The Trips You Need to Take This Spring

Spring is the season of new beginnings, so why not see it in a new place, or see a familiar place in a new light? Here are five Four Seasons destinations that call for exploration this spring.

Horses and History in London

London loves the spring. “It’s the best time to explore the popular sights and the city’s many green spaces, from public gardens, parks and commons to hidden terraces,” says Head Concierge Raphael Lelaure of Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge. To see the season in full bloom, he recommends a visit to the Chelsea Flower Show – held this year from May 24–28 and billed as the “world’s greatest flower show.” If you’re craving a little more action, don your best hat and head to the Royal Ascot from June 14–18 – the horses might be the winners of this storied race, but the fashion and food on offer are a close second.

The season is also the ideal time to experience the city. Thanks to the Hotel’s central location, you’re perfectly positioned to explore iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, just a short walk away. You’ll have them to yourself during an after-hours viewing of the stunning Crown Jewels collection, part of a private tour available only to Four Seasons guests. The Hotel’s address at Ten Trinity Square is itself an important piece of London’s history: the gentle hill where the building now sits was first used more than 2,000 years ago by the Romans as the site of the settlement of Londinium. The building opened in 1922 as the headquarters of the Port of London Authority and in 1946 served as the site of the inaugural reception for the UN General Assembly. Four Seasons is celebrated Ten Trinity Square’s 100th anniversary with a variety of special events and experiences, including guided tours and a display of artefacts on loan from the Museum of London Archaeology that were uncovered during the careful redevelopment of the site.

After a day spent exploring the city, return to the Hotel and celebrate one of the most cherished English traditions: afternoon tea, served beneath the beautiful domed ceiling of the Rotunda Lounge.

Celebrate the season in London

Hiking and Cherry Blossoms in Kyoto

In the garden- and temple-filled city of Kyoto, spring is synonymous with sakura (cherry blossom) season, when the city is awash in shades of pale pink. One particularly famous spot for admiring the blooms is the tree-lined road along the Kamogawa River, but you don’t have to stop there. “My hometown is near Ginkakuji Temple on the north side of Kyoto city,” says Kanako Morita, Concierge Team Leader at Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto. “When it was sakura season, my father and I used to walk Philosophy Path among the beautiful cherry blossoms and then go up to Mount Daimonji for a half-hour of hiking,” he says. Looking down at the view of Kyoto city from the top of the mountain in spring weather with my family is an absolute favourite memory.”

The Hotel itself has 37 of the flowering trees in its pond garden, and a number of ways to salute the season, such as the delightful Floral and Honey Afternoon Tea.

See spring in full bloom in Kyoto

 

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Botanicals and Beauty in India

Come spring, the bright flowers that give India’s Silicon Valley its other nickname, the Garden City, put on a spectacular show. You’ll see the asymmetrical mauve and pink blossoms of the purple bauhinia, as well as Indian laburnum, or golden shower trees, with their cascading branches of bright yellow flowers.

“A morning walk in Lalbagh Botanical Garden or Cubbon Park is always wondrous,” says Siddhant Chalke, Chief Concierge at Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru. “Just strolling through the trees – some of which are very interesting and ancient – brings joy.”

To help guests celebrate this season of renewal, the Hotel has launched a special wellness experience. The Flower at Four Seasons program is “inspired by fragrances of marigold, rose, geranium and jasmine, which you might encounter on the garden walks in Bangalore’s iconic neighbourhoods,” says Spa Manager Minu Budhatoki. “The treatment is a full-body massage that guests adore. It starts as a sensuous journey and leaves you feeling joyfully uplifted. Our wellness experts can release knotted muscles but also help heal stress in a serene environment.”

 

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Baseball and Blooms in Chicago

To hear Kristen Klus, Guest Manager & Chief Concierge at Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, tell it, the Windy City is completely transformed when winter ends. “Spring is my favourite season, as the sunshine invigorates Chicagoans and gets the city inspired,” she says. “You see this resurgence of vitality – people are biking, walking and kayaking on the lake.”

The season is on full display at the Hotel, where a special afternoon tea offers a botanical escape high above Michigan Avenue. Enjoy elevated bites and sweet treats crafted by Executive Pastry Chef Juan Gutierrez – winner of the Netflix special School of Chocolate.”

