QUEST, The Travelog - Family Issue

THE TRAVELOG

WHY TRAVEL WITH KER & DOWNEY

T he heart of the matter when traveling with Ker & Downey 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 journey.

TAKING AIR TO NEW HEIGHTS

When reserving your custom land arrangements with Ker & Downey, please ask about our incredible airfare rates. Our experts partner in air travel with the best to ensure a comfortable and luxurious journey in transit. Forget the hassles: obtain premium seating at great rates, accrue mileage where available, and enjoy the peace of mind of lenient cancellation policies.

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SINGAPORE AIRLINES

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VIRGIN ATLANTIC

VIRGIN AUSTRALIA

My wife and I took our daughters on their first safari to Botswana when they were nine years old. Back in the early nineties, there weren’t a lot of options for photo safari camps, but we were able to book one during the off season and had the tented gem all to ourselves. Our daughters went on game drives, learned 20-something ways to fold a napkin into an animal, climbed trees, tried new foods, and developed their own love of Africa. We’ve traveled back to Africa on safari several times since that first trip. Each safari was different and wonderful.

Seeing them experience Africa for the first time gave me new eyes to see it as well. I look forward to the day I can take my grandchildren and see it through their eyes too.

In this issue of QUEST The Travelog, we’re focusing on family travel. We’ve curated a list of tips directly from our staff for traveling with kids, and one of our clients shares his experience surprising his grandchildren with a safari in Kenya for Christmas.

Product Manager Elizabeth Frels outlines the best regions and tours in Switzerland for a perfect family holiday, while Vanessa Niven explores the wonders of French Polynesia. Writer Lauren Kramer dives into the many dimensions of the Winelands on South Africa’s Western Cape, and in a separate article, reveals how to spend a unique summer break in Manitoba, Canada in search of beluga whales and polar bears. You’ll also read about Travel Designer Trista Gage’s memories of her trip to Morocco with her daughter, and photographer Bharath Mohan takes us on a photo-forward journey through Cambodia. Finally, my daughter Haley shares about our recent adventure to the Pantanal in Brazil to photograph jaguars — a father-daughter journey I will always cherish.

There’s no doubt that traveling with children comes with challenges. But I’ve found that it’s always worth it to bring them along. There’s so much to learn about the world that can’t be found in a book.

My number one tip for traveling with family — whether that’s young children, older children, or multiple generations — is to use a travel designer. With your input, they’ll craft a trip catered to your family so that each person walks away thinking it was the best trip of their lives. Let us handle all the details so you can focus on what matters most — making core memories with your family.

Happy travels, from my family to yours,

David Marek President

WHAT'S NEW

TIFFANY DUNN EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

Where were you last?

Italy

What was your most amazing experience? A walking tour through a local organic garden in Puglia where there are numerous original trulli to be explored. It was such a treat to taste numerous varieties of fruits and herbs and an inspiration to learn

HOT TOPIC: LUXURY TRAIN TRAVEL

BY RINA CHANDARANA

THE LATEST TRAVELS AND EXPERIENCES FROM OUR TEAM

about their sustainable and passionate farming practices. I also loved seeing my son experience so many new flavors, scents, and textures.

What would you recommend from your trip? Everything! I have spent a lot of time in Italy, but this was our first time visiting as a family. Italy is truly made for family travel and the best part of our trip was having longer stays in each location, affording us the ability to explore at a more leisurely pace.

There’s something so classic about a train journey evoking a feeling of nostalgia. Even if you’re all grown up, a train ride will bring out your childlike wonder again. Here are a few that are perfect for family travel.

BELMOND SIMPLON-ORIENT-EXPRESS

It doesn’t get more iconic than this. The Belmond Simplon-Orient-Express was immortalized in Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express, although there’s nothing sinister about this luxurious trip into the heart of Europe through London, Paris, Venice, Berlin, Prague, Vienna, and Budapest. Rolling through these iconic stops also feels like an elegant foray into the past (the storied train

launched in 1883) when train travel was in its heyday. White gloved stewards decked out in blue uniforms with a trail of gold buttons lead you into carriages replete with sumptuous upholstery and antique fixtures. This is the best in bygone train travel.

BELMOND ANDEAN EXPLORER

There are plenty of reasons to visit Peru; it’s our Destination of the Year after all. So why not see it by train? Aboard the beautiful Belmond Andean Explorer, up to 48 passengers are transported to Peru’s vibrant cities of Arequipa and Cusco, the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, and the volcanoes and lakes of the Andes on short one-and two-night itineraries, making it a wonderful option for families. And if mom needs a little alone time after a day of busy little ones, she can dip into the Spa Car for some much deserved pampering.

EASTERN AND ORIENTAL EXPRESS

Getting around to Malaysia’s ancient wonders and wild places is easy in this charming train’s opulent green and cream carriages outfitted with delicate fabrics and vintage touches. Travel through dreamy rice plantations, royal towns, and enthralling jungle tiger adventures — an unforgettable memory for all. This is slow travel at its best.

ROCKY MOUTAINEER

Trains are cool for kids, but what makes this rail journey even better is its glass-dome coaches offering panoramic views of Canada’s majestic Rockies, from Vancouver to Banff or Jasper. Restless feet will be relieved at the opportunity to hop off the train at night to sleep in beautiful hotels along the way. Imaginations will soar as high as the snow-peaked mountains rising into the heavens.

ROYAL SCOTSMAN

Playing dress up is easy to do on this train, with custom kilts for the whole family and the sound of bagpipes welcoming you to the station. Roll past the spellbinding Scottish Highlands on journeys ranging between two and seven nights. A glass or two of whiskey awaits parents after the children tuck in for the night in Edwardian-inspired Grand Suites decked out with sophisticated tweeds and dark woods.

Belmond Simplon-Orient-Express

Photo courtesy of The Lodge at Big Sky

GIVING BACK

When you travel with Ker & Downey, you become a force for good across the globe. These are some of the initiatives and partnerships we’re proud to support.

KER & DOWNEY FOR AFRICA, UGANDA

Ker & Downey for Africa, the 501c3 philanthropic arm of Ker & Downey, aims to serve communities all over Africa. The mission of Ker & Downey for Africa is to provide love, healing, and hope to the poor, sick, and terminally ill by distributing food, clothing, cash donations, and medical supplies.

Additionally, through the Ripples Foundation, the Ker & Downey team supports 24 adopted students in Uganda who receive financial support for schooling, uniforms, computers, and other needs to support their education.

HELP US FUND THE 2024 TRIP!

Our annual mission trip needs help to get on the ground in Uganda. Consider contributing to our campaign to help more people get the support they need. Learn more at kerdowney. com/giving-back/ker-downey-for-africa/

GALO PLAZA LASSO FOUNDATION, ECUADOR

The Galo Plaza Lasso Foundation was established to improve the educational, environmental, and socioeconomic wellbeing of the Zuleta community and outlying areas within Ecuador’s Imbabura province. The Foundation's Condor Huasi Project has plans to expand their enclosures to accommodate maturing condor chicks, as well as constructing a more tourist-friendly experience to educate and grow the foundation. Additionally, the foundation continues to support children in the area with scholarships that provide access to a library, as well as music, English, and photography classes. The Bordados Zuleta, which has been around since the foundation started, now has a store for visitors to purchase the embroidery that empowers local women.

For every client traveling to South America, a donation is made to support the Foundation's many efforts.

BANA BA LETSATSI, BOTSWANA

Based in Maun, Northern Botswana, this center supports vulnerable, at-risk, and orphaned children and youths by offering a place of safety for education and counseling. It also provides food, medical attention, skills training, empowerment, and meets many other needs of local children.

Ker & Downey’s exclusive Desert to Delta journey directly benefits this organization. Additionally, clients can participate in the “Pack for a Purpose” initiative that contributes essential targeted supplies for the center.

THE GROOTBOS FOUNDATION, SOUTH AFRICA

The Grootbos Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to transforming communities and promoting conservation in South Africa. Additionally, they develop sustainable livelihoods through ecotourism, enterprise development, sports development, and education. The foundation is celebrating 20 years of conservation and community upliftment within the Cape Floral Kingdom. In 2023, their sports development program delivered daily sports coaching, life skills, mentorship, and meals for children. Additionally, the Enterprise Development program offered career guidance, mentored micro-businesses, and assisted those who had to leave school with work skills. Finally, the Green Futures College trained and mentored 19 graduates in Ecotourism Hospitality and Indigenous Horticulture while their conservation research continued to champion the Cape Floristic Region through research and surveys of the botanical and entomological species in this region.

For every client traveling to South Africa, a donation is made to the foundation to support these programs.

ABOUTASIA TRAVEL, CAMBODIA

Donations from Ker & Downey helped fund five scholarships for disadvantaged young people to attend École d'Hôtellerie et de Tourisme Paul Dubrule in Siem Reap. ABOUTAsia has the first five candidates in place. The scholarships cover all educational fees plus necessary subsistence awards according to individual circumstances. Students who graduate from this program have the best chance of securing jobs in the tourism industry and have the opportunity to work with ABOUTAsia Travel.

For every trip booked with Ker & Downey to Asia, a donation is made to support these scholarships.

BROOKE USA FOUNDATION, EGYPT

Ker & Downey is excited to expand our giving program to include the Brooke USA Foundation which raises funds to support a wide variety of worldwide programs whose aim is to improve the lives of working horses, donkeys, and mules, and the people who rely on them. For 600 million people in some of the poorest places in the world, 100 million working animals are their means of making a living. The goal is to see healthy, happy people and equines working in partnership to achieve economic independence and prosperity.

For every trip booked to North Africa and the Middle East, a portion will be donated to Brooke USA to support the foundation’s work in Egypt.

Photos courtesy of Galo Plaza Lasso Foundation

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

Austin Mann

Downey Botswana

ARRIVALS

Openings, Revamps, and the Latest Travel News

ANDBEYOND PHINDA FOREST LODGE , SOUTH AFRICA

Nestled within Africa’s last remaining dry sand forest, this refreshed eco-lodge is the answer for those seeking both safari and sea. The endangered and delicate ecosystem in KwaZulu-Natal is not only home to Africa’s Big Five, but also a large cheetah population, black rhino, and unique plants in addition to many other curious creatures found beneath the canopy. Guests can assist in rhino notching, visit local communities, discover the underwater world on a scuba safari, or visit with night turtles depending on the season. The lodge itself has been meticulously redesigned, keeping in harmony with the forest without compromising on luxury in the 16 air-conditioned suites with floor-to-ceiling glass walls. A private veranda offers breathtaking views as the tiny duiker graze below, and the intimate wine cellar and relaxing wellness spa is a welcome treat after a day out.

BY RINA CHANDARANA

ZUNGULILA BUSHCAMP,

ZAMBIA

This remote, classic tented safari camp just underwent a stunning redesign. The resulting efforts evoke a feeling of days gone by. Yet the camp has not scrimped on all the modern conveniences like en suite bathrooms with enormous bathtubs, solar power for hot water, and a beautiful dining area. Guests can therefore enjoy the creatures and creature comforts too. The game is plentiful, best seen on foot, although there are also day and night game drives. Elephants gather at the springs nearby, birds flock by the river, and on the plains, lions prowl large buffalo herds.

SANCTUARY TAMBARARE, KENYA

The ultimate family escape with all the luxurious trimmings awaits in the shadow of Mount Kenya. Sanctuary Tambarare in the award-winning Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a Big Five playground, just added an indulgent private villa to its already exclusive offerings. The villa's two en suite “boutique-meets-bush" bedrooms enjoy floor-to-ceiling plains views from the super king beds, and the free-flowing indoor and outdoor lounge and dining area features teak floors and unique colors and textures reflective of the local culture and landscape. After a day exploring the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa, where the only two remaining northern white rhinos on the entire planet reside, guests can retire to the villa for sundowners from the fully stocked bar and meals prepared by a private chef in the dining room or al fresco on the expansive deck.

SHINDE FOOTSTEPS, BOTSWANA

After a recent rebuild and rebrand, this Okavango Delta camp in the Shinde Private Concession exudes a timeless appeal, offering guests the priceless opportunity to immerse themselves fully into nature’s wonders. Spend days encountering elephants, wild dogs, lions, and leopards on a walking safari with expert guides (a true safari experience) and by water in a mokoro after freshening up in the outdoor shower. Nights are for cozying up by the crackling fire. With only four canvas tents accommodating up to six guests, this is as intimate as it gets and is an ideal bucket-list experience for small groups or families.

Photos courtesy of AndBeyond | Sanctuary Tambarare | Ker & Downey Botswana | The Bushcamp Company

AMAMAGDALENA, COLOMBIA

All aboard for unparalleled experiences on the newly designed 60-passenger cruise ship launching on Colombia's Magdalena River in the spring of 2024. Dip into the deck-side heated pool while gliding down the water or relax on the private French balcony as you soak up Colombia’s fascinating places. Itineraries allow travelers to move to the rhythms of cumbia and vallenato in Palenque, where women in daringly bright dresses balance traditional baskets of fruit on their heads and sell sweet treats like coconut cake and tamarind balls along the colonial streets. Drink in the vivid colors of Cartagena, once a hub for the Spanish crown which protected the city from pirate attacks with stone walls still seen standing today, and stop at the goldsmith’s port of Mompox. Intrepid and inventive, this epic river cruise promises a journey into the very heart of Colombian culture.

SIX SENSES LA SAGESSE, GRENADA

With its tall mountains, colorful reefs, reggae beats, and sugar-sand beaches, Grenada is hard to resist. Just ask Six Senses: The iconic brand chose this spice island as the home of its debut resort in the Caribbean. Six Senses La Sagesse is perfectly situated between the ocean and a protected cove. The whole place — with its 56 suites and 15 villas, all boasting private plunge pools — feels like an expansive 38-acre village stranded in paradise. The real selling point, though, is the diversity of experiences. The Great House promises a different dining adventure every day, while resort activities range from labyrinth walking to candlelight yoga and kids' programs. Meanwhile, the island boasts excellent waterfalls and dive sites (it is the shipwreck capital of the Caribbean, after all). Need another draw? The resort is self-sufficient and plastic-free.

