In 2021, while sailing the pristine Red Sea off Egypt, I came across a solitary lighthouse juxtaposed against the stunning azure water. In that moment, I craved to introduce more people to a world of travel beyond the ordinary. Hence was born “The Lighthouse” — a series of stories designed to inspire a world of better travel.
The Lighthouse brings together a range of inspirational stories from the world of travel, designed to make our member’s trips more mindful, sustainable and experiential.
Voices
Travel Stories and Inspiration From Founders and Owners Of The Worlds Finest Hotels, Experiences and More.
Frontier travel is redefining travel for those with a taste for the extraordinary. The unexplored edges of the world are calling, blending adrenaline with authenticity in ways that traditional luxury never could.
As an avid traveller, you might find yourself influenced by hotel rankings and best destination awards. But have you ever considered how these lists truly shape your travel choices? Our Founder, Keshav Arya, offers a refreshing perspective on these rankings, helping you see beyond the numbers to understand what truly makes a hotel or destination the 'best.'
Hidden India is a world-class, boutique, uber-luxe conservation travel and hospitality collection focusing on unique destinations, wildlife, culture, and wellness. The Raison d’être can offer personalized experiences à la carte, for the new age purposeful ‘Luxurian’.
The wealthy are often driven by a desire for exclusivity, seeking experiences and possessions unattainable to most by literally following the herd. This directionless competitive pursuit of status and superiority is distorting the genuine concept of luxury travel.
Have you felt disheartened after returning from a “Luxurious” vacation? Chances are you’ve been Luxewashed. Know everything about how hotels & influencers Luxewash, and how can you identify it to save you a big deal on time, effort and of course, money.
In this exclusive interview with the owners of Forestis Hotel—Stefan Hinteregger & Teresa Unterthiner, we delve into the inspirations and philosophy that brought this mountain retreat to life and the vision for travellers to sustainably relax and rejuvenate in the heart of nature.
Our Founder, Keshav Arya shares why we, himself included, religiously give into the wearing act of sightseeing, what makes it compulsive and how we can still pursue it healthily just by including some clever, more immersive experiences in our itineraries.
Planning a trip to Japan and want to venture beyond Tokyo and Kyoto? Azumi Setoda, harboured in the Seto Inland, should be your destination for an authentic Japanese hospitality experience. We interviewed its visionary founder, Adrian Zecha, to bring you exclusive insights about this remarkable new retreat.
We interview General Managers, Managing Directors, and Vice Presidents of Six Iconic Hotels to understand their perspective on defining and providing exceptional service—Here’s what they have to say!
Tourism brings huge amounts of revenue to a local community, but it also brings with it its own set of problems but the solution does not lie in a complete ban. Our Founder, Keshav Arya shares alternative strategies to look at before resorting to a complete ban.
In a delightful interview with tourism pioneer, Malik J. Fernando, Managing Director, Resplendent Ceylon, we get exclusives from his journey in Tourism and his enlightening views on the present and future of tourism in Sri Lanka.
To learn more about this distinctive method, we interacted with Dr. Mubaris Ahamed.T, TAIM Specialist at Zulal Wellness Resort to understand how TAIM is different from Ayurveda, its key elements and treatments and most importantly its long-term benefits.
Through an exclusive conversation with Irem Aldemir, Director of Spa at Peninsula Istanbul get enlightened with how this age-old bathing ritual has been redefined as a luxurious method of relaxation and rejuvenation.
If there is any similarity between the Maldives & the Lakshadweep it is only the fact they’re both Islands and nothing else. This is our Founder, Keshav Arya’s take on the whole Maldives-Lakshadweep debate and why these two destinations are incomparable and cannot be substituted for one another.
Soneva, one of the finest luxury and sustainable hospitality brands, has been secretly curating the next big destination that is sure to be everyone’s bucket list and is straight out of our dreams. We've been led to this long-kept secret by none other than the man himself, Sonu Shivdasani. Who wants the tea?
Consider this my open book moment—here I am, sharing my ultimate travel aspirations with you, spilling the beans on the destinations and adventures that have captured my imagination and inspired me to explore the world in style and with no bounds, whatsoever.
