Image: El Colibri Estancia, Argentina
LATA is pleased to share new product, tours and information from across the membership. As always, if we can help with any stories or input into features, please do not hesitate to contact us.
LATA’S MEDIA NEWS
LATA’s next press supper is taking place on 13 May at M Restaurant in London. This event is now full for media but to be added to the waiting list, please email Katie.
The LATA Media Awards 2025 will be announced soon. Please save the date: 16 September
For all media enquiries please email katie@lata.travel
NEWS FROM ACROSS THE LATA MEMBERSHIP
DESTINATION NEWS
ANTARCTICA
New Science & Discovery Program launching with Quark Expeditions
Debuting in the Antarctic 2026-2027 season, the Science & Discovery Program will play an integral role in all World Voyager departures. This program offers guests the unique opportunity to engage directly with scientists and researchers and participate in citizen science activities with the expedition team to collect and record data.
Continuing Quark Expeditions’ longstanding commitment to scientific research, the company has formed an exclusive partnership with the Friedlaender Lab at the University of California, San Diego. Led by Ari Friedlaender, founder of the Biotelemetry and Behavioural Ecology Lab at UCSD and Professor in the Ocean Sciences Department, this collaboration is at the heart of the Antarctic Marine Mammals: The World of Whales and Seals expedition, which offers guests a rare opportunity to observe research being conducted by world leading marine mammal experts. Throughout this 11-day journey, guests will assist experts who are collecting data on whale behaviour, listen to underwater whale sounds through portable hydrophones, and follow the path of migratory species like minke, humpback, and fin whales. They will also engage with Friedlaender’s team and research associates from Happywhale, contributing to citizen science efforts focused on whale identification and conservation. With access to our Science Hub, guests can further immerse themselves in marine mammal research, playing a key role in conserving Antarctica’s pristine habitat.
Images here
ARGENTINA
New Horses Paradise Program in the heart of Argentina – Estancia El Colibrí Relais & Châteaux
In 2025, Estancia El Colibrí Relais & Châteaux celebrates its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of offering an authentic Argentinean experience in the Sierras de Córdoba. To commemorate this milestone, the estancia has introduced Horses Paradise, a new program designed especially for horse enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy 3 to 6 hours of daily horseback riding, immerse themselves in gaucho culture, and experience unique activities like polo initiation and a holistic organic farm tour. Available year-round from 2 nights and completely personalized, the Horses Paradise program caters to solo travellers, couples, and families with teenagers. Located just an hour from the city centre of Córdoba yet surrounded by infinite pampas and marvellous landscapes, Estancia El Colibrí offers an unforgettable retreat in nature, blending heartfelt hospitality with authentic traditions.
Price: 690 USD per day per person (year-round except for end-of-year festivities). -30% discount for the third person in a triple room.
BOLIVIA
A recent list of the 30 best restaurants in Latin America, published by National Geographic, highlights three Bolivian establishments that have gained recognition as the country’s culinary leaders: Gustu and Phayawi (both in La Paz), and Nativa (Sucre).
Gustu (meaning “taste” in Quechua) works strictly with local products, with a sustainable focus and the goal of sharing the local variety in each gastronomic experience. It is renowned for its fine dining options that combine traditional Bolivian cuisine with innovative techniques while focusing on sustainable practices that empower Bolivian producers and communities. New for 2025 is an immersive cooking class at the restaurant, preparing one of the dishes from the menu, using local Bolivian ingredients, combined with a visit to an organic garden to discover more about the fresh produce. It includes a three-course paired dinner and a special Gustu gift.
Contact Pure! Travel Group for more information
BRAZIL
New tour: Leblon Boteco Experience
This walking tour is an introduction to a beloved Carioca institution, the “boteco”. Leblon is a charming, tree-lined neighbourhood where it is common to find its residents drinking, eating and talking while standing in front of or at the counter of “botecos”, which are very informal pubs, often frequented by people leaving the beach. Our tour will pass through 4 bars to try 4 drinks that are dear to Brazilians: bottled beer, draft beer, batidas (a mixed fruit drink) and caipirinha. Some stops will also include “petiscos”, typical bar food.
Contact Blumar for more information
Discover the Atlantic Forest’s Last Great Refuge with Gondwana Brasil
Gondwana Brasil introduces two exclusive tours in the Grande Reserva Mata Atlântica, a UNESCO Natural Heritage Site and home to the largest continuous remnant of the Atlantic Forest. This pristine region, recognized since 1999, is a haven for biodiversity and local communities, offering immersive travel experiences that support conservation and cultural heritage.
