Welcome to the Bulgari! This stunning entryway is created from volcanic stone and rich exotic woods.

Set within the volcanic stone walls of the resort, each villa is similar in size and layout but each room category offers better and better views (unless you plan to stay in the two-story, 10,000 sq foot Bulgari Villa). Rich mahogany woods and luxurious furnishings create a warm and calming environment with sweeping views. Contained privately within garden walls, each villa offers contemporary elegance in both indoor and outdoor spaces combining modern with traditional design.

My living room for four incredible days.

After a long flight, there is nothing better than a spa treatment at the Bulgari Spa. Each treatment room overlooks the Indian Ocean and spa gardens.

Relax.

Do I feel like taking a shower indoors or outdoors today, or maybe a bath instead? Bulgari’s signature bath products were yet another reason to indulge.

My bathroom!

Each day we anxiously rushed home from our day of activities, hoping we wouldn’t miss the fire-bright sunlit sky. I snapped this photo from my balcony just before the sun went down.

I grabbed my camera just in time.

And no trip is complete without at least five multi-course tasting menus. After all, it’s important to make sure every single dish is perfect. And even though the gourmet food and drinks were delicious, my favorite meal was the $2 “Babi Guling,” suckling pig slow roasted with garlic, chili, and ginger, over white rice.

Dining al fresco, a wonderful way to start the day

Please contact us if you’re interested in a trip to Bali. While we may just recommend spending your days at the Bulgari completely relaxing at the hotel, there are so many places to see and things to learn about their wonderful culture. From the Green School, a school that redefines learning with a refreshing and effective approach that strives to foster a generation of responsible global citizens; to Big Tree Farms Chocolate factory, where you can enjoy classes and lectures; to learning the art of Balinese wood carving; or participating in a local cremation or wedding, we’re here to make sure your trip is as cultural fulfilling as it is luxurious.

Robyn

iHola Colombia!

Equipped with a brilliant Caribbean coast, seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, a buzzing capital city, a pulsing culinary scene, and the wild Amazon rainforest, Colombia is packed with diversity. But for all its history, Colombia actually feels fresh because it’s being seen for the first time by so many, giving it a youthful energy that fits in perfectly with the bright striking vistas you take in around every bend in Cartagena’s narrow cobbled streets or the electric green hillsides of the Cocora Valley. We couldn’t get enough of this stunning country not yet lost to swarms of tour buses. Colombia is as charming as it gets.

A handful of reasons why you will love Colombia as much as we did:

Colombia is close!

Our world is packed with thrilling travel experiences, but few are as close and as authentic as Colombia.  The capital city of Bogotá is just a 5.5 hour flight from New York City and there is a direct 2.5 hour flight from Miami to Cartagena.  Many people don’t realize that Colombia is just as close as her popular neighbors Aruba and Costa Rica. Plus, it’s in the same time zone as New York City, meaning no jet lag and more time to enjoy every minute of this lively country so few have considered.

We loved this dramatic paper dress in one of Colombia's stunning villas!

Simple pleasures

There is not a simple pleasure in the world that compares to sipping coconut water straight from a young coconut!  When we were taking a break from replenishing our Vitamin D in the afternoon sunshine or capping off a perfect day of hiking through lush jungle by gazing into star-studded skies, we unapologetically indulged in the local fruit as we smiled ear to ear.

Indulging! Tayrona National Park

Cartagena

No trip to Colombia is complete without a visit to Cartagena. Anyone lucky enough to find themselves in the picturesque old city must dedicate one day to wandering her narrow streets, no place in particular to go, just stopping wherever tickles your fancy.  Taste test the local vendors’ street side specialties before trying on that Panama Hat at the corner store (we couldn’t resist, as you can see!).  Marvel at the vibrant colors at every turn, but don’t forget to take in the city’s architectural treasures like the San Felipe Fortress.  Stop to chat (en español) with the locals about two of their most revered Colombians, famed painter Fernando Botero and venerated writer Gabriel García Márquez . And watch how as the sun goes down, Cartagena warms up; drink a Maracuyá Mojito or Club Colombia (the local beer) with the locals before, during, and after dinner to unwind before putting on your dancing shoes to salsa the night away!  The culture and historic sites may be a reason you head to Colombia, but a sultry night on the town will certainly be one of the top reasons you return.