Spring can be seen and heard in other areas of the city: The roar of snow plow motors is replaced by the cheers of White Sox and Chicago Cubs fans, rooting for their favourite teams. And by early April, visitors can see a bold wave of colour along Michigan Avenue as the season’s tulips blossom and greet the world.

Feel refreshed in Chicago

 

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Spring Renewal and Whale Watching on Lanai

Spring is all about renewal. Nourish your mind and body at Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort. The brand’s first all-inclusive wellness retreat aims to start guests on a journey to greater well-being with the help of Sensei Guides and customized programming, including wellness consultations, spa treatments in a private hale, fitness classes, lectures and healthy meals. Whether you’re looking to rest or recharge after a momentous occasion, reset your health or spend quality time with loved ones, Sensei’s botanical art gardens and tropical mountain setting are the ideal backdrop, offering a unique place for discover and renewal.

Focus on wellness on Lanai

At the oceanfront Four Seasons Resort Lanai, fine-tune your golf game with a Trackman session at the Jack Nicklaus-designed Manele Golf Course. Or enjoy a beverage and delicious pupus – appetizers – aboard the Resort’s catamaran, during a sunset cruise along the scenic coastline. It’s also a chance to spot spinner dolphins, turtles and humpback whale spouts. “Through April, the channels that run between Lanai, Maui and Molokai are some of the best waters in the world for whale watching,” says Captain Ricky Etrata. “The crew even has a hydrophone on board so guests can listen as the whales sing to each other.”

Play outside on Lanai

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What’s your ideal spring break?

Cityscape

Great Gatherings: 5 Reasons to Host
Your Event at Four Seasons

What makes an event memorable? Location, unique experiences, delicious food and stunning settings all help. Four Seasons offers the ideal backdrop for gatherings, from business meetings involving both on-site and virtual participants to family milestones like weddings, reunions and birthdays. With the experts at Four Seasons on hand to take care of all the details, you’re free to focus on the people you are with and to be present in the moment.

Make the most of your time together with help from Four Seasons: State-of-the-art function spaces and technology can help your hybrid function run smoothly – and your event coordinator can arrange dinner delivery for guests tuning in from afar, so they feel like they’re part of the action, as well as schedule exclusive activities and experiences for you and your guests. From intimate gatherings to conventions or auto shows, Four Seasons offers the space and service to make every moment meaningful.

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Equipped for hybrid events

Connection matters. At Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort, you can strengthen your bond – both with those joining you in person and those participating from afar. The Resort’s recently expanded meeting and event spaces offer ample room to spread out and are equipped to handle any technical need, from basic sound to full-scale video productions with multiple cameras and web interfacing. Or head outdoors to lush lawns and sunlit terraces – celebrate at the golf course, gather at various poolside settings throughout the Resort’s 5-acre water park, or work with your event planner to arrange a group activity that’s sure to please, like exclusive use of the Spa, a VIP experience at Disney World’s EPCOT or character appearances at group events at the Resort.

Four Seasons can even make a little magic happen for guests dialing in remotely – for example, for a group cooking demonstration, your event planner can arrange for ingredients to be delivered to remote participants so they can cook along with the team in their home kitchen.

Plan your event in Orlando

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Destination: Wedding

From a dreamy beachfront lined with swaying palm trees to a lavish ballroom with breathtaking views of the Red Sea, desert and mountains, Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh offers a picturesque setting for your important moments, complemented by year-round sunshine and world-class Four Seasons service and amenities – like an on-site Dive Centre for those looking to take to the water, four outdoor pools and al fresco dining options that include a Bedouin-style Egyptian feast on the shore of the Red Sea.

A recently completed major expansion and enhancement project doubled the size of the Resort, with new guest rooms and outsized suites for your guests to enjoy and updated event facilities with a unique layout inspired by intimate Arabian villages. Whether you’re planning a small family event or a gala for up to 2,000 guests, you have your choice of indoor and outdoor spaces. Toast your time together with a cocktail reception in the sunlit beachfront garden, or say “I do” in a stylish salon. Your dedicated event planning team will ensure that every moment is memorable.

Say ‘I do’ in Sharm El Sheikh

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Set the scene with historic venues

In the hustle and bustle of a city, it can be difficult to shut out the world to make the most of your time together. Located among the best-known landmarks in London – like Tower Bridge and the River Thames – Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge can give your group the royal treatment. Gaze out over the city from a sky-high terrace, or mark a historic occasion in a special setting: The Hotel’s UN Ballroom was the site of the inaugural reception of the United Nations General Assembly in 1946.

