Luxury in Riviera Maya: Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection

By Kellie Walton, Freelance Writer

At the end of July, a select group of MIT travel advisors came together in Riviera Maya to experience ultimate luxury at Etéreo, an Auberge Resorts Collection property. During the trip, the group was treated to high-touch service, incredible food, luxury accommodations and an all around fantastic time. 

If you have clients heading to the Cancun/Riviera Maya area, Etéreo is an ultra-lux option that feels secluded and intimate, and is sure to be a premium experience for any traveler. Here’s how we spent our time on property. 

Day One

Each MIT member was greeted at CUN with a private transfer, complete with bottled water, beer, treats from the property’s executive chef, and an iPad with property information to browse on the 45 minute ride to Riviera Maya. Once you arrive at the property’s front gate, the journey lasts another three kilometers through lush landscape until you reach the stunning grounds of Etéreo. 

We explored the property at leisure before meeting as a group for site visits and a photography experience, where a professional snapped this stunning photo for us. 

We enjoyed a welcome dinner at Che Che, a Japanese and Mexican hybrid restaurant with outdoor seating that offers stunning views of the property. The “Japex” tasting menu included things like crispy rice with Wagyu beef tartare, chipotle roasted mahi mahi and flan for dessert. 

Day Two

Etéreo is passionate about creating experiences that make memories, and day two started off strong with a beachfront HIIT workout at 7 a.m., with an option to attend indoor yoga afterward. We enjoyed breakfast at leisure daily, with an incredible room service menu or seated option inside the property’s signature restaurant, Itzam. 

We were each treated to a spa experience rooted in tranquility and Mayan tradition – it started with a cleansing ritual followed by an incredible 60-minute massage and access to the wellness circuit with a man made cenote at its center. The circuit included a sauna, steam room, clay room, sound experience and an outdoor hydrotherapy circuit. 

After we all were sufficiently relaxed, we enjoyed an afternoon spent lounging poolside in a private cabana and a family-style lunch on the beach. 

That evening, our group met for a Mexican wine tasting led by the property’s sommelier, where we sampled reds, whites and bubbles from varying regions in Mexico, learning more about the unique qualities and flavors found in Mexican wines. 

From there, we headed to a stunning outdoor area for the Abuela Dinner, an incredible culinary experience where the property’s chefs prepare a family-style meal utilizing their own abuelas’ recipes. We enjoyed dishes like fresh catch, chicken with poblano and mole, mushrooms birria, and cactus salad. To cap our night, we enjoyed cocktails and conversation around Etéreo’s sunken fire pit. 

Day Three

On our final full day at Etéreo, we began with a sunrise sound bath on one of the property’s suspended nets. After a beautifully meditative experience, we enjoyed breakfast at leisure before meeting at the beach for a careful combination of relaxation and adventure. Etéreo offers rentals onsite like paddle boards and kayaks, so we took full advantage by kayaking to a cenote just a few minutes off property. We donned our snorkel gear and explored the stunning Caribbean waters, which were filled with beautiful corals, fish, starfish and more. 

Lunch was extra special because we were able to make it ourselves! We gathered in Itzam for a hands-on cooking class experience, where we made guacamole, ceviche, and tortillas from scratch while sipping yummy margaritas. 

Our experience-filled day continued with a bracelet making class, where we carefully selected colored beads that represented varying energies – perfect souvenir friendship bracelets for our group! 

As the grand finale for our perfect getaway, our group was treated to a coursed meal in a stunning waterfront setting. We enjoyed dishes like oysters, bone marrow, tacos, prawns, pork belly, and cauliflower puree. 

Etéreo created an incredibly memorable experience for our group. The grounds were absolutely stunning and the staff was exemplary, and the plethora of onsite activities and experiences make this a “choose your own adventure” experience for luxury travelers. We were well loved, and we know your clients will be, too!

The Southern hospitality of Charleston on an MIT FAM

A small group of advisors recently experienced the Lowcountry life and true Southern hospitality in Isle of Palms and Charleston, South Carolina.

Our first stop was on sunny Isle of Palms where we were instantly greeted by the salty air and refreshing ocean breeze. We were excited to start off the FAM with some relaxation and beach-time at Sweetgrass Inn at Wild Dunes Resort.

