teddy-bear faces, black-and-white markings, and haunting calls. Mouse lemurs, endemic frogs, leaftailed geckos, and night-blooming orchids can all be seen on a night walk through the rainforest.
Meanwhile, the spiny forests of the south are an otherworldly landscape, dominated by massive baobab trees and forests of octopus trees. The arid wilderness is home to wildlife such as ring-tailed lemurs and Ver-
reaux’s sifaka. For the Antandroy and Mahafaly people, these forests are situated near sacred sites with numerous ancient tombs in the vicinity.
In the west, limestone karsts in Tsingy de Bemaraha rise beyond 100 feet tall, carved by erosion and karst processes over 200 million years. The limestone pinnacles create a world of canyons, caves, and suspension bridges that feel otherworldly.
“It has the most stunning landscape I’ve ever seen, especially the tsingy formations and the spiny forests,” says Bell, who recently visited the island nation. “The area is over 200 million years old, and they’ve had a few hundred visitors, so I feel very privileged to have been able to explore it. It is a very unique part of the world and a totally different experience. I loved every minute of exploring.”
Along the coasts, mangrove forests and coral reefs add a marine dimension to Madagascar's biological richness. The waters surrounding Nosy Be off the northwest coast are alive with color. Whale sharks glide through the waters, while reef sharks patrol the coral gardens. From July to September, the waters off Île Sainte-Marie serve as a highway for humpback whales, which arrive from the Antarctic feeding grounds to give birth in the warm coastal waters.
Underwater life
WHERE LUXURY MEETS THE WILD
Madagascar is raw and wild, but that doesn’t mean you’re roughing it. The island nation boasts a wealth of luxury properties nestled among lush trees, on secluded private islands, and along tranquil rivers. Our favorite properties in Madagascar share a common thread: they are designed to immerse you in the island’s magic while delivering impeccable comfort and service. The lodges range from castaway chic to the pinnacle of luxury and exclusivity, but all are intimate in scale, offer personalized service, and are seamlessly integrated into the natural environment. Relaxing in overwater hammocks, kayaking quiet coves, and dining on a private sandbank under a starry sky are just some of the experiences you can expect.
Take, for example, Miavana by Time + Tide. The ultraluxury lodge is located on the largest of five islands in a remote archipelago off the northeastern coast of Madagascar. It is accessible only by helicopter from Diego Suarez (Antsiranana) and Nosy Be airports. The island sanctuary offers spacious villas with infinity pools and curated adventures like snorkeling with sea turtles, reef diving, and helicopter safaris over the baobab forests and tsingy formations. With a high staff-to-guest ratio, you can expect a highly personalized stay with staff who anticipate your every need.
Masoala Forest Lodge, accessible only by boat, is situated on the densely forested Masoala Peninsula, where the “rainforest meets the ocean.” Located in a private reserve within Masoala National Park, guests have the unique opportunity to take a night walk, which is usually banned in national parks, giving them a chance to spot nocturnal wildlife. During migration season, humpback whales can also be spotted off the coast of the lodge’s pristine beaches.
Anjajavy Le Lodge embodies sophisticated safari luxury on the Great Red Island's northwest coast. Set within a pristine private reserve spanning 1,112 acres, this remote sanctuary is accessible only by private aircraft, ensuring complete exclusivity. Guests can venture out on a traditional dhow sailing excursion to nearby beaches or take a guided walk in search of the rare golden-crowned sifaka lemur.
In the south, Mandrare River Camp provides an authentic safari experience along the banks of the seasonal Mandrare River. This eco-luxury camp consists of spacious canvas tents elevated on wooden platforms, offering panoramic views of the spiny forest landscape. The property serves as an ideal base for encountering Madagascar's signature wildlife, including ring-tailed lemurs, radiated tortoises, and more than 100 bird species. Meanwhile, knowledgeable naturalist guides share insight into the distinctive Antandroy culture.
PERFECT ITINERARY
PAIRINGS
While Madagascar is a standalone destination, it also combines seamlessly with other mainland destinations in Africa. Pair it with South Africa for a wine and wilderness journey. Spend time in the Winelands, enjoy a Big Five safari, and explore the wild lands of Madagascar on one epic trip. Similarly, pair it with a safari to Kenya and Tanzania to enjoy some beach time at the end of a safari.
Photos courtesy of Miavana by Time + Tide
Miavana Villa
“Island-hop through the Indian Ocean for a beach-meets-thewild adventure, with stays in Mauritius, the Seychelles, and concluding in Madagascar.”
- Haley Beham, Lead Content Strategist
JOURNEY BEYOND THE ORDINARY
Madagascar rewards the curious traveler with intimate experiences that can’t be replicated anywhere else on earth. It holds mysteries and magic for those bold enough to seek them out.
SEE OUR LATEST MADAGASCAR ITINERARIES
Nosy Ankao Village
NORTH AFRICA & MIDDLE EAST
Feature Article BEYOND THE PYRAMIDS
Spotlighting our philanthropic partners in Egypt
WHERE WE TRAVEL TO
NORTH AFRICA
EGYPT
MOROCCO
TUNISIA
MIDDLE EAST
IRAN ISRAEL JORDAN OMAN
QATAR
SAUDI ARABIA UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING
“We had an amazing trip and truly enjoyed every day, which was unique, fun, and memorable. Dubai and the rest of the UAE were absolutely amazing. Thank you and your team for working so hard to create the vacation of a lifetime.”
"The highest compliment I can pay you is that my 20-year-old son came back and said it was truly the trip of a lifetime. The guide really made the trip—he was just amazing. Kind, gracious, and so knowledgeable. No delays, no hiccups, everything was so smooth.”
BEYOND THE PYRAMIDS
Protecting Egypt’s working animals with Brooke Egypt.
BY RINA CHANDARANA
Working horses in Cairo at the Pyramids
Egypt’s ancient wonders attract travelers from around the world. But beyond the temples and pyramids, a quieter story unfolds. Ker & Downey’s Travel Designer, Nicole Porto, has visited Egypt several times and has always been moved by the harsh conditions faced by working animals across the country. Her experience highlights a growing need for responsible tourism. Supporting that effort is Brooke Egypt, an organization working to improve the lives of 1.7 million donkeys, horses, and mules—and the communities that depend on them.
EQUINES IN EGYPT
Drawn by Egypt’s rich history and vibrant culture, travelers embark on unforgettable journeys—among them, Porto, who keeps returning year after year.
“I was in love with North Africa from the moment I stepped foot on the continent, but the more I traveled throughout the region, I started noticing the condition of the animals I was seeing everywhere— along the side of the road, in busy cities, at tourist attractions like the Temple of Edfu, or around the pyramids at Giza, often with little rest or proper care.”
Faced with this, Porto was heartbroken. “The last thing I’d want to do is ride a sad, underfed horse through the hot desert or take a horse-drawn cart through the loud, congested city streets.”
It was a striking reminder of how easily animals can be overlooked in the pursuit of profit. “I know that using work horses is part of the North African culture, and tourists are always going to want to take pictures of them at the pyramids, but it’s crucial that the community, and children as stewards of the future, are taught to recognize the needs of these animals.”
WORKING FOR ANIMALS
Brooke Egypt’s mission is to improve animal welfare for the country's approximately 1.7 million working donkeys, horses, and mules. These animals do a range of work from carrying goods like cement and bricks, working in agricultural lands in punishing heat, and carrying tourists. The owners depend on these hardworking animals for their livelihoods.
All around the world, millions of people rely on working equines to put food on their tables and send their children to school. However, these animals suffer from malnutrition, disease, and exhaustion due to inadequate resources. The Brooke family of charities, including Brooke Egypt, works to create long-lasting improvements in the lives of both the animals and their owners. By educating the owners on proper animal welfare and providing access to nutrition, clean water, a comfortable environment, and health treatments, both can thrive together.
