Poppy’s Pick of the Week: The Mark Hotel, New York

April 8, 2026

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Hey, I’m Poppy, and for this edition of Poppy’s Pick, I wanted to spotlight a New York stay that feels effortlessly polished, quietly iconic and perfectly placed for a stylish city escape.

If you’re dreaming of crisp Central Park mornings, elegant Upper East Side living and a hotel that feels both exclusive and welcoming, The Mark is a perfect pick for a grown-up New York getaway that feels truly special.

Why Poppy loves it

It’s often said that New York feels like a collection of villages and if that’s the case, The Mark would undoubtedly be the heart of one. It has all the hallmarks of a world class hotel but with a much more personal, residential feel. The location is a huge part of the appeal also, tucked away on a quieter street yet just moments from Central Park and Madison Avenue so you really get the best of both worlds.

About the hotel

The Mark stands out for its sense of space and individuality (something that’s genuinely rare in Manhattan). The rooms and suites feel generous and liveable, designed with personality by Jacques Grange, blending bold design with comfort in a way that feels very “New York.”

It’s also a hotel that goes beyond the expected. Whether it’s arranging something special in Central Park or adding thoughtful touches to your stay, everything feels tailored and effortless.

The Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges brings a real energy to the hotel too stylish but relaxed and always a great atmosphere. It’s as much a destination for locals as it is for guests, which says a lot.

Service is where The Mark truly excels, highly attentive but always discreet. The team has mastered the art of personalisation, making it a favourite among high-profile guests and loyal return visitors. As Anna Wintour perfectly puts it, the staff are “caretakers and stewards of the highest order… they make magic happen every day.”

Perfect for

The Mark is ideal for travellers who want a more refined, low-key luxury experience. It works beautifully for families thanks to the space, but equally for couples or VIP clients who value privacy, style and a sense of ease.

If you’re looking for a New York base that feels like your own Upper East Side apartment (but better) this is it.

Exploring the Big Apple

Staying at The Mark places you in one of New York’s most desirable neighbourhoods. Spend mornings strolling through Central Park, afternoons browsing Madison Avenue’s boutiques and evenings exploring world-class dining and culture nearby. The location allows you to experience the city at your own pace – whether that’s relaxed and refined or buzzing and cosmopolitan.

Poppy’s take

The Mark isn’t just a hotel, it’s a New York institution. It combines the privacy of a luxury residence with the polish of a world-class property, all wrapped up in one of the city’s most coveted addresses.

Ready to book?
Send us an enquiry and we will get you matched to the right experience. Call or Whatsapp us on 0333 305 9912.

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Remote desert luxury | The hotels redefining luxury travel in 2026

April 7, 2026

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There is a clear shift happening in luxury travel.

It is moving away from crowded destinations, overexposed beach clubs and itineraries that feel the same wherever you go. In their place, a new kind of escape is emerging — one defined by space, stillness and experiences that feel genuinely immersive.

Welcome to the rise of remote desert luxury.

From the vast landscapes of Namibia to the ancient rock formations of Saudi Arabia, desert destinations are becoming the choice for travellers who want something more considered. Less about being seen, more about how it feels to be there.

Why desert travel is
having it's moment

Desert environments offer something that is increasingly hard to find in modern travel: perspective.

There is a natural stillness to these landscapes. No crowds, no constant stimulation, no pressure to move quickly from one place to the next. Instead, time slows down.

But this shift is not just about switching off. It is about deeper connection – to the environment, to culture and to the experience itself.

The best desert hotels are designed to reflect this. Architecture blends into the surroundings, materials mirror the tones of the land and experiences are carefully curated rather than over-programmed.

It is luxury that feels intentional.

andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, Namibia

Longitude 131°, Northern Territory, Australia

Our Habitas
AlUla, Saudi Arabia

Set within the dramatic sandstone valleys of AlUla, Our Habitas offers a more mindful take on luxury travel.

The focus here is on wellbeing and cultural immersion. Days are shaped around yoga, sound healing and guided experiences through one of the most historically rich landscapes in the region. The design is minimal, allowing the environment to take centre stage.

