From Spain to the Maldives, Insights with Wanderluxe Travel Partners
Last week, I had the pleasure of attending a vibrant work lunch at Avra Beverly Hills that brought together some of the most inspiring destinations in travel. It was an incredible opportunity to connect, share ideas, and explore potential collaborations. Here’s a recap of the event and the amazing companies and hotels I had the chance to meet.
The Conversations
What made this lunch truly special was the depth of the conversations. We discussed everything from emerging travel trends to innovative ways to enhance the guest experience to a strong emphasis on personalization. The element that stands out to me the most after writing this post is the passion that everyone displayed for their destination. Their enthusiasm was contagious, and it was clear that they’re dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences for travelers.
Why These Connections Matter
As a luxury travel advisor, building strong relationships with industry leaders is key to providing my clients with the best possible experiences. These connections allow me to offer exclusive access, insider knowledge, and tailored recommendations that make every trip unforgettable.
Castle Hot Springs
What To Know: An hour outisde of Phoenix, Arizona, this all-inclusive desert oasis has received top awards from Forbes and Travel and Leisure. The hotel’s cuisine is supplied by their own oragnic farm. Adventure seekers can enjoy canyon exploration, UTV and e-bike tours, while spa goers can find relaxation in the natural hot springs.
Key Takeaway: I think staying at this hotel looks like an amazing way to disconnect from daily life while reconnecting with nature and you don’t even have to travel around the world. Previous clients have loved their time here. Bonus: Any bookings for May 2025 will receive an additional $250 resort credit.
Level Up DMC - UAE destinaton planning
What To Know: Level Up offers a key partnership into all elements of planning a trip or event in several Middle East destinations- UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Qatar. Their individual approach and in-market reputation ensures an elevated and tailored experience.
Key Takeaway: From the basics like an arrival transfer to in depth itineraries with special experiences, out of the box suggestions like camel racing, and destination knowledge, they’re a great partner to have for clients traveling to the region.
Velaa Private Island in the Maldives
What To Know: Could this be the most exclusive private resort in the world? A 45 minute flight from Male, the hotel is on a natural island that has 47 villas, houses, and residences, about half of which are overwater The island is also home to a long lineage of sea turtles.
Key Takeaway: The two 4-bedroom residences are absolutely next level with over 13,000 square feet of living space turning your vacation into a paradise away from home. The “wine cellar” shaped more like a silo, is the largest in the Maldives with plenty of rare finds.
Andean Lux - Peru Destination Planning
What To Know: A family run business with over 20 years of experience, they are experts in crafting personalized trip around Peru.
Key Takeaway: Because of their breadth of knowledge, they have great access to hidden gems. Their guides are all hand selected and several focused on families helping make sure kids and teens stay engaged throughout your trip.
The Real Thing - Spain Destination Planning
What To Know: A team extremely passionate about Spain, they are so enthusiastic about getting off the beaten path, connecting with locals, and diving into the heart of what makes any visit to the country so special.
Key Takeaway: They’re another great example of an in-destination partner that will work with a bespoke itinerary adjusting to the clients interests. If it’s a first trip or a tenth trip to Spain, they’ll help craft a trip that is authentic and fresh.
The Little Orange- Portugal Destination Planning
What To Know: Portugal is a very unique European destination with more and more offerings becoming available for the luxury market. The team at the Little Orange want clients to delve into the heart of this uniqueness leaving a lasting impression of the Portugese people and the moments they encountered.
Key Takeaway: Their selected villa program looks fantastic for larger groups of friends or families that want extra space and privacy. Staying in a villa will allow clients to connect longer with the destination instead of rush through trying to check off a box on their list.
Grand Hotel Parker’s - Naples, Italy
What To Know: A family owned hotel since the 1870’s with 67 rooms and suites offering views of the Bay, Capri, and Mt Vesuvius. They have a two Michelin star restaurant and rooftop lounge to enjoy the views all throughout the day. More than just the hotel, the family wants you to explore Naples and enjoy what this city and region have to offer.
Key Takeaway: I first met Giovanni last Spring at a conference in Milan and he is not someone you easily forget. His passion for hospitality bleeds through his personality and he makes you want to see Naples through his eyes. I’m confident any trip to the city will exceed a client’s expectations with a stay at Grand Hotel Parker’s.
Hotel Vilon - Rome, Italy
What To Know: Located just off the exclusive shopping street Via dei Condotti in Rome, about a 7 minute walk from the Spanish Steps and very close to the Tiber River, the hotel is tucked away like a hidden gem. The building is a restored historic mansion and the public areas will feel like relaxing in a private home.
Key Takeaway: There is so much hotel product to choose from in Rome that clients are very lucky to be able to find their perfect match. The location and intimacy of Hotel Vilon are great for couples exploring the city for a few nights.
Santorini Secret Hotels - Greece
What To Know: With just 17 rooms and suites, the hotel is perched on the cliffs of Santorini in the village of Oia with spectacular views. Many rooms have a jacuzzi or private pool. This is an ideal setting for honeymoons and romantic retreats.
Key Takeaway: I was lucky enough to spend a night at Santorini Secret several years ago. One of the best ways to wake up anywhere is by looking off your terrace and trying to find the space where the sea meets the sky. The hotel is perfectly positioned to explore Santorini or just relax by the pool.
The Romano’s and W Costa Navarino - Greece
What To Know: Costa Navarino in Greece is one of the Mediterranean’s most luxurious and sustainable destinations. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and world-class amenities, it’s a perfect getaway for travelers seeking relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. The resorts take advantage of all of this and have won many Best Of awards in Greece.
Key Takeaway: Great for a repeat trip to Greece, Costa Navarino is ideal for longer stays and more immersive experiences.
Seez Travel - Greece Destination Planning
What To Know: Their love for Greece is evident in the way they put together their itineraries. They inspect the hotels they work with and have personal relationships with general managers and yacht owners. From luxury travel to an off the beaten path spots like Spetses and Monemvasia, they specialize in all things Greece.
Key Takeaway: They are incredible at anticipating a guests’ needs. Their concierge services help with last minute dinner reservations, concert tickets, and shopping trips. They also offer a spectacular luggage transfer service when island hopping.
Looking Ahead
This lunch was a great reminder of how dynamic and collaborative the travel industry is. I left feeling inspired and excited about the possibilities ahead. I can’t wait to share these new insights and opportunities with my clients as we plan their next dream getaways.
Interested in learning more about these companies or planning a trip inspired by their offerings? Contact me today at Mark@MDTraveling.com to start crafting your next unforgettable journey!