Luxury Card Concierge®
Winter Guide 2025
Winter Getaways
Dreaming of a winter getaway? Your Concierge is here to help personalize an itinerary just for you. We’re featuring two destinations in this issue. The first is Milan for fashion, fabulous Italian food and skiing. Next, we selected Savannah for its refined southern charm and enticing sunkissed weather.
If another destination is calling your name, it would be our pleasure to research and book transportation, hotels, sightseeing tours, dining reservations and more. Call us today for assistance planning your next adventure.
TRAVEL
Winter Escapes
The Magic of Milan
Milan is the second largest city in Italy and one of the world’s most influential fashion capitals. Whether you stroll the streets around the fashion houses and designers in Via Monte Napoleone and Via Della Spiga, explore Centro Storico, near the Duomo cathedral and La Scala Opera, visit Navigli which is by the canals and famous for its nightlife, or experience the artsy area of Brera, Milan offers plenty of enchanting options. The best way to understand how it is laid out may be to take a ride on one of the trams. May we research sightseeing options for you?
Il Duomo di Milano
Towering over Piazza del Duomo, Il Duomo is undoubtedly the most recognizable structure in Milan. This marble cathedral, marked by 135 spires and countless statues, is a late Gothic masterpiece that was started in 1386 but not finished for 500 years. Reach out to your Concierge for more information on this beautiful landmark.
Shopping in Milan
As the capital of fashion, Milan brims with shopping options. Explore Via Monte Napoleone, Via della Spiga and the surrounding streets, where fashion houses have their flagship stores. Your Concierge can offer more details.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Right next to Il Duomo is Italy’s oldest active shopping gallery. Named after Italy’s first king, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is an upscale shopping arcade housing luxury brands such as Gucci, Prada and Louis Vuitton as well as restaurants, bars, cafés and even a hotel. May we research designers with shops in the Galleria?
Navigli
Don’t miss Milan’s canal district called Navigli. The canals were constructed by Leonardo da Vinci to make the building of Il Duomo and the transportation of heavy materials easier. The neighborhood around the Navigli is popular and offers visitors the chance to explore quintessential Milanese cafés, bars and shops.
Milan Trips
Lake Como
The Lake Como region has been an escape for Milan’s nobility for centuries and continues to offer a tranquil respite to this day. Just an hour or so north of the city, depending on which village you choose as your starting point, the area offers plenty to see and do for the day or a long weekend. Many enchanting villages dot the shores of Lake Como including Bellagio, an idyllic resort town, and Varenna, perhaps the most picturesque and the larger city of Como that features Gothic-style architecture. Ask your Concierge to book your train trip or chauffeured tour from Milan.
Genoa
Beautiful and cultural, Genoa could easily captivate visitors for a leisurely stay, but if your time is limited, you can still enjoy a taste of this port city. It boasts museums, theaters and even the largest aquarium in Europe. Food is a cornerstone of Genoese culture, and the city is known for several distinctive dishes including fluffy focaccia, pesto made from basil plants that grow in the hills of Liguria that have smaller leaves and a more delicate flavor, and pànera, a dense sweet cream invented in the city in the 19th century. May we book your trip to Genoa, situated two hours southwest of Milan on the Ligurian Sea, an inlet of the Mediterranean?
Bergamo
An hour northeast of Milan, Bergamo is spectacular in the wintertime. Some say it is best viewed from the Funicolare di Bergamo Alta, a cable railway that offers a panorama of Bergamo, and the snowcapped Bergamasque Alps. Another cool-weather activity is walking along the Mura, the fortification walls that encircle the city. They were designed for protection centuries ago but today they offer a picturesque path for visitors to explore. Lunch before or afterward is a must. Let us reserve your table at one of the city’s ristorantes to enjoy rustic fare such as polenta, braised meats and alpine cheeses. Polenta is also a star ingredient in Bergamo desserts. Try the polenta e osei, a cake made with corn flour, chocolate butter, rum and hazelnut cream.