We quickly settled in and were taken on a lovely boat cruise with Barrier Island Eco Tours to the spectacular Capers Island. We learned about the ecosystem and marine life in Charleston, spotting local birds and dolphins along the way. We even stopped at an oyster bed and cracked open this local delicacy to sample on our ride over to the island. Part of the experience to Capers Island is having the chance to visit Boneyard Beach, which is known for being one of the most photographed beaches in the country. The group then enjoyed a classic Lowcountry Boil served on right the beach as we watched the beautiful sunset. Then we made our way back to the resort. We ended the evening with some delicious appetizers at Oystercatcher, known for its sustainably-sourced seafood and fusion menu with shareable plates.

The next morning, we kicked off the day with a tour of this award-winning property, which sits in its own gated resort community on Isle of Palms. We then had some time at leisure to enjoy one of the many fantastic resort amenities. Some of the options were tennis, golf, pickleball, bike riding, a spa treatment, or having time by the pool or beach. Most of the group decided to zen out and enjoy a massage at the spa at Sweetgrass Inn. We quickly discovered the spa was quite the tranquil hidden oasis at the resort.  

After a morning of R&R, we were ready to discover more of Charleston and were escorted downtown for an afternoon walking tour hosted by Bulldog Tours and Explore Charleston, the local tourism board. We were immediately enchanted by the beautiful historic homes and charming cobblestone streets. After seeing the highlights, such as City Market, King Street, Rainbow Row, and Waterfront Park, our group had worked up a huge appetite. We then made our way to an iconic local spot, Leon’s Oyster Shop, where we casually dined on the most delectable seafood, oysters, and fried chicken found in all of Charleston.

 For our final day, we made our way downtown and checked into the dreamy boutique Hotel Emeline. This hotel sits in one of the best downtown locations, near the famous King Street and City Market. There are endless shops and restaurants all within a few steps of the hotel. After checking in, our group had the afternoon at leisure to enjoy the hotel and explore downtown. We then were treated to a tour of the hotel followed by a cocktail reception in the cozy courtyard of Frannie & the Fox, where we were served their version of an Italian Spritz and some scrumptious Italian bites.

We ended our last night in Charleston mingling with other advisors and travel partners at a Millennials in Travel networking event and reception. This was held at the elegant Thoroughbred Club at Charleston Place, a historic and timeless luxury hotel located in the heart of downtown. It was such a wonderful opportunity to network with other local partners and fellow millennials in the travel industry, and we all left with even more new connections and friends.

 We were sad that our trip had quickly come to an end. Charleston is a one-of-a-kind destination that immediately draws you in and captivates your heart. As soon as you set foot in this destination, you feel the warmth and genuine hospitality from the people here. It’s also a place that really has something for everyone. It has history, culture, great shopping, a phenomenal dining scene, and also incredible beaches and islands when you are ready to escape the hustle and bustle. But ultimately, it’s a place where you feel at home. We all left a piece of our hearts in Charleston, and we can’t wait until we return back “home” again.

Sustainable Shoutout: Singita

Singita is one of the travel industry’s leaders when it comes to sustainability. Throughout their 15 lodges, they have implemented sustainable and conservation initiatives. We sat down with Dr. Andrea Ferry, Sustainability Co-Ordinator at Singita, to learn more about their efforts.

Dr. Andrea Ferry

Photo credit: Singita

How do you define sustainability?

At Singita, conservation encapsulates an interdependent relationship between three critical components: Biodiversity, Community & Sustainability. They are all integral to our model. At Singita, a sustainable world is one in which people enjoy happy, healthy lives within their fair share of the earth’s resources, leaving space for wildlife and wilderness.

Photo credit: Singita

Why is sustainable travel important?

Solar panels in Singita Kruger National Park.

Photo credit: Singita

Our high-value, low-volume ecotourism model is an interdependent relationship between biodiversity, community, and sustainability. It is a complicated and multi-faceted model pioneered 28 years ago, with the first lodge (Singita Ebony) in the Sabi Sand, South Africa.

Singita’s 100-year purpose is to protect and preserve large areas of African wilderness for future generations. Every decision is governed by our purpose, and this has been in place since the very beginning. In fact, we feel it’s more urgent now than ever.

At Singita, conservation is our passion and purpose. Over the past 28 years, our commitment to safeguarding the continent’s wildlife populations and wilderness areas – as well as creating economic independence within communities living alongside them – has seen us implement strategic partnerships with non-profit Funds & Trusts in each of the regions in which we operate.

Alongside our partner Funds & Trusts, we are the guardians of large areas of pristine wilderness and responsible for thriving community partnership projects that make a tangible difference in the lives of people living and working in and around our lodges.

