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“There's a strong interest in promoting the Sicilian excellencies, which are of course connected  to food and wine, but also the natural beauties that we can offer. So, even though Mount Etna is  visible from everywhere, really, it's the olive groves and the vineyards surrounding the estate that make all the difference for an experience that makes it really relaxing and exclusive.” We’re in great company with Fabio Cimenti, Operating Officer of Villa Neri Etna Resort & Spa, an extraordinary retreat nestled on the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna in the ancient hilltop village of Linguaglossa, Sicily—where a century-old family legacy of farming, winemaking, and quiet reverence for the land has blossomed into one of the island's most distinctive luxury escapes. Here, the silence is intentional, the materials are local, and every detail—from the lava stone underfoot to the Etna DOC wine in your glass—is a love letter to this remarkable corner of the earth. In the final episode of Season 9, Fabio teaches us that a sense of place isn't designed—it's inherited, tended, and passed down. Top Takeaways [1:55] From the Dolomites to the slopes of Etna—what does it take to leave a career in education behind and follow a feeling? [6:00] Greek, Roman, Arabic, Spanish, French—Sicily isn't just an island, it's a civilization layered on top of itself. [7:10] With its lava stone houses and a cuisine fed by volcanic soil—Linguaglossa is not the seaside Sicily you imagined. [11:00] A tenor's voice built the fortune. A brother's grief brought it home to Sicily. And four generations later, those first vines are now a five-star estate. [13:50] At Villa Neri, the roots aren't just a story—they're sitting in the hallway for guests to encounter.  [16:35] Breakfast facing a volcano, lunch in the vineyards, dinner under a Sicilian sunset—Fabio's ideal day at Villa Neri is not a hard sell. [21:35] From marble floors, lava stone walls and a local sculptor's permanent collection to suite wine cellars and lodge spas facing the volcano—Villa Neri has thought carefully about what it means to wake up on these slopes. [27:15] Chef Elia Russo's memories menu at 12 Fontane is a journey through Sicily—from the volcanic highlands to the coastline—told through ingredients that have never left the island. [29:10] At Petra Spa, even the treatments are sourced from the land—because Villa Neri believes a guest should feel Sicily in every sense. [31:10] Casa Arrigo is where it all began—the original land, the first vines, the first olive press—and a minute's walk from Villa Neri, it's still where the best stories are told. Notable Mentions White Lotus Season 2 at San Domenico Palace in Taormina, Sicily  Dolce & Gabbana Artist Salvatore Incorpora Sicilian desserts, cassata cakes & cannoli  Neri Etna Rosato DOC made of 100% Nerello Mascalese Ferragosto in August Neri Agricola Shop Visit For Yourself Villa Neri Website | Neri Etna Website | @villaneri

“We should be an experience for guests to experiment with Portuguese products, Portuguese brands, and this means the coffee, the toilet paper, the wines, the amenities. This creates a kind of conversation and it's also storytelling for them to take home.” We’re in great company with Sofia Brandão, Managing Director of AlmaLusa Hotels, a boutique collection of three soulful properties rooted in the heart of Portugal—from the grand historic squares of Lisbon's Baixa, to the ancient cobblestoned alleys of Alfama, to the sun-bleached tranquility of Comporta's coast. Here, they have reimagined what it means to truly meet a place—not just stay in it—through heritage, Portuguese soul, and the warmth of genuine hospitality. In this episode, Sofia reflects on ten years of building AlmaLusa with patience, purpose, and intention—reminding us that the most memorable stays are never about the room, but always about how a place makes you feel. Top Takeaways [1:55] Sofia didn't set out to run hotels—she set out to see the world, and somewhere along the way, the world checked her in. [9:10] The Portuguese have always had history, food, and soul worth sharing with the world—and have spent centuries being far too humble to insist upon it. [12:20] A decade in, AlmaLusa's quiet rule for growth has never changed—the right location, real heritage, and a neighborhood worth genuinely sharing with guests. [15:40] After 25 years in Lisbon, Sofia is still getting lost in it—and she wouldn't have it any other way. [18:15] Three properties, three entirely different heartbeats—from the vibrant historic square of Baixa Chiado to the poetic evening streets of Alfama to the unhurried, sun-stretched days of Comporta. [21:15] At AlmaLusa, the history isn't hanging on the walls—in many cases, it is the walls. [24:05] AlmaLusa has a simple vision—every product a guest touches should be Portuguese, and every one of those products should have something worth saying. [26:20] In Portugal, the next meal is already being planned before the current one is over—and at AlmaLusa's restaurants, that spirit of gathering around the table is baked into every honest, ingredient-led dish. [29:20] Alma means soul in Portuguese—and at AlmaLusa, that isn't a brand promise, it's the operating principle behind every greeting and every turndown note. [34:10] Portugal will always be a small country—and Sofia believes that's exactly what makes it one of the most quietly extraordinary destinations in the world. Notable Mentions Six Sense Douro Valley Pastel de Nata, Portuguese egg custard tart Vinho Verde  Visit For Yourself AlmaLusa Hotels Website | @almalusahotels | @almalusacomporta | @delfinarestaurants % off with code FRIEND at checkout