One example of their success is in Helwan, northeast of Cairo, where temperatures can soar to 120° Fahrenheit. Here, equines transport bricks to and from the baking ovens. Life is very difficult for both the animals and their owners, with the animals suffering from malnutrition, dehydration, harness injuries, and exhaustion. To ease this burden, Brooke Egypt provides free veterinary care in the brick kilns—offering deworming, vaccinations, and community education in animal welfare. Because of these efforts, the lives of the equines have considerably improved. A covered stable has been built with feeding and water troughs, and the donkeys are now used in turns, ensuring they receive time to rest.
A donkey in Cairo
A doctor provides veterinary care to a horse.
“As soon as I learned about Brooke, I knew that was the project I wanted to get behind for our Middle East and North Africa philanthropy at Ker & Downey.”
- Nicole Porto, Ker & Downey Travel Designer
VETERINARY CARE
Brooke delivers veterinary care through five permanent clinics and 25 mobile units, reaching nearly 220,000 equines each year. But the charity’s roots go back to 1930, when British horsewoman Dorothy Brooke moved to Cairo and discovered the grim fate of former British war horses, which were shipped to Egypt after World War I and left to suffer in poor conditions. Determined to help, she raised funds to rescue and retire 5,000 of these animals. In 1934, she founded the Old War Horse Memorial Hospital in Cairo, offering free care to working equines—a mission that continues to this day.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Rural guides, respected local women with strong community ties, play a vital role in spreading animal welfare messages. In regions like Edfu and Aswan, Brooke Hospital for Animals teams work closely with them to reach women in households, who are often responsible for caring for the animals during their rest periods.
In communities where animals are an integral part of daily life, children often serve as primary caretakers—working in fields, at construction sites, or navigating city streets with donkeys or horse carts. Recognizing their influence, Brooke Hospital for Animals Egypt engages these young caretakers through school visits, practical lessons, and creative activities like writing and drawing competitions to foster compassion and awareness around animal welfare.
TRAVEL THAT GIVES BACK
"As soon as I learned about Brooke, I knew that was the project I wanted to get behind for our Middle East and North Africa philanthropy at Ker & Downey,” says Porto. And since, Brooke Egypt has been added to our growing portfolio of philanthropic partners.
Raising awareness is essential to supporting the mission. One simple way travelers can help is by choosing not to ride horses, donkeys, or carriages when animal welfare is in question. Additionally, every trip booked to North Africa and the Middle East through Ker & Downey World Travel helps fund efforts to improve the lives of working equines in Egypt.
ASIA
BHUTAN
Feature Article
SOUL-STIRRING
SRI LANKA
CAMBODIA
CHINA
INDIA
INDONESIA JAPAN KAZAKHSTAN LAOS MALAYSIA MALDIVES
WHERE WE TRAVEL TO WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING
MONGOLIA
NEPAL
PHILIPPINES
SINGAPORE
SOUTH KOREA
"We had an absolutely extraordinary time in Vietnam, Siem Reap, and Bangkok. Every arrangement, hotel, and guide—all superbly done. We could not have hoped for a better-organized and more meaningful use of time. And we owe it all to you and the countries we visited. All of this to say, thank you so very much for all your time, effort, and patience. We are just so grateful to you."
SRI LANKA
THAILAND
VIETNAM
UZBEKISTAN
"Wow. What a fabulous trip in every respect. We were able to do so many things because it was so organized and efficient. The people in Japan are so polite, helpful, and organized. Thank you for the many hours of planning. We could not have been happier with our local guides. They were spectacular in every respect. Kudos to the whole team. You have spoiled us beyond our dreams."
SOUL-STIRRING SRI LANKA
Social Media Manager Rina Chandarana goes on an immersive journey of this island nation, awakening her senses and spirit.
Riding the train through Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a hidden gem, surprisingly still off the travel radar for sun seekers opting for nearby Maldives (it’s only a 45-minute flight away) or India for its cultural immersion.
But as Ker & Downey’s Social Media Manager Rina Chandarana discovers, the island nation is packed with tropical delights, Buddhist history, exquisite properties, and a variety of landscapes.
WARM WELCOME
“Ayubowan,” says my guide Ajit. “This means wishing you good health, happiness, and long life.”
I become well acquainted with this word during my journey across this special island. Strangers in Kandy’s lively markets and those strolling casually in tiny hillside villages all take a moment to greet me with a broad smile, hands folded in prayer.
Despite struggling with a history of colonial rule, years of civil war, and economic crises, Sri Lankans are the friendliest and most welcoming locals I’ve ever met on my travels.
WILD AND FREE
On my first night at Uga Chena Huts just outside Yala National Park, we come across a lone elephant tugging shrubs from the dry earth, effortlessly feeding himself with his powerful trunk. The massive bull calmly approaches our safari vehicle, curious about the quiet observers interrupting his dinner. I sit in awe, humbled by the sheer presence of such a majestic creature. Later, as we enjoy sundowners by the lagoon, the sky shifts from fiery pinks and oranges to a deep indigo, revealing a dazzling stretch of Milky Way stars—a moment that deepens my reverence for the natural world.
At dawn, I set off on a short drive into Yala. As we bump along rugged trails flanked by rocky outcrops, we search for the elusive leopard. Along the way, vibrant peacocks strut past, graceful deer graze in the brush, and wild boars trot through the undergrowth. Our guide, Gayan, shares stories of the 5,000 monks who once sought solitude in these ancient hills, carving out lives of quiet devotion among the stone crevices. We pause at a bend in the dusty road as two elephants emerge ahead, jogging gently into the brush. Later, by a murky lagoon, we snack on flaky pastries filled with curried vegetables while counting still-as-statues crocodiles, their jaws agape in eerie silence. Suddenly, a sharp, shrill cry pierces the air—a warning call from a deer. A leopard is near.
Back at camp, I wander down to the wind-swept beach. I’m told an elephant strolled by just the day before and I spot the prints, proof of wild visitors.
Further south, Amanwella in Tangalle sits on a serene coconut estate, blending seamlessly into the tropical rhythm of the island. I sink my feet into the sand, soft as clouds, closing my eyes with appreciation as the waves crash around my legs. Sri Lanka feels like heaven.
SPIRITUAL CONNECTION
We continue our journey into Sri Lanka’s lofty highlands, pausing at a towering waterfall cascading down a rugged mountainside. “Legend has it that Ravana hid Sita in a cave at the top,” Ajit shares, connecting myth to landscape.
Later, I step barefoot into the Seetha Amman Temple, a sacred site that draws Hindu pilgrims as they trace the footsteps of the Ramayana. As a Hindu raised with the stories of Ram, Sita, and Hanuman, I feel a wave of emotion as I bow my head in prayer. The priest gently marks my forehead with red kumkum, and a monkey perched nearby meets my gaze, almost knowingly. Tears of gratitude well in my eyes. To stand in this holy place is more than a moment; it is a homecoming. Sri Lanka touches my soul.
An Asian elephant
Game drives at Uga Chena Huts
The bar at Uga Chena Huts
Photos courtesy of Uga Chena Huts
And I am not alone in that feeling. In Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth, where Buddha’s tooth is believed to be enshrined within a golden stupa, reverent silence meets the sweet scent of jasmine. Devotees murmur prayers, and new mothers cradle their babies—many making their very first outing—for a blessing. The air is thick with faith, tradition, and the timeless rhythm of devotion.
"To stand in this holy place is more than a moment; it is a homecoming. Sri Lanka touches my soul."
BODY AND MIND
Mornings at the award-winning Santani Wellness Resort in Kandy begin not with the jolt of an alarm, but with the gentle echo of Buddhist chants drifting over cloud-kissed hills and waking valleys. In Sri Lanka, nothing feels rushed—only unraveled, slowly and soulfully. At the open-air yoga shala, the scent of incense curls through the morning air beside a serene statue of Krishna. Dressed in simple white cotton, the instructor, forehead marked with sacred ash, opens the session with a quiet prayer, guiding us through meditation and soft, mindful stretches. It’s a far cry from the fluorescent-lit yoga classes I’m used to back home. This is the real thing, deeply rooted and reverent.
