This tour operator is offering a series of self-guided cycling trips through Italy

February 28, 2025 No Comments

Building on last year’s successful launch of self-guided cycling tours in Italy, ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours, a trailblazer in cycling vacations and leader in active travel, is introducing three new extended itineraries for 2025, offering travellers a deeper dive into the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Italy’s la dolce vita.

These longer trips align with the growing trend of slow travel, combining multiple weeklong routes to create seamless adventures that prioritize immersive and sustainable experiences.

“We think that with the expense and time it takes to travel these days, a longer bike tour just makes sense,” said Maria Elena Price, co-owner of ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours. “Not to mention, spending more time in a place – getting to know it in the more immersive and intimate manner that exploring by bike provides – is so much more enriching, rewarding, and overall, a more sustainable way to travel.”

Designed for travellers who love the freedom of choosing their own pace while enjoying the peace-of-mind that comes with knowing key details such as accommodations and route mapping are taken care of, these new adventures offer deep dives into three famed regions: The Dolomites, Emilia-Romagna, and Tuscany.

For details on all ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours’ guided and self-guided cycling adventures in Europe, the Caribbean, and South America, visit ExperiencePlus.com.

Tauck is launching two new river boats in France for 2026

October 25, 2024 No Comments

Tauck has announced that two new ships will be joining the company’s fleet of award-winning riverboats in 2026.

The two ships, which have not yet been named, will launch in spring 2026 following construction next year in Serbia and The Netherlands.

The two newbuilds include a 135-meter vessel that will sail on Tauck itineraries along the Rhone. Accommodating a maximum of just 130 guests in sixty-eight cabins, the 135-meter ship will boast twenty-two spacious 300-sq. ft. suites on its upper (Diamond) deck, thirty-four roomy 225-sq. ft. cabins primarily on the middle (Ruby) deck, and twelve 180-sq. ft. Category 1 cabins on the lower (Emerald) deck.

A slightly smaller (125-meter) sister ship will host up to 124 guests along the River Seine, with accommodations including twenty 300-sq. ft. suites on its Diamond Deck, thirty 225-sq. ft. cabins (mainly on the Ruby Deck), and twelve 180-sq. ft. Category 1 cabins on the Emerald Deck. At 180-sq. ft., the Category 1 cabins on both newbuilds will be 20% larger than the Category 1 cabins found on Tauck’s other riverboats.

In keeping with Tauck’s tradition of welcoming solo travelers, all Category 1 cabins on the new ships will have the single supplement waived on every sailing.

In addition, Tauck opened its 2026 river cruises for preliminary bookings earlier this month and guests are now able to reserve space on the 2026 itinerary and departure date of their choosing.

All guests who book 2026 cruises now will have the opportunity to cancel their bookings, and receive a full refund of their deposits, when pricing and final itinerary details are announced in early 2025.

For more information, visit www.tauck.ca.

Four Seasons and Lucid team up for sustainable driving experiences

October 16, 2024 No Comments

Global luxury hospitality leader Four Seasons and Lucid Group, Inc., maker of the world’s most advanced electric vehicles, announce a new partnership grounded in a shared vision of an exceptional, sustainable lifestyle.

The collaboration underscores both companies’ commitment to environmental stewardship and responds to a growing guest desire for added flexibility and unique, eco-friendly experiences during their stay.

Program elements include the following offerings at participating Four Seasons properties:

Complimentary driving experience

Based on availability and bookable at no cost both on-site and online, guests can reserve a Lucid vehicle for their own use. Concierge teams will also provide a suggested route map highlighting the best of the surrounding locales, allowing guests the flexibility and freedom to explore a destination at their leisure.

Chauffeured Lucid house car

Four Seasons guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the comforts of a chauffeured Lucid house car in addition to those available for guests to drive themselves.

Electric charging stations

Lucid is also providing electric vehicle chargers, as necessary. Lucid chargers are compatible with other electric vehicle types, allowing both hotel guests and community members to conveniently charge their own vehicles.