Travelling for one’s wellness has a whole new dimension with the Chenot Method at our disposal. While botanical walks and adrenaline-boosting experiences are at the core of meaningful travel, this is your sign to experience holistic wellness like none other.
In this very insightful interview, the wellness experts at Ananda shared profound Ayurvedic practices aimed at fortifying the body against the deleterious effects of pollution, providing a roadmap to face the umpteen environmental challenges.
If after every ‘expensive’ holiday, you return home with a big bill topped with a lingering sense of dissatisfaction because everywhere you travelled was either overrun or unjustifiably pricey, here's some food for thought to ensure this almost never happens again.
The story of Andaz unfolds as a narrative of innovation, authenticity, and unbridled self-expression making it a symbol of unconventional luxury across the world. Every Andaz property around the world is designed to propel you find your expression and also embrace it.
For those who travel to feed their souls with inspiring tales and unparalleled experiences, this piece, though a touch lengthy, will undoubtedly evoke the desire to plan a trip to this cultural haven where music and warmth reign supreme.
In the spirit of imbibing the transformative nature of travel, our founder, Keshav Arya, has crafted a set of resolutions that extend beyond the typical promises we make to ourselves.
Featuring a myriad of exclusive details about the expansion into New Zealand’s breathtaking geography and other major expansions, Lucy Werner, Chief Commercial Officer, takes us on an insider’s journey you cannot miss.
In an exclusive interview with Alex Glasscock, the Founder and CEO of The Ranch Malibu, we delve into the intricate nuances of this life-enriching methodology presenting a comprehensive overview.
When it comes to travelling, we find it quite odd how no experience is authentically ones own in this world of travelling for the gram. And so Our Founder, Keshav Arya is on a constant quest to make travel different and more enriching for those who dare to take the off-beaten path. Who’s coming with us on this journey?
Our founder, Keshav Arya shares the ultimate rulebook or rather a more profound way of travelling in the post-pandemic reality and it’s everything you need to get the most out of your travels.
Travel transcends luxurious accommodations and globetrotting. It offers an opportunity to forge enduring memories that nourish our souls eternally. These indelible recollections are moulded by love, knowledge, and life's myriad encounters.
Emmy-award-winning-filmmaker, conservationist and Founder of Great Plains, Dereck Joubert’s journey of championing African conservation through holistic wildlife and land preservation.
When border closures trapped Brooke Hall in Bali, she not only rediscovered herself but found indelible hope and magic in the resilience of the Balinese community.
People
Inspirations, Conversations and More, featuring the People Who Make Every Experience Special
Fondue preparation is a delicate art. The Swiss pride themselves on having perfected the process of preparing the most quintessential dish. For the luxury traveler and food enthusiast, however, not just any fondue experience will do. To truly indulge in this culinary art, selecting the right restaurant is fondue-mental. Find out how to ensure your next fondue outing is refined and memorable.
Tis the season! Discover festive fine dining like never before at locations that blend regional traditions with gourmet creativity, ensuring every bite is an indulgent celebration. From Salzburg’s artisanal treats to Vienna’s iconic desserts, savor gourmet menus inspired by regional traditions crafted with elegance and seasonal flair.
Plan a premier heli-skiing experience in untouched powder and exclusive alpine terrain, featuring expert-guided access to remote slopes, pristine runs, and luxury amenities. Through exclusive access to remote terrain and high-end amenities, Eleven offers an experience where adventure and luxury go hand in hand, making each journey unforgettable.
Want to know what it’s like to experience one of the most breathtaking destinations in the world—Antarctica? We chat with the on-ground expedition team from Quark Expeditions to get you as close as possible to experiencing this icy marvel and the untouched beauty of the polar wilderness.
If you enjoy vibrant nightlife and unique dining experiences, Soho London should be at the top of your wishlist. These first-hand recommendations will ensure you get the most out of your London trip and how!
Securing Michelin-star tables is not everyone’s feat, especially in an urban metropolis like NYC, so we chat with Aman New York’s Concierge Team to know the failproof ways they secure tables at starred restaurants for their guests without breaking a sweat.
Shinta Mani Mustang’s design, featuring locally sourced materials, traditional Tibetan conch shells, and Sanskrit poems engraved on slate, celebrates animism and Mustang's unique culture in complete honesty.