“ I think that if travelers choose well where they go, they will always find rooted experiences and really personal experiences, because most of the wine world is like that. Wine is all about people, family, and stories. There's so much diversity with local producers. It's amazing because I promote many of my colleagues—I go to their places, they come to mine, I send my guests, I pick their wines for my wine list—and everyone has a story to tell.” We’re in great company with Ana Lovaglio Balbo, Co-Founder of Susana Balbo Unique Stays, and the daughter of one of Argentina's most iconic winemaking legends—who has woven her family's four decades of passion for wine, art, and terroir into Susana Balbo Winemaker's House & Spa Suites—a hidden oasis in the vineyards of Mendoza, where luxury hospitality and winemaking heritage are inseparable. From the vine to the suite, Ana has spent her career turning a winemaking legacy into a living, breathing hospitality experience—and she's only just getting started. As Ana uncorks the story behind her family's remarkable journey, this conversation is a reminder that the most memorable hospitality is never about the accolades—it's about the people, the place, and the passion behind every pour. Top Takeaways [2:10] Growing up between the vineyard rows and the wine cellar, Ana's childhood was shaped not just by the land—but by the world that came to visit them. [5:45] Hospitality came naturally to Ana—but it started, as so many good things do, with nourishing food and a table set for strangers. [8:50] What does it look like when you lock down two visionary women with too much energy and not enough to do—and what happens to a city when they finally open the doors? [14:45] Ana doesn't want you to feel at home — she wants you to feel like a welcomed guest in hers, guided through Mendoza by a local friend you didn't know you needed. [17:30] A black door. A hidden garden. And the faint feeling that you've somehow slipped out of the world entirely—without ever leaving the city. [20:45] Seven suites. Seven elements. One vine-rooted symbol—“el Árbol de la Vida”—where “vid”, the Spanish word for vine, breathes life into every corner of the experience, and quietly invites every guest to reflect on their own story while immersed in Ana’s. [24:25] For Ana, two MICHELIN Keys, membership in Relais & Châteaux and the Virtuoso network, and a Silver Eco Label for sustainability were never the goal—they were simply what happens when you stop chasing accolades and start chasing excellence. [27:50] At La Vida, expect to have your assumptions about Argentina gently, elegantly overturned — one white wine pairing at a time. [31:30] From winemaking legends to the next generation of female talent, Ana's Winemaking Expeditions are a window into an Argentina most travelers never get to see. [35:35] From concrete egg barrel bathtubs to grape seed scrubs, wellness at SB Winemaker's House & Spa Suites is less a spa menu and more a love letter to the vine. [38:20] Waking up inside a high-altitude vineyard, face to face with the Andes—the Mountain Lodge in Valle de Uco is Ana's next chapter, and it's only just beginning. Notable Mentions Osadía de Crear & Espacio Crios “Tila” herbal tea made from lime tree blossoms  Susana Balbo Limited Edition Blanco de Gualtallary “ Medialunas” Argentinian croissant Visit For Yourself Susana Balbo Unique Stays Website | @susanabalbouniquestays Susana Balbo Wines Website | @susanabalbowines

“Right now, I still use the same methods, the type of grapes, as my great-grandparents. The only thing that has changed is that now I am responsible for the Aceto Balsamico and my father has always trusted me to carry on in this tradition. Because for us, the balsamic vinegar is your family history in a bottle.” We’re in great company with Mattia Montanari, the dedicated and determined founder and CEO of Opera|02, a certified organic winery, traditional vinegar cellar, and tastefully designed resort woven into the rolling hills of Modena’s vineyard landscape—where 3 generations of balsamic vinegar mastery meet contemporary hospitality, inviting guests to reconnect with the craft, culture, and terroir of Emilia-Romagna. Mattia shares how growing up sneaking tastes of balsamic juice and getting his hands dirty in the family harvest shaped his vision to create an immersive experience where travelers could taste, sleep, and live inside his family's legacy.  In this episode, Mattia reveals that true innovation happens not by abandoning tradition, but by creating new ways for others to understand and appreciate it. Top Takeaways [2:00] Growing up in Modena, Mattia learned that craft creates connection—a lesson that would later inspire him to invite the world into his family's three-generation story. [4:35] After traveling through the vineyards of Tuscany, Piedmont, and Napa Valley, Mattia envisioned bringing that same immersive wine-country hospitality back to Modena—but centered entirely around the time-honored craft and storytelling of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar. [5:45] At Opera|02, Mattia honors his family's wisdom by preserving the exact recipes and processes his great-grandmother began—proving that tradition and innovation aren't opposing forces, but rather two sides of the same story. [8:00] Leaving the roar of Motor Valley's Ferraris and Maseratis behind, guests wind up into the vineyard-lined hills to discover Opera|02—where the noise fades into silence, and the only thing that changes with each season is the view from your terrace. [9:50] From sunrise in the vineyards to sunset in the acetaia, a day at Opera|02 is an invitation to taste, touch, and witness the slow alchemy that turns grapes into legacy. [11:05] Each of the eight suites is a love letter to the land—named Grappa, Nocino, Prugna, Aceto, Saba, Duroni, Vino, Miele—where the colors and textures of each room mirror the very products that made Mattia’s family name. [13:40] In the acetaia, each family member has their own barrel aging in the darkness—a tangible thread connecting Mattia to his brother, his parents, his grandparents—a tradition that asks, what legacy are you building that will outlive you? [14:55] At the Bistrot, every plate holds seasonal ingredients within zero kilometers and is touched by aged balsamic—telling you exactly who Mattia's family is and what this corner of Emilia tastes like. [16:30] Opera|02 invites guests into vineyard picnics with baskets of local cheese and bread, intimate dinners among three hundred barrels of aging balsamic, wine tastings that change with the seasons, and Lambrusco served in a can—proving that tradition doesn't mean stuffy. Visit For YourselfOpera|02 Website | Shop Opera|02 | @opera02resort

