Best of Both Worlds

Do you come alive in the heart of a bustling city? Or does your perfect vacation involve lounging in beautiful, secluded areas? If you’re looking to tap into the infectious energy of a big city while also enjoying a relaxing vacation, these Four Seasons hotels offer the best of both worlds. Enjoy intimate oceanside picnics and peaceful garden strolls just minutes from cultural centres, shopping districts and vibrant nightlife. When you stay at Four Seasons, you can pack your bags knowing that you’ve chosen a destination that offers whatever you’re in the mood for – last-minute changes included.

Find culture and peace of mind in Florence

Located in the heart of Florence, Four Seasons Hotel Firenze offers a refuge within a bustling cultural hub. The Hotel’s grand historic building dates back to the 1400s and features rich architecture with Renaissance detailing, fresco-lined walls and a Michelin-starred Italian restaurant. The wonder continues outside, where you’ll find charming statues, a small Ionic temple, perfectly manicured lawns and curved walking paths in the expansive 11-acre Giardino della Gherardesca. It’s the perfect setting for a romantic picnic under majestic trees or a picturesque hilltop dinner with Duomo views.

And when you’re ready to explore the city, you’re within walking distance of historic sites and world-class museums. After you’ve gazed upon Sandro Botticelli paintings at Uffizi Gallery, crossed the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge and sampled authentic Italian dishes at the Mercato Centrale Florence, come back to the Hotel to unwind with a dip in the garden pool or just revel in the natural beauty found within the walled garden oasis. For an unforgettable end to your day, let Four Seasons set an intimate table for you and your love on a private, open-air terrace on the Ponte Vecchio and indulge in a four-course gourmet meal designed by the talented culinary team as you watch the sun set over the Arno River.

Stay in the historic heart of Florence

Revel in seaside luxury and Miami nightlife

Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club, Surfside, Florida, occupies a nine-acre stretch of beachfront in pedestrian-friendly Surfside. This historic property has exuded coastal elegance since opening its doors on New Year’s Eve in 1930. Its oceanfront rooms and bungalows offer unobstructed sea and bayside views. Make it a low-key cabana day by the pool or start your morning with a sunrise beach picnic with all your favourite breakfast items. If it’s privacy you’re after, you can enjoy a peaceful float in your own private rooftop pool in the exclusive Marybelle Penthouse Suite.

When you’re rested and ready to shop, the luxury boutiques of Bal Harbour are just blocks away. The art deco architecture, modern art galleries, celebrity-chef eateries and independent fashion shops of South Beach are also close by. And once the sun sets, city’s legendary nightlife offers plenty of options for any mood you’re in – from high-energy dance clubs to chic champagne bars, the Concierge team always has plenty of recommendations for where to find the best nightclubs in Miami and can help you find the perfect fit.

Unwind at The Surf Club

Discover a desert oasis in Las Vegas

What happens in Vegas … can be surprisingly relaxing. Envision a version of Las Vegas that is quiet and serene. Imagine balancing the energy and nightlife of one of the greatest entertainment destinations with the breathtaking natural wonders nearby. You’ll find that balance at Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas, a tranquil Five Diamond oasis in the middle of the Las Vegas strip. It’s one of the only non-gaming and non-smoking hotels on the strip, and one of the biggest draws is its Forbes Five-Star Spa. Here, you can pick your pool experience: opt for a cabana at the Hotel’s private pool or lounge by a real-sand beach with access to the pool complex at the nearby Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. If you’re more of an adventurer, set your sights off the strip entirely and let the Concierge plan a day of exploring the Grand Canyon or the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. On your return, find an array of personalized spa services at your fingertips.

If you want to experience Vegas nightlife like a local, the Concierge can also point you towards some of the best spots both on and off the strip. Whether you’re in the mood for a low-key or VIP experience, this city has it all.