Aosta Valley
Surrounded by Mont Blanc, Monte Rosa and the Matterhorn, Italy’s Aosta Valley is a paradise for winter sports as well as culture, alpine cuisine and history. After skiing at one of the area’s 19 ski resorts, enjoy a soak in a thermal spring and visit some of the area’s Roman-period archeology. It would be our pleasure to customize your itinerary to the Aosta Valley, located less than two hours by car from Milan.
Milan Hotels
Let us help you book the perfect hotel for your stay in Milan. To book, please reach out to your Concierge to ensure you receive any special amenities you may be entitled to with our service.
Mandarin Oriental, Milan
In the heart of Milan’s Fashion District, steps away from the artistic quarter of Brera and La Scala Opera House, Mandarin Oriental, Milan is a stylish and intimate hotel spread out over four elegant 18thcentury buildings. It features 68 guest rooms and 36 suites, including two Signature Suites created as a tribute to Italian designers Piero Fornasetti and Gio Ponti. Two courtyards offer alfresco dining with award-winning cuisine by Antonio Guida: Seta, an upscale establishment, and Mandarin Garden, a more casual spot. The spa takes a holistic approach and offers an array of signature treatments.
• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Daily buffet breakfast for up to two guests
• $100 USD equivalent resort or hotel credit
Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa, Milan
Located adjacent to the haute fashion district and the bohemian Brera area, Palazzo Parigi offers a quintessential Milanese experience with a contemporary twist. All 54 guest rooms and 42 suites (including 8 signature apartments with panoramic views) are distinctively appointed with a balcony or terrace. Enjoy relaxing moments in the 1,700-squaremeter Grand Spa, bathed in natural daylight, with its private hammam and Valmont skin treatments. Enjoy fine dining in the Gastronomic Restaurant or a relaxing breakfast in the private garden, as well as the elegant Caffè Parigi for a Milanese aperitivo.
• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Daily buffet breakfast for up to two guests
• $100 USD equivalent resort or hotel credit
Milan Dining
Milan’s food scene strikes a balance between traditional Milanese specialties and international delicacies. Traditional fare includes risotto alla Milanese, the city’s signature dish; polenta; and braised and roasted meats with vegetables dotted with cheese and herbs. Because Milan is a melting pot of ethnicities, it is easy to find Japanese fusion, Indian curries and other international fare.
When in Milan do as the Milanese do: enjoy an end of the meal sweet treat. Italy is known for pastries, but Milan takes it a step above. Their delicacies include creamfilled and sugar-dusted bomboloni, pan dei morti (a dense spice cake with ground nuts) and puffy kranzino studded with raisins or chunks of chocolate. But the top sweet in Milan is gelato. Italy’s famous frozen dessert is elevated here in a very artisanal way. It would be our pleasure to seek out the top gelato shops near you.
Cracco
Cracco is a one-Michelin-starred establishment that wears many hats. In addition to being a fine dining ristorante, it’s a bistro as well as an acclaimed pastry shop and even an event venue. The specialties of the house are inspired by Milan and the local ingredients and culinary traditions of the area. May we reserve your table with a coveted view of the Ottagono building?
Nerino Dieci Trattoria
A perfect spot for lunch after touring the Duomo, Nerino Dieci Trattoria offers authentic Milanese cuisine as well as an extensive list of wines to pair with their dishes. It would be our pleasure to book a table for you and your travel companions.
Marchesi 1824
One of Milan’s oldest and most reputable pastry shops, Marchesi 1824 is a local institution. Their expert staff educates customers on the large variety of sweets on offer. Pair your selection with an Italian espresso for a true Milanese experience.
Savannah: The Hostess City
Known for its refined hospitality, Savannah graciously welcomes visitors from across the globe to experience its shaded, peaceful squares; colonial and civil rights history; and antebellum architecture. Whether you’re interested in leisurely exploring the city on foot, or by pedicab or trolley, your Concierge would be pleased to customize an adventure just for you.