“Because the truth is, there's a lot of magical hotels out there. But what makes something truly unique is the location in which it is, because our hotels aren't buildings that were built. They are beautiful essences, that were renovated with love and were kept the same. They were just polished. Nothing from our hotels was changed.” We’re in great company with Marialuisa D'Angelo, the Managing Director of The D'Angelo Family Collection, a thoughtfully curated portfolio of intimate boutique hotels and organic vineyards, woven across three of Italy's most evocative regions—Lecce, Matera, and Lake Como.  Alongside her parents, Marialuisa has rebuilt these rare sanctuaries with unwavering intention—spaces where local artisans and farms shape every sensory detail, where silence is luxury, and where the art of slowing down, “il dolce far niente,” feels like coming home.  In this episode, Marialuisa shares how a childhood spent moving between eight countries taught her that stories are humanity's shared currency, and how that belief now shapes every meal, every room, every moment at her family's collection. Top Takeaways [2:00] Born in Southern Italy but raised across eight countries, Marialuisa developed a profound love of storytelling and realized the power of human connection from an early age.  [5:10] Her parents' return to Italy was rooted in gratitude—a desire to give back to the country that shaped them. Marialuisa's path, however, was her own—a desire to return to the family business where she could tell stories that mattered. [10:20] It started in Matera, her father's hometown, with a neglected palazzo. Success there sparked Villa Mojana on Lake Como, then Palazzo Zimara in Lecce—three intimate sanctuaries born from opportunity and deep regional roots. [12:25] In a world where constant connection breeds disconnection, The D’Angelo Family Collection are sanctuaries designed to pause that cycle—where each space invites guests to simply be present. [16:00] Three distinct landscapes, one philosophy—Lecce's baroque streets and limestone walls echo Florence's grandeur, Lake Como offers Alpine silence surrounded by green, Matera's neolithic caves whisper ancient history. Each property is lovingly restored—never reinvented—preserving the essence of places where culture and agriculture intertwine. [18:40] Guided by her mother’s architectural motto "less is more"—guests feel home away from home, surrounded by the authentic essence of the place from the strategic lighting to the local artisans, and regional services. [22:55] Menus shift monthly with the seasons, sourced in a true kilometer zero philosophy. Open kitchens invite chefs to share stories of local producers directly with guests, while communal tables turn strangers into friends and meals into memories. [28:10] The D’Angelo Family’s organic wines anchor every property through tastings, wine baths, pairing menus, and workshops. Each sip connects guests to volcanic terroir and the belief that true hospitality is about meaningful experience, not just consumption. [32:10] In a generation creating memories through screens, Marialuisa hopes to instill the magic of authenticity, identity, and real connection—believing family businesses leave the most meaningful footprints on earth. Notable Mentions The Sassi of Matera, UNESCO World Heritage Site Arcidiaconata, Organic Aglianico del Vulture D.O.C. Cuccù from Matera Limonta on Lake Como Visit For Yourself The D’Angelo Family Collection Website | @thedangelofamilycollection Palazzo Zimara | @palazzozimara | @labocca_restaurant_ Villa Mojana di Limonta | @villa_mojana_bellagio Il Palazzotto | @ilpalazzottomatera  Radino Wine Bistrot | Francesco Radino Wine | @radinowine 10% off when you email directly with code SIGC25

"Of course we're gonna have a menu that's constantly changing, we're following nature. And your ingredients when they're at their peak, your dish is gonna be at its peak. So why put something on a menu that maybe is out of season already two months ago. And that also challenges us to think outside the box, to be creative, which is something that we're taking back from Noma because the creativity there goes beyond what you may imagine.” We’re in great company with Samantha Lamanna and Luca Invernizzi, the chefs and visionaries behind Tenuta Lamanna, who spent four formative years at Noma in Copenhagen before stepping away to pursue their own hospitality dream.  Now they are cultivating a soon-to-be agriturismo and restaurant nestled in the Tuscan countryside between mountains and sea, where rolling vineyards meet olive groves and family values take root. Here, they are building not just a place to stay and dine, but a deliberate return to what matters most—land, community, and the art of slowing down. In this episode, Samantha and Luca invite us into their formative first year of learning to let the land lead, building a restaurant rooted in seasonality and creativity, and discovering that the greatest plans are the ones flexible enough to change with the seasons. Top Takeaways [2:25] Two different childhoods on opposite sides of the world, yet both shaped by family kitchens and the belief that food is where it all begins. [5:10] At Noma, one of the world's most competitive and intentional kitchens, Samantha and Luca discovered a partnership that grew with the seasons—a foundation that would carry them through everything ahead. [12:15] A family dream deferred by life's twists and turns for many years became a reality overnight when they least expected it.  [19:10] From minute-by-minute timelines in the Noma kitchen to learning that a farm moves even while you sleep—Samantha and Luca are discovering that the greatest lesson is not planning, it is listening to what nature asks of you each day. [25:10] What you see and hear as a guest will shift with the seasons—olive harvests, winter hibernation, budding vines. But you are guaranteed one constant—integration into the daily rhythm of a working farm. [29:25] Apartments with kitchens to cook on your own, a restaurant for shared meals, harvest seasons that welcome anyone willing to learn and teach—Tenuta Lamanna is building a place where you can escape the city, pass through, or stay rooted in community. [32:40]  For Samantha and Luca, seasonality will dictate the menu, hyper-local ingredients will take center stage, and Noma's creative philosophy will continue to guide them. But do not expect Italian food—expect something born from their hands, their curiosity, and the land itself. [37:30] Six family members, six different minds, each with their own expertise—wine tastings, olive oil courses, cooking classes, harvest experiences—all designed so guests can savor memories and carry a taste of Tenuta Lamanna home. [40:15] Medieval piazzas, crystal lakes, mountain bike trails, farmers markets alive with passion—Samantha and Luca have become tourists in their own backyard, eager to share what they're discovering. [45:15] At Tenuta Lamanna sustainability is not just philosophy, it is practice—nothing wasted because everything comes full circle, from kitchen to animals to land and back again. Notable Mentions Noma in Copenhagen, DK Massa Marittima Follonica Lago dell'Accesa South Italian Sugo North Italian Polenta Taragna Visit For Yourself @tenutalamanna | @samantharosella | @lucaainve

“They make their own wine or olive oil. They have fruit trees. They are so willing to share, to make you taste, to invite you for lunch and dinner, to teach you something. It's a very generous, open approach that was very new for me. It should be normal and obvious, but it's not. It's no longer like this in big cities.” We’re in great company with Giorgia Goggi, the Head Chef of Masseria Moroseta—who along with her friends turned family, became the stewards behind this modern farmhouse in Ostuni. Here they have curated an elegant but familiar environment, a place created for those seeking a peaceful atmosphere between nature, good food, design and beauty.  A white stone house standing proudly on a ridge overlooking the Adriatic Sea, surrounded by five hectares of organic olive groves, Masseria Moroseta embodies the essence of Puglia—a unique land, a clear sky, warm scents and simple flavors distilled into every detail. In this episode, Giorgia shares how slowing down to the rhythm of seasons, trusting ingredient-driven creativity, and gathering around a table with strangers who become friends, reminds us why we fell in love with cooking, travel, and community in the first place. Top Takeaways [1:55] From childhood family meals to professional calling, Giorgia transformed her greatest passion into her life's work—finally finding the creative freedom to make her voice heard. [5:00] In Puglia, Giorgia discovered what she didn't know was missing—a landscape where centuries-old olive trees, generous neighbors, and ingredients alive with flavor make creativity not just possible, but inevitable. [10:10] Carlo Lanzini envisioned Masseria Moroseta as a classical Puglian farmhouse—a simple, purposeful design born from agriculture where every space served the land—then reimagined it for today with reverence for tradition and place. [11:35] A day in the life of a Head Chef shifts with the seasons—winter's quietude, spring's renewal, summer's full energy—a rhythm that honors both the land's cycles and the creative space needed to truly innovate. [15:35] With only six rooms and intentionally unscheduled days, guests naturally surrender their itineraries to discover what matters most—a leisurely breakfast, a nap in the afternoon sun, wine at sunset—the very rhythm that defines the Moroseta lifestyle. [22:15] Each Puglian ingredient holds infinite possibilities ensuring Giorgia's work is never finished, always evolving. [25:35] Through workshops, Giorgia steps away from behind the counter to sit as an equal among friends—rediscovering the joy that first drew her to cooking, while guests transform from strangers into a community bound by shared meals and stories. [29:30] Rather than expanding rooms, Moroseta expanded possibilities—holiday villas for friends, boat tours along the Adriatic, restaurant collaborations—each experience another lens through which guests discover the richness of Puglia, always rooted in the same care and intention. Notable Mentions Studio Andrew Trotter Tortellini en Brodo Nocino Liqueur  Visit For Yourself Masseria Moroseta Website | @masseriamoroseta @morosetakitchen | @moroseta_homes | @moroseta_boats

“Everything got quiet and all that noise went away. And I remember being like, ‘Hang on to this, Anna, because you're so clear in this is what the plan is. Don't let the world's noise steal that from you.’ So it's been there in the back of my head while we've been pulling the hotels out of the sinking sand. When we're ready, we're gonna pivot and this is gonna be a place for healing.” We're in great company with Anna Campbell, a passionate conservationist and wellness advocate who has transformed her late mother's vision into one of Kenya's most enchanting boutique hotel experiences, Mukima Manor—a sanctuary for wildlife and wellness—in one of the country's most breathtaking safari regions.  