Virtuoso Travel Week 2017; Wallace Pierson Travel

2017 Virtuoso Travel Week

You may have seen the pictures of our annual team trip to Vegas where we had the opportunity to meet with hundreds of our Virtuoso Travel Partners. While there was plenty of fun to be had - we also had the opportunity to develop and foster invaluable business relationships while learning about several new product updates.

We spent the better part of each day stationed at our tables, meeting with the suppliers to improve our product knowledge and learn about new updates. Over 5600 participated in the week-long event, representing 103 countries. The mix was about 50/50 Advisors to Suppliers.

After seven hours of daily travel "Speed-dating", evening receptions provided additional opportunities for networking in a less formal setting.

We return home with valuable pieces of information from both the tables and the receptions, and the relationships formed while doing so will help us know who best to recommend when you are ready to take your next trip.

Below, a few of the properties and promotions we learned about are listed.

Please ask your advisor for additional information on anything of interest. Because each property is a member of Virtuoso, a reservation made through Wallace Pierson Travel will include added value amenities that you won't receive if booking direct.

Cruises

UnCruise

Uncruise has some new exciting itineraries in Alaska including new Soft Adventure opportunities

Cruise Lines with New Virtuoso Voyage Sailings

Silver Expeditions, Star Clipper, and Windstar have identified several sailings as “Virtuoso Voyages” in which you will receive additional added value amenities when reserving through Wallace Pierson Travel!

SeaDream

SeaDream is running a Christmas Holiday promotion in which guests can receive $1,000 savings on two sailings over the Christmas Holiday

Azamara overnights in Cuba

Azamara has two upcoming itineraries available on which you can experience the culture of Cuba with an overnight stay in port!

Oceania

Oceania, known for their Food & Beverage excellence, now has Vegan menus available on board

Hurtigruten offers a “money-back” guarantee

Hurtigruten is so sure you’ll view the Northern Lights on their sailings, they are offering a money-back guarantee on select itineraries.

Crystal Releases the schedule for the new Crystal Esprit

Crystal’s new yacht will sail the Caribbean through the winter, then spend the summer off the coast of Croatia.

NCL announces the arrival of their newest ship, the Norweigian Bliss

Custom built for the spectacular, she will cruise Alaska and the Caribbean beginning in the summer of 2018

Australis updates their options for exploring the Chilean Fjords

Explore the Fjords of the southern edge of Tierra del Fuego with the Australis Patagonia Cruise tours on a 4-night sailing – a perfect add-on to an Adeventure in South America!

Aqua Expeditions announces partnership with Jean-Michel Cousteau

Join Jean-Michel Cousteau on board select Aria Amazon & Aqua Mekong departures.

The Jean-Michel Costeau departures add to the other Aqua Expedition Theme Cruises available – Photography, Culinary & Wellness

Seabourn to offer Spa & Wellness programs with Dr Andrew Weil

Dr. Andrew Weil is partnering with Seabourn to create a fleet-wide mindful living program offering guests a holistic spa and wellness experience that integrates physical, social, environmental and spiritual well-being.

Central & South America

A Belmond Train to Lake Titicaca

Belmond now has a train that runs from Cusco to Lake Titicaca. Guests can now take the train from Cusco to Cusco to Machu Picchu or to Lake Titicaca for two amazing experiences

Botique Hotels New to the Virtuoso Network

UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa – In the hart of Trancoso Brazil, the UXUA Casa Hotel and Spa features 11 restored “fishing village” casas around a luxuriant garden and 16th century town square

The Vines Resort & Spa – Situated at the base of the Andes in the heart of the Uco Valley, Argentina’s premier winemaking region, The Vines Resort & Spa is the ultimate retreat for wine lovers (you can try grape stomping) and outdoor adventurers and offers a culinary program from acclaimed Argentine Chef Francis Mallmann.

Explora’s new lodge – the Explora Valle Sagrado

Sacred Valley Located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, explora Valle Sagrado was designed as the base from where you can explore a remote and amazing site: the Sacred Valley of the Incas. All our programs include accommodation, transfers, meals and beverages, and a selection of more than 20 exclusive explorations developed by explora.

Secret Bay Resort on Dominica

Tucked away on the unspoilt nature island of Dominica, Secret Bay is an award-winning small hotel with just eight sustainable luxury villas and bungalows immersed in nature and designed to capture the luxury of time and space. With its unique and personalized service that caters to guest preferences and privacy, Secret Bay is the perfect getaway for a Caribbean honeymoon, private beach wedding, transformative experiences, or otherwise secluded holiday of a lifetime.

