"Laos is the kind of place that can easily capture your heart and not let you go." - Anthony Bourdain
INTRODUCING LA RÉSIDENCE PHOU VAO
Tucked into the emerald folds of Luang Prabang’s sacred hills, La Résidence Phou Vao is a sanctuary of stillness. This is where time slows, mountains stand sentry, and the soul of Laos reveals itself with quiet grace.
Once the official guesthouse of the royal family, the property remains the city’s most storied address, perched high above the UNESCO-listed old town with sweeping views of golden pagodas and the serpentine bend of the Mekong River. Here, amid three acres of lush tropical gardens fragrant with frangipani and jasmine, colonial charm meets timeless Lao traditions in perfect harmony.
Set to reopen later this year after an extensive renovation, we're thrilled to welcome this storied property into our collection this month.
Whether extracting honey from working apiaries, foraging wild botanicals, or blending artisanal gin in alpine laboratories, these cocktail experiences transform guests from observers into creators, offering hands-on adventures that reveal the artistry behind exceptional drinks.
In a world of instant everything, these artisans celebrate the beauty of taking time. Master craftspeople share not just skills but philosophies: how patience shapes pottery, how tradition informs innovation, and how working with your hands connects you to something larger than yourself.
Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal Puts Final Touches on Renovations
The beachfront resort starts the final phase of its multi-year transformation this month, renovating all 112 accommodations with a lighter color palette and new artisan furnishings before reopening on October 1.
How Mas d'en Bruno is Redefining Wine Country Experiences
As Catalonia becomes Europe's first 'World Region of Gastronomy', the Priorat resort unveils experiences featuring 14th-century recipes, wine therapy treatments, and immersive harvest festivals that showcase the region's culinary evolution.
Robb Report Celebrates Kokomo's World-Class Fishing Program
The piece showcases Kokomo Private Island's exceptional angling program, detailing the resort's five-boat fleet and varied fishing experiences in waters "teeming with a vast and varied array of the most exotic and sought-after marine species on Earth."
It's not too late for clients to experience Greece this season, as our partners offer distinctive late summer experiences that capitalize on the peaceful atmosphere that emerges as the crowds disperse.
'Why the Luxury Travel Spotlight is Shining on Cambodia Right Now'
“[It's] the next frontier: an emerging destination with deep cultural roots, untouched natural beauty, and a more exclusive, off-the-beaten-path feel,” says Melita Koulmandas, founder of Song Saa Private Island in a great read that also features Shinta Mani Hotels.
MoneyWeek Celebrates Trisara's "Feast for the Senses"
"A stay here will certainly lift your spirits," begins the publications's celebration of Trisara's culinary excellence, highlighting PRU's Michelin-starred innovation and the Thai resort's "real farm-to-fork dining" philosophy.
Finca Cortesin Enhances Family Experience with New Benefits
The Andalusian resort is rolling out the red carpet for families with new complimentary benefits including free extra occupancy for up to two children 12 and under (subject to maximum room occupancy), exclusive bathrobes for guests aged 5-12, and complimentary meals for children under 4 at select restaurants.
JoAnn Kurtz-Ahlers was in New York City last month and was thrilled to attend an Internova dinner during her time there.
Ruddy Harootian was just recently on property at Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle. Before he left for his trip, he ventured to Montreal for a sales mission, celebrated Pride Month at the home of Paul Walsh alongside Embark Beyond advisors, attended a SmartFlyer Soiree with Sofi Hatzivassiliou from Elements Yachting, hosted a lunch alongside Blanca Calvo from the Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona, and met up with Mauricio Alfaro from Costa Rican Trails.
Patrick Anderson led a FAM trip to Cartagena, Colombia to experience Casa San Agustin and Casa Pestagua.
Rachel Newman was out West with a group of advisors who nicknamed themselves 'The Jackson Five' during their stay at Hotel Yellowstone in Jackson Hole.
Meanwhile, Dori Solomon was able to tour Edinburgh and the Cotswolds with some of the team from Extraordinary Britain.
UPCOMING TRAININGS
UK Town & Country Webinar: Register & Enter for a Chance to Win Your Own Town & Country Escape!
Join our UK Town & Country Webinar on September 18th to master the art of pairing London's sophisticated city experiences with England's countryside retreats, featuring insights from The Goring, Extraordinary Britain, and Heckfield Place.
Plus, the registered advisor with the most new bookings by December 31, 2026 wins a fabulous prize: two nights at The Goring with dinner for two in their Michelin starred restaurant, a day of touring with Extraordinary Britain, and one night at Heckfield Place including breakfast and dinner for two.
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