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Home Blogs, Magazines, Publications Virtuoso Insider’s Guide
Whale Watching in Nova Scotia, Canada

Virtuoso Insider’s Guide

Estimated reading time: 17 minutes

VIRTUOSO INSIDER’S GUIDE - LOGO
SEABOURN - YEN BAI, VIETNAM

Virtuoso Life Guide: Staying Home

Social distancing like it’s our job. Right now, our homes are our whole wide world. They’re our gyms, our offices, our schools, our bakeries, our spas and staycation destinations, our nail and (yikes) hair salons. Yes, we’re in the travel business and we’re dreaming of the day we can get back out there. But it’s our responsibility to #stayhome now, so we’ve rounded up some diversions to make social distancing more pleasant, productive, and inspiring.

  • → Read: Our Book Picks
  • → Watch: What to Stream Right Now 
  • → An Insider’s Guide to the Caribbean
  • → Decorate: Beautiful Ways to Preserve Travel Memories 
  • → Connect: How to Stay Social While You’re Social Distancing
  • → Listen: Queue Up Our Favorite Podcasts
  • → Shop (Online): 8 Ways to Bring Your Favorite Hotel Home
  • → Keep Calm: How We’re Making Our Mental Health a Priority
  • → Sip: 7 Wines to Take the Edge off Social Distancing 
  • → Play: Family Game Night Ideas 
  • → Debate: Our Rejected Travel Showdowns 
  • → Pitch In: How You Can Help
  • → Go: The Best Virtual Vacations On the Internet 
  • → Cook: Great Recipes from Around the World
  • → Get Inspired: How We’re Getting Creative at Home
  • → Entertain the Kids: Download the Virtuoso Travel Activity Book 
  • → Relax: The Ultimate Self-Care Day 
  • → Work: How We’re Staying Productive at Home (And a Look at Our Setups)

Adventure Calls

Seabourn Cruises - Amazon voyage

Take the Road Less Traveled

After two years of staycations and close-to-home travel, we’re ready to hit the road, skies, and seas again for those long-delayed adventures. Whether it’s an African safari, Galápagos cruise, or expedition to Antarctica, your Northstar Virtuoso travel advisor will handle all the mind-boggling logistics and see that you get the full VIP treatment.

Cruises

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Arctic Expedition

Arctic expeditions on a new polar ship (complete with two helicopters). Up-close encounters with wildlife in Svalbard. Costa Rica under full sail. See All Experiences  ›

Hotels

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Hotels - Botswana safari lodges

Glamping, pura vida-style, at the foot of Arenal Volcano. Botswana safari lodges known for their creature comforts. Stargazing in Sedona’s Red Rock Country. See All Experiences  ›

Tours

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Tours - National Parks

Spectacular national parks accompanied by a Navajo guide. Hiking, cycling, and kayaking in New Zealand. Game drives in Maasai Mara. Hot-air balloon rides in Egypt. See All Experiences  ›

Destinations & Experiences

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Destinations - on the Arabian Peninsula

One of the oldest cities on the Arabian Peninsula is an intriguing new travel destination. A festival of light, music, and ideas in Sydney. British Columbia’s charming summer playground. See All Experiences  ›

Adventure Calls

Holiday & Winter Getaways

Now’s a great time to nail down your holiday travel and 2022 winter adventures. In the mood to try reindeer sledding? Your Northstar Virtuoso travel advisor can arrange a storybook stay in a cozy log cabin in Finland. Prefer to chill somewhere warmer? There’s a villa in the Maldives, a cottage in Saint Bart’s, and a bungalow in Santa Monica that would be perfect for you. Wherever you go, expect exclusive amenities and expert guidance when you book through your Northstar Virtuoso travel advisor.

Cruises

Virtuoso Insider Guide - AmaWaterway's Travelers

Sip hot mulled wine in Christmas Markets along the Danube. Ring in the new year on the Mexican Riviera. Savor caviar and Champagne served by ship officers (in the surf!) in Saint Kitts.

More  ›

Hotels

Virtuoso Insider Guide - De L'Europe Amsterdam

Picture this: original 17th-century art in the lobby of your hotel in Amsterdam. Score a suite deal in Scottsdale and a personal ski instructor in Saint Moritz. Make merry in Montego Bay.

More  ›

Tours & Packages

Virtuoso Insider Guide - The Milestone Hotel & Residences

Welcome back, bienvenue, and benvenuto to London, Paris, and Florence. Chase the sun in Los Cabos. Hit the slopes in Utah and Montana. Opt for a private driver in Scotland, Iceland, or Ireland.

More  ›

Holiday & Winter Getaways

Off the Beaten Path

VIRTUOSO INSIDER GUIDE - Off the Beaten Path

Take the Road Less Traveled

How many people have heard of AlUla? (Clue: It’s one of the oldest cities on the Arabian Peninsula.) Who’s considered a trip to Inari-Saariselka or Rovaniemi? (Hint: They’re great places to spot the Northern Lights.) No question: Our planet is teeming with off-the-beaten-path places just waiting to be discovered by you. No matter the destination, your NorthStar Virtuoso travel advisor is ready to help plan an unforgettable vacation filled with extra amenities and insider tips.