Tiamo Resort

Participate in adventure activities in luxury at the Tiamo Resort – Situated on South Andros Island in the Out Islands of the Bahamas, a visit to Tiamo is unlike most other experiences. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, with a private beach, only 10 villas and the Bird’s Nest in our resort, taking a vacation here really does enable you get away from it all. Indulge yourself in tropical surroundings: pristine white-sand beaches, lush green palm groves, and the clearest turquoise waters.

New to the Virtuoso Network

Estancia La Bamba – A perfect place for a pre- or post-cruise, you can experience the pampas without the pomp at Estancia la Bamba de Areco, Relais & Chateaux. A long avenue lined with plane trees leads to the colonial-style building, which features just 11 rooms adorned with dark woods, local artwork and textiles. Go bicycling, get a hot stone massage or join a maté tea tasting; you can watch the gauchos display their equestrian skills or join a trail ride.

North America

Montage Palmetto Bluff

The Montage Palmetto Bluff is running two current promotions for reservations through the end of this year – Enjoy a 4th night free or receive a complimentary connecting room when reserving a 1 Bedroom Suite

The Ritz-Carlton, Washington DC

The Ritz-Carlton, Washington DC has weekend rates available at under $300 per night

Ted Turner Expeditions

Ted Turner Expeditions has three domestic properties and offers an “American Safari” on thousands of acres in the west.

Ojai Valley Inn & Spa

Set on 220-oak studded acres, resort guests can indulge in an abundance of active and peaceful pleasures with a George C. Thomas designed golf course; soul soothing spa therapies at the 31,000 square foot Spa Ojai; instruction that encourages creative consciousness in the Artist Cottage; essential oil blending in the Apothecary; multiple pools and more than five dining outlets with settings that range from fast-casual to fine dining

Salamander Resort & Spa

Leave the D.C. horse race behind and escape to Salamander Resort & Spa in Virginia’s beautiful horse and wine country. Only 20 miles from Washington Dulles, set on 340 rolling acres at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this 168-room equestrian estate features a world-class Equestrian Center and scenic country trails to enjoy on horseback. Of course, there’s more than just horsing around — guests also can experience hands-on cooking classes, go ziplining, relax at the luxurious spa, indulge in an exquisite locally sourced dinner at Harrimans or visit the more than 50 wineries that lie within an hour’s drive.

Nemacolan Woodlands Resort – New to Virtuoso

Situated on 2,000 acres, Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, located in the Laurel Highlands of Southwestern Pennsylvania, features 320 luxurious guestrooms, suites, townhomes and luxury vacation homes, including the Falling Rock boutique hotel, a recipient of the AAA Five-Diamond award. Activity options include 36 holes of championship golf, Sporting Clay, Orvis endorsed fly fishing, equestrian, downhill and cross country skiing.

The Ranch Malibu

The Ranch Malibu has introduced a new Ranch 4.0 package which includes 4 nights and 5 days of private accommodations at the Four Seasons, Westlake Village. A fitness program featuring 8-hours of low impact exercise achieved through guided hikes, yoga and exercise classes. Diagnostic testing including body fat analysis through the Bod Pod and VO2 metabolic testing, Nutritionally dense vegan meals and cooking demonstration. Daily deep tissue massage for each full day of your stay.

Mandarin Oriental, New York

Receive an upgrade at the time of booking when available. With its breathtaking view of Columbus Circle, Central Park and the city skyline, Mandarin Oriental, New York is a prized address among discerning travelers. You’ll be captivated by the stylish accommodations (such as the restyled suites), gourmet dining at contemporary Asiate, the vibrant atmosphere and stylish cocktails at MObar and the menu of rejuvenating therapies at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, New York.

W South Beach

In the playground of celebrities and on the boardwalk of the fashion jet set is where you’ll find W South Beach, a beachfront oasis dreamed up by international tastemakers, framed by famed art deco and in the heart of Miami’;s hottest nightlife. Enjoy a 4th night free and take the new tunnel from the hotel over to the cruise terminal if spending a night pre- or post- cruise

Rocky Mountaineer

Rocky Mountaineer is offering some new themed departures including Foodie & Soft Adventure themed itineraries

Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort

With 15 acres of prime beachfront in one of Hawai’i’s most luxurious resort communities, Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort is more a lifestyle than a hotel. Take a kayak tour, do sunset yoga or try stand-up paddleboarding. Then again, lounging by one of the five ocean-facing pools may be as active as you get.Enjoy a 6th night free if traveling before December 15, 2017

Europe

The Lanesborough

The Lanesborough now has their own restaurant featuring a menu designed by a 2-Star Michelin Chef. The only hotel in London to offer round-the-clock, dedicated butler service in each room and suite, guests at The Lanesborough are assured their every need is well served – with thought, surprise and charm. Perfectly located between Knightsbridge, Hyde Park and Mayfair, with London’s most desirable shopping district just a short walk away, this iconic London landmark is at the heart of the capital’s beloved boutiques and fashionable neighborhoods.