JANU TOKYO, JAPAN Tokyo’s already glistening skyline just got even brighter with the addition of the Janu Tokyo from the Aman brand. Light-filled rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows, private balconies, and Asian-inspired interiors with a European touch. Eight dining venues ranging from Cantonese to Italian complement the ample clubs, bars, art, and culture in buzzing Roppongi. After a night out, refresh in the expansive wellness center featuring the city’s largest gym, a long swimming pool, hydrotherapy, and hammam.

ANDBEYOND PUNAKHA RIVER LODGE , BHUTAN

Nestled in the Punakha Valley along the banks of the Mo Chu River sits this fall arrival: a cozy Bhutanese-style lodge surrounded by verdant paddy field expanses and forested hills. Punakha River Lodge features six intimate luxury tents as well as two suites in one- and twobedroom configurations. It's the perfect launching pad to explore the last remaining Himalayan kingdom where prayer flags flutter, a testament to the country’s deep commitment to faith and bliss. But there is also lots of adventure here for thrill-seekers to go rafting, kayaking, and hiking. All of this movement warrants a pampering with wellness treatments and a hearty meal of Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan fusion to warmly fill the belly.

ONE&ONLY KEA ISLAND, GREECE

The location of this dazzling beachfront property couldn’t be better if Poseidon picked it himself. Case in point: the ancient temple in his namesake offers sparkling views of the island. Just a stone’s throw away from Athens via a 30-minute private boat trip or 15-minute helicopter ride, One&Only's newest outpost on Kéa island offers seclusion in pristine villas by the cobalt Aegean Sea. Overlooking a tranquil bay, the resort connects guests with the healing power of nature through encounters with Greek farmers and fishermen, nourishment from local produce found on a delectable menu, and spa treatments inspired by the Cyclades islands.

PRISTINE EL CALAFATE LUXURY CAMP, ARGENTINA

Waking up to the sight of a glacier is one of those moments for the books, and this newest launch from Pristine Luxury Camps allows guests to experience just that. Gaze at the view of majestic Lake Argentino and Perito Moreno Glacier from the heated tubs and cozy decks adorning the six eco domes. Each is constructed from natural wood and comes outfitted with creature comforts like a king bed, living room, and en suite bathroom. But what will be seared into memory is the intertwining of the surrounding natural elements. The sky dances with thousands of stars and the wild paths of the Patagonia pioneers invite exploration.

ARA MARIS, ITALY

With the intense colors of the sunset over the Gulf of Naples unfolding before it, Ara Maris reflects the indulgent pleasures of the Italian coast’s art, culture, and stunning natural beauty. Rooms mimic the soothing sea with blue hues. A bright lemon garden flanks the relaxing swimming pool. The pale pops of green olives delight the palette in the restaurant. And glittering stars twinkle in the deep blue sky above the lounge where cocktails are served generously by expert bartenders. There’s always time for a little dolce vita at this 2024 newcomer.

GALAXY SIRIUS, ECUADOR

The latest and greatest in the Galapagos Islands comes in the form of an all-balcony super luxury catamaran accommodating just 16 lucky passengers. And while the two onboard Naturalist Guides invite travelers to tap into their inner Darwin in the wilds, the ship is a stark contrast to the tortured volcanic landscape with plentiful comforts and sophistication. The living room feels like it was plucked out of an interior design magazine with stylish seating facing incredible window views, rooms with king-size beds, and private balconies providing moments of respite to breathe in the fresh sea air. Expert chefs prepare elegant and elevated meals in the dining room where guests gather with an intimate group of newfound friends on a journey of a lifetime.

Photos courtesy of Pristine Luxury Camps

SOUTHERN OCEAN LODGE, AUSTRALIA

After a devasting bushfire on Australia’s famed Kangaroo Island in 2020, the world-renowned luxury lodge is reopening its doors once more. Set on a clifftop overlooking the Southern Ocean, the new lodge is a masterpiece of sustainable design. The restored architecture takes its design cues from the rugged cliffs and temperamental ocean’s ever-changing hues. Twenty-five suites decked out with limestone floors and blackwood feature walls effortlessly hug the curve of the island’s limestone cliffs. Sustainability stands at the forefront in the form of the lodge's solar panels, rainwater harvesting system, and waste-to-energy plant. Additionally, spa treatments are guided by ancient First Nations lore which make use of the natural island bounty of lavender, eucalyptus, and honey.

GRAND HOTEL CENTRAL, SPAIN

Right in the heart of Barcelona’s charming Gothic Quarter sits the refreshed and resplendent Grand Hotel Central. Following a five-month restoration, this historic 1920s Grand hotel reveals an all-new look and feel in its 146 rooms and suites and common areas. With a nod to its timeless elegance, the rooms now showcase a contemporary take on elegance, with exciting color palettes, sophisticated lines, and bright windows. Follow in the locals’ footsteps by sharing tapas and Spanish wine with friends in the reimagined streetside restaurant. Afterwards, hop up to the trendy rooftop terrace for infinity pool-side seats, cocktail in hand, at what is no doubt the latest and hottest gathering place in the Gothic Quarter.

HERITAGE LINE ANOUVONG, LAOS

The best way to access some of the most beautiful and remote areas of Laos is by boat. Drift down the Mekong River in this new small boutique luxury ship that seamlessly blends traditional Laotian artwork with Frenchcolonial touches. Passengers relish in lavish suites while meandering down the iconic river. Soak in the marvelous views from the wooden terrace deck and enjoy dance and musical performances from Laotian people as they generously share their culture and traditions with guests.

THE TREND: SAIL AWAY

See more of a destination on one trip when you float the waters in a luxury yacht.

BY RINA CHANDARANA

Private yacht charters are on the rise. More and more, travelers are choosing to skip the usual on-land sightseeing for exploration by sea with their families. And why shouldn't they? Private yacht charters offer the opportunity to see more places strewn across the coastlines of some of the world’s most coveted destinations. And instead of being cooped up in a busy hotel, yachts offer a private, personalized experience with custom itineraries and schedules to suit the whole family. You're the captain on this adventure. Here's where yacht charters are the most popular right now.

BELIZE

Still somewhat under-the-radar as a sailing destination, Belize has so much to offer in a small geographic slice. Our travelers are choosing to sail the largest living reef in the world in style with fully customizable itineraries ranging from four to seven nights in length. That's because a “floating hotel” provides the benefits of an all-inclusive but without the hordes of tourists: air-conditioned cabins, private bathrooms, indoor and outdoor lounging areas, open bar, gourmet meals, and water toys, all managed by a skipper and personal chef. There are also no age limits or mobility restrictions to sail here.

Spot dolphins and manatees in sandy inlets and spend hours snorkeling through a technicolor world of moray eels, parrotfish, and green turtles in one of the country’s healthiest reef ecosystems.

Belize also boasts a rich cultural heritage filled with temples, waterfalls, caves, and a melting pot of Creole, Garifuna, Maya, and Mestizo cultures.

Feel like a castaway on a tiny island as you belly up to a barefoot beach bar serving fresh coconut water and icy rum cocktails before returning to your deck under the stars. Then, adventure out on a nighttime river safari to witness the bioluminescent algae glowing below.

Belize

COSTA RICA

Lush jungles, exotic waterfalls, and hidden beaches are just some of the images that spring to mind at the mention of Costa Rica. Truly, the country is a wildlife wonderland and one of the best ways to discover the Pacific Coast’s most secluded beaches is by private vessel.

With room for up to 18 people, the yacht options in Costa Rica are decadent treats, decked out with wine cellars, organic bars, and even Wi-Fi as they bring travelers up close to the unparalleled nature. A crew of 13 includes a naturalist (much needed with Costa Rica’s ample biodiversity) and local chefs whipping up meals enjoyed alfresco.

There’s no shortage of activities like kayaking in the mangroves or learning more about Costa Rican life through a cacao experience.

Around Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula, marine life is abundant. Little ones will rejoice at the sight of humpback whales and spinner dolphins hurtling through the surf. Your captain knows the perfect spot for jumping into the water and how to find a secluded white-sand beach fringed by steamy tropical forests for a private picnic.

CROATIA

Sparkling waters, delectable local cuisine, and historypacked cities where southern and central European cultural influences collide ... What’s not to love about Croatia, the jewel of the Adriatic?

There are several yachts to choose from with 10-plus cabins for larger multigenerational groups and single-family charters with three to five cabins. Either way, a dedicated crew ensures a seamless journey, even joining you for the first dinner together onboard.

On a yacht, travelers can go hopping around Croatia's islands — there are 1,200 of them to choose from, scattered like pearls in the shimmering sea, many of which remain uncrowded, remote, and spectacularly beautiful.

Climb fortresses, visit old villages surrounded by fragrant lavender fields, and sip wine in centuries-old vineyards on Hvar Island. In Korčula, meet with honey producers to sample their sweet delights. Then jump off the yacht to explore the historic mainland cities of Split and Dubrovnik. Or just anchor for the day, diving into the underwater world. The choice is yours on a private yacht in the Adriatic.

TÜRKIYE

Mainland Türkiye should of course not be ignored with its timeless historic sites spanning a great swathe of cultures and faiths. But there’s also a reason why Europeans flock to the beaches in the summer.

To avoid the crowds, many travelers opt for a private yacht and quickly discover there’s just as much below the waves, like the fascinating coral reef formations in the Seven Islands region. Swim and snorkel in the crystalline waters surrounded by forests of olive and pine.

What’s unique about a Türkiye yacht voyage is the blend of both history and nature. Disembark with expert local guides to explore the ancient Greek city of Ephesus. The island of Sedrai feels like an open-air museum, with remnants of pillars, city walls, churches, and an amphitheater beckoning you to learn about the past before retreating to your modern floating home.

SOUTH PACIFIC

Big isn’t always better when it comes to boats. Cruising through the Tahitian paradise on a smaller vessel is ideal because it’s easier to anchor in quiet lagoons and around some of the archipelago’s smaller islets.

With more water than land mass, the islands of Tahiti are a watery playground for adventurers seeking a different morning view each day. Stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling are perfect kid-friendly activities, but travel is also about making local connections, too.

The people who call this utopia home welcome guests with warm traditional greetings. Tahiti encourages you to engage all of your senses and savor the vanilla scents and multicultural Tahitian, French, and Chinese flavors preserved by the locals.

Contemporary catamarans in Tahiti provide the utmost in comfort, including air conditioning for sweet siestas and dreamy nights. With only a few cabins, these private charters only offer room for two to ten guests who want to follow the winds, listen to the bird songs, and surrender to the beauty.

Ephesus

of Belize Sailing Vacations

THE GUIDE

Insider Secrets of Luxury Travel

Ol Pejeta Bush Camp

TRULY THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME

Clients Steve and Patsy Brandon surprise their grandkids with an unforgettable trip to Kenya.

BY STEVE BRANDON

As grandparents, we know that simple moments spent with grandchildren often become the most priceless memories. We are blessed with five grandchildren, ages 9 to 15, and like all grandparents, we KNOW that ours are smart, talented, and beautiful.

As a surprise for Christmas, to create some truly unique memories, we planned to take all five grandchildren, plus their parents, to Kenya on a photo safari. The parents knew of the plan and helped find dates that worked for everyone. We’ve been to Kenya five times, so we are very familiar with the country. Our goals were for them to visit some of the cultural and wildlife related attractions in Nairobi, then head to the local Masai area to experience their culture, plus attempt for them to see all the Big Five animals.

We began by gifting them each for Christmas a set of matching backpacks and rolling duffels, a must to travel in Africa. In each pocket in the backpack was a small gift, such as socks, travel journals related to Africa, and luggage tags with each of their names and favorite African animal on them. In the final pocket was a replica of their airline ticket. That’s when they realized they were going to Africa and pandemonium began.

I had prepared a PowerPoint presentation of photographs of facilities and wildlife, plus facts of what they were going to see and visit. Of all the talks that I have done, that one will always be my favorite. Thirty minutes later, they knew what to expect.

In taking the youngsters on a trip of this magnitude, very detailed planning is integral to a successful trip. Children get bored easily and with the help of our Ker & Downey Designer, Jamie Bell, we had scheduled every minute of the 10-day photo safari.

As the airline only had one flight that connected to Nairobi, we added an extra flight from our home airport to the airline hub to help ensure that, if we had an issue domestically, there was a better chance to make the international flight, as opposed to being on the last connecting one. This created a six-hour layover, so we bought airline club passes to amaze the children with the free food and drink and comfortable surroundings. They continue to comment today on that part of the experience.

The children were allowed to bring their electronic devices for downtime like layovers and airplane rides, but upon arrival in Nairobi, those devices — with a prior understanding by the children — were confiscated and were only allowed for one hour after lunch and one hour before bedtime. There were no complaints as the rest of the day was well planned.

We also brought an extra digital camera for the children to share. That turned out to be a hit.

"CHILDREN GET BORED EASILY AND WITH THE HELP OF OUR KER & DOWNEY DESIGNER, JAMIE BELL, WE HAD SCHEDULED EVERY MINUTE OF THE 10DAY PHOTO SAFARI."

The most memorable moment of the trip was when we witnessed a cheetah chase and take down a Thomson’s gazelle to feed her three cubs. Many “safari junkies” spend years going on photo safari and never see that spectacle. The kids were loudly cheering for the cheetah.

