Seattle Team - Departure Lounge

27/05/2024

As we mark this Memorial Day with a long weekend and/or the unofficial kick-off to summer, let’s not forget the meaning of the holiday and those we remember. Wishing you the comfort you may need and feeling the gratitude we all owe and carry. At our best, we stand together.

🇺🇸 ❤ 🇺🇸

05/05/2024

Cinco de Mayo may have you craving Mexico — and we are here to help you navigate this beautiful country!!!

We count 13 (!) Partners across Mexico who make it a priority to elevate your Mexican vacation!

💚 : Experience Mayan culture and its history up close on the Riviera Maya and celebrate ancient rituals that once made the civilization great

🤍 : A luxury resort in the heart of the Maya jungle, designed to support a profound + vibrant connection with nature and oneself

❤️ : Perched on one of Cabo’s only swimmable beaches, go for a luxurious, yet completely laid-back experience

💚 : A stylish retreat set along the Riviera Nayarit, complete with palm trees, private plunge pools, and picturesque views of the Pacific

🤍 : When you’re dreaming of sparkling seas and white-sand beaches, head to this luxurious escape on Baja’s Sea of Cortés

❤️ : Taking inspiration from ancient Mayan philosophies, everything here radiates spirituality and a connection to nature

💚 : Once the villa of an Italian duchess, the secluded, 50-acre estate just outside of Tulum features lush gardens and a pristine beach

🤍 : Visually stunning and set along a secluded enclave of Punta Nizuc, where ancient Mayan astronomers studied clear night skies

❤️ : Overlooking the Sea of Cortez’s dramatic coastline, unforgettable experiences await at this Los Cabos resort

💚 : Woven seamlessly into the diverse, dramatic vistas of one of the last tropical beachfront rainforests in Riviera Nayarit

🤍 : Whether you come seeking nature, luxury, or Punta de Mita’s legendary waves, this is the laid-back seaside retreat you’ve been dreaming of

❤️ : Spanning 100 acres of palm-fringed coastline in Cancún, the property melds rich Mexican heritage with refined sophistication

💚 : Located in the town of Cabo San Lucas, with singular access via a private tunnel carved through the base of Pedregal Mountain

Just say sí and contact us today!! 🇲🇽

01/05/2024

We’re on standby….ready and waiting to assist with all your travel needs!

25/04/2024

Year after year, Greece remains one of our top booked destinations! Not only do we love helping our clients achieve amazing, memorable trips but we also truly love listening to everyone’s feedback in order to make our services even better!

Here’s what recent clients who just returned from Greece had to say:

“Jen, I wanted to thank you so much for your help with our trip! It was such an awesome experience and the hotels and transportation were so seamless and convenient- we would definitely love to use you again in the future. I have attached a few pics. You are great!”

If you want a “seamless” trip don’t wait any longer! Call us today to plan your next holiday! We have expert partners all over the world ready to help us create a custom itinerary just for you!!! Our partners are trusted, verified, and provide lots of perks!!! Where do you want to go next???
🇬🇷🏛️🌅✈️

17/04/2024

Spring Break in Cabo! So fun to book for this darling group of RHS Seniors and their families! Good luck to you all on your future endeavors! 💫

27/03/2024

Thank you Preferred Hotels & Resorts (Lindsey Graff!) for a fun evening at SPIN Seattle! We love when our favorite suppliers come through to visit and share updates on their properties and to learn more about the exceptional experiences they can provide our clients. So fun to catch up and play a little ping pong!!! 🏓

17/03/2024

🍀Happy Saint Patrick’s Day!🍀

“May the Irish hills caress you. May her lakes and rivers bless you. May the luck of the Irish enfold you. May the blessings of Saint Patrick behold you.”

Our own Irish blessing comes in the form of three Partners across the Emerald Isle, all waiting to provide a warm Irish welcome to you + yours.

☘️ Make your way west to Ashford Castle, the former home of the Guinness family. A multi-year winner of the Forbes Five Star Award, the estate's spa also earned its own Five Star Award this year. A royal escape begins as soon as you enter the grand stone gates.. Enjoy extraordinary dining and fine Irish cuisine, watch hawks soar at Ireland’s first school of falconry, and restore inner peace at the state-of-the-art spa. Warmth defines your welcome and your stay, with staff delighted to delight *you* at every turn.

