Vacations for Kids: 11 Trips They’ll Never Forget


The best vacations for kids are the ones that leave lasting impressions. Touring famous landmarks on the streets of cities like Paris and Hong Kong will loom large in a child’s memory for years to come. But so will the feeling of catching their first wave during a surfing lesson in Costa Rica, or the few words of Thai they learned to speak during a lesson in Chiang Mai.

Well-travelled families crave meaningful experiences like these at every point of their vacation, so Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts offer on-property family and kids’ activities that immerse guests in local culture.

Whether you’re headed to Boston, Seoul or the Serengeti, these kids’ activities will impress even the most experienced young jet-setter.

Nevis: Save the sea turtles

At Four Seasons Resort Nevis, Director of Recreation Mac Kee France plans activities that ensure guests of every generation can enjoy an authentic Caribbean experience. “We make sure that when each guest leaves, they feel a part of our Nevisian family,” he says.

The Resort introduces children to Nevisian culture with outdoor activities like kite making, dialect lessons, games and coconut treats – all while keeping an eye out for sea turtles, which nest along beaches between June and October.

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Youngsters can play a role in naming released sea turtles during Sea Turtle Conservancy Weekend.

What kids will love most: Visiting during Sea Turtle Conservancy Weekend in July, when they can participate in nightly turtle-tracking walks, catch-tag-and-release events and other sea turtle-themed activities.

Discover more things to do in Nevis with kids >

Dive into fun in Nevis

Boston: Get creative – inside and out – in Back Bay

Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston, turns this historic city into an urban playground. After a day spent exploring – the Children’s Museum, the Museum of Science and the New England Aquarium are all within easy reach – return to the Hotel for a swim in the light and bright indoor pool, high above the city. Not sure where to start your adventure? The Kid Concierge is on hand to arrange excursions and activities tailored to your child’s interests.

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Set up a tent and bring the excitement of camping to your room.

What kids will love most: Kids will be delighted by the sweet treats awaiting them on arrival, along with child-size robes and more. They’ll actually look forward to bedtime when they see the in-room tent to help their imaginations go wild.

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Set up camp in Boston

Costa Rica: Catch the first wave

Discover pura vida at Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo. Children ages 4 to 12 can immerse themselves in nature as part of the Kids For All Seasons program, or explore as a family with a Papagayo Explorers excursion. As you hike, swim and play, be on the lookout for howler monkeys, iguanas, hermit crabs, military macaws and mangrove cuckoos. A sanctuary just for teens is staffed with a dedicated Concierge to help them choose from the numerous activities available.

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Kids can take lessons at the Resort’s surf school and learn to ride the waves like a pro.

What kids will love most: Catching their first wave. SurfX, the Resort’s own surf school, will help get young surfers ages 5 and up standing on a surfboard.

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Hang ten in Costa Rica

Maui: Learn to play ulu maika

A peaceful Hawaiian location plus outstanding amenities lure many families into staying put at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. At the Resort’s Kids For All Seasons program, kids ages 5 to 12 participate in Hawaiian traditions such as making leis, hunting for geckos and learning how to hula.

Maui kids club

Games like ulu maika – Hawaii’s version of bowling – are fun for kids and expose them to Hawaiian culture.

What kids will love most: The seemingly never-ending playtime – from the large game room and various balls to board games and complimentary beach activities, if kids like to play something in particular, the Resort likely has it.

Discover more things to do in Maui with kids >

Explore Hawaiian culture in Maui

Langkawi: Go on a monkey safari

In addition to games, crafts and kids’ spa treatments, the Lutong Kids Club at Four Seasons Resort Langkawi includes fun and educational experiences like batik painting and kite making – plus kids yoga and eco-excursions designed for children ages 4 to 12.

Langkawi kids rock climbing

Fun reaches new heights in Langkawi with a rock-climbing adventure for young jungle explorers.

What kids will love most: Joining the Resort’s resident Swamp Skipper as he navigates  the boat through the mangroves in search of macaque monkeys and eagles on the Mangroves & Monkeys Safari. Mom and Dad can get in on the fun, too.

Discover more things to do in Langkawi with kids > 

Plan your Langkawi adventure

Chiang Mai: Become a little master chef

The lush landscape of Northern Thailand is where sa paper (mulberry paper) comes from, and kids ages 4 to 12 can learn how to make it themselves in the La-On Club at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai. They’ll also explore the grounds, play games and learn to make traditional clay pots.

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Children can learn to make sa paper, which is used to create traditional paper umbrellas.

What kids will love most: Trying new flavours at Rim Tai Kitchen – a culinary class for the whole family will inspire you to re-create the northern Thai recipes together at home.