No matter the size of your group, the Hotel’s team of experts can provide anything you need: inventive menus and dining experiences, unparalleled service, and spacious venues showcasing London’s distinctive style. Your event planner can even help you take your group beyond the Hotel with outings like a private after-hours tour of the Tower of London available exclusively to Four Seasons guests, a guided afternoon at Borough Market or a visit to the famed Graffiti Wall. Closer to home, try a craft cocktail class, a wine tasting at the Hotel’s Chateau Latour Wine Tasting Room or an interactive sushi lesson with the Hotel’s sushi chef.

Explore distinctive venues in London

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Room for everyone

When you aren’t bound by space constraints, the possibilities are endless. Showcase more than 100 cars along the main entrance or around the pool deck for a world-class car show, host your guests overlooking the first and 18th holes on the TPC Four Seasons Las Colinas golf course, or choose from more than 31 indoor and outdoor venues spread across 400 acres: At Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas, there’s room for everyone.

Seeking greater privacy? For a truly exclusive gathering, consider a buyout to transform the entire Resort into your own space for maximum security, connection and control. Transform the pool area into a live music venue for your guests, and enjoy total access to Resort amenities like the spa or dining outlets. You’ll enjoy the closeness of community with the space to spread out safely, and with the experts at Four Seasons in charge of all the details, you can be sure your event will wow guests from arrival to departure.

Bring your group to Dallas

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Together in paradise

Treat your guests to a luxury castaway experience at Four Seasons Resort Nevis, where you can say “I do” in the sand beside pristine blue waters or gather for a corporate retreat in sunlit salons that open onto covered terraces ideal for breakout sessions.

You guests’ downtime can be as active or restful as they’d like, from lounging on Pinney’s Beach to teeing off on the Resort’s Robert Trent Jones II golf course or hiking Nevis Peak. Join a guide for an afternoon botanical tour – and be on the lookout for friendly green vervet monkeys native to the island. When it’s time to return home, your guests can take a taste of Nevis with them: a Paw Paw Pepper Sauce they created during a cooking class with a Resort chef.

Celebrate together in Nevis

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Where will you and your group go next?

Palm trees and ocean

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?

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Take the Scenic Route

As summer approaches, many travellers are ready to get out into the world and explore as many new destinations as possible. The best way to get from point A to point B? On four wheels.

There’s nothing like a road trip to immerse you in new places – half the fun of travel is in the journey. You’ll discover spectacular vistas, charming towns, thriving arts scenes, historic architecture and delicious local flavours as you connect with friends and family, going at your own pace to make the most of the trip.

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This season, embark on a European escape, with curated itineraries to make the journey to your Four Seasons destination more enjoyable. Here, Four Seasons experts share the landmarks, flavours and photo opportunities you won’t want to miss along the way.

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London

England’s capital city is an exciting blend of rich history and trend-setting scenes, offering everything from the finest food to the most stylish fashions. Explore iconic landmarks like the Tower of London and Tower Bridge – just steps from Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge – or discover some of the world’s most prestigious shopping on Savile Row, only a short stroll from Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane. See the city in a new light on a luxury private tour by car, or set sail for an exhilarating boat ride on the Thames River – the ideal backdrop for Instagram-worthy photos. You’ll feel like British royalty with exclusive access to some of the city’s palaces and museums, or wander through a picturesque Royal Park to find the perfect spot for a picnic, prepared by the team at Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane. The royal treatment continues as the sun sets: Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge can arrange a private viewing of the stunning Crown Jewels collection at the Tower of London, complete with aperitifs and canapés on Tower Green as the Chief Yeoman Warder shares stories about the tower’s dramatic history.

WORTH A DETOUR: Want to get out of the city for a bit? Take a day trip to the British countryside, where you can wander through lush gardens, ride the rolling hills of Hampshire on horseback or explore picturesque Highclere Castle, where the owner – the eighth Countess of Carnarvon – will lead you on a private tour of the estate’s art, architecture and antiques.