☘️ Just an hour outside of Dublin, Ballyfin Demesne is at its heart a country retreat nestled within 614 acres of private parkland featuring a 28-acre lake, ancient woods, follies, and grottoes. Long-admired as the most lavish Regency mansion in the country, you'll find 20 bedrooms, magnificent grandeur, and unparalleled seclusion and privacy -- all wrapped in refined elegance with a relaxed approach that is wonderfully warm and welcoming.

☘️ Sheen Falls Lodge is a five-star Relais & Châteaux hotel in verdant southwest Ireland, renowned for luxurious accommodations and lush hospitality. Consider it your country house-away-from-home, from which you can also explore and enjoy the surrounding woodlands, picturesque Sheen River, and cascading waterfalls while enjoying hiking, biking, horseback riding, salmon fishing, falconry, and kayaking.

And as Partners, all properties extend priority upgrades and an elevated experience to guests who book with us!

💚 Lucky us. Lucky you: contact us today! 💚

21/02/2024

Is Morocco on your list? If not, it absolutely needs to be! Our clients just returned from their "magical" trip to Morocco, where they stayed at the stunning Marrakech Royal Mansour. This VIP hotel is a true oasis in the heart of Marrakech, with luxurious accommodations, peaceful courtyards, and intimate restaurants. Each riad at the Royal Mansour boasts a private rooftop terrace and plunge pool, offering breathtaking views of the city.

But the magic didn't stop there - they also spent a night in the Agafay desert at a tented camp, immersing themselves in the beauty of the desert landscape. Our partner, Experience Morocco, made sure every detail of their trip was perfect. From their personalized itinerary to knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences, they truly went above and beyond to showcase the rich culture, traditions, and cuisines of Morocco.

Experience Morocco offers a wide range of tours and experiences, including private guided tours, desert adventures, cultural experiences, and luxurious accommodations. If you're looking to create unforgettable travel memories and immerse yourself in the beauty of Morocco, Experience Morocco has got you covered.

Here’s what our lovely clients had to say:

Now that we are home, I wanted to send you a note of thanks for our magical Marrakesh adventure. Experience Morocco created an incredible itinerary to highlight the history, culture, and beauty of this historical city and highlight the warmth of its people. Thanks to Houcine, our amazing guide, we learned so much about the history and culture of the region and this context deepened our appreciation for our experiences. Houcine knew where to take us and what to avoid, he helped with the language, has a wonderful sense of humor and patience and made sure we had the space to be ourselves. We didn’t realize until we arrived that the Marrakesh Marathon was running that Sunday. Ben spontaneously decided he wanted to run in it and Houcine made sure Ben was registered and ready to participate! He ran his personal best marathon on this trip! Our accommodations were like nothing I’ve ever experienced; luxury but authentic to Morocco. We hated to leave. I highly recommend Experience Morocco. The owner checked in on us several times to make sure we were having the best experience possible. Also, I think Houcine was a bit of a local celebrity-guide; he seemed to know everyone!

You have organized such amazing trips for us. I honestly can’t imagine planning travel without you! The impact you and Departure Lounge in creating amazing experiences and special memories is hard to describe in words so I’m sharing a few photographs that you are welcome to post. We truly appreciate you.

Hope this inspires you to start planning your own trip to Morocco! Call us today!
🌍✨🐪

14/02/2024

If travel is your love language, the quickest route to falling head-over-heels with trip planning is to work with us!!! We're your partner, your wing(wo)man, your advisor, your guide -- we're your matchmaker to journeys that will make your spirit soar and your heart go pitter-patter. And the memories? Those last forever.

Contact us today to start planning your next trip! XOXO

11/01/2024

🎉 Happy New Year, dear friends and clients! 🎉

As we bid farewell to an extraordinary 2023, we can't help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude for the trust and support you have shown us throughout this incredible journey. 🙏✨

2023 was a year filled with unforgettable adventures, breathtaking destinations, and cherished memories. Together, we explored the world's most luxurious corners, indulging in the finest experiences that travel has to offer. From sipping champagne atop the Eiffel Tower to diving into crystal-clear waters in the Maldives, every moment was an absolute dream come true. 💫🌍

But let us tell you, 2024 is already off to a magnificent start! We have an array of extraordinary travel experiences lined up, waiting to be discovered by you. From hidden gems to iconic landmarks, we promise to make this year even more remarkable than the last. 🌟🌺

We are truly humbled by the trust you have placed in us to curate your most precious memories. It is an honor to be a part of your travel stories, and we can't wait to embark on new adventures together. 🥂✈️

So, here's to a year filled with laughter, joy, and the exploration of new horizons. May 2024 bring you endless opportunities to create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime. 🎇🌈

Thank you once again for being a part of our luxury travel family. We are excited to continue this incredible journey with you, and we can't wait to see what wonders await us in the coming months. 🌟❤️

Wishing you a Happy New Year full of wanderlust and unforgettable experiences!✨

With love and gratitude,
Jen, Mimi and Tisha

23/12/2023

With all you experience throughout the holiday season, our biggest hope is you find presence amongst the presents, and experience warmth, wonder, and joy in every moment.