Discover more things to do in Chiang Mai with kids >

Learn new skills in Chiang Mai

Seoul: Swim in one of the coolest indoor pools

Kids will easily make themselves at home at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul – surprise them with an in-room tent for creative indoor camping, or spend an afternoon in the Kids For All Seasons Lounge. Your four-legged family members will be comfortable, too; available pet amenities include stylish beds, pet harnesses and a special meal just for your pup.

Seoul Juice Bar

The Juice Bar, steps from the pool, serves delicious smoothies and sandwiches to help you refuel after a day of swimming.

What kids will love most: Dressing in traditional hanbok clothing for Instagram-worthy pictures at nearby Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of the top attractions for families.

Discover more things to do in Seoul with kids > 

Make time to play in Seoul

Mauritius: Spin tunes on a tropical island

The giant banana-loving Aldabra tortoises and ocean activities at Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita are draws for all, but children ages 4 to 9 flock to the Hobbit Village Kids’ Club to make dodo-bird cookies in the bakery and kites from local trees and plants. Karokan, the staffed young adults’ centre, provides a hang-out for ages 10 and older in addition to excursions like kite surfing lessons.

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The Resort’s chilled-out Karokan clubhouse gives hard-to-please teens and pre-teens their own place to unwind.

What kids will love most: The DJ booth where teens can create their own disco.

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Find your groove in Mauritius

Serengeti: Become a wildlife researcher

At the Kijana Klub (kijana means “youth” in Swahili) at Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, children learn about the culture and animals of Africa, including how researchers study wildlife with cameras around the Lodge. What passes by depends on seasonal migrations, but buffalo, lions, dik-diks, leopards, zebra and wildebeest are possibilities. Kids also can play board games or video games and do crafts.

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During a morning spent with a Maasai warrior, kids hear African stories and learn how to make fire.

What kids will love most: Kids ages 6 and up can spend the morning with a Maasai warrior and learn skills such as how to make a toothbrush using tree twigs and how to use local plants for healing purposes.

Discover more things to do in Serengeti with kids >

Go wild in Serengeti

Doha: Get an authentic henna tattoo

Five pools border the private beach at Four Seasons Hotel Doha. The Hotel’s Kids For All Seasons program also offers educational experiences like treasure hunts and interactive activities for children ages 5 to 12, plus sports like beach football and golf.

Doha kids club beach

With kids’ programs designed for specific age groups, Four Seasons Hotel Doha promises excitement and fun during every stay.

What kids will love most: An Arabic henna hand-painting session, arranged by request.

Discover more things to do in Doha with kids >

Find fun for all ages in Doha

Florence: Create a piece of Italian art

Four Seasons Hotel Firenze showcases the city’s reputation as the birthplace of the Renaissance by enabling kids to explore their creative sides. Programming includes sessions for crafting Florentine souvenirs and sunset photography walks. These activities are best for kids ages 5 to 12.

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Kids can embrace their inner da Vinci with creative and artistic programmes, and will leave with handcrafted mementos of their time in Florence.

What kids will love most: Learning to paint a fresco beneath a canopy of centuries-old trees.

Discover more things to do in Florence with kids >

Explore your creativity in Florence

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

Select a destination and start exploring

Expansive beach

Your Ticket to Adventure

Meditate as the sun sets in Serengeti, immerse yourself in the rich culture of Mauritius, go back in time at the Taj Mahal and be inspired by community in Bali: Reconnect with yourself and loved ones over shared moments as these captivating destinations unfold on newly added departures of popular Four Seasons Private Jet journeys taking off in 2023 – a record year for the Private Jet, with eight expertly curated itineraries slated to help Four Seasons guests seamlessly explore the world.

Plan your Private Jet Journey

African Wonders takes guests on a 13-day family-friendly adventure to seven destinations, while Timeless Encounters, a 24-day journey around the globe, stops at nine destinations. Over 23 days, discover International Intrigue in nine destinations. Experience the legendary wonders of the world like never before during the 24-day Ancient Explorer trip, or set off on a captivating voyage through the Southern hemisphere on the 21-day Uncharted Discovery expedition. World of Adventures highlights the world’s natural beauty during rare experiences on four continents. Each trip – added to the slate of 2023 itineraries by popular demand – offers unique opportunities to get up close with history, nature and culture at some of the world’s most intriguing locales. The experts at Four Seasons have curated itineraries that take you on exclusive behind-the-scenes tours, after-hours visits and cultural exploration – once-in-a-lifetime experiences sure to send you home inspired by your global adventures.