Family Escape: Discovering Paraná’s Coastal Treasures (6-days) – A carefully crafted journey connecting generations through nature and culture. Families will enjoy scenic train rides through the Serra do Mar, explore charming colonial towns, visit Ekôa Park, an interactive conservation and education hub in Morretes, and experience the untouched beauty of Ilha do Mel, a car-free island paradise.
Off the Beaten Path: Secrets of Paraná’s Coastline (5-days) – Designed for adventurous travellers seeking hidden gems, this itinerary ventures into remote trails, secluded beaches, and authentic encounters with local caiçara communities. It’s an invitation to explore Brazil beyond the traditional routes.
What to Book and When
Brazil’s tourism is set for a record year in 2024/5, with 6.8 million international visitors expected. Planning a 2025 trip to Brazil? Timing is key when booking a trip to Brazil! Journey Brazil’s expert advice helps you secure the best experiences and destinations. From the Champion’s Parade in Rio post-Carnival to the surreal beauty of Lençóis Maranhenses, there’s something for every traveller. Book now for jaguar safaris in the Pantanal or luxury stays in the Amazon, where wildlife and unique culture await. For summer vacations, head to Bahia or the Pantanal, perfect for avoiding crowds.
See more insider tips for Brazil here
CHILE
World Rally Championship Comes to Chile in September 2025
We’re excited to share that Chile remains a key stop on the 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) calendar, featuring its biggest season since 2008 with a 14-round schedule.
The Rally Chile Biobío, scheduled for September 11-14, 2025, marks the eleventh race of the season and will take place on the challenging gravel roads of the Biobío region. This event offers tourists a unique opportunity to experience the adrenaline of world-class rally racing set against Chile’s stunning landscapes.
With travelArt, you can craft unforgettable travel experiences around this iconic event, combining the excitement of WRC with the beauty of the country’s diverse regions.
Mining and Heritage: Chuquicamata Tour is Back
The traditional tour of Codelco’s Chuquicamata Division is once again open to visitors, offering a fascinating look at this historic mining site.
Free guided tours take place every Monday and Thursday at 1:00 pm (reservations in advance are required, as there are limited spots).
The experience includes a visit to the historic mining camp (1915–2007), the World Shovel, a testament to mid-20th century mining technology, and the Mina Rajo Viewpoint, where visitors can observe both the open-pit and underground mining operations.
New! Patagonian E-Biking Adventure – A Sustainable Way to Explore
For an unforgettable, eco-friendly experience in Chilean Patagonia this new HD Patagonian E-Biking is a great way to explore this breath taking region on two wheels!
Starting in Puerto Natales, this new half-day tour will take guests on 18 km of scenic dirt roads with minimal traffic, immersing themselves in Patagonia’s untamed beauty. The journey leads to a historic estancia, a place full of history and culture that reflects the gaucho life of Patagonia with stunning views of Eberhard and Última Esperanza fjords, Torres del Paine, and the legendary Milodon Cave. It can also be extended into a full-day adventure with immersive cultural activities at the estancia.
Las Majadas Hotel – Maipo Valley Program
Experience up close the wine from the Maipo Valley, one of the most important wine valleys in the world. Known for its privileged terroir and its Cabernet Sauvignon, has been awarded as the third most recommended wine tourism destination in the world by the readers of USA TODAY.
Las Majadas Hotel invites you to visit the local vineyards, immerse yourself in their landscapes, learn about the winemaking process, and taste wines right at their place of origin.
The Discover the Maipo Valley program is a unique experience. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Maipo Valley’s stunning landscapes and world-class wines, tour one of our renowned vineyards*, learn the history behind its wineries, and enjoy the exceptional flavors of their wines. A perfect adventure for wine and nature lovers!
*Vineyard selection depends on availability.
USD 625, based on Parque Superior double room.
Refugia Chiloé – Tierra Chiloé returns to the Purcell family’s ownership and reverts to original name
The Purcell family is delighted to announce that the hotel currently known as Tierra Chiloé is returning to their full ownership and on April 30, 2025 it will revert to its original name, Refugia Chiloé.
Refugia Chiloé is a luxury hotel and spa in Chile, located on Chiloé island, just off the central coast of Chile. Refugia Chiloé’s beautiful architecture exudes warmth and local authenticity with 24 wood-clad guestrooms, open seasonally from the beginning October to early May.
Refugia Chiloé is now fully owned and operated by the Purcell family, Chilean-Americans from Santiago, with a long history at the very top of the Chilean hospitality industry. Led today by Miguel Purcell, the family will bring back their personal touch, expertise and success in hospitality. Refugia Chiloé will offer more realistic rates without dynamic pricing, be family friendly and set no minimum stay requirement.