Out of all of our trips around the world, this one was absolutely the best. Seeing our grandchildren fascinated by nature at its best generated priceless memories. They did such a wonderful job traveling to Kenya that next Christmas, we will be gifting them a trip to the Galapagos. Onward.

Photos courtesy of Ol Pejeta Bush Camp | Steve Brandon

Steve Brandon and his wife, Patsy, are longtime clients of Ker & Downey. Together, the couple has photographed wildlife on all seven continents and spoken to over 200 school, nature, and civic groups about nature and conservation. Steve was also the keynote speaker for The Waldorf Series on the Environment at Mississippi State University in 2023.

OUR FAVORITE FAMILY EXPERIENCES

BY HALEY BEHAM

YOUNG WORLD TRAVELER

I’ve taken my son on several trips overseas. When he was 10, we traveled to Namibia and Botswana, where we hiked to the hills in Sossusvlei to see the rock art. In Botswana, it was exciting to watch him see wildlife out in the wild and not in a zoo for the first time. When he was 11, we traveled to the Galapagos and explored Peru and Ecuador. It was an amazing trip for us both where we learned to snorkel together, explored the ruins of Machu Picchu, and went horseback riding in Peru’s countryside. And when he turned 12, we traveled to Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya for a safari. He was too young to gorilla trek, but he enjoyed his time spent with the guide while I went trekking. It was wonderful getting to take him all over the world with me. - Jamie Bell,

TODDLING IN BELGIUM

When my daughter was two years old, we traveled together as a family to Belgium. The Hotel Amigo in Brussels pulled out all of the stops to ensure we had a pampered family stay in the city. Not only did they supply us with several children's amenities such as a toddler-sized robe, bubble bath, and pack-n-play, but we found ourselves at the doorstep of the city’s beautiful, walkable cobblestone streets. We spent an entire day popping into waffle shops, chocolate stores, and comic book museums — all of us, including my daughter, were in heaven.

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Elizabeth Frels, Director of Product Management & Development

CATSKILLS ADVENTURE

My favorite family getaway was when we went to the Catskills. We were on the go with outdoor activities the entire time. We went from hiking and biking to whitewater rafting and paddleboarding and had really great local food every night. The kids rose to several adventurous challenges, which was so memorable for them and us.

Designer

- Catherine Brown, Desiger

Ker & Downey staffers recall the most unforgettable travel moments shared with their families.

Photos courtesy of Hotel Amigo | Hoanib Valley | iStock

The rooftop at Hotel Amigo.

A kid's room at Hotel Amigo.

A giraffe in Namibia.

TRACKING WOLVES IN YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

My daughter is a wildlife enthusiast so even though I knew we could drive through the park on our own (as I’ve done many times!), I wanted to ensure we got to see wolves. We were there in October, which is a great time to miss the crowds and get some great wildlife sightings. Going with a naturalist guide is a completely different experience. We had great sightings of wolves, moose, grizzly bears, and, of course, bison and elk. We climbed inside an abandoned wolf den and spent the early morning hours tracking wolves with the spotting scope and listening to them howl. It makes the back of the neck tingle. I loved watching my daughter train her eye and focus the scope. She learned the importance of quiet patience, and was rewarded with the most incredible sightings — she even helped other travelers see wolves we’d spotted. - Trista Gage, Designer

CIAO! ITALIA

When my children were six and eight years old, we took a three-week long journey to Italy. We stationed ourselves in the Tuscany region and traveled mostly by train to see Rome, Venice, Florence, and even Sorrento. It was incredible to experience what was a familiar destination to me through the eyes of my children. The food, language, and landscapes differ greatly to those where we live, and allowed them the opportunity to get comfortable with being uncomfortable — a necessary skill in life. Even grocery shopping became a new experience! While there were some parts of the trip that were difficult, the memories of such an incredible experience will last a lifetime. - Sara

Kramer, Director of Marketing

TIPS FOR FAMILY TRAVEL

Unless it’s a surprise, involve kids in the planning process. You can let them plan a day, have input on where you go or stay, or what activities you do.

Prepare kids about the destinations they’ll be traveling to ahead of time. Study a map of the destination together, read an age-appropriate book, watch a documentary about the destination, or create a presentation to get them excited.

Be upfront with each family member about expectations for the trip to help planning go smoothly, including budgets, desired level of activity, and places you want to see.

Create a packing checklist together for their personal travel bag, including toys and gadgets, books, snacks, etc.

If you have a long layover, spring for the airline club passes. It makes long layovers much more comfortable, and the kids will love the free food and drinks.

There are a lot of logistics involved in planning a family trip. Use a travel designer to ensure your itinerary goes off without a hitch.

Don’t miss an opportunity to try local foods, learn a few words of the native language, or teach your child a phrase they can practice.

When traveling with multiple generations or a larger family group, schedule breaks to enable each person to pursue their individual interests. One person may want to shop, while another may want to check out a museum.

Know your child's limits and preferred pace for your family and communicate those honestly with your travel planner. Build in some downtime or pool time as needed for your children.

A boy eating pizza in Florence.

A wolf in Yellowstone.

WHERE KER & DOWNEY CLIENTS ARE TRAVELING

We rounded up a list of the top destinations where families are headed this year.

BY HALEY BEHAM

THE AZORES

Ideal for families willing to go off the beaten path, the Azores off the coast of Portugal is proving an ideal vacation spot for its outdoor pursuits amid volcanic landscapes, year-round rolling green hills, waterfalls, and natural hot springs. Between hikes around the many islands of the Azores and Jeep excursions exploring the terrain of Faial Island, families can also spend time soaking in hot springs, boating and sailing between the islands, and whale and dolphin watching. Also, visit Europe’s only tea plantation, and drop by a pineapple plantation to discover what makes this locally grown fruit so unique. Ker & Downey especially loves the hydrotherapy treatments at upscale boutique hotels, and multi-bedroom homes available for larger families.

Villa Tayrona

Angra do Heroísmo

SOUTH AFRICA

It doesn’t get more classic than a family safari in South Africa. Whether you are traveling young children or a multigenerational group, a safari in South Africa promises an unforgettable journey during which local hospitality shines brightly. Think exclusiveuse properties and private villa options with a personal chef and a guide to curate excursions and experiences like horseback riding on the beach, land-based whale watching, and cave tours just outside of Cape Town. Those amenities continue into the bush where guides cater each safari activity to suit the family, whether that’s on private game drives or nature walks that cater to the youngest safari-goers.

COLOMBIA

SICILY

Warm and welcoming, Colombia offers a diverse range of experiences that suit all ages and interests. Plus, it boasts a singular local hospitality that makes every traveler feel at home. Families traveling with Ker & Downey can look forward to immersing themselves in Colombian culture, with local food and neighborhood tours, and private classes on Colombia’s iconic dances. Plus, a hike through the tropical forest with a conservation expert details how the country is working to protect the highly endangered cotton-top tamarin monkey. A highlight is undoubtedly a day cruising between islands, swimming, and snorkeling in azure waters with a private boat, captain, skipper, and host. When families travel with Ker & Downey to Colombia, they have unique access to both villas on stretches of private beaches and boutique hotels in the city.

The popularity of Italy shows no signs of slowing down. However, families are now opting for regions outside of the typical Italian tourist circuit. Think: the Dolomites, Piedmont, Puglia, and the island gems of Sardinia and Sicily. Prized for its rich heritage, Siciliy is also appealing with its private villa and luxury hotels with connecting room options, and fascinating and flexible touring. While some family members discover the history and cuisine of Ortygia Island, younger ones can visit the workshop of a local puppet maker. Plus, expert guides transform into storytellers as they bring sites like the Valley of Temples in Agrigento, the Palatine Chapel of Palermo, the Greek-Roman Theater of Taormina, and the lava flows of Mt. Edna to life. And what better way to end such a trip than with a family dinner in a noble palace, complete with Sicilian musical performance?

Photos courtesy of Villa Tayrona

| iStock

| Jabulani

Temple of Hera in Selinunte Sicily

A family on safari at Jabulani.

ALASKA

Alaska has no shortage of family-friendly accommodation and activity options. It's no wonder, then, why so many Ker & Downey families are heading to this natural playground this summer. We love the three-bedroom Executive Suite at Hotel Captain Cook in Anchorage as a launching point for for adventurous multigenerational groups. From there, several luxury lodges offer exclusive-use options, including Denali’s Sheldon Chalet and Ultima Thule Lodge in Wrangell-St Elias National Park,

the largest and newest national park in the United States. Daily tailored fly-out adventures conducted via private bush plane bring families up close to the region's mountain valleys, meandering rivers, expansive glaciers, alpine lakes, arctic forests, and stunning wildlife. Alternatively, those who simply wish to relax can indulge in the hot tubs, sauna, yoga sessions, and massage treatments back at the cabin.

Sheldon Chalet in Denali

LONDON & PARIS

London and Paris are two of the most popular European cities and top destinations for families — and for good reason. Private tours and privileged access reign supreme here. In London, Ker & Downey families can enjoy access to sites such as the Tower of London to view the Crown Jewels and Churchill’s War Rooms before they open to the public, as well as private tours of Westminster Abbey. See London’s top sights without the crowds from the comfort of your private boat as you cruise under Tower Bridge, and pass Big Ben, MI6, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Shakespeare’s Globe, to name a few. Then in Paris, experience the Eiffel Tower with priority access, exploring areas not accessible to the public. Enter the Louvre via the Pyramid and take the secret shortcuts to all major masterpieces. Private tours of Versailles and Normandy, and charming Seine River cruises are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to building a trip to Paris. Hotels like the Ham Yard Hotel in London and La Reserve in Paris keep you close to the heart of the city, and roll out the red carpet for their youngest guests, with child-friendly amenities and special touches geared towards them.

KENYA

Ker & Downey families heading to Kenya this year will receive a deep dive into wildlife conservation and tribal culture of the Samburu and Masai people. At Namunyak Wildlife Conservation Trust, a visit to the famed Singing Wells gives a seldom-seen look at how the Samburu have gathered their herds and sung chants to their livestock as they bring up water from the wells. This unique practice has been unchanged and un-photographed for centuries. They will also visit the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary, a Samburu community-owned elephant sanctuary that takes in orphaned and abandoned elephant calves with the aim of releasing them back into the wild. In addition to their safari in the Masai Mara, guests will marvel at the landscape from the vantage point of a balloon ride, and experience the incomparable hospitality of the Masai at Tangulia Mara Camp.

Dorothy feeds a calf at Reteti Elephant Sanctuary.

Photos courtesy of Sheldon Chalet, @Totement | Sarara, Nyuso Za | iStock

A mother and son in Paris.

Children playing in London.

TRAVELING WITH KIDS?

NO PROBLEM.

See what products the parents of Ker & Downey bring with them when they are traveling with the family.

BY AMY WILLIS

This kid-friendly monocular is built to withstand the elements and travel’s unexpected tosses and tumbles. Encased in water resistant and max grip housing, the ultracompact optical is perfect for young one's spotting wildlife from a distance. It also comes in a variety of fun colors.

Nocs Zoom Tube 8x32 ($75) nocsprovisions.com

“Our kids use them for bird- and wildlife-watching, sightseeing, and taking cool pictures, and they also love the attachable microscope to inspect snow, moss, bugs, and other tiny things.”

- Catherine Brown, Designer

From overseas flights to long car rides, headphones are a must. Keep kids entertained and engaged with the Puro Sound Bluetooth headphones. Designed to deliver studio-grade audio quality, they also reduce background noise while protecting young ears with a built-in volume limit. The interchangeable ear cups allow for individualized comfort, and durable vegan leather withstands life on the road.

BT2200-Plus Volume Limited Kids’ Bluetooth Headphones ($99) purosound.com

With patterns and colors that will make kids excited to pack their bags, State Bags has developed an organized and quality suitcase that will keep up with the family. The 360° spinner wheels make even heavy loads easy to tote and a separate mesh for dirty clothes keeps laundry in order. Recommended for ages 6 and up.

State Bags Logan Suitcase ($220) statebags.com

OTHER HELPFUL TIPS

Download the Libby App

Included with a local library membership, Libby offers free audio books for listening while traveling that can be conveniently downloaded on a phone or tablet.

Bring a First Aid Kit

We recommend including Bactine for cuts and scrapes and the Bug Bite Thing for mosquito bites or other stings.

Grab a Phone Holder

A phone mount is excellent for latching onto the tray tables on airplanes.

Stay Powered Up

"We weren’t ready to invest in a GoPro for a 7-year-old, but we found the less-expensive Akaso brand to be a great option with all of the gear and attachments. He can take it skiing, biking, snorkeling, sailing, and anywhere he wants without fear of losing or breaking it."

- Catherine Brown, Designer

Buy an OtterBox Fast Charge power bank to make sure all devices stay charged if you have a long day ahead of you.

($35) otterbox.com

“The Fast Charge power bank is strong enough to quickly charge all our devices when needed and lasts a while, too.”

- Lauren Moore, Director of Operations

Leave the expensive camera equipment behind and try a more affordable action camera. With 4K video, splashproof remote control, advance shooting modes, and a 170° wide-angle lens, travel memories can be captured with ease. It also comes with a variety of mounting accessories to clip in and go. Opt for the waterproof casing and take the camera underwater for even more excitement.

AKASO EK700 Action Camera Standalone ($69.99) akasotech.com

Photos courtesy of Nocs | Puro Sound | Akasotech | State Bags

DESTINATIONS

The World of Ker & Downey

AFRICA

EASTERN & SOUTHERN

Botswana

Ethiopia

Kenya

Madagascar

Mauritius

Mozambique

Namibia

Rwanda

Seychelles

South Africa

KENYA

Bring every generation of the family along on a truly incredible safari at Ol Jogi, a private home situated on 58,000 acres of pristine wilderness.