Along the way, you’ll forge new friendships with your fellow travellers as you see the world in a new light. Toast your time together with Champagne as you lift off for a new destination, or gather backstage in the Private Jet’s lounge area – the new custom-outfitted Airbus A321LRneo, set to take flight in 2022, has been designed with your comfort in mind. Settle in to one of just 48 handcrafted seats, constructed with soft Italian leather and offering 6.5 feet (2 metres) of personal space to lie fully flat, or stretch out with the addition of a plush ottoman. Travel in luxury with Four Seasons team members – including a dedicated on-board physician, on-board concierge and executive chef – to handle all the details, leaving you free to enjoy every moment of your journey.

African Wonders: December 28, 2022 – January 9, 2023 (wait list only) & August 1 – 13, 2023

Explore seven far-flung destinations over 13 remarkable days with loved ones – majestic wildlife experiences, ancient historical treasures and breathtaking natural wonders that will awe travellers of all ages. This family-friendly journey begins on August 1 in Athens, where guests can step back in time during visits to ancient sites like the Acropolis and the Parthenon and soak up the sun on the glamorous Athens Riviera. The trip through history continues in Egypt with a guided tour of the Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the enigmatic Sphinx. From there, it’s off to the Serengeti, where you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the vast savannah during a hot-air balloon ride, then Mauritius, where you can explore the island’s protected lagoons by kayak or on a world-class snorkelling expedition. Rwanda, or the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” comes next and includes a trek through Volcanoes National Park in search of mountain gorillas and endangered golden monkeys. At Victoria Falls in Zambia, you’ll take in the world’s largest waterfall – one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Your African journey concludes in dynamic Johannesburg, South Africa’s historic and cultural hub.

International Intrigue: March 2 – 26, 2023 (wait list only)

Discover a variety of destinations – remote islands, vibrant cities, vast grasslands – in one remarkable journey. Over 23 days, you’ll visit nine destinations, diving deeply into local cultures and landscapes to gain a unique perspective on the world around you.

Your journey begins March 3 in Seattle with a welcome dinner for you and your fellow travellers, set beneath the stunning glass sculptures of famed artist Dale Chihuly. Next, you’re off to Kyoto to learn the secrets of samurai sword fighting and a visit to ancient temples and shrines. Get an authentic taste of Vietnam during a festive market dinner in Hoi An, featuring the city’s street food specialities. Live like a castaway on the Maldivian island of Kuda Huraa, a private coral island in the middle of the Indian Ocean – snorkel to colourful reefs or lounge on pristine sand. Encounter a different kind of paradise in the heart of the Serengeti, where you’ll discover a sanctuary where animals roam free. Travel back in time in Marrakech, where you can explore the ancient medina and uncover gilded treasures in a private souk excursion. From there, it’s off to the romantic city of Budapest – often called Central Europe’s most beautiful city. Sample strudel, browse its vibrant art and soak up the city’s laid-back café culture – or go deeper with a private guided tour of a medieval crypt at the storied Matthias Church. End this once-in-a-lifetime journey in Paris, where you can reflect on your experiences and raise a glass to your time together during a farewell dinner.

Timeless Encounters: March 26 – April 18, 2023
& April 17 – May 10, 2023

Craving even more time away with loved ones? Expand your horizons on the Timeless Encounters journey. Starting April 17, you’ll spend 24 days winging your way to nine destinations across the globe.

Start in Hawaii, on Oahu’s sun-soaked western coast, with a hike to a remote nature reserve or a cruise along an oceanside mountain range, and celebrate the beginning of your journey with a traditional Hawaiian luau. Then it’s off to Bora Bora, the pearl of the Pacific, where you can swim with manta rays and try a submarine scooter. Next up: Sydney, a city that blends outdoor adventure and a vibrant food scene with iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Then set off to discover the cultural heart of Bali – soul-stirring temples, renowned cultural traditions and a rich heritage of spirituality.

The halfway mark of your journey is the jungles of Chiang Mai, where you can learn the secrets of Thai cuisine in a cooking lesson from a Four Seasons chef, ride a tuk-tuk to the ancient temple of Chedi Luang and explore the bustling stalls of Warorot Market. Or opt for a two-night stay in the Four Seasons luxury tented camp in the famed Golden Triangle, in the heart of a tranquil bamboo forest. You’ll rejoin the group for a one-day stop to explore the Taj Mahal – flying by private jet offers the exclusive opportunity to touch down in Agra itself for a guided tour of this majestic monument. Sip in-flight cocktails as you discuss this incomparable experience with your fellow travellers on the way to Dubai, where you’ll arrive just in time for a sunset dinner or a thrilling 4×4 ride through the golden dunes. In Florence, enjoy access after hours to a private showing of Michelangelo’s David and the Piazza del Duomo, and lunch at a winery in the Tuscan countryside. End your around-the-world adventure in the historic centre of London with a celebratory group dinner – or extend your stay with guided tours of the city’s most beloved landmarks or a trip down the River Thames aboard a steamboat.