It is a place to slow down properly.

Our Habitas AlUla, Saudi Arabia

Amangiri
Utah, USA

Few properties have reached the same status as Amangiri.

Carved into the desert landscape of Utah, it is known for its architectural simplicity and complete sense of seclusion. Clean lines, natural materials and uninterrupted views create a stay that feels both grounding and elevated.

Experiences range from canyon hikes to private desert explorations, but the real appeal is the calm that comes with being completely removed from everything else.

Amangiri, Utah, USA

Longitude 131°
Northern Territory, Australia

Positioned directly facing Uluru, Longitude 131° offers one of the most powerful settings in luxury travel.

Its tented pavilions are designed to frame the landscape, with floor-to-ceiling views of one of Australia’s most iconic natural landmarks. The experience goes beyond the visual, with guided cultural insights that connect guests to the history and significance of the land.

It is both immersive and unforgettable.

Longitude 131°, Northern Territory, Australia

andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
Namibia

Set deep within the Namib Desert, this lodge is designed for complete disconnection.

Suites feature floor-to-ceiling glass, allowing the desert to stretch endlessly in front of you, while the region’s famously clear skies make it one of the best places in the world for stargazing.

Experiences here are raw and elemental; from exploring towering dunes to quiet moments watching the landscape change throughout the day.

andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, Namibia

What connects them?

A classic that still feels current. Eden Rock is co-owned by Jane Spencer Matthews who is also an artist and the hotel carries that creative energy throughout.

Why we love it: when you want sunshine, ease and an iconically good hotel scene, this is the one.

Planning a desert escape
properly

Desert travel is not something to piece together on a comparison site.

The best experiences come from understanding the nuances; when to go, which room categories are worth it, how to combine destinations and which properties truly deliver on what they promise.

That is where working with a specialist makes the difference.

At Travel Seen, our specialists have first-hand knowledge of the hotels we recommend, alongside access to preferred rates, upgrades and added value that are not always available when booking independently.

If you are considering a remote desert escape, we will help you plan it properly – from the first idea through to the final details.

Start planning your next escape

If you are looking for something beyond the expected, desert destinations offer a completely different perspective on luxury travel.

Speak to a Travel Seen specialist and start planning your next escape →

Ready to book?
Send us an enquiry and we will get you matched to the right experience. Call or Whatsapp us on 0333 305 9912.

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Sardinia | Where celebrities go to disappear in style

April 3, 2026

Uncategorized

There are beach destinations and then there’s Sardinia. Long favoured by royalty, supermodels and low key billionaires, this Italian island has quietly evolved into one of Europe’s most exclusive summer playgrounds. Think turquoise waters that rival the Caribbean, rugged coastlines dotted with mega yachts and a social scene that feels like a more discreet, less try hard cousin of Saint-Tropez.

At the heart of it all is Costa Smeralda, the glossy stretch of coastline originally developed in the 1960s for elite travellers and still very much the place to see and be seen.

Who's been spotted there

Sardinia’s appeal has always been its ability to attract celebrities without the chaos.

Over the years, names like Beyoncé and Jay-Z have holidayed here aboard superyachts, while Kendall Jenner and Leonardo DiCaprio are regulars along the Costa Smeralda circuit. Even royalty, most famously Princess Diana, spent her last vacation here.

The vibe? Understated wealth. No red carpets… just linen shirts, oversized sunglasses and €100M yachts anchored offshore.

Where to stay on the Emerald Coast

Sardinia’s hotel scene is undergoing a serious glow up with major luxury players entering the market in recent years cementing its status as a next-gen hotspot.

Romazzino, A Belmond Hotel – Recently relaunched under the ultra-luxe Belmond portfolio, this iconic beachfront property has been reimagined for a new era of jet-setters.
Hotel Pitrizza (future Cheval Blanc) – Set to become Cheval Blanc’s first Italian property, this ultra-exclusive hotel is undergoing a transformation ahead of its 2026 debut—marking a major luxury power move by LVMH.

Elsewhere, legacy icons like Hotel Cala di Volpe and private villas hidden in the hills continue to attract A-list regulars who prefer privacy over paparazzi.