Program rollout is anticipated to begin this Fall at participating Four Seasons hotels and resorts in the US, with additional properties in North America, Europe and the Middle East to be added to the program in the months following. 

For more information, visit www.fourseasons.com.

All-day pampering awaits at the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa

October 14, 2024 No Comments

Suspended on limestone cliffs above the rushing rapids of the gorge below, the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa provides an indulging, five-star retreat in the heart of nature.

Walking through the streets of Elora, you’d be forgiven for thinking you might be anywhere else but a small, Ontario town. All along Metcalfe and surrounding streets, stores housed in 19th century limestone sell everything from handmade silk lampshades spun in art deco designs, to locally-made home furnishings and used books.

Like any good small town, there are also a handful of comfortable cafes and ice cream shops selling those nostalgic Moosetracks and Bubblegum scoops.

But the lifeblood of the town is the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa, a five-star, luxury boutique property with a fine-dining restaurant and full-service spa that’s perched above the rushing waters of the Elora Gorge.

About the Elora Mill

Opened in 2018 under the Pearle Hospitality Group, the Elora Mill has a long and colourful history that dates back nearly 200 years, to 1832 when William Gilkison, a Scottish naval captain, purchased 14,000 acres of land and settled the town on the banks of the Grand River. In 1833, Gilkison constructed a sawmill which served the town until the early 1900s.

Over the years, the property also had stints as a distillery (the site of the hotel’s present-day kitchen), as well as a flour mill that ceased operations in 1974, when it was converted to the Elora Mill Inn. Following the old inn’s closure in 2010, a $27 million renovation project saw the property reopen eight years later in June 2018 as the four-storey Elora Mill Hotel & Spa, turning the tiny town of Elora into a full-fledged luxury destination flanked year round by guests from all over the world.

Farm-to-table dining

On the first floor of the hotel, you’ll find the two-storey restaurant which features floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the rapids. Using a farm-to-table dining approach that extends to all menus, highlights include the lobster and smoked halibut agnolotti with seasonal hand-picked chanterelles and the field greens salad with pan roasted chicken, made using locally-sourced produce from the Pearle Farm.

Down below, guests can visit the restaurant’s recently opened wine cellar, which is home to more than 4,000 bottles. The Elora Mill’s team of friendly in-house sommeliers can also provide expert pairing advice on any dish.

Rooms with a view

Working with the original footprint of the mill, luxury interior designer Lori Morris was picked to decorate all 30 rooms in three styles—rustic, modern and French. There are eight room categories to choose from, with no two designed identically. Soft neutrals blend harmoniously with the natural limestone walls and exposed wooden beams. Lavish touches create an atmosphere so indulging, you find yourself longing for just one more day on a weekend getaway. 

Throw open the balcony doors of the Terrace Suite and gaze at the rushing rapids of the Elora Gorge below. Additional in-room highlights include a king-sized bed, a seasonal indoor wood burning fireplace perfect for autumn nights, and a Nespresso coffee machine. At the end of the evening, retreat to your terrace and lounge by the outdoor fire with a glass of wine, or one of the afte rdinner cocktails that can be ordered to your room—we recommend the Campfire Nightcap, made with a smoky Sombra mezcal, sweet Amaro Montenegro, Crème de Cacao, cold brew espresso and agave. Or, slip off your oversized plush robe and into the soaker tub.

Elements of relaxation continue throughout the hotel, starting on the first floor at the spa, where cliffside views immediately transport you away from the stresses of daily life. Recently, Elora Mill introduced a series of day packages which include the Daybreak ($350 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.), with a complimentary breakfast; the Midday ($425 from 12 to 5 p.m.) which includes lunch, and Seize the Day ($750 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.), which is perfect for those looking for a full day of pampering.

Along with a signature body treatment, highlights of all three packages include use of the Nordic dry sauna, eucalyptus steam room, hot tub, and heated rooftop pool, which stays open year round. Cocktails, wine by the glass and small bites, like warm marinated olives, can be enjoyed pool side or in the relaxation lounge.

For rates and availability, visit eloramill.ca.