By popular demand, another Timeless Encounters journey has been added to the roster of 2023 trips. Departing on March 26, this 24-day includes stops in Kona for an awe-inspiring helicopter tour of the coastline and swim in sparkling waterfall pools and in Prague, where you’ll sip Champagne as you enjoy a private string quartet concert of Mozart favourites at the Estates Theatre, where the composer himself once performed.

Ancient Explorer: August 16 – September 8, 2023

Massive rock statues on Easter Island, gilded temples in Bangkok, the Pyramids of Giza: The ancient world is yours to explore on when the Four Seasons Private Jet lifts off on August 16 for the Ancient Explorer journey. Over the next 24 days, you’ll visit 10 captivating destinations – and experience the legendary wonders of the world like never before.

Embark on your journey around the world in Miami, with a welcome dinner for you and your fellow travellers. Your next stop: Mexico City and a hot air balloon ride over Teotihuacan to see some of the best-preserved pyramids from Mesoamerican civilizations. Then it’s off to remote, mysterious Easter Island, home to massive moai statues sculpted to honour the ancestors off the native Rapa Nui people. After watching the sun rise over the giant stones, head to Bora Bora for a swim with manta rays in the turquoise blue waters of the island’s lagoons. The underwater exploration continues at two of Australia’s natural wonders: the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Then it’s back to dry land in Bangkok, where you can visit the city’s gilded temples and the colossal golden statue of Buddha at Wat Pho. In the heart of the Jordanian desert, follow a Four Seasons guide to the iconic Lost City of Petra. The Private Jet also stops in Egypt for a day to explore the legendary Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. As the trip winds down, soak up the medieval architecture and authentic flavours of Sicilian life in Taormina, or hike Mount Etna, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The journey concludes in Madrid – flamenco dancing, world-class art museums and a tapas-style meal with your newfound friends.

World of Adventures: September 8 – October 1, 2023

Nine stops. Eight countries. Four continents. Twenty-four unforgettable days. The World of Adventures itinerary makes the most of every moment, from observing rare mountain gorillas in Rwanda to the bright sights, sounds and flavours of Marrakech. The journey begins September 8 in with a welcome dinner in Seattle, and then you’re off to Kyoto. Explore sacred temples and shrines, admire modern Japanese landscaping during a private visit to Tairyu-Sanso Garden – usually closed to the public – and learn the secrets of samurai sword fighting, drawing posing and swinging your katana like an ancient Japanese warrior. Immerse yourself in the deep spirituality of Bali’s culture, where you can experience a traditional water purification ritual, performed by a Balinese priest at Tirta Empul to cleanse mind, body and spirit. Your time in a tropical paradise continues in Seychelles, surrounded by white sand and sparkling blue waters. Join a Four Seasons chef for a cooking class covering the flavours of ingredients of Creole cuisine, or centre yourself in the moment with sunset yoga and meditation overlooking the ocean. Trade the blue seas for green jungles in Rwanda: Hike up the forested slopes of the Virunga Mountains in search of rare mountain gorillas and watch them interact with one another in their natural habitat. Your next stop? A full sensory experience in Marrakechfor an authentic taste of the Red City, board a horse-drawn carriage headed to the lively Jemaa el Fna, a vibrant square famous for its snake charmers, entertainers, souks and food stalls. Next, feel the rhythm of Colombia during a private salsa lesson, or browse the trendy shops in Bogotá and explore the city’s historic landmarks. Don’t miss the chance to sip the country’s most famous product while learning about its rich history during a visit to a family-run coffee farm. The penultimate stop on your journey can’t be reached aboard the Four Seasons Private Jet. Instead, set sail on a private ship for a three-day expedition to the Galápagos Islands. Watch sea lions frolic on the beach, cruise along dramatic cliffs, and be on the lookout for green sea turtles, penguins and flamingosthe Galápagos offer landscapes and wildlife found nowhere else on earth. Say farewell to your fellow travellers in Miami as you toast your experiences over a dinner infused with the Central and South American flavours that make the city so unique.  

