If there’s one place in the world that stretches the imagination, takes game-viewing to the next level and has championed conservation to ensure long-term low-carbon development, the call to Botswana is a must for wildlife lovers and promises wide-eyed wonder. From the dry savanna of the Kalahari desert and Makgadikgadi salt pan to the rain-ripe Zambezian grasslands, lush marshlands and secluded waterways of the Okavango Delta, the stage is set for spontaneous adventure and exceptional beauty. Twitchers will delight in the unique birding paradise of the Delta, which provides safe shelter for 24 species of globally threatened birds and has recorded over 450 species at this refuge. The fragility of this watery oasis is teeming with wildlife, and the battle for survival is on full display for those who make the privileged journey within.
Savute Elephant Lodge, A Belmond Safari, Chobe National Park
Nestled in a remote corner of Chobe National Park, declared Botswana’s first in 1967, Belmond’s prime position places you in the heart of the Savute Channel, a historic and mysterious presence which ebbs and flows unpredictably. This region is reputed for its vast elephant herds and a dazzling zebra migration (the second largest!) during their Summer season, which in turn attracts their resident lion and hyena predators. With just 12 luxury tents on-site, a stunning outdoor swimming pool, bush sundowners and a rhythmic Boma dining to enhance your stay, follow in the footsteps of David Livingstone at this timeless Explorer’s lodge.
andBeyond Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp
Bordering the Moremi Game Reserve on an exclusive 25,000 hectare Big Five concession, the diverse habitat and wildlife here will keep you on your toes. At Nxabega under a canopy of ebony trees, you’ll find an intimate setting of just nine tents; expect rustic touches blended with contemporary elegance, private verandas, indoor/outdoor showers, and a hanging daybed to really absorb the setting. Take advantage of walking safaris, seasonal mokoro adventures, catch-and-release fishing and helicopter flights for an aerial perspective of the land-water dichotomy. Even better, 80% of their energy consumption is fuelled by green technology.
andBeyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge
With the main lodge sculpted to resemble a giant scaled pangolin at rest, and elevated walkways for spectacular wildlife viewing, the wooden tones and organic design of your nest enhance the craftsmanship of Botswana artisans and are soothing to the eye. Enjoy your free time between safaris in your own private plunge pool or relax on your secluded deck with a cooling local beer or tea. The people here make all the difference, where genuine hospitality and authentic experiences will inspire your stay – from the moment you step in, you’re part of their family. Try your hand at gourmet pizza making in the interactive kitchen, and don’t miss out on an Africa Foundation community visit at the Sexaxa School. In the cooler mornings and afternoons, spot opportunistic wild dogs crouching within the grass, working as a pack on the hunt.
andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp
This is a holistic and tranquil retreat with wellness therapies and outdoor massage treatments that get you closer to Nature’s therapeutic touch. Housed in soft pastel shades of your romantic sala, rise to the soothing sounds of the Delta from the comfort of your own deck, then dip into your private plunge pool and relax on lagoon-facing loungers. Multi-generation families may opt to buy-out these nine gorgeous tents, while couples will appreciate individual and special dining experiences for more privacy. Relaxation is king here, whether indulging in your personal Suite bar, taking part in a lazy bush brunch, or meandering on a walking safari to better understand the lay of the land
Eagle Island Lodge
Gaze out at pristine vistas of the savannah from your cavernous, light-filled sanctuary, with brooding shades of grey and gold that ooze sophistication. On this private inlet, take part in an experiential safari lodge that treads lightly on the surrounding environment. Saddle up for an unforgettable horseback safari, offering dynamic adventure on every ride. At night, soak up stargazing opportunities or head out on a night drive for a glimpse of a hunt. Staying here, you’ll be supporting Wild Entrust Africa, with projects that keep predators at bay and a chance to learn more about the secret lives of Wild Dogs.
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As April showers bid adieu and May blossoms into its full glory, the world beckons to explorers seeking vibrant landscapes and cultural delights. From the azure waters of the Balearic Islands to the cultural richness of Bolivia, and the wildlife wonders of Botswana, join us on a journey to discover why May is the perfect month to set your wanderlust free.
