Destination: Spring Your Ultimate Travel Guide to the Season

BY NORAH BRADFORD

Paris, France

Discover the grand City of Lights this springtime. Paris is one of the most stunning capital cities where everything sparkles with glory. The major European hub is the global center for art, fashion and food. Divine days can be spent walking the boulevards and filling every waking moment with a visit to a museum such as the Louvre, shopping on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées or even just taking in the breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower. Say, oui to this trip and feel like you are living in a famous painting in the Musée d’Orsay.

Hotels here are nothing short of extraordinary in Paris. Sophisticated hospitality is found at such properties as the Ritz Paris. This five-star hotel is spectacular from start to finish. Renowned luxury is the vibe with posh quarters and upscale dining, plus one of the chicest spas in all the city. The iconic hotel often hosts celebrity clientele who constantly praise the staff as equally as the accommodations.

For further information, please visit ritzparis.com.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Just further north in Europe is one of the most captivating landscapes in the world. Scotland is a place that you must see with your own eyes to understand how Mother Nature is very much an artist. Lush greenery is showcased throughout the countryside. Mountain views and panoramic terrain are stunning to see and lay just outside of the busiest city hubs. You are never far away from the land in this pleasant vacation setting. Full of rich history and people who are the friendliest around, Scotland welcomes visitors with open arms.

Visit the historical Edinburgh Castle or catch a bagpipe procession through a town square during a festival. For a unique boutique experience stay at The Crusoe - a 19th century hotel in the picturesque East Neuk village of Lower Largo in Fife – a forty-five-minute drive north of Edinburgh, famous for being the birthplace of Alexander Selkirk, the “real” Robinson Crusoe. Relax on the beach, cozy up in the bar or simply take a stroll along the Fife coastal path, Lower Largo has something for everyone. The Crusoe offers 6 stunning bedrooms with views directly over Largo Bay and one fabulous suite with a balcony over the pier.

For more details, please visit thecrusoe.com.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Fascinating days are to be had across the world when you head to Vancouver. The thriving west coast seaport in British Columbia bustles with the energy that makes Canada so unique to the traveler. The diverse city has much to offer and serves as a popular filming location for good reason. It is an admirable city with mild weather and scenic views. To look at it in person instantly brings joy to the heart. To walk it or drive around in it is even more enlightening.

Surrounded by mountains and bountiful blue skies, the city is a well-known center for art, theater and music. Vancouver Art Gallery is known for its works by regional artists, while the Museum of Anthropology houses preeminent First Nations collections. The famously friendly people all around also make the trip truly worthwhile. When visiting, OPUS Hotel Vancouver is a splendid selection. In the heart of Vancouver, it is just a five-minute drive from Rogers Arena and mere eight minutes from Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal. This 4-star hotel is also just a few miles from Vancouver Waterfront and Vancouver Convention Centre.

For further information, please visit opushotel.com.

Anguilla, Caribbean

If the beach is calling you for the best vacation this season, look no further than Anguilla. The British Overseas Territory in the Eastern Caribbean is a small main island and several offshore islets. The tropical delights include long sandy stretches like Rendezvous Bay, overlooking neighboring Saint Martin Island. There are even secluded coves you can only reach by boat, such as at Little Bay. Turquoise water surrounds you as you sit on white sand where you can dip your toes in warm water. Glistening arcs of powder soft sand frame azure seas and are the hallmarks of the Anguillan vacation experience.

Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel offers a private beach in Maundays Bay. Pristine shores surround the property which is a scene of an enticing haven where you can unwind. There are plush beds after a day spent on the water or relax with a cocktail on your private terrace in your enchanting room. The Deluxe Beachfront King Room is the most secluded with an offering of an expansive terrace with ocean views. Additionally, some of the finest restaurants in Anguilla can be found at Cap Juluca. Take a seat beside dazzling white sand under an open sky then slowly sink into a menu filled with vibrant island flavors created from herbs and spices from their own garden.

For more details, please visit belmond.com.

