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 Off on Uncharted Discovery

The rugged, icy terrain of Antarctica, the mysteries of Machu Picchu, the vibrant flavours of South America: Experience the wonders of the southern hemisphere on the newest Four Seasons Private Jet journey. Set out from New Orleans for a 21-day adventure (November 28–December 18, 2022) that concludes in the Bahamas. Along the way, you’ll explore Costa Rica, Machu Picchu, Buenos Aires, Antarctica and Bogotá – including exclusive portions curated by Four Seasons experts just for you.

 

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You’ll travel in style between extraordinary locales aboard the Four Seasons Private Jet, with custom-designed Italian leather seats, a standing lounge area serving cocktails and snacks, and entertainment and demonstrations by Four Seasons experts. The Jet also offers the widest and tallest cabin in its class, with plenty of room for you to relax, dine and socialize with your fellow travellers. An onboard chef will also be on hand to make sure every in-flight meal is tailored to your tastes.

Explore New Private Jet Itineraries

With new Private Jet journeys to be announced soon, you’ll have a variety of opportunities to wing your way around the globe with Four Seasons. But if you can’t wait to take flight, here are a few of the Uncharted Discovery itinerary’s can’t-miss moments.

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Jazz Music in New Orleans

Kick off your journey at a cocktail reception at the new Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans, then head to the Hotel’s lush private garden for a welcome dinner that showcases the city’s renowned jazz music and Creole cuisine. Arriving in New Orleans early? Let Four Seasons show you around this one-of-a-kind city: Enjoy a private concert at Preservation Hall, the French Quarter’s iconic jazz venue; admire historic mansions in the picturesque Garden District during a private streetcar ride with a local historian; or savour an authentic taste of the city with a private dinner prepared and presented by a local chef. The city is yours to enjoy.

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Pura Vida in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a serene paradise of golden shores and tropical jungles, the ideal spot to uncover the “pura vida” lifestyle. Thrill seekers will enjoy experiencing the verdant scenery from the sky during a zip-lining adventure – take in stunning views of the surrounding forest and Pacific Ocean as you glide above the treetops. Looking for something involving a little less adrenaline? Discover how cacao beans are transformed into delicious chocolate with a master chocolatier, or accompany a mixologist from Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo on a tasting journey through Latin America’s top rums. End your day with an exclusive stargazing party: Explore the night sky through a powerful GPS-guided telescope while sipping cocktails infused with meteorite dust and an out-of-this-world tasting menu created in collaboration with Costa Rican astronaut Franklin Chang Díaz.

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Ancient History in Machu Picchu

The Jet’s next stop? The Peruvian Highlands and the Andes Mountains, where a train chartered exclusively for Private Jet passengers will carry you to Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Explore the architectural wonders of this 15th-century citadel, which experts believe was built by the Inca as an estate for Emperor Pachacuti, and gaze down at the Sacred Valley of the Incas below before enjoying cocktails and live entertainment on the train ride back to your lodge. During your three-day stay in the Sacred Valley, don’t miss the chance to explore the archaeological ruins and Spanish colonial architecture of historic Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, or the Salineras de Maras – thousands of salt evaporation ponds that dot the landscape of nearby Maras and have been used for salt extraction since the days of the Incas.

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Urban Culture in Buenos Aires

Nicknamed “the Paris of South America,” Buenos Aires is an irresistible blend of European and Latin American cultures, home to Old World–style architecture, a thriving arts scene and delicious culinary offerings. Find your rhythm at an unforgettable gala dinner, where you’ll enjoy a lively tango show and have the chance to learn the steps of Buenos Aires’ signature dance, or go backstage at the renowned Teatro Colón, considered one of the 10 best opera houses in the world. Sit down to a traditional Argentinian barbecue lunch at Estancia La Bamba de Areco, one of the country’s oldest ranches, and watch the cowboys perform a gaucho show. Inspired by Machu Picchu to visit another wonder of the world? Set off on a day trip aboard the Private Jet to Iguazú National Park, home to the thundering Iguazú Falls – a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.