Balearic Islands
May invites you to the Balearic Islands, where the Mediterranean sun warms the crystal-clear waters. Avoiding the summer rush, you’ll find blooming landscapes and warm temperatures, ideal for exploring Ibiza’s opening parties, hiking Menorca’s Cami de Cavalls, and enjoying Formentera’s pristine beaches.
Richard Bransonâs latest dreamscape, Son Bunyola, is worth the splurge. Three spacious, traditional Balearic villas (one has five bedrooms, the others four) lie sprawled across 680 acres on Mallorcaâs northwest coast. Each has its own heated pool, sleek kitchen, and courtyard with dining area, although Son Balagueret â housing a bedroom in the original 13th-century turret â has its own magic. The lush estate includes vineyards, olive groves, and citrus orchards; you can walk to the beach, hike and bike on miles of mountain trails, or play some of the islandâs almost two dozen golf courses.
Virtuoso travellers receive:
Daily Continental Breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served on the Terrace of each Villa
For all-inclusive bookings only: A complimentary cooking class with a private chef for the entire party
Includes recipe card and a basket of local gifts
For self-catering bookings only: A 100 USD equivalent transfer credit
Bolivia
In May, Bolivia unfolds its cultural richness with unique festivals. Dive into the vibrant Gran Poder Festival in La Paz, explore Sucre’s colonial architecture in mild temperatures, and venture into the Amazon rainforest as it comes to life.
On the northern edge of Boliviaâs vast salt flats, youâll find Explora Uyuni, an ultra-exclusive 8-cabin retreat. As you might expect, nature takes center stage with outdoor adventures ranging from biking and wildlife sightings to hot spring soaks â you can even hike the dormant Tunupa Volcano up to 17,000 feet. Designed to generate minimum impact on its surroundings, the property is comprised of modular rooms, which makes it easy to be dismantled and reused in other breathtaking locations.
Virtuoso travellers receive:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom
$100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Botswana
May beckons wildlife enthusiasts to Botswana’s dry season. Embark on a safari in Moremi Game Reserve for optimal wildlife viewing, witness the flourishing ecosystem of the Okavango Delta, and marvel at the majestic Victoria Falls at its most spectacular.
In the heart of Botswanaâs rugged Kalahar, youâll find Jackâs Camp â a luxury safari camp featuring ten Bedouin-style canvas tents with ensuite bathrooms, indoor and alfresco showers, private verandas and plunge pools, and unmatched views looking out over the Makgadikgadi salt pan. Your stay comes with elegant candlelit dinners paired with local wines, walking safaris with San Bushmen, and, as you might expect, endless opportunities to observe zebra, wildebeest, and meerkats in their natural habitat.
Virtuoso travellers receive:
A complimentary 50 minute massage for up to two people, per room, once during stay
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
France
Experience ideal weather for outdoor adventures in France. Cycle through Provence’s lavender fields, visit Normandy’s Mont Saint-Michel with mild temperatures, and explore the charming villages of Alsace before the summer crowds.
$100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit utilized during stay
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Greece
Warm days, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds define May in Greece. Explore Crete’s Samaria Gorge, visit Santorini’s Oia Village before the tourist influx, and discover the ancient ruins of Delphi in perfect weather.
Put Sani Asterias high atop Greeceâs âitâ list. This 57-suite boutique beauty, adjacent to the Sani Marina, oozes exclusivity. The resortâs 1,000-acre nature reserve is your playground; a comprehensive menu of activities features birdwatching, beekeeping tours, paddleboard yoga, and cycling on KTM bikes loaded with GoPros. Beach Buddies serve grilled haloumi and fresh-squeezed juice along a private stretch of sand, and donât miss the Chelsea FCF Soccer Academy or the Rafael Nadal Tennis Centre. Dine on the terrace of your lavish, individually appointed suite, or choose from a host of Michelin-starred restaurants.
