Where to? All About April Travel

March 21, 2025

Spring has sprung, which means so has our wanderlust. (Then again, that’s our year-round state of mind here at WhirlAway!) So, where are our luxury clients escaping to in April? Europe, for starters. South Africa is also a spring favorite, as it’s beginning to cool down there as the country heads into its fall season. Here, some from-the-field inspiration on where we like-minded travelers are headed.

The Nature Lovers > South Africa

Why Go Now: Cape Town and the famous Okavango Delta are bucket-list checks, but there’s so much more to this favorite destination, which is why WhirlAway owner Jamie Jones has been to South Africa a remarkable nine times—and Africa 12 times! (Contact her for more insider intel.)

At a Glance: Upon arrival to Cape Town, explore its unique charm and beauty, with Table Mountain the backdrop to the iconic city skyline. Witness the Okavango Delta's incredible wildlife, including elephants, lions, and bird species. Explore the area on mokoro (traditional canoe) excursions, game drives, and walking safaris. Plus, experience wildlife encounters during a river safari on the Chobe River (hippos and crocs, oh my!)

Top Stays: You’ll unwind in South Africa’s most coveted hotels and resorts, with choices including Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel in Cape Town, The Silo Hotel in Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, and Stanley’s Camp in Okavango Delta, among others.

Don’t Miss: A helicopter ride over the Okavango Delta at day break, followed by a champagne picnic in the bush—simply divine!

The Coastal Chic Set > Greece

Why Go Now: Spring in Greece is on par with the romance of spring in Paris, especially in April—bustling Athens and island-hops lure big summer crowds (early bird gets the best).

At a Glance: One of our client’s itineraries includes stops in Athens (the Acropolis is obviously a must), Parikia on the island of Paros, an organic farm tour in the village of Naousa, and a gorgeous catamaran cruise around Paros.

Top Stays: Set amongst cedar trees along the spectacular Naxian coastline and the rolling hills of Stelida, the Naxian Collection of Luxury Villas and Suites is your luxe basecamp to the island's famous beaches, hotspots, and the port of Agia Anna.

Don’t Miss: The boating-only paradise of Kampana island and Panteronissi.

The History Buff > Turkey

Why Go Now: Turkey in April? Spring breathes new life into its coastal landscapes and historic sites. Discover Istanbul’s palaces and the vibrant Grand Bazaar sans summer crowds, while the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts beg for private yacht adventures.

At a Glance: St. Sophia Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque, and the Hippodrome—all are on tap. Turkey is known for its art, architecture, and history, and you’ll be fully immersed in culture and tradition.

Top Stays: A five-star gem located in the heart of the city’s commercial hub and overlooking the spectacular Kordon Promenade, Swissotel Grand Efes, Izmir, is nestled along the shores of the magnificent Bosphorus. Expect the glamour of a genuine Ottoman palace.

Don’t Miss: Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. Originally built as a Byzantine cathedral in 537 AD, it became an imperial mosque during the Ottoman Empire and is now a mosque once again, symbolizing the confluence of Eastern and Western cultures.

The Culturist > Amsterdam

Why Go Now: Two words—tulip season!

At a Glance: We created the ultimate itinerary for a family whose dream was to visit The Netherlands during tulip time. Customized to take in all the flowers, it also includes Amsterdam’s top experiences, plus a day trip to Delft. On the list: Zaanse Schans windmill village, the Van Gogh Museum, a Royal Diamond Experience, Anne Frank House, and Keukenhof gardens, where millions of bulbs are displayed in an 80-acre park.

Top Stays: Nestled between two historical canals, Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam is known for its rich history. The property was originally a 15th-century convent, then royal lodgings, and then the City Hall of Amsterdam.

Don’t Miss: A visit with a family-run bulb grower. Discover an off-the-beaten-path greenhouse and experience a private tour of the modern Dutch tulip trade.

The Epicurious > Italy

Why Go Now: Rolling hills and vineyards show off vibrant shades of wildflowers. Savor private wine tastings at prestigious Chianti estates, enjoy truffle hunting with top guides, and relax at five-star villas in Val d’Orcia.

At a Glance: Trip highlights include a Vespa tour through the Eternal City of Rome at sunset, an exclusive wine tasting in San Gimignano, a private olive oil cooking class in Tuscany, and renowned sites in Florence, including art treasures, the Uffizi Gallery, and Michelin-starred restaurants.

Top Stays: Located in the heart of Tuscany, Borgo Pignano is hugged by the hills of Volterra and features lavish private gardens, as well as artwork from the 18th century.

Don’t Miss: A scenic drive through the cypress-lined roads of Montepulciano. It’s the ultimate Tuscan afternoon, best followed by a wine tasting.

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Top 5 Safari Do’s & Don’ts

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Everyone talks about going on safari. But not everyone tells you how it feels—to experience a languid afternoon with winemakers who forgo the norm, to watch a lioness cradle her cub across the plains, to luxuriate in a Versace-drenched suite in the Winelands where the bathtub rivals the size of a Manhattan studio. WhirlAway’s Stacey Blum (whose job is to vet the best of the best) recently spent two weeks on an indelible journey through South Africa with Abercrombie & Kent. She discovered a symphony of wow factors—equal parts city, bush, and bliss. These five moments rose to the top as her most exclusive, most unexpected, and most unforgettable.

Just Back From: Turkey

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A land where empires rose and fell, Turkey is capturing the attention of the world’s most discerning travelers. What to expect? Quiet luxury, epicurean surprises, and indelible landscapes that stretch from the Aegean coast to Cappadocia's sculpted valleys. Michelin stars are landing in Istanbul, new yacht marinas sparkle along the Turquoise Coast, and restored Ottoman mansions offer world-class hospitality with a sense of place. Offering authenticity without sacrificing elegance, Turkey delivers both. Now is the moment to go—after just returning from her recent trip, WhirlAway Travel Luxury Advisor Anna Dunleavy lists 10 reasons to say YES to this enchanting country.

5 Unexpected & Unforgettable Experiences in Italy

May 29, 2025

1. A VIP visit to the Colonna Palace in Rome “It was completely closed to the public when we visited. They rarely do this level of private tour so it was truly a unique experience that no one can just click and book. It was extraordinary—we were literally invited into the home of Prince Prospero Colonna. We walked through room after room after room and not only got an art history lesson, but also learned about the history of the family. It was mind blowing, magical, and profoundly moving being surrounded by priceless works of art and Baroque masterpieces, exploring opulent galleries and salons, serene gardens, and discovering the Colonna family’s legacy—and having it all to ourselves! I don’t know a lot about art and our guide was able to speak to my level and also to someone who was a major art lover. It ended up being a bucket-list experience for me.”

An Insider’s Guide to Tulip Season in the Netherlands

May 9, 2025

The backstory: Her grandfather was a wholesale flower grower in Southeastern Pennsylvania and her dad grew up working in his greenhouses. Years later, Sara and her sister often rode along on deliveries, helping load and unload flats of flowers. Their grandfather received his bulbs from a man they called “the Dutchman,” whose shipments sometimes came packed along with a special pair of wooden shoes (Sara still has hers). Later in life, her father dreamed of visiting the Netherlands during “tulip time” with his two daughters. In April, they made it a reality with a next-level trip and customized itinerary featuring a deep dive into the flower business during peak bloom. Here, Sara shares her insider tips for taking it all in.

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What’s a quick, easy, and incredibly relaxing way to escape the winter doldrums? For WhirlAway’s Rachel Pentz and Amy Smolders, that answer came in a three-night sail on The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Ilma—perhaps the most luxurious super-yacht there ever was.