Fulfilling our conservation promise
Managed and functioning independently from Singita, our non-profit Funds & Trusts employ some of the best conservation experts on the continent. They drive strategic and critical initiatives that fulfil Singita’s commitment to biodiversity, sustainability and community partnerships.
• Tanzania – The Grumeti Fund
• Zimbabwe – The Malilangwe Trust
• SA – Singita Lowveld Trust

What is one thing you want travelers to know about sustainable travel?

Photo credit: Singita

Guests should choose a responsible ecotourism operator to travel with. Select a reputable, proven conservation brand with a stellar track record, where they can see incredible projects and positive results.

Become responsible travellers – support community or conservation projects that resonate with them. For example, at Singita Kruger National Park, you could visit the Singita Community Culinary School and take a cooking lesson and buy our cookbook – funds from both support the students. A third community culinary school opened in Rwanda.

Alternatively, guests can support and donate to any of Singita’s conservation or community projects via our partner funds and trusts. Guests can leave a safari knowing they have contributed to early childhood development, anti-poaching canine units, community projects, leopard research, lion recovery or many other life-changing projects.

On 1 August 2021, Singita introduced a carbon-offsetting levy for all bed nights booked. The funds generated being used to purchase verified carbon credits from accredited service providers in South Africa and Tanzania. Carbon offset projects not only mitigate carbon, but also provide various other benefits for local communities. Travel can really be used as a force for good.

UN DEVELOPMENT GOALS

Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all

Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts

Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss

ABOUT SINGITA

At Singita, a sustainable world is one in which people enjoy happy, healthy lives within their fair share of the earth’s resources, leaving space for wildlife and wilderness.

We recognise that sustainable operations across all our lodges and support offices play a major role in achieving our purpose to preserve and protect large areas of African wilderness for future generations. We consistently strive to be more sustainable by doing all we can to reduce our ecological footprint and to improve the lives of our people, and those in neighbouring communities.

Photo credit: Singita

We aim to embed One Planet Living thinking throughout our operations so it becomes a natural part of how we conduct business, strategise, build new properties, and create guest experiences. We are part of the international network of organisations using Bioregional’s One Planet Living framework. Our One Planet Action Plan has been endorsed by Bioregional as demonstrating leadership in One Planet Living.

Bioregional’s One Planet Living sustainability framework comprises ten guiding principles and its detailed goals were developed together with WWF. Backed by science and many years of hands-on experience, this highly flexible framework helps organisations around the world achieve their vision of a brighter, better future. https://singita.com/conservation/sustainability

Singita Serengeti adopted the framework in 2012 and since 2016, all our properties have been committed to its principles. It serves as a basis for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, saving water, improving waste management and recycling, having a positive impact on local economies and conserving precious natural resources. These sustainability principles are critical to the fulfilment of Singita’s 100-year purpose and drive us towards our goal of being a completely carbon-neutral operation.

Millennials in Travel Go Down Under for a Bucket-List “Pure New Zealand” Adventure

By James Lilla, Out and About Holidays, LLC

A select group of travel professionals were chosen for an epic 8-day journey throughout New Zealand last fall. Before heading on our overnight flight from LAX, the advisors met their “Pure New Zealand” trip leaders at the most epic outdoor airport lounge for a welcome reception, complete with fire pits and a sunset view!

 Within 90 minutes of touching down in Queenstown after our drama free overnight flight via Air New Zealand, our adventurous travel-pro’s were already bungee jumping 120 meters off Kawarau Bridge Bungy, home of the first Bungy Jump in the world! 

Stop 1: Lake Wanaka

The advisors then took in 2 nights on the lake at Edgewater Hotel in the beautiful resort-town of Lake Wanaka among the mountains. The travelers were able to enjoy wine tasting, hiking in the clear and sunny mountains over Lake Wanaka, and wire-climbing along the highest waterfall climb in the world at “Lord of the Rungs.”

 Stop 2: Lake Tekapo

Next stop, we took in the ponds and mountain-views of sunny Omarama from cozy wood heated hot-tubs before journeying to Lake Tekapo, a lake so blue it almost looked fake! After checking into the modern Peppers Bluewater Resort nestled in the tall wind blown grass along Lake Tekapo, we took in a hearty culinary delight of steak and ribs at the Dark Sky Project Diner. We then bundled up and headed up to the largest dark sky reserve in the world, to enjoy all the planets from world-class microscopes and learn more about the local Mauri astronomy, which has been around for thousands of years.