Anna shares how she's stewarding this century-old manor and accompanying 300 acres of rewilded land as both a love letter to her mother's legacy and a haven where guests can slow down, reconnect, and restore. In this New Year's episode, we explore what it means to set intentions not through resolutions but through presence—grounding ourselves in nature's rhythms, opening up to strangers who become companions in adventure, and remembering that true wellness lives at the intersection of wild exploration and quiet healing. Top Takeaways [1:55] Anna's Kenyan childhood was beautifully untamed. Listen as she shares stories that instilled an innate respect for the land, a joy in recognizing that less truly is more. [4:25] Remembering Anna’s mother Leslie as a force of nature—brave, creative, and surefooted in ways that seemed almost effortless, taking risks that others might have called bonkers. [7:30] With such optimism and pride, Anna speaks of her mother and husband—honoring Leslie's creative legacy while relying on Shawn's unwavering strength, the kind of partnership that turns what could have been insurmountable challenges into a love letter to both past and future. [15:35] The profound experience of caring for her mother sparked Anna's passion for health and wellness—turning heartbreak into healing by creating a sanctuary where others can restore themselves. [19:25] Mukima Manor's mornings arrive with birdsong, cool mountain air, the crackle of leaves underfoot, and mist rising off the lake—a sensory wake-up call that reminds you why this rewilded sanctuary feels so alive. [23:30] Living sustainably isn't a compromise, it's an alignment—a quiet luxury where guests consume only what's clean and kind, from chemical-free shampoos to carrots pulled straight from the garden, because wellness begins at the source. [26:30]  Mukima Manor's adventures are yours to choose, tailored so no two days (or family members) need follow the same path. [30:00] Wellness isn't just clean eating and meditation, it's beautifully multifaceted—which is exactly what Anna's upcoming retreats at Mukima Manor aim to celebrate.  [33:05] For those craving both beach and bush, Anna offers the best of Kenya—intimate hospitality that feels like staying with your most adventurous friend who knows all the hidden gems.  Visit For Yourself Mukima Manor Website | @mukimamanorhouse The Cabanas Lamu Website | @thecabanaslamu

“The idea behind Arctic Bath was born at Treehotel. And I think this is also an important part of the story. How new crazy things inspire other crazy people to do crazy things that nobody says is possible. We are not competing with each other, we are completing each other—working together and bringing people to each other. That's the way that we work with tourism in this area.” We're in great company with Maarten Raes and Peter Engström, two of the original visionary partners behind Arctic Bath, a one-of-a-kind hotel, spa, and restaurant floating on the serene Lule River in Swedish Lapland, where frost-covered forests transform with the seasons and the Northern Lights dance above the Arctic landscape.  Here, they have reimagined what luxury means—not through excess, but through authenticity, nature, and slow travel. What makes Arctic Bath so extraordinary is the quiet conviction behind it—the grit it took to build something real, a team committed to genuine hospitality, and a philosophy that proves luxury is found in connection, not consumption. In this winter episode, we discover how slowing down in the Arctic teaches us what truly matters—and why some of the most meaningful travel experiences happen when we stop rushing and start listening. Top Takeaways [9:50] The story behind Arctic Bath's iconic circular main building meant to mimic timber logs jamming in rapids—and how architect Bertil Harström designed it as a visual tribute to the Lule River's legacy. [15:20] Amidst construction delays, a pandemic six weeks after opening, and countless late nights fixing things behind the scenes, Peter quietly delivered a serene sanctuary for their first season of worldly guests. [19:10] The Michelin Key arrived not for the rooms, the architecture, or the food alone—but for the intangible thing guests keep trying to describe—the genuine warmth of a team that chose to create something real. [21:45] Three ways to experience Arctic Bath: Land and Suite cabins offer spacious luxury, while floating Water rooms let you swim from your bed in summer and listen to the ice sing beneath you in winter. [24:45] The sauna and cold plunge ritual—rooted in centuries of Nordic living—transforms guests and locals alike, awakening something so natural that no manufactured wellness experience at home can replicate. [27:10] Each plate at Arctic Bath tells a story—of the river, the forest, the northern lights—translating the landscape into something guests can taste compliments of the relationships with local fishermen, farmers, and herders.  [29:40] A winter day unfolds: dogsledding or snowshoe hiking with locals, Sámi stories shared around an open fire, a luxurious Swedish spa experience—and if you're fortunate, the Northern Lights dancing above in the endless night sky. [32:45] Arctic Bath's sustainability runs deeper than awards—it's woven into every choice, a commitment to nurturing the small businesses and community that make this place possible. Notable Mentions Nordic Collection Treehotel in Swedish Lapland Visit For Yourself Arctic Bath Website | @arcticbath_sweden

“ Beaumier is a story that began truly 10 years ago if we go back to the beginning of the portfolio. But this story of implementing soulful luxury properties and beautiful environments, really rooted in the local culture—it's less than five years old. We're a very young brand, I would say.” We're in great company with Anna Fedou, Brand & Marketing Director of Beaumier Hotels, a curated collection of ten soulful luxury properties woven across Europe's most enchanting landscapes—from Provence and the Riviera to the Alpine peaks and Ibiza.  Beaumier is built on a philosophy of "the art of living differently"—a belief that true hospitality begins not with grand gestures, but with listening—to the landscape, to the people who call it home, to the history woven into its walls. Rather than imposing a predetermined style, each property emerges as an act of discovery, honoring its surroundings while breathing new life into them with the spirit of a curious explorer and the care of a devoted steward. In this winter episode, Anna shares how her own multicultural upbringing—shaped by movement between cultures and meaningful family moments—informs Beaumier's approach to creating spaces where guests feel genuinely at home, offering us timely lessons in slowing down, belonging, and the kind of intentional living we all crave as the holidays approach. Top Takeaways [1:50] How Anna's childhood spent traveling between France, Portugal, Spain, and London—punctuated by magical family holidays discovering the world together—became the compass that would eventually guide her career in creating meaningful, connected experiences for others. [6:40] What began as a small collection of Alpine ski hotels transformed into a spirit of adventure named Beaumier—seeking out hidden architectural treasures and breathing new life into them with intention and reverence. [19:40] At Beaumier, guests reconnect with nature and themselves through thoughtfully curated spaces where design, storytelling, and “happy accidents” become conversation starters that spark joy regardless of cultural background.  [24:15] Winter Properties: L'Alpaga in Megève, Les 3 Vallées in Courchevel, Le Val Thorens and Le Fitz Roy in Val Thorens—all provide distinctive perspectives and experiences of the French Alps—while the Grand Hotel Belvedere in Wengen is a historic hideaway in the Swiss Alps. [26:00] Summer Properties: Capelongue, Le Moulin and Le Galinier  show different sides of Provence—while Les Roches Rouges sits peacefully overlooking the Côte d'Azur, and Petunia dispels the myth of Ibiza. [30:55] What ties together ten distinct properties across Europe isn't a playbook—it's a commitment to locally sourced cuisine, genuine human connection, and a deeply personal approach to wellbeing that honors what each guest truly needs to feel whole. [35:50] A first glimpse into Wengen's revival through Grand Hotel Belvedere—a revitalized property breathing new life into a sleeping beauty destination that's been beautifully unchanged for decades, inspiring the entire community to awaken alongside it. Visit For Yourself Beaumier Website | @beaumierhotels  Bon Voyage by Beaumier

“Generally you have to choose one and drive to the other. You have to choose either a rural setting or an area that has all these services with it—you walk to the schools, the hospitality, the shops, the medical services. And so one of the key things is it's all here—you just decide which door you're gonna go out.” We’re in great company with Steve Nygren, the visionary behind, and steward of Serenbe, an award winning biophilic community on the edge of Atlanta that connects its residents and guests to nature and each other. A place where fresh air, fresh food, and fresh ideas flourish.  Whether you come for a weekend escape at The Inn at Serenbe or envision making it home for a lifetime, this community offers a living model of how we can reconnect with what matters most. In this Thanksgiving episode, Steve reminds us that if we want to change the world, we can start in our own backyards—sharing how his family's dedication to protecting their land has blossomed into a movement inspiring communities around the globe to live in harmony with nature. Top Takeaways [1:45] Listen as Steve’s story comes full circle, from farm roots through urban hospitality ownership, ultimately back to the land where he planned to raise his family—only to discover it was threatened by urban sprawl and desperately in need of a creative solution. [4:30] “ The effort was to not convince one side to come over to the other, but rather find a solution where each group could get more, that we could get a higher value for the land than they had ever thought they could, and to preserve more of it than we ever thought possible.”  [11:10] With English countryside villages and European hamlets as his blueprint, Steve built Serenbe on four essential components—art for inspiration, agriculture for nourishment, health and wellness for vitality, and education for growth. [15:10]  Across 2,000 acres of biophilic community design, Serenbe's miles of nature trails weave together homes, restaurants, and arts businesses while immersing visitors in rich sensory experiences around every corner.  [20:30] At The Inn at Serenbe, guests can experience community life firsthand through a selection of rooms and cottages that offer both modern luxury and authentic connection to the land, complete with farm-to-table dining and access to all of Serenbe's wellness amenities. [22:30] Guests can dine and drink in good company across Serenbe's spectrum of culinary offerings—from refined seasonal menus to casual bites around the community—with every dish celebrating locally sourced ingredients grown under the nurturing care of neighbors.  [25:25] Serenbe's amenities and activities celebrate both relaxation and exploration, offering everything from rejuvenating yoga classes to horseback riding adventures, and charming community experiences like feeding farm animals and listening to live music. [28:50] At its core, biophilic design embraces living in harmony with nature as a community to achieve well-being, sustainability and prosperity, creating spaces where this principle can flourish for individuals, the places we live, and the world around us. [30:10] Serenbe's future embraces a vision of "free range kids" and elders living in harmony together, applying Blue Zone principles to create a lifestyle that values longevity, community, and the richness of multigenerational living. Notable Mentions Last Child In The Woods by Richard Louv Atlanta Beltline New York City High Line Start In Your Own Backyard by Steve Nygren Visit For Yourself Serenbe Website | @serenbe Steve Nygren Website