Tanzania

Uganda

Zambia

Zimbabwe

NAMIBIA

Create a fairytale adventure for the whole crew with a hot air balloon ride over the magical landscape of the Namib Desert.

WESTERN

SOUTH AFRICA

Enjoy a family-friendly exploration of the Cape Winelands with chocolate and cheese tastings, quad biking, or horseback riding.

SÃO TOMÉ AND PRÍNCIPE

Spend time in São Tomé and Príncipe exploring every inch of the extraordinary islands packed with activities available on foot, by car or by boat.

UGANDA

Take a break between primate treks and cultural experiences in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to visit the Pangolin Rescue Center to admire these extremely endangered scaled mammals up close.

Photos courtesy of Ol Jogi | Wilderness Little Kulala | HBD | iStock

Benin Gabon Ghana Republic of the Congo

São Tomé and Príncipe Senegal Togo

A family rides through a vineyard.

A TASTE OF FRANSCHHOEK

An escape to wine country in the Western Cape reveals more than sophisticated vintages.

BY LAUREN KRAMER

Talk to anyone who has visited Cape Town and they’ll get a dreamy look in their eyes when they recall Franschhoek and their time in the South African winelands. A verdant valley surrounded by the Boland Mountains, Franschhoek is one of the world’s oldest and best-known epicenters for viticulture, thanks to its range of terroir and the rich soil on the mountain flanks where the vineyards flourish.

We started the trip with a day-long Franschhoek experience, commuting an easy 45 minutes’ drive from the city. Minutes after leaving the highway we were in grape country, passing acre upon acre of picturesque vineyards, many of them surrounding Cape Dutch farmhouses with thatched roofs, white exteriors, and strikingly beautiful architecture.

A magnet for visitors, the town of Franschhoek's prime offering is wine tasting, but there are also horseback rides through the vineyards, biking trails, and a main road filled with art galleries, boutiques, and sophisticated restaurants. Eager for some exercise, we grabbed a few bikes and pedaled along quiet country roads up a hill to Mont Rochelle, Sir Richard Branson’s 37acre winery and boutique hotel.

“When Nelson Mandela came to power, one of his first calls was to Branson,” says our guide, Jacqui Smith. “Mandela asked him to invest in the country, and Branson agreed right away.” One of his purchases was this Franschhoek vineyard and its farmhouse, which dates back to 1608 and offers five-star accommodation with sweeping views of the valley. We puffed a bit further up the mountain on the bikes, rewarded by heart-pounding views of the mountains and vineyards below.

Franschhoek boasts over 200 wineries, so the hardest decision is choosing which ones to visit. We stopped at Le Lude for a tasting of its rosé wines, sitting in a glamorous, French colonial tasting room as we sipped, savored, and learned about Franschhoek's many microclimates and how they affect the constitution of the wine.

Wine has been a defining feature of Franschhoek since the late 1800s. When France outlawed Protestantism, French Huguenots fled the country. Some arrived by ship in Cape Town, settled in Franschhoek (‘French corner’ in Dutch), and began laying out the vineyards that exist today. You won’t hear a word of French today in Franschhoek, but the French influence lingers and many of the farms have stayed in the same families for generations.

Newer residents of Franschhoek have added their mark to the town, too. One of them is Pigcasso, a pig who loves nothing more than to paint, generating artwork that’s made her famous. Her owner, Joanne Lefson, is an animal lover determined to rescue animals from slaughter and to educate visitors about the inhumane conditions endured by animals farmed for their meat. She created Farm Sanctuary SA in Franschhoek in 2016, and Pigcasso, destined to be a pork chop at six months, was one of her first rescues from the slaughterhouse.

Lefson noted that Pigcasso destroyed just about everything — with one exception: some old paintbrushes that were in her pen. Curious to see what the pig would do, she gave it paint and

a canvas. Pigcasso picked up the paintbrush in her mouth and began painting. Since pigs are colorblind, Lefson helped by choosing the paint colors, and with her marketing flair and the buzz created by many media outlets, Pigcasso’s work began selling for thousands of dollars.

Today the proceeds from those abstract impressionist artworks sustain the sanctuary, a bright, welcoming farm where visitors can feed the animals, peruse the paintings, enjoy a wine tasting, and even spend a night in barn-style accommodations. In her senior years now, Pigcasso was in a deep slumber the day we stopped by, but her easel remains at the ready, and she’s still creating her singular artwork.

You can’t visit Franschhoek without stopping at Boschendal, one of its oldest and grandest wineries. We sat beneath the courtyard oak trees for a tasting of chardonnay, pinot noir, and syrah — wines that have helped bring acclaim to Franschhoek and that continue to impress even the most sophisticated wine palates the world over. It’s easy to spend an entire day at Boschendal alone, because apart from the gastronomical delights — gourmet picnics, fine dining meals, wine tastings, and a farm shop, butchery, and deli — the estate also offers farm tours, bike rides, horseback excursions, and guided hikes on its expansive property.

We ended the day with a riverside picnic lunch at Holden Manz wine estate. The picnics in Franschhoek are no ordinary affair — they are flavor-packed feasts that come with wine, picnic blankets, cushions, and a selection of carefully curated treats. We ambled through the estate’s vineyards to the water’s edge, laid out our picnic blanket, and spent a glorious hour nibbling delicacies and sipping rosé as turtledoves cooed down at us from the tree branches. It was one of those rare, perfect days, we agreed, the kind that lives long in memory and lifts your spirits at the recollection of spectacular wine grown in a verdant valley that’s steeped in history and replete with passionate artisans and even a painting pig!

"Don’t let the name fool you. The Winelands has plenty of opportunities for families and non-drinkers to experience. For touring with younger kids, swap out the mountain bikes Lauren used with e-bikes for a little help getting up those hills. Or opt for a quad bike adventure between vineyards before stopping for a private chocolate tasting. " - MJ Eraci, Designer

Photos courtesy of Mont Rochelle | Joanne

Lefson/pigcasso.org

Photos from top: Mont Rochelle; Bottom left: A wine tasting at Mont Rochelle; Bottom Right: Pigcasso with one of her paintings.

NORTH AFRICA

JORDAN

Spend the night in a private Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum for a truly immersive desert experience.

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Tour the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital with a falconry expert and see the falcons up close at the free-flight aviary.

MIDDLE EAST

MOROCCO

Head to the souks accompanied by a private guide equipped with a visual scavenger hunt, ready to keep young ones focused.

EGYPT

Visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization with a private Egyptologist guide and view the Royal Mummies Gallery.

OMAN

Take a private dhow cruise in the fjords of Musandam, keeping an eye out for pods of humpback whales and bottlenose dolphins.

Photos courtesy of iStock | H Ekd on Unsplash

A MOTHER’S MEMORIES OF MOROCCO

Ker & Downey Travel Designer Trista Gage shares why Morocco is a destination worth considering for young, curious minds.

AS TOLD TO RINA CHANDARANA

Arriving in a new destination after a long journey can be a little discombobulating. On our first morning, my 12-year-old daughter Nadine and I wake up early because of the nearby mosque’s beforedawn prayer. Since the adhan isn’t heard back home, we’re quickly reminded that we’re in Morocco.

Morocco seemingly couldn’t wait to welcome us with its rich blend of faiths, cultures, and traditions.

CULTURE THROUGH FOOD

It becomes immediately apparent that Morocco will fill both our hearts and stomachs.

During a day trip from Marrakesh to the Atlas Mountains, we meet a Berber family who teach us how to prepare a fragrant blend of meat, vegetables, and spices in an earthenware pot called tagine, along with fresh bread and warm cups of mint tea. The experience feels authentic, giving us a closer glimpse at village life in this remote place.

A giant ladle dips into an oversize vat of steaming hot soup in Marrakesh's Medina. The seller hands me a bowl, with olive oil drizzled on top. We chat with the local people on their lunch breaks as we eat the super delicious soup and sip traditional tea — both as warm and welcoming as the Moroccan people.

And at Essaouira's Marché aux Poissons, or fish market, the local fish mongers haggle with customers over the latest catch of salmon-pink prawns, shiny eels, spiky sea urchins, and sardines with scales glimmering in the warm seaside light. There is an incredible array of captivating creatures pulled from the bluegreen depths, all readily available for us to pick and choose what we want for lunch, cooked on the spot.

Food is almost always a concern for traveling parents, but Morocco is surprisingly easy for children’s appetites. Both couscous and tagine are fairly simple meals that are paired with grilled chicken or other meat. It is also acceptable to request raisins and figs (common in Moroccan cuisine) to be removed for more picky eaters. Even vegetarians have ample options here.

"There is an incredible array of captivating creatures pulled from the blue-green depths, all readily available for us to pick and choose what we want for lunch, cooked on the spot."

BRINGING MOROCCO TO LIFE

It is easy to get lost in Morocco's labyrinthine-like cities without an expert guide. Fez’s medina is a narrow patchwork of lanes, but our guide helps us navigate the maze of narrow lanes, where my my daughter searches for little trinkets to take back home, leaving me with no option but to buy another bag for all these Moroccan mementos created by talented artisans.

Our guides bring travel alive for Nadine, distilling cultural and historic information down into bitesize nuggets and stories, further immersing our family into Morocco’s fascinating cultural fabric.

But it's a two-way street: Our guide also appreciates Nadine and her insights into his home country. I can tell that he enjoys going out of his way to get to know her interests and engage with her. The locals value her all-in attitude and her willingness to learn about their traditions.

PRO TIP!

"Bring activities to entertain kids during long drives like drawing pads since Morocco is such a colorful place to capture with crayons." - Trista Gage, Designer

Opposite page: A local woman sells textiles in Fez; Top left: Trista Gage and her family preparing a meal in the Atlas Mountains; This page top right: A local fisherman in Essauouira.

Photos courtesy of Trista Gage | iStock | Gocha Szostak & Evgeny Matveev on Unsplash

MAKING FURRY FRIENDS

Nadine seems to find animals no matter where we are in the country.

In the desert town of Skoura she hears about a tortoise strolling the premises, but is disappointed she hasn’t spotted the hard-shelled fellow yet. Overhearing her dismay, our wonderful guide Mohammed briefly disappears, returning with the tiny tortoise, to my daughter’s delight.

Even on the long and dusty drive from Fez to the spellbinding Sahara Desert, we encounter a group of camels. Before we set out on our camel ride through the sweeping sands, Nadine proceeds to excitedly name the funny creatures.

And in Essaouira, stray cats eagerly sit below the carts in hopes of a tasty meal slipping down to the wet stones. A precious kitten crawls onto Nadine’s foot, immediately earning a place in my daughter’s animal-loving heart.

When we bid farewell to Morocco several days later, I am almost tempted to check Nadine’s bag for her cuddly friend.

KID-FRIENDLY TRAVEL TIPS

The more time you have in Morocco, the better. Eight days is good, but two weeks will give you a more varied experience.

Skip trying to see every Moroccan city, opting for either Marrakesh, Essaouira, and Skoura or Rabat, Fez, and Tangiers.

Stay an extra night in the desert to really get a chance to relax before heading off again on your journey.

Desert camping in the Sahara.

A sleeping cat in a market.

Photos courtesy of Amanjena | iStock | Samuel C on Unsplash

"As a parent, I feel Morocco offered the opportunity to immerse my daughter in a place so different from home where we could learn about different cultures, try delicious cuisine, and learn about Moroccan customs."

ROAD TRIPS AND RELAXATION

“Are we there yet?” is a phrase I thankfully don't hear much of from Nadine during our sometimes very long journeys across Morocco. With limited domestic flights, the only way to get from place to place is by car, sometimes on road trips as long as eight hours. To banish the boredom, Nadine downloads stories to listen to in the car.

With the long distances, it once again helps having a guide in Morocco. They allow us to visit several places to break up the lengthy car journeys. One memorable stop is at the ancient wells where we learn how water (a scarce resource) was collected long ago.

Fortunately, these road trips are also combined with plenty of immersion and relaxation. At a beautifully restored kasbah and spa in Skoura, we find just that. Nadine is happy to hang out in the hotel swimming pool, and we parents are thrilled to be pampered in the hammam. We only wish we carved out more time for picnicking under the palms (though we find contentment in lingering over casual breakfasts and lunches served in the garden inhabited by some more adorable kittens).

Since returning home, Nadine remembers our time in Morocco fondly — our camel ride in the desert, our fun sidecar tour through Marrakesh, our many pottery and cooking experiences, her henna tattoo, and, of course, the families and guides we connected with along the way. As a parent, I feel Morocco offered the opportunity to immerse my daughter in a place so different from home where we could learn about different cultures, try delicious cuisine, and learn about Moroccan customs. Travel offers a new and humble perspective of the world. My hope is to give this to our daughter whenever we travel together.

From

top: A sidecar at Amanjena; Traditional henna

ASIA

BHUTAN

CAMBODIA

CHINA

INDIA

INDONESIA

JAPAN

KAZAKHSTAN

LAOS

MALAYSIA

MALDIVES

MONGOLIA

NEPAL

PHILIPPINES

SINGAPORE

SOUTH KOREA

INDONESIA

Learn to “hang ten” with surfing lessons from an expert at one of Bali’s stunning luxury resorts.

SRI LANKA

THAILAND

VIETNAM

UZBEKISTAN

THAILAND

Charter a private yacht for a cruise along Phuket's beautiful beaches, then retire in the evening to a private villa or luxury resort.

SOUTH KOREA

Follow in the footsteps of famous K-Pop stars on a privately guided tour to popular music video filming locations.

VIETNAM

PHILIPPINES

Between August and January, have the whole family take over one of Amanpulo’s luxury villas on Pamalican Island and witness the annual release of green and hawksbill sea turtle hatchlings.