❤️💚Merry Christmas, friends. We consider each and every one of you a gift.💚❤️

14/12/2023

✨ Gift yourself a literal landmark moment with a Complimentary Third Night offer from Lotte New York Palace. ✨

The landmark-designated Villard Houses serve as entrance to the hotel, and stand as one of the rare remaining mansions of the Gilded Age and Millionaire’s Row. That legacy continues to be beautifully expressed in the most modern of ways, with something to offer every type of traveler.

🎁 History buff? The hotel literally has history at its heart. Built in 1884 with interiors that continue to dazzle, historical tours of the 15,000 square-foot residence are exclusive to hotel guests.

🎁 Architecture lover? The art deco Chrysler Building and nearby Empire State Building define Midtown East’s skyline, Grand Central Station is just steps away, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral is right across the street.

🎁 Pop culture fan? The Towers served as home to Gossip Girl (xoxo), as well as backdrop to episodes of Succession, Inventing Anna, 30 Rock, and so many more….

🎁 Arts and culture a must? The Theater District, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Museum of Modern Art, Lincoln Center are all close by.

🎁 First-time visitor? Easily add in visits to Times Square, Rockefeller Plaza, Radio City Music Hall, Central Park, the Highline, and more.

🎁 Big wow factor? Ask about the Towers at Lotte New York Palace, a hotel within a hotel offering rooms and suites that elevate the glam and the views even higher.

Truly a gift that keeps on giving, the Third Night Complimentary offer is good for travel all the way through 02 Septermber 2024. And as a Partner, Lotte at New York Palace treats our clients with the best in complimentary amenities and VIP treatment.

✨ Unwrap the offer by reaching out to us today ✨

08/12/2023

✨ Happy Hanukkah to all who light a candle tonight. There's warmth + power in illumination, and we're grateful for the reminder and the glow. ✨

May we all see the light, may we all be the light. And may the best of that which connects us shine bright.

06/12/2023

✨If dream-big-December inspires a desire to go mountain gorilla trekking, take classic game drives, hike in a magical terrain, or just fully immerse in the beauty of Africa — One&Only Resorts offers a glorious route via two One&Only Rwanda properties to make that dream come true.✨

🦍 Feel at one with nature at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, a luxury resort set against the historic mountains of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. Stay in one of 21 treehouse-style lodges or suites framed by eucalyptus and rain-forest views. Savor local, seasonal cuisine and bespoke cocktails in the jungle-chic Nest Restaurant or Nest Bar. And when it’s time to explore, the resort offers a range of truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences, from drumming circles to once-in-a-lifetime gorilla encounters.

🦍 At One&Only Nyungwe House, you become attuned to the lush surroundings: a working tea plantation set on the edge of ancient rain forest in mountainous southwest Rwanda. Clusters of rustic villas house 22 rooms and suites designed to frame the stunning landscape. Extended balconies create private havens to watch wildlife. And the earthy interiors showcase local textiles and artwork, with beamed ceilings and crackling fireplaces. Expect organic, farm-to-table cuisine and highly tailored experiences, ranging from locally-inspired spa treatments to chimpanzee tracking.

And at both: Rwandans gather together to give back to local communities, with opportunities for guests to join in and take part in infrastructure, environmental, and other projects.

Also at both of these properties: the type of elevated treatment and amenities are extended to guests who book with us!!!!

✨ Dreams, they do come true: contact us today to plan this amazing trip✨

01/12/2023

Who’s ready for a Hawaiian getaway??!!

Here’s what clients had to say about their recent trip to Kona Village, the newley renovated Rosewood Resort on the Big Island:

“Amazing resort! Tranquil with all of the amenities needed for a perfect vacation. What you would expect from a Rosewood property.”

