Category Archives: Journeys

All Aboard Ultimate Whiskey Odyssey – Belmond Royal Scotsman

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All Aboard Ultimate Whiskey Odyssey. From the moment the Royal Scotsman, a luxury Belmond Train, draws out of Edinburgh’s Waverly Station, you’re embarking on a truly unforgettable experience. Sail into a magic realm where, history, nature and whiskey combine! 

Life onboard the train is relaxed and indulgent, blending gastronomic dining with the unmistakable air of Celebration among good friends. An ecocative exploration of the ‘water of life’.

22 OCTOBER 2023. Join us aboard Royal Scotsman for an evocative exploration of the ‘water of life’ in collaboration with two iconic whisky distilleries – Glenmorangie and Ardbeg.

Your whisky epic adventure awaits. From Edinburgh, head north to reach Aviemore and Tain, where you will visit the Glenmorangie Distillery. Later, travel back to Dundee to take a private jet to Islay for a tour at Ardbeg Distillery. Get back onboard in Paisley and pass through Kilmarnock, before reaching your final destination Edinburgh.

Discover hallowed distilleries and time-honored heritage in the company of two revered whisky experts – Charles MacLean, awarded an MBE for services to Scotch Whisky in 2021, and Dr. Bill Lumsden, a pioneer in the malt industry and the genius behind the creations at both and Glenmorangie.

Journey across this spellbinding land in complete luxury, the Royal Scotsman your moving sanctuary of Edwardian elegance. Along the way, be immersed in rugged Highland beauty, age-old fables, and modern Scottish culture as you jet to islands for private tours, revel in exclusive tastings and taste some of the world’s best whisky.

Inclusions: 3 nights on board Royal Scotsman luxury train, with 24- hour steward service.  Clay pigeon shooting, fishing, or a guided tour of Rothiemurchus Estate. Special nosing and tasting with whisky expert Charles MacLean.

Your whisky epic adventure awaits. From Edinburgh, head north to reach Aviemore and Tain, where you will visit the Glenmorangie Distillery. Later, travel back to Dundee to take a private jet to Islay for a tour at Ardbeg Distillery. Get back onboard in Paisley and pass through Kilmarnock, before reaching your final destination Edinburgh.

EDINBURGH As you depart Edinburgh Waverley Station, prepare to embrace dramatic landscapes and vivid elements in all their glory. On board, elegant Edwardian interiors wrap you in the warmth of cashmere and tartan, allowing you to explore the Highlands surrounded by the finest modern comforts.

Your journey begins in the early afternoon as you travel north to the ‘Fair City’ of Perth. Enjoy afternoon tea as the train continues the Highland line through Dunkeld, Pitlochry and Blair Atholl with its imposing castle.

Make your way to the Observation Car for an exclusive nosing and tasting with whisky expert and prolific author, Charles MacLean. Whether novice or aficionado, Charlie as will guide you through the mysteries of the ‘water of life’.

Your destination this evening is the peaceful Boat of Garten on the private Strathspey Railway, where an informal dinner is served. Our Chef’s inventive menus use the finest local ingredients, such as day-caught wild salmon, hand-dived scallops and Aberdeen Angus beef. Chanterelles, wild garlic and bitter cress are foraged straight from Scotland’s wild larder. After dinner, enjoy lively entertainment in the Observation Car where musicians and performers will join you, blending sweet, slow Gaelic songs with lively folk melodies.

WHO: CHARLES MACLEAN MBE An old-school bon viveur and author of 18 books — including Malt Whisky, winner of the Glenfiddich Award — Charles MacLean’s grasp of the history and heritage of the whisky industry is second to none. The great raconteur will entertain your Whisky Odyssey as you travel north into the dramatic hills and valleys of the Cairngorms National Park.

DAY TWO ROTHIEMURCHUS AND GLENMORANGIE After breakfast, travel by coach to Rothiemurchus Estate in the heart of the Cairngorms — one of the largest and most important remnants of the native Caledonian pine forest. Choose from several activities including clay pigeon-shooting, fishing or a guided tour of the estate with one of the rangers.

Afterwards, enjoy a warm welcome from your hosts as refreshments are served in their hunting lodge and you discover some of the rich history of this family-run estate. Return to the train in Carrbridge for lunch as the train travels north towards Inverness. Late afternoon, visit Glenmorangie, the distillery that produces one of the whisky fraternity’s favourite drams across all corners of the globe. The gleaming swan-necked copper stills are the tallest in Scotland and play a vital role in allowing only the lightest and purest spirit to make it into the final malt. Meet Dr Bill Lumsden, a legend in the whisky world and the genius behind the creations at Ardbeg and Glenmorangie.