The narrow cobbled streets of Cartagena at night

Culinary Adventures

The fresh juices alone are reason enough for me to plan my return trip to Colombia. Add the local delicacies like cazuelas, sopa de mondongo, maracuyá, limonada de coco, langoustine ceviche, arroz con coco, and sancocho and you officially have a foodie’s dream destination.  We will never forget our walk through La Plaza de Mercado de Basurto with our culinary guide for the day, Jorge Escandon. A ceviche master whose fame skyrocketed overnight after Anthony Bourdain requested Jorge to be his Colombian food guru, he was the perfect host. We were honored to have the opportunity to explore the local markets that feed most of Cartagena with this connected insider. Prepping lunch back at his seaside home was quite possibly one of the most fulfilling days of my life (emphasis on the filling!).

Jorge and Katie explore the Basurto Market, taste testing fruits along the way!

Dramatic Landscapes

After sipping your morning “tinto” (black coffee) at your hacienda, head out for a hike through the Cocora Valley.  We promise you will never witness a landscape quite like it; dramatic towering wax palm trees up to 200 feet tall dot the vibrant green hillsides. When your legs need a break, make sure to give the local specialty a try (cheese dipped in your coffee or hot chocolate).

Quindian Wax Palms grow to a staggering 200 feet tall!

For curious travelers seeking something they haven’t experienced before, consider Colombia. Go for its charisma, its authenticity, and its Jugo de Lulo (best juice we’ve ever tasted, hands down). You will probably be the first of your friends to have a Colombia stamp in your passport, but you better hurry up…  discerning travelers who have already been there are probably already planning their trip back with their friends (we are). Colombia is teetering on the brink of being recognized as something fabulous. It certainly should be.

Reach out to Absolute Travel’s South America Specialist, Brooke Garnett, to chat more about our brand spanking new Colombia programs and stay tuned to learn more about Colombia in our upcoming e-newsletter!

Katie & Brooke

Tswalu's meerkats put on an excellent show for my daughter, Vesper!

Living in one of the most beautiful cities in the world (Capetown!) is already a huge privilege, but having easy access to remote places like the Kalahari Desert is a major plus. So last week I decided to take my little family on an(other) impromptu adventure, this time to Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve. Tswalu is renowned in the conservation world, recently commended by The Economist for its wildlife conservation practices. “Our aim is to restore the Kalahari to itself” says Tswalu’s owner, Nicky Oppenheimer. Trust me–you don’t want to miss it.

Tswalu Private Game Reserve

Plus, getting there is simple. After a short drive to the ExecuJet Lounge at Capetown airport, we were quickly escorted to our two-hour scenic flight over the Kalahari Desert. Already an excellent start; our two-year-old daughter Vesper’s eyes were glued on the wilderness below from takeoff to landing. Before we knew it we were being welcomed by Adrian our ranger and David our tracker with cold ice tea and a big smile! This was easily the most stress-free way to get to the bush I have ever experienced in all my 100+ trips.

It was fabulous to be back in the bush!

As we hopped in our open-air vehicle for the 25 minute drive to Motse Lodge, we were reminded of the San Bushmen who have called the land home for centuries. Everywhere we looked were sightings of Oryx, Tsessebe and Giraffe. We knew we were in for a treat, but we had no clue just how mesmerized by Tswalu we would become. Black-Maned Kalahari Lions, check. The elusive Aardvark, check. Aardwolfs, check.  Harmann’s Mountain Zebra, Cape Cobra, Giant Ground Gecko, Eastern Clapper Lark, Orange River Francolin, Cape Fox, check, check, check. A wildlife enthusiast’s dream.

Vesper was all smiles at Tswalu!

As if that was not enough, the days at Tswalu were filled with incredible sunsets, horseback safaris, dune dinners, late night drives, and the ultimate Kalahari experience: private time with a colony of Meerkats! We had the rare opportunity to have an undisturbed glimpse at their kingdom. The look on Vesper’s face throughout that experience was reason enough to go back. The conservation and research efforts at Tswalu mean that Tswalu’s meerkat colonies are unaffected by close encounters, allowing guests an extraordinary opportunity to witness their charming up close and personal. Amazing!

Horseback safari at Tswalu

As if the natural world at Tswalu is not enough, let me add a touch of glamour to the whole picture: Tswalu is where famed photographer Annie Leibovitz photographed U2 lead-singer Bono and his wife, Ali, for the Louis Vuitton Core Values Campaign. Have I said enough!?