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Icy Awe in Antarctica

From Buenos Aires you’ll wing your way to Punta Arenas in Chile, the gateway to Antarctica. From there, board a charter flight to King George Island, where a private luxury polar ship is waiting to set sail on an incredible four-night exploration of the seventh continent. Explore the rugged landscape of the vast peninsula, from iceberg-dotted bays to brilliant blue glaciers, during Zodiac cruises, kayaking excursions and guided nature hikes. Discover the snow-covered peaks off Mount Foster, the collapsed caldera left behind by a volcano on Deception Island, and the seals on Elephant Island in the South Shetland Islands. You might spot other wildlife – including penguins, whales and Cape petrel birds – during a cruise through the Antarctic Sound for a once-in-a-lifetime look at the untamed, glacier-sculpted land on either side.

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Bold Flavours in Bogotá

After the chill of the southernmost continent, warm up with Colombia’s famous coffee in Bogotá. The lively capital offers on-trend shops, historic landmarks, brightly coloured street art and bold nuevo Colombiano cuisine. Get a taste with an intimate culinary experience in a world-renowned chef’s private home, where you’ll dine on traditional Colombian dishes like bandeja paisa and ajiaco. Visit art galleries and original street art on a guided tour with a local artist, or browse stalls of locally grown produce and handmade crafts at Paloquemao Market. A highlight of your three-day stay: A private concert by the Bogotá Philharmonic – one of South America’s most prestigious orchestras – arranged exclusively for you and your fellow travellers.

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A Fond Farewell in the Bahamas

End your journey with a relaxing stay at Four Seasons’ Caribbean hideaway on Paradise Island. Soak up the Bahamas’ sun-drenched beauty as you lounge on the Resort’s pristine private beach or by one of three pools, or soak up a soothing massage and coconut poultice treatment in a private Balinese-style spa villa. Before saying goodbye to your new friends, raise a toast to your travels together at a farewell dinner at The Ocean Club.

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

Let your spirit of adventure take flight – where will you go next?

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World Class

During a recent trip, my sons gingerly made their way through the rice paddies at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai as a guide pointed out the long grasses in the waters around their boots, the sounds of the resident buffalo in the distance carrying across the still air. As we walked, our guide explained how the animals and the farmers work together, and how much land is required to create a bag of rice we’d purchase without a thought at a supermarket back home. Later, we sampled the product: In a cooking class, the executive chef showed the boys how to make mango sticky rice and other tasty Thai dishes. We headed home with recipes, a new appreciation for a dinner staple, and knowledge of another culture and way of life.

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Our visit to Thailand was just one stop on our family’s trip around the world. Without class curricula, we let the journey school our sons. We learned new languages at playgrounds and restaurants, explored conservation efforts in wild spaces, tested our math skills while figuring out currencies, and practised reading with signs at museum exhibits.

Over the past year, terms like “remote schooling” have become a part of many families’ vocabularies. But for us and other avid family travellers, learning has always been a part of the adventure. Every trip we’ve taken has taught us, kids and adults, something new. As we look forward to future journeys together, here are some of the exciting opportunities offered by Four Seasons to help us learn about – and from – local destinations and people.

WILD OCEAN ENCOUNTERS

Who needs a biology classroom – or a playground – when your family can explore the incredible marine life that surrounds Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, México? As part of its “Schoolcations” program, marine learning activities for kids include an expert-guided whale-watching tour, a sea foraging excursion and the chance to assist with the release of olive ridley sea turtle hatchlings.

At Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, families (including kids as young as 9) can keep an eye out for sea turtles and other marine life – including migrating humpback whales, in season – during a private outrigger canoe paddle. Championship-level guides teach you the basics and show how this ancient tradition continues to play a role in Hawaiian culture.