“ It has to mean something to you in order for it to mean something to anybody else. And that's all we're dealing with really. We're giving people the most authentic version of what we see as hospitality that we can give.  For us it's a very simple equation of giving what we really would like to receive.” We’re in great company with Gem Boner and Thom Scherdel, the tastemakers behind Restaries, a collection of contemporary accommodations and event spaces located on the border of Suffolk and Norfolk, where epic woodlands meet serene sea fronts. Here, they have curated not just a place to stay, but a deliberate pause from the ordinary grind.  Set on the grounds of a 16th-century Suffolk farm with a rich history spanning cider production to New World Music distribution, Paradise Farm has always been about creating experiences that bring people together. In this episode, Gem and Thom discuss how they've learned that luxury comes not from ostentation but from time, connection, and the simple art of making every guest feel genuinely welcomed home. Top Takeaways [1:50] After years of telling other brands' stories—from Topshop showrooms to Soho House events—Gem and Thom discovered that their greatest collaboration would be both personal and professional—creating the hospitality experience they'd always wished existed. [9:10] From bubbling cider production to spinning vinyl records, Paradise Farm has always been about creating experiences that bring people together—a legacy Gem and Thom honor as they write their own chapter in this 500-year story of craft, culture, and community. [16:05] Perfectly positioned among Suffolk's coastal heritage, rolling farmland, and vibrant independent towns, Paradise Farm's 10 secluded acres offer everything from tree-lined tranquility to quick beach escapes and the kind of brilliant stargazing that inspired their very name.  [20:50] Each accommodation honors its original purpose while embracing “Mother Nature's color palette,” championing sustainable brands and local ceramicists whose stories are shared through Restaries’ Rest & Read series. [25:20] “We adapt the land to cater for every need"—from romantic proposal setups in candlelit spaces to pizza-making in lush gardens, from woodland cocktails classes to communal dining experiences—Gem and Thom create the art of play and discovery through genuine hospitality. [29:15] Restaries’ "marketing team" of Pedigree Pygmy goats, Valais Blacknose sheep, and Kune Kune pigs offer guests real things and real feelings—from naughty goats greeting arrivals to calm alpacas that respond to chilled energy. [33:00] Kitchen garden beginnings meet seasoned culinary takeovers and locally acclaimed producers—as Restaries becomes the home for London chefs looking to escape the city to craft woodland dining experiences with seasonal Suffolk produce. Notable Mentions Design & That interior design Colors of Arley fabrics Pophams ceramics Verden scents Somerset Grill Chef @WasteNotRowen  Fen Farm Dairy  Flint Vineyard The Suffolk The Black Dog Deli Pinch Alde Cafe Greyhound Inn Thorpeness village The Gunton Arms Earsham Street Deli Focus Organic The Southwold Flower Company Black Lines Drinks Visit For Yourself Restaries Website | @restaries

“  So what I really want from Fowlescombe is actually that you come away feeling like you've stayed with a friend—if that friend was an amazing cook, had really beautiful guest rooms, and was a fantastic host—who'd looked after you really well and who'd really made the effort to show you around. Because actually there's nothing better than visiting a place with a friend, seeing it through their eyes and feeling like you've seen something a bit different.” We’re in great company with Caitlin Owens, the proud new owner and managing director of Fowlescombe Farm, a quietly luxurious and restorative rural retreat of just ten beautifully designed suites, nestled at the heart of a 450-acre regenerative farm, set close to the wilds of Dartmoor in Devon. Dating back to 1537, rich with ghost stories and Sherlock Holmes lore, this historic estate became the perfect canvas for Caitlin to realize her childhood dream of owning a hotel when she returned home to the English countryside ready to pave her own path.  In this episode, Caitlin takes us through her philosophy of doing luxury differently—learning from her time at Four Seasons but choosing intimacy over opulence, inviting overnight guests to participate in farm rhythms while opening her table to the local community, and pioneering regenerative hospitality that cares for land, nourishes guests, and sustains her family business. Top Takeaways [2:00] Caitlin's childhood dream of owning a hotel found its home when she returned during lockdown to rediscover the beauty of Devon’s countryside and the opportunity within her family’s farm.  [8:50] The estate, owned by the Fowle family since 1537, sits among Dartmoor's mystical landscape—rich in folklore, witchcraft history, haunting tales of ghostly hounds, and the backdrop for a Sherlock Holmes best seller. [16:20] Rather than replicate Four Seasons' luxury through choice and opulence, Caitlin built Fowlescombe around removing decisions—curating an intentional experience that feels like staying with a trusted friend who takes care of every detail. [21:20] Caitlin's favorite season brings the energy of new calves and lambs, bees buzzing through wildflowers, savory wild garlic scenting the woods, and the surprising sweetness of gorse on the moorland. [23:50] Every suite designed by creative director Paul Glade prioritizes tactile luxury—soft wool from their own flock, stone quarried on the farm, English oak, and layered fabrics that invite guests to touch and connect with the sense of place.  [27:50] From childhood books to wellies in every size, every object at Fowlescombe has a story and is chosen intentionally so guests can connect to the place and carve out their own space on the farm. [31:30] Overnight guests harvest eggs and make bread with the chefs, while local dinner guests tour the gardens before sharing the communal table—creating connections to the farm and community through food. [39:20] Caitlin envisions a future where the community of people wanting to do luxury differently grows, and the concept of regenerative practices extends beyond farming to hospitality itself. Notable Mentions The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Visit For Yourself Fowlescombe Farm Website | @fowlescombe