Find balance in Las Vegas

Feel rejuvenated in London

Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane is an icon of refined elegance, offering newly renovated rooms and spacious suites as well as a Forbes Five-Star Spa overlooking Hyde Park and the city’s skyline. Its prime location makes sightseeing easy – enjoy a stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens or explore the storied South Bank district to see iconic landmarks like the London Eye and Big Ben. For a night out, let the Concierge arrange for a private Thames River cruise, a trip to the theatre, tickets to a concert or sporting event at Wembley Stadium, or a tasting experience at Chef Yannick Alléno’s recently opened Pavyllon London.

After a day exploring the city, retreat to the Hotel for an ultra-relaxing night’s sleep aided by curated experiences that induce restorative sleep and improved mental well-being. Sleep-focused spa treatments include the Four Seasons Signature Deep Sleep Lavender Massage – the perfect way to end a day of sightseeing. The treatment begins with a rich, aromatic blend of herbs including English-grown lavender warmed to soothe tired feet, followed by a full-body massage designed to induce a deep slumber.

Wake up rested in London

Move to your own rhythm in Austin

Few things capture the unique energy of a city more than live, local music – and you’ll find one of the best local music scenes in Austin, Texas. Given its multitude of bars, music venues and dance clubs, it’s been dubbed the Live Music Capital of the World®, and you’ll find every style here. But that’s not all this city offers. Maybe you’ve become a Grand Prix fan and you’re eager to see why Austin is such a draw for Formula 1 enthusiasts. Or maybe it’s the eclectic dining scene you’re wanting to explore. Whatever your reason for visiting this capital city, you won’t have any trouble finding things to see, do and eat.

Located right off bustling South Congress Avenue, Four Seasons Hotel Austin offers a laid-back spot to relax and reset. You’ll find tranquillity on the Hotel’s tree-covered grounds on the shores of Lady Bird Lake, an outdoor playground offering access to a range of on-the-water activities such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, miles of lakeside trails, lawn games, a saltwater pool, and oak-shaded Adirondack chairs for chatting with friends. But once you’ve covered miles of dance floors throughout Austin, you’ll want to retreat to the most relaxing area of the Hotel for signature spa treatments infused with Texas-grown sage and other indigenous ingredients to help soothe tired muscles and rejuvenate your senses. Once you’ve finished at the Spa, head back to your room and place an order with the Hotel’s exclusive on-demand Margarita Cart – available at the push of a button – to have a bartender serve you handcrafted margaritas in the comfort of your own room.

Find your beat in Austin

Uncover desert fun and beachfront relaxation in Dubai

Dubai attracts millions of visitors annually, eager to experience desert safaris, desert horse rides, camel rides, luxury shopping and nightlife that never takes a day off. Whether you’re gazing upon the breathtaking sunsets from the top of the world’s tallest building – the Burj Khalifa at 163 floors – scouting for designer brands or embarking upon the adventure of a lifetime through the desert, Dubai offers a wealth of options for its visitors.

Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach is where it all winds down. This beachfront oasis is where you can catch your breath and allow the attentive staff to take care of your every need. Experience ancient Arabian rituals at the Resort Spa with a Memories of Arabia treatment, which hydrates and rejuvenates your skin and hair with the nourishing properties of camel milk, honey, argan shells and oil. Add an afternoon tea service or a beach or poolside cabana reservation to your relaxation menu and you’re set for hours of blissful self care. As they say in Dubai, “As-salamu alaykum,” or “peace be upon you.”

See another side of Dubai

City or beach, downtown nightlife or lakeside serenity, bright lights or a secluded spa – at Four Seasons, you don’t have to choose just one. Let the expert teams at each of these properties help you create the perfect vacation that offers the best of both worlds.

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

Who says you can’t have it all?

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World of Wonder

From rolling green hills to staggering peaks and sparkling blue seas, the world is full of beautiful places. But some spots are truly spectacular – with awe-inspiring beauty and gravitas that stop us in our tracks and leave us forever changed.  