Younger and older travelers alike will be truly captivated by a water puppet performance in Hanoi, with guaranteed front-row seats to allow for the best views.

Photos courtesy of Point Yamu by COMO | COMO Uma Canguu | Yu Kato on Unsplash | iStock

Angkor Thom, Dei Chhang Gate (Northern Gate)

BEYOND THE TEMPLES OF ANGKOR WAT

The Jewels of Khmer Artistry

WRITTEN & PHOTOGRAPHED

BY BHARATH MOHAN

For centuries, the Cambodian temple complex of Angkor Wat has been a beacon of fascination for scholars, historians, and travelers alike. Built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu but later transformed into a Buddhist monument. The sprawling complex spans more than 400 acres, making it the largest religious monument in the world.

Angkor’s towering spires, expansive courtyards, and impossibly intricate stone carvings still stand as a testament to the architectural prowess and spiritual devotion of the Khmer people.

As technology has advanced, scientists have gained a new understanding of what the Khmer empire looked like at the apex of their power, and since 2015, LiDAR-generated maps have revealed an elaborate urban landscape stretching across the provinces of modern-day Cambodia.

I had visited once before, almost 14 years ago, and armed with new information, had to come back with a newfound sense of wonder and curiosity. So, I packed my bags, flew to Siem Reap, and rode across dusty roads and through dense jungles to explore some of the lesser-known temples and hidden treasures of the region. My journey started at Koh Ker.

The Koh Ker Stepped Pyramid

Inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage List in September 2023, Koh Ker was the capital of the Khmer Empire for a brief period in the 10th century AD and is believed by some to be the center of a lost civilization. Veiled in centuriesold mystery and fascination, local lore speaks of a powerful ruler who sought to defy the gods and ascend to immortality, with whispers of concealed chambers and secret passages buried deep within its stone-wall confines waiting to be discovered.

Situated approximately 2.5-hours northeast of Siem Reap, the central point of the Koh Ker architectural landscape is the Prasat Thom — a stepped pyramid structure that bears a striking resemblance to the Mesoamerican pyramids, particularly those crafted by the Mayans, such as Tikal, Chichen Itza, and Uxmal. The pyramids of both cultures share a remarkable precision in their construction and alignment with celestial bodies, hinting at an advanced knowledge of planetary motions — an aspect that continues to captivate archaeologists and historians to this day.

"Skip the 2.5-hour drive and take a private helicopter flip from Siem Reap to Koh Ker to see this stunning site in the morning before the day’s heat and humidity set in."

- Vanessa Niven, Product Manager

Banteay Srei: The Citadel of Women

Approximately one hour north of Siem Reap, tucked away amidst the verdant Cambodian countryside, are the temple ruins of Banteay Srei. Constructed in stunning pink sandstone, the carvings are so intricate that it is said they could only have been crafted by the hands of celestial beings, giving rise to the moniker "The Citadel of Women."

Banteay Srei was the most visually striking of all the sites I explored, and under the harsh daytime sunlight, the unique blushing sandstone color made the whole temple come to life in a fiery red glow. A lush forest set a calming background, and the moat waters reflected the temple in perfect symmetry.

Venturing inside, every wall of the temple was adorned with distinctive carvings — stories from Hindu mythology leaping off the walls as floral motifs, divine beings, and meticulously sculpted devatas (divine female figures) as 3D reliefs.

One of the most famous carvings that you’ll see here is the portrayal of the divine dancer Apsara, etched in fine elegance and grace. The Apsara is depicted in various poses and postures and significantly juxtaposes the imposing guardian figures surrounding each temple.

Three children fish and play on the outer walls of the Prasat Thom stepped pyramid.

"These sprawling complexes are nestled deep within the jungle, where moss-covered stones and tangled roots create an otherworldly atmosphere — as if the Earth itself has reclaimed the ancient ruins."

Reclaimed Ruins

Stepping into the temples of Ta Prohm, Prasat Beng Mealea, and Preah Khan feels like entering a forgotten realm where nature and architecture entwine in a dance of time. These sprawling complexes are nestled deep within the jungle, where moss-covered stones and tangled roots create an otherworldly atmosphere — as if the Earth itself has reclaimed the ancient ruins.

It’s an experience unlike any other, to wander through the labyrinthine corridors that once served as a haven for thousands of monks and scholars. I spent many moments here in silence, trying to imagine the knowledge and energy that must have been flowing as people passed through for healing and spiritual enlightenment.

Prasat Beng Mealea took the crown for my pick of all the sites beyond Angkor. Approximately one-hour east of Siem Reap, the ruins remain largely unrestored, and exploring the site feels like embarking on a journey of discovery through millennia. I happened to walk in a few hours before sunset, and the light beams cutting through the dusty jungle haze provided a spectacular backdrop to the ruins that emerged from the overgrown jungle path.

Wooden walkways allow visitors to cut through most of the levels of the complex, where hidden chambers, ornamental bas-reliefs and towering galleries rise above the surrounding landscape. Most magnificent of all is how the trees and roots have reclaimed the site — intertwined with and growing through the rocks themselves, in all of nature’s complexity.

We learn that its remote location amidst the dense jungle allowed the Khmer kings to connect with the natural world and commune with the gods in seclusion, away from the prying eyes of courtiers and rival kingdoms.

What a stunning place this must have been during the peak of the Khmer reign.

A tree reclaims the ruins at Ta Prohm.

A Place of Wonder for the Whole Family

The temples beyond Angkor promise to be a highlight on any family trip — bringing a sense of wonder and adventure for young ones and parents alike. With knowledgeable and passionate guides striking up images of Kingdoms past, the whole family will learn from stories that bring these ancient temples to life.

And true to style, coupled with five-star accommodations, delicious food, and a vibrant culture, Cambodia is a destination that captivates all, and leaves them wanting to come back for more.

Two Cambodian children play amongst the ruins of Koh Ker.

KER & DOWNEY RECOMMENDS

Ker & Downey’s expert travel designers are at their best when customizing a special journey just for you. Here are our top recommendations when visiting Cambodia.

THE ITINERARY CAMBODIAN CHIC

11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

This stunning 11-day getaway unlocks the style and grandeur of Cambodia and its exquisite melding of ancient and modern culture. From UNESCO World Heritage sites and ancient wonders to modern dining and beach leisure, this is an unforgettable way to experience the temples, cuisine, treasures, and coastal retreats in this diverse and majestic land.

WHERE TO STAY

Raffles Hotel Le Royal

The beautifully restored Raffles Hotel Le Royal has hosted journalists, writers, royalty, and an array of international guests since its inception in 1929. Highly acclaimed by Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler, this historic haven marries modern luxury with old world charm in the heart of Phnom Penh.

Amansara

Formerly a guest house for the King of Cambodia, Amansara has been modernized and converted into an intimate boutique hotel on the outskirts of the historic city of Siem Reap. Its stunning location, a short distance from the Angkor Archaeological Park UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to more than 100 temples, is paired with contemporary luxury to ensure an exceptional Cambodian experience.

KER & DOWNEY GIVES BACK

SUGGESTED JOURNEY AT A GLANCE:

DAY 1-4 SIEM REAP | AMANSARA

DAY 5-6 PHNOM PENH | RAFFLES HOTEL LE ROYAL

DAY 7-11 KOH RONG ARCHIPELAGO | SONG SAA

PRIVATE ISLAND

Song Saa Private Island

Leave the world behind and enter the enchanting untouched paradise of Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia’s first private island resort where luxurious relaxation and splendid natural delights take center stage. Spanning two tropical islands in the pristine Koh Rong Archipelago, Song Saa — Khmer for “The Sweethearts”— is a deserted oasis of virgin rainforests, tropical reefs, and white beaches surrounded by sapphire waters ... the perfect island getaway.

Did you know that Ker & Downey has been supporting ABOUTAsia Travel's philanthropic efforts for over a decade? What started as building schools in underprivileged areas of Siem Reap has now morphed into helping fund scholarships for hospitality specialty schools. We proudly support the education of youth in Cambodia. See more on pg. 9

Photo by Austin Mann

Song Saa Private Island

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Set off on a whale watching excursion in an open-air Zodiac through the Juan de Fuca Strait, home to killer, humpback, and gray whales, as well as sea otters and porpoises.

ALBERTA

Go white-water rafting together along the Sunwapta River in Jasper.

COLORADO

Get your hands dirty as you mine for precious stones at an authentic mining sluice near Telluride.

QUÉBEC

Sample the delicacies of a micro coffee roastery, goat cheese maker, and other purveyors at the open-air Jean-Talon Market.

UTAH

Test your navigational skills with a fun geocaching treasure hunt amid the pristine 3,500acre wilderness surrounding The Lodge at Blue Sky.

Photos courtesy of The Lodge at Big Sky | Moise M on Unsplash | iStock

Mom and cub polar bears in Churchill

BEARS AND BELUGAS, OH MY!

Travel to Manitoba for a unique summer break spent amid the resident wildlife, on land and below water.

BY LAUREN KRAMER

There is only one place in North America where you can watch hundreds of beluga whales cavort in the wild, their gleaming white bodies arching above the surface of the water. Its name is Churchill, a small town in northern Manitoba 1,200 miles from the province’s capital, where the population of people is diminishing, but not the number of whales.

Some 5,000 beluga whales spend their summer in western Hudson Bay, while up to 3,000 head to the Churchill River estuary. The two waterways meet at the lip of land bordered by Churchill, and the whales move in and out of the estuary with the tides as they feed on capelin and Lake Cisco fish. At first glance from land, the belugas look like sandbars, or whitecaps on the waves. But look closely and you realize those whitecaps are actually hundreds of smooth beluga backs, surfacing briefly for air before they dive down again.

They come to calve in the Churchill river in the summer, and by the middle of August, there are gray-brown baby belugas to be found in every pod, their color fading first to gray-blue and then to white as they mature.

To get a better view, I clad myself in a thick wetsuit, life jacket, and neoprene boots and hop into a single, sturdy kayak in the Churchill River, allowing myself to gently paddle through the low tide. At first I see nothing but great blue-green vastness ahead of me, the occasional jellyfish floating along the surface. Then suddenly they are below and all around me: a pod of ephemeral, ghostly beluga whales swimming gracefully through the water.

Sound is everything to these mammals, whose chirping and shrill, seagull-like calls have earned them the nickname "canaries of the sea", for they are the world’s most vocal whales. So I start to hum and soon find myself a few feet from an eight-foot beluga, which turns its body toward my kayak. Releasing a balloon of bubbles that cascade upwards, the beluga slips playfully from its stomach to its back, and then, with a barely visible movement of its tail, it is gone.

They are spectacular to watch, these gliding, 13-foot mammals who live up to 60 years and can dive to depths of nearly 2,000 feet without even feeling the cold. On a summer’s day in Churchill, even a wetsuit can’t keep the splashes of 42-degree Fahrenheit water from chilling my bones, yet I stay the course, transfixed by the eerie beauty of these underwater habitants.

At first the belugas keep a cautious 15-foot distance from me. But after a half hour they are friendlier, their bodies trailing our kayak's wake. In the Churchill River, they can cavort in relative safety from their two main predators: orca and Greenland sharks.

"THEN SUDDENLY THEY ARE BELOW AND ALL AROUND ME: A POD OF EPHEMERAL, GHOSTLY BELUGA WHALES SWIMMING GRACEFULLY THROUGH THE WATER."

Two curious belugas in the Hudson Bay.

There are two main draws to Churchill, a town with few paved roads and one accessible only by air, sea, or rail. One of them is the belugas. The other is its polar bears.

The belugas don’t disturb anyone, but with the bears, it’s a different story.

Churchill is a natural stopping point for the population of close to 1,000 polar bears that roam this terrain. In the summer, when the ice begins to melt, the 1,760-lb carnivores come on land 80 miles away and prepare to while away the hot days until October, when ice begins to form on Hudson Bay once again.

From July to November, the bears are on the hunt for belugas following a winter diet consisting primarily of seals. Instinctively, they know that the bay will soon ice over, meaning their winter sojourn in search of food can begin. So, they pace the tundra, testing the ice, resting to conserve energy, scavenging for edible seaweed and occasionally, sparring with other bears.

It’s one thing to see polar bears in a zoo, where they’re at a safe distance and possessed by the lethargy and boredom that goes hand in hand with confinement. But to see them in the wild is a completely different experience. With no natural enemies but man, the bears are king in this environment, capable of picking up a scent 20 miles away and detecting their prey under three feet of snow and ice.

Of the 16,000 polar bears in Canada, an excess of 900 of them pass through Churchill and the Hudson Bay area each year, earning the town the nickname the ‘polar

SEASONALITY

The ideal polar bear viewing season runs from July through November.

bear capital of the world.’ Though the number of actual bears is relatively small, it’s their concentration that makes this area remarkable.

While most travelers will opt for massive Tundra Buggies to transport them across the tundra of Churchill en masse to spot these great ice bears, the best and most intimate experience resides in a few exclusive fly-in safari lodges outside of town. Here, you are invited to walk amid the polar bears. Accompanied by several expert naturalist guides, just a handful of adventurers-at-heart venture single-file by foot along the Hudson Bay coastline in search of not only bears, but also wolves, arctic fox, arctic hare, moose, and birdlife.

For those who question the safety of such an outing, rest assured that the lodge guides have been thoroughly trained in reading the bears’ expressions and come armed with five levels of deterrents. Though after more than three decades of leading walking safaris, they have never once had to shoot a bear. After seeing the guides in action, you can see why: their immense amount of respect for these animals greatly exceeds their fear.

The first polar bear I see is fast asleep, a bundle of yellow fur curled up and totally oblivious to the camera shutters clicking in a wild effort to capture his peaceful slumber. Bear number two is equally disinterested in his human onlookers, but at least he’s not playing dead. He’s hauling his 1,500-lb torso on a long, slow amble across the tundra.