Virtuoso travellers receive:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Full Breakfast for all guests
$100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Italy
Italy welcomes spring in full swing in May, perfect for cultural exploration. Wander through Rome’s Trastevere, bike through Tuscan vineyards surrounded by lush greenery, and sail along the rugged Amalfi Coast before the summer heat.
Step back in time to the 17th century at Fonteverde, a Tuscan resort and spa in the Siena hills. The villa was built by the Medici family on precious hot springs that are known for their therapeutic properties. In timeless Tuscany, take time to explore the surroundings and experience the exclusive Tuscan Route offers: winetasting in prestigious wineries; sampling olive oil, pecorino cheese, and truffles in farmhouses; and sightseeing in Perugia, Siena, or Montepulciano by vintage car. Spa lovers can enjoy the healing hot springs, which are the foundation of the resort’s innovative Equilibrium wellness philosophy and programs.
Virtuoso travellers receive:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
$100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay
For stays 3 nights or more, guests will also recieve:
Complementary lunch for up to two guests, once during stay (excluding alcohol, taxes and gratuities)
One complimentary back and neck massage (20 minutes)
Early Check-in / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Malaysia
May brings dry weather to Malaysia’s East Coast, making it perfect for exploration. Dive in Sipadan’s waters, visit Perhentian Islands for snorkeling, and experience Terengganu’s traditional culture.
Give in to wanderlust at Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, located on miles of pristine beaches. Choose from among 108 airy rooms with wraparound balconies, stand-alone villas with private plunge pools, or expansive residences offering every conceivable amenity. Join a foodie tour in Johor Bahruâs Old Town or naturalist-led cruise through the mangroves of Belungkor Forest, then cool off in the infinity-edge pool before a traditional Malay spa treatment and romantic beachfront dinner by torchlight.
Virtuoso travellers receive:
Upgrade at time of booking, subject to availability
Daily Buffet breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
$100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay
Morocco
Morocco offers mild temperatures for city and desert adventures in May. Wander through Marrakech’s Jardin Majorelle, trek the Atlas Mountains with blooming flora, and explore the ancient city of Fes with comfortable temperatures.
The Royal Mansour Marrakech welcomes guests in exquisite fashion. The resort has 53 elegant riads (Moroccan-style homes) with interior gardens, ranging from 1,600 to 22,000 square feet in size and featuring countless bolts of silk and brocade, antique furnishings, handmade mosaic tiles, and intricate woodwork. Twisting alleyways lead to tranquil Andalusian courtyards and a serene 27,000-square-foot spa.
Virtuoso travellers receive:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability (from Superior 1bdr to Premier 1bdr)
Daily Full Breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served via Room Service
$100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay
Monaco
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Experience the serene post-spring ambiance of Monaco in May. Visit the Prince’s Palace in tranquil surroundings, try your luck at the Casino de Monte-Carlo with fewer visitors, and enjoy a leisurely walk in Princess Antoinette Park as nature flourishes.
Just 15 minutes by car from Monaco and Nice, Hotel Royal Riviera occupies a plum spot on the Cap-Ferrat peninsula, overlooking Provençal gardens terraced down to the sparkling Mediterranean. Exuding the privacy of an exclusive villa, the hotel features contemporary guest rooms on the main buildingâs first two floors. Experience Villa Orangerie, with its 14 guest rooms and two suites, each with a terrace or balcony. La Table du Royal restaurant is as inspiring as its name suggests, offering tantalizing Provençal flavors and stunning views. Active types will enjoy waterskiing, the outdoor heated swimming pool, and the private sandy beach.
Virtuoso travellers receive:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Buffet breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
$100 USD equivalent in local currency Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay
Norway
May brings spring blooms and extended daylight to Norway. Hike Trolltunga with clear paths, cruise through Geirangerfjord surrounded by lush greenery, and explore Oslo’s Viking Ship Museum with extended daylight hours.