Bono and Ali Hewston photographed for Louis Vuitton's Core Values campaign

Tswalu has now made my Top Five List of favorite places in Southern Africa. It’s a brilliant destination for children and the whole family, but also creates the perfect luxury safari or romantic safari honeymoon. If my experience at Tswalu sparked your interest, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Find more photos from our adventure on Absolute Travel’s Facebook page!

On October 13th, Absolute Travel welcomed Papua New Guinea to our neck of the woods. Needless to say, it was not a typical day at the office. An afternoon spent designing custom, luxury journeys was replaced with traditional New Guinea dance lessons in front of Cipriani’s Downtown and planning webinars was forsaken for wide-eyed window shopping along West Broadway with our guests, Wigman Oberia and Mudman Kaleno. Later that evening, we hosted an intimate party to share this special glimpse into Papua New Guinea at a chic SoHo loft with 75 of our closest friends. It was an unforgettable evening of discovery, New York City style! The festivities were topped off by adventuring through Times Square and NYC’s upscale Core Club. Not exactly the activities Oberia and Kaleno are accustomed to in their daily lives back home! Here are a few of our favorite moments with our new friends from their stay earlier this month.

With a network of personal relationships across the globe, Absolute Travel connects clients with people who are our friends, not strangers from a guide book. Pictured, Wigman Oberia and Mudman Kaleno prep before taking on the SoHo streets while staffer Noël Gilbert gets her paparazzi on! They were pleased that most of their traditional garb got through customs, but they did need some extra greenery for their grass skirts which they found at the Chelsea Market!

Billed as the South Pacific’s Final Frontier, Papua New Guinea beckons travelers seeking a refreshingly authentic experience in a country packed with natural wonders and cultural diversity (Papua New Guinea is the size of California with 820 indigenous languages). It’s truly like no place else on earth. The same has been said for New York City, the “no place on earth part” at least, which is why we loved bringing the two together for the ultimate juxtaposition. This image of Wigman Oberia is an Absolute Travel favorite; we love the contrast of Oberia’s wig and hornbill necklace with the cab in the background which gives it a full-blown downtown vibe! Barefoot and barely there outfits, they were a bit chilly, but their energy and excitement for New York City overshadowed their goosebumps!

We were thrilled to have the opportunity to bring together old and new friends for a rare glimpse into Papua New Guinea. Staffer Noël Gilbert’s photographs decorated the room giving the space a rustic feel, while Oberia and Kaleno mingled with the crowd, charming everyone in the room! It was truly an evening of discovery and we’re confident every single guest left feeling a child-like excitement about the adventure, and their new friends.

A very special guest Alistair Ballantine from Oberoi Hotels & Resorts shares a photograph from his visit to Papua New Guinea over twenty years ago! We loved hearing about his adventurous stories, told with cheerful abandon and a big smile. His travel experiences to Papua New Guinea all began with “I remember the time when…” – making us appreciate the power of travel that much more. It never leaves you.

Next stop: Core Club for an insider’s look at midtown’s swanky side followed by the quintessential New York City adventure: Times Square.

We’ve sent our travelers to Papua New Guinea’s lowlands and highlands for over a decade. The destination is an intrepid traveler’s fantasy – and an experience very few have had. Please get in touch with Noël Gilbert to learn more about her time in the region and learn more about this one-of-a-kind destination.

Leymah Gbowee, the heart behind Liberia's transformation

Often times after returning from an Absolute Travel trip our clients come back compelled to do something. We agree, and find digging deeper during our travels truly gives us the gift of compassion while also enriching our connection to a country and its people. That’s why since 1989 we have been creating life-changing trips that stick with our clients long after they have touched back down on familiar ground. But we’re up to much more than just designing incredible journeys. We pride ourselves in serving the places we love all around the world and uniting the elements of global awareness, kindness, and education through travel; providing our clients with unique and transformative opportunities through our network of local connections and giving people the opportunity to learn firsthand of the challenges our world faces and how to work with the local people to influence change. 

We’re honored to work alongside American Jewish World Service (AJWS), supporting their meaningful work on the ground to empower people throughout the world to achieve justice and self-sufficiency through the promotion of human rights, education, economic development, healthcare and sustainable agriculture by facilitating donor trips to their project including Ghana, Bolivia, and Ethiopia. But an upcoming trip to Liberia in June 2012 may be our most significant trip with them yet. Absolute Travel’s General Manager, Leslie Overton, says, “From global poverty to gender issues, American Jewish World Service is on the frontlines to create change and make an impact on an international level. What strikes me in particular about their work is the dedication to visit their causes on-site to learn about the issues firsthand, in person. Absolute Travel is honored to be a link in the process.”