The polar bear and beluga whale seasons overlap for a short time during the July and August summer vacation months. Black bears, wolves, and — if you're lucky — foxes, hares, and moose can also be spotted during this time.

Since Churchill lies directly below the Auroral Oval in the Northern Hemisphere, the Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, illuminates the sky nearly 300 nights per year. The best viewing opportunities are August through November and late January through April

Photos courtesy of Churchill WIld, Paul Perrett & Dennis Fast

From left: The Northern Lights illuminate Churchill; A polar bear laying in the snow.

Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge

Photos courtesy of Churchill WIld, Robert Postma & John Donelson

At times over the years, the bears’ path has conflicted with that of Churchill’s residents. To solve the problem, a polar bear holding facility was established in 1982 to incarcerate pesky bears that frequent the town dump or the town itself. With a capacity of 28, the facility jails the bears in solitary confinement until the bay freezes over, at which point they’re released onto the ice. The facility works in conjunction with a Polar Bear Alert Program, a 24-hour service that keeps track of bears around Churchill, and deposits them in the holding facility when necessary. When the jail is full, offending bears are flown north by helicopter and released onto the ice where they’re less likely to cause havoc.

Once a bear has learned to associate the town with food, it’s difficult to break that behavior pattern. Many residents have stories of close bear encounters with potentially lethal outcomes, and the bear jail and alert program help the town’s population rest easier at night. Over the last four decades, the holding facility has been utilized about 2,350 times, reducing the number of defense kills considerably and therefore protecting both the human and bear populations that call this region home.

The risk of bear encounters forces people to live more cautiously. There are signs everywhere warning that bears could be close and encouraging visitors and residents to keep their wits sharp and their eyes open. Still, there’s more chance of being killed by a bus than a bear in this town, locals say.

Those who make their home in Churchill do so with passion. During my visit, I met some of the town’s colorful residents. Among them was a young bus driver who vowed he would never leave, and a wildlife photographer who ventures out in snowstorms to capture the beauty of the tundra, building an igloo for shelter and drawing inspiration from the wind-sculpted snow.

I also met researchers who have studied the effects of climate change on the polar bear population. Concerns surrounding global warming on Arctic Sea ice — the polar bear's hunting grounds — have set off alarm bells for conservationists and scientists for decades. After all, less hunting time on the ice translates to more time on land, which leads to less body weight and, eventually, severe implications on their ability to give birth and wean their cubs.

And yet, the Western Hudson Bay polar bear numbers have proven resilient compared to their Arctic neighbors. According to a 2024 report by zoologist Dr. Susan Crockford for The Global Warming Policy Foundation, not only have polar bear numbers in Western Hudson Bay not declined since 2004; a recent 2021 survey of Southern Hudson Bay bear populations actually increased 30% over five years.*

This population is one of the world's most celebrated, and their survival continues to buck the scientific trends, despite all previous research saying otherwise.

For travelers seeking safe, responsible, close-up encounters with polar bears in their natural environment, there is simply no place like Churchill. The ‘polar bear capital of the world’ continues to wear its stripes proudly.

*Source: thegwpf.org/content/uploads/2024/02/Crockford-State-of-Polar-Bears-2023.pdf

PROPERTY SPOTLIGHTS

Seal River Heritage Lodge

Perched on the rugged coast of Hudson Bay lies Seal River Heritage Lodge, one of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World. Located near the Seal River Estuary, this Lodge is in a prime location for observing polar bears as they wander the coast during the summer and fall and wait for the Bay to freeze, and viewing beluga whales in July and August.

Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge

Situated next to pristine Arctic waters on Hudson Bay with Canada’s Boreal Forest as its backyard sits Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge, another one of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World. The diverse ecosystem surrounding Nanuk is home to Canadian icons such as polar bears, black bears, wolves, and moose.

Dymond Lake Lodge

The location of Dymond Lake Lodge, nestled near the treeline of the Boreal Forest, gives it a true wilderness feeling. Being close to both the coast and the forest means the variety of wildlife is unparalleled. Polar bears, moose, fox, pine marten, snowy owls, and even the elusive wolverine are known visitors of this unique destination.

A wolf in Churchill.

LATIN AMERICA

NICARAGUA

Escape to the beautiful Emerald Coast and the five private beaches of Rancho Santana, home to some of Nicaragua’s best surf breaks and surf instructors.

PERU

Step into the heart of a professional kitchen in Lima to create some of the country's most delicious dishes together.

GUYANA

Charter a plane over hundreds of miles of unbroken tropical rainforest to Kaieteur Falls, the world’s highest freefalling waterfall.

ARGENTINA

BELIZE

BOLIVIA

BRAZIL

CHILE

COLOMBIA COSTA RICA CUBA

FRENCH GUIANA

GUATEMALA

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

GUYANA

HONDURAS

MEXICO

NICARAGUA PANAMA PERU

SAINT LUCIA

Ride the aerial tram for 360-degree views of the island, followed by some epic all-ages zip lining amid the forest reserve.

SURINAME URUGUAY

BELIZE

Swim, paddleboard, or kayak around postcard-perfect Tobacco Caye, a tiny five-acre island perched on the barrier reef in the South Water Caye Marine Reserve.

Photos courtesy of Rancho Santana |

PANTANAL UNVEILED: BRAZIL'S BEST-KEPT WILDLIFE SECRET

A father-daughter duo embarks on an extraordinary adventure into the heart of Brazil's Pantanal to discover the captivating wonders of this overlooked wildlife haven, from majestic jaguars to the vibrant tapestry of its sprawling wetlands.

BY HALEY BEHAM

It was a sweltering summer in Texas. By mid-September of 2023, San Antonio had broken a record for most days over 100-degrees Fahrenheit in one year: 74. Usually, people in Texas head north to places like Colorado and Montana for the summer to escape the heat. But I was heading south, just days after San Antonio saw its last triple-digit day. In the weeks leading up to my trip to Brazil, I checked the weather app incessantly and watched as the temperature climbed to wellover 100-degrees. I braced myself for more hot, humid days that would be spent outside as I packed my bags.

"While

almost everyone has heard about the Amazon, not many know of the Pantanal in Brazil. This jewel of a destination has flown under the radar for years."

The mighty Pantanal

My dad and I exchanged a few text messages about what camera equipment we would be taking and how light we could practically pack. This would be our third father-daughter trip together. In college, he met me in Italy while I was studying abroad, and we traveled around Tuscany and found our favorite pizza joint. Then a few years ago, we traveled to West Texas together on a long weekend. Not to mention all the family trips to Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Egypt. But this time we were heading to Brazil’s Pantanal to photograph jaguars on the Cuiabá riverbanks, just the two of us.

Triple-digit temperatures be damned! It was prime viewing season for jaguars in Brazil’s Pantanal.

While almost everyone has heard about the Amazon, not many know of the Pantanal in Brazil. This jewel of a destination has flown under the radar for years.

Located in the upper Paraguay River basin, most of the Pantanal lies within Brazil’s borders; however, it extends into Bolivia and Paraguay as well. At 68,000 square miles, the Pantanal is the world’s largest freshwater wetlands. Yes, it’s bigger than Botswana’s Okavango Delta. And similar to the Okavango Delta, it floods each year during the rainy season, creating a vast flooded landscape with a proliferation of fish. As the water begins to recede, it creates pools of water filled with aquatic life, which then attract various species of birds such as egrets and storks. And while the Amazon often overshadows the Pantanal, the Pantanal has the highest concentration of wildlife in

South America. More than 650 species of birds and 270 species of fish can be found there.

But its many fish and bird species aren’t the only animals drawn to this flooded savanna. While giant river otters, marsh deer, and tapirs can be found along the waterways searching for food, jaguars are undoubtedly the star of the show.

Tourism in the Pantanal to see the jaguars is relatively new. Up until about 15 years ago, you wouldn’t see jaguars on the riverbanks. But after decades of motorboat traffic from the fishermen, the jaguars have slowly become habituated to boats on the river. And while the male jaguars are still a bit shy, female jaguars are often seen with their cubs walking along the water’s edge.

For our best shot at seeing and photographing jaguars, my dad and I headed down to Porto Jofre, located in southern Brazil along the Cuiabá River. To get there, you can either fly from Cuiabá on a 45-minute chartered flight or buckle up for a bumpy five-hour drive along the Transpantaneira Road, a mostly dirt road with more than 120 bridge crossings. The drive promises some nice wildlife spotting opportunities of tapirs, marsh deer, caiman, capybara, and coati, while the flight transfer offers those epic aerial views.

We arrived in Porto Jofre in the late afternoon and settled into our accommodations to ready our gear for the next day’s adventure.

From left: A pair of capybaras; Colorful birds dot the landscape.

"In total, we saw six jaguars on our first day."

THE ITINERARY

PANTANAL JAGUAR SAFARI

10 DAYS / 9 NIGHTS

From north to south, Ker & Downey traverses the full breadth of the Pantanal on this 10-day safari in search of the region’s resident jaguars. A journey through the the Pantanal reveals a lush, megadiverse biome sheltering the largest concentration of wildlife in the Americas.

SUGGESTED JOURNEY AT A GLANCE:

DAY 1: ARRIVE SÃO PAULO | ROSEWOOD SÃO PAULO

DAY 2-3: NORTH PANTANAL | AYMARA LODGE

DAY 4-6: PORTO JOFRE | HOTEL PANTANAL NORTE

DAY 7-9: SOUTH PANTANAL | CAIMAN LODGE

DAY 10: DEPARTURE

A jaguar mother and cub sighting.

A close-up of a coati.

The following day, after a quick breakfast, we boarded our boat and departed with our guide and driver just after first light. We cruised the river for 30 minutes before reaching the Pantanal Matogrossense National Park, each minute building our anticipation for a potential jaguar sighting. Along the way, my eyes constantly scanned the riverbanks, sweeping back and forth for the tiniest movement or change in pattern. Not too long after reaching the national park, we were rewarded with our first sighting — a female jaguar swimming in the river.

We soon found that jaguar sightings in the Pantanal are similar to Mara River crossings in Kenya. Guides are on the radio, talking with each other, sharing sighting locations with others. Soon, several boats arrived to see the jaguar, with each boat driver jockeying for the best position so that their guests could get the quintessential shot of the jaguar on camera.

After several minutes of speeding up to get to the front of the pack, then waiting as others moved around us, we left to find another sighting.

It didn’t take long until we found a mother and cub walking in and out of the trees along the riverbank, periodically coming down to the river to a shady spot for a rest. At one point, the mother laid down, and the cub, eager for the mother’s attention, went over to her and nuzzled its head against hers. The sweet

moment soon turned into a funny one as the mother, who — like so many weary mothers of toddlers — just wanted a moment alone. She allowed a mere second of affection before turning away.

Later that afternoon, we found a pair of brothers lying in a shady spot under trees right at the water's edge. Every now and then, one would pick up his head and glance around, but they never got up from their cool spot.

In total, we saw six jaguars on our first day.

The next morning, we had an early wake-up call for an hour-long cruise through the Cuiabá River’s tributaries in search of giant river otters.

Giant river otters are social and live in a family unit. They can grow five to six feet in length and weigh up to 70 lbs. In my head, I pictured a cute, furry animal. But giant river otters have sharp teeth and webbed feet and when they are eating a fish (or rather, ripping it to shreds), they look quite ferocious.

Once we found the family, we watched as they swam and played, hunted for fish, and ate. Contrasted to our experience with twentyplus boats at one jaguar sighting from the previous day, we were the only boat watching the giant river otters that morning.

PRO TIPS!

How to plan the perfect Pantanal safari

The rainy season is from November to March. The dry season — and best time to view jaguars — is from June to September, with May and October as a shoulder season to the dry season.

You will most likely need to overnight in São Paulo ahead of a Pantanal safari. Fortunately, major hubs like Houston and Atlanta offer easy direct flights to São Paulo.

Take advantage of the lack of jet lag. Porto Jofre is located in a similar time zone as the United States, so you’ll hardly notice a difference in time zones. Less time adjusting to time changes equals more time for exploring.

Beginning April 2024, travelers from the United States, Canada, and Australia need to acquire an E-Visa to enter Brazil.

Yellow fever vaccines are recommended but not required when visiting the Pantanal and Amazon.

Follow Ker & Downey's Pantanal packing guide, including the photography equipment that Haley and David took on their trip, on kerdowney.com.

A giant otter enjoys a meal.

Later, we left the otters in search of more jaguars. Just inside the park boundaries, we found a female stalking a caiman in the water. We followed slowly, watched, and kept our cameras fixed on her, waiting for her to make a pounce. She crossed the river and weaved through the vegetation. It was a slow, steady stalk. We stayed with her for about two hours and covered about half a mile.

After a few unsuccessful attempts to catch the caiman, we called it a morning and went back to camp. But it left me wondering if the boats, some of which got quite close to her, impeded her ability to catch a caiman.

Over the next several years, jaguar tourism will change a lot. We’ll start to see more upscale hotel options open, more infrastructure put in place, and — ideally — even more conservation efforts adopted to protect this incredible ecosystem.

For this father-daughter duo, seeing jaguars in the wild was a truly incredible experience and one we will keep with us forever.

David and Haley explore the Pantanal.

EUROPE

NORTHERN & WESTERN

AUSTRIA

BELGIUM

DENMARK

ENGLAND

ESTONIA

FINLAND

ITALY

FRANCE

GERMANY

GREENLAND

ICELAND

IRELAND

LATVIA

From Buontalenti to Vivoli, discover and taste the traditions behind Italian gelato in different but equally delicious laboratories.

LIECHTENSTEIN

LITHUANIA

LUXEMBOURG

MONACO

NETHERLANDS

NORWAY

CROATIA

Explore Korčula Island by buggy, off-roading to ancient olive groves, picturesque vineyards, and enchanting beaches.