Meals at Santani are a creative celebration of nature, prepared with mushrooms and vegetables grown right on the property. During a session with the in-house Ayurvedic doctor, my pulse is read with practiced precision. I'm told I’m a vatapitta type, and offered simple, grounding lifestyle advice to bring balance to both my body and mind. It’s a reminder that wellness, here, is not a trend but a way of life.
Rina Chandarana at Malabar Hill
Seetha Amman Temple
FRESH FOOD
In the bustling markets, women in vibrant sarees and flowing sarongs weave through stalls bursting with the most abundant display of fruits and vegetables I’ve ever seen. Meals here are best enjoyed with your hands—crispy hoppers served alongside beetroot, green beans, potatoes, and lentils simmered in fragrant coconut milk, infused with curry leaves. Local women share a beauty secret: gotu kola, a leafy green gently cooked with shredded coconut, is believed to boost collagen and promote healthy skin and hair.
At Weligama’s Malabar Hill, nestled among lush paddy fields, a man pauses to show us a basket overflowing with fresh produce grown right on the land.
On the train ride to Kandy, we glide past rolling hills carpeted with lush tea plantations, first introduced by the British who brought the crop from Assam. The region's rich soil and cool climate make it perfect for cultivating high-quality tea, which is harvested year-round. This scenic railway was originally built to transport the now worldfamous brew. To escape the tropical heat, the British established the charming hill town of Nuwara Eliya, with its serene lakes, grazing horses, manicured lawns, and blooming rose gardens. I can almost picture a British gentleman in a crisp suit enjoying a freshly brewed cup amidst the mountain air.
Despite the intense humidity, I always feel refreshed because of the abundance of king coconut water.
Even the fruit comes with its own healing powers. “This is soursop— packed with health benefits,” our guide explains, holding up the spiky green fruit he has just picked from the lush tangle of foliage, which is also brimming with peppercorn, turmeric, cloves, and hibiscus.
In Galle, I wander the storied lanes, their coral-stone paving designed to absorb the surrounding sea’s moisture. This coastal fortress town, once a bustling port, has seen centuries of global intrigue. The Portuguese arrived in the 16th century, followed by the Dutch East India Company, both drawn by Sri Lanka’s legendary wealth in spices, especially black pepper and cinnamon. At the time, cinnamon was so prized that it was traded like gold, and exotic animals were shipped from this very harbor to the far corners of Europe. As I stroll past colonial buildings and sun-washed walls, I can almost hear the echoes of merchants and sailors, their ships once heavy with treasure.
FOREVER CHANGED
With its vibrant culture and richly layered cuisine, I find myself wondering how I will return to the muted rhythm of life back home after experiencing Sri Lanka’s breathtaking spectrum of color and flavor.
They say travel changes you, and Sri Lanka most certainly does. My time here teaches me so much about inner well-being, especially through Ayurvedic practices and immersion in nature. Staying connected to my spiritual roots and using plants and meditation for healing brings a deep sense of balance and clarity; lessons I will carry with me long after I return home.
A local market
Photos courtesy of Amanwella
Pius Martin, Morgan Nott on Unsplash
Amanwella
NORTH AMERICA
Feature Article SURPRISES OF THE SPICE ISLAN D
WHERE WE TRAVEL TO GRENADA
CANADA
MEXICO
THE CARIBBEAN ISLANDS
UNITED STATES
WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING
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SURPRISES OF THE SPICE ISLAND
Writer
many natural wonders, both above and below the Caribbean waters.
Lauren Kramer unveils Grenada's
Grand Anse Beach, Grenada
It’s choppy in Grenada’s Moliniere Bay, and as I try to summon the courage to slip off the side of the boat, I’m thinking the dark water looks nothing like the turquoise blue I saw from the window of the plane that brought me here. Snorkel in mouth, I splash over the edge and glance down through misty goggles. There’s a female figure standing 15 feet below me on the ocean floor.
Her name is Sienna, and she is one of 75 submerged sculptures placed in this bay by a British sculptor and scuba diver. Jason de Caires Taylor blended twin passions for diving and sculpture to create unusual underwater art galleries, the first of which was established in Moliniere Bay in 2006 and is listed as one of National Geographic’s 25 Wonders of the World.
Snorkel, scuba dive, or take a glassbottomed boat around the bay, and you move over these fascinating life-size artworks, placed at depths ranging from 15 to 25 feet. The pieces of art are a canvas through which Taylor explores Caribbean legends. One sculpture, La Diablesse, depicts a devil woman with a skull-like face. Grenadian folklore has it that she lures men to follow her in the night, eventually leading them to a cliff where they jump to their deaths. The Lost Correspondent is a sculpture of a local dive master sitting at a desk, while Grace Reef features 16 casts of a Grenadian woman lying down. In another installation, 26 life-size children stand in a circle, holding hands.
Taylor hoped the sculptures would promote coral growth and provide a habitat for marine life, and it’s clear by the corals growing prolifically and the fish nibbling from them, that he succeeded.
Fish aren’t the only ones who come to experience Grenada’s delicacies. The island’s simple charm and serenity attract travelers in increasing numbers. Some come to lie on the beach and soak in a Caribbean suntan, but there’s plenty of adventure for those seeking a more active vacation.
I don hiking shoes and head for the Grand Etang Forest Reserve, located in the steep roads of the island’s interior. My trail wends its way through lush rainforest laced with the glint of red balisier plants and towering bamboo. I pass trees heavy with nutmeg, one of the island’s foremost spices, and fields of callalou, a nutrientrich plant easily mistaken for spinach at dinner later that night. A half hour later, at the Seven Sisters Waterfall, I gladly shed my clothes and plunge into the cool water, grateful for the respite from the heat.
The breeze is welcome in the late afternoon as my car climbs to a precipice on the island known as Leapers Hill. As history tells it, Frenchmen from Martinique tried to buy land on Grenada from the Caribs, who inhabited the island at the time. The Caribs refused to sell, and battles ensued, killing all but 40 Caribs. Faced with slavery to the French, they jumped to their deaths from a cliff at Grenada’s northern end, now known as Morne des Sauteurs or Leapers Hill.
That’s the history book version, at any rate. As the sunlight shimmers off the water some 100 feet above the ocean, my tour guide tells a different, but no less tragic story. “The Caribs had two choices: massacre by cannon
or jumping to their deaths,” he says. “When the site was excavated, portable cannons were found that suggest the only alternative to death by cannon was a suicide jump off the cliff.”
With the Grenadine Islands in the distance and the turquoise water below, it’s hard to imagine the brutality and bloodshed that occurred here a few hundred years ago. Today, the only possible trouble brewing is Kick ’em Jenny, one of the most active Caribbean volcanoes. Situated 615 feet beneath the sea surface, it has erupted 13 times since 1939, most recently in 2017.
The Seismic Research Unit at the University of the West Indies monitors its activity carefully, but the Grenadians don’t seem worried. Being in the hurricane belt, they’ve seen their share of natural disasters. With each adversity, though, Grenada and its people recover, building resilience and stronger infrastructure.
There are so many reasons to visit and explore a country that is full of surprises. There are landscapes so densely covered with foliage that they look like the backdrop to Jurassic Park. Fishermen with skin wizened by the sun sell their daily catch from the back of a truck, blowing through a conch shell to attract the attention of residents. Islanders often share their meals, grilling their seafood over an open flame outside their homes in a ritual fondly known in the local dialect as an oil-down. And Grenada’s produce is legendary. At Spice Island Beach Resort, the breakfast buffet includes nutmeg yogurt with guava jelly. At the local markets, I shop for cinnamon, cloves, ginger, allspice, and, of course, nutmeg.
Photos courtesy of Hugh Whyte, Tyler
Gooding on Unsplash |
Grenada Scuba
An underwater sculpture park in Moliniere Bay
Nutmeg
A highlight of my visit is heading to Levera Beach in the pitch darkness of night, where I watch critically endangered leatherback turtles during nesting season.
I hear her first, a soft snorting sound coming from the sand five feet from where I am sitting. As my eyes gradually acclimate to the dark, I make out the movement of flippers gently thudding on the sand. A massive leatherback mama is preparing a nest three feet into the moist sand, deftly using her hind flippers to excavate an egg chamber.