Although the literal translation of Liberia means “Country of the free”, Liberia unfortunately has not lived up to its name. But after recovering from a gruesome civil war and decades of human right exploitations, Liberia is pulling her head up high.  With the first female president of Africa and peace warriors such as Leymah Gbowee, Liberian women are working tirelessly to learn from their complicated history and move forward. Joining AJWS in Liberia will be a profound experience for women seeking to witness Liberia’s female-led transformation. Leymah Gbowee is the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize winner and director of AJWS grantee, Women Peace and Security Network-Africa.  Her work in part motivated this inspirational journey for women, which will include insight into the many sides of Monrovia and compelling discussions with social activists.

We are committed to AJWS and are incredibly proud of our partnership. Contact Absolute Travel general manager, Leslie Overton, if you would like to observe the transformation of a country from peril to more peaceful times with AJWS and Leymah Gbowee.

We traveled from JFK via luxury floating hotel (aka Business Class on Qatar Airways). Somewhere in-between changing into my “jammies”, sipping Champagne, and indulging in Godiva chocolates I arrived in Thailand where smiling locals, sunshine, and sweet mango settled me right back into summer.

My journey begins in style!

As if the warm breeze and flight over wasn’t enough to plaster a permanent smile on my face, we ended our journey at the Banyan Tree Samui; a sanctuary of luxury villas built into the rocky landscape overlooking a postcard-worthy beach. After soaking in the views from the main entrance, I was whisked away by buggy and taken to my exclusive Garden Pool Villa. Between taking advantage of my villa’s amenities (particularly a dip in the private plunge pool matching the length of my spacious villa!) I indulged in the resort’s award-winning spa. After an hour of hydrothermal therapies in the Rainforest — Koh Samui’s only hydrotherapy facility and an experience unique to the Banyan Tree Samui — I was in full relaxation mode and ready to take complete advantage of the wellness facilities offered by the resort.

Contemplating jumping into my private pool located directly ahead!

My wellness adventure began with enjoying a fitness smoothie at the pool bar. The Coconut Paradise hit the spot; a refreshing and hydrating option for a hot summer day or perfect for replenishing after a sweaty workout.  Not to mention, it’s very easy to make (aside from the cutting open of the young coconut!).  This was too good not to bring home from Thailand and share, so here you go:

Recipe: Coconut Paradise
1 young coconut
6 ounces of natural yogurt
3 Tablespoons Sugar (or as much as desired)
2 cups Ice

Directions: Carefully cut open coconut and pour coconut water into a cup. Pour liquid from cup into blender along with yogurt, sugar, and ice. Blend for 30 seconds. Pour blended drink back into coconut (this step is important), sip and smile.

Coconut Paradise: Sip & Smile

In keeping with the wellness theme, on my final day in Samui I enjoyed a sunrise yoga class with one of the most talented instructors I have ever had the honor of practicing with. He led a challenging sequence blending Vinyasa and Ashtanga and his morning flow inspired me to do a bit of self-practice on a ledge above the main pool!

Handstand split on the ledge of Banyan's infinity pool

Koh Samui is the perfect locale for those seeking to relax and restore, and the Banyan Tree Samui is an excellent choice for wellness-focused travelers. If my experience in Koh Samui sparked your interest, stay tuned for the launch of our new Wellness Journeys, and please feel free to contact me anytime with questions regarding Koh Samui, Banyan Tree Samui, or for inspiration for your next wellness adventure!

 -Jessica

The Japanese were the most gracious hosts I could have asked for

Watermelons²

This is no ordinary watermelon. This is a symbol of the creative energy and brilliance that goes into every detail of life in Japan. Much more than a cute and unusual tasty treat, they are actually grown out of necessity. Over a decade ago Japanese farmers from the southern town of Zentsuji began to cultivate square watermelons by growing them in a glass box due to the lack of space in Japan. By growing them in a square shape, the melons are much easier to stack and ship, resulting in a more efficient transport. But more than a savvy solution to a space issue, the fruit embodies the thought, dedication, and attention that the Japanese put into everything, including their visitors. I couldn’t have asked for more gracious hosts, typified by my first purchase – a watermelon, hand wrapped and tied with a decorative bow! Only in Japan.