Whether it’s a visit to one of the Wonders of the World – new, natural or ancient – or a step back through time at a UNESCO World Heritage site, Four Seasons can help you discover some of the world’s most bucket list–worthy landmarks. Get a bird’s-eye view of the Great Wall of China in Beijing or reflect on the mysteries of the ancient Sphinx in Cairo as you dine like Egyptian royalty: Four Seasons offers exclusive access to once-in-a-lifetime experiences that will give you a new perspective on the world. 

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The Great Wall of China

Begun in the seventh century BC as a defence against nomadic groups and expanded over the centuries by subsequent emperors, the Great Wall of China today stretches 21,196 km (13,170 miles) across China’s forest-covered northern borders and mountains. Declared one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the wall is a staggering feat of architectural engineering. One of the best-preserved sections is the Mutianyu segment, constructed of slabs of granite and featuring 23 watchtowers fully restored to their Ming dynasty glory. Get a rare aerial glimpse of the iconic landmark during a private helicopter tour arranged by Four Seasons Hotel Beijing – the perfect way to fully take in the majestic structure’s scale and grandeur. Afterwards, hike the area’s verdant woods with an expert guide, who will explain the wall’s rich and complicated history, and end your adventure with a picnic lunch served atop the Great Wall itself.  

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Hoi An: A UNESCO Trifecta

The ancient seaport of Hoi An is perfectly positioned in the heart of Vietnam’s history. Wander the lantern-lit streets of the Ancient City; explore the ruins of My Son Sanctuary, one of the region’s most important Hindu temple complexes; and discover the sprawling Imperial City of Hue: The UNESCO World Heritage sites are all within easy reach of Four Seasons Resort Hoi An (The Nam Hai). Tour Hoi An’s Central Market with a local guide, stopping to appreciate the assembly hall of Phuoc Kien, built in 1692 by Chinese merchants in honour of sea goddess Thien Hau, and learn the stories of the pagoda-covered Japanese Bridge, one of the city’s most photographed landmarks. At My Son Sanctuary, venture into the valley to see 71 monuments spread across the valley, flanked by the three holy mountains and the sacred river. Tour this ancient place of worship the burial place of Champa kings – and then head to the triple-walled Imperial City of Hue, once Vietnam’s political, cultural and religious centre. Marvel at the octagonal Thien Mu Pagoda, or opt for a scenic boat ride along the Perfume River. Afterwards, return to the Resort and reflect on your day of discovery as you gaze over the East Sea from the tiered infinity pool. 

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The Lost City of Petra

Few places are as aesthetically dramatic as Petra, an ancient city carved with exquisite detail into the towering red sandstone walls and sweeping sand dunes that ripple through Jordan’s Wadi Rum desert. When you emerge from the narrow, winding canyon known as the Siq and catch your first glimpse of Petra’s iconic Treasury protruding from the rock, you’ll understand why the lost city is listed as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Whether you’re using Four Seasons Hotel Amman as your home base, or are passing through on the Ancient Explorer itinerary aboard the Four Seasons Private Jet, you’ll experience unparalleled access to this 2,000-year-old city and the surrounding desert. Enjoy a thrilling 4×4 excursion through the dunes, or opt for a slower pace with a ride on a camel. Our favourite way to admire the stunning scenery? A Bedouin-style dinner around a fire, marvelling at the star-studded desert sky. 

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The Colourful Baa Atoll

To complement your adventures on land and in the air, turn to the sparkling blue waters of the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It’s home to one of the largest groups of coral reefs in the Indian Ocean – and Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru. Swim with whale sharks and manta rays, explore the vibrant reefs, and even work towards PADI Open Water certification with the help of expert scuba instructors. Or join a team of passionate marine biologists from the Resort’s Marine Discovery Centre as they help repair the reef, track manta rays and rehabilitate Maldivian sea turtles – hands-on opportunities to help preserve this unique and vital ecosystem. The reefs alone are populated by more than 1,000 species of fish.  