What to do (beyond beach clubs)

While beach hopping is a given, Sardinia offers more than just sunbeds and rosé.

Boat the Maddalena Archipelago
Charter a yacht and explore the crystalline waters of La Maddalena Archipelago—widely considered some of the most beautiful in Europe.
Lunch in Porto Cervo
The unofficial capital of Costa Smeralda, Porto Cervo is where designer boutiques, polished piazzas, and long lunches collide.
Beach Club Scene
Spend the day at Phi Beach for sunset DJ sets or Cala Brandinchi for a more laid-back, Caribbean-style escape.
Go Inland for Authentic Sardinia
Swap yachts for culture in the island’s interior—think traditional agriturismos, ancient ruins, and a slower, more authentic rhythm of life.

Sardinia's next chapter in luxury

Sardinia is entering its next chapter. With the arrival of brands like Belmond and Cheval Blanc plus ongoing luxury investment across the Costa Smeralda, it’s shifting from old money favourite to new luxury frontier.

What makes it special though, is that it hasn’t lost its edge. It’s still raw, still rugged and still just under the radar enough to feel exclusive.

If Capri is the show off and Saint-Tropez is the party, Sardinia is the insider’s choice. The place you go when you don’t need to prove anything, but still want the best of everything.

The Travel Seen take

For us, Sardinia is the kind of place that doesn’t try too hard and doesn’t need to. It’s confident, understated and quietly impressive in all the right ways. That’s what keeps it interesting and why we’d keep going back.

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Poppy’s Pick of the Week: OKU Ibiza

April 1, 2026

Uncategorized

Hey, I’m Poppy, and for this edition of Poppy’s Pick, I wanted to spotlight a sun soaked Ibiza escape that feels effortlessly cool, beautifully designed and just the right balance of relaxed and indulgent.

If you’re dreaming of sunshine, style and a little escapism, OKU Ibiza is a perfect pick for a grown-up getaway that feels special. Tucked away on the quieter side of the island, it blends laidback luxury with Ibiza’s signature energy.

Why Poppy loves it

There’s something about OKU Ibiza that just works. It’s chic without trying too hard — think earthy tones, minimalist design and a calm, bohemian feel that instantly puts you at ease. The pool scene is a standout: one of the largest on the island, with daybeds, DJs and that perfect balance of buzz and relaxation. It feels like a sanctuary, but never sleepy.

About the hotel

Set just moments from the gorgeous beaches of Cala Gració and Cala Gracioneta, OKU Ibiza is all about understated luxury. Rooms and suites are spacious and serene, many with rooftop terraces or swim-up access.

The hotel’s Japanese-fusion restaurant, led by a world-class chef, is a destination in itself.. beautifully presented dishes, fresh flavours and a setting that feels special without being formal. Add in a sleek spa, outdoor yoga and curated music sessions, and you’ve got a hotel that captures the spirit of Ibiza in a more refined way.

Perfect for

Couples looking for a stylish, relaxed escape
Friends who want a social atmosphere without full party chaos
Design lovers and wellness seekers
Anyone who loves Ibiza but prefers the calmer, more elevated side

Exploring the island

Even if you never leave the pool (tempting), Ibiza has so much to explore, from beach hopping to chasing those iconic golden sunsets along the west coast. Wander through the cobbled streets and boutiques of Dalt Vila for a touch of history and charm, or spend a day on the water with a boat trip over to Formentera. The dining scene is just as varied, with everything from rustic beach shacks to glamorous hotspots and of course, no trip is complete without experiencing Ibiza’s legendary clubbing scene, whether that’s a laid-back beach club by day or dancing into the early hours at one of the island’s world famous venues.

Poppy’s take

OKU Ibiza is Ibiza at its most effortlessly cool. It gives you the energy of the island but with space to breathe, somewhere you can fully switch off while still feeling part of the scene.

If your idea of a perfect escape is sunshine, beautiful design, great food and a hint of glamour (without the chaos), this is one you’ll keep coming back to.