SCOTLAND

SWEDEN

SWITZERLAND

WALES

EASTERN & SOUTHERN

ALBANIA

ARMENIA

AZERBAIJAN

BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

BULGARIA CROATIA CZECH REPUBLIC

GEORGIA

GREECE

HUNGARY ITALY

MALTA

MOLDOVA

MONTENEGRO

POLAND

PORTUGAL

ROMANIA

THE NETHERLANDS

Set out on a family bike ride around the city and along the AmsterdamRhine canal to Muiderslot Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

IRELAND

SERBIA

SLOVAKIA

SLOVENIA

SPAIN

TÜRKIYE

Take a Bodhrán music lesson to learn the art of rhythmic drumming and connect with the rich cultural heritage of traditional Irish music.

FRANCE

Partake in an imaginative Escape Game through the gardens of Versailles alongside D’Artagnan's cousin to uncover the Queen's missing jewels.

Photos courtesy of Roundstone, Co_Master Stephen Power | Lucija Ros & Jean-Carlo Emer on Unsplash | iStock

A hike with man’s best friend in Switzerland.

SWISS FAMILY RECIPE

Product Manager Elizabeth Frels outlines the best regions and tours for a perfect family holiday in Switzerland.

A lot goes into making the perfect family vacation truly perfect. Depending on the family, this could mean identifying the best all-inclusive resort for a long weekend together or setting out on an epic road trip through national parks, with nothing but a map and the open road ahead of them. For others, it might be discovering and immersing themselves in a different country and culture, or witnessing nature in its rawest form, without cages, windows, or screens.

No matter what the “perfect family vacation” might mean to you, the very best family trips often involve a precise recipe of four simple ingredients: Relaxation, Exploration, Education, and Adventure.

And while it might be possible to extract these ingredients from most destinations, very few offer an abundance of them like Switzerland.

Between its idyllic lakes and cobblestone towns, epic mountain summits, historic and efficient railways, iconic cheese and chocolate, and museums galore, Switzerland has enough Relaxation, Exploration, Education, and Adventure to create a truly unforgettable family holiday recipe.

Here are five unmissable Swiss regions and how to ensure a perfect family experience in each.

Zurich

The country’s financial and commercial hub, Zurich might be Switzerland’s main metropolis, but it’s also compact and a delight to explore with its cobbled streets and peaceful lakeside setting. It’s a must on any greater Switzerland trip.

RELAXATION

Swim in one of the bathing clubs in the Limmat River in the center of Old Town. These open-air baths, affectionately called “Badi," are an integral part of daily life and offer a chance to relax amid the stunning scenery.

EXPLORATION

Take a day trip to Bern — Switzerland’s capital — to visit the Museum of Communication where children and adults can discover new worlds of communication together. Or, perhaps stop into the Paul Klee Museum with its unique children’s painting atelier. While here, don’t miss the atmospheric Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lined with arcades with the soundtrack of the hourly chimes coming from the medieval clock tower.

EDUCATION

Visit a local chocolatier for a chocolate workshop to learn all about Swiss chocolate: the origins of cocoa, the ingredients used, and production. Taste different types of chocolate then create your own Swiss sweets. Afterwards, keep the sugar rush going with tea and chocolate cake at Café Sprüngli of Lindt family fame.

ADVENTURE

OUR FAVORITE HOTEL

Baur au Lac

Set in its own park — a rare gem in the heart of the city — this elegant icon provides a tranquil oasis with the lake's azure waters and the Alps as a backdrop.

Explore Zurich by E-tuk tuk together. The three-wheeled vehicle is a little like a posh golf cart (but much more comfortable), so it’s perfect for navigating both the narrowcobbled streets of the Old Town and the wide shopping mile of Bahnhofstrasse.

Baur au Lac in Zurich

The Lindt chocolate factory

Photos courtesy of Switzerland Tourism

Park Hotel Vitznau

Baur au Lac

Lucerne

The veritable heart and gateway to central Switzerland, Lucerne is a cute and compact city known for its colorful Old Town, snowcapped mountain panoramas, beautiful lakeside setting, and many squares and churches. While its medieval heritage still shines bright (it houses the oldest covered wooden bridge in Europe), its modern amenities and sensibilities sit comfortably side by side with its tradition.

RELAXATION

Embark on a quiet cruise on Lake Lucerne. Board either a magnificently restored 100-year-old Belle Epoque Steamship for an authentic experience or opt for a luxurious motor cruiser with covered deck for a completely private one.

EXPLORATION

Venture up Mount Rigi via cogwheel train from Vitznau. Opened in 1871, the Rigibahn was Europe's first mountain railway and still holds its bygone allure. The train climbs from the palm trees along the lake to the Rigi Kulm summit — “The Queen of the Mountains” — at 5,895 feet in just under an hour. After a bit of hiking or mountaintop playground hopping, descend back to Vitznau like locals in a four-seater coin-operated private gondola.

EDUCATION

Explore the Swiss Museum of Transport, an interactive facility highlighting the history of road, rail, water, air, and space travel. Documentaries are shown in XXL format on the biggest screen in Switzerland, the planetarium offers a 360-degree flight to the stars, the Media World delves into communication trends, and the Swiss Chocolate Adventure shows the journey from cocoa bean to Swiss chocolate. Plus, Swiss Travel Pass holders receive a 50% discount on their visit.

ADVENTURE

Go rafting on a day trip to Interlaken. The Lütschine River offers some of the best whitewater rafting in the Swiss Alps, with continuous Class III-IV rapids surging down from the mountains and out into the Interlaken Valley and the Lake of Brienz. Adventurous families will love the exhilarating rush from start to finish.

"Kids ages 16 and younger can travel for free by public transportation around Switzerland with the Swiss Family Card."

- Elizabeth Frels, Europe Product Manager

OUR FAVORITE HOTEL

Park Hotel Vitznau

Tranquil, relaxing, and awardwinning, this exclusive guest house offers private access to Lake Lucerne, delicious cuisine, and all the indulgent amenities.

From right: Bathtub views at Park Hotel Vitznau; Crusing Lake Lucerne

Lausanne

Lake Geneva Region

Lovingly called "Little San Francisco" for its hills, climate, and nearby wine region, Lausanne is a university city with ancient Roman Empire roots that resides along the largest lake in Western Europe. Here you will find a Mediterranean take on the Swiss quality of life in the westernmost corner of the country.

RELAXATION

Indulge in cheese fondue or a gourmet dinner in a private hot air balloon, discovering the region from the air with the majestic Alps as background.

EXPLORATION

Take time to visit two icons in the region: Château de Chillon and Chaplin’s World by Grévin. The former is an island castle located on Lake Geneva that dates from the Bronze Age and was used as an arsenal, prison, and temporary residence of

the House of Savoy. The latter is a museum dedicated entirely to the legendary life and work of Charlie Chaplin that resides in the famous house where the artist lived the last 25 years of his life.

EDUCATION

Enjoy an authentic cheese-making demonstration and tasting at a small alpine dairy outside town. Here, farmers produce cheese over a wood fire, with milk from local cows that graze on grass and wildflowers surrounding the Col de Jaman pass, once an important cheese trail in the 17th and 18th centuries.

ADVENTURE

Brave the Glacier 3000, the highest walk in the world and home to the world's first suspension bridge that spans the top of two mountain peaks. It also features the highest alpine roller coaster in all of Europe.

OUR FAVORITE HOTEL Beau-Rivage Palace

Enviably situated near the center of Lausanne in the Ouchy district, Beau-Rivage Palace boasts a winter garden, splendid terrace, and traditional aesthetic designed by Pierre-Yves Rochon.

Swiss cows dot the countryside.

Beau-Rivage Palace

Zermatt

Located in Switzerland’s southwest corner, Zermatt lies at the foot of the one of the world’s most famous mountains — the Matterhorn. Car-free, full of character, and an adventurer’s playground, this mountain resort town offers endless possibilies for play.

RELAXATION

Dine at Zum See. Housed in a three-story wooden house dating back to the 16th century, Zum See is one of the best mountain restaurants out there. The snug dining room with low ceilings features a display of fruit tarts and rare local wines, while the outside stone patio sprawls into a tiered plaza amid the barns. And the food? Simple perfection with local ingredients.

EXPLORATION

Climb the Klein Matterhorn in the highest lift in Europe. Once on the top, the views stretch from France to Italy and back to Switzerland, with the imposing Matterhorn at eye level. The glacier connecting the Klein Matterhorn and the Breithorn also accommodates a Glacier Palace, where you can safely explore the inside of a glacier, 50 feet under the surface.

EDUCATION

Hike through the traditional farming hamlets of Zermatt. Sip on coffee at a mountain hotel, walk past grazing blacknose-sheep through the Alp Hubel, obtain the best views of the Matterhorn from the Hubelwäng, descend to Zmutt, the earliest settled village in the Mattertal, and learn about the Maiensäss farming traditions in Blatten.

ADVENTURE

Take to the air on a fun paragliding excursion. Travel by funicular and the Rothorn cable car to the launch site. Then your paragliding pilot will equip you with all the skills you need to take off and soar above the mountains, landing safely back in Zermatt.

OUR

FAVORITE HOTEL

Mount Cervin Palace

Located on the Bahnhofstrasse, the “MCP” has been entertaining visitors for more than 150 years. Families will especially love the many swimming pool options, including the children's pool with water slide.

DID YOU KNOW?

Several airlines, including Swiss International Air Lines, offer direct flights to either Geneva or Zurich. Flight time from the East Coast to Switzerland is generally around 7 hours and 30 minutes.

Mount Cervin Palace

Photos courtesy of Switzerland Tourism

Blacknose-sheep in Zermatt.

The majestic Matterhorn in the background of picturesque Zermatt.

Andermatt

Andermatt stands at a crucial crossroads in the heart of Switzerland and Europe, where the north-south route over the Gotthard massif meets the east-west route through the mountains. For centuries it has served as a watering hole for merchants, travelers, and soldiers. And today seems to be no different. The only difference? Travelers now come to the southcentral hub to relax and enjoy the splendid scenery and top-notch facilities.

RELAXATION

Escape to the spa at The Chedi Andermatt. The indulgent bathing and sauna area is open to both guests and visitors alike and allows comfort seekers to swim in the private pools and read in the cozy loungers with the view of the Swiss Alps always in sight.

EXPLORATION

Go goat trekking through the countryside around Andermatt. Goats are trustworthy and affectionate animal companions and love being on the move — they even enjoy carrying your bags! Follow rivers and streams through the valleys and stop for an inviting picnic along the way.

EDUCATION

Stop for a Swiss farm experience in the canton of Uri. Meet the resident cows and talk to the local farmers about their life and work in the mountains. Perhaps even make your own cheese with them, just as the alpine dairymen did hundreds of years ago.

ADVENTURE

Undertake a family adventure along the Diavolo Via Ferrata. Unlike climbing, a via ferrata — a mountain route equipped with fixed cables and ladders — requires less technical skills and can be adapted for all ages and abilities. With an expert mountaineering guide at your side, this exciting “Iron Way” offers the thrill of traversing cliffs and mountains without threat or fear.

OUR FAVORITE HOTEL

The Chedi, Andermatt

Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, The Chedi Andermatt combines both luxury and Alpine charm, setting the stage for an unforgettable mountain retreat.

A father and daughter enjoy the view on a via ferrata.

The Chedi, Andermatt

Photos courtesy of Switzerland Tourism | The Chedi Andermatt

Elevated Family Vacations in Switzerland

Switzerland is a haven for family vacations , offering a variety of activities to delight every guest. From picturesque villages like Zermatt to vibrant cities like Zurich, there's something for everyone. Families can embark on thrilling adventures like skiing or hiking in the Swiss Alps, exploring interactive museums in our boutique towns, or cruising on lakes with cryistal clear waters. Attractions such as the Swiss National Park and the Swiss Transport Museum ensure educational fun for all generations. Plus, Swiss efficiency means hasslefree travel, with great hospitality and reliable public transportation.

Whether bonding over chocolate, wine, and cheese tastings, or marveling at the country's impressive natural wonders, Switzerland promises authentic memories for families to treasure.

Contact Ker & Downey or your travel specialist to include Switzerland in your next custom journey.

+1 800-423-4236

| KERDOWNEY.COM

SOUTH PACIFIC

NEW ZEALAND

Take a privately guided walking tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, ending with a refreshing drink at The Green Dragon Inn.

AUSTRALIA

Soar above the iconic landscape of Yarra Valley in a hot air balloon.

FRENCH POLYNESIA

Attend a traditional dance performance to learn about the rich cultural heritage of French Polynesia.

FIJI

Charter a private vessel to island-hop around Fiji, and keep everyone happy with water sports, fishing, and stress-free personalized service.

AUSTRALIA

Snorkel pristine reef sites along the Great Barrier Reef.

Photos courtesy of Hobbiton Movei Set | Tahiti Tourisme_Grégoire Le Bacon | Tourism Australia and Yarra Ranges Tourism | Laucala Resort

Two boys paddleboard the turquoise lagoon at The Brando Resort.

FRENCH POLYNESIA: WHERE THE SKY MEETS THE SEA

Channel your inner Moana and create family memories amid the welcoming islands of the South Pacific.

BY VANESSA NIVEN

French Polynesia is a tropical paradise scattered across the vast expanse of the South Pacific and is synonymous with dreamy oceanscapes, turquoise waters, and crystal-clear lagoons. But while stunning destination weddings and exquisite honeymoon escapes may come to mind first for potential visitors, it must be said that French Polynesia also holds great appeal for families seeking an unforgettable and secluded holiday that the whole family can truly enjoy.