 

This article first appeared in the Fall 2024 issue of OFFSHORE travel Magazine. Click here to subscribe to your free copy.

A glamping retreat with a country store just opened in Texas

March 27, 2024 No Comments

Outdoorsy Hill Country is a new luxury glamping retreat set in Hill Country, Texas.

Surrounded by rolling hills, the retreat, set on 32 acres, offers guests access to 22 all-season canvas glamping tents, a cafe and bar, a country store, an events lodge and a network of trails through nearby Fredericksburg. 

A large spring-fed watering hole is a centerpiece of the property, and offers a perfect spot for summer paddleboarding and wildlife spotting. Across the property, live oaks provide shade for live music performances and an outdoor bar.

Outdoorsy Hill Country combines state-of-the-art safari tents with locally sourced materials such as Texas limestone, creating a natural connection between the structures and the land. Outdoor amenities for each tent include wrap-around panoramic decks, and fire pits providing opportunities for guests to gather and relax for evening drinks and outdoor dining.

 

Spacious glamping tents

Spacious glamping tents, sleeping two or four, are sighted on the property to maximize seclusion, and blend seamlessly into the natural landscape. The tents feature a king-size bed, twin and trundle beds with linens, plush robes, and modern furnishings.

The retreat’s tents are also climate-controlled to ensure a comfortable stay year-round. Private ensuite bathrooms feature rain showers and premium bath products from San Saba Soap Company. A fully equipped kitchenette and stocked mini-bar give guests the chance to grill outdoors or mix a cocktail featuring local Garrison Brothers bourbon.

 

The Cafe will offer guests a seasonal menu of light eats featuring local produce served on its deck with panoramic views of the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park. Guests can start the day at the cafe by enjoying fresh Merit coffee, juices, smoothies, and grab-and-go breakfast options. The day winds down with craft cocktails and a curated selection of local wines from Crown Hill Winery and Pedernales Cellars and cold beers from Real Ale Brewing.

A country store will ensure guests have all the provisions guests need for their stay as well as hosting pop-up retail experiences from local brands.

Outdoorsy Hill Country is now accepting reservations. 

For more information, visit outdoorsy.com/hillcountry. 

Here’s what it’s like diving with whale sharks in La Paz, Mexico

March 22, 2024 No Comments

As the boat skimmed across the water, a massive shadow rose from the depths below.

“Shark! Shark!” Cristian yelled, and cut the engine.

Moments later, an ominous, black dorsal fin sliced through the surface. Seated on the edge of the boat, I fumbled for my mouthpiece and adjusted my snorkel mask. Then, taking a final shaky breath, I jumped.

At first, I saw nothing. On an overcast day in La Paz, Mexico, even at the surface the water was as cloudy as the sky above. The murkiness limited my visibility to a mere two feet. 

But suddenly, the light shifted. And then I saw it.

Face to fin with the world's biggest fish

Like something out of a horror flick, in a matter of seconds, I was face to face with the largest fish in the world. Despite my love of the ocean, I have an irrevocable fear of deep water and everything that lurks below.

Growing up and spending my summers in Muskoka, even locking eyes with a large-mouthed bass or a Northern pike was enough to send me flailing wildly back to shore. For that reason alone, I’d never scuba dived or snorkelled. And on rare occasions when I ventured past my hips for a swim, I’d pictured this moment one thousand times; a lone, vicious shark appearing from the deep and ripping me to bloody shreds.

Underwater, time seemed to slow down while my heartbeat sped up. Frozen, I watched through my mask as a whale shark approximately 30 feet in length glided past, close enough that I could touch it. I didn’t scream and fill my breathing tube with saltwater and drown in a watery grave like I always imagined. 

Instead, I silently kicked my flippers and swam side by side with this gentle, polka-dotted giant.

Whale sharks, despite their massive stature and wide mouths, are among the most docile of their species. Filter feeders, their cavernous mouths are lined with about 300 super tiny teeth, allowing for a generous scoop of plankton and small fish, which is their primary diet. They can live anywhere from 80 to 130 years, and have been around since the Jurassic period.