With a rich history, recent renovation, and guest list that ranges from Arctic explorers to British royalty, the Britannia Hotel is the place to stay in Trondheim. Enjoy modern gastronomy at the Michelin-starred Speilsalen, invigorating scrubs and soothing treatments in the spa, and rooms and suites (there is 233 total) featuring luxurious beds by HĂ€stens, stylish marble bathrooms, and fully stocked minibars. Some even come with a private wine cellar and vintage grand piano.
Virtuoso travellers receive:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
$100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay
Peru
May marks the dry season in Peru, offering diverse adventures. Trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with clear skies, explore the Amazon rainforest as wildlife is active, and visit the ancient Nazca Lines in optimal conditions.
One of the hotels of the First Climate Positive HotelBrand in the world, this intimate Andean village with 83 casitas is tucked away in the Machu Picchu cloud forest, with stunning views of exquisite natural beauty. In-house Ă la carte excursions lead guests to explore the mega-biodiversity within hotel grounds, which includes 214 bird species, the worldâs largest native orchid collection (372 species), a bear rescue center, and a tea plantation under the shade. The Unu Spa has a mystical Andean approach, and the first-class restaurants, which face the rumbling Vilcanota River, share the secrets of Peruvian cuisine with a contemporary twist.
Spain
Spain comes alive in May with festivals and pleasant temperatures. Attend Feria de Abril in Seville with vibrant celebrations, hike the Camino de Santiago with comfortable temperatures, and unwind on the beaches of Costa Brava before the summer crowds.
Located less than a 2-hour drive from Madrid, this restored abbey is majestically set on 500 acres of vineyards. The heart of the estate is its award-winning winery; its soul, the ancient 12th century Romanesque abbey, a Spanish cultural heritage site. The intimate resort with just 30 guestrooms offers full butler service. Refectorio, the abbeyâs original dining hall, is now a Michelin-starred restaurant. Guests enjoy well-being at the Santuario Wellness & Spa, Spainâs first spa sommelier. An array of curated experiences around wine, gastronomy, nature, art and wellness immerse guests inmmerse in the spirit and style of LeDomaine.
Virtuoso travellers receive:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily A La Carte Breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in Hotel restaurant
$100 USD equivalent Spa Services credit per room to be utilized during stay.
Complimentary Spa Sommelier experience included when booking any Massage Ritual treatment, for up to two guests per room
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Weâre exploring the vastness and the contrasts of the African sub-continent this week, featuring six ways to engage with wonderful places, experiences and cultures we think youâll adoreâŠ
Sterrekopje, Franschhoek, South Africa
So, itâs not a hotel â theyâre emphatic about that â but this is certainly a place where youâll relax and unwind entirely, while reconnecting to nature and food so fresh that it could have been harvested just minutes before you tuck in. Sterrekopje is a remote farm nestling in the foothills of the Franschhoek mountains, where over many years the natural balance of the land has been restored and cherished to make it as fertile and sustainable as possible. The biodiverse abundance means 100 different items of fresh produce are grown on-site, miles away from anywhere. Youâll be staying in an elegantly comfortable farmhouse or one of the cottages enfolded by lush nature, and while you enjoy the sanctuary youâll be reconnecting with your soul â and looking forward to another leisurely dinner under the stars.
Eagle Island Lodge, Okavango Delta, Botswana
There are few places to match the Okavango Delta wetlands to experience a magical and satisfying safari. Itâs at its very best from May to September â so think about your trip next year, maybe â when you can glide silently through the natural water channels in a traditional-style canoe, with hippos wallowing either side of you and sea eagles soaring above. This Belmond lodge, is, as you might expect, on its own private island, and the dozen beautiful tented rooms have high ceilings, huge beds and their own plunge pools. They have privacy and wonderful outlooks in equal measure. By staying here youâll be helping projects to harmlessly separate local livestock from endangered local predators, and to save Africaâs wild dogs.