Discover the spirit of Mana in Tahiti

Experience this rich culture, friendly people, and unrivaled natural beauty. Countless exciting activities and experiences await them – from participating in a traditional Polynesian performance and snorkeling in crystal clear waters to relaxing in an overwater bungalow – the possibilities are endless.

Top Destination Highlights
  • Relax on Bora Bora’s white-sand beaches
  • Dive into Fakarava’s fascinating lagoon
  • Explore the Marquesas Islands on horseback
  • Enjoy a traditional Polynesian dance show
  • Stay in an iconic overwater bungalow with Virtuoso exclusive amenities
  • Hike the lush, tropical mountains and valleys, discovering hidden waterfalls and lava tubes
  • Attend a local event such as the Heiva i Tahiti and the Hawaiki Nui Va’a
  • Discover ancient archaeological treasures: marae (temples), petroglyphs, tikis, and museums
  • Swim with large marine life: humpback whales, dolphins. manta rays, sharks, and more

Cruises

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Cruises - Greek Islands

Score a bonus shipboard credit by booking your 2022 voyage early. Slip into remote, uncrowded ports in Tahiti. Live larger in Alaska with a sea+land cruise tour. Cruise the seductive Greek Isles this fall. More  ›

Hotels

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Hotels - Dominican Republic

Complimentary massages in the Dominican Republic? Limo transfers, solicitous butlers, and priority tee times in Greece? Yes, please! More  ›

Tours & Packages

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Tours - Mongolia

Witness ancient traditions and visit nomadic families in Mongolia. Partake in “I can’t believe we did that” experiences in Peru, Egypt, and Costa Rica. Go on a private jet journey in Southern Africa and Antarctica. More  ›

Destinations & Experiences

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Destinations - AlUla

Be among the first to explore AlUla, off-limits to tourists until recently. Discover the hidden charms of Central Europe. Chase the Northern Lights in Lapland. More  ›

Off the Beaten Path

Family Outing

There is nothing wrong with staycations, but we’re willing to bet, by now, your family is itching to take a real vacation. And you’re undoubtedly eager to meet up with those favorite relatives you haven’t seen in ages. We have lots of great suggestions for family-centric vacations. Receive VIP amenities when you book your travel through your Virtuoso travel advisor – from free nights to generous resort credits.

Cruises

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Cruises - Kids and Otter

Imagine your child’s surprise when they come face-to-face with giant tortoises and curious sea lions in the Galápagos. Marvel at bizarre mud pools and deep blue icebergs on a circumnavigation of Iceland.
More  ›

Hotels in the U.S.

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Hotels in the US - Pool Slides

Score a complimentary round of golf and spa treatment in seaside Carlsbad. Treat junior cowboys and cowgirls to a ranch experience in Utah. Sun yourself in a poolside cabana while the kids enjoy a Ranger program in the Sonoran Desert.
More  ›

Hotels Around the Globe

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Hotels around the Globe - Swimming Pools

Savor time together in a dreamy villa in the Dominican Republic. Relax in a spa housed in former bank vaults in England. Enjoy creature comforts and adventures with creatures (ponies!) in Jamaica.
More  ›

Destinations & Experiences

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Destinations & Experiences, Mom and Kids by Pool

Unwind in Maui in a spacious, family-friendly suite. Chat up Humboldt penguins and zip-line in Peru. Adventure in Southern California’s original surf town.
More  ›

More Family Outing

Suite Retreats

Room to explore and relax

Whether you’re eager for more room to spread out or a space that can comfortably accommodate everyone, a suite is the way to go. In addition to increased square footage, you’ll find awesome amenities that will take your vacation to the next level – everything from private pools and patios with fire pits to airport transfers and specialty dining experiences.

Cruises

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Cruises - Holland America Line

Treat yourself in Alaska and Europe with 50% off excursions, drinks, and dining. Score free air on a river cruise in Europe. Savor sustainable caviar while sailing among the seductive Greek Isles.
More  ›

Hotels in the U.S.

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Hotels in North America - One&Only Mandarina

Opt for a treehouse with plunge pool at Mexico’s new coastal rain forest retreat. Spread out on your private wraparound lanai in Maui. Bliss out at a five-acre spa in Puerto Rico.
More  ›

Hotels in Europe

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Hotels in Europe - Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London

Live it up in London with an in-suite two-Michelin-starred dinner. Look forward to a private pool and butler at the #1 resort in Greece. Unwind with a complimentary massage in Marbella.
More  ›

Destinations & Experiences

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Destinations & Experiences - Belmond Trains & Cruises

Relax on an overnight rail journey between Venice and London or Paris. Pamper yourself with the finest amenities in Singapore. Kick back on a white-sand beach in the Turks and Caicos.
More  ›

Suite Retreats

Sun and Sand

After what seemed like an endless winter, the future is looking enticingly bright. If you’re looking for a warm-weather vacation, we know dozens of places to lay down your beach towel – from Malibu to Maui, Turks and Caicos to the Turkish Riviera. Your Virtuoso travel advisor can help you plan your next getaway with their expertise and access to exclusive amenities such as free nights and generous spending credits.