THE WINDWARD ISLANDS

Tahiti and Its Neighbors

The islands of French Polynesia are divided into five groups, perhaps the most famous of which is the Society Islands, home to Tahiti and Bora Bora. The Society Islands are further subdivided into two groups the Windward and Leeward Islands. Tahiti, in the Windward Islands, serves as the gateway to many adventures, with the capital of Papeete and Faa’a International Airport both found here.

Where to Stay

THE WINDWARD ISLANDS

The Brando Resort

In the heart of the Windward Islands lies Tetiaroa Atoll, home to The Brando Resort, a stunning luxury lifestyle destination offering all-inclusive experiences for discerning travelers. This exclusive establishment offers a blissful experience, where opulence meets environmental preservation. The resort takes its name from Hollywood icon Marlon Brando, who discovered this magical place while filming Mutiny on the Bounty. In fact, the resort’s development was a family affair, with direct involvement from the Brando Estate and eight of his living children when it first opened its doors in 2014.

Tahiti itself provides a wonderful balance between urban charm and natural beauty. Families can explore the vibrant market of Papeete, where local artisans showcase their crafts, or embark on a cultural journey at the Museum of Tahiti and The Islands, which offers insights into the rich history and traditions of this archipelago. Just opposite the museum is one of the world’s most famous surf spots, Sapinus, where English explorers first spotted Polynesian locals surfing all the way back in 1769. While Sapinus is not suitable for novices just beginning to learn surf techniques, it still serves as an excellent place to watch surfing professionals take on two incredible left reef breaks.

Beyond Tahiti, the Windward Islands also encompass Moorea, a heart-shaped volcanic island celebrated for its lush landscapes, vibrant coral reefs, and opportunities for thrilling water activities. As families embark on island-hopping adventures, Mehetia and Maiao islands add to the allure of the Windward Islands. While largely devoid of vegetation, the tiny gem of Mehetia entices with its rugged volcanic peak and stunning coral reef just below the surface. Lush Maiao and its bright blue lagoon are entirely surrounded by a coral reef, with two inland hypersaline lagoons that appear a stunning hue of green from above. What's more, a 4WD excursion into the interior of one of the many islands or islets allows you to further explore the unique volcanic landscapes and verdant vegetation.

With private villas featuring infinity pools and breathtaking views of the turquoise lagoon, The Brando epitomizes tropical elegance. Guests can relax on white sandy beaches, explore fascinating marine life on guided dives, or rejuvenate at the Varua Te Ora Polynesian Spa. The Brando is an ideal destination for families, providing specially designed activities for children, such as educational nature excursions at the Lagoon School, kid-friendly spa treatments, and Polynesian dance lessons.

Memorable family meals are offered in the refined restaurants, showcasing delicious local and international cuisine, or in several unique private dining locations around the atoll. Entertainment options abound with water sports, kayak excursions, paddle outings, and evening cultural performances. Numerous archaeological sites dot the island and surrounding islets, including an archery platform, marae (sacred place), and a dancing platform, all used by ancient Polynesians in their daily religious and cultural practices.

Two local artists in Papeete.

Photos courtesy of Tahiti Tourisme © Grégoire Le Bacon

| The Brando Resort

Villas at The Brando Resort

A family enjoys the plunge pool at The Brando Resort.

Welcome to The Brando Resort

THE LEEWARD ISLANDS

Bora Bora and Its Neighbors

Meanwhile, the Leeward Islands offer a special blend of adventure and tranquility for families seeking an idyllic escape. While not the largest in the group, Bora Bora — the "Pearl of the Pacific"— is a prime starting point for a tropical family journey. Renowned for its iconic overwater bungalows and stunning coral reefs, Bora Bora captivates visitors with its turquoise lagoon and majestic Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia. Families can engage in a variety of water activities, from chartering a boat to snorkel and swim amid vibrant marine life in the lagoon to embarking on thrilling shark-and ray-feeding excursions.

Referred to as the "Sacred Island," Raiatea boasts historical significance as the cultural and religious center of ancient Polynesia. Families can explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Marae Taputapuatea, a sacred site that offers a glimpse into the political and spiritual history of Polynesia’s earliest people.

The nearby island of Huahine, often considered Tahiti's best-kept secret, is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. With its lush forests — including two botanical gardens — and pristine beaches, Huahine invites families to immerse themselves in the untamed beauty of the South Pacific.

Also nestled within the Leeward Islands, the “Vanilla Island” of Tahaa stands as a hidden gem awaiting discovery by families seeking an intimate escape. Renowned for its vanilla plantations and pearl production, Tahaa captivates with fragrant landscapes and vibrant coral gardens. Engaging in a vanilla-themed workshop allows children to understand the cultivation process and create their own vanilla-infused keepsakes.

French Polynesia beckons families to unlock the secrets of paradise together, weaving a tapestry of experiences that celebrate the beauty of nature, the richness of culture, and the joy of togetherness. In this archipelago of dreams, families can discover a destination where luxury and adventure coalesce, creating a truly magical escape that transcends the ordinary and leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of all who wander its shores.

FAMILIES CAN ENGAGE IN A VARIETY OF WATER ACTIVITIES, FROM CHARTERING A BOAT TO SNORKEL AND SWIM AMID VIBRANT MARINE LIFE IN THE LAGOON TO EMBARKING ON THRILLING SHARKAND RAY-FEEDING EXCURSIONS.

Snorkelers explore the waters of Bora Bora.

Photos courtesy of Tahiti Tourisme © Grégoire Le Bacon

THE ITINERARY

LEEWARD ISLANDS PRIVATE CATAMARAN CRUISE

7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS

Charter the Allegra Lagoon 630 MY, a 64-foot fivecabin catamaran perfect for a multigenerational island-hopping adventure through French Polynesia. Each en suite double cabin provides plenty of room with lots of storage space. A central kitchen, solarium, and lounge round out the interior facilities, while the exterior offers several sunbathing areas and two large trampolines. Also at disposal on board are standup paddle boards, kayaks, floating hammocks, and snorkeling equipment. Three dedicated crew members are on hand to pilot the boat, prepare meals, and cater to guests’ every need.

SUGGESTED JOURNEY AT A GLANCE:

DAY 1: RAIATEA TO TAHAA

DAY 2: TAHAA TO HUAHINE

DAY 3: HUAHINE

DAY 4: HUAHINE TO TAHAA

DAY 5: TAHAA TO BORA BORA

DAY 6-7: BORA BORA LAGOON

Where to Stay

THE LEEWARD ISLANDS

Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts

Located on the private islet of Motu Tautau with stunning views of the lush shores of Tahaa, Le Taha'a by Pearl Resorts is a Relais & Châteaux resort offering an unparalleled experience of indulgence and natural beauty. The overwater bungalows and beachfront suites of Le Taha’a provide breathtaking views of the turquoise lagoon and Bora Bora’s iconic Mount Otemanu in the distance. The resort's commitment to luxury is evident in its Polynesian-inspired architecture, generously sized accommodations, and personalized services. Guests can unwind at Tavai Spa, which offers a range of rejuvenating treatments using local ingredients. For families seeking a luxurious retreat, Le Taha'a provides a haven where parents can relax while children engage in supervised activities with a babysitter.

From water sports and snorkeling adventures to cultural excursions, the resort ensures a seamless blend of affluent luxury and family-friendly experiences. The resort's idyllic setting just off Taha'a provides a gorgeous backdrop for family bonding, whether through beachside picnics, exploring vibrant sea life, or embarking on a sunset cruise. Le Taha'a makes for an enchanting destination for those desiring a refined tropical getaway.

PRIVATE ISLAND RAIATEA Motu Nao Nao

THE SPLURGE!

One of the best private villa options in French Polynesia, Motu Nao Nao is a pristine retreat located on a fully private 75-acre island just off the coast of Raiatea. With its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, this small and intimate resort provides a haven for those seeking an indulgent tropical escape in absolute privacy. The property is limited to three two-person villas making it the ideal spot to spend quality time with the kids and grandkids.

Families are welcomed at Motu Nao Nao with open arms, as the resort seamlessly integrates family-friendly activities into its luxurious offerings. A kids’ club isn’t needed here — a full staff is present 24/7 to cater to the entire family’s individual requests, from special celebrations and private dance performances to wellness activities and spa treatments. Activities on offer are wide-ranging, from a Va’a Holopuni sailing canoe experience to kite surfing, paddleboarding, swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Or let the team surprise the kids with an outdoor movie theater set up on a secluded platform for a screening of Moana. After the screening, the family can gather around the campfire to toast marshmallows and gaze up at the stunningly clear night sky.

Overwater villas at Le Taha'a.

Ker & Downey's Top Itineraries JOURNEYS

A SOUTH AFRICA FAMILY SAFARI

14 DAYS / 13 NIGHTS

This luxury (and malaria-free) South Africa family safari and holiday features something for everyone. Enjoy a safari in the Eastern Cape, whale watching in Gansbaai, and guided wanderings through Cape Town and the Winelands. Extend to Madikwe Game Reserve for even more spectacular wildlife sightings.

SUGGESTED JOURNEY AT A GLANCE:

DAY 1–4: CAPE TOWN | ONE&ONLY CAPE TOWN

DAY 5–7: GROOTBOS PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE | GARDEN LODGE

DAY 8–10: KWANDWE PRIVATE GAME RESERVE | ECCA LODGE

DAY 11: JOHANNESBURG | THE SAXON

DAY 12–14: MADIKWE GAME RESERVE | MOLORI SAFARI LODGE

CROATIA ISLAND HOPPING TOUR

Discover Croatian hidden gems via a weeklong family yacht tour through the Dalmatian islands. From Brač to Mljet, there is simply nothing like exploring Croatia by private yacht with the ones you love.

SUGGESTED JOURNEY AT A GLANCE:

DAY 1-2 BRA Č ISLAND

DAY 3 HVAR

DAY 4 VIS

DAY 5 KOR Č ULA

DAY 6 MLJET

DAY 7-8 DUBROVNIK

ALL

History, charm, and coastal beauty make Croatia a must-visit destination in 2024. In Dubrovnik, centuries-old walls whisper tales of the city’s rich past, where medieval architecture meets the azure Adriatic Sea. Meanwhile, the pristine beaches of the Dalmatian Coast and the picturesque waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park promise unforgettable adventures.

BOLIVIA & PERU

14 DAYS / 13 NIGHTS

The ancient cultures and unbelievable landscapes of Peru and Bolivia beckon on this two-week, fun-filled adventure. From their capital cities of Lima and La Paz to their shared culture along Lake Titicaca, these neighboring countries offer a wealth of wonders, waiting to be explored. Highlights include a chocolate workshop in Lima, a day trip to Machu Picchu, a cable car ride in La Paz, and more.

SUGGESTED JOURNEY AT A GLANCE:

DAY 1-2: LIMA, PERU

DAY 3-4: THE SACRED VALLEY

DAY 5: CUSCO

DAY 6-7: LAKE TITICACA

DAY 8-9: LA PAZ, BOLIVIA

DAY 10: SUCRE

DAY 11-12: UYUNI

DAY 13-14: LA PAZ

This family-friendly Ireland luxury vacation offers a little bit of everything, from golf greens to stately manors. Enjoy tee times at some of the best courses in the country alongside unique experiences for both young and old alike. Perfectly balanced, fun for all ages, and exclusive at every turn — this is your quintessential Irish holiday by Ker & Downey.

SUGGESTED JOURNEY AT A GLANCE:

DAY 1–3: DUBLIN | THE MERRION

DAY 4–7: CO. LIMERICK | ADARE MANOR

SHOT THE

One picture, one moment, one memory captured by photographer Nick Dunn.

Australia beckons as an enchanting destination for families seeking a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. The continent's vast and diverse landscapes provide a playground for all ages, from the cosmopolitan allure of Sydney to natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef and the rugged Outback. Families can embark on thrilling wildlife experiences, exploring unique ecosystems and encountering iconic species such as kangaroos, koalas, and colorful marine life.

Beyond its natural wonders, Australia boasts familyfriendly attractions, including world-class museums, interactive exhibits, and vibrant cultural festivals, ensuring a well-rounded experience that captivates all ages.

Additionally, Australia's commitment to safety and cleanliness, along with its warm and welcoming hospitality, makes it an ideal destination for family travel. The country's well-developed infrastructure, efficient transportation systems, and numerous accommodation options cater to the diverse needs of families and promise a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Whether you’re exploring the wonders of the Great Ocean Road, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Whitsundays, or simply relaxing on its sun-kissed beaches, Australia offers a tapestry of experiences that make it an irresistible destination for families seeking to create lasting memories together.

Nick Dunn traveled with his family around Australia in 2020. Pictured here are his kids running on the beach with kangaroos in Lucky Bay, Western Australia.

See more of his work on Instagram @wanderlustralia

Photo by Nick Dunn on Unsplash

THE PROBLEM

MALARIA KILLS MORE THAN ONE MILLION PEOPLE EACH YEAR, WITH 90 % OF FATALITIES OCCURRING IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA. 75 % OF THESE DEATHS OCCUR IN CHILDREN UNDER FIVE .

OUR GOAL

TO PROVIDE 18,000 NETS TO COMMUNITIES TO HELP REDUCE THE RISK OF LIFE-THREATENING DISEASES. ONE NET CAN PROTECT FOUR CHILDREN FOR UP TO THREE YEARS.

DONATE

FOR EVERY NET PURCHASED, KER & DOWNEY WILL DONATE A NET. DONATE SECURELY ON OUR WEBSITE AT KERDOWNEY.COM/ GIVING-BACK/KER-DOWNEY-FOR-AFRICA/

Explore the World in a New Way

Forget group tours, long lines, or packaged experiences; with Ker & Downey, 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.

AndBeyond Punakha River Lodge in Bhutan