“  I feel like Berlin is a city where anything is possible, while never quite achieving polished glamor. And that's its charm. There is no steep hierarchy to enter the art scene, or any scene to be honest. And that is what we wanted to reflect here in Château Royal Berlin, this kind of openness and uniqueness.” We’re in great company with Kirsten Landwehr, co-founder and curator of Château Royal, an enchanting and eccentric boutique hotel in the heart of Berlin Mitte, where craftsmanship and reinterpretation have revived what was once en vogue during the city's former golden ages, now adorned with contemporary art and convivial hosts. Rooted in Berlin’s creative pulse, Kirsten and her husband, restaurateur Stephan Landwehr of Grill Royal fame, have transformed two historic buildings into a living gallery—one that celebrates design, culture, and the art of gathering. With her background in art and photography curation, Kirsten’s vision marries history and modernity with effortless elegance. In this episode, Kirsten shares how she’s shaped Berlin’s art and hospitality scenes—revealing her philosophy on collecting, creating soulful spaces, and honoring the ever-evolving spirit of her city. Top Takeaways [2:00] As a child, Kirsten always dreamed of a bigger and better world. After the fall of the Berlin Wall, she decided to set out and steward that world herself.  [4:00] How Kirsten and her husband, Stephan, with their shared appreciation for Berlin's creative energy and culinary artistry, fed and fueled the birth of Berlin’s contemporary art scene through their cult classic restaurant, Grill Royal.  [7:00] Hear the turbulent history of two historic buildings in the heart of Berlin Mitte, steps away from the Brandenburg Gate—from being the center of the Golden Twenties to falling into disrepair after WWII, from being used for surveillance during the GDR to housing the studios of squatting artists after the Berlin Wall.   [9:00] As Kirsten and Stephan breathed new life into these buildings, curating what would become Château Royal Berlin, they set out to create a space that was “decidedly cosmopolitan, yet unimaginable in any other city.” [10:20] Today, Château Royal Berlin is full of life and conviviality—as locals and travelers, artists and guests, fill the space with their own perspectives and fresh ideas.  [11:45] With 93 guest rooms to design and a deep personal determination that no two would be the same, Kirsten invited her artist community to fill their spaces. What then became #93Rooms93Artists, was a permanent home for these artists to proudly showcase their work, host their own guests and welcome in new friends. [14:30] At Restaurant Château Royal, a creative menu and curated atmosphere proves food can be fancy while still being familiar and fresh. Notable Mentions Director Edward Berger Artist & Art Collector Damien Hirst Château Royal’s Guide to Berlin Saint Charles Apothecary Venini Lamps & Chandeliers  Visit For Yourself Château Royal Berlin Website | @chateauroyalberlin

“ For many of our guests, they normally say, ‘It's not just a stay, it's a memory in the making.’ It’s a place where time slows down and where the ordinary, what do you say, becomes something truly extraordinary.” We’re in great company with Maria Oldenbjerg, the fairy godmother, formally known as the Hotel Director, of the Nimb Hotel in the heart of Copenhagen—where with the enchanting Tivoli Gardens as its lush backdrop, Nimb presents an unparalleled combination of subtle Scandinavian urban luxury, Danish design, meticulous service, and top-tier gastronomy, all infused with a touch of Tivoli enchantment.  Born in 1909 within a Moorish-inspired "Bazaar," this architectural gem began as the vision of culinary entrepreneurs Vilhelm and Louise Nimb, who transformed their restaurant into the heartbeat of Copenhagen's dining scene. Today, as the only hotel nestled within Europe's oldest amusement park and recognized among Small Luxury Hotels' elite "Finest Collection" and “Considerate Collection,” Nimb continues to redefine what it means to create authentic and sustainable luxury experiences that blur the lines between heritage and innovation. As seasons change, and ours begins with this episode, Maria invites the young, and the young at heart, to discover how she transforms ordinary moments into something truly magical—where “hygge” isn't just a travel trend, but a way of welcoming the world home.   Top Takeaways [2:00] The Phone Call That Changed Everything: After her first hotel shift, Maria called her mother excitedly: "I found my dream job. I want to become a general manager one day." That clarity eventually led her home to Nimb, the luxury hotel she'd always admired. [6:00] Where Dreams Take Root: In 1909, visionaries Vilhelm and Louise Nimb built their Moorish palace within Tivoli Gardens - Europe's oldest amusement park - bringing the entire world to Copenhagen so Danes could taste and travel without leaving home. [15:30] The Garden That Never Sleeps: Guests wake to the quiet serenity of the pristine grounds as they anticipate the day’s crowds. And after a day of excitement, guests retreat to find the soothing musical performances and twinkling lights linger like memories into the night. [16:00] Seasons of Wonder: The hotel breathes with Tivoli's rhythms - Easter treasure hunts, Halloween face painting, Christmas stockings crafted by Danish artisans, each moment woven into memory-making magic. [18:30] Rooms That Hold Stories: Each of Nimb's 38 spacious rooms and suites whispers secrets through understated luxury and timeless elegance, from handpicked antiques set against modern Danish design to complimentary “hygge bars" filled with local Danish delicacies.   [24:00] Culinary Theater: Dining at Nimb goes beyond the dish and becomes a storytelling medium, from Nimb Brasserie's French favorites to the Japanese Pagoda's rotating Michelin-starred chef residencies. [27:00] The Science of Renewal: A hidden wellness sanctuary redefines urban wellness - blending cutting edge technology with globally inspired ancient techniques - replenishing weary travelers with a sense of vitality. [38:40] Living Poetry: Peacocks wander as symbols of grace, their presence so beloved that feathers now adorn linens and inspire children's toys. Notable Mentions Danish Design Geismars bedding Toni fixtures Bang & Olufsen audio Artist Cathrine Raben Davidsen Flowers by Nimb Frederiksberg, Copenhagen Amager Strandpark Danish Smørrebrød Visit For Yourself Nimb Hotel Website | @nimbcopenhagen