Your tour concludes with a private tasting in the 17th -century Glenmorangie House with Dr Lumsden. Re-join the train in time for pre-dinner drinks. Dinner will be served as the train travels south, retracing the route through Inverness and Aviemore. Afterwards, indulge in a nightcap while enjoying the evening entertainment in the Observation Car.

WHO: DR BILL LUMSDEN The man behind the Glenmorangie and Ardbeg whisky bottles, Bill Lumsden is a recognised name in the world of single malt Scotch — throughout his illustrious career, the pioneer has crafted whiskies that have truly changed the industry. Hop on an adventurous Whisky Odyssey journey and side with the expert as he offers a rare experience to learn about new developments at Glenmorangie.

DAY THREE ARDBEG After an early breakfast, leave the train and travel to nearby Dundee airfield to take a private jet to Islay. Here, you will enjoy a private tour and tasting at Ardbeg Distillery, sister distillery to Glenmorangie. Located in the south of the island, it is famous for producing a heavily peated whisky that is coveted worldwide. Abundant soft water, fertile soil and acres of precious peat make the island a place of pilgrimage for whisky enthusiasts. Once more, meet Dr Lumsden who will guide you through a masterclass and a tasting of rare, single-cask whiskies and distillery-only bottlings.

Lunch will be served at the distillery, followed by a chance to sample oysters on Ardbeg’s own private pier, breathing in the fresh sea air and Ardbeg’s peaty aroma.

Transfer to Islay airfield late afternoon to take your private plane back to the mainland, and re-join the train on the outskirts of Glasgow for your final night on board. Enjoy a Gala dinner as you journey south towards Kilmarnock for overnight stabling, followed by evening entertainment in the Observation Carriage.

DAY FOUR EDINBURGH After an early departure from Kilmarnock this morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast aboard Royal Scotsman as you travel east towards Edinburgh Waverley Station and your Whisky Odyssey’s journey ends.

FINE DINING All meals aboard the train: full Scottish breakfast, two-course lunch, three-course dinner including cheeseboard, coffee, tea and petits fours. All beverages including alcoholic drinks.

ONBOARD ENTERTAINMENT Traditional ceilidhs, informal dinners, evening entertainments in the Observation Car and a gala dining experience

LIFE ON BOARD THE CABINS The Edwardian-style cabins, fitted with mahogany marquetry, provide a cozy opulent haven in which to relax. Royal Scotsman has four singles, fifteen twin and three double cabins available. All private cabins are equipped with an ensuite shower room, a wardrobe, a desk, and a picture window from which to savor the unfolding Scottish countryside.

THE NEW GRAND REFLECTION OF HIGHLAND EXCELLENCE A seamless symphony of timeless Scottish tradition and a pioneering vision of luxury, two new Grand Suites joining the rake will take your Highland adventure to new heights of indulgent excellence. The new Grand Suites will complement the existing Twin and Double cabins.

DINING The wood paneling and rich upholstery that adorn the two dining cars, Raven and Swift, set the scene for an unforgettable onboard dining experience. Their expert chefs use their inimitable flair to create imaginative dishes using the freshest local produce.

Life On Board ENTERTAINMENT Enjoy traditional Scottish entertainment after dinner in the Observation Car including music from local players.

OBSERVATION CAR The splendid Observation Car is your window on Scotland’s stunning scenery. Soak up the views from the comfort of the interior or breathe in the fresh air from the exhilarating open veranda. Choose from an array of drinks at the bar, including over 50 whiskies.

DIOR SPA ROYAL SCOTSMAN Highland-inspired and relaxing beauty rituals on the move. Completely dedicated to wellness, the spa carriage boasts two lacquered treatment rooms, styled with Christian Dior’s iconic burgundy toile de Jouy motif. Step into the Dior Spa Royal Scotsman to relish, unwind and rejuvenate in a tranquil space as the train meanders through Scotland’s awe-inspiring peaks and dramatic valleys.

Whiskey Odyssey is a single event, but golf tours can be added as well.

Ancient Treasures Egypt. The Ultimate Pharaoh Lifestyle

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The country is safe, open to travelers and is amid a hotel renaissance, and the new Egyptian Museum is scheduled for a fall opening.  An exclusive private tour of Egypt, which is perfect for anyone who wants to see the country’s most significant cultural artifacts and enjoy the most luxurious accommodations.

Egypt

Our clients are escorted throughout Egypt by one of the country’s top private guides including on the luxury Nile River cruise. Experience Cairo as an insider. Visit the most interesting cultural attractions in the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, such as the Citadel, the Egyptian Museum, (fingers crossed the new Museum opens soon), and the Hanging Church.