Uncharted Discovery:
November 30 – December 20, 2023

See the Southern hemisphere from a new perspective aboard the Four Seasons Private Jet, with stops from the Americas to Antarctica. The adventure begins on Nov. 30 in New Orleans; over the next 21 days, you’ll visit a total of 7 exciting destinations. Embrace the pura vida lifestyle in Costa Rica as you soar through the forest canopy on a zip line tour, taste premium Latin American chocolate and rum during a demonstration with local experts, and gaze in wonder at the stars during an exclusive stargazing party. Board a private train with an expert guide and discover the legendary archaeological treasures of Machu Picchu. Then it’s off to Buenos Aires, the “Paris of South America,” for private tango lessons, a backstage tour of the famed Teatro Colón, and a day trip to the awe-inspiring Iguazú Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Next, you’ll set off for Antarctica via a private luxury polar ship for four unforgettable nights filled with ultra-remote landscapes, remarkable wildlife and breathtaking views. After this thrilling expedition, catch your breath with several days in Bogotá – take a guided tour of the city’s famed street art, join a renowned chef for a culinary demonstration, and enjoy a masterful performance by the Bogotá Philharmonic during a private concert. End your adventure in the Bahamas and a day lounging on pristine white sand, a soothing spa treatment, and a farewell dinner with your fellow travellers.

Looking to travel sooner? A few seats remain on several 2022 itineraries: Ancient Explorers offers departures in September 2022 and October 2022, while Uncharted Discovery has openings on its December 2022 voyage.

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

Where will the spirit of adventure take you on the Four Seasons Private Jet?

Cityscape

From Safari to the Sea

Whether you’re longing for a relaxing escape to pristine beaches or for a thrilling adventure in a wild savannah, the unforgettable landscapes of Africa offer these experiences and more. The Four Seasons Safari and Islands Collection puts this captivating region within easy reach.

Choose to fly commercially, or make every second count with the speed and ease of a private jet – a collaboration between the Four Seasons Safari and Islands Collection and ExecuJet provides the ultimate combination of speed, convenience, flexibility and safety. You can visit two destinations, you can map out an itinerary that takes you to all five: Customize your own journey of discovery and let Four Seasons take care of all the details.


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    Splash in turquoise waters, soak up the sun on two secluded beaches and explore under the waves during a snorkelling excursion. For the ultimate beach experience, head to the Resort’s private stretch of shoreline on the nearby island of Ile aux Cerfs. After basking on the sand, raise a glass to your time together as you and your guests feast on fresh seafood at La Plaz Beach Grill.

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    This hillside oasis is the perfect home base when you explore the city’s museums and browse chic boutiques. Connect with your destination with an Africa-inspired treatment at the Hotel spa. Our favourite? The Red Nomads Revitalizing Experience: local rooibos, baobab, Kalahari melon and coconut oils help even skin tone and revive the senses.

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    Take time to relax and recharge at this tropical island paradise, where waves lapping the shores of Petite Anse bay and views of lush green jungle will inspire a sense of tranquillity. Dive beneath the water’s surface to discover an underwater world – WiseOceans experts are on hand to lead you on a snorkel tour of the reef.

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    Escape to this captivating coral island in the middle of the Indian Ocean – the ideal spot for adventure on both land and sea. Get an up-close look at the Aldabra giant tortoises at the Island Conservation Society’s Tortoise Sanctuary – more than 150 of the endangered creatures call the island home.

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    Make yourself at home in one of the world’s most celebrated wildlife reserves. Get a feel for the Serengeti landscape on a walk with a Maasai guide and a park ranger, and help the Lodge’s Resident Naturalist install a digital “camera trap” to document lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo and other animals of the savannah.

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Hillside hideaway in Johannesburg

4.5 HOURS TO SERENGETI / 4 HOURS TO MAURITIUS / 5 HOURS TO SEYCHELLES AT DESROCHES ISLAND / 5 HOURS TO SEYCHELLES

The discovery of gold in the 19th century rapidly attracted people to Johannesburg. Today, the City of Gold is South Africa’s largest city, offering open-air markets, art districts, trendy restaurants and cultural attractions like the Museum of African Design. Tucked away in the rocky hills that run through the city is Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg – a chic hillside oasis. The best way to explore the city? With a local guide from Past Experiences, who can customize your tour based on your interests, from archaeology and photography to shopping or food. Afterwards, return to the Hotel and find serenity in the spa with a treatment inspired by the city’s golden history: The Gold of Mapungubwe experience detoxifies and moisturizes the skin using a baobab seed cake mixed with salt from a pan used by the Mapungubwe people a millennium ago.

Explore Johannesburg

Indian Ocean playground in Mauritius

4 HOURS TO JOHANNESBURG / 5 HOURS TO SERENGETI / 2.5 HOURS TO SEYCHELLES AT DESROCHES ISLAND / 2.5 HOURS TO SEYCHELLES

The mangroves and coral reefs surrounding Mauritius hide an underwater world teeming with marine life – parrotfish, butterflyfish, angelfish, moray eels, urchins and more. Learn about these creatures and the Reef Restoration Project with a WiseOceans marine educator at Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita, then head out on a guided snorkel to see them for yourself. More experienced divers can go deeper, discovering shipwrecks and caves outside the coral reef. On land, spend an afternoon lounging in the sun alongside your villa’s private plunge pool, or climb into a 1960s-style cabrio buggy-type vintage vehicle for a drive along the coast. End your day with a romantic candlelit dinner on the beach.