It takes two hours on winding, stomach-lurching roads to reach Levera Beach, on Grenada’s northernmost point. But if you get the opportunity to experience it, don’t hesitate. This is the only place in the country where you can watch a leatherback turtle deposit a basketful of eggs into the sand, and the sight will fill you with awe, leave you with deep respect for the turtle, and awaken a commitment to its preservation against odds that seem insurmountable.
In the 20th century, leatherbacks declined in number by 20 percent, with man being their greatest predator. It doesn’t help that although the turtles are prolific egg-layers, the odds of a hatchling’s survival are incredibly slim. The night before my visit, nine turtles clambered up the shore, laying more than 1,000 eggs. Of those, only one hatchling is likely to reach adulthood.
This mother turtle must be aware on some level of the low survival rate, for her nest is meticulously crafted, and she stops only when she is certain that the moist crevice is free of roots, shells, or any other debris that might harm her hatchlings. Perched on the edge, she starts to lay eggs, depositing up to five simultaneously and dropping them with a soft plod into the chamber. “She is deep in concentration, and her hormone levels are at their highest right now,” whispers our guide. I’m filled with wonder at this amazing creature who, in the coming months, will swim halfway around the world and plunge to depths of up to 3,900 feet.
Within 15 minutes, there are 123 eggs in the nest, and after a flipper-full of sand hits my face, I retreat to watch the turtle cover her nest and camouflage the hole. This is all she can do to protect her hatchlings, for she will not see them again, and no time or effort is spared for this process.
Our special red flashlights are off now, and the night envelops us and the turtle. In a dance-like motion, she begins compacting the sand around her hole, using her tail and all four flippers. When there is no trace of the hole or the eggs, she begins a slow, clumsy walk back to the ocean. Soundlessly, she enters the surf, and as the waves splash the sand from her shell, she is quickly swallowed by the water and on her way.
“If you are looking to see more of the Caribbean in a single trip, consider pairing a few nights in Grenada with time in St. Lucia, which is a quick one-hour direct flight.”- Catherine Brown, Travel Designer
What she doesn’t know is that, as carefully as she constructed her nest, poachers continue to emerge in the daylight, prodding the sand with long, thin sticks to find evidence of the hole. If they are not reported to the police by one of the fishermen on Levera Beach, they can easily ruin the night’s labors by finding the newly formed nests, unearthing their contents and selling the eggs on the black market as a delicacy long before the hatchlings even emerge.
Environmental organizations like Ocean Spirits are working to prevent this from happening, and by patrolling the beach at night and educating Grenadian schoolgoers, they’ve reduced poaching by 90 percent since their inception in 1999. Grenada is now recognized as one of the most important leatherback nesting sites in the region.
On other Caribbean islands, hotels and tourism have significant impacts on turtle nesting grounds, which are encroached by couples walking in the moonlight, by bright hotel lights that disorient the turtles, and by loud music. But Levera National Park envelops this 765-yard stretch of conch-strewn sand, and in the gentle darkness of night, it is peaceful, except for the sound of the crashing surf. Across the bay, a lone light shines from Sugarloaf Island, an uninhabited isle that rises like a perfect triangle from the ocean. And buried a few feet beneath the sand’s surface, thousands of embryonic turtles are nestled in sealed cocoons, awaiting just the right moment when they will hatch from their eggs, cooperatively dig their way to the surface, and begin their epic ocean journey.
PRO TIP!
A leatherback turtle
WHERE TO STAY ON Grenada
Silversands Beach House
A stylish boutique enclave on Portici Beach, offering an intimate atmosphere, contemporary design, and the signature sophistication of the Silversands brand. This exclusive 28-room hideaway features private pools, oceanfront lounging, and seamless access to its sister resort’s acclaimed spa and dining experiences.
The pool at Silversands Beach House
Photos courtesy of Six Senses
La
Sagesse
| Spice Island Beach Resort | Calabash Hotel
Silversands Beach House
Six Senses La Sagesse
Tucked away in a secluded bay, this sustainable sanctuary blends barefoot luxury with holistic wellness and Grenadian charm, redefining eco-conscious indulgence. Spanning 38 stylish pool suites and villas, the resort is centered around a wellness village with an open-air spa, farm-to-table dining, and immersive nature experiences.
Spice Island Beach Resort
Family-owned and all-inclusive, this iconic resort on Grand Anse Beach delivers timeless Caribbean hospitality with a polished, personal touch. Home to 64 spacious suites—some with private pools—the resort boasts gourmet cuisine, a serene spa, and a prime beachfront location perfect for effortless relaxation.
Calabash Hotel
At this refined Relais & Châteaux escape, every suite opens to tropical gardens or the Caribbean Sea, with impeccable service and fine dining steps from the sand. Featuring just 30 elegant suites and villas, the property offers a boutique atmosphere, a world-class spa, and one of the island’s most celebrated restaurants.
The pool at Six Senses La Sagesse
Spice Island Beach Resort
The penthouse living room at Calabash Hotel
CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA
WHERE WE TRAVEL TO
CENTRAL
Feature Article UNCHARTED & UNEXPECTED
WATER S
GUATEMALA & BELIZE
SOUTH BELIZE COSTA RICA GUATEMALA HONDURUS NICARAGUA PANAMA
ARGENTINA BOLIVIA BRAZIL CHILE COLOMBIA ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
FRENCH GUIANA GUYANA PERU SURINAME URUGUAY
WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING
"We had the most amazing time in Costa Rica! We loved the wildlife, accommodations, and activities, and we enjoyed hanging out with our guide Leo. No one wanted to come home. It was our best family trip to date. Thank you for planning such a great trip."
"Wowza! What an amazing adventure we had in Chile! Of course, beautiful beyond words. And [our guide] was super. So kind, knowledgeable on, well, everything—geology, history, plants, and animals. He rearranged our itinerary because he was mindful of the weather."
Costa Rica
UNCHARTED & UNEXPECTED WATER S
Lake Atitlán
Director of Product Management & Development Elizabeth Frels and Editor in Chief Amy Willis find new rhythms and tourist-free paradises along the waters of Lake Atitlán in Guatemala and the Caribbean Sea in Belize.
Guatemala and Belize are a natural pairing, with Guatemala’s colonial cities and archaeological adventures flowing seamlessly into Belize’s palmfringed beaches. On this journey, Elizabeth Frels discovers new rhythms along the shores of Lake Atitlán in Guatemala, while Amy Willis finds barefoot bliss on the Caribbean Sea in Belize. Together, their experiences demonstrate how the waters of both countries strike a balance between cultural depth and laid-back serenity—creating a slower pace of travel close to home.
LAKE ATITLÁN, GUATEMALA
Where am I? Lake Como?
That is my first thought as I catch sight of the beautiful scene passing by the window of my private speedboat.
It feels like I am uncovering a secret—that this mystically magical water is not, in fact, a ten-hour flight away in Italy. It is only a few hours south of the United States and in the same time zone as my hometown in Colorado.
In Guatemala.
Villa-lined hills rise from the mist, and mountains plunge into the lake in a way that confuses my internal map—yet I soon see this is where the likeness to Lake Como ends. This deep and dreamy lake in Central America holds something much more sacred. The Maya people have lived here since 2000 BCE, after all, and continue to cling to their traditions that span millennia.
I set out on an early morning kayaking excursion, when the smooth waters mirror the volcanoes that rise like sentinels around me. Locals say the lake holds secrets— ancient spirits beneath the surface, lost towns swallowed by its depths. But I jump into the water from my kayak anyway and immediately feel a sense of relief. There’s something deeply grounding about experiencing the lake this way, cradled between sky and water, surrounded by stories older than memory.
Later, I trade the kayak for hiking shoes and follow one of the narrow, timeworn footpaths that connect the towns around the lake. The Maya have used these trails for centuries. And as I huff and puff, Maya men and women effortlessly pass by carrying loads of wood in their tumpline, the strap secured to their forehead, and the nearly 100-pound load supported on their back.