Orlando, Florida

Then, when in America the thing that is a must to do this spring is the Disney100 Celebration at Disney World. Described as the event of lifetime, fans are set for exciting moments that will create forever memories. Go on an epic adventure through 100 years of Walt Disney in thrilling moments at the park or spectacular stays at luxurious nearby properties.

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is simply the perfect family getaway. Nestled in a secluded, residential setting within 26 sprawling acres, this AAA Five Diamond Resort sits lakeside and is dotted with gardens and pools. Experience a complimentary kids club, adult-only swimming area and even a five-acre water park for your whole party to enjoy. You can also tee off at the exclusive Four Seasons Golf and Sports Club Orlando or just treat yourself to a soothing, post-park massage at The Spa. A special treat is the nightly Walt Disney World fireworks viewpoint that can be seen over dinner at the Michelin-starred rooftop steakhouse Capa.

For further information, please visit fourseasons.com/Orlando.

The premiere spring vacation is yours to have no matter your destination this season.

Meet the ultimate luxury yacht charter in Southeast Asia, pioneering experiential travel across international waters, and showcasing its most vibrant countries with a cast of spectacular yachts, Rebel and Rascal.

Indonesia, Malaysia & Thailand

Promising unadulterated, adventure-fueled fun, Rascal Voyages is one of Southeast Asia’s finest yacht charters, offering travelers with a thirst for exploration endless opportunities to unlock the otherwise inaccessible beauty of Indonesia and beyond – with each journey authentically tapping into the local culture and cuisine.

Brand new for 2023, Rascal Voyages unveils Rebel – a traditional handmade phinisi yacht that accommodates up to 10 guests across five suites and four spacious common areas, including even a fine wine cellar and outdoor cinema under the stars. Committed to uncovering destinations with soul –with a “floating villa” concept rather than that of a traditional yacht – the highly trained, local expert Rascal Voyages team crafts thoughtful bespoke itineraries with both cabin and private voyages yearround.

Currently chartering exclusively through Indonesia, Rascal Voyages imminently plans to expand with cross-border itineraries through Malaysia and Thailand.

Set The Scene

Rascal Voyages offers off-the-grid expeditions aboard two custom-designed yachts: flagship, Rascal and brand-new sister, Rebel, throughout Indonesia by sea and on land. Marrying hand-crafted contemporary design, exceptional service and passionate local experts and guides on board, Rascal Voyages delivers once-in-a-lifetime itineraries of discovery and exploration across Southeast Asia year-round. Signature Indonesian journeys navigate Komodo and Raja Ampat all year, and discover the Spice Islands, Ring of Fire and Rote seasonally. Also new for 2023, Rascal Voyages will venture into Thailand’s Tarutao National Park and Langkawi, Malaysia, for the first time.

While no two voyages will ever be the same, guests can expect a truly all-encompassing, curated Southeast Asian adventure that incorporates local food, nature, wellness, culture and community. Rascal Voyages ensures travelers are able to get up close and personal with the world’s most diverse marine life, trek to panoramic viewpoints, connect with Indigenous tribal leaders and learn from commu- nities, uncover untapped beaches – complete with Rascal Voyages’ own pop-up beach clubs – marvel at many diverse bird species, try their hand at every watersport and even create homemade face masks using natural mud from rich mineral waters in the Raja Ampat archipelago. Rascal Voyages are available to charter exclusively for groups or families, or as single/double-occupancy cabins with set departure dates for couples or solo travelers looking to meet like-minded others.

The Cast of Rascals – Rascal & Rebel

Just a short tender ride from the shoreline of one of Indonesia’s 18,000 islands awaits the flagship, Rascal: a handcrafted phinisi yacht measuring 30 meters. Built in Sulawesi, Indonesia from traditional craftsmanship to create a “floating villa” concept with interiors evoking the laid-back vibe reminiscent of a Hamptons beach house, Rascal is the base for a remote adventure with no compromise on luxury. Sleeping up to 10 guests, the yacht features five stylish and spacious suites all uniquely positioned above deck to create a light-drenched sanctuary. At 266 feet squared, the Master Cabin comprises an en-suite bathroom, large desk, king-sized bed and an additional daybed for afternoon siestas after a day exploring the wondrous surroundings. Stateof-the-art features include a flat screen TV, fully stocked minibar and wraparound windows. Four further cabins are generous spaces complete with en-suite bathrooms and elegant wooden storage.

