Bhutan is rolling out the red carpet for luxury travellers as it celebrates 50 years since opening its gilded doors to the world. 

by Zachary Riskin

To mark this anniversary celebration, the Department of Tourism will hold a six-month campaign, culminating on December 17, in honour of Bhutan’s National Day. This day holds great cultural significance for Bhutan, and the celebration is a perfect opportunity for travellers to immerse themselves in the country’s unique heritage.

Queenstown, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by New Zealand’s majestic Southern Alps, offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and indulgence. Here’s how to make the most of a day in the country’s favourite Alpine playground.

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With a rich culture and stunning natural landscapes, Central Asia is slated as one of the most popular emerging travel destinations for the year ahead, and for good reason.

If Central Asia isn’t already on your travel radar, perhaps it should be. With increased air access, the nations that make up Central Asia have opened up to tourism, allowing travelers the opportunity to soak up centuries of Silk Road history, delve into myriad cultures and traditions and explore the region’s pristine beauty. 

Georgia 

Born and raised in Belgium now relocated to Hong Kong, Maverick has been active in the tourism industry for over 10 years. 7 of which as a travel advisor specializing in tailor-made itineraries all over the world.

Golfing has long been associated with leisure and relaxation, but luxury golfing takes this experience to a whole new level. Imagine teeing off on world-class courses surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, indulging in exquisite dining, and enjoying top-notch amenities. Here’s why luxury golfing is the ultimate escape for enthusiasts and casual players alike.

Below are two golfing spots perfect for your golf-loving heart:

Galgorm Golf Course, Northern Ireland

Rovos Rail 

A brilliant add-on to an African safari, the acclaimed Rovos Rail's two luxury trains traverse points in Southern Africa on a host of unique multi-night itineraries, including the 15-night, 5,000-kilometre African Trilogy, which visits Durban, the Valley of a Thousand Hills, the Fish River Canyon and Namibia's dramatic coastline as well as some of the region's top safari parks. 

We will take a closer look at the ultimate Antarctica camping experience offered by two operators.

The days of only watching Antarctica’s mesmerizing coastline drift past, or perhaps venturing onto the ice for a few hours on zodiac excursions, White Desert and Ultima Antarctic Expeditions, now offer actual camps on the White Continent, complete with a raft of activities to keep ice bunnies happy throughout the season.

White Desert

Twilight Express Mizukaze

One of Japan's most coveted luxury trains, the Twilight Express runs the rails between Kyoto, Osaka, and Shimonoseki at the southern trip Honshu, with opportunities to delve into traditional culture, art, and history at stops like Matsue, Izumo, and Miyajima along the way.

Operated by Japan's JR East and Jr West rail companies, the train also passes along the Sea of Japan, Mount Daisen and the Seto Inland Sea islands, best viewed from the glass-encased observation car. 

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express 

Arguably the most famous train in the world, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, a Belmond train, whisks guests back to the glamour of the 1920s, complete with tuxedos at dinner and champagne-laced lobster brunches in Paris. 

Always one to innovate, in addition to its lavish staterooms and Pullman compartments, the VSOE recently welcomed L'Observatoire, a private and exclusive sleeper carriage designed by leading artist JR.