I rest my weary feet and sunburned shoulders at Hotel Atitlán. From its expansive terraced gardens reaching down to the shoreline, the views of Lake Atitlán feel straight out of a dream. As I soak in my enviable location, a helicopter lands in front of me, shuttling VIPs from all over the country.
Nearby, I experience the thrill of zip-lining at Atitlán Nature Reserve and sample the delicious street food of Panajachel town. A tortilla-making class at the five-star Relais & Châteaux gem of Casa Palopó further introduces me to the Mayas’ singular take on this delicious staple, made only from ground corn, water, and salt.
Around the lake, a collection of villages highlights the diversity, industry, and devotion of the Maya people. No roads circle the lake, so the only way to reach most of them is by boat.
I disembark my boat in San Juan La Laguna, which feels like stepping into a living canvas where every wall is a mural and every street is a mosaic. At Casa Flor Ixcaco, I sit beside master weaver Ana, who shows me how to beat the cotton to make it soft, pull the cotton into threads of yarn, dye it by hand with natural dye made from gardenias, and work a traditional backstrap loom. In Santiago Atitlán, the local people blend their Catholic identity with their ancient Maya beliefs and the history of the conquistadors. Outside the grand colonial church, I am greeted by Magdalena—an elder with warm eyes and deep laugh lines—who demonstrates how the women here wrap their tocoyal, the traditional headdress worn by Tz’utujil Maya women for millennia. With practiced hands, she winds the long red ribbon around her silver hair in a spiraling crown, each turn a tribute to ancestry and identity.
I conclude my time in Lake Atitlán further afield in Chichicastenango, where color bombards my senses. The market here spills out in every direction on Thursdays and Sundays, wrapping around the whitewashed walls of the town’s iconic church. I lose track of time, weaving through the maze of stalls in search of napkins and mementos and stumble upon the lesser-visited vegetable market, which bursts with an orderly chaos of tomatoes, herbs, and chilies. Even the cemetery here reflects the town’s vivid embrace of color. The shades of the painted tombs each holds meaning about the life and role of the person laid to rest. Here, in "Chichi", every hue seems to tell a story.
I leave Lake Atitlán deeply moved, carrying the quiet power of its people, the warmth of their traditions, and the sacredness of the water itself. This isn’t a place you simply visit; it’s a place that imprints on you, that teaches you to slow down and breathe. From the women who weave stories into cloth to the volcanoes that stand as timeless guardians, the lake has a way of holding onto you long after you depart.
Just a one-hour flight east, Amy Willis takes to a different, albeit bigger, body of water: the Caribbean Sea.
Photos courtesy of Christopher Garcia, Esteban Benites, Mana on Unsplash
Magdalena in Santiago Atitlán
The cemetery in Chichicastenango
The San Lucas room at Casa Palopó
A local mother and baby
CARIBBEAN SEA, BELIZE
The ocean has always seemed vast, wild, and unpredictable to me. But when I am presented with the opportunity to join a sailing trip in Belize, I decide to face my fear of it head-on. I buy Dramamine and (literally) dive in headfirst. With no time difference to contend with, no money to exchange, and the national language being English, I relax and pack a backpack with a bathing suit, flip flops, and a good book.
Belize is still relatively unknown as a sailing destination; seasoned travelers are familiar with the British Virgin Islands and Croatia as high-traffic locations for yachting. But with more than 400 islands, or “cayes,” to explore and the second-largest living reef in the world, I am stunned to hear that the word had not gotten out. I envision swarms of white sailboats bobbing on the surface of turquoise-blue waters with yacht rock blaring from speakers, but what I end up finding is solace and rest.
Within 30 minutes of landing in Belize City, I am on the Bali 5.4 Magnificent, a luxury catamaran sailboat, ready to set sail with three other women.
“Put on your swimsuits, ladies!” exclaims Captain Ruben with excitement. He, along with a private chef, is our crew for the week. Surveying the boat, I am immediately amazed by the luxurious yacht. My room is plush with a cozy queen bed covered in white linens and a private bathroom all to myself. I marvel at the ocean view outside my window.
Here we go, I think.
The four of us and Ruben gather on the fly bridge as we head out into the open sea. I notice that there are no other boats around, save a few cruise ships off in the distance. The salty breeze skims my face; my hair begins to tangle and grow wild, just as it was always meant to. I feel my stress melt away; there is nothing to do but sit back and relax as the world of crystal-blue swallows us whole.
"The
salty breeze skims my face; my hair begins to tangle and grow wild, just as it was always meant to. I feel my stress melt away; there is nothing to do but sit back and relax as the world of crystalblue swallows us whole."
Our first stop is Drowned Cayes, a mangrove that is home to manatees and dolphins. As we leap into the refreshing cool water like teenagers on spring break, it is not long before two curious dolphins swim up to us. A moment of panic washes over me as I mistake a grey fin for a shark. Then, I laugh at myself when I realize my mistake.
That evening, after a delicious five-star meal, with an orange-and-pink-toned sunset as our backdrop, I sit in silence. When was the last time I felt wild? When was the last time I didn’t care about how I looked or what I was wearing? Why did I even bring makeup? I feel like a kid again; salty, tan, and happy, without a worry in the world. Soon, the calm waves, dark skies, and a full belly lull me into a deep sleep.
Photos courtesy of Amy Willis
Dinner on the Bali 5.4 Magnificent
Editor in Chief Amy Willis
As we sail to our next destination, the sound of the fishing rod reel captures our attention. Ruben and another guest jump into action and reel it in with vigor. “We’ve got dinner for tonight!” we yell. Fresh from the source, it is the best fish I have ever tasted.
We spend time snorkeling through the many reefs that call the Caribbean home. Swimming alongside sea turtles, eagle rays, and even nurse sharks, I feel at ease being tethered to Ruben on a lifesaver as he points out the sea life below. The rainbow-colored fish and coral engulf my vision of this underwater world, and with so much going on, I don’t know where to look. Curious eyes meet mine and then are gone in a flash.
At Rendezvous Caye, a private island exclusive to us, we anchor and walk toward the beach, where a friendly man, Bobo, ushers us toward three stingrays hovering around his feet. Uneasy at first, we feed them shrimp and soon are comfortable sitting in the wake as they brush up against our legs. “The puppies of the sea!” I yell, giddy with how fond I am of these creatures.
Sailing through only a handful of the islands that Belize has to offer, I realize my trip barely scratches the surface. Belize, it turns out, is a place that can be explored time and time again, and sailing is an ideal way to see it—to be immersed in the culture and soak up more than the sun.
With slow travel still on the rise, being able to unwind and take time to explore, rest truly, and recharge feels like a gift. It turns out that traveling far is not required to experience an altogether unexpected paradise close to home, whether along the shores of Lake Atitlán or the Caribbean waters of Belize—especially when both can be woven into one rejuvenating journey.
A guest holds up a hogfish
Feeding stingrays on Rendezvous Caye
Crystal-blue waters surrond Goff's Caye
EUROPE
Feature Article WHERE LUXURY MEETS LEGEND
WHERE WE TRAVEL TO WALES
NORTHERN & WESTERN
AUSTRIA
BELGIUM
DENMARK
ENGLAND
ESTONIA
FINLAND
FRANCE
GERMANY
GREENLAND
ICELAND
IRELAND
LATVIA
LIECHTENSTEIN
LITHUANIA
LUXEMBOURG
MONACO
NETHERLANDS
NORWAY
SCOTLAND
SWEDEN
SWITZERLAND
WALES
WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING
"The trip to Cyprus went extremely well. The itinerary we planned with your assistance covered the entire island. If you have other clients interested in Cyprus, I would highly recommend our guide, Antonia. She was truly one of the best guides we have had in our many years of travel."
EASTERN & SOUTHERN
ALBANIA
ARMENIA
AZERBAIJAN
BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA
BULGARIA
CROATIA
CYPRUS
CZECH REPUBLIC
GEORGIA
GREECE
HUNGARY
ITALY
MALTA
MOLDOVA
MONTENEGRO
POLAND
PORTUGAL
ROMANIA
SERBIA
SLOVAKIA
SLOVENIA
SPAIN
TÜRKIYE
"WOW—the boat was exactly what we were hoping for. Josip (captain) and Antonija took amazing care of us. Antonija was an amazing cook, and she worked hard to make sure the boat was spotless. I cannot say enough about the food. They were the ultimate professionals and hosts. I would recommend the boat and crew to anyone in Croatia."