From homemade pasta like Orecchiette to iconic cheeses like Burrata, Puglian food captures the essence of traditional Italian cooking while showcasing the unique flavours and ingredients that are primitive to the region.
Whether you're a thrill-seeker wanting to conquer the skies or a nature admirer wanting to experience Oman with a bird’s-eye view, the paragliding and microlighting experiences here promise an adventure like no other.
Family holidays spent basking in breathtaking destinations and luxuriating in star properties are the ultimate dream. However, there's a missing piece to the puzzle when it comes to crafting truly unforgettable family holidays.
Places
Where to Go, Where To Stay and Where to Play
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Siem Reap, Cambodia, Park Hyatt’s elegant property offers an experience that blends indulgence with authenticity. From its serene courtyards inspired by Khmer architecture to its immersive cultural activities, every detail has been designed to connect guests with the spirit of Cambodia.
From barefoot luxury on uninhabited islands to Michelin-starred dining experiences and curated urban adventures, these travel stories showcase how every moment can be elevated when paired with exceptional hospitality and thoughtful design. Prepare to be inspired by these tales of unforgettable escapes.
In a land where every detail tells a story and every moment feels curated for both pleasure and introspection, the Four Seasons Nam Hai offers more than just a stay—it’s an immersion into the soul of Vietnam. Check our first-hand review.
Timelessly designed by Paolo Moschino in collaboration with Olga Polizzi, Director of Design, Rocco Forte Hotels, this address seamlessly blends modern elements, textures and structures with Milan’s à la mode design aesthetics.
From how to navigate the festival like a local to securing reservations and experiencing Munich's cultural richness beyond the beer tents, Lena Speckmeyer, the Head Concierge at The Charles offers clever insights and advice for making the most of Oktoberfest.
With its open spaces, sustainable ethos, and world-class events, it’s the perfect destination for party lovers looking to experience both the electric nightlife and the authentic energy of Bali.
Both journeys are exquisite family adventures, carefully crafted to provide quality time with loved ones. They offer the perfect blend of exploring nature’s wonders and indulging in the finest luxuries, from opulent accommodations to gourmet cuisine.
Whether you want to wander through the city, take a plunge into the waters or embrace the wild—we’ve curated a selection of destinations you must experience Next Month, Next Season or next Year for an unmatched perspective of these places.
From exploring iconic landmarks within a few steps to enjoying modern comforts, Six Senses Rome seamlessly blends classic tradition with opulence, making it the perfect haven for those looking for an ultra-luxurious yet historical stay experience.
From Islands to the Alps—we’ve got something for everyone. Start planning your 2024 trips with PureLuxe to get easy visas, the best flight tickets, tailor-made itineraries and amazing benefits at partner hotels across the world.
These trips are all a testament that panning different horizons solo or with your loved ones in tow brings you back to life, gives you a break from the humdrum of routine and sets you free. It’s important, you soak it all in, while you’re at it.
This wellness retreat transcends the typical getaway, it is a detox for the soul–a transformative experience that promises to revitalise your body, mind, and spirit in the most divine setting.
Future
How Travel Make Us Better People, and the Planet a Better Place.
As the temperatures drop and days shorten, locals in the Nordic region find comfort in ancient traditions and sensory rituals that connect them deeply to the season and to each other. These traditions offer travelers a chance to discover the beauty and depth that winter brings to life in the far north.
We chat with Tori Somerville, General Manager of Luxury Lodges of Australia to gain exclusive insights into unique wildlife encounters, what to expect across different seasons, Australia's delicate ecosystem, and sustainability practices.
Mr Birch eloquently reveals how Amansara weaves together the threads of Cambodia’s rich history, spiritual depth, and artistic brilliance, creating a space that enhances journeys with the wholesomeness, Cambodian life has to offer.
This private island is the epitome of conservation, offering unparalleled luxury in the lap of nature. With a rich history spanning over 50 years, Fregate Island promises an experience that nourishes the soul and enchants the spirit.
This luxury hotel, akin to a fine art museum, offers the added delight of sleeping surrounded by exquisite art and savouring meals amidst its staggering collections. No art lover could desire anything more. With every corner beaming with inspirational art, your stay will be nothing short of an artsy dream.