In La Paz, whale shark tours are available from October through May and can be arranged through a certified guide. Just two hours north of Los Cabos, La Paz is the capital of Baja California Sur, a Mexican state on the Baja California peninsula. Whale shark season in this area typically runs from the winter into early spring, making this an excellent time for a chance encounter.

Just as quickly as it’d appeared, after two minutes of our synchronized swim, the shark picked up speed and continued on its own trajectory into the sea.

Popping up to the surface, I was met with cheers from the rest of my dive group.

“That was amazing! Go again?” Christian yelled.

“I think I’m good,” I yelled back, and started a speedy front crawl back to the boat—because after what I just witnessed, who knows what else might lie beneath?

Five of the prettiest European flower festivals to visit this spring

March 20, 2024 No Comments

Europe is home to some of the world’s most beautiful flower festivals.

These festivals not only celebrate the ephemeral beauty of flowers but also serve as cultural showcases, enticing travelers from around the world to immerse themselves in the splendor of Europe’s floral heritage.

Here are our five top picks to attend this spring!

Maderia's Flower Festival

From May 2 – 26, 2024, the Madeira Flower Festival unfurls as an enchanting spectacle, creating unforgettable moments in the hearts of both locals and visitors alike. For more than four decades, Madeira has embraced the cherished Wall of Hope ceremony.

With more than a thousand participants of all ages, the festival’s focal point is the Flower Parade, transforming the streets of Funchal into a vibrant spectacle of music, colour, and floral fragrances.

A dazzling procession of floats, adorned with dancers and musicians donning creative and colourful costumes, captivates the senses of onlookers. The festival also features a variety of smaller events, such as flower concerts offering live music amidst lush flora, as well as markets where visitors can purchase plants and indulge in regional cuisine. A week later, the charm continues with the Madeira Auto Parade, a delightful fusion of classic cars and exquisite natural floral arrangements.

Holland's Tulip Festival

Holland’s Tulip Festival, perhaps the best-known flower festival of all, takes place this year from March 21 to May 12.

Held annually in various locations across the country, including the famous Keukenhof Gardens and surrounding bulb fields, the festival showcases the beauty and diversity of tulips in full bloom. Visitors can expect to be mesmerized by endless fields of vividly colored tulips stretching as far as the eye can see, creating a breathtaking panorama of natural beauty. From traditional tulip varieties to rare and exotic hybrids, the festival offers a kaleidoscope of floral displays that captivate the senses. In addition to admiring the flowers, attendees can immerse themselves in Dutch culture through live music, traditional dance performances, and local cuisine, making the Holland Tulip Festival a truly immersive and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

At Keukenhof Gardens, roughly a 40-minute drive from Amsterdam, you’ll experience the magic of more than seven million spring flowering bulbs blooming throughout May. From the famous tulips to other varietals like roses and chrysanthemums, Keukenhof remains one of the most popular spots to view spring flowers in the world.

Adult tickets to Keukenhof Gardens cost €19.50 and sell out quickly. However, there are plenty of other places to revel in the Netherlands’ spring colours.

From public parks and gardens, to museum grounds and of course, the abundance of tulip fields easily seen by train, the beauty of the country’s florals are on full display throughout the season.

The Chelsea Flower Show

The Chelsea Flower Show, held annually in London, England, is one of the world’s most prestigious floral events.

Organized by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), it attracts gardening enthusiasts, designers, and celebrities (including members of the Royal Family) from around the globe. Showcasing innovative garden designs, rare plants, and cutting-edge horticultural techniques, the Chelsea Flower Show is a celebration of creativity and expertise in the realm of gardening and landscaping.

From stunning show gardens to vibrant floral displays, the event offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty and diversity of the natural world.

This year’s flower show takes place from May 21 to May 24 in Chelsea, London. Guests can explore more than 300 exhibitors who are selling everything from artisanal products to spring bulbs and blooms.

Girona's Tiempo de Flores

From May 11 to May 19, visitors to Girona, Spain can enjoy the Girona flors de temps, a free flower festival that’s been held every year in Girona’s Barri Vell neighbourhood since 1954.