The Purcell family is dedicated to conservation, and one of their strategic pillars for Refugia Chiloé is the conservation of Chiloé island, its culture, and community.
COSTA RICA
Rio Perdido Unveils New Spa and Wellness Garden Within Costa Rica’s Rare Ecosystem
Rio Perdido, the eco-luxury boutique hotel in the tropical dry forest of Guanacaste, has opened a new spa, yoga shala and wellness garden that promises a transformative healing experience. The spa’s relocation to a serene, secluded spot enhances guests’ connection to nature in one of the world’s rarest ecosystems surrounded by nature’s soothing sounds.
Nestled within the forest and accessible by a suspension bridge overlooking the Rio Perdido below, the spa features open-air treatment rooms and products derived from organic native botanicals. A newly expanded yoga shala set amongst the treetops offers an idyllic space for meditation and movement.
The centre also introduces unique therapies, such as sound bathing and earthing sessions. Rio Perdido’s commitment to holistic wellness extends beyond the spa, with over 30km of trails and the natural thermal river offering endless opportunities for nature therapy.
A Journey into the World of Sound
Take a deep breath, close your eyes, and listen, not just with your ears, but with your entire being. This Sound Immersion Experience is a gateway to mindfulness, creativity, and deep connection with nature, designed to reset the mind and body, which can be added to all tailored itineraries and experiences in Costa Rica with Travel Pioneers. Escape the overstimulation of modern life and step into the pure, vibrational energy of the rainforest.
Through soundscape ecology, forest bathing, and vibroacoustic technology, this transformative journey attunes you to the natural rhythms of the world. Engage in deep listening, ear cleansing, and audio yoga, uncovering the origins of music and language while surrounded by ancient forests.
The healing benefits include a reduction in stress hormones (15% decrease in cortisol), improvement in sleep (fall asleep 20% faster, increase efficiency by 10%) and supporting pain management (22% reduction in analgesic use for chronic pain)
Welcome to SCP Corcovado Wilderness Lodge
Nestled in Costa Rica’s South Pacific, SCP Corcovado Wilderness Lodge offers a sanctuary for eco-conscious travellers. Set on 189 acres of pristine land, surrounded by 250,000 acres of Corcovado National Park, this region is home to 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity, making it one of the most ecologically rich areas on Earth. Our eco-friendly accommodations, crafted from natural fibers and wood, harmoniously blend with the surrounding 500+ year-old trees and ancient jungles. We are proud to power 80% of our operations with clean energy, combining solar panels and a hydroelectric plant to minimize our environmental footprint.
Recognised with the highest level of Sustainable Tourism Certification (CST), we are committed to responsible tourism that uplifts nature and local communities, ensuring that every stay makes a meaningful difference. Through our Every Stay Does Good® program, each visit supports positive change: helping 187,000 adolescents through the We Well-being program, and planting over 196,000 trees in deforested areas globally through One Tree Planted.
Our Blue Warriors program teaches Costa Rican children English and sustainable tourism, equipping them with skills for future opportunities while promoting eco-consciousness and cultural preservation.
SCP Corcovado is proud of our regenerative tourism approach, offering hands-on educational experiences through our Citizen Science program. Guests can participate in beach cleanups, whale monitoring with Innoceana, and research on species like jaguars and pumas with Namma Conservation. These efforts help protect the region’s biodiversity while fostering awareness.
Our Boruca chef plays an essential role in sharing the vibrant culture of the Boruca community. Guests can join traditional culinary experiences and paint Boruca masks, with proceeds supporting local artisans. Visit our gift shop to take home Borucan-made amenities and contribute to the community’s growth.
At SCP Corcovado, every visit helps preserve the environment and uplift local communities.
COLOMBIA
Barichara – the cradle of craftsmen
Barichara is a municipality that was declared a National Architectural Monument in 1975, thanks to its well-preserved Spanish colonial-style urban structure and its cultural richness. This region offers unique experiences that will immerse you in local traditions while supporting the community such as:
- In the Fique Paper Workshop, nine women heads of households teach the process of creating handmade paper made of fique, from obtaining the fiber to the formation and drying of the sheets, where you will discover the value of this ecological material and the importance of craftsmanship.
- Meanwhile, the Soil Painting Tour invites you to explore the limits of your creativity using colored soils from Santander, in a relaxed environment where you can express your ideas in a work of art.
These experiences not only allow you to connect with the charm of Barichara but also promote responsible tourism and the preservation of traditional knowledge.