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The Storied Acropoli

Imagine standing in one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, surrounded by history: The Acropolis in Athens is considered the birthplace of democracy, medicine and art, and the mythical home of the gods. Perched on a rocky hill overlooking the city, the 2,500-year-old Acropolis includes several iconic structures, like the Parthenon and the temple Athena Nike. See them all during a private tour with an archaeologist from the Acropolis Museum, arranged by Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens. Explore the museum, then enjoy an exclusive visit to the historic compound. Afterwards, return to the Hotel for a spa treatment inspired by the ancient teachings of Hippocrates or a Michelin-starred dinner at Pelagos, named for the Greek word for ocean and serving a bounty of fresh seafood straight from the Mediterranean Sea.

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The Pyramids of Giza

As the sole survivor from the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the pyramids of Giza are on most travellers’ lists of must-see destinations. Mysterious and majestic, the pyramids are a legendary symbol of Egypt’s 7,000-year history. Venture into the desert for a dinner fit for a pharaoh, arranged by Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza: Watch colourful lights play over the Sphinx and the pyramids before you head to a private tent for a meal tailored to your tastes and served by a Four Seasons chef. Live performances of some of Egypt’s greatest musical works and a private show of the whirling tanoura dance round out this unforgettable evening.  

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A World Geopark

Ride the steepest cable car in the world, paddle a kayak through a tangle of mangroves, hike the rainforest in search of dusky leaf monkeys or one of the island’s 190 species of birds: When you stay at Four Seasons Resort Langkawi, you’re never at a loss for adventure. Nestled within Southeast Asia’s first UNESCO Global Geopark – defined as geographical areas where important sites and landscapes are managed with an eye on protection, education and sustainability – the Resort can arrange experiences on land, sea and air at its Geopark Discovery Centre. The centre’s on-site team of naturalists can fill you in on the region’s diverse habitats and rock formations, as well as the flora and fauna that call them home. At the end of a full day, retreat to your private Malay-style pavilion or villa, stop first at or the beachside Quiet Pool to refresh and recharge. 

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Why Pick Just One?

Unforgettable moments await when you lift off aboard the Four Seasons Private Jet. Travel the globe in style, following carefully curated itineraries that take you to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks. Explore Easter Island, Petra and the Great Barrier Reef – all UNESCO World Heritage sites – on the Ancient Explorers journey. Head to Victoria Falls in Zambia (one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World), the pyramids of Giza and the glories of Athens, stops on the African Wonders trip. Or explore the Americas and Antarctica on Uncharted Discovery, with stops at both a New Wonder (Machu Picchu) and a Natural Wonder (Iguazú Falls). Whenever you tap into your sense of wonder, the entire world becomes ripe for exploration. 

 

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

Where will your sense of wonder take you next?

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The Transformative Power of Travel

The best trips are the ones that resonate long after our suitcases are unpacked, because they’ve changed us in a profound way. We’ve returned home different from the way we were before we left. We see the world – and ourselves – in a new way.

This new outlook on the world is due, in part, to the way we interact with it during our journeys. That’s where Four Seasons comes in, offering unique and immersive experiences that engage all the senses so you can more deeply connect with the destination. Whether you’re looking to dive into local culture or history or to find a new way to relax and recharge, these Four Seasons activities will help you see with fresh eyes.

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Adventures That Shift Your Perspective

Even the smallest moments can lead to a big shift in our outlook – so imagine the impact of the gentle giants who live in the jungle that surrounds Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle. Accompany a mahout guide through grasslands to the river, where the elephants play. Watch them splash about as you learn their stories – many were rescued from Thailand’s crowded city streets – and discover their distinct personalities, a lesson in building trust and letting go.