Squares of Savannah
Often called the “crown jewels” of the city, the Squares of Savannah were established by General James Edward Oglethorpe (Georgia’s founding father) in the 1800s to improve conditions in a city ravaged by war. The Squares brought some order for the military as well as Savannah residents. Today, there are 22 squares that honor many heroes from the past centuries and offer green space, shade and charm. Each lush square boasts its own personality and is bordered by homes, museums, shops, churches and inns, all under a canopy of majestic live oak trees, dripping with Spanish moss. For more information, reach out to your Concierge.
Harbor Cruise on the Savannah River
Let the entertaining riverboat captain enchant you with stories of bustling ports and ancient cannons at Old Fort Jackson. With every curve of the river, discover a new chapter of Savannah’s tale, all while soaking in breathtaking views of the skyline. Contact us for more information and to book your seat on a harbor cruise.
Savannah Walking Tour
Stroll through the past with an expert guide, a legend in a seersucker suit, for a walking tour that brings history to life with a twist. It’s not just dates and facts; it’s the untold stories of Georgia you don’t normally hear—from its early history to its role in films, all delivered with the flair of a stand-up historian. May we book your spot on this unique stroll?
Savannah Day Trips
If you’ve seen and experienced all Savannah has to offer but want to extend your stay in the area, we have three interesting areas to consider: Tybee Island, just minutes from Savannah; the Golden Isles of Georgia, less than two hours south; and Beaufort, South Carolina, an hour northeast of the city. Ask your Concierge for more information about securing transportation, hotels, dining and sights.
Tybee Island
Tybee Island is often referred to as “Savannah Beach” because it’s just minutes from downtown. But as they say in Tybee, “Tybee Island is Miles Away from Ordinary, despite being Close to Everything Else!” The name “Tybee” is thought to come from the Euchee Native American word for “salt,” which makes sense because the island is known as a healing haven with its saltwater air. It attracts people looking for a remedy for respiratory problems and the pristine and peaceful beaches offer welcome rejuvenation. It would be our pleasure to book your stay on Tybee Island.
Golden Isles of Georgia
Named as the Best U.S. Islands for the second year in a row by Travel + Leisure, Georgia’s Golden Isles have been attracting those who seek tranquility, beauty and luxury for decades. The four islands that encompass the Golden Isles are St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Jekyll Island and Little St. Simons Island, and often include the historic town of Brunswick, Georgia to the east. Ask your Concierge to map out your day trip from Savannah and feel the stress melt away as you breathe in the magnificence of these treasured islands.
Beaufort, South Carolina
An hour northeast of Savannah is the charming and historic town of Beaufort (pronounced bew-fert), South Carolina. The entire downtown has been designated as a historic district by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. It is filled with art galleries, antiques shops and pre–Civil War mansions that are beautifully restored. Some of the mansions are open to the public on professionally guided tours. If you’re interested in beaches, just 15 miles to the east is Hunting Island State Park and Harbor Island. We would be delighted to arrange a picnic lunch to enjoy on one of these beaches during your time in Beaufort.
Savannah Hotels
Let us help you book the perfect hotel for your stay in Savannah. To book, please reach out to your Concierge to ensure you receive any special amenities you may be entitled to with our service.
Thompson Savannah
Find luxury along the Savannah River’s edge where the Historic District meets the Eastern Wharf.
A stepping-stone to experience the city’s best, Thompson Savannah is an urban oasis where you can relax, revitalize and rejuvenate. Indulge in the essentials: 193 supremely chic rooms including 21 suites; Fleeting, the signature restaurant celebrating the season’s best ingredients; Bar Julian, an elevated rooftop bar serving up hand-crafted cocktails with postcard worthy panoramic views; and a sprawling pool deck with private cabanas.