Ready to book?
Send us an enquiry and we will get you matched to the right experience. Call or Whatsapp us on 0333 305 9912.

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Inside Jen and Gem’s Alpine Weekend at Armancette

March 30, 2026

Uncategorized

There is something about an Alpine weekend that always delivers.

The fresh air, the mountain views, the excuse to wear great knitwear from breakfast onwards and in this case, the kind of hotel that makes the whole trip feel even better. On a recent weekend away, Jen and Gem headed to the Alps for a few days of skiing, good food and first-hand hotel research, with Armancette becoming the standout base of the trip.

And while there was plenty of polished luxury to take in, it was also exactly the sort of weekend we love most – fun, a little chaotic at times, a few falls on the slopes, lots of laughs and the kind of experiences that remind us why getting out there and seeing hotels properly matters so much.

A hotel that
sets the tone

From the moment they arrived, Armancette felt like the right kind of mountain hotel.

Set in Saint-Nicolas de Véroce, just above Saint-Gervais-les-Bains and within easy reach of Megève, Armancette offers a more peaceful and understated take on an Alpine escape, with Mont Blanc views and a setting that feels a world away from busier ski hubs.

It has that beautiful balance of being luxurious without feeling stuffy, stylish without trying too hard and intimate in a way that immediately makes you relax. Set against an incredible Alpine backdrop, it felt calm, elevated and quietly confident – the sort of place that lets the setting do the talking.

For Jen and Gem, it was the perfect base. Somewhere that gave them the full mountain experience but with all the warmth, comfort and polish you want from a luxury stay.

Rooms that feel refined
rather than overly styled

One of the things Armancette gets very right is the accommodation itself. The hotel has just 19 rooms and suites, which immediately gives it a more intimate, boutique feel than some of the larger Alpine properties nearby.

The rooms are individually designed, generous in size and finished in a way that feels polished without losing that mountain warmth; think noble materials, soft textures and views that make you want to slow down for a minute before rushing off to the slopes.

It is that smaller scale that really worked for Jen and Gem. After full days out skiing, it felt like the kind of place you wanted to come back to, calm, comfortable and chic without ever feeling formal.

The spa is a real
part of the experience

For a ski weekend, the wellness side of a hotel matters, and Armancette does this particularly well. The spa and wellness area looks directly onto the mountains and includes a heated indoor-outdoor swimming pool, indoor jacuzzi, two outdoor jacuzzis, a sauna, steam room, treatment rooms and a 24-hour fitness space.

It is not just a token hotel spa, it feels like a proper part of the stay, especially after a day on the slopes.

That balance of active and restorative is a big part of what made the weekend work so well. Ski, reset, eat well, do it all again.

Michelin-starred
dining that elevates the stay

Another thing that really sets Armancette apart is the food. Its signature restaurant, La Table d’Armante, holds a Michelin star and is led by chef Thomas Vonderscher, with a menu built around local and seasonal produce. Michelin describes the space as plush and cosy, with the kitchen celebrating ingredients such as fish from Lake Geneva and regional duck, which says a lot about the standard and sense of place they are aiming for.

That matters because it means the hotel is not simply a beautiful base near the slopes – it is a destination in its own right. For Jen and Gem, that made the whole stay feel more complete. You had the skiing and the mountain energy during the day, then a hotel experience in the evening that still felt elevated and special.

Skiing, a few falls and
great times in Megève

Of course, this was not a trip spent sitting quietly in a robe the whole time.

Jen and Gem are both lovers of a ski weekend, so the days naturally included plenty of time on the slopes – along with a few inevitable falls, which only added to the fun. That is part of the charm of these trips. However polished the setting, the best ski weekends still have that slightly chaotic, laugh-about-it-later energy.

A real highlight was heading over to La Folie Douce in Megève, which brought that classic après-ski shift in mood: lively, fun and full of personality after a day in the mountains. It gave the weekend that extra layer of energy and reminded us that the best Alpine escapes are never just about the hotel, but about the rhythm of the whole trip.