Explore Bogota from an ancestral perspective
Ancestral City Tour in Bogota, is a new full-day experience led by members of the Muisca community that introduces Bogota from their unique cosmovision. This immersive journey unveils Bogota’s millennia of history, taking travellers beyond traditional routes. It starts with a ceremony at Plaza Bolivar followed by a guided walk through La Candelaria, including an ancestral weaving experience, and a visit to the Gold Museum. Guests will also try native plants and seeds such as Sacha Inchi, cacao, and Amazonian chai tea, among others. Culminating in a traditional fire ceremony with hot chocolate. Undoubtedly, a meaningful and transformative experience for a deep cultural connection to Bogotá’s ancestral legacy.
ECUADOR
The Violet Tourism Initiative – the Sinchi Warmi community tourism project
Ecuador is proud to announce and promote a new tourism project: “Violet Tourism”. Violet Tourism is focused on advancing female participation in the tourism industry, giving independent working women higher visibility and more opportunities in the world’s most productive line of work.
“Sinchi Warmi” in Kichwa means “strong woman”, and this is evident in their strength in overcoming adversity and coming together to form this community tourism project in the Ecuadorian Amazon, under the “Violet Tourism” banner. Since 2002, this group of Kichwa women have dedicated their lives to building a better future by offering tours to visitors who wish to learn more about their lives and traditions, while also supporting local sustainability initiatives and causes.
Geo Boutique Travel Designer is a business that was created and continues to be directed by women, has tried its hardest to bring the Violet Tourism initiative and its enterprising women to the forefront, focusing on their lives and exploring this unknown part of Ecuadorian culture, and giving them the spotlight.
As well as giving these strong women an avenue towards a successful life, the project has also had a focus on sustainability, and all the communities involved with the initiative have pledged their dedication to preserving their natural surroundings and teaching their guests about its importance.
The Art of Not Competing with Nature
Latin Trails introduces a refined new décor aboard Seaman Journey, inspired by its commitment to Galápagos’ natural beauty. This carefully curated design enhances the onboard experience, ensuring that nature remains the true highlight of every journey.
From artwork to coasters, cushions, and postcards, every detail has been thoughtfully selected to create harmony with the surroundings, immersing guests in the essence of the islands. Passengers can even take a piece of Galápagos home by sending personalized postcards, designed to reflect their cabin’s unique aesthetic.
This new concept embodies Latin Trails’ philosophy: the beauty of Galápagos should not compete with its surroundings but rather enhance them.
For more information visit here.
Discover the Human History of Galapagos Through ‘Floreana’
Embark on a journey like no other with Floreana, a captivating book that unveils the remarkable story of Margaret Wittmer, one of the first settlers of Floreana Island. As you explore the enchanted islands aboard our First-Class cruises, let this literary adventure transport you to the past, deepening your connection with Galapagos’ rich human history.
This unique literary adventure not only brings Galapagos history to life but also supports the Rolf Wittmer Foundation, funding education for the island’s only school. More than just a book, Floreana allows travellers to connect with the past while making a lasting impact on the future.
Exclusive Rafting Arrival Experience
Kuyana Lodge invites you to experience the Amazon like never before with our exclusive rafting arrival package. Begin your adventure as you navigate the breathtaking Hollín River, arriving directly at the lodge immersed in nature. This package includes guided hikes to the island, a scenic viewpoint, or cascading waterfalls, allowing you to connect with the lush beauty of Ecuador’s Amazon.
After your thrilling arrival, relax in our luxurious accommodations, offering the perfect blend of comfort and elegance, surrounded by the pristine rainforest. Kuyana Lodge combines adventure with relaxation, making it the ideal destination for those seeking both excitement and tranquillity in an exclusive setting.
New Holistic Retreats for mind, body and soul in the Heart of the Amazon
New for 2025, La Selva Eco-Lodge & Retreat introduces a transformative holistic retreat program, offering travelers a deep connection to nature in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest. Designed for individuals and groups, these retreats integrate mindfulness, yoga, and energy-balancing practices to promote clarity, stress relief, and emotional well-being.
Guided by expert retreat masters, guests will experience cacao ceremonies, river rituals, daily yoga, guided meditation, and immersive wildlife encounters. The program also includes an optional spa and a nutrient-balanced menu for a complete mind-body reset.
New signature experiences for 2025 include rituals to reset and manifest new intentions, a sacred union ceremony for couples, mindful trekking and personalised holistic sessions.
Casa Gangotena offers cocktail experience featuring new flavours inspired by Ecuador’s flowers
Try your hand at cocktail-making with a class at Casa Gangotena, sipping your creation from the hotel’s rooftop terrace with spectacular views of Quito. Guests can include as part of a culinary tour of Quito which includes the most iconic food spots and cultural experiences, perfectly showcasing the heritage of the city, with a focus on Ecuadorian cuisine.