Meet the Tented Camp elephants

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Step back in time at the new San Domenico Palace, Taormina, a Four Seasons Hotel: The Palace itself was originally a 14th-century convent, and its ancient architecture and rich character are on full display, with traditional cloisters, choir stalls, restored frescoes, and artefacts and relics on exhibit in the Galleria. Take in panoramic views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, and then see more with a guided tour of Sicily’s varied history. Observe the influence of a series of cultures in landmarks like the ancient Greek theatre, the Palazzo Corvaja and Piazza IX Aprile, all engaging connections between the past, present and future.

Explore the island’s rich history

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Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole is surrounded by some of America’s most rugged peaks, celebrated ski runs and breathtaking scenery – the gateway to both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. The sky is the limit when it comes to adventure – literally: The Ski Concierge will have your gear ready and waiting as you hop into a private helicopter for a full day of skiing or snowboarding at 12,000 to 15,000 vertical feet. Get a new perspective on the world as you gaze down at fresh, untracked powder stretching as far as you can see, challenging you to embrace heart-pounding adventure.

Get ready for year-round adventure

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Cultural Immersion That Stays With You

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Step into any of Madrid’s tablaos and you’ll discover the city’s wildly popular pastime: flamenco dance. But to truly understand the rhythm of this Andalusian dance form, try its steps yourself – let the Concierge at the new Four Seasons Hotel Madrid arrange private flamenco lessons. Stamp and tap your way to a new level of cultural understanding, set to the fiery chords of a Spanish guitar.

Find your rhythm

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Escape the noise of everyday life and discover the vast stillness of the Agafay desert, about 45 minutes from Four Seasons Resort Marrakech. Set out with a Resort guide on camels to experience the desert’s faded orange landscape. As your surroundings shift from rocky flats to half-melted hills, you’ll discover time for introspection. Afterwards, return to the Resort, nibble on ghoriba cookies and sip tiny glasses of mint tea as you reflect on the clarity that comes from a day outdoors.

Enjoy the beauty of the desert

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Rejuvenation That May Also Heal Body and Mind

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Harness the power of the herd at Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe: The Equus Experience pairs guests with horses for leadership training and personal and spiritual growth through equine interaction. Soak in breathtaking views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains as you break down boundaries and interact with the animals, learning to coach and guide without fuss or drama. As you learn more about working with the horses, you’ll discover you’re learning more about yourself, and you might just come away with fresh insights that can affect how you love, live and lead once you’re back home.

Indulge in a holistic wellness retreat

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Hidden in the lush jungle greenery overlooking the Ayung River Valley, the thatched-roof Sacred River Spa at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan is a serene, nurturing environment ideal for restoring balance to body, mind and spirit. Traditional Balinese chakra ceremonies are meant to align you with the energy of the Earth: The Muladhara ceremony will use singing bowls and deep, slow massage to cleanse your root chakra, said to bring inner peace and help you embrace your full potential. The Swadhisthana ceremony combines meditation and massage to balance the sacral chakra, helping you tap into your creativity and to encourage connection.

Balance your mind, body and soul

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

Where will your explorations take you?

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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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Reconnect With the World: How Travel
Can Free Your Creativity

When you sit down for a tea ceremony at Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto, you’re bound to hear the Japanese saying ichi-go ichi-e (literally, “one time, one meeting”). It’s a gentle reminder that every single moment – no matter how small – is a unique opportunity, never to be repeated.

For photographer and creative director Dave Krugman, noticing and capturing those moments, like his bamboo forest image above, is a way of life.

 


“One of the reasons I love to make photographs is because I find memory to be a very fleeting thing,” says Krugman. “For me, a photograph is a stimulus for a cascade of memories. And every time I look at a photo I’ve taken, it takes me back to that moment and the feelings I was having and the people I met and the environment I was in. That’s why photography is such an important part of my life.”