One of the standout evenings was dinner at La Fruitière, next door, which felt like the perfect continuation of the day. After skiing and après, it was exactly where you wanted to end up; good food, great atmosphere and that cosy but elevated Alpine mood that makes mountain dinners feel especially satisfying. It is those combinations that make a trip memorable: a beautiful base, brilliant food and enough fun in the mix to stop it all feeling too polished.

Why Armancette stood out

What made Armancette such a success for this trip was that it gave Jen and Gem the best of both sides of an Alpine weekend. It had the intimacy, comfort and high standard you want from a luxury mountain hotel, but it also placed them perfectly for the skiing, the social side and the kind of moments that actually bring a trip to life.

Inspired by Jen and Gem’s weekend? We can help you book your own Armancette escape and tailor the wider experience around how you like to travel.

Ready to book?
Send us an enquiry and we will get you matched to the right experience. Call or Whatsapp us on 0333 305 9912.

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The South of France: The Ultimate Celebrity Playground

March 27, 2026

Uncategorized

There’s something undeniably magnetic about the South of France. Maybe it’s the golden Mediterranean light, the impossibly blue coastline or the effortless blend of glamour and privacy. Whatever the secret, this stretch of coastline has become one of the world’s most enduring celebrity playgrounds.

From Hollywood legends to modern icons, the Riviera has long drawn the world’s most recognisable names, not just for the parties, but for the lifestyle.

Where the celebrities go

Saint-Tropez remains the beating heart of Riviera celebrity culture. Supermodel Kate Moss is a long time regular, often spotted at the legendary Club 55, while football star Neymar and broadcaster Piers Morgan have all spent summers here soaking up the scene.

During peak season (and especially around the Cannes Film Festival) the guest list expands dramatically. Actress Nina Dobrev has been known to island hop along the coast before arriving in Saint-Tropez by helicopter, embracing the Riviera’s signature mix of ease and extravagance.

Meanwhile, the quieter corners of the Côte d’Azur attract a different kind of star power. Over the years, icons like Madonna, Sharon Stone, Steven Spielberg and Robert Redford have retreated here, drawn by the promise of privacy as much as prestige.

Even earlier, cultural greats such as Pablo Picasso, Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald helped define the Riviera as a place where creativity and indulgence naturally intertwine.

The hotels that define riviera glamour

The South of France isn’t just about where you go — it’s about where you stay.

At the centre of it all is Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc — widely considered the Riviera’s most iconic address and today remains the unofficial headquarters for A-listers during Cannes.

Other standout stays include:

Carlton Cannes – a Belle Époque landmark overlooking La Croisette, synonymous with film festival glamour
Airelles Saint Tropez – a hilltop palace offering panoramic views and ultra-private villas
Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat – a serene, ultra-luxurious retreat prized for its discretion and timeless elegance

These aren’t simply hotels they’re institutions. Places where deals are made over chilled rosé, film stars unwind between premieres and privacy is as carefully curated as the view.

Beach Clubs, dining & riviera rituals

Life on the Riviera revolves around a simple rhythm: long lunches, late afternoons by the sea and evenings that stretch effortlessly into night.

In Saint-Tropez, beach clubs set the tone. Club 55 remains the most iconic, while Nikki Beach Saint-Tropez offers a more high-energy, champagne-fuelled scene. For lunch with a view, La Guérite near Cannes pairs Mediterranean plates with a lively, sun soaked atmosphere. Dining across the coast is effortlessly elegant from seaside classics in Antibes to chic hotspots like Loulou Ramatuelle. And, of course, time on the water is essential. Charter a yacht, cruise past Cap d’Antibes and anchor in one of the region’s hidden coves.

Why the rivera still reigns

What makes the South of France so irresistible to celebrities isn’t just the luxury, it’s the balance.

You can spend the afternoon aboard a yacht off Saint-Tropez, retreat to a secluded villa in Cap d’Antibes by evening and step onto a red carpet in Cannes the next day.

It’s glamour without effort. Privacy without isolation. And a lifestyle that feels cinematic at every turn.

The South of France doesn’t try to impress, it simply exists that way.