• Upgrade on arrival, if available
• Daily breakfast for two
• $100 USD equivalent food and beverage credit
Perry Lane Hotel, Savannah
Perry Lane Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, has reimagined the traditional Southern stay, offering a luxurious five-star experience. Guests get to be the life of the party, if they so choose, or sit back and watch the action from a cozy nook. Three impressive dining outlets lend the hotel a convivial vibe, from the Emporium Kitchen & Wine Market, with locally sourced ingredients, to the sultry vibes of Peregrin rooftop pool and bar to the charmingly offbeat Wayward. The expansive art collection is top-notch, featuring some of the best young artists in Savannah today.
• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Daily buffet breakfast for up to two guests
• $100 USD equivalent resort or hotel credit
Savannah Dining
Some say the food scene in Savannah is a story of glamour and grit. The Hostess City is fighting to maintain its air of refinement while welcoming tourism that isn’t always so polished. Whatever the reason, Savannah’s Lowcountry staples are mingling with multicourse tasting menus, Korean BBQ, hand-folded dumplings and even braised pig’s feet. The result is an epicurean scene that is attracting food lovers from around the globe. It would be our pleasure to book your dining reservations in Savannah.
Chef Brandon Carter’s Three Savannah Eateries
Savannah’s food scene has been hot for several years now. Chef Brandon Carter deserves much credit for this culinary renaissance. In 2021, he opened Common Thread, serving modern Southern fare in a restored Victorian home. The next year it was named among the 50 Best New Restaurants in America. Since then, he has opened Wildflower Cafe at the Jepson Center and in 2023 he introduced the city to Strange Bird, a casual dining spot in the Victorian District. Let us know which eatery sounds appealing and we will reserve your table.
Private Savannah Port City Food Tour
Here’s your chance to get VIP access to some of Savannah’s top eateries before they open their doors to the public. Skip the lines and indulge in award-winning cuisine as you wander through lesser-known corners of the historic district. Discover secret spots and flavors that even locals rarely see. Come hungry and ready for a culinary adventure in Georgia’s First City. May we reserve your spot?
Lowcountry Cuisine Cooking Class
Step into Chef Darin Sehnert’s private cooking class in the heart of Savannah where you’ll whip up Lowcountry cuisine in his show kitchen. Perfect for all ages, this hands-on journey merges history and flavor, and it’s tailored just for you. Whether the menu features shrimp and grits, fried chicken or chicken country captain, grab an apron and gear up for a memorable kitchen adventure. It would be our pleasure to register you for this fun and informative class.
Valentine’s Day
Looking forward to a memorable Valentine’s Day this year? Perhaps you’re planning to propose to your significant other or would like to organize a party at your child’s school. We would be delighted to
take care of the details that will make the day special. We’re also on hand to place flower orders, book a romantic table for dinner and seek out the most decadent chocolates. Call us for ideas to
surprise your Valentine with a carefully curated culinary collection from Tasty Ribbon or a unique gift from Venus et Fleur. We’re standing by to help you make this a Valentine’s Day to remember.
Engage: With Valentine’s Day This Year
Send the Perfect Valentine’s Day Bouquet
Flowers are always appreciated but on Valentine’s Day they’re practically a requirement. Reach out to your Concierge to order the perfect bouquet for your Valentine this year. Our partner florists offer discounts of up to 25% off regular prices. We would be delighted to elevate your day with a customized flower arrangement.
Luxury Gifts through AMAIA
Surprise your Valentine with a lavish gift from AMAIA, a luxury global sourcing company supplying and procuring rare and limited items worldwide. Carefully and consciously sourced items come directly from brand boutiques and a vetted network of global suppliers and dealers. Through AMAIA, we can source limited-edition luxury goods such as brand-new Hermès handbags, difficult-to-locate timepieces, haute couture, fine jewelry, raw gemstones and private fine art. Ask your Concierge about the benefits you may receive.
Venus et Fleur Eternity Flowers
Your Valentine can enjoy the Venus et Fleur eternity flowers you send for more than a year. These handcrafted arrangements are designed to leave a lasting impression on the hearts of your loved ones.
Perfect for special occasions, including Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, weddings, birthdays, Mother’s Day and other events that call for a touch of luxury. Contact your Concierge for more details.