Cyprus
WHERE LUXURY MEETS LEGEND
Why Wales is the Next Great Escape
BY HALEY BEHAM
Ynys Llanddwyn
You’ve wandered the Louvre’s galleries, sipped your way through Tuscany, and sailed the Dalmatian coast. You’ve explored Europe’s grand capitals and iconic destinations. Now you’re ready for something that feels untouched, authentic, and uncrowded.
Wales is your answer.
Tucked away on the western edge of Great Britain, Wales offers something increasingly rare in European travel: profound beauty, rich culture, Michelin-starred dining experiences, and more medieval castles than you could possibly visit on one trip, yet it remains surprisingly under-the-radar.
For travelers who have already explored Europe’s greatest hits, Wales is the next chapter. It’s sophisticated enough for the most refined palates, yet authentic enough to surprise the well-traveled adventurer.
The Antithesis to the Grand European Tour
Wales’ compact size makes it particularly appealing to explore. It’s roughly the size of Massachusetts, and with its diversity of landscapes, you can experience mountains, coastline, and historic cities all within relatively short distances.
This intimate scale offers travelers the luxury of depth over breadth. You could have breakfast overlooking the peaks of Snowdonia, linger over a seaside lunch on the Pembrokeshire Coast, then dine in Cardiff, all without lengthy transfers. Spend more time connecting with local culture, exploring the varied landscapes, and settling into a boutique manor house.
Castles, Countryside, and Coastline
Wales' landscapes possess a raw beauty that stands apart from Europe's more manicured destinations. Snowdonia's jagged peaks pierce the sky with dramatic intensity, their ancient slopes carved by glaciers into knife-edge ridges. Mirror-like lakes reflect clouds and mountainsides in perfect stillness. Mount Snowdon—the tallest peak in the British Isles outside Scotland—makes for a rewarding day hike for those eager to explore Wales on foot.
Along the coast, the Pembrokeshire shoreline unfolds in a series of golden beaches punctuated by towering sea cliffs, hidden coves, and offshore islands where grey seals bask and puffins nest. The Brecon Beacons roll across the southern horizon in gentle, heather-covered waves, while the Wye Valley cradles meandering rivers through woodlands so pristine they've earned designation as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
And scattered throughout these picturesque landscapes, you’ll find more than 600 castles, earning Wales the title of “Castle Capital of the World.” These castles are living pieces of history that offer a unique look into medieval life. Wander through Caerphilly Castle, one of the largest in Europe. The fairy-tale towers of Castell Coch rise from ancient woodlands like something from a storybook. At the same time, Conwy Castle's imposing walls still guard the medieval town below with the same dramatic presence they've maintained for seven centuries. Meanwhile, the ruins of Carreg Cennen sit perched impossibly on a limestone cliff. Each castle tells a story of medieval conquest and Welsh resistance.
A cottage in the countryside
Caernarfon Castle
Photos courtesy of Daniel Sessler; Charles Lamb on Unsplash | Visit Wales; Crown Copyright
Deep, Distinct Celtic Culture
Beyond the stunning Welsh landscape and historic castles, Celtic culture is deeply ingrained in everyday life. Though it’s hard to translate into English, the Welsh word cynefin (ku-NE-vin)—a proud sense of belonging—permeates every interaction. Wales isn’t just another region in the UK. It has its own language, music, mythology, and traditions. Local storytellers pass down ancient legends, and centuries-old customs are kept alive.
Wales offers travelers an authentically deep cultural immersion, just by wandering the streets and interacting with the people there. Stroll through the coastal villages as fishing boats bring in their daily catch. Have a pint in the local pub, a community gathering space where conversations flow freely. Explore small towns like Hay-on-Wye, the world's first designated Book Town, where you'll discover more than 20 independent bookshops tucked into medieval buildings. Even in larger cities, such as Wrexham, where Hollywood glamour has embraced the deep roots of Wrexham AFC, this authentic spirit thrives.
A Culinary Renaissance
This cultural authenticity finds its most delicious expression in Wales' remarkable culinary renaissance—transforming humble pub fare into a sophisticated culinary art form. While this renaissance has earned genuine Michelin recognition, it remains deeply rooted in Welsh traditions and the connection between land, sea, and table. Farmers and chefs often maintain relationships that span generations.
Artisanal producers like Halen Môn have elevated something as fundamental as sea salt into a gourmet experience. A visit to their Anglesey factory reveals the meticulous process of hand-harvesting salt from the waters of the Menai Strait. Here, the same families have worked the shores for generations.
Establishments like The Really Wild Emporium exemplify how Welsh culture and cuisine intertwine, offering not just exceptional tasting menus but immersive foraging experiences that connect diners directly to the landscape and its stories. Under expert guidance, you'll discover wild garlic carpeting ancient woodlands, samphire growing along rocky coastlines, and mushrooms hiding beneath oak trees—ingredients that appear on your dinner plate hours later, transformed by skilled chefs who understand both the terrain and the cultural traditions that have shaped how Welsh people interact with their environment.
Traveling to Wales with Ker & Downey World Travel
Wales is just over two hours by train from London’s Paddington Station to Cardiff, and many major cities also offer direct flights to Cardiff Airport. This accessibility makes Wales a seamless extension of a London visit. But for a richer journey, we recommend pairing Wales with another, less-visited destination. Wales pairs well with England’s Peak District, where its castles and natural beauty complement England’s stone circles and the lakeside landscapes immortalized by writers like William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter.
With Ker & Downey World Travel, guests can enjoy private helicopter tours over the country’s stunning castles, personal foraging excursions, and access to ancient ruins and gardens, all with private, local guides—just to name a few.
In an era where authentic luxury experiences have become increasingly elusive, Wales invites travelers to explore a land rich in beauty, culture, and tradition, yet unspoiled by crowds.
HOW TO SEE IT
WONDERS OF WALES
Traveling from the northern reaches of Snowdonia National Park to the southern shores of Cardiff, no stone has been left unturned in this tiny yet mighty country.
Foraging in Abergavenny
PRO TIP!
"Don’t even try to pronounce some of the more consonantheavy place names (Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, I’m looking at you)! Or rather, do. It’ll be a great laugh.”
– Nicole Porto, Travel Designer
Abergavenny Town Center Monmouthshire
SOUTH PACIFIC
Feature Article
SYDNEY & MELBOURNE
HOTEL GUIDE
WHERE WE TRAVEL TO AUSTRALIA
AUSTRALIA
FIJI
FRENCH POLYNESIA
NEW ZEALAND
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING
“I want to thank you once again for the detailed planning and, as importantly, the flawless execution of a well-thoughtout and considerate Australian itinerary. What an experience that made the world a bit smaller!”
“We had a fantastic time on the trip! Love, love, love Australia. I kept asking myself why I had waited so long to go! All the guides were absolutely fantastic. The properties were lovely; I would not change a thing. Thank you for all your time and effort in keeping us rolling along. It was a great itinerary."
Mt Mulligan Lodge, Wilson Archer Photographer
SYDNEY & MELBOURNE HOTEL GUIDE
Ker & Downey World Travel reveals its comprehensive list of top luxury hotels in Sydney and Melbourne based on recent staff visits.
BY VANESSA NIVEN
The view from Shangri-La Sydney
WHERE TO STAY IN SYDNEY
From iconic harbor-front views to boutique-style charm, Sydney offers a variety of luxury accommodations that cater to different styles while maintaining consistently high standards of service, design, and location. We have recently experienced these hotels firsthand and can therefore confidently recommend them for clients seeking an elevated stay in Australia’s most dynamic city.