There are four common areas with space for groups to dine, connect and celebrate, as well as numerous private corners for those seeking respite. At the heart of the yacht is the main deck area; an al-fresco dining space where guests enjoy their daily meals freshly prepared by Rascal’s onboard chef and, as always, curated to individual preferences. There is also a further indoor saloon for pre-dinner entertaining and cocktails. The foredeck is lined with comfortable New England-style day beds and stylish rattan lounge chairs, while the flat rooftop deck offers glorious 360-degree views of surrounding islands and makes for the ideal location for meditation, yoga and sunbathing. This is also the greatest vantage point onboard for guests to take in magnificent sunrises, sunsets and magical starry nights.

Much like its sister, Rebel – which debuted this year

– also accommodates 10 guests across five spacious cabins. Inspired by the verdant sceneries and landscapes explored on a voyage, the interior features hand-woven fabrics and carvings that nod to tribal influences. Perhaps the most impressive of all, however, is the outdoor cinema under the stars; a beautiful set-up that can be paired with exceptional cuisine and fine wine from Rebel’s very own crafted wine cellar, stocking a wide selection of Old and New World wines and Champagnes.

Onboard both yachts, thrill-seekers will enjoy access to full scuba diving and snorkeling equipment and an in-house PADI dive instructor, four sea kayaks, three stand up paddleboards, wakeboards and more, and to wind down, one can pass the time perusing the movie library, playing board and card games, sipping cocktails and lounging on the rooftop sunbeds.

Destinations

Rich in personality, culture and color, Indonesia is one of the most enchanting destinations in Southeast Asia that has recently reopened to international tourism after two and a half years. Visitors can dive to challenging depths to swim alongside rare, exotic sea life, surf some of the best breaks in the world, hike to soaring mountain peaks and immerse themselves in authentic village traditions, all within one magnificent country. Home to over 18,000 islands, only 8,000 of which are inhabited, Indonesia is best explored by water, though Rascal Voyages ensures to surprise and delight its guests with land-based pop-ups at unexpected turns throughout a voyage. Sailing enables travelers to see the archipelago in its truest form, without another tourist in sight, with all cabins above sea level. Rascal Voyages currently charters exclusively through Indonesia, with imminent plans to expand itineraries to Malaysia and Thailand.

For more information, please visit rascalvoyages.com.

There is so little time to do so many wonderful things this year. Across the world the most high-end events are getting ready to take place. So, book your airline ticket, pack your bags and head out for the adventure of a lifetime.

Live like a… Movie Star

One starry destination to begin your travel is Los Angeles, home of the Oscars. The 95th annual Academy Awards will be held on Sunday, March 12, 2023, at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood.

While most in the world will only be able to watch the televised broadcast, you can head to Tinseltown. Sing your way through La-La Land when you visit places and landmarks that have been showcased throughout film history. As you wander the streets of Hollywood you can just as easily score a hot last-minute reservation at a culinary haven as you can have a sighting of a movie star walking by on Rodeo Drive. This is the land of cinema magic and blissful vacations.

The Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills is an iconic property worthy of the weekend. The hotel provides the California al fresco lifestyle at its best

BY NORAH BRADFORD

with views of the Hollywood Hills and Downtown LA from every guest room balcony. The property boasts spacious suites, lush gardens, florals by Jeff Leatham, a floor dedicated to wellness with a private fitness suite, well office, spa and spacious pool deck with the outdoor Cabana restaurant.

For more information, visit fourseasons.com/losangeles.