Explore our favorite neighborhoods, which are filled with beautiful Mameluk, Ottoman, Fatimid, Islamic, Coptic and Art Deco architecture. With a look at the well-preserved medieval residences originally owned by wealthy merchants. Meander through fascinating markets such as the legendary Khan al-Khalili bazaar, this huge bazaar is in the center of Islamic Cairo.

Also visit smaller and lesser-known museums dedicated to Islamic art, applied arts and Egyptian culture.

Spend a day on a private excursion to the Pyramids of Giza, a UNESCO-listed burial complex that includes pyramids, tombs, temples, the Solar Boat and the Great Sphinx. Giza was built in the early 26th century BC during a period of around 27 years, the pyramid is the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the only one to remain largely intact.

  • Egypt
  • Egypt
  • Egypt

Visit the even older pyramids of Dahshur and Saqqara. If inclined, you might want to try the ancient transportation vehicle on the back of a camel by the Giza Pyramids, and perhaps see the interiors of the Great and Bent pyramids.

We can arrange VIP experiences including exclusive access to well-preserved tombs that are not open to the public and after-hours private tours of major sites such as the Egyptian Museum and the Pyramids of Giza.

Next, fly to Aswan, considered Egypt’s loveliest city, more idyllic than other Egyptian cities. Aswan is known for its beautiful Nile Valley scenery, significant archaeological sites, and its peaceful aura. It’s warm all year round, which makes it a perfect winter destination. The city provides splendid views and attractions to sail or motor through the Nile. The legendary Old Cataract Hotel is situated on the banks of the Nile River in Aswan. An oasis reminiscent of a legendary dream, five star luxury on the banks of the Nile. Made famous by Agatha Christie, the charm still abounds.

During private touring with your Egyptologist guide, learn about Nubian life, history, and crafts at the excellent Nubian Museum. We won’t miss the stunning Temple of Philae, the High Dam and the Unfinished Obelisk. The Unfinished Obelisk is a more than 3,500-year-old monument from ancient Egypt that was abandoned when cracks formed in the granite.

Next fly to Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and two spectacular monumental temples commissioned by Pharaoh Ramses II and carved into sandstone cliffs.  This is generally considered the grandest and most beautiful of the temples commissioned during the reign of Ramesses II, and one of the most beautiful in Egypt.

Next, enjoy a four-night luxury Nile River cruise. Tour extraordinary archaeological sites such as the Temple of Horus (Edfu) and the Temple of Kom Ombo.

Modern Luxor which is also known as the world’s greatest open-air museum. It contains the ruins of the temples of Karnak and Luxor. The Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens, ancient burial grounds, lie nearby – these are where the ritual burials of the Pharaohs took place. To avoid feeling rushed in Luxor, you’ll need at least two days to explore its treasures. Before taking a Luxor day tour to delve into this age-old city, however, spend an hour or so in the Luxor Museum for a refresher course in Egyptian history.  Visit Luxor Temple and the Karnak complex, Medinet Habu, the Colossi of Memnon, and the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens, including the tombs of King Tut and Ramses VI.

  • Along the Nile
  • Along the Nile
  • Along the Nile

We can also arrange access to the spectacular tombs of Seti I and Queen Nefertari. Throughout the cruise, we can arrange private shore excursions with your own Egyptologist guide.

Hotels – The Jewel in the Desert, Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor a 5-star luxury hotel built in 1886 by British explorers perched on the Nile River amid luxuriant tropical gardens and ancient temples. 

Depending on your travel dates, this cruise is also available in reverse, from Luxor to Aswan.

Egypt

Addicted to the charm and history of Egypt? Continue to the Mediterranean city of Alexandria, which was founded by Alexander the Great and is today Egypt’s second-largest city, and the largest city on the Mediterranean coast. Founded in c. 331 BC by Alexander the Great. The Pearl of the Mediterranean has an ambiance more in keeping with its neighbors to the north than with those in the Middle East.

Explore the hidden charms of this fascinating city during touring with your private guide and driver. Visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina—a striking, state-of-the-art library and museum of antiquities—as well as ancient monuments, catacombs, and the site of the Pharos Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient World.

Egypt has been a major tourist destination since the 19th century, and it is one of the hottest destinations for travel by Americans. There’s always going to be a big market for tourism given how much Egyptian history along with the eternal fascination with pyramids, temples, and tombs still intrigue us centuries later.

While Egypt has a lot to offer in terms of tourism, enjoying a classic felucca boat down the Nile, marveling at the Pyramids, exploring the spectacles of Luxor, one can now add on a dazzling visit to the renovated Four Seasons Sharm El Sheikh.

Giza Pyramids, Egypt

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.
Mark Twain