FOR ICONIC VIEWS
SHANGRI-LA SYDNEY
Perched above Circular Quay, Shangri-La Sydney offers panoramic views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge from most of its 565 rooms and suites. Known for its classic luxury and Asian-influenced hospitality, the hotel features the award-winning Altitude Restaurant and Blu Bar on 36, a favorite for sunset cocktails or high tea. CHI, The Spa offers a serene retreat with signature treatments inspired by traditional Asian healing practices. Guests arriving early on international flights have access to the spa facilities from opening, allowing them to take advantage of the space before check-in begins. The Horizon Club Lounge is accessible to guests staying in club rooms and suites and offers Devonshire tea service in the afternoon, plus canapés and cocktails in the evening.
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL SYDNEY
Set at the northern edge of the central business district near Circular Quay, the Four Seasons Hotel Sydney offers easy access to the city's top attractions. Its 531 rooms and suites combine comfort and style, with many showcasing views of Sydney Harbour. The hotel features a large outdoor pool, a well-equipped fitness center, and Mode Kitchen & Bar, which specializes in seasonal and local cuisine. Guests staying in club rooms or suites have access to the Executive Club on floor 32, where they can enjoy breakfast, daytime refreshments, and a canapé service with sommelier-selected wine.
"The Park Hyatt Sydney and the Crown Towers Sydney have the best views of Sydney’s New Year’s Eve fireworks display. Crown Towers Sydney offers stunning views from a distance, while Park Hyatt Sydney places guests closest to the show itself."
– Catherine Brown, Travel Designer and Australia Specialist
CROWN TOWERS SYDNEY
Rising above Barangaroo, Crown Towers Sydney sets a new benchmark for opulence with its sculptural design and resort-style amenities. Each of the 349 rooms and suites offers floor-to-ceiling harbor or city views, while the infinity pool, premium day spa, and collection of fine-dining restaurants, including Oncore by Clare Smyth, elevate the guest experience. The hotel’s attention to detail and contemporary elegance define its world-class status.
PARK HYATT SYDNEY
Located directly on the waterfront in The Rocks, Park Hyatt Sydney is one of the city’s most exclusive addresses, offering uninterrupted views of the Opera House and Sydney Harbour with truly panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows. With only 155 rooms and suites, the property emphasizes privacy, understated elegance, and personalized service. Its contemporary interiors are accented by local art, and The Dining Room by James Viles presents modern Australian cuisine using sustainable, locally sourced ingredients.
The premier suite bedroom at Crown Towers Sydney
A colorful martini from Mode Kitchen and Bar
New Year's Eve at Shangri-La Sydney
Photos
Walking along the harbor
WILDLIFE RETREAT AT TARONGA
Perfect for families with early morning arrivals into Sydney, the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga Zoo offers an immersive, eco-conscious experience unlike any other in Sydney. Nestled within the Taronga Zoo on the shores of Sydney Harbour, the boutique property features 62 low-rise lodges designed in harmony with native bushland and sustainable materials. Guests can wake to views of koalas or wallabies just outside their Bushland or Animal View rooms, while Harbour View rooms and Treetop Suites showcase panoramic vistas of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and zoo grounds. During their stay, guests enjoy two-day access to Taronga Zoo, guided sanctuary tours within the exclusive habitat, complimentary breakfast at MeGal Restaurant, and access to the N’Gurra Lounge, offering sweeping views of Sydney Harbour. The retreat’s sustainable design features solar panels, recycled water systems, and water-efficient fittings, aligning with Taronga’s environmental mission.
Additionally, the new Taronga Wildlife Hospital, scheduled to open in late 2026, will be Australia’s first specialist teaching veterinary hospital for wildlife. Funded by the New South Wales government and philanthropy, the $80 million facility will enhance surgical, rehabilitation, quarantine, and pathology capabilities, and feature public viewing galleries for visitors to observe treatments, while training the next generation of wildlife carers and veterinarians. Together, the retreat and hospital exemplify Taronga’s commitment to conservation, visitor engagement, and education.
FOR ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN LOVERS
SPICERS POTTS POINT
Tucked within a trio of restored 19th-century townhouses, Spicers Potts Point offers a boutique, residential-style experience in one of Sydney’s most charming neighborhoods. The 20-room hotel combines heritage features with contemporary design, creating a warm, intimate ambiance. Complimentary à la carte breakfast, evening drinks, and personalized service appeal to travelers seeking a quieter, design-forward escape. With easy access to locals’ favorite restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and bars, this boutique hotel is perfect for guests seeking a slice-of-life experience in the city.
Occupying a meticulously restored heritage building in the heart of the central business district, Capella Sydney blends grand historic architecture with contemporary luxury. Opened in 2023 in the former Department of Education building, dating back to 1912, the hotel features 192 rooms and suites, a lavish spa and wellness center, and a soaring lobby filled with curated art and botanical installations. The in-house resteraunt Brasserie 1930 celebrates Australia's culinary heritage with a refined, modern twist. The Capella Culturists team also offers daily activities within Sydney that are uniquely exclusive to the hotel.
CAPELLA SYDNEY
The entrance to Spicers Potts Point
The facade of Capella Sydney
The animal view room at the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga Zoo
WHERE TO STAY IN MELBOURNE
Melbourne’s hotel scene is as diverse as the city itself, combining oldworld elegance with bold, design-driven innovation. Whether travelers are in search of a classic stay with garden views or a vibrant base immersed in Melbourne’s creative culture, these standout properties each offer something distinct.
FOR BOUTIQUE EXPERIENCES
Blending retro glam with contemporary flair, Ovolo South Yarra captures the energy of its fashionable neighborhood near Chapel Street. The hotel’s 123 rooms feature bold interiors, eco-friendly touches, and tech-savvy conveniences. Guests enjoy perks like daily breakfast, in-room mini bar, and access to the hotel’s lively social spaces, ideal for those seeking a stylish, unconventional stay. The One-Hat awarded Lona Misa restaurant offers a lively Latin bar in the evenings, accompanied by an entirely vegan menu.
LANEWAYS BY OVOLO
Inspired by Melbourne’s famed laneway culture, Laneways by Ovolo offers a vibrant, art-filled stay steps from Parliament and the theater district. The boutique hotel features playful design elements, complimentary minibar and snacks, and rooms ranging from studios to expansive two-bedroom suites. It caters to travelers looking for personality, creativity, and a central city location.
OVOLO SOUTH YARRA
Brighton Beach, Melbourne
The basement sitting area
The penthouse living area
Photos courtesy of Tourism Australia | Ovolo South Yarra | Laneways by Ovolo
QT MELBOURNE
A favorite among Ker & Downey clients, the QT Melbourne offers an eclectic blend of industrial chic and bold design in the heart of the city’s fashion and arts precinct. With 188 rooms featuring bespoke furnishings, brushed copper accents, and dramatic lighting, the hotel caters to style-conscious travelers seeking a vibrant, urban atmosphere. Its signature restaurant, Pascale Bar & Grill, and rooftop bar are popular with locals and visitors alike. At the same time, playful service touches and curated in-room amenities add to its unique personality.
PARK HYATT MELBOURNE
Overlooking Fitzroy Gardens and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Park Hyatt Melbourne is a refined sanctuary with a European residential feel. The hotel’s 245 spacious rooms and suites are some of the largest in the city, featuring deep soaking tubs and marble finishes. Amenities include a day spa, indoor pool, and Radii Restaurant & Bar, known for its seasonal menu and dramatic open-plan kitchen.
"At Laneways by Ovolo I recommend the Memphis Penthouse for guests needing a bit of space, while Suite 303 Neale Whitaker is better suited for contemporary design enthusiasts." –
Vanessa Niven, South Pacific Product Manager
CROWN TOWERS MELBOURNE
"The 646 square-foot King Deluxe room at the Park Hyatt Melbourne was immensely comfortable, and the deep-soaking tub was relaxing after a long day of walking the city. In fact, the bathtubs continue to expand in size as you move up room categories, culminating with the Presidential Suite's tub, which can fit 27 standing people inside." – Vanessa Niven, South Pacific Product Manager
Crown Towers Melbourne is synonymous with luxury in Australia, offering sweeping views of the Yarra River and skyline from its Southbank location. Each of the 481 rooms and suites is elegantly appointed with custom furnishings and marble bathrooms. Guests enjoy exclusive access to the Crystal Club lounge, inspired by the opulence of the film Titanic, as well as an expansive pool and fitness center. Within the Crown complex, guests can find some of the city’s top restaurants and boutiques, such as Ging Thai and Bistro Guillaume.
