Insider News

NEW MEMBER

WHO?   EUPHORIA RETREAT

WHERE?  On the Greek mainland in the heart of Peloponnese, just a 2.5 hour drive from Athens or under an hour from Kalamata. Nestled in the foothills of Mount Taygetus and surrounded by its own private pine forest, Euphoria Retreat overlooks the town of Sparta and the fertile valley of the Evrotas River carpeted with citrus and cypress trees. Additionally, the Byzantine city of Mystras, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with an imposing medieval castle, watches over the retreat, its city at their doorstep.

WHAT?  A place of transformation and healing deeply authentic in its nature and philosophy. One of the world's leading holistic wellness retreats, guests come to Euphoria seeking a rejuvenating wellness experience that allows them to live a more balanced and healthy life that reconnects them with their spiritual self. Through the property's extensive spa facilities, treatments, programs, retreats, and nutritional cuisine options, guests are sure to find just what they are looking for at the secluded Euphoria Retreat in Greece.

We will be sharing more information on Euphoria Retreat soon, but in the meantime we invite you to review their WEBSITE and VIDEOS.

AWARDS

#1 PARILIO HOTEL (Paros):
Included on Travel + Leisure's 2020 'It List' of the best new hotels in the world

#2 ISTORIA HOTEL (Santorini):
Named the 2020 "Best Greek Island Hotel" by Condé Nast Traveller

#3 SINA VILLA MEDICI (Florence):
Listed as a recommended hotel in the 2020 Forbes Travel Guide
 

#4 SINA CENTURION PALACE

(Venice): Listed as a recommended hotel in the 2020 Forbes Travel Guide

#5 PALAZZO SENECA (Norcia):
Received the 2019 "Italian Sustainable Tourism Award" from TRI, a government tourism agency founded to promote responsibility in tourism

#6 IL GIARDINO (Florence):
Sina Villa Medici's restaurant was recently selected as one of The Fork's "Best Insider Restaurants in Florence"

NEWS

FROM INDIA & SOUTH ASIA » TCI, our DMC covering India, Bhutan, Nepal and Sri Lanka, has just debuted the 9th edition of its prestigious 'Art of Travel' brochure. The brochure is created by TCI's team of Destination Knowledge Center experts who are completely dedicated to discovering new and unique experiences for your clients. Learn what's 'hot' for 2020 and review the best in hotels and beyond by viewing the brochure here and remember that TCI is offering 15% commission on all new bookings made before April 30, 2020. Contact USA@tci.co.in.

FROM TUSCANY » Opening this May is Borgo Pignano's new Villa La Lavandaia. Among the estate's 750 acres, this villa will accommodate up to 5 people in 2 bedrooms and ensuite bathrooms. Additionally, a terrace and heated infinity pool with views of the surrounding Tuscan hills, a fully equipped kitchen and a living room will make it an attractive option for small groups or families. Contact reservations@borgopignano.com to book.

FROM LONDON » Piano Kensington has a new home at the Royal Garden Hotel! This cherished neighborhood bar has taken up residency at the hotel and will continue to offer the same great music Monday–Saturday from 5:00pm until late. Piano Kensington features some of London's best musicians and promises a fun night full of song and dance. Contact sales@royalgardenhotel.co.uk for hotel reservations.

FROM TUSCANY » After off season enhancements at Viesca Toscana in Reggello, two of their villas will now be able to accommodate larger sized groups. Villa Viesca can now accommodate up to 18 people while Cottage Gelso can now accommodate 6 people (16 people when paired with Villa Gelso). Contact info@viescaestate.com for bookings.

EXPERIENCES

HISTORICAL COMPETITION IN FLORENCE » Every June in Florence, the "Calcio Storico Fiorentino" is held in a dirt-covered Piazza Santa Croce. The game, which dates back to the 16th century, is a combination of soccer, rugby, and wrestling, and today it is played in historical costumes with four competing teams representing each of the four historical neighborhoods. The intense final game, played annually on June 24th, begins with a traditional parade and ends with fireworks launched from Piazzale Michelangelo. To be in the center of the action, consider accommodation at our Florence properties or for an exciting excursion from the countryside, check out this package from Castel Monastero.

FAMILY EXPERIENCES IN TURKS & CAICOS » The kid-friendly beach, spacious villas, array of activities and complimentary kids club are just a few of the reasons The Somerset on Grace Bay is the perfect choice for families looking to get away. With fun experiences such as private dinner on the beach followed by a bonfire and s’mores, consult our partners at Luxury Experiences Turks & Caicos to learn more about this family option.

WINE AND CASHMERE EXPERIENCE IN UMBRIA » Visit an Umbrian winery and enjoy a wine tasting accompanied by a picnic set in the vineyard. Next, travel to the small village of Bevagna known for its textile traditions and cashmere productions to learn its history and participate in an exclusive workshop experience. Learn more about this package designed by Palazzo Seneca or view all of their experience packages here.

SUMMER MUSIC EVENTS IN TUSCANY » Andrea Bocelli in concert, the Lucca Festival featuring Paul McCartney and Celine Dion, and the Puccini Festival – these are the main events to look forward to this June, July and August when staying by the sea at Hotel Byron (Forte dei Marmi) or Hotel Plaza e de Russie (Viareggio). With special event packages available, contact owner Salvatore Madonna for detailed information at s.madonna@plazaederussie.com.

WEBINARS

REDISCOVERING VIAREGGIO'S HOTEL PLAZA E DE RUSSIE

MARCH 11 AT 12PM EST — Learn what's new at the 'jewel of Viareggio', including information about its interior design transformation and Michelin-starred restaurant. REGISTER HERE