The Travel Seen take

The South of France is more than a coastline, it’s a lifestyle. Golden light, azure waters and timeless elegance set the stage,. While iconic hotels and hidden villas offer comfort, privacy and understated glamour. Days drift between beach clubs, sun soaked lunches and leisurely yacht excursions and evenings unfold effortlessly in charming towns or along the Croisette.

It’s a place where luxury feels natural, privacy is respected and every moment, from the sea to the terrace, is quietly cinematic. The Riviera doesn’t chase attention; it simply exists as one of the world’s most irresistible escapes.

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Poppy’s Pick of the Week: Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá

March 25, 2026

Uncategorized

Hey, I’m Poppy, and for this edition of Poppy’s Pick, I wanted to spotlight a Roman escape that feels both indulgent and deeply atmospheric.

There are city breaks, and then there are stays that completely shift your pace and perspective. Tucked just moments from the Vatican yet wrapped in serene gardens, Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá offers a rare kind of calm in the heart of the Eternal City – where history, wellness and understated luxury come beautifully together.

Why Poppy loves it

A hidden oasis in the city: Despite being right in central Rome, the hotel feels worlds away. Lush gardens, palm-lined paths and peaceful terraces create a sense of total seclusion – a rarity in such a vibrant, bustling destination.

Effortlessly elegant design: Interiors strike that perfect balance between classic Roman grandeur and modern softness. Think warm tones, marble bathrooms, private terraces and light-filled rooms that feel calm, refined and quietly luxurious.

Dining that feels like an occasion: From long, sun drenched breakfasts to candlelit dinners, the food here leans into fresh Mediterranean flavours with a polished edge – ideal whether you’re celebrating or simply slowing down.

Wellness woven into the stay: The spa and pool area offer a welcome reset after a day exploring. Treatments, steam rooms and tranquil lounging spaces make it easy to slip into a slower rhythm.

The Experience

There’s something incredibly special about stepping out into the energy of Rome, wandering cobbled streets, discovering hidden piazzas, soaking up centuries of history, and then returning to what feels like your own private retreat. At Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá, that contrast is part of the magic.

Mornings begin slowly, perhaps with coffee overlooking the gardens, before heading out towards nearby icons like St. Peter’s Basilica or the charming streets of Trastevere. Afternoons are for poolside lounging or a restorative spa moment and evenings unfold with aperitivos and soft golden light filtering through the trees.

Perfect for

A romantic city escape: It’s intimate, peaceful and effortlessly elegant, ideal for couples wanting Rome without the chaos.

A special celebration stay: Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary or simply a “just because” trip, it has that elevated, memorable feel.

Wellness and culture: Perfect if you want to balance sightseeing with genuine rest and relaxation which is not always easy in a city like Rome.

Families wanting calm and convenience: Surprisingly family friendly, the spacious rooms, gardens and pool give little ones room to breathe, while the central location makes sightseeing easy and manageable – a rare combination in Rome.

Little touches that stay with you

It’s the details that really define this place; the quiet of the gardens at sunrise, the scent of citrus in the air, the gentle, attentive service that never feels overdone. Even small moments, like returning to a perfectly turned down room after dinner feel considered and calm.

Poppy’s take

A stay here feels like discovering a softer, more restorative side of Rome, where you can dip into the city’s energy, then retreat into stillness whenever you need it.

As members of Meliá Bravos Programme, clients that book with Travel Seen enjoy a host of elevated, quietly luxurious benefits designed to make every moment feel even more seamless:

Priority room upgrades
Daily complimentary breakfast
Early check-in or late check-out
Hotel credit to spend on dining or spa treatments
VIP welcome amenities
Personalised service and recognition

Ready to book?
Send us an enquiry and we will get you matched to the right experience. Call or Whatsapp us on 0333 305 9912.

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Why Padel escapes are becoming luxury travel’s new favourite format

March 23, 2026

Uncategorized

There was a time when a luxury short break meant a spa, a beach club and a dinner reservation you’d been looking forward to for weeks. Now, for a growing number of travellers, the ideal escape still includes all of that – but with a few hours on court, a sense of community and a little healthy competition woven in.

Enter the padel trip.