The rooftop at QT Melbourne
The Indulgence suite at Crown Towers Melbourne
Photos courtesy of QT Melbourne | Crown Towers Melbourne
ROMANTIC ESCAPE
7m Jackalope Sculpture by Emily Floyd
Wine tasting in the Geode
Doot Doot Doot
Overlooking Willow Creek Vineyard
Photos courtesy of Jackalope, Mornington Peninsula
JACKALOPE, MORNINGTON PENINSULA
Nestled in its own vineyard, about an hour southeast of Melbourne, Jackalope is a visionary boutique hotel that fuses cutting-edge design with vineyard sensibility. The property’s monolithic, jet-black exterior gives way to interiors imbued with alchemical artistry, from a dramatic sculpture of a mythical jackalope by Emily Floyd to corridors lit with neon accents and glowing installations that echo fermentation and wine lore. Its location amid the Mornington Peninsula’s many vineyards allows guests to explore this famed wine region in depth.
With just 44 bespoke rooms and two signature “Lairs,” Jackalope achieves an intimate scale while delivering bold luxury. Guest rooms feature custom Zuster furnishings, floor-to-ceiling windows, private terraces, marble finishes, heated floors, and options such as ebony resin Japanese baths or double rain showers. The Lairs offer loft ceilings, oversized terraces, indoor-outdoor fireplaces, a private wine cellar, and champagne and caviar service.
Dining is a highlight, featuring two Chef-Hatted restaurants: Doot Doot Doot serves a theatrical tasting menu beneath a chandelier of 10,000 golden bulbs, while Rare Hare offers a relaxed setting with vineyard views and farm-driven, seasonal cuisine. The hotel’s Flaggerdoot bar, located in a restored homestead, is known for inventive cocktails and design flair. Additional amenities include a black tiled 100-foot infinity pool overlooking Willow Creek Vineyard, a serene spa housed in the sculptural Geode building, and daily curated experiences such as wine tastings, spa treatments, garden tours, and a wood-fired chocolate chip cookie-making class at Rare Hare.
CHOOSE YOUR FAVORITE
Whether you're seeking Sydney and Melbourne’s grand elegance or quirky edges, there’s a luxury hotel to suit every preference. Let a Ker & Downey World Travel designer help you navigate the city’s best accommodations and plan a seamless, tailored journey to Australia’s famous locations.
JOURNEYS
Top Itineraries from Ker & Downey World Travel
Mt Borradaile, West Arnhem Land
Photo credit Tourism Australia
LUXURY OUTBACK SAFARI
The far-flung wilds of Australia are at your fingertips on this 15-night luxury Outback safari, a high-flying adventure of ultra-luxe proportions. Luxury resorts nestled in wildlife reserves, kangaroo encounters on white sand beaches, fine dining under red rock escarpments, sunset billabong cruises to ancient Aboriginal sites, and five-star homesteads in Australia’s last true frontier are just a few of the experiences guests can expect on this epic adventure.
DAY 13–15: CHAMBERLAIN GORGE | EL QUESTRO HOMESTEAD 15 DAYS / 14 NIGHTS
SUGGESTED JOURNEY AT A GLANCE:
DAY 1–2: ADELAIDE HILLS | SEQUOIA LODGE
DAY 3–5: KANGAROO ISLAND | SOUTHERN OCEAN LODGE
DAY 6–7: UL U R U-KATA TJU TA NATIONAL PARK | LONGITUDE 131°
DAY 8–10: MT. BORRADAILE | DAVIDSON’S ARNHEMLAND SAFARIS
DAY 11–12: KAKADU NATIONAL PARK | BAMURRU PLAINS
LUXURY KOREAN POP CULTURE TOUR
12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS
Discover South Korea and its influence on global music, film, and fashion with our luxury Korean Pop Culture Tour. This 11-night itinerary takes you on a journey through South Korea to experience firsthand the origins of the world’s obsession with Korean popular culture.
SUGGESTED JOURNEY AT A GLANCE:
DAY 1–5: SEOUL | FOUR SEASONS HOTEL SEOUL
DAY 6–7: BUSAN AND GYEONGJU | PARK HYATT BUSAN
DAY 8–10: JEJU ISLAND | THE SHILLA JEJU
DAY 11–12: INCHEON | GYEONGWONJAE AMBASSADOR INCHEON
SOUTH KOREA
Explore South Korea, where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge luxury. From private tours of Seoul’s palaces and art districts to serene escapes in the finest boutique retreats, every detail is tailored to your desires. Experience Michelinstarred dining, exclusive cultural encounters, and seamless service throughout your unforgettable journey with Ker & Downey World Travel.
BOTSWANA FAMILY SAFARI
12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS
From Botswana’s Okavango Delta to the arid Central Kalahari, there is something for everyone on this enchanting family-friendly safari escape. Head out into untouched wilderness and let nature’s wonders inspire you to slow down and reconnect with family.
SUGGESTED JOURNEY AT A GLANCE:
DAY 1: JOHANNESBURG | INTERCONTINENTAL JOHANNESBURG O.R. TAMBO AIRPORT
DAY 2–3: MOREMI GAME RESERVE | OKUTI
DAY 4–6: OKAVANGO DELTA | SHINDE
DAY 7–9: OKAVANGO DELTA | KANANA
DAY 10–12: CENTRAL KALAHARI GAME RESERVE | DINAKA
AMSTERDAM & BELGIUM CHRISTMAS MARKETS TOUR
If you seek a little sparkle this holiday season, look no further than the best Christmas markets in Belgium and Amsterdam. This luxury weeklong tour features enchanting Christmas festivals and markets across Amsterdam, Brussels, Ghent, Bruges, and nearby regions.
SUGGESTED JOURNEY AT A GLANCE:
DAY 1-2: AMSTERDAM | DE L'EUROPE AMSTERDAM
DAY 3-5: BRUSSELS | HOTEL AMIGO
DAY 6-8: BRUGES | THE PAND
SHOT THE
One picture, one moment, one memory captured by photographer S. Singh Mecker.
The highlight of our Patagonia adventure was the four days we spent in Torres del Paine National Park. We experienced the beauty of stunning landscapes and the full unpredictability of Patagonia's weather, which sometimes ranged from rain to sun and snow in the same day, making for a great adventure.
Since our hotel was conveniently located on the shores of Lake Pehoe with a stunning view of the Cuernos, I realized there was a possibility of capturing a great sunrise if the weather gods would allow. The key was to find an opportunity when the right mix of clouds and the light from the rising sun would light up the southfacing peaks of the Cuernos.
Unfortunately, my first two attempts were a bust, as the morning fog and low-lying clouds masked the peaks, and the sun struggled to break through. On our last morning at the hotel, I knew there was a chance, since the clouds showed some clearing before sunrise, so my wife and I rushed out of the hotel with a mix of hope and excitement. As if on cue, the sun peeked through just at the right time, and a fiery red glow lit up the Cuernos. For the first minute, we just stood there with our eyes popping out of our heads since we'd never seen a stormy sunrise in our lives like the one we were experiencing now.
I quickly fired off a series of shots, with the two people at the edge of the hill in the composition to highlight the vastness of the landscape. The drama continued to unfold as the clouds and rising sun changed the lighting every few seconds. We just stood there for the next ten minutes, watching the miracle unfold and feeling blessed that we were witnessing nature at its best.
Photo by S. Singh Mecker smecker.smugmug.com | Instagram: smeckerphoto
Forget group tours, long lines, or packaged experiences; with Ker & Downey World Travel, everything is a completely tailored fit, and our artistic signature is threaded throughout. Let us offer you the opportunity for something rare and exotic, an exclusive journey that no one else can duplicate, and a one-of-a-kind adventure filled with the thrill of experience and the luxury of privacy. This is Ker & Downey World Travel.