In a new partnership with WiseOceans, and with a new Resort marine biologist and educator, Louise Sabadel, Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is now more certain than ever to appeal to conservationists of all ages. Snorkelling the calm lagoon and reef is an easy way for multiple generations to discover local underwater life together.

STAYING FIT AND FOCUSED

Healthy bodies and healthy minds go hand in hand, so learning a new skill that strengthens physical and mental muscles is good for the whole family. At Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, kids as young as 4 can learn the traditional art of Thai kick-boxing (muay thai) from a professional boxer. Every member of the family will enjoy gazing out over the gulf from a hilltop ring, practising this sport that promotes flexibility, strength and coordination.

On the flip side, sometimes it’s important to concentrate on quiet minds and calm spirits. At Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, kids age 6 and older can develop both. Board a dhoni boat together and sail over to the Island Spa, where children can relax with treatments all their own, including oil blending, nourishing seaweeds, or yoga on land or sea. “Kids are never too young to learn the importance of self-care or the role of nature in our well-being,” says Spa Assistant Manager Angelica De Leon. “Our children’s treatments all include an educational aspect.”

And it’s easy to turn a sport your child already loves into a teachable moment. At Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort, sign your student up for a one-hour golf lesson with PGA professional Rod Cook, the Resort’s Director of Instruction, to learn different golf skill sets like chipping, putting and driving. Afterwards, explore the science behind the sport: Director of Golf Maintenance Stephen Tucker will explain the winning formula of water, fertilizer and care that goes into keeping the course in prime condition.

ARTS, CRAFTS AND CULTURE

From a fairly young age, many kids have had some exposure to ancient Greek mythology and culture. In Athens, a visit to local museums will show them how important pottery remains are to the archaeological record and our modern understanding of the era. Bring the stories to life and engage kids’ hands-on creativity with pottery lessons at Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens.

Prefer your art in 2D? Learn about Italian artists and the techniques used in their work when you try your hand at reproducing pieces by legends like Raphael and Caravaggio. The exclusive collaboration between Four Seasons Hotel Milano and the Pinacoteca di Brera museum includes a sketchbook, colouring kit and private tour options. “The children who participate are captured by the colours, by the thousands of stories that the paintings tell,” says Pinacoteca di Brera Deputy Manager Alessandra Quarto. “They are totally fascinated; they sit on the floor and listen, observe, draw.”

Or make art that takes to the sky: At Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay and Four Seasons Resort Nevis, on-site kite experts will help kids build their own creations to soar high and challenge others. Kites play a cultural role in both destinations; spring brings kite competitions in Nevis, and summer in Bali is the time to watch locals battling it out in the skies with kites up to 5 metres wide.

Inspire any budding chefs in your family with a hands-on French culinary experience ­– starting with a drive to Versailles to see the Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris, kitchen garden—with the Hotel’s Michelin-starred Chef Simone Zanoni. Or book a family lesson in Vietnamese cuisine at Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An. The skills kids learn here from an expert chef, such as rolling rice paper, can add spice to mealtimes back home.

HISTORY COMES ALIVE

For kids, history books can be boring. Interactive activities bring the facts more vividly to life in experiences the adults can share. Pay a lantern-lit evening visit to George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate, exclusively arranged by Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC, where you’ll learn about the first U.S. president and explore spaces that aren’t open to the general public. “Mount Vernon looks like it was frozen in time during Washington’s life—it is truly living history,” says Concierge Supervisor Michael Chase. “No tour is duplicated from one family to the next; the guide tailors to the ages and curiosities of the children.”

At Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, a local expert will guide you on a walking tour along the Pearling Trail in the old city of Muharraq, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a glimpse into its history and its pearling traditions. Pair it with a family snorkelling or diving trip to search for fresh wild pearls.

If the legend of El Dorado has caught your children’s interest, a visit to Bogotá’s Museo del Oro is in order, and a helicopter tour over Lake Guatavita, arranged by Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogotá, can add a sense of place to the fabled city of gold. The lake was a sacred site for the indigenous Muisca civilization, where chiefs threw offerings including gold to the gods; the story grew into the myth of El Dorado.