Tasty Ribbon Gift Boxes Are Always a Welcome Gift
Tasty Ribbon brings the best of Italian cuisine in a carefully curated collection of luxury gift boxes and an exclusive marketplace to meet the most refined tastes. With rich sauces, truffle treasures, decadent desserts and more, each gift box is filled with hand-selected specialties from only the best small-batch Italian artisans and is beautifully wrapped to impress. Whether you’re sending a gift to friends, family, clients or even yourself, the extensive collection of artisanal gift boxes offers something to please every palate. Contact your Concierge to receive a 25% discount on your Tasty Ribbon purchases.
Elite Dining Collection
Your Valentine’s Day table will be waiting when you’re ready to pop the question or simply let your Valentine know how special they are. Reach out to your Concierge to reserve at one of the restaurants on our Elite Dining Collection, which celebrates the best in cutting-edge cuisine and experiences. You may get to meet the chef, tour the kitchen or, enjoy a complimentary glass of wine or an apéritif. Whether dining close to home or while traveling internationally, contact your Concierge to book and to take advantage of the special experience. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day or another special occasion this winter. Below are the U.S. restaurants that are part of the collection:
Ever, Chicago
Oriole, Chicago
Temporis, Chicago
CUT, Las Vegas
Mott 32, Las Vegas
Café La Trova, Miami
Kenzo, Napa/Sonoma
SingleThread, Napa/Sonoma
The Grill Room, New Orleans
Caviar Russe, New York
Craft, New York
Gabriel Kreuther, New York
o d o, New York
The Musket Room, New York
Wallsé, New York
Acquerello, San Francisco
Angler, San Francisco
Saison, San Francisco
Sons & Daughters, San Francisco
Cranes, Washington D.C
Entertainment & Events This Winter
An eventful winter awaits. Our large network of partnerships lets us personalize unforgettable experiences around major sporting events, plays and concerts, winter carnivals, wellness retreats and more. Tell us your passions and we’ll create your own customized experience. Contact us to get started on a winter adventure tailored just for you.
Major International Sporting Events
The lineup of international sporting events this winter and beyond is extensive and your Concierge is ready to research options and help you purchase tickets. We can often access hard-to-come-by tickets and sold-out games, so call to secure your spot at an event.
Invictus Games 2025
Vancouver and Whistler, Canada
More than 500 athletes from over 20 countries will compete in the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025, taking place February 8–16, 2025. The new events include: Alpine Skiing and Snowboard, Nordic Skiing, Biathlon, Skeleton and Wheelchair Curling, as well as core Invictus Games sports of Indoor Rowing, Sitting Volleyball, Swimming, Wheelchair Rugby and Wheelchair Basketball. Reach out to your Concierge for details and to discuss attending the events.
XXV Olympic Winter Games, Milan and Cortina
d’Ampezzo,
Italy
Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy will host the 2026 Winter Olympics, officially the XXV Olympic Winter Games and informally referred to as Milano Cortina 2026. The Olympic Games will be held February 6–22, 2026. It would be our pleasure to start customizing an itinerary for you and your fellow sporting enthusiasts to attend these Winter Games.
FIFA World Cup 26: Canada, Mexico and the United States
Sixteen locations in North America will host the FIFA World Cup 26. It is scheduled to begin in Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on Thursday, June 11, 2026, with the final scheduled for Sunday, July 19, 2026, in the New York metro area. Reach out to your Concierge to start planning now so that you can be part of this exciting event.
Winter Festivals and Events
Winter Festivals
If any of these vibrant international and domestic festivals pique your interest, please reach out to your Concierge for additional information.