Roughly an hour’s drive from Barcelona, Girona is a northeastern Spanish city known for its well-preserved Old Quarter with fortifications dating back to the 1st century BC. 

Rather than a mass display of gardens, Girona’s entire city—especially the historic centre and the medieval Jewish quarter is dressed in flowers—from florals cascading down steps to monuments wrapped in petals upon petals.

Many buildings not typically open to the public also exhibit during this week. Girona’s citizens are known to get in on the fun, too, with many houses decorating their balconies and doorways with colourful flowers. 

Sicily's Infiorata di Noto

Sicily’s Infiorata di Noto is a dazzling spectacle that transforms the streets of Noto, a picturesque town in southeastern Sicily, into a canvas of floral artistry.

Held annually during late spring, this centuries-old tradition sees local artists and volunteers meticulously arranging thousands of vibrant flower petals into intricate and elaborate designs and “floral carpets” that span the cobblestone streets. 

Visitors flock to Noto from all over the world to witness the breathtaking beauty of the floral carpets, which often depict religious motifs, mythological scenes, and intricate geometric patterns.

Happening this year from May 18 to May 21, the festival, with its origins dating back to the 16th century, celebrates the end of winter and the arrival of spring, as well as the region’s rich cultural heritage. This year’s theme will pay homage to the musical works of Italian composer Giacomo Puccini, who is best known for his operas.

 

Popular tour operator leading trips to Bosnia & Herzegovinia

February 9, 2024 No Comments

G Adventures will soon be offering an extended program of trips to Bosnia and Herzegovina that are designed to support local communities, while showcasing the Balkan nation’s distinctive culture, nature and heritage.

The new trips are launching as the result of a collaboration between the U.S. Government’s USAID Developing Sustainable Tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina (USAID Turizam) initiative, the Global Travel & Tourism Resilience Council (GTTRC), and G Adventures.

Yves Marceau, vice-president of product for G Adventures, welcomed the partnership and opportunity to expand the operator’s trip offerings in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

“The Balkans is a special part of the world that is growing in popularity as people move beyond traditional European destinations. As more travellers start to visit, it’s important that tourism develops the right way – a way that supports local people and communities. Travel is a two-way exchange, and we’re excited to introduce our new trips in 2025,” Marceau said.

A "model for tourism development"

Karl Wurster, Director of the Economic Development Office at USAID/BiH says the success of this collaboration will serve as a model for tourism development, not only in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but worldwide.

“We are pleased to launch our collaboration with G Adventures, a company that takes travellers from around the world to more than 100 countries. What’s most impressive is G Adventures’ commitment to community tourism, which will ensure the long-term sustainability of tourism development in Bosnia and Herzegovina,” said Wurster.

As part of the new partnership, representatives from G Adventures will be visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina to explore new destinations, services and experiences to expand existing itineraries and introduce new and extended trips. Here, USAID Turizam will introduce G Adventures to suppliers and service providers to discuss ideas for future on-trip experiences.

For more information on G Adventures, please visit www.gadventures.com.

There’s an epic helicopter tour proposal in Los Cabos that costs $67,000

September 6, 2023 No Comments

Grand Velas Los Cabos introduces a new helicopter engagement, complete with a Michelin Dinner Under the Stars and expert-led stargazing session. Considered one of NASA’s top 20 places for night-sky research, the night sky of the Baja Peninsula is a region renowned for its celestial views.

The helicopter proposal begins with a pickup directly at the hotel on its rooftop, Terraza Del Mar, where couples are treated to canapés and drinks before embarking on a 75-minute helicopter tour.

Starting just before sunset, the golden-hour tour takes passengers  to the arch of Cabo San Lucas. As the helicopter tour concludes, couples are surprised with the view of a floral display on the beach that spells out “Will You Marry Me?”

Alternatively, the hotel can create an oversized  whale outline in candles, an ode to the destination’s annual whale migration. Then it’s on to an open-air beach dining experience with two Michelin star chef Sidney Schutte. The couple will be in full view of the stars, planets and constellations stretching over the Los Cabos Baja Peninsula where the open-air beach location is matched only by Chef Sidney’s open-flame dinner preparation.