For the ultimate adventure, the Four Seasons Private Jet may be just the ticket: The first family-friendly journey, African Wonders (December 28, 2021, to January 9, 2022), includes stops in seven countries and a visit to one of the world’s most compelling historical sites, Egypt’s Pyramids of Giza, with expert guides and special access. It’s just the type of experience to inspire your children’s love of learning, and your favourite family memories, for years to come.

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

Where will your adventures take you next?

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6 Reasons to Take an Adult Gap Year

Who among us, when gainfully employed but scheduled wall to wall, hasn’t envied younger students with a chance to take a gap year? It’s easier to take a whole year off to travel the world before college or before starting a career.

A gap year wasn’t in the cards for me in my 20s, but I kept the idea tucked away in the back of my mind. My husband and I realized our dream of moving to Aspen, Colorado, to start a magazine. As the years passed, I discovered a downside to being an entrepreneur; work consumed my time.

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After 25 years at the helm, I hit the slow – not the stop – button. I wasn’t ready to retire, but I did need the luxury of time to explore the world and re-envision my place in it. I started with a deep dive into one of my favourite places, Manhattan, making it my classroom: museums, opera, theatre, talks. I enrolled in photography workshops in India, Mexico and Cuba, at each stop seeing the world and myself with fresh eyes.

Today, as our ideas about work, home and travel change, a gap year, a mini-retirement, a sabbatical or even a supersabbatical seems less problematic for many adults. Here are some of the opportunities Four Seasons offers to help you discover a new outlook on the world – and your place in it.

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Experience a World of Adventure

Discover new passions, flavours and perspectives both in the air and on the ground during a one-of-a-kind global adventure aboard the custom-designed Four Seasons Private Jet. The curated collection of global itineraries offers exclusive experiences available only through Four Seasons, along with its world-class service and personalized care.

It may have taken Phileas Fogg 80 days to circumnavigate the globe, but with Four Seasons you can do it in 24. The World of Adventures itinerary takes you to nine destinations in eight countries, starting with a welcome dinner beneath striking glass sculptures by Dale Chihuly in Seattle and ending with a Champagne toast in Miami. Taking the long way around, you’ll learn the secrets of samurai sword fighting in Kyoto, go rafting on Bali’s longest river, centre your mind and body with sunset yoga in Seychelles, trek through the rainforest in search of gorillas in Rwanda, tour ancient architecture in Marrakech, take a private salsa lesson in Bogotá, and watch for giant green sea turtles in the Galápagos Islands. Other Private Jet itineraries include an expedition through the southern hemisphere, with an unforgettable trip to Antarctica.

Explore Private Jet Journeys

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Walk on the Wild Side

Safari means “journey” in Swahili, and an adventure at Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti is a natural fit for a journey of discovery. Explore the natural habitat of Africa’s fascinating creatures by vehicle, on foot or even from the air – it’s sure to change your perspective.

Set out with the Lodge’s resident naturalist, Maasai guides and park rangers and immerse yourself in the splendours of the savannah during a guided walk. Your guides will teach you to read tracks left by animals like cheetahs and lions, and understand the role insects and plants play in this unique ecosystem. Help install a camera trap that will record the activities of the Serengeti’s majestic animals – elephants, wildebeests, giraffes, notoriously elusive leopards.

Your education continues at the Lodge’s acclaimed Discovery Centre, the first conservation research and interactive education platform of its kind in East Africa. Here, review your camera-trap images with an expert and create a personalized digital photo record of your sojourn in one of the world’s last wild places.

Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, Tanzania

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Rediscover Your Passions

During a gap year, many college-age students are out for one last hurrah before taking on adult responsibilities. But I’ve found that one of the benefits of taking that time later is the opportunity to discover – or rediscover – the passions that drive you. Make your journey to well-being at Sensei Lanai, a Four Seasons Resort. This wellness enclave helps fuel your passions and connect with your intentions to live well through enriching classes, culinary adventures, private wellness consultations and relaxing treatments.