Cruises

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Cruises

Set sail for the summery vibes of the Caribbean. Snorkel directly from your crewed yacht in the British Virgin Islands. Opt for a small-ship cruise in the Eastern Med and save 60% on a second guest.
More  ›

Hotels in the U.S.

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Hotels in the U.S.

Recharge and renew at a wellness retreat in Miami. Indulge in a free night at the Pink Palace of the Pacific. Enjoy coastal bike rides and check out the vibrant arts scene in Santa Monica.
More  ›

Hotels Around the Globe

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Hotels Around the Globe

Bask in the Bahamas with a free night and a $100 food and beverage credit. Live large at an eco-friendly sanctuary in Puerto Rico. Save 50% on a second room in Cozumel.
More  ›

Destinations & Experiences

Virtuoso Insider Guide - Destinations & Experiences

Drink in dramatic views of the Pitons in Saint Lucia. Unplug and relax in laid-back Santa Monica. Sip sunset mai tais on your private Big Island lanai.

More  ›

SUN & SAND

Adventure Calls

Trips that go above, below, and beyond

Virtuoso Insider's Guide - ADVENTURE CALLS

Now is the perfect time to start planning that big adventure you’ve been dreaming of. Whether it’s Antarctica, an African safari, or an expedition cruise to the Galápagos, look for early booking savings, flexible cancellation policies, and generous incentives. Your Northstar Virtuoso travel advisor can negotiate special rates with amenities, help you wade through the fine print, and advise about the logistics.

Adventure Calls

Cruises Adventures

Virtuoso Insider's Guide - Cruise Adventures

Add the Falklands and South Georgia to your Antarctica itinerary. Meet blue-footed boobies and giant tortoises in the Galápagos.
More »

Hotel Adventures

Virtuoso Insider's Guide - Hotel Adventures

Envision an active ski trip in Vail or a guided trek in Red Rock Country. Hike historic trails on the Big Island. Find sandcastles and surf camps on the beach in California.
More »

Package Adventures

Virtuoso Insider's Guide - Package Adventures

Explore Central Asia with a National Geographic photographer. Treat the kids to an adventure-laden trip to Yosemite. Engage with chimpanzees in Uganda.
More »

Celebrations

Vacations to plan for in the New Year

VIRTUOSO INSIDER’S GUIDE - Celebrations

If ever there was a reason to celebrate, it’s that 2020 is now in our rear-view mirror. It’s time to begin planning those delayed celebrations and long-awaited vacations. And now, more than ever, your Virtuoso advisor will prove invaluable – whether you’re looking to commemorate a major birthday, important milestone, or happy occasion (we’re looking at you, honeymooners). Expect expert insights on destination travel guidelines and safety protocols, modes of transportation, and accommodations. And look forward to exclusive amenities – such as upgrades, complimentary nights, and shipboard credits.

Celebrations

Packages of Celebrations

Virtuoso Insider's Guide - Traverse the Canadian Rockies

Traverse the Canadian Rockies by train. Circumnavigate the globe on the queen of ocean liners. Chill in the Caribbean with birthday-boy Richard Branson.
More »

Hotels of Celebrations

Virtuoso Insider's Guide - The Lodge at Blue Sky

Tie the knot under blue skies in Utah. Live large with a private plunge pool in Mexico. Celebrate good health with a wellness getaway in Arizona.
More »

15 Trips of a Lifetime

VIRTUOSO INSIDER’S GUIDE - Trips of a Lifetime

Happy New Year and Happy Planning!

It’s safe to say that many – if not most – of us were forced to cancel a potential “trip of a lifetime” in 2020. But as this challenging year draws to a close, with promising vaccines on the horizon, we’re looking longingly at our suitcases and a return to travel in 2021/2022. Whether you’re planning to re-book that canceled European vacation or – with the money you saved from not traveling – splurge on that bucket-list experience you’ve daydreamed about, we’re ready to assist when you’re ready to shift from “Pause” to “Play.”

Trips of a Lifetime

Cruises of a Lifetime

Virtuoso Insider's Guide - Cruises

Charter a yacht – with captain and chef – and explore the British Virgin Islands. New in 2022: free airfare from a leader in luxury cruising.
More »

Hotels of a Lifetime

Virtuoso Insider's Guide - Hotels

Channel The Crown in London. Practice social distancing on a 500-acre ranch. Work and learn remotely in the Cayman Islands.
More »

Packages of a Lifetime

Virtuoso Insider's Guide - Packages

Savor Slovenia’s celebrated cuisine and green initiatives. Travel without the crowds in Croatia, Scotland, and Italy. Explore the past and future in Tokyo.
More »

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Categories: Blogs, Magazines, Publications, Lodge, Ranch, or Camp, Luxury Tours Category, Wellness Tour

Tags: Alaska, Botswana, British Virgin Islands, Canadian Rockies, Caribbean, Croatia, Dubai, Europe, Germany, Grand Cayman, Greece, Italy, Kids, London, Mexico, New Zealand, Philippines, Scotland, SKI, Slovakia, Slovenia, Surf, Sydney, Tahiti, Tokyo, Uganda, Utah

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