Live like a… Art Collector

Frieze New York will take place shortly after from May 17 to May 21 at The Shed in Manhattan. The leading international art fair brings together the world’s leading galleries to showcase ambitious solo, group and themed presentations by pioneering artists. Featuring over 65 major galleries with a strong representation from New York, “The Frame” section will also return, supporting galleries operating 10 years and under to present solo presentations by today’s most significant artists.

Stay in Bryant Park nearby at the Grayson Hotel. They provide service with a soul and engage in genuine interactions that are refreshing to the well-seasoned traveler. Stylish guest rooms leave no detail spared in striking spaces full of bright energy.

For more information, visit graysonhotel.com.

Live like a… Jetsetter a must place to stay to complete your perfect holiday. The quintessential Riviera spot has 111 gorgeous guest roomsdesigned with French panache. Each boasts gorgeous views such as the magical sea below are gardens. Discover the captivating beauty of the Côte d’Azur here and during this special time in France.

After that, hop over to Europe for the coveted Cannes Film Festival. Taking place May 16 to May 23, the annual beloved event is considered by many to be the start of Awards Season. The 76th edition of the festival is set to be a grand affair. From the world’s longest red carpet to the sparkling appearances of celebrities all over the fair seaside town, there is not a moment of boredom. This event might honor filmmakers, but it also celebrates the astounding beauty and history of an industry that the entire world is attracted to every day of the year.

To visit Cannes means you experience the wonder of a resort town on the French Riviera that is famed for its Boulevard de la Croisette, which delicately curves along the coast and is lined with sandy beaches, upmarket boutiques and palatial hotels. The standout showcase, of course, is the home to the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès complete with red carpet and Allée des Étoiles that signifies the importance of the film festival in town.

For more information, visit oetkercollection.com.

Live like a… Royal

While in Europe, stick around for the Royal Ascot, which runs June 20 to June 24. Revered across the globe, the event attracts racing’s finest horses and is purely synonymous with sartorial elegance. From exquisite fashion and magnificent millinery creations, the Royal Ascot is a must to do for the person looking to embrace the luxurious lifestyle. One of Britain’s most well-known racecourses, Ascot was always loyally attended by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, who had an interest in horses since childhood.

From the arrival of the Royal Procession to the communal singing around Ascot’s Bandstand, these five days are incredible. A perfect stay can be found close by at Corinthia London. Here you experience the same level of social standards and elegance of the race. Steps away from The Thames, Trafalgar Square and Buckingham Palace lies this very special address. Book the Royal Penthouse and experience a roof terrace with panoramic views of the city

For more information, visit corinthia.com/london.

Live like a… Celebrity Chef

If in America in the summer, the Aspen Food & Wine Classic is a perfect foodie event. Culinary lovers from June 16 to June 18 can enjoy a spectacular weekend that will celebrate 40 years of icons and innovators with a look back at the standout talent, trends and recipes that have made the event a must-visit experience for four decades. Cooking demonstrations, wine and spirit tastings, and panel discussions are all led by world-class chefs and beverage experts.

Hotel Jerome is a perfect place to stay on this trip. Part of the famed Auberge Resorts Collection, the property has been the social hub of Aspen since its opening in 1889 at the height of the town’s silver boom. World-class powder, shopping and nightlife come together for the best ski and mountain scene in the Rockies just steps outside this landmark hotel.

For more information, visit aubergeresorts.com/hoteljerome.

Live like a… Movie Producer

Lastly, be sure to save a spot on your list for the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), which takes place September 7 to September 17. The 48th edition of TIFF will honor international and Canadian cinema as well as host special events featuring some of the biggest names in film. There will also be a chance to explore TIFF’s Industry Conference, which offers diverse and innovative perspectives on the art and business of film.

Stay at the Shangri-La Toronto for a perfect visit. Luxurious suites are as exquisite as the extensive dining choices and services. The unforgettable experience will have you wishing next year’s adventure was already here.

For more information, visit shangri-la.com/toronto.

Here’s to making the most of a wonderful year ahead.