The Sensei Way focuses on three paths: movement, nourishment and rest; combined, they help us recover and grow. Explore each path with personalized activities – like aquatic bodywork in your hale pool and guided breathwork – and private one-on-one sessions with well-being professionals. Balance the calm with adventure and infuse your wellness vacation with world-class golf, hiking or horseback riding on mountain trails, or swimming in a protected marine cove. The Concierge can arrange a variety of island activities that nourish body and spirit.

Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort

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Take to the Open Road

The past year has made me – and countless other travellers – yearn not only for the chance to explore new destinations but also for the journey to them. I love climbing behind the wheel and hitting the road, and relish every scenic overlook and entertaining detour. What better way to explore Europe than by taking The Scenic Route: Embark on a great escape between drivable Four Seasons destinations like Lisbon to Madrid, Prague to Budapest, London to Hampshire. Four Seasons Concierges fill you in on their favourite stops along the way, and you can explore wine country, savour authentic local cuisine, and immerse yourself in art and history – all at your own pace.

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I’m most looking forward to the drive from Paris to the French Riviera, snaking along the legendary N7 – dubbed The Holiday Route, or Route des Vacances. It’s a feast for the senses: the soothing smell of lavender fields, breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, authentic dishes at local cafés. After waking up to views of the Eiffel Tower at the iconic Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris, trade the bright lights of the city for the bright stars of the French Riviera. I can’t wait to gaze up at the inky night sky during a personal astronomy lesson with a planetary scientist from Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel – or to admire the celestial twinkle during an al fresco dinner prepared by Michelin-starred Chef Yoric Tièche.

Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel

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Retreat to Paradise

After stepping away to take time for myself, I discovered how much I relished the opportunity to revive my bonds with friends and loved ones – I could spend time with them without having to field calls from the office or check my email. The perfect place to gather? Your own private island. Four Seasons Maldives Private Island at Voavah, Baa Atoll, is the world’s first exclusive-use UNESCO hideaway – the ideal spot to retreat and reconnect.

Lounge on white-sand beaches and splash in clear blue water, or climb aboard Voavah Summer, your 19-metre (62-foot) private yacht, for a day of exploring the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that surrounds the island. Swim with reef sharks or dive with mantas, or get your adrenaline pumping with high-flying X-Jetblades water jetpacks or kitesurfing. Restore balance and elevate your awareness with a customized treatment at the island’s private Spa – perhaps the Ocean of Consciousness, which uses the power of sound to connect you to layers of awakened knowledge both in and around you. After a day spent exploring your surroundings and your psyche, toast the sunset during a beach barbecue prepared by your private chef.

Maldives Private Island Voavah at Baa Atoll

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Find Your Balance

To recharge during your sabbatical, it’s important that you relax, letting go of old stress, worry and negative emotions. At Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, improve your spiritual and physical health at The Sacred River Spa, where authentic Balinese traditions combine with energy-healing chakra ceremonies. The Muladhara ritual brings inner peace and frees your full potential with a cleansing kemenyan smoke ceremony, soothing singing bowls and slow massage to induce a deep sense of stillness and connection – of feeling physically and emotionally grounded, ready to embrace new challenges.

To see the world from a new perspective, try AntiGravity Yoga, a “flying” practice that combines athletic strength with the motion of dance. As you stretch and improve your flexibility, suspended or even inverted in the Resort’s bamboo yoga bale, you’ll discover that your levitated position will get your endorphins flowing and set your soul – and mind – soaring.

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

Where will your spirit of adventure take you next?

maldives private island

Private Jet Travel Diary: 8 Memories From My Trip Around the World

Three years ago, my kids and I boarded the Four Seasons Private Jet for a global tour. It would be, and still remains, a tremendous experience. I can honestly say it changed all our lives, each of us for a different reason. The trip occurred at a time of great transition; we were coming out on the other side of some very difficult times. It was a celebration – and the best decision we could have made.