 The next morning, we took in the stunning scenery by hiking at Mount Cook National Park before heading to the sky for an aerial view over the snowy, mountainous and glacial park. Before heading out of Lake Tekapo, we were able to take in the amazing views, cocktails and salmon at the chic Tekapo Lake View Grill.

 Stop 3: Wellington

Our next stop included a short flight via Air New Zealand to the San Francisco-like city of Wellington. We started with a buzzy brewery tour and were educated about New Zealand’s exploding craft-brew scene among the city’s street art. After checking in to the posh and trendy Sofitel Wellington, we headed out for authentic Spanish tapas at the hip spot, Havana Bar.

 The next day, we took a short ferry ride over to the Kapiti Island Nature reserve to learn more about the fascinating, forward thinking and sustainable Maori-culture. The Mauri explained their years-long successful effort to preserve the endangered species of the island. The local island inhabitants welcomed us to a traditional breakfast and shared their family’s history and efforts to preserve the holy island from over-development and commercialization.

 Stop 4: Hamilton

After Wellington, we hopped on another short Air New Zealand Flight to Hamilton airport. Upon arrival, we drove through the gorgeous and lush green countryside for an hour before visiting an underground cave to try “black water rafting” in search of glow in the dark “glow worms.” The frigid temps of the water will never be forgotten and we have the pictures to prove it! After checking in at Hidden Lake Hotel, we took the most beautiful drive of our lives through the rolling hills and outdoor movie set of “Hobbiton” and “Lord of the Rings.” We were able to see the “Shire” by day and night and had the most movie worthy and gluttonous whimsical feast at the Green Dragon Inn.

Stop 5: Auckland

After sleeping off the most epic of all feasts, we took a private transfer to Auckland for the immersive “All Blacks'' rugby experience. The advisors were treated to the island’s dominating rugby history and were even generously gifted their own official “All Blacks” personalized jerseys. That evening, we headed up to a scenic rooftop restaurant for a light dinner and cocktails while taking in the views of the stunning and cosmopolitan waterfront city. We were able to get an amazing night's rest at the smart and sustainable Hotel Britomart, New Zealad’s first 5 star green hotel!

Another unique gift about visiting New Zealand, is that you can maximize your last day in Auckland before heading to the airport for your red-eye in the evening. On our last day, we took the scenic and relaxing hour-long ferry ride to Waiheke Island, New Zealand’s most expensive island, filled with beautiful wineries and art galleries. We went on a beautiful seaside hike along the sheep-filled rolling hills and then went way underground in a former United States naval bunker, which is now used as an event space, including concerts, dinners and even a yoga room… In a former WWII bunker! To finish off the trip, we had a scenic wine tasting lunch at the renowned Stonyridge Winery, set among the vast rolling vineyards. After arriving at the airport for our farewell trip home, Air New Zealand treated us to their massive Auckland airport lounge, where we all sadly said our final goodbyes.

A Millennial's Guide to Luxury Peru

Peru and Machu Picchu have been on my bucket-list for years! So when I was given the opportunity to be hosted by MIT and the swanky Belmond group, I knew I hit the jackpot! 

Here’s how we spent our time experiencing Peru.

Stop 1: Lima

Our journey began at the beautiful Belmond Miraflores Park in Lima, Peru. Located on the cliffs of the Pacific Ocean, Belmond Miraflores is the perfect address to begin your exploration of the vibrant city of Lima. Our first meal together was in the beautiful flower-filled garden of Museo Larco followed by a guided tour of ancient Peruvian and Incan art, including a special collection of erotic art. 

Stop 2: Cusco

The next morning we were on a short flight to Cusco. Formerly the capital of the Inca civilization and later conquered by the Spanish in the 1500s, Cusco is a unique mix of Incan ruins and Spanish colonial architecture with narrow cobblestone streets and lively squares. We were warmly welcomed at our second Belmond hotel, Monasterio, a former monastery, with a cup of coca tea. The main courtyard features a stunning 300-year-old cedar tree where you can breakfast in the mornings and enjoy cocktails in the evenings. Each hotel room is unique, and my two-story suite was exquisite. After briefly exploring the hotel's many hidden corridors, we were driven to the very top of the city for a private lunch overlooking all of Cusco. We feasted like kings and queens at over 11,000 feet, while a three-piece band serenaded us. We spent the rest of the afternoon on a guided tour of the city including a visit to the Santo Domino Temple, a church that was built on the foundations of a significant Incan temple. 