Hotel Castello di Casole

Castello di Casole is an historic 4,200-acre private estate located in the heart of Tuscany. Perfectly centralized between the cities of Florence, Siena, San Gimignano and Volterra, the estate encompasses vineyards, olive groves as well as a designated model game preserve. Two grand cypress-lined lanes ascend to the historic castle, which is now the 41-suite 5-star boutique hotel. The hotel has an incredible destination spa and fine and casual dining options in three incredible venues. The estate is completed by an offering of private villas and farmhouses perfect for larger groups and multi-generational family travel.

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco is truly multifaceted, and the more you learn, the more you will love this unique estate. You’ll soon discover this is truly a Tuscan home away from home, offering a range of elegant, spacious suites and villas. It is also an exclusive private golf club and culinary destination. And naturally, as it is situated in the heart of the Brunello di Montalcino winemaking region, it is also a leading Brunello di Montalcino winery. The 5,000-acre country estate, founded by Massimo and Chiara Ferragamo, rests in the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage–listed Val d’Orcia Natural Park

Les Pres d’Eugenie-Michel Guerard

The three-Michelin-starred chef who veritably transformed haute cuisine has also revolutionized the Gascony experience at Les Prés d’Eugénie. Culinary genius Michel Guérard and his wife, Christine Guérard, created this ethereal resort with 40 charmingly appointed guestrooms, suites and lodges. The aquatic spa includes a team of doctors, dieticians and physiotherapists for guests seeking optimal wellness, and three restaurants serve Guérard’s imaginative cuisines (three-Michelin-starred, spa and terroir), all complemented by wine from the estate.

Terme di Saturnia Spa & Golf Resort

Set amidst rolling hills, Terme di Saturnia Spa & Golf Resort is a stunning thermal retreat in Tuscan Maremma. The resort combines its ancient mineral-rich thermal springs — from which body-temperature-warm sulphurous water flows out at more than 200 gallons per second — with stylish accommodations, exclusive treatments in an award-winning spa and an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Ronald Fream. Inimitable charm, a passion for the finest cuisine, the Michelin-starred Gourmet All’Acquacotta and innovative Spa programs put the finishing touches to this retreat, which is just a two-hour drive from Rome and Florence.

The First Luxury Art Hotel Roma – Now a Virtuoso Property

A truly one of a kind experience.

The First Luxury Art Hotel Roma is a place where luxury and feeling at home interweave to create a new hospitality concept. Just a short walk from the Piazza del Popolo, Via del Corso, and The Spanish Steps, in the very heart of the city, this 5 star luxury boutique hotel is the ideal base to explore the beautiful capital while enjoying top-notch contemporary accommodations.

Belmond Trains now has itineraries in Ireland

For those of a pioneering spirit Belmond Grand Hibernian is the first luxury train experience of its kind in Ireland. Hosting 40 guests in en-suite cabins of contemporary and traditional design, the train also boasts two dining cars, and an observation car lined with picture-frame windows for watching the world go by. Indulge in a heady blend of, culture and history, authentic Irish cuisine and whiskey, then whirl into the night with a traditional Irish dance.

Hotel & Spa Rosa Alpina

Rosa Alpina enjoys a stunning location in the heart of the Dolomites, a natural paradise classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The area is equally appealing in all seasons: In the winter, 860 miles of ski runs will challange ski lovers, and in summer, hikers, climbers and bikers will find there’s no shortage of activity on the famous pink mountains.

The Lancaster

Exuding the feel of a private residence, The Lancaster hotel is just off the Champs-Élysées in the heart of Paris. Designed within a 19th-century mansion, the hotel imparts such an intimate atmosphere, you’ll expect to find dear friends around the next corner. A great location for families, the hotel offers connecting and family rooms.

Grand Hotel Tremezzo

Located in the heart of Lake Como, with unparalleled views of Bellagio, the iconic Grand Hotel Tremezzo is an authentic Art Nouveau palace offering the delights of a 5-star luxury vacation. With its 100 windows overlooking either the blue waters of the lake or the flowering greenery of the park, the hotel provides 76 rooms and 14 suites, including 8 hyper-exclusive Rooftop Suites, with panoramic views from terraces and outdoor Jacuzzis for the most special experience.