Shari in Seychelles

The author in Seychelles.

My seatmate at that time, Carol, was a young woman from California. A stranger then, she’s since become a true friend. And, with the same seats as before, we embark once again – sans my children – on an inaugural journey.

We’re not the only ones. There are 17 returning passengers on this “World of Adventures” tour, which, over the course of 24 days, takes us to eight countries and locales like Kyoto, Seychelles, Rwanda, even the Galápagos Islands.

For three weeks we are surrounded by beauty, discovering worlds and peoples and getting glimpses of places where the public is typically not allowed. I completely lose myself in what each destination has to offer – that’s the secret to a trip of this kind.

Although we spent several days in each place – and had countless incredible experiences along the way – here, a few treasured moments from my travel diary that offer a peek into life aboard the Four Seasons Private Jet.

Gardens and Glass in Seattle

The fog has settled beautifully in the bay when I wake up early on the morning of our departure. I’m too excited to keep sleeping. The comfort of the jet is perfect for naps anyway, I tell myself.

We had our first group event the night before: a private dinner at the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum within the Seattle Center, an exquisite showcase of Dale Chihuly’s work. Each of us stood in total awe of the spectacular display of colours as we began to make our introductions. It was a lovely affair, with every detail considered for us – something I’m happy to get used to.

 

Four Seasons Hotel Seattle

Artful Expressions in Kyoto

Kyoto, you are a welcome sight to behold. My room overlooks both gardens and historic temples – an apt representation of the two sides of the city, Alex, the Hotel’s general manager, tells me. Especially given that the gardens are more than 800 years old. Each morning I sip my tea, which comes in a beautiful traditional Japanese teapot along with hand-painted ceramic cups, and watch the sun rise.

The food here is an art form. I have the pleasure of being seated in front of one of the sushi masters as he prepares my meal with expert precision. I eat sea bream steamed in sake and lovely fatty tuna. I even try my hand at making maki with the help of an incredibly charming assistant who, admittedly, does most of the work.

I had the most amazing encounter with a samurai master who trained Uma Thurman and choreographed scenes in Kill Bill. Well, all I can say is, Uma, look out. There’s a new group in town. Who knew he could make warriors out of us in just two hours – at least that’s how it felt. We’ll file away the videos that perhaps prove otherwise. Such fun.

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

Memorable Learnings in Bali

This morning we visited a Balinese elementary school, and I had tears in my eyes for over an hour. The children, positively beaming, were all dressed in white. They greeted us with a special song and dance performance and invited us into their classroom, where we tried not to distract as they wove baskets, created daily temple offerings and practiced their arithmetic. We were there to offer the class a donation of new backpacks, one for each student. Our group waded through, handing them out personally. Such a special memory.

Outside, we’re enveloped by green – lush, verdant landscapes everywhere we look. At night I fall asleep to the sounds of the jungle. We’re about a week in, and I think I’ve found my rhythm.

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan

Pool of Calm in Seychelles

Even on such a luxurious trip you need downtime. Today it comes in the form of a hillside-perched villa overlooking a sugary stretch of beach. We arrive late in the afternoon, and the first thing I do upon entering my little cottage – with its fresh breezes and loungers at the ready – is drop my things and sink into the private plunge pool, where I spend the next 30 minutes. Room service and early to bed is the recommendation for tonight.

Just before sunset we head out on a catamaran cruise. Now you’re speaking my language. You can see the sun sink into the ocean a thousand times, but it still always feels novel somehow. The Jet’s Executive Chef is with me. We know each other from my previous trip, so there’s an ease between us. I’m so happy to be enjoying these moments with the journey crew. They let go, as much as they can, and laugh along with us. We’re all in the mood to let loose a little. Good thing there’s a DJ on board.