Only in Japan...

Memoirs of a Geisha…Dinner

Next stop: Kanazawa, a quaint city on the seat of the Sea of Japan and bordered by the Japanese Alps. But it wasn’t my day of exploring the region’s stunning natural sites that will stick with me the most, the real highlight for me was my dinner experience that evening. After meeting the Mayor of Kanazawa, we were whisked away into a private dining room overlooking a beautiful little garden. An incredible kaiseki dinner followed, which was only slightly overshadowed by the two beautiful Geishas that accompanied us for the entire meal. Literally translated as “arts person”, they are women trained in traditional Japanese arts of the highest regard. A true Geisha lives by her art at every moment, not just when entertaining. Between a seemingly endless assortment of delicious food, sake, and traditional Japanese tunes, applauds of “kompaii!” (cheers!) filled the air making for an unforgettable evening and another of many instances I was blown away by the graciousness and hospitality of the people.

A true Geisha lives by her art at every moment, not just when entertaining

Love me Tender

Sundays in Tokyo are the perfect time to wander through its many neighborhoods and dig a little deeper into what makes this city such a complex and fascinating place. I quickly learned that just as New Yorkers are drawn to Central Park for a leisurely stroll and people watching, Tokyo’s Yoyogi Park offers a similar haven for the Japanese. The expansive open spaces surrounded by towering skyscrapers reminded me of home, but even living in New York did not prepare me for the “Dancing Elvis” phenomenon I encountered. These guys (and girls!) put on their Sunday best, gather in the park with a boombox and some beers and dance the day away. With rockabilly music playing at full blast, they worked the crowd with their dance moves, showing the world that Tokyoites know how to have a good time.

The unifying power of music!

Onsen Tamago: An Unexpected Delicacy

There are always a few moments when traveling when the comforts of home come a-calling. Breakfast, for me, is one of the hardest things to adjust to and for this reason a western breakfast is standard fare; specifically for me it’s bagel, lox and cream cheese. So when in Rome (or rather Japan), a traditional breakfast might seem a bit off-putting. But, if I may offer a little bit of advice: dive right in and you will be pleasantly surprised! This particular breakfast was served at the Araya Totoan Ryokan in Yamashiro and consisted of a lavish spread of simple but thoughtful small dishes. Pickled vegetables, rice, miso soup, broiled fish and the standout – a perfectly cooked soft boiled egg. This was no standard egg though; rich and delicate in the best way possible, it was easily the best egg I have ever had (quite a badge considering my love of all things food). After inquiring if it were possible to order this at every meal (half-jokingly), I learned my new culinary obsession was an onsen tamago which directly translates to “hot spring egg”. Select eggs are cooked in baskets submerged in the constant temperatures of the Japanese hot springs the area is so famous for. My poppy seed bagel cravings were history.

I can't believe I ate the entire thing!

If you would like to see more of my photographs from Japan, please visit our Facebook page. And please don’t hesitate to contact me directly if you would like to discuss a visit!
- Aaron Levitt

Captain Lisa on the Mekong River!

Cambodia, off the beaten Angkor path

Cambodia’s Khmer temples are breathtaking, certainly one of the most captivating sights in all of Asia. It’s almost unthinkable that for centuries, Angkor’s towers were hidden from most of the world, slowly engulfed by the jungle. These days they are mostly engulfed by tourists. For my third visit to Cambodia, I wanted to see another side of the temple complex, away from the tourist crowds of Angkor Wat. A ninety-minute drive later, I arrived at Beng Mealea, an amazing temple complex that remains largely unrestored with much less vistors. Huge piles of broken blocks lie scattered throughout the grounds, while trees and vines ran freely up the walls of its towers and courtyards, giving this UNESCO World Heritage Site an otherworldly façade. There were no signs, ropes or handrails. Good thing that I wore my sturdy shoes to clamber over the rocky ruins! Nearby is Phnom Kulen, a national park where a climb of 100 steps brings you to its 1,000 lingas (phallic representations of the Hindu god Shiva) carved into the riverbed below, two waterfalls, and a reclining Buddha statue.  This day excursion from Siem Reap is perfect for travelers seeking adventure and variety while exploring.

