Grand Voyages Weekly Digest

Happy Saturday, Grand Voyagers!

Can you believe we're already approaching summer? This week has been absolutely incredible for luxury travel discoveries - from experiencing Emirates' A380 business class magic to writing this from Montreal, which is completely blowing my mind as North America's best-kept luxury secret! 🌊

If you're enjoying these bi-weekly finds, please share with a friend! There's a handy button below to make it super easy. ✨

✈️ EMIRATES A380 MAGIC

Just dropped our latest YouTube documentary and I'm still buzzing from this experience! We flew Emirates business class LAX to Dubai on their newly renovated A380 - and wow, this is how you arrive in style.

The experience starts before you even get to the airport: chauffeured car pickup at home, spacious LAX lounge with balcony views, then 16 hours in what might be the finest business class cabin in the skies. We're talking fully flat beds, personal mini bars, multicourse meals that are cultural introductions (hello lamb ouzi!), and that famous A380 bar and lounge at the back.

But the real magic? First class passengers get exclusive access to onboard shower spas at 38,000 feet - yes, actual showers with 5-6 minutes of running water and every amenity you could want. Even NASA-developed star projection systems in the ceiling!

This flight wasn't just transportation - it was the perfect introduction to the Arabian Peninsula's blend of luxury and hospitality. Check out the full documentary to see behind-the-scenes access you won't find anywhere else!

🛳️ LAKE COMO’S LUXURY LEGENDS

My clients can't stop asking about Lake Como this summer! With Villa D'Este and Passalacqua both fully booked through peak season, this legendary lake is having a major moment.

Villa D'Este continues to reign supreme - that famous floating pool on the lake, 25 acres of manicured gardens, and service so intuitive it feels like mind-reading. The Canova Bar's aperitivo hour while watching sunset over the Alps? Pure magic.

But the real buzz is around Passalacqua - just snagged "World's Best Hotel" in 2023! Only 24 suites, hidden spa in underground tunnels, daily gelato-making classes... it feels more like staying at a magnificent friend's private villa than a hotel.

Already planning several client itineraries around these gems - the demand is absolutely incredible this year!

LET’S PLAN YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE!

Hit me up if you're dreaming about your next getaway! Whether it's a luxury river cruise, a hidden European gem, or a work-friendly extended stay, I'd love to help make it happen.

My specialty? Finding those perfect spots that blend high-end experiences with authentic local flavor.

Just email me at [email protected] and let's start planning something amazing for you!

🍁 NORTH AMERICA’S HIDDEN GEM

Currently writing this from Montreal and I have to say - this city is absolutely blowing my mind! North America's best-kept luxury secret with all the sophistication of Paris plus that laid-back Canadian warmth.

The hotel scene is incredible. Le Mount Stephen sits in a restored 19th-century mansion with wood-paneled lobbies. Hotel William Gray offers rooftop terraces with St. Lawrence River views. Plus thermal spas like Espace with salt water hot tubs and waterfalls!

Here's the kicker: luxury experiences cost a fraction of what you'd pay in other major cities. Cobblestone streets that make you forget you're in North America, incredible food scene, and everyone greets you with "Bonjour, hi!"

Trust me, Montreal delivers European sophistication with incredible value - something that's getting harder to find anywhere else in North America.

🏖️ EUROPEAN ISLAND ESCAPES

Currently obsessing over European islands for summer planning and honestly, the variety is incredible! Whether my clients want adrenaline-pumping adventures or lazy beach days, there's literally an island for every mood.

For nature lovers, I'm totally smitten with Madeira - it's like hiking through a botanical wonderland with those 2000km of levada trails winding past waterfalls and into cloud-covered peaks. Reid's Palace has been serving up old-school glamour and dreamy afternoon teas since 1891!

But if you want adventure with style, Sardinia is calling your name. Costa Smeralda's Romazzino delivers that perfect mix of adrenaline and elegance - kite surfing by day, designer boutiques by evening.

For families, Mallorca is absolutely foolproof with soft-sand beaches and kid-friendly everything, while party people should head straight to Hvar where yacht parties meet Venetian architecture.

My current obsession though? Milos - over 70 beaches, many only accessible by boat, plus that otherworldly Sarakiniko beach that looks like you're on another planet!

🧭 INTENTIONAL TRAVEL IS EVERYTHING IN 2025

I've been calling this year "the year of intentional travel" and it's so true! There's a real mindset shift happening with luxury travelers - while they still appreciate beautiful properties and premium amenities, they're increasingly drawn to experiences that go deeper.

What they're craving? Authentic connections and meaningful experiences alongside the luxury. We're talking "anywhere travel" - having the means to go anywhere but being selective about experiences that actually resonate with their values and interests.

I'm seeing huge interest in "coolcationing" - choosing lesser-known destinations over Instagram hotspots. Places like Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan, Disko Island in Greenland, the Adirondacks... These spots offer something special: authentic interactions without crowds, plus that sense of discovery that's become so rare.

It's luxury redefined - premium experiences AND transformative moments that create lasting memories beyond just beautiful accommodations.

Need help finding those perfect off-the-beaten-path destinations that still deliver on luxury? That's exactly my sweet spot - just email me at [email protected]!

WHAT’S YOUR PICK?

Which of these experiences has you most intrigued? Emirates' onboard shower spas at 38,000 feet or Montreal's incredible European sophistication at North American prices? I absolutely love hearing what resonates with fellow travelers - your feedback always sparks the best conversations!

Thanks for joining me on another edition of luxury travel discoveries. Until next time, keep dreaming big about your next adventure!

Have a wonderful rest of your weekend!

Stacey

[email protected]