Stop 3: Sacred Valley

The following day, we took an hour and half drive from Cusco to the Sacred Valley where we had the privilege of visiting the incredible Ninos del Arco Iris Foundation. This non-profit supports vulnerable children ages 3-13 through education, health, and nutrition. We were treated to several beautiful songs, planted trees with students, andended our visit with a traditional Peruvian dance performed by two very talented students. 

With our hearts filled, we traveled a short distance to Rio Sagrado, our third Belmond property. We toured the spacious rooms, beautiful spa and expansive resort grounds. We lunched along the Urubamba River and then played with the resort's friendly llamas and alpacas. This hotel is truly a peaceful retreat. On our way back to Cusco, we visited the magnificent Maras salt flats. Supplied by a natural water source, these 2000 Peruvian pink salt ponds have been hand-harvested in the same way for the last 400 years. Upon return to our hotel, Monasterio, we were treated to an exceptional dinner & opera performance at El Tupay.

Stop 4: Machu Picchu

The next morning we boarded the famous Hiram Bingham, A Belmond Train for our journey to Machu Picchu. The swanky 1920's style carriages, including two dining cars, bar car, and an open-deck observation car, are the most luxurious way to travel through the Sacred Valley to the Incan citadel. Live music, a delicious brunch, and refreshing cocktails set the mood for 3 hours of non-stop fun! Upon arriving at the Aguas Calientes train station we took a short bus ride to the Machu Picchu entrance where we checked into our fourth Belmond hotel, Sanctuary Lodge. With no delay, we entered the Machu Picchu citadel complex for a privately guided tour. Standing at almost 8,000 feet above sea level, the ancient citadel is surrounded by massive Andean mountains, some soaring to 17,000 feet. The Inca people chose to build their cities at these high elevations to be closer to their sun god. Machu Picchu is comprised of agricultural terraces, homes, and temples; each stone of these giant walls hand-carved and laid with expert precision.

After leaving the citadel complex, we walked a hundred feet back to Sanctuary Lodge, which is the only hotel located at the entrance of Machu Picchu. Once the citadel is closed for the day, the guests of the Sanctuary Lodge are the only people in the area. The stillness and quiet underscore the gravity of this ancient site.

Early the next morning, before the crowds arrived, we were given the opportunity to climb to the top of Machu Picchu Mountain. The lush, jungle flora and fauna and our wonderful guides were a welcome distraction from the thousands of steep stairs that we climbed to reach the 10,000-foot peak. But the 360-degree views were absolutely breathtaking and worth every step! Returning to the Sanctuary Lodge, sweaty and accomplished, we showered and became chefs during a cooking and Pisco Sour class. In late afternoon we returned to Aguas Calientes to board the Hiram Bingham for dinner, lively music, plenty of dancing, and some impromptu karaoke during our return journey to Cusco. Upon arriving in Cusco, we stayed at our fifth Belmond hotel, Palacio Nazarenas. Originally a 16th-century Spanish colonial home, built over an Incan foundation, this hotel with 55 spacious suites, the first outdoor heated pool in the city, and a world-class spa is an urban oasis. 

Stop 5: Andean Explorer

The next morning we boarded the Andean Explorer, A Belmond Train for a two night journey through the high plains of the Andean countryside. The Andean Explorer is a luxury hotel on tracks, with two dining cars, two bar cars, a spa car, and an open-air observation deck. Our journey began with delicious food, good conversation, board games, and views of ice-capped mountains and highlands filled with roaming llamas and alpacas. La Raya, at 14,000 feet elevation was our first stop where we were greeted by locals selling their llama and alpaca blankets, scarves, and toys. The next morning we awoke in Puno with the sunrise over Lake Titicaca. Mid-morning we departed by boat to the floating islands of Uros. The indigenous Uru people use the native Totora reeds to build floating islands, homes, and boats. Today approximately 1200 people live on 70 man-made reed islands. In the afternoon, we explored the city of Puno and then re-boarded the Andean Explorer for dinner, live music, and lots of dancing as we enjoyed our final night on this magical adventure. The last morning of our rail journey was marked by stunning views of the highlands and lakes as we made our way to the city of Arequipa. 

I am so grateful for the opportunity to experience the warm people, rich history, and stunning natural beauty of Peru. The Belmond hotels and trains of Peru were exceptional in decor, authenticity and service. Thank you to the Belmond team who created a seamless luxury journey. The memories and friendships made will last a lifetime. 

 - By Mary Ann Erdos | Weekend Savvy Travel