Avoid Angkor's crowds at Beng Mealea

The allure of Laos

The city of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Cultural site, was once considered “the best-preserved city in Southeast Asia,” and they are working hard to keep it that way.  Whether we were unwinding with a refreshing iced coffee with coconut milk or luxuriating at one of the Amantaka’s refreshing pools, we still found that the city retained the charm and tranquility of this small sleepy town filled with over 30 temples.  But one of my favorite experiences in Laos was a 45 minute drive outside of Luang Prabang at the Kuang Si Falls. The beautiful three-tiered waterfalls were stunning, particularly during rainy season. The natural swimming holes were a lovely turquoise color, providing the perfect place for us to cool down from the summer heat and humidity.

My boyfriend greets the Kuang Si Falls in Laos

Another side of Bangkok

On my fifth visit to Bangkok, I wanted to dig deeper, beyond boat trips on the Chao Phraya River and Buddhist temples, and touring Bangkok with our team provided me with one of my most memorable and special experiences of this incredible city! I highly recommend a customized after-hours excursion with us in the City of Angels, packed with out-of-the-ordinary experiences matched to your particular interests. Perhaps you’d fancy a walk through the Arab quarter, to feel as if you have been transported to a bustling corner in Cairo with kebab shops, hookah cafes and women veiled in black from head to toe. Or, take a behind the scenes walk through the wholesale flower and produce market – which surprisingly is quite active and busy through the night.  Stop at a rooftop bar for a nightcap while enjoying the evening glow of the city’s superb monuments.  Or maybe you’d care for some Bangkok jazz instead? Thailand’s top acts play almost nightly at the Saxophone nightclub. After many visits to Bangkok over the past decade, this visit made me realize why Bangkok is so amazing, and one of my top favorite cities in the world once again. Certainly one of the highlights of our trip – you must see for yourself!

Taking in Tokyo (from the tallest tower in the world)

I made a quick stopover in Tokyo where it is business as usual; Japan is safe!  Make sure to look out for the new Tokyo Sky Tree: a broadcasting, restaurant and observation tower, currently the tallest tower in the world. Its observatory deck will be open to the public by summer 2012 to catch panoramic views of Tokyo’s sprawling metropolis below.

Intrigued by Lisa’s discoveries in Asia? Contact Lisa Sun to learn more.

Just like our honeymooners, no two trips are alike
Every Absolute Travel journey is curated and researched based on the personality and interests of our travelers. No two trips are alike and our ideas of romantic bliss are as different as, well, we are. Whether your ideal getaway involves unwinding with a glass of Malbec and cozy fire for two in Argentina; embarking on a heart-pounding safari while staying in the most fabulous properties imaginable in South Africa; or simply relaxing on a hammock while taking in the Balinese sunset, Absolute Travel wants to help build your version of the ideal once-in-a-lifetime journey for two, ensuring your experience is seamless, authentic, and exceeds your expectations.

Choose from our diverse portfolio of destinations and insider access experiences for a snooze-free honeymoon

We are passionate, experienced and opinionated about travel
Our recommendations are honest and straightforward and the people with whom we connect you across the globe are our friends, not strangers from a guide book. We will provide you with private access and special experiences to color your journey and handpick the properties across the globe where you don’t have to think twice about relaxing and just being yourself.

“Where will we be especially welcomed?”
Although Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Vermont, and Washington DC welcome same-sex marriages, unfortunately this is not the reality everywhere. Luckily, Absolute Travel has been circling the globe for years to find the most welcoming destinations and properties for gay travelers. Our top country picks: Argentina and South Africa have already recognized same-sex marriage and have all the fittings for an idyllic honeymoon. Bali, Thailand, and Brazil are also brilliant honeymoon destinations.

Rodney and Shaun, the delightful owners of Jamala Madikwe Royal Safari Lodge

Our property picks
Brazil: The Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro is a perfect match for honeymooners with its warm staff, sexy rooftop pool, pulsing nightlife and perfect location on Ipanema beach near chic shopping and buzzing cafes. Zank Boutique Hotel in Salvador is another standout, a colonial-style mansion oozing with spectacularly-designed rooms, seaside views and a luxurious spa.

South Africa: South Africa is packed with fabulous properties that make couples look at each other in giddy disbelief. The Jamala Madikwe Royal Safari Lodge falls in that category. Run by charming couple, Shaun and Rodney, honeymooners will feel right at home (a Ralph Lauren-esque safari home at that) while taking in the wildlife hanging out nearby their private plunge pool. Add a few days at the fabulous La Residence in the winelands and Cape Town’s chic Kensington Place and you’re guaranteed a trip of a lifetime.