As padel continues its rise, the travel world is starting to respond. What makes it especially suited to travel is that it is not purely about performance. Unlike more solitary fitness-led breaks, padel is inherently social. It works for couples, friendship groups, colleagues and mixed ability groups. You can arrive as a keen player or a complete beginner and still feel part of the energy around it.

That is exactly why padel trips are becoming so appealing. They sit in a sweet spot between sport and lifestyle. You get movement without the intensity of a bootcamp. You get structure to the day without feeling over-programmed. You get a shared experience, but one that still leaves plenty of room for long lunches, pool time, sunset drinks and dinners that feel worth dressing up for.

A new kind of
luxury escape

In many ways, the padel trip reflects a wider shift in how people want to travel now.

Luxury is no longer only about stillness or indulgence. More often, it is about balance. Travellers want beautiful hotels and exceptional food, but they also want a trip to feel energising, memorable and connected. They want something to do, not in an overly scheduled way, but in a way that gives the days shape and creates a natural rhythm.

That is where padel works so brilliantly. It gives the escape a focal point. Mornings feel purposeful, afternoons feel earned and evenings flow naturally into the social side of the destination. Rather than simply lying by the pool all day, you are part of something – whether that is a coaching session, a relaxed tournament or a post match lunch with new people.

More than just a
sport led holiday

What makes padel travel so attractive is that it is not really about sport alone.

The best padel escapes blend movement, leisure and atmosphere in equal measure. One moment you are on court, the next you are having lunch in the sunshine, stretching out by the pool or getting ready for dinner somewhere that feels distinctly of the destination. It is active, but never harsh. Social, but never overdone.

That is why the format works for such a wide mix of travellers. For friendship groups, it offers a shared experience with a bit of playful competition. For couples, it brings a sense of energy and fun to a long weekend away. For work trips or modern incentive travel, it offers a more relaxed and contemporary take on connection and team bonding.

It feels less corporate than a traditional work retreat and more engaging than a standard leisure break. In other words, it feels incredibly modern.

Why Ibiza is the
perfect setting

There are few places better suited to this kind of experience than Ibiza.

The island already lends itself to a certain style of travel: sunshine, beautiful design, laid-back glamour and an easy day-to-night energy that makes even a short trip feel full. But beyond its well known party reputation, Ibiza also offers a more refined side – one built around wellness, elevated dining, social beach culture and a strong sense of lifestyle.

That makes it a particularly smart destination for a padel led escape. You are not just going for the game. You are going for the wider atmosphere around it.

A day in Ibiza can hold all of those contrasts effortlessly; coaching and tournament play by day, time by the pool in the afternoon and rooftop cocktails or dinner by evening. The destination does a lot of the work for you.

Introducing
Luxx Collective x XPI Padel Ibiza

That is exactly why the new Luxx Collective x XPI Padel Ibiza experience feels so well judged.

Rather than being positioned as a traditional sports package, it has been designed as a curated four-day island escape for those who want to play hard and unwind in style. The itinerary blends world-class padel sessions with luxury dining, curated downtime and experiences that tap into Ibiza’s vibrant social energy.

Guests arrive from the UK and head to Mongibello for check-in, juices and pastries before transferring to Bubble Padel Club for their first afternoon session with Spanish coaches, tailored to the group’s level and requirements. From there, the trip unfolds across a mix of tournament play, local social matches, club lunches and time to relax.

The second and third days bring a stronger competitive element, with mix-in tournaments alongside local residents, island-versus-you style matches, prizes and drinks, balanced by poolside downtime and dinners at elevated Ibiza favourites such as Bambuddha and Tapas Ibiza. There is even the option to continue the evening at one of the island’s iconic spots, such as Pikes, for those who want to lean into Ibiza after dark.

Then on day four, the pace softens. Guests can spend the day relaxing by the pool, heading out on an e-bike tour, joining a Kundalini yoga session or fitting in more padel before heading home.

The future of sport-led travel

Padel escapes also tap into a broader evolution within luxury travel. More travellers are looking for experiences that feel active and immersive without becoming punishing. They want trips that are social and stylish, but still leave room for rest. They want to come back feeling both relaxed and energised.