Kona Village has a storied past – one of the celebrity hideaways and legendary mai tais. Once a secluded sanctuary for the stars, the 150-thatched-roof-hale (or house) resort has been sustainably reopened to A-listers and leisurely beach-goers alike, boasting fresh Pacific Rim-to-table cuisine, décor commissioned from native artists, and spa treatments that usher you into a regenerative state of mental, physical, and spiritual harmony. Don’t miss the 3 p.m. coconut cart delivering refreshing drinks poolside.

Insider Tip:

Pull up a seat at Shipwreck Bar, the once-sunken sailboat lovingly salvaged from the depths of Kahuwai Bay, now a chic beachside destination for light bites and creatively-named cocktails.

Virtuoso travelers receive:
For 2023:

* Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
* Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom (already included in hotel rates)
* $100USD Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
* Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
* Complimentary Wi-Fi

What are you waiting for??!!! Call us today to book this incredible property! 🌴🥥🍹😎

28/11/2023

✨Let’s dream big into the new year, shall we? ✨

Nestled on a clifftop of Ibiza’s West Coast, 7Pines Resort Ibiza is thrilled to offer brand new Grand Villas within its laid-back luxury world, featuring infinite views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Consider a Spring or Summer, family or friends getaway — enjoying the intimacy of a four-bedroom villa complete with spacious gardens and two pools. And yes, that includes access to 7Pines Resort’s 5 star facilities including Spa & Wellness, three restaurants, two yachts, and two additional resort pools.

The benefits of booking a Grand Villa at 7Pines Ibiza include:

💙 A generous 4 bedrooms, 4 bath space for your gathering
💙 Whirlpool fitting 8 adults, and an upper terrace infinity pool
💙 Complimentary transfer from and to Ibiza International airport for up to 8 guests.
💙 Personalised welcome and amenities
💙 An on-call, dedicated member of the “Clefs d’or”Concierge service providing support during your entire stay
💙 Complimentary 30-minute massage therapy
💙 A complimentary wellness group class at Pure Seven spa, followed by access to the spa pools
💙 10% discount on 7Pines Yachting Services and charters with complimentary on-board amenities.
💙 Unlimited water and soft drinks included
💙 Complimentary ccess to family-friendly facilities, the Kio House of Kids and Laguna Pool

✨Book with us by December 1st and enjoy 25% off on all suites and villas. ✨

(2024 is already looking pretty grand, sî?)

22/11/2023

Easier said than done at times, we know. Especially during these busy, busier, busiest times of year. But whether we're seasoned or seasonal travelers, no matter how short or long the journey, we know everything is made all the better by packing the determination to focus on that for which we're grateful.

We're here with you, we're here for you, and above all -- we're giving thanks for you, too. Happy Thanksgiving!

15/11/2023

Looking for a Napa alternative? Los Olivos, off the Central Coast in California, is a must! Tisha stayed last month and fell in love with this darling town and the Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, an Auberge property and a Departure Lounge VIP partner!! With over 30 tasting rooms within walking distance of the hotel and amazing nearby vineyards, any wine lover needs to get this on their list right away! Plus, this hotel is beyond fabulous!!!!!

History runs deep at the Inn at Mattei’s Tavern. This former stagecoach stop and prohibition-era refuge has been luxuriously updated, yet maintains its century-old charm. Stay in one of the original cottages featuring distinctive details like exposed wooden beams and restored wainscoting, or opt for a new guesthouse room designed to complement the Inn’s classic aesthetic. Don’t miss the elevated, but unfussy ranch-inspired dishes at the Tavern, sourced straight from the hotel’s garden and surrounding Santa Ynez Valley farms.

Booking with us you will receive the following VIP and Virtuoso amenities:

* Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
* Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, available in The Tavern and Felix Feed & Coffee (value of up to $90 per bedroom, excludes alcohol)
* $100 USD Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
* Early check-in / Late check-out, subject to availability
* Complimentary Wi-Fi
* Welcome amenity featuring local offering

We’ve had two couples stay since and both LOVED it too!!! Call us when you are ready to go! 🍷🍇☀️

09/11/2023

Japan on your mind? Just back from a whirlwind 10 day trip through the beautiful country of Japan. The contemporary architecture, art, 3-D billboards, markets, mixed with history, shrines and temples, age old traditions, makes Japan a magical destination.

Let us help you get there!

27/10/2023

Yes you can still escape to St. Barts / St. Barth* for the holidays. 🙌

While availability is limited, Partner Hôtel Le Toiny St Barth is delighted to invite a few additional guests for both Christmas and New Year’s Eve. 🎄🎆

Designed for the most barefoot-luxury take on festive, you’ll stay in one of the 22 unique, self-standing, one or two bedroom suites. Each one offering a private pool and large terrace that overlooks the deep blue sparkle of Toiny Bay.

