I have been a proud business owner the last few weeks. The Conde Nast recognition is great but really, I was more struck by how far we have come as a business and team when all 8 team members congregated in Amsterdam for a few days.
We enjoyed some team building tours and a serious strategy session, before 5 of us continued on to the AmaMora river cruise ship for a 5-day Luxury Travel Symposium.
Meanwhile, now back in the office, we are seeing quite a different mix to this year's destination make-up. Greece and Eastern Europe have seen a marked slowdown, we presume because of the proximity to the Middle East, while SE Asia and especially Thailand have seen a huge resurgence in interest. Australia too is very high up on our most demanded list for 2024 and beyond. It's so interesting following these global travel patterns, not least because they seem impossible to predict.
I digress. Please enjoy this weeks article on our adventures in Netherlands and Belgium.
Too Dutch of a Good Thing
1. Amsterdam (above and below)
Amsterdam is famed for its picturesque canals, and entices with a vibrant tapestry of culture and charm. Navigating its cobbled streets, bicycles weave through the bustling cityscape, reflecting a cherished mode of transport. Art flourishes in its renowned museums, from the masterpieces of the Rijksmuseum to the contemporary exhibits of the Van Gogh Museum. Walk around and you will experience the scent of warm stroopwafels wafting through the air, along with some interesting smells from the "coffee" shops. Even if you don't partake, they are well worth popping in to, in order to understand the culture. And don't forget the windmills just outside the city.
2. Bruges (above and below)
Bruges' medieval streets wind past historic buildings adorned with intricate architecture, while tranquil canals mirror the city's romantic ambiance. Cobblestone pathways invite leisurely strolls, revealing hidden gems at every turn, from quaint cafes to artisanal chocolate shops. Chocolate is everywhere and we all chose the incredible chocolatier Depla to make our purchases. The city's rich history echoes through its well-preserved landmarks, inviting exploration of its Gothic marvels like the Belfry of Bruges.
3. Ghent
Ghent is another Belgian treasure, that enchants with its blend of medieval grandeur and contemporary vibrancy. Its skyline is punctuated by the imposing Gravensteen Castle (below), a testament to its storied past. Wandering through the cobblestone streets, you will discover a city brimming with cultural riches, from its majestic cathedrals to its thriving arts scene. Along the tranquil banks of the river, historic guildhouses (below) stand as reminders of Ghent's mercantile legacy. With its timeless charm and dynamic spirit, Ghent beckons explorers to uncover its many layers of history and culture.
4. Gouda (the city and the cheese, below)
Sailing back into the Netherlands, we discovered Gouda, a Dutch delight steeped in tradition, with yet more cobblestone streets and picturesque canals. Renowned for its centuries-old cheese market, where the iconic Gouda cheese has been traded since the Middle Ages, the city offers a taste of its rich culinary heritage. Gothic architecture graces its skyline, while cozy cafes beckon with savory delights. Beyond cheese, Gouda's charm lies in its historic landmarks, such as the Gothic St. John's Church, ensuring a delightful blend of cultural immersion and gastronomic indulgence.
5. The Symposium on AmaMora (above and below)
During a 5-day Luxury Travel focused Symposium, the team soaked up content from suppliers, peers, Forbes, experts in the mindset of luxury, and perhaps most importantly networked with so many people who matter in this amazing industry. Corey (below with me) of luxury villa supplier Villas of Distinction even managed to help us secure a wonderful Ibiza villa booking while we were sailing.
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I love travel and I love travel planning just as much 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.