“Discover a Glimpse into the Trips we curate so Wholeheartedly, and get Inspired for Your Next Journeys.” — Keshav Arya, Founder PureLuxe
We’re sure you’ve often wondered what difference it makes to hire a luxury travel agency when everything you need to plan your travels is right at your fingertips. All we can say is hear it from our clients!
For the first time ever, we present to you a series dedicated to our Client Journeys in collaboration with our Clients. This is a compilation of trips that we so dedicatedly curate for our guests which they then reviewed so we could share the magic they experienced with you.
At last, you can stop wondering if what we offer is too good to be true and witness the magic firsthand through these bespoke journeys meticulously designed, planned, and executed for our valued clients and members. This feature is divided into three parts, showcasing 3 unique journeys: A Northern Lights escapade for a Group of 8 marking a pre-birthday celebration; a dive expedition in Wakatobi for a Family of four; and a truly special 40th Birthday celebration across Europe.
Part 1 | Northern Lights Trip - Group of 8 Friends
Expectations from the Trip
This trip with my friends was my pre-birthday celebration bash. I wanted to go to a place that none of us in my group had been to and as per certain travel influencers, the year 2024/ 25 was supposed to be the best year for watching the northern lights.
The Northern Lights tour date was confirmed at the very end before our departure. This was due to the reason they had to check the weather forecast and decide on the dates. We were super lucky to have seen the lights on the first day of our arrival in Norway.
But what was beyond my expectations was the beautiful country of Finland. I’ve travelled to a lot of countries, but nothing could match this beauty. It was absolutely magical like living in a fairyland
Therefore, Norway and Finland were definitely the right choices, and yes I would say they lived up to my expectations and beyond. Stunning!
Favourite Moments
1. My most favourite was feeding the reindeer experience. we had to go up the mountain on a ledge, feed the Reindeer, and come back.
2. The second one I would say is the snowmobile excursion
3. Next the husky sledge
4. And of course the lights
Advice for Visitors
My advice would be they have to go with an experienced operator who is very well aware of these destinations. The reason is that these destinations are not very familiar to a lot of operators in India. Therefore without a doubt, Keshav (PureLuxe Founder) and his team did a fabulous job. My friends who joined me on this trip were absolutely impressed with the entire planning and execution. Great Job!
Part 2 | Wakatobi Trip - Family of 4
Expectations from the Trip
We were expecting a relaxing holiday focused on scuba diving. And this is exactly what we got! This destination and resort is only centred around diving. We are a family of four, with three divers and one non-diver. We had a Dive Light package (2 dives per day) for the divers and a Dive Light Snorkel package for the non-diver. Their organization and execution around diving is amazing. Right from the dive guides, equipment, and scheduling, to labelling everything (from our equipment, and seats on the boat to the hangers on which our wet suits were hung!) – it was all beautifully personalized and orchestrated.
The dive staff was very qualified. One must point out that this destination is more about the ‘peace’ around diving versus the ‘thrill’ around diving. This means that there are no strong currents, sharks or large aquatic life. It is calm waters, great visibility, beautiful corals and the ability to dive slowly and find time to observe God’s small creatures. It is almost meditative! We were able to spot a small pygmy sea horse on coral and during a night dive on a full moon, even witness coral spawning!
In terms of food and accommodation, it was all incredibly comfortable. We had a two-bedroom pool villa. The resort does not have a common pool so a private pool was useful. This room category had a private butler who was quite helpful. Food-wise, it is a set menu buffet style. The timings are arranged around the dives and are fairly set. We are vegetarians and they were very accommodating. The spread was lavish, the food was fresh and well-made, and the service was exceptional. However, I would say that the food is not the main draw to this vacation. There is just one restaurant and a small bar at the jetty and room service in case required. The alcohol list is adequate.
There are no other activities aside from diving/snorkelling. Sure, there is a village tour, cooking classes etc. but again, not really a draw. There are also some kayaks that you could take out but we never saw anyone do that. There is no elaborate spa infrastructure but they have great massage therapists.
Lastly, it is a bit of a trek to get there. There is a charter flight from Bali which is scheduled on certain days of the week. This is the only way to get there. It leaves around 7 AM and arrives back in Bali around 2 PM. The Wakatobi team makes this transfer super easy and seamless, but one does have to add a day before and perhaps after to the time at Wakatobi thereby extending the total length of the trip.
Favourite moments
Diving and spending time with the family in the water would be the best memories. We also liked the diving community at the resort. Most of them were from America and Europe and very committed to diving with stories from across the world! Everyone would gather at the Jetty Bar towards the end of the day and chat. It was very social.
Advice for Visitors
This is a casual and relaxed place. There is no room for high-heeled shoes and cocktail dresses! In fact, we did not have footwear the entire time! I personally had my phone switched off. It is wonderful to just enjoy the sun, sand and water removed from the rest of the world. If that is not your scene, then please do not visit! Overall we had a wonderful trip and would go back in a heartbeat.
Part 3 | Europe Trip - 40th Birthday
Expectations from the Trip
I had high expectations given our choice of hotels. Yes, each hotel and experience was spot on and I couldn't have asked for anything better! Sonali (Director of Luxury Sales at PureLuxe) did a fabulous job planning everything to a T. We're extremely grateful for all her guidance and assistance both before and during our trip.
Favourite moments
In Paris: Being received at the door of the aircraft in Paris was certainly a first for me. The service at the hotel was impeccable on every level. The breakfast and other meals at the hotel were outstanding and rank as some of our best meals anywhere in the world. The location of the hotel was another hallmark given that the best of Paris is at your doorstep. Our favourite moments were just strolling through the streets and nearby parks (e.g. Jardin des Tuileries) and enjoying the weather and what Paris has to offer.
In Zermatt: The hotel and spa were great. The location was spot on and the staff was extremely polite and helpful. There were multiple instances of the bellboys going out of their way to help us in the snow with our son (who's 3 years old). Furthermore, the ski-room facilities were superb and we very much enjoyed the multiple dining options within the hotel.
In Milan: I thought the service levels at the Park Hyatt were commensurate with Cheval Blanc - everything was outstanding. The hotel bar was superb and the staff was extremely kind and warm. There's no other hotel I'd stay at in Milan apart from this given its location next to the Galleria!
Advice for Visitors
Moving around with a lot of luggage given the length of the trip and different activities (e.g. skiing) can be a challenge. Make sure that your airport/train transfers are booked well in advance and that you potentially have someone to help with the luggage. Our choice of hotels with regards to location was a game changer - e.g. being able to stop by the hotel multiple times a day to drop off our shopping or even relax for a while was ideal.
Stay Tuned to Explore More Destinations Around The World With Our Members. Contact Us to `plan your holidays to the T.
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