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In Kyoto, Four Seasons helped introduce Krugman to a variety of new people, environments and experiences: A Hotel guide led him on a tour of a 1,000-year-old bamboo forest, and the Concierge arranged a visit to a local lantern workshop, where artisan lantern masters taught him how to carefully layer thin sheets of paper over a frame to build his own mini lantern. Krugman also sat down at Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto with Poppy Jamie – an author, entrepreneur, and founder of mindfulness app Happy Not Perfect – to record a podcast sharing more about his personal journey and perspective on how travel is essential to a creative life.

“I’ve learned that everything we look at, there’s a craftsman behind it,” he said.

Known for his moody yet vibrant cityscapes and street photography, Krugman cites travel as one of the biggest influences on not only his art, but on his relationship with the world around him. “There is nothing more inspiring and invigorating than travel,” he says. “It always shows me that the world is so much larger than we imagine, so much more diverse. Witnessing this complexity and the vastness of the world is a humbling feeling, and it inspires me. Photography allows me to connect more deeply with all I see and all I experience.”

In Kyoto – and when travelling with Four Seasons – the opportunities for connection are seemingly endless.

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Discover experiences that bring history to life

With ancient architectural masterpieces around every corner, family-owned shops selling handmade creations that have been made the same way for centuries, and a culinary scene featuring everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to chic craft cocktail bars and unassuming noodle joints serving up delightfully slurpable bowls of ramen, Kyoto is a city of artisans.

Explore Kyoto with Four Seasons

“I love the attention to detail in Japan,” Krugman says. “I feel like everything has its place and its ritual and its reason. As somebody who is such a visual person, it’s a real treat to experience that.”

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The atmosphere at Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto is no different. Set around the 800-year-old Shakusui-en pond garden – itself immortalized in a 12th-century epic poem – every setting is created with care and intention. There is beauty and meaning in everything. All you have to do is be willing to connect with it.

“Being a photographer and traveller has absolutely shifted my perspective,” Krugman says. “If I’m in a place I’ve never been before, every single thing I see provides an incredible education about the area I’m in.”

Try activities outside your comfort zone

After travelling the world twice over, Krugman can attest to one of the most essential components of a successful trip, no matter the destination: Keeping an open mind.

“I try to leave a lot of breathing room for spontaneity and serendipity, because my favourite moments are when something happens, the path kind of diverges, and I’m exposed to this thing that I couldn’t have planned even if I wanted to,” he says.

This doesn’t just apply to travel, but to the creative process – and to some of the most worthwhile experiences. “The best experiences in my life have been things that are just outside my comfort zone,” says Krugman.

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In Kyoto, that could mean immersing yourself in the world of geiko and maiko – kimono-clad entertainers who perform traditional song and dance – at an ozashiki asobi dinner in the Gion geisha district. Learn the art of Zen meditation from the deputy head monk of Shoden-Eigen-in. Or head to Kibune train station for a walk along the river, passing crimson torii gates and fragrant cedar trees on your way to Kurama Temple for a traditional onsen bath. Being open to adventure can help you discover the city’s secrets.

Explore the world with Four Seasons

“My travel philosophy is to go into every situation with an open mind and a big smile,” Krugman says. “That attitude can open up so many doors for you.”

Uncover a new perspective on everyday life

For Krugman and for many of us, travel is much more than just a vacation. It offers a chance to connect with the world around us and discover new ways of doing things. Simply being somewhere new invites us to look at things differently, even something we do all the time – like sipping tea.

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Discover centuries of tradition and spiritual beauty at a Tea Master Ceremony in the Hotel’s Shakusui-tei – the intimate Tea Ceremony Room. A local tea master will teach you the history of the brew and the Japanese rituals for steeping, pouring and savouring the perfect cup – a flavourful taste of local customs.

“There is no better education than travel, because you’re exposed to so many new ideas, ideas you never even knew existed,” Krugman says. “And when you can incorporate that into your day-to-day life, you just grow with every new experience.”

RECONNECT THROUGH LIFE-CHANGING TRAVEL

Your journey begins here

Kyoto lanterns