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Lisbon to Madrid

Discover the scenic mountains and medieval villages that dot the Iberian Peninsula as you drive between Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon and Four Seasons Hotel Madrid. The six-hour drive will take you through centuries of history and UNESCO World Heritage sites – Evora, home to Neolithic monuments and an ancient Roman temple, and Toledo, whose historic quarter contains some of Spain’s oldest religious buildings. In search of a real taste of each city? Plan a stop on Lisbon’s coast to savour the Bulhao Pato clams – clams steamed in a rich broth of herbs, lemon and white wine. Once in Madrid, ask the Concierge to direct you to one of the city’s tablaos for a high-energy flamenco performance. The Hotel can even arrange private lessons if you’d like to learn the Andalusian dance.

WORTH A DETOUR: A saying in Portugal’s Alentejo region is that “even time takes its time.” Here, indigenous grape varieties are grown under 3,000 hours of annual sunshine before they’re aged to perfection in French barrels. Follow the Wine Route signs through olive groves and the world’s largest cork oak forest, and pick up a bottle or two from one of the many vineyards. Then stop in a charming town – Portalegre, Nisa, Marvão, Castelo de Vide or Alter do Chão – for a bite to eat.

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Paris

The City of Lights is a feast for the senses: Beautiful scenery, chic fashions, delicious dishes. Explore them all, with Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris as your ideal home base. Cruise the River Seine on a private boat ride, then window-shop as you make your way back to the Hotel along the city’s famed Champs-Élysées. Unwind with a Michelin-starred dinner from Chef Christian Le Squer’s Twenty Years of Excellence menu at Le Cinq, honouring the award-winning chef’s dedication to elegant and modern French cuisine, before toasting your time together on a rooftop terrace overlooking the Eiffel Tower.

WORTH A DETOUR: During your stay in Paris, take a day trip to Maison Belle Époque, the iconic residence of the founders of Perrier-Jouët. Home to the largest private collection of French art nouveau in Europe – and some of the oldest champagne vintages in the world – the house is opening its doors exclusively to Four Seasons guests. Tour the historic villa and its cellars, savour lunch in the gardens, and visit the vineyard before returning to Paris – or opt to spend the night at the maison, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

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Prague to Budapest

Fall in love with these romantic riverside cities – just a day apart – as you marvel at their architecture, culture and old-world charm: Explore historic castles, sip surprising varietals at local wineries, and discover centuries-old craftsmanship and tradition. In Budapest, the Concierge at Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest can arrange a private tour of the archabbey, winery and botanical herb garden at Pannonhalma, Hungary’s oldest abbey and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Near Prague, discover the centuries-old tradition of Bohemia crystal glass-making during a tour of the world-famous Rückl glassworks, arranged by Four Seasons Hotel Prague – you’ll even have the chance to cut or blow a glass object yourself.

WORTH A DETOUR: See Budapest’s Eastern mystique and old-world elegance in a new light: As the sun sets, sail down the Danube River in a Venetian-style speedboat, a glass of champagne in hand. The excursion ends with a “James Bond moment” as the boat picks up speed, whisking you away into the night.

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Istanbul

Perched on both sides of the Bosphorus and lined with the cobbled streets, palaces, mosques and remnants of the Ottoman Empire sits the captivating city of Istanbul. Set out from Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus and explore the rich history and culture of the City on Seven Hills: Start in the harbourside Karaköy neighbourhood – an up-and-coming district home to some of the city’s best art galleries, Turkish bakeries and boutiques, surrounded by Ottoman-era buildings. Then make your way at sunset to the 14th-century Galata Tower, where Ottoman scientist Hezârfen Ahmet Çelebi reportedly used artificial wings to make the first sustained unpowered flight in the 1630s. It was once the highest point in the city and still offers 360-degree views of the streets below – breathtaking when bathed in the rosy glow of the setting sun.

WORTH A DETOUR: Travel back in time in the Sultanahmet neighbourhood, in the oldest part of the city. Visit the iconic Hagia Sophia, a converted mosque that was once the Byzantium era’s largest cathedral and seat of the Holy Roman Emperor, where you’ll uncover hidden mosaics. Next stop: The Blue Mosque, constructed between 1609 and 1616 and filled with tiles in different shades of cobalt. For a refreshing break, dive into the underground Basilica Cistern, the largest freshwater source in Istanbul and surrounded by 336 marble pillars.

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

Where will the road take you on your next adventure?

floral art installation at Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris

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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