Thailand: Your honeymoon begins in Bangkok at the all-suite Lebua at State Tower. Share a private moment on your spacious balcony taking in the stunning views of the city before riding the elevator up to the Sky Bar at Sirocco, one of the world’s highest and chicest open air bars. Next, head to the beach and leave the world behind at the Aleenta Phuket - Phang Nga Resort and Spa. This new luxury boutique combines sophisticated style with a fantastic beach location and sprawling sea views. Their private Pool Villas are our top pick for honeymooners—no worries about getting tan lines here!

Exclusive seaside views at Aleenta Phuket - Phang Nga Resort and Spa

Traveling forms an unmatchable bond
From the minute you say “I do” to your return home, Absolute Travel will be working hard to ensure your journey is packed with special moments to cherish for a lifetime together. We are the first to tell you that traveling connects people like nothing else, and we’re certain our deluxe honeymoons will provide you with stories to enrich your lives for years to come.

Just let us know what your dream honeymoon entails; we will handle the rest.

Chorizo, lomo, bondiola, vaca, ojo de bife, chinculin, mollejas, morcilla. And that was just one meal. Empanadas, tamales, dolce de leche, ceviche. The list can go on and on. To say that my recent journey to Argentina was a gastronomical adventure does not do it justice. I milked cows, ate omelets made from eggs straight from the hens house, picked fresh vegetables for my meals, and created my very own wine blend.

Dairy farm 101

Food aside, Argentina is a wonderful destination from New York for a number of reasons. For one, flying on a direct overnight flight allows you to travel without losing any days, and if you sleep the way I do on a plane, you get a full nights rest and still feel right on schedule. Plus being that its the opposite season, making the trip during the thick of our winter doldrums is the very beginning of their autumn – the perfect respite of temperatures in the mid-70s, sunny days, and cool, crisp nights.

Another Wild Wild West

After meeting with the owners of El Colibri Estancia during their visit to Absolute Travel’s office I couldn’t wait to step foot on the property. My days were filled with bike rides at sunset through perfectly manicured polo fields, learning how to shear sheep using just a pair of scissors, and horseback riding through the 300 acres of farmland.

And the food! Our waiter laughed when my cousin and I ordered “one of everything,” at each meal, ensuring we could taste each dish. From fresh steak tartar, to a simple medley of garden fresh vegetables, everything we were served was innovative, simple, designed beautifully, and hit every taste bud. Rabbit ratatouille garnished with roasted red peppers and rosemary was a highlight, and ending each meal with fresh berries and homemade whipped cream was the perfect subtly sweet finish.

The Barber Shop at El Colibri Estancia

From Cordoba I traveled to Mendoza, where I toured different wineries, sampled olive oil that was cold pressed just feet away, and learned why a glass of Malbec in the afternoon (or several) truly makes you feel like you’re on vacation. For anyone going to this region, the trip will not be complete without an evening at Francis Mallman’s infamous restaurant, 1884. Tucked away at the end of a rather gritty nondescript road, once you arrive you immediately feel like you’ve discovered a hidden wonder. The façade of white brick crumbling walls led to a long entrance covered in vines and flowers. After passing through the tall glass and steel doors I immediately noticed the large chapa (cast-iron griddle), a clay outdoor oven and a parilla (barbecue grate) over hot coals and pieces of meat in all shapes and sizes being sprinkled with salt and pepper. Surprisingly, I went vegetarian that last night after almost a weeks’ worth of meat, and I was still blown away. Each simple dish embraced the idea of cooking with simplicity, using the best ingredients possible. Mallman utilizes every aspect of the fire from the flames to the hot ashes, so even my piece of grilled squash with toasted pinenuts and shaved parmesan was cooked to perfection.

Perfection at Francis Mallman’s restaurant, 1884

Next I traveled through the Northwest regions of Salta and Cafayate, driving through stunning mountainous roads and stopping along the way to marvel at the views. I learned the Torrontés grape produces a crisp clean white wine also known as “the liar” for its sweet smell but dry taste. And I relaxed at the beautiful House of Jasmines Hotel where I couldn’t stop taking pictures, hoping to replicate the décor in my own home.

House of Jasmines, Salta

The trip wouldn’t have been complete without a few days in Buenos Aires, filled with shopping, more food, and a couple of perfect nights at the Park Hyatt and Four Seasons. After just twelve days away I felt rejuvenated, relaxed, and very very full.

-Robyn