The beach club and restaurants offer exclusive service for on-property guests, and at least one has mentioned how much their own kids proclaimed the offerings as their favorite on the island.

Of course, to add to the holiday spirit and receive the most elevated of treatment and amenities, reach out to us so we can work our own kind of magic -- we’ve got a direct line to a sun-kissed Santa who is just waiting to make your getaway dreams come true.🌞🎅 🌞

*and when you go to St. Barts / St. Barth, you can decide what to call the island. American or French, visitor or resident, the vibe of the island and your experience will put you in a “does it really matter?!” state of mind.

10/10/2023

01/10/2023

Consider this both an out-of-office and a brace-yourself-for-the-onslaught of content that will be coming your way from the our annual meeting, the . Because it's a big one. We're celebrating TEN years of orchestrating the world's best travel experiences with a team of the tippity-top of top luxury travel advisors. 🧡

Advisors from all over the globe are on their way to Partner Conrad Punta de Mita, gracious host of this year's exchange. 🧡 Joining us as sponsors and attendees: dozens of our VIP and Preferred Partners. The team is also exploring other nearby properties in the Riviera Nayarit, so if you've got your eye on the region -- now's the time to tune in and reach out ([email protected], if you're not yet connected with a )

🇲🇽 Not familiar with the Riviera Nayarit? Oooooh, you're in for a treat. 🇲🇽

Known for its surfing beaches, this coastal region is considered the birthplace of Aztec civilization. 🌟 Situated between the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Nayarit isn’t well-known to foreign tourists -- even though it's only about 45 minutes away from the more familiar Puerto Vallarta. 🌊

The vibe is distinctly relaxed and you won't need to compete for space on the beach. And while being less crowded is undoubtedly a perk -- the real appeal of Nayarit is the range of activities for every type of traveler. Guests love the gorgeous beaches, rich culture, and plentiful activities. 🧡 (And we love the luxury hotels serving as a home office for the week!)

So join us in a celebratory ¡Salud! as we raise a glass to you, to our team, to our partners, and to the shared passion that brings us all together -- travel in a way that elevates and inspires. 🧡 ¡Vamonos! 💃🕺

09/09/2023

01/09/2023

Bodrum: On the shores of the Adriatic, this bustling seaside town may remind you of a place you’ve already been, but it’s uniquely Turkish: Spend the day at a beach club or dive into the turquoise blue water from a chartered boat, sip a glass of raki with a fresh catch, chat with locals, and watch the sunset form Bodrum castle.

We couldn’t have asked for a more seemlessly planned trip including airport transfers, guides, hotels, and more.

Mimi, Tisha, Jen — where are we going next?

Four parts (4/4)

01/09/2023

Ephesus: Imagine life in the most well-preserved town from antiquity from walking the marble streets to touring the homes of wealthy residents to standing in front of the iconic library.

Four parts (3/4)

01/09/2023

Cappadocia: Soar over the unique landscape in a hot air balloon to see cave churches and fairy houses in a unique and magical place.

Fours part (2/4)

01/09/2023

Is Turkey on your travel bucket list? 🇹🇷

Istanbul: An easy nonstop flight from Seattle to the elegant city of Istanbul at the crossroads of the world. Explore mosques and sultan palaces while enjoying the culture with Turkish baths, Turkish coffee, and Turkish delights.

Four parts (1/4)

29/08/2023

What a crazy Summer it has been!! Although we’ve been busy with clients traveling all over the world, we took some time to do some exploring of our own in the Sourheast!

Last month we had the opportunity to visit Charleston, S.C. and absolutely fell in love with this charming city!

We stayed at the gorgeous The Charleston Place hotel! The club level (where we stayed) has private access, dedicated staff, and all day food and beverage service! Rooms are spacious and very comfortable. Location is perfect in the downtown historic district! The hotel is within walking distance to everything! There is also award winning restaurants on site, as well as, luxury shopping and a spa.

If you are looking for a fun and easy get away, Charleston has it all! Great food and drinks, incredible history, and, of course, tons and tons of southern charm!! Also, Alaska Airlines has a nonstop flight there!

And, as always, you’ll receive Virtuoso amenities:

- Upgrade on arrival, if available
- Daily breakfast for 2
- $100 food and beverage credit
- early check-in / late check out

Reach out when your ready to book your next trip! We’d love to help!