Plan a trip to Mauritius

Private paradise on Desroches Island

5 HOURS TO JOHANNESBURG / 3.5 HOURS TO SERENGETI / 2.5 HOURS TO MAURITIUS / 35 MINUTES TO SEYCHELLES

You’ll feel like a castaway who has struck gold when you arrive on Desroches Island. All you’ll hear is the gentle crash of waves, the sweet song of local birds and tropical leaves rustling in the soft ocean breeze. The ideal spot for adventure on – or under – the water, Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island offers easy access to some of the world’s best diving and fishing sites. Explore the crystal blue waters on a kayaking, stand-up paddleboard or surfing excursion, or go beneath the Indian Ocean waves to discover a dramatic underwater maze of caves and reef walls, inhabited by a colourful collection of marine life. End your day with a nightcap under a blanket of stars – after dark, the Resort’s private runway transforms into an awe-inspiring viewing area, just for you.

Visit Desroches Island

Savannah sanctuary in Serengeti

4.5 HOURS TO JOHANNESBURG / 3.5 HOURS TO SEYCHELLES AT DESROCHES ISLAND / 3.5 HOURS TO SEYCHELLES / 5 HOURS TO MAURITIUS

“I never knew of a morning in Africa when I woke up that I was not happy,” author Ernest Hemingway once wrote. The legendary writer found inspiration for several of his works, including Green Hills of Africa, during a visit to Serengeti in 1933. Discover the magic of the savannah for yourself at Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti: Lift off aboard a hot-air balloon to watch the plains come to life as the sun crests the horizon. Join a Maasai guide on a short nature hike to the Lodge’s kopje, where captivating views help clear your mind for a meditation session with the Lodge’s yogi. Spend a quiet day lounging by the infinity-edge pool, watching elephants gather at the nearby watering hole. Or help Discovery Centre researchers better understand the region’s wildlife. Did you know that every cheetah has its own distinctive pattern of spots? If you capture a photo of any of these big cats in the wild, the Lodge will help you send it to the Serengeti Cheetah Project. This national program uses guests’ images to identify individual cheetahs and record their movements around the Serengeti.

Explore Serengeti

Island adventure in Seychelles

5 HOURS TO JOHANNESBURG / 3.5 HOURS TO SERENGETI / 2.5 HOURS TO MAURITIUS / 35 MINUTES TO SEYCHELLES AT DESROCHES ISLAND

You’re on island time when you arrive at Four Seasons Resort Seychelles, where gentle breezes and sun-kissed beaches remind you to take it slow. Splash in the waters of Petite Anse bay, or catch a wave with an expert Tropicsurf instructor. To truly unwind, start the day with one of the Resort’s resident yogis for a private yoga and meditation class, followed by a serene breakfast in the secluded Foumba – meaning “old house” in Creole, the intimate open-air venue is tucked into the ruins of an ancient Seychellois house, hidden by lush tropical greenery. And you can arrange to leave a little piece of your heart behind when you go – help prepare a heart-shaped metal frame to support the growth of rescued coral fragments in an underwater nursery.

Unwind in Seychelles

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

What will your Africa itinerary include?

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A New Season in Napa: Fall Fashion
Inspired by Wine Country

California’s Napa Valley is ideally suited for Cabernet Sauvignon grapes: The region offers a sunny, warm climate; good drainage; and volcanic soils that add an earthy, rich complexity to its wines. At the new Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley, where the vineyard is protected by the Palisades mountains and oak-covered hills, world-class winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown and his team at the on-site Elusa Winery have carefully designed and planted it to intensify the grapes’ flavour. Take part in the winemaking process, from harvesting grapes to blending and ageing the wine, or learn about Calistoga’s unique terroir during a tasting session – the Resort provides the most complete grape-to-glass experience in Napa.

“The moment guests step foot on the property, they are welcomed into an extraordinary wine country oasis,” says General Manager Mehdi Eftekari. “Awe-inspiring views of the vineyards and Palisades Mountains are an idyllic backdrop to enriching experiences at TRUSS Restaurant + Bar and Elusa Winery. In guests’ suites, the vines are mere inches from their terraces and balconies.”


The dramatic scenery of North America’s wine capital – and the Resort, set to open later this year – also provide an idyllic background for the season’s most stylish new fashions. The looks pair perfectly with the Resort’s natural colour palette, rich textures and easy elegance.

Explore Napa Valley with Four Seasons

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The Resort spreads across 22.5 acres (9 hectares), offering dramatic scenery and viticultural discovery at every turn. It’s a natural hideaway for relaxation and indulgence, framed by picturesque forests and majestic mountains.