That is exactly what this format delivers.

The padel trip is not replacing the classic luxury escape. It is refining it for a new kind of traveller – one who still wants the beautiful setting and the excellent hospitality, but also wants a trip to feel alive.

And perhaps that is why this style of travel is gaining momentum. It offers all the pleasure of a glamorous getaway, but with a built-in sense of connection, movement and modern leisure.

Because sometimes the best kind of escape is one where you come home with a tan, a few new friends and a slightly improved backhand.

Considering the trip?

The Luxx Collective x XPI Padel Ibiza experience will run in May and June 2026, with prices from £1,495 per person, excluding flights.

Highlights include:

4-day package
4-star-plus sea view hotel
breakfast included
dinner across 3 nights
international padel coaches
padel court sessions across 3 days
social mix-ins with island players
island competition and prizes
club lunches and soft drinks
souvenir padel T-shirt

Minimum of 8 people per trip. T&Cs apply. Bookable by Luxx Collective.

Ready to book?
Send us an enquiry and we will get you matched to the right experience. Call or Whatsapp us on 0333 305 9912.

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Mustique: The Caribbean’s Ultimate Celebrity Hideaway

Where privacy, luxury and Caribbean charm converge

Set in the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Mustique has earned its reputation as the Caribbean’s premier private island for royalty, rock stars and A-listers.

Most visitors stay in private villas, giving unparalleled privacy and control over their experience, whether relaxing on quiet beaches or exploring hidden coves. Yet for those seeking a central hub, The Cotton House, Mustique’s only full-service boutique hotel, offers elegant rooms, suites and villas with the same discretion and charm that define the island.

The island’s celebrity allure began in the 1960s when British aristocrat Colin Tennant gifted Princess Margaret a plot of land for her honeymoon, where she built the iconic villa Les Jolies Eaux. Over decades, figures like Mick Jagger, David Bowie, Iman, Kate Moss and members of the British royal family have returned, drawn by Mustique’s blend of privacy, natural beauty, and understated luxury.

For those wanting a hotel stay, converted from an old cotton warehouse in 1968 and designed by Oliver Messel, The Cotton House, Mustique’s boutique hotel and social hub, blends villa style privacy with hotel convenience across 17 rooms, suites, and The Residence, while its Great Room Bar, Veranda Restaurant and Beach Café & Bar host cocktails, casual and elegant dining, embodying the island’s exclusive yet welcoming, luxurious yet unpretentious ethos.

Beyond private villas and The Cotton House, Mustique’s social life thrives in casual ways that keep it warm and welcoming:

Basil's Bar

The legendary Basil’s Bar is perhaps the island’s most famous gathering spot. Open-air, perched above a small bay, and accessible to villa owners and hotel guests alike, it’s a mixing place for the community, famous for sunset cocktails, impromptu music sessions, and friendly conversations. Celebrities may be present, but the bar’s relaxed vibe ensures everyone feels at home… it’s discreet, iconic, and social without being showy.

Island Picnics

On weekends or special occasions, the island hosts community style picnics, often on beaches or in gardens, where everyone is welcome. These gatherings bring together villa residents, hotel guests, and visitors, creating a rare opportunity to mingle with fellow travellers in an informal, celebratory setting – a hallmark of Mustique’s charm.

Mokes

Mustique’s preferred mode of transportation is the Moke – small, open-air vehicles ideal for tropical roads and island sightseeing. These quirky cars offer a fun, breezy way to explore hidden beaches, villas and coves, keeping the island’s pace relaxed and informal while connecting villa stays, The Cotton House, Basil’s Bar nd picnic spots effortlessly.

Guests return to Mustique for the ultimate blend of villa privacy, the elegant hub of The Cotton House, vibrant yet relaxed Caribbean energy at Basil’s Bar and island picnics, breezy Moke adventures and the freedom to connect (or disappear) at their own pace.

Get in touch today to start planning your trips

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great times in Megève

A new kind of
luxury escape

More than just a
sport led holiday

Why Ibiza is the
perfect setting

Introducing
Luxx Collective x XPI Padel Ibiza