If you've ever found yourself staring blankly at your child’s suitcase, wondering if you've packed everything they need for an enjoyable and comfortable vacation, you’re not alone! We’ve gathered expert advice from five luxury resorts on what they consider must-haves for kids during a vacation.
From the remarkable success story of Solio Conservancy in rhino conservation to the unique community partnership of Sasaab, we uncover how luxury travel intertwines with and supports the noble goals of wildlife protection and sustainable development.
Get into the stories behind the stitches through designer Kresha Bajaj's unique insights that unfurl the secrets of this captivating land—one inspiration at a time.
In an enlightening interview, we uncover how Awasi is redefining luxury travel by seamlessly integrating eco-conscious practices into every facet of the guest experience and their every endeavour.
In our exclusive interview with Olivia Foster, Marine Biologist at Six Senses Zil Pasyon we dive into the nuances of crafting bespoke snorkelling and diving experiences suitable for families, intertwining the thrill of exploration with meticulous planning and safety considerations.
This is your call to explore the Sumbanese culture for adventure in a world rarely seen boasting of vibrant ancient traditions, warm human connections, and a soul-stirring personal experience.
We talk to Andrea Spalletti Trivelli, who is the fifth-generation owner of Villa Spalletti Trivelli, to discover Rome's charm as a paradise for art lovers and find out about unique artworks in the nooks and corners of the city.
Discover the seamless fusion of luxury and wildlife conservation at Singita. In this enlightening interview, we delve into strategies inspiring luxury travellers about the paramount importance of preserving our planet's biodiversity.
News & Updates
The Latest News, Views and More From The World of Travel
In the world of luxury travel, few things captivate the imagination quite like a new hotel—the promise of unprecedented design and transformative experiences. In 2024, some extraordinary properties redefine indulgence, each designed to transport travelers into realms of sophistication. From the wild heart of Kenya to the serene shores of Seychelles, let’s journey through these elite havens.
As the industry evolves, the focus on creating meaningful, shared experiences is at the forefront of luxury travel. Whether it’s a family reunion in a private villa or a corporate brainstorming retreat in the Alps, group travel is poised to redefine how luxury travelers explore the world.
This year, we are witnessing a cooling-off period for those previously over-touristed destinations with an influx of alternative luxury experiences and a fascinating supply in the making with new hotel openings.
Whether you’re dreaming of a last-minute holiday, a beach getaway, or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, timing is everything. So, let’s get your holiday planning started the right way, so you can focus on what matters most—making memories.
As one of the world's fastest-growing aviation markets, India is at the precipice of a new era, marked by innovation, connectivity, and unparalleled opportunities.
From exclusive rates offered through preferred agents like us to a favourable economic climate, there are several factors contributing to the potential savings on summer holidays this year. Know all about it here.
With trending reels and beautifully captured moments, it is quite normal to give in to Instagram travel trends over seeking authentic experiences and that’s why we’re here to bring you back to reality which can be far more beautiful than the virtual presentation.
Whether you yearn for cultural encounters, want to seclude amid the charm deserts or experience beachfront bliss—this is our exclusive list of the hottest places to see and stay at in 2024.
Thinking about a Last-Minute New Year Getaway? Don’t let the worry of hotel availability and tourist crowds dampen your spirits. Check out this list of our favourite destinations perfect to wrap your year on a high note.
Forget the crowded hotspots and clichéd itineraries because we’re here to open up your world to a whole new landscape of unexplored, lesser-known vacation spots.
Opting out of peak season may sound unconventional, but take our word for it – it's a savvy move. Say goodbye to bustling crowds and exorbitant prices, all whilst embracing a more enjoyable travel experience.
Explore the most anticipated hotel launches of 2023. From a revamped coastal gem to Tokyo's long-awaited debut of Janu – find all the newly opened properties in your favourite destinations.
Explore a range of incredible journeys through the worlds most unique locations, with incredible experinces and unparalled access
Luxury travellers are now seeking silent travel, a pursuit of something profound. It’s about casting aside the need for validation, trading Instagrammable moments for personal revelation. Across the globe, exclusive retreats are curating experiences where travel is a chance to inhabit each moment fully and awaken to the symphony of the unseen.