Left to right: On Julia: Genny top and skirt; Alexander McQueen boots. On Miki: Reem Acra dress. On Breanna: Valentino gown, Sethi Couture earrings.

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Make the most of Napa’s idyllic setting with a swim in the Resort’s two outdoor pools – the adults-only pool overlooks the vineyard, while the Resort Pool features shallow splashing areas that are perfect for families. Or celebrate the sunshine with elevated Napa cuisine at the modern TRUSS Restaurant + Bar or Cal-Mexican favourites at open-air Campo Poolside.

Left image, left to right: On Julia: Stella McCartney dress and boots; JYE ring (index finger); Sethi Couture ring (middle finger); Guess bag. On Miki: Gucci cardigan, jumpsuit and sandals; Wolford undergarments; Alexander McQueen clutch; Fabergé necklace and rings. On Breanna: Alyson Eastman dress; Chelsea Paris shoes; Tiffany & Co. necklace; Grace Lee ring (index finger); Katkim rings (ring fingers); Vhernier pink gold and jade bracelet; Sethi Couture bangles (near hand); JYE bangle (near sleeve). Right image: On Breanna: Reem Acra dress; JYE earrings.

Taste the Flavours of Napa

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Elusa winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown is celebrated for his non-interventionalist approach, letting the vineyard’s character shine. It’s a style that has paid off: Renowned wine critic Robert Parker Jr. has awarded him 23 perfect 100-point scores for his Cabernet Sauvignon projects over the past decade.

Left to right: On Breanna: Chloé coat, skirt, top and boots; Adeam earrings and ring. On Miki: Chloé poncho; Partow dress; Michael Kors Collection skirt; JYE ring (right hand); Vhernier ring (left hand). On Julia: Chloé jumper and skirt; Brunello Cucinelli boots; Sethi Couture necklaces, rings and earrings.

Savour Napa Valley wines

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Spa Talisa celebrates Napa’s rich vineyard heritage with treatments incorporating grape seeds – long recognized for their potent antioxidants and skin-pleasing polyphenols, flavonoids and anthocyanins. Try an exfoliating scrub of sugar and grape seeds to give your skin a soft, luminous glow. “Spa Talisa is rooted in Calistoga’s 150-year history as a wellness destination,” says Eftekari. “Guests can enjoy holistic treatments and private patios, or head to the steam decks for a locally-inspired steam experience.”

On Breanna: Gucci jacket, vest and trousers; Tory Burch ring.

Relax at Spa Talisa

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Century-old olive trees dot the Resort, adding character to the rustic yet elegant ambience indoors and out. Acres of vineyards, farmhouse-chic villas and romantic private terraces: It’s California wine country at its finest.

Left image: On Breanna: Brunello Cucinelli dress and cardigan; Katkim earring; Sethi Couture band (left hand) and stacked rings (right hand); Tiffany & Co. ring (middle finger). Right image, left to right: On Breanna: Dolce & Gabbana jacket, skirt and earrings; Akris top; Dior sunglasses. On Julia: Prada dress, top and stole; Tory Burch necklace; Katkim earring and rings (index and middle fingers); Grace Lee ring (index finger); Aaron Basha ring (right hand) and beaded bracelet; Vhernier gold and carnelian bracelet; Dior pearl necklace worn as bracelet; Stella McCartney sunglasses. On Miki: Altuzarra dress; Tory Burch top; Dior scarf; Max Mara head scarf; Dolce & Gabbana earrings; Alexander McQueen sunglasses.

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The Resort’s Vineyard Barn – with lofty beamed ceilings and prime views of the vines – is a coveted venue for weddings and events. Say “I do” in the vineyard, or gather with friends and family for a dinner party in The Cork Room, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the winery.

Left image: On Miki: Chanel coat, boots and earrings; Grace Lee ring (index finger); Sethi Couture rings (middle finger). Right image: On Julia: Harry Winston earrings, necklace, brooch, ring and cuff; Marina Moscone pajama shirt.

Photographer: Eric Ray Davidson

Stylist: Julie Matos

Assistant Stylists: Alyson Eastman and Johanna Houska

Makeup: Karina Moore

Hair: James Harris Jr.

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

Where will you explore next?

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Reconnect With the World:
How Travel Can Transform Your Outlook

Human brains are hard-wired to connect. It’s how we learn about the world around us and how we learn about ourselves. And in the series of moments that make up our lives, it’s moments of genuine personal connection that shine the brightest. This is never more true than when we travel.

For Jessica Nabongo, writer, entrepreneur and the first Black woman to visit every country in the world, making those connections is one of the most important and cherished parts of her journey not only throughout the globe, but through life.

