Embrace Culture & Community with
Y Travel and Belmond
We intently believe the very purpose of travelling is to connect with a new destination and its people; to be totally immersed in its history and nuance. Our ‘Culture & Community’ Y Factor encapsulates this mentality and allows travellers to discover the essence of a location, learn about its unique heritage and embrace it.
Similarly, the hallmark of the Belmond brand is the distinct thread of heritage, craftsmanship and culture woven throughout all its hotels and experiences, which span continents and various modes of transportation, including luxury rail and barge tours.
As one of the hand picked members of the prestigious Bellini Club, we are Belmond’s brand ambassadors in the travel industry. This allows us to pass on exclusive offers, amenities and resort credits to our clients.
Make it Bespoke.
Below are just some of the transformative Belmond travel experiences that put Culture & Community at the front and centre.
Sample the Legendary Local Rio de Janeiro Life
An art deco masterpiece, Copacabana Palace in Rio de Janeiro is regarded as the crown jewel on the world’s most iconic beach. Since opening its doors in 1923, the landmark hotel has welcomed the rich and famous, and is known as the hottest spot to mix with local socialites over caipirinhas.
It also provides the most enviable seat in the house for Rio’s coveted theatrical events, including the spirited spring carnival and firework-emblazoned New Year’s Eve celebrations. For a true taste of the legendary local life, go all out at Rio Carnival and revel in the unforgettable essence of Brazil’s lively dance, the Samba.
In addition to luxurious accommodation and daily breakfast, your Belmond experience includes two tickets to the Copacabana Palace Carnival Ball – complete with a delectable buffet dinner, beverages, and access to all ballrooms - and Two tickets to the Sambadrome Stadium Parade including return transfers, exclusive seats and unlimited snacks and beverages.
Learn the art of Time-Honoured Thai Traditions
Napasai is a secluded beach hideaway in Koh Samui, surrounded by emerald palms and some of the destination’s most beautiful coves and reefs. Not only is it the perfect place for an adventure, it also provides a serene setting for guests to explore local traditions and culture.
From interactive introductory language lessons, where you’ll learn the basics of local conversation, to complimentary Muay Thai boxing lessons, there’s plenty to do here to fill your cultural cup. The national sport of Thailand, Muay Thai is a rigorous discipline focused on combat techniques that require all your limbs, and plenty of mental focus, and the resort offers group workouts or private sessions with its resident pro boxer.
Massage is an integral part of Thai healing arts. Each week, the resort offers a complimentary class where you’ll learn how to hone the art of head massage. An expert therapist will guide you through the theory and application, before you put your skills to the test.
Thai cuisine is adored around the world and the resort allows guests to roll up their sleeves for a cooking masterclass in its kitchens. Fusing fragrant herbs with aromatic spices, chefs will help you conjure a true taste of Thailand before you indulge in a traditional four-course meal.
Explore Traditional Villages in Luang Prabang
A sanctuary of serenity in the mountains of Laos, La Residence Phou Vao allows guests to sink into a world of laidback relaxation just moments away from the treasures of Luang Prabang.
The hotel’s prized location in this beautiful UNESCO Heritage region affords spectacular mountain views over sculpted grounds that seemingly melt into an endless cloud forest.
You’re free to spend the day reviving in the freshwater infinity pool, admiring the impressive views from the cliff edge, or indulging in the in-house Mekong Spa.
To experience life like the locals, the hotel offers several immersive experiences including a traditional Baci ceremony and a Laotian farm tour. A Baci ceremony is one of the oldest Lao traditions and is often used to celebrate special events. A senior village shaman will perform this enchanting ceremony for family and friends, bestowing blessings that are designed to strengthen community bonds and leave you feeling renewed.
The region surrounding the resort is rich with fertile land and a short trip outside of town whisks you to an idyllic farm for an informative, hands-on tour that showcases what life is like for traditional rice and vegetable farmers in Laos. Here you’ll learn how to plough with buffalo and the correct way to sow seeds.
There are also a number of quaint villages near the resort to explore, including Ban Xang Hai, which is famous for its wine distillery and punchy Lao-Lao whiskey. Alternatively, head to Ban Phanom, or the ‘village of weavers’, where you’ll learn about the complete cycle of silk production, before browsing the shops to find stunning locally made clothing, handicrafts and mementos.
Discover Scottish Whiskey, Myths & Medieval Sights
What better way to see swathes of a country than aboard a luxury train? The Royal Scotsman promises a memorable adventure spent exploring Edinburgh’s medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town. During your trip you’ll delve into a land of soaring peaks and mirror-still lochs; marvel at Eilean Donan Castle at the meeting point of three lochs; and fall in love with the romantic Ballindalloch, known as the ‘Pearl of the North’. From the moment you step onto the train, you are swept up in a world of myth, legend and timeless luxury.
Encounter Elephants in Chobe National Park
Located beside the mysterious Savute Channel, Savute Elephant Lodge is a tented oasis that serves as the perfect base to explore the wonders of Chobe National Park.
Savute Elephant Lodge boasts 12 luxurious tented rooms, each raised on a wooden platform to allow a breathtaking view of elephants in their natural habitat. Relax on your four-poster bed, unwind in your shaded outdoor lounge our settle down with a cocktail on your sun-soaked deck for a spot of wildlife viewing.
Breathtakingly captivating, this corner of Botswana has long been associated with the world’s greatest explorers, including David Livingstone, and guests can follow in their footsteps and head off for unique viewing expeditions at dusk or dawn, overlooking the watering hole where they might see elephants, hyenas and cheetahs in their element.
After the sun has set, gather around the campfire, and share tales of your day’s adventures, just like the villagers do throughout Botswana. Flames flicker and lamps glow as drinks are served and a choir sings traditional songs, inviting you to a buffet of African specialities. Finish an amazing evening dancing around the fire to rhythms passed down through generations.