• Cresta Run Toboggan Race: St. Moritz, Switzerland, December to March
• Saint Paul Winter Carnival: Saint Paul, Minnesota, January 23 to February 2
• Sapporo Snow Festival: Sapporo, Japan, February 4–11
• Québec Winter Carnival: Québec City, Canada, February 7–16
• Mardi Gras: New Orleans, Louisiana, March 4
• Cherry Blossom Festivals: Tokyo; Washington, D.C.; Vancouver, March to April
Sporting Events
• Australian Open: Melbourne, January 12–26
• Super Bowl LIX: New Orleans, LA, February 9
• March Madness (Men’s NCAA): USA, March 18 to April 7
• The Masters: Augusta, GA, April 7–13
• Indy 500: Indianapolis, IN, May 25
• French Open: Paris, France, May 25 to June 8
• U.S. Open: Oakmont, PA, June 12–15
• Tour de France: Italy & France, July 5–27
• Wimbledon Championships: England, June 30 to July 13
• The Open Championship: Northern Ireland, July 13–20
• U.S. Open: Flushing, NY, August 25 to September 7
• Rugby World Cup: France, August 22 to September 7
Concerts
The new year brings an exciting lineup of musical events. A few top touring artists and bands include Coldplay, Katy Perry, Ed Sheeran, Rod Stewart, Sting, Green Day, Andrea Bocelli, Usher and more. Call us to find out if your favorite singer or band is hitting the road. Not only can we research concert locations, we can also secure tickets to sold-out performances and curate personalized experiences.
Winter Wellness
Canyon Ranch, Woodside, California:
Bring Your Bestie
Nestled in the California redwoods, Canyon Ranch is an inclusive retreat dedicated to all things wellness. Enjoy everything from sea salt massages and private yoga sessions to expert-led workshops and gourmet spa cuisine, including deceptively healthy chevre and lavender tarts. Then rest up in one of the 38 welcoming and well-appointed sanctuaries—or stay in the resort’s glass tree house.
Bring your bestie and enjoy three nights on our Stay Your Way package inclusive of a special rate, a complimentary spa service per person, a wine welcome and a special gift. Plan for quality time with your favorite person doing the things you love—from facials to fitness classes, healthy dining and more. Ask your Concierge for details on booking and the special perks you may be entitled to.
SHA Wellness Clinic, Alicante, Spain: An Innovative Destination Spa
Nestled in Sierra Helada Natural Park, SHA Wellness Clinic helps guests reach their full physical, mental and spiritual potential. This Mediterranean sanctuary balances the latest advances in scientific medicine with the most effective and proven natural therapies to foster life-transforming experiences.
Conquer your health goals in 2025 with one of SHA’s hyperpersonalized holistic programs designed to tackle everything from weight loss to antiaging. Book your stay through your Concierge to receive a special VIP welcome that includes a complimentary upgrade on arrival, subject to availability; a chef amenity; daily breakfast for two; and a $100 wellness amenity to be used toward spa and wellness treatments. Contact us anytime to request further information or to book.
Winter Pop Culture
Fashion Events 2025
If you’re a fashion enthusiast, reach out to your Concierge to find out how you can attend a Fashion Week event in one of the fashion capitals of the world. You will get a chance to mingle with industry professionals, see the latest collections and experience how the music, scenery and lighting come together perfectly to introduce designers’ new creations. We can customize access to any Fashion Week events around the world and even arrange for private shoppers and stylists. Reach out to your Concierge to personalize a Fashion Week getaway.
• Milan Fashion Week: January 17–21
• Paris Fashion Week: January 21–26
• Paris Haute Couture: January 27–30
• Berlin Fashion Week: February 3–6
• New York Fashion Week: February 6–9
• London Fashion Week: February 20–24
• Milan Fashion Week: February 25 to March 3
• Paris Fashion Week: March 3–11
Awards Season
Don’t just watch the awards this season, experience them. Your Concierge can customize an experience just for you like a red-carpet meet and greet or tickets for your family to attend. To make watching from home extra special, we can research caterers near you or arrange takeout.
• Critics Choice Awards: Santa Monica, California, January 12
• Grammy Awards: Los Angeles, California, February 2
• Academy Awards: Los Angeles, California, March 2
• Academy of Country Music Awards: Frisco, Texas, May 8