Virtuoso travelers receive:
For 2023:
Daily Full Breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom
Private dining experience for up to two guests once during stay, served on the balcony of your room or at a private location within the lodge (must have minimum value of $100 USD equivalent)
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Serra Cafema, Kaokoland, Namibia
Itâs not just animals that are rare, fascinating and in need of traveller support; itâs people too. Namibiaâa Himba are some of this stunning countryâs last semi-nomads. This is their wide-ranging home, an untouched wilderness of silent deserts and rushing rivers where they have learned to adapt to life alongside everything from oryx and tiny chameleons to crocodiles and zebra. Staying here helps to maintain and protect the delicate balance between all of Serra Cafemaâs inhabitants. In exchange, youâll return each day from all kinds of guided safaris â boat, walking, even quad-biking â to sultry luxury in one of eight suites built from wood, canvas and thatch, with elevated decks to watch the orangeness of the sinking sun intensify⊠having put away a hearty and local supper.
andBeyond Bateleur Camp, Masai Mara, Kenya
Reflecting the ambience of 1920s and 1930s classic Kenyan safaris, andBeyond Bateleur Camp boasts luxurious safari tents complete with private butler service, ceiling fans and spacious ensuite bathrooms. In close proximity to where the famous final scene of âOut of Africaâ was filmed, this magnificent camp is set on a private concession allowing one to explore by day or night, on foot or in a vehicle in the company of your expert safari guide. In the late afternoon, head out in open safari vehicles, and in the evenings have an exclusive experience, a night safari which offers an opportunity to seek out nocturnal wildlife.
Virtuoso travelers receive:
For 2022:
Upgrade not applicable for this property
Daily breakfast (included in rates)
A uniquely and authentic welcome gift on arrival
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Victoria Falls River Lodge, Zambezi, Zimbabwe
So close to the Victoria Falls that you can see the mist thrown up by that tumbling crescendo of water, youâll be staying on Khandahar Island with epic views of the Zambesi river⊠and you can only get there by boat. Nature teems around you both in the water and on land, where wild elephants spend their days semi-oblivious to the admirers close by. Accommodation is in a series of specially-built treehouse suites, connected by wooden walkways to the lounge, dining area and sunset bar, and the levels of luxury are splendid. The ultimate stay is in one of the two Starbed Treehouses, built spectacularly over two levels above the tree-tops. Not one for the under-16s, mind.
Virtuoso travelers receive:
For 2023:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom
Complimentary 50-minute massage per person, for up to two guests per room, once during stay (must have minimum value of $100 USD equivalent)
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Kisawa Sanctuary, Vilanculos, Mozambique
Home to some of the richest subtropical ecosystems, Kisawa Sanctuaryâs mission is to bring wilderness and well-being together. Feel the healing energies of the island with a complimentary welcome treatment or therapeutic massage ritual. Savor fresh ingredients sourced from farmers and fishermen within the Inhambane province. And stay in one of the 11 secluded residences, each with a private beach, infinity pool, and open-air deck overlooking the resortâs dreamy 300-hectare property.
Virtuoso travelers receive:
For 2023:
Daily A la carte breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the Main Terrace restaurant
$100 USD equivalent in local currency Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
One additional 60-minutes spa treatment, for two persons, during the stay (one is already included in the Kisawa guest experience for all guests)
Early check-in / Late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Request a Callback
Please enter your phone number and we will give you a call.
If there’s one place in the world that stretches the imagination, takes game-viewing to the next level and has championed conservation to ensure long-term low-carbon development, the call to Botswana is a must for wildlife lovers and promises wide-eyed wonder. From the dry savanna of the Kalahari desert and Makgadikgadi salt pan to the rain-ripe Zambezian grasslands, lush marshlands and secluded waterways of the Okavango Delta, the stage is set for spontaneous adventure and exceptional beauty. Twitchers will delight in the unique birding paradise of the Delta, which provides safe shelter for 24 species of globally threatened birds and has recorded over 450 species at this refuge. The fragility of this watery oasis is teeming with wildlife, and the battle for survival is on full display for those who make the privileged journey within.
Weâre exploring the vastness and the contrasts of the African sub-continent this week, featuring six ways to engage with wonderful places, experiences and cultures we think youâll adoreâŠ