Four Seasons Resort Seychelles

Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda

Twenty minutes into our trek, we hear them. It’s strange really, the sound – like empty coconuts banging and snapping bushes. Everyone stops, looking at one another with eyes wide. Is this really happening? Without warning, we’re amongst a family of mountain gorillas. We’re in Dian Fossey territory and we are in awe.

Two-year-olds swinging from trees, moms carrying babies, silverbacks holding court, teenagers shuffling about trying to look important – just as you would expect a family to behave. The energy is electric. We’re taking pains to be careful on approach, but the gorillas soon let us know we can relax. One hour of watching and every one of us still wears a smile. We speak softly, as instructed. I stand very still. A mother is laying in a hollow beside me with her two little ones. I’m barely breathing as she stretches her arm towards me. She unfurls her hand and touches my boot. Our eyes lock. This, to me, is the most important minute of the entire journey.

 

 

 

Swept Up in Marrakech

Waking up in Marrakech: It’s warm and bustling and crowded and fragrant – where to begin? Perhaps with the Resort, which is gorgeous, tranquil, spacious. But we depart early to be absorbed by the city. This morning it’s the Saadian Tombs, with magnificently carved and tiled structures once home to the remains of royalty, sealed for centuries before their rediscovery. The streets we pass through are boisterous and full of energy; there’s no dallying here, only swift movement with purpose.

And the markets. Luscious coloured spices piled high, stacked behind the barrels of soaps, teas, dried herbs. I’m mesmerized by the bounty of colours and smells. Every corner, every turn is a visual feast as we move through a maze of streets.

That evening we join the flight crew and journey staff for a banquet-like dinner complete with high-energy music and dancing. This is Marrakech. True to its reputation, Four Seasons puts on a spectacular display, from the lighted red carpet to the smartly dressed hosts carrying trays of pink martinis aptly named Cosmorrocans. The atmosphere inside was so inviting I forgot all about getting my picture with one of the camels out front.

Four Seasons Resort Marrakech

Kitchen Play in Bogotá

Executive Chef Carmine Esposito agrees to let me whirl around his kitchen tomorrow, and I cannot wait. The Michelin-starred culinary genius, who also appears on Master Chef Junior in Colombia, is as warm and generous as they come. He’s Italian, but he’s spent the past three years in Bogotá with his family.

The next morning he shows up holding a uniform and says, “You ready? Put this on; we’re going to work.” I giddily do as I’m told and bring along two other guests, Doreen and Tom from across the aisle. Needless to say, we have the best time making gourmet pizza from scratch and taste-testing what’s on offer for the day. Bonding over how we each roast pumpkin for soup is definitely a highlight. Later, we three sit in the dining room and enjoy Barolos with our lunch – still in uniform, of course.

Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogota

Natural Wonder in the Galápagos

There are too many tortoises to count. As we wander carefully among them some retreat into their shells, but one doesn’t. We’re told he’s about 90 years old, with a swagger he’s no doubt earned. He stares each one of us in the eyes, holds our gaze and then goes back to eating. Yes, we know, we are the visitors here.

Leaving the island to head for the ship, where we’re staying, I’m reminded how much the sea lions too are a part of everyday life here. They slip in and out of the water so gracefully, you don’t even notice until you’re right beside one. We pull anchor as the sun sinks gloriously into the horizon. It’s a slow cruise in shiny black waters. Onboard the ship, music is playing and there’s a party waiting for us. One thing’s for certain: This night will not end early.

Onboard the jet for what will be our last stretch to Florida, we drag out packing our things. No one sits in their own seat. Everyone is moving about, saying goodbyes and hugging. There are conversations about the future. We don’t need to spend time getting each other’s contact information; that will be prepared for us. For now, we cheers each other; we toast the amazing crew; we laugh the loudest we have yet.

As I look around I wonder what everyone is thinking, just as I did on the first flight. Memories from the past three weeks flood in, but, for me, it all boils down to this: It’s not about the destinations themselves; it’s what aspects of them you carry with you, how they become part of you. That’s the real magic.

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

Experience the world with us.

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