A Michelin-worthy proposal

Influenced by the natural beauty of Baja Sur, Chef Sidney transforms traditional dishes with a contemporary vision. Signature cocktails and premium wines complement the meal inspired by nature. Following dinner, couples are invited to partake in an immersive stargazing session. Guided by NASA-certified astronomer, guests explore astronomy through a high-quality 127 mm Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope.

In summer, approximately 75 per cent of constellations are visible and planets like Jupiter, Mars and Saturn rise earlier. In addition to scoping the Milky Way, Zodiac Signs, and many nebulae (star clusters), couples will play games together and learn about the Mayan Calendar and Native American moons.

A three-night stay in Grand Velas Los Cabos’ Presidential Suite is also included with the engagement experience. The 5,451 sq. ft. Presidential Suite provides an unobstructed ocean front view and boasts amenities like a private terrace, immersion pool, separate living and dining room, in-suite bar, and more. Additional inclusions are two 50-minute Therapeutic Massages per stay, VIP transportation, a private in-suite dinner, private tequila tasting in-suite, and unlimited Water Ceremonies at the award-winning SE Spa.

Grand Velas Los Cabos offers two distinct tiers for this experience, each catering to different preferences and budgets. Starting rates for the Helicopter Engagement Experience with Presidential Suite accommodations, Michelin Star dining and the astronomy session are $67,255. Alternatively, the proposal with accommodations in a Grand Class Suite,  helicopter tour, and private beach dinner with a solo musician begins at $11,700. B

oth tiers offer customizable elements such as photography or extra stargazing participants, allowing couples to personalize the experience to their preferences and budget. Gourmet meals, premium branded beverages, 24-hour in-suite service, nightly entertainment, taxes, gratuity, and more are also included in the resort’s nightly rate.

Five of the best cities for luxury shopping

June 30, 2023 No Comments

Few destinations can rival the grandeur and allure of metropolitan cities like Paris, New York City, London, Milan and Dubai. 

According to Statista, the luxury goods market in Canada is projected to grow by 2.70 per cent between 2023 and 2028, resulting in a market volume of US$7.87B (CAD $10.7B) by 2028.

Luxury fashion, in particular, dominates the luxury goods market, with travellers going to international lengths to score a great bargain. For those seeking a more refined wardrobe, few destinations can rival the grandeur and allure of metropolitan cities like Paris, New York City, London, Milan and Dubai. 

Milan, Italy

Fashion Week in Milan, Italy may only be held bi-annually in February and September, but strolling through the streets on any given day of the year, you’ll feel as though you’re in a fashion show of your own.

Italian fashion can be traced back to the Renaissance period, as early as the mid 1400’s, when some of Italy’s most famous cities, like Venice, Milan, Florence, Naples and Rome, began producing sought-after textiles like velvet, silk and wool. Italian fashion reached the height of its success in the 1950s and 1960s, when some of the biggest designers and fashion houses were born, including Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Missoni, Roberto Cavalli, Prada, Versace, and Armani among others. 

Milan, a sprawling metropolis in Italy’s northern Lombardy region, is home to 1.3 million people and is an iconic, global destination for luxury fashion and shopping. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, located in the same plaza as the breathtaking Duomo di Milano, is Italy’s oldest active shopping centre, having opened in 1877.

Housed in a soaring, four-storey building complete with arched glass ceilings where blue sky peeks through, it’s home to some of the city’s oldest shops, as well as luxury retailers selling everything from haute couture and jewellery, to artworks and books. Of course, any good shopping trip requires a little pick-me-up, and the Galleria’s many restaurants, cafés and bars are sure to do the trick.

Paris, France

Paris, often regarded as the fashion capital of the world, offers a plethora of high-end shopping destinations that cater to luxury enthusiasts. The city’s Golden Triangle, nestled between Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Élysées, hosts the crème de la crème of fashion houses. Here, haute couture and high-end brands harmoniously coexist, enticing patrons with their meticulous craftsmanship and visionary designs.