“One question I ask people a lot is, what makes you happy?” Nabongo says. “Whether I’m talking to royalty or if I’m talking to someone who has nearly nothing living in a village, the messages remain very, very similar. It’s all about our personal relationships.”

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The daughter of Ugandan immigrants, Nabongo has been travelling internationally since she was 4 years old. In 2008, she left her corporate job and moved to Japan to teach English. She ended up living abroad for seven years, with stints in London, Benin and Rome, before returning to her hometown of Detroit, Michigan. But in 2017, with 60 countries already under her belt, Nabongo decided that she would set out to visit every single country in the world and share it all on Instagram under the handle @jessicanabongo. Two years and 136 countries later, she accomplished her record-breaking feat.

 


Recently, she connected with Florence, one of Italy’s most beautiful cities and centre of the art and culture of the Italian Renaissance, during a visit with Alicia Miller Corbett – editor of Four Seasons Magazine – to record a podcast sharing more about her personal journey and perspective on connection.

At Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, centuries of history lie within reach in the Hotel’s expansive private garden – the largest in the city. Originally planted in the 15th century and filled with statues, fountains and a small Ionic temple, the garden retains its ancient beauty and charm. After a stroll under centuries-old trees and a Michelin-starred dinner garnished with views of iconic landmarks like the Duomo, Nabongo could maintain the Renaissance mood in her guest room, where frescoes and original architecture bridge the gap between their time and ours.

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Explore With Your Heart

Deep in the Tuscan countryside, Giotto, a curly-haired Lagotto Romagnolo, goes sniffing through the woods in search of the elusive truffle. His owner, Luca, is close by. About an hour’s drive from Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, this truffle-hunting expedition offers Nabongo a rare glimpse into the rural heart of the region, both through the bucolic scenery and, later, through the cuisine. “To learn so much about the history of truffles, and to learn about it through [Luca’s] clear passion for it, it was such an amazing experience,” she says.

Explore Florence with Four Seasons

Extending an exploration beyond the major cities is one of the best ways to get know a new country. And for Nabongo, experiencing a destination is much more than a change in geography. “I think even beyond going outside the main cities, it’s about how you explore any place you visit,” she says. “My passport into a country – my entry point – is always the people.”

What happens if you don’t speak the language? No problem, says Nabongo. Her philosophy? “I speak with my heart and not with my mind.”

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Get Out of Your Comfort Zone

Whether you’re worried about travelling alone, visiting certain countries or even sampling the street food, Nabongo always encourages people to leave their fears at home. “I would say that my travel philosophy is to travel without fear. And to travel with positive energy,” she says. “I always say positive energy coats my stomach, because I’ve never had food poisoning!”

It’s true that one of the easiest ways to connect with a new culture – and with new people – is to sit down for a meal. In Florence, it could be a four-course gourmet meal designed by the Hotel’s Michelin-starred chef and served on the famed Ponte Vecchio – an experience available exclusively to Hotel guests – or standing in line with the locals for an order of trippa or lampredotto at one of the city’s ubiquitous food stands. Either way, being open to new foods and new people doesn’t just satisfy your body, it satisfies your soul.

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“I’m constantly living outside of my comfort zone. I think my comfort zone is discomfort,” Nabongo says, laughing. “Even beyond travel, my life philosophy is to live fearlessly – and live a life without limits.” By documenting and writing about her travels, she hopes that her journey and everything she shares can help inspire people to move past their limits, whatever they may be. “Because for me, I feel like I’ve created the life that I want to live,” she says. “And I feel that the reason I was able to do that is because I realized everything that I need is already inside of me.”

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Redefine Your Idea of Home

Connections, expected or unexpected, can help inform how we interact with the world. And that can ripple out beyond us. A friendly encounter at a restaurant may inspire you to recommend it to a friend who’s visiting the same city. A conversation with a tour guide or fellow traveller might change your itinerary for the better. Or a new dish or drink is shared with you and you in turn share it with your family back home.

Nabongo can think of many of these moments that have impacted her throughout her travels, particularly when it comes to hospitality. “I think that hospitality comes from the experiences that I’ve had because so many strangers around the world have welcomed me into their home and cooked me meals,” she says. “As I’ve gotten older, I’ve made sure to sort of perfect how I’m welcoming people in my home. And honestly, it’s also redefined my definition of home. For me, now, home is in people. Yes, I physically live in Detroit, but I have homes in London, Accra, Dakar, Bangkok, Rome – I can think of so many places that I have homes because my people are there.”

To feel at home in the world. What more could a traveller – or a human, for that matter – ask?

RECONNECT THROUGH LIFE-CHANGING TRAVEL

Your journey begins here

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