Last week in Las Vegas, myself, Kendall and Shanna were immersed in the world's premier luxury travel event, Virtuoso Travel Week. Think of it as our chance to go "shopping" for your next unforgettable journey. We spent the week in a whirlwind of meetings (293 total between us), connecting with the best hoteliers, tour operators, and cruise lines from across the globe.
For us as advisors, it's invaluable—it deepens our relationships, keeps us on the cutting edge of what's new and next, and allows us to gain the insider knowledge that makes a trip truly special.
For you, our clients, the benefits are even bigger. It means we return with a fresh perspective and a strengthened network, ready to unlock exclusive amenities, secure coveted upgrades, and craft the kind of personalized, intimate experiences that you simply can't find with an online search. We're back, inspired and ready to turn your travel dreams into reality, with every detail thoughtfully tailored just for you.
It's a truly thankless task trying to reduce Virtuoso Travel Week to a Top 5 highlight reel, but here goes.
Hotel: Malhadinha Nova, Portugal
The Meeting: John, with Marita, General Manager
Nestled in the sun-drenched, rolling plains of Portugal's Alentejo region, Malhadinha Nova is not just a hotel—it's an immersive world of its own. This is where rustic charm meets refined luxury, a place of quiet paradise where time slows down to the pace of the wind rustling through the olive groves. Guests are welcomed into a family-owned estate that feels less like a hotel and more like a private home, with thoughtfully designed suites and villas scattered across a vast, 1,000-acre property. With its own organic farm, celebrated winery, and a Michelin Green Star restaurant that serves farm-to-table cuisine, Malhadinha Nova offers a true feast for the senses. It’s a haven for those seeking a soulful retreat, a place to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature, all while being enveloped in an atmosphere of authentic, understated elegance.
Hotel: Andaz Maui
The Meeting/Cocktail: John Rees and Kendall Fletcher with Lisa and Vivian, Directors of Sales at Andaz Maui and Park Hyatt Vienna.
I tossed a coin between these 2 properties and Andaz Maui won!
On Maui's pristine Wailea coast, the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort offers a contemporary take on a Hawaiian escape. The resort's stunning open-air lobby immediately immerses you in a chic, relaxed atmosphere, with a series of cascading infinity pools at its heart. Direct access to Mokapu Beach allows for endless days of snorkeling and sunbathing, while the culinary scene, featuring the acclaimed Morimoto Maui, promises a feast for the senses. It’s a place where modern design and authentic island spirit blend seamlessly, providing a luxurious and effortless gateway to the best of Maui.
Meeting: Shanna Stewart with Gavin, Director of Sales
Steeped in the legacy of conservationist Laurance Rockefeller, Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is a sanctuary of breathtaking natural beauty and unparalleled luxury on Puerto Rico’s golden coast. This is a place where every detail is meticulously crafted to honor the surrounding environment, with low-slung, elegant accommodations nestled discreetly along a pristine two-mile stretch of beach.
Every guest is attended by a dedicated "embajador" to anticipate every need, and experiences are designed to be both deeply personal and effortlessly serene. It's a true Caribbean masterpiece where the modern comforts of a world-class resort are in perfect harmony with the untouched splendor of its surroundings.
Hotel: Shangri-La Paris
The Meeting: Shanna with Jean-Baptiste and Timothee, Directors of Sales Global/USA
Occupying the former residence of Prince Roland Bonaparte, the Shangri-La Paris is a masterpiece of elegance and heritage, offering what are arguably the most iconic views in the city. Located in the exclusive 16th arrondissement, this "palace" hotel blends classic French opulence with subtle Asian influences, creating an atmosphere of serene luxury. From the breathtaking sight of the Eiffel Tower from many of its rooms and suites to the two Michelin-starred restaurants, including the city’s only Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant, Shangri-La Paris is a feast for all senses. It's a truly unforgettable stay, where history, glamour, and world-class service converge to create the quintessential Parisian experience.
The Meeting: John with Leonarda, Director of Sales
Situated on Montenegro’s stunning Adriatic coastline, The Chedi Luštica Bay is a modern, five-star retreat that redefines coastal luxury. This serene haven is perfectly positioned at the heart of the new Luštica Bay Marina Village, offering a vibrant yet peaceful atmosphere. Guests are immersed in an environment where natural beauty meets sophisticated design, with breathtaking views of the pristine bay and surrounding mountains from every elegant room and suite. The hotel offers an exceptional experience that blends a private beach and a spectacular infinity pool with an Asian-inspired spa and world-class dining. The Chedi Luštica Bay is an idyllic escape for those who seek both relaxation and adventure, with a wealth of water sports and outdoor activities right at their doorstep.
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Hi, I'm John, and I'm told I have a cool accent. I absolutely love travel and I am proud to have built a team as passionate about exploring the world as myself. It took me a very long time to align my career with my undeniable passion for exploring, but now I and the team are here for you. Your personal travel tailors - award reservation and luxury custom itinerary experts. We provide a bespoke service, imagining and creating itineraries for independent minded families and groups.