You’ll find an exquisite array of prestigious fashion houses such as Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Givenchy. The luxurious window displays and opulent boutiques in this area make for an unforgettable shopping experience.

Another must-visit location for luxury shopping in Paris is Le Bon Marché. Located in the chic neighbourhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Le Bon Marché is the city’s oldest and most prestigious department store. This shopping mecca offers a wide range of high-end brands, including Gucci, Prada, and Hermès.

From fashion and accessories to home decor and gourmet food, Le Bon Marché showcases an unparalleled selection of luxury goods, all housed within an elegant and stylish environment. Whether you’re looking for the latest designer trends or seeking timeless elegance, Paris has an abundance of luxurious shopping destinations that will surely leave you feeling indulged and inspired.

New York City, U.S.

In the cosmopolitan city that never sleeps, one of the most iconic places to find high-end fashion is Fifth Avenue. Amidst the glittering skyscrapers, luxury enthusiasts find themselves immersed in a world of unparalleled extravagance, as this legendary street is home to some of the world’s most prestigious designer flagship stores, including iconic names such as Tiffany & Co., Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue and Louis Vuitton. 

SoHo, another trendy neighbourhood that’s known for its cobblestone streets and cast-iron buildings, houses a variety of high-end boutiques and international designer shops. Brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Alexander Wang can be found nestled among independent designer stores, providing a unique and diverse shopping experience that ultimately suits every budget.

SoHo’s combination of luxury fashion, artistic ambiance, and charming cafes make it a favourite destination for fashion enthusiasts looking for a blend of sophistication and downtown cool. Whether you’re searching for avant-garde designs or classic elegance, New York City offers a wealth of luxury shopping destinations to satisfy every fashion connoisseur.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai has solidified its position as a luxury shopping destination, thanks in part to its tax-free shopping policy. Visitors can enjoy substantial savings on goods due to the absence of value-added tax (VAT) and customs duties, making it a particularly attractive destination for luxury shoppers hoping to score a bargain.

With its state-of-the-art infrastructure, excellent connectivity and a world-class hospitality industry, Dubai attracts millions of tourists each year. The city’s luxurious resorts, extravagant attractions, and vibrant entertainment options contribute to an overall experience that complements the thrill of luxury shopping.

One of the most renowned spots is the Dubai Mall. Not only is it the largest shopping mall in the world, but it also houses an extensive collection of luxury brands. Here, you’ll find flagship stores of iconic fashion houses such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Prada. The Dubai Mall also boasts The Fashion Avenue, a dedicated precinct for luxury fashion, where you can explore a curated selection of high-end boutiques and designer labels.

For a unique shopping experience, the City Walk is another noteworthy destination. Situated in a vibrant neighbourhood, City Walk offers a fusion of luxury shopping, dining, and entertainment. It showcases an array of international fashion brands, including high-end designers like Balenciaga, Alexander McQueen, and Dolce & Gabbana. With its pedestrian-friendly streets, contemporary architecture, and upscale boutiques, City Walk provides a chic and stylish environment for luxury shoppers.

London, England

London presents an enticing blend of regal charm and avant-garde innovation. One of the most iconic areas for luxury shopping in London is Bond Street. Located in the heart of the city’s prestigious Mayfair district, Bond Street is home to an impressive lineup of renowned designer boutiques. Here, you’ll find flagship stores of high-end fashion houses such as Chanel, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Alexander McQueen. 

Another prominent location for designer fashion shopping in London is Sloane Street. Situated in the affluent district of Knightsbridge, Sloane Street offers a curated selection of luxury brands, including iconic names like Christian Dior, Prada, Burberry, and Tom Ford. This exclusive street is known for its upscale boutiques and upscale ambiance, attracting fashion-savvy shoppers looking for the latest runway trends and timeless classics.

London’s iconic department stores, such as Harrods and Selfridges, are also not to be missed. These renowned establishments offer a comprehensive range of designer fashion brands across multiple floors. From high-end designer labels to emerging fashion talent, these department stores provide an immersive shopping experience with their opulent interiors and vast selections.