Begin at the historic San Francisco Market, a cornucopia of fruits, vegetables, meats, juices, drinks and traditional healers. Visit the San Roque neighbourhood to sample Agua de la Vida, a unique herbal drink made from medicinal plants. Take part in a hands-on chocolate-making workshop, discover traditional Ecuadorian sweets at the Archbishop’s Palace and marvel at the Baroque architecture of La Compañía church.
MEXICO
Camp Cuevas wildlife experience
Camp Cuevas is TOSEA’s new program with the famous Cuevas Family of El Pardito in the Sea of Cortez. The Cuevas brothers Juan and Felipe are 4th generation shark hunters who have turned their unique marine life knowledge and tracking skills into a wildlife protection program. On this 4 day/3-night program Juan and Felipe share their extraordinary, bred-in-the-bone knowledge of the islands, the Sea of Cortez and its many diverse inhabitants. They take us to find hammerheads, swim with sea lions, night snorkel in bioluminescence and meet the large population of Eastern Pacific Hawksbill Turtles in the mangroves near their home that first inspired their journey into conservation. Our camp is on a secluded beach on the breathtakingly beautiful Isla San Jose with chef-prepared meals, daily happy hour, large dome tents with real beds. A dreamy retreat into the luxury of nature – with some of its most passionate protectors.
New luxury hotel openings
Rosewood Residences Old Lighthouse, Los Cabos (2025): A luxury retreat near the historic lighthouse with ocean views, a spa, and gourmet dining.
Chablé Sea of Cortez, La Paz (Late 2025): A beachfront resort with pod-style accommodations, private terraces, and a luxury spa.
Milaroca, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Nayarit (2025): Eco-luxury paradise with tropical landscapes, pools, and local experiences.
St. Regis Los Cabos at Quivira (February 2025): Luxury with panoramic ocean views, a St. Regis spa, and personalized service.
Hotel Sevilla, Mérida (December 2025): A boutique hotel blending heritage and modernity with lush patios and a serene pool.
UNICO 21°105° Puerto Vallarta (Autumn 2025): A modern resort with ocean views, pools, and wellness facilities.
Waldorf Astoria San Miguel de Allende (Early 2025): A luxury retreat in a UNESCO site with a rooftop oasis and cultural exploration.
These new openings set a new standard in Mexican luxury.
PERU
Explorandes: The Great Inca Trail
The Great Inca Trail is one of the most remarkable, yet unknown, long-distance trekking routes in the world. While many people associate Inca history with Machu Picchu and the Cusco region, this ancient, monumental trail extended far beyond, connecting communities and infrastructure along the spine of the Andes in South America from Ecuador to Chile and Argentina.
For the past three years, Explorandes has been working in collaboration with other Peruvian tour operators to explore, develop and promote viable trekking experiences on different sections of this vast network. One of the best-preserved sections is a 70 km stretch between Chavín and Huánuco Pampa, in Ancash, home to impressive archaeological remains spanning over 3,000 years of development of Andean civilization.
Launching in April 2025 is a 6d/5n fixed departure starting the last Sunday of each month between April and October, also available as a private departure on request.
Together with two other companies and a local foundation, Explorandes recently contributed funds for a study to identify and budget key interventions and archaeological restoration projects along the route to improve the visitor experience for public use, including tourism. Explorandes’ goal is to ensure that the Great Inca Trail doesn’t fade into history, believing that in order for it to be preserved it must remain a living route – one that is experienced, understood, and valued.
Chacas in the Áncash region receives the “Pueblo con Encanto” recognition
In a ceremony filled with colour, music, and joy, the town of Chacas in the Áncash region was recognized as “Pueblo con Encanto” (Charming Town).
This initiative aims to enhance visitors’ experiences and promote sustainable tourism in destinations with tourism potential that boast valuable cultural heritage and unique natural attributes.
Chacas is 3,359 meters above sea level in the Callejón de Conchucos. It stands out for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and remarkable artisanal tradition. It is an ideal destination for nature and adventure lovers. Among its main attractions are the Contrahierbas mountain and the Punta Olímpica tunnel, which offer unique experiences at over 4,000 meters in altitude.
12 places designated as “Pueblos con Encanto”: Ollantaytambo (Cusco), Lamas (San Martín), Malabrigo y Cascas (La Libertad), Sarhua (Ayacucho), Villa Rica and Oxapampa (Pasco), Yanque and Sibayo (Arequipa), Quinua (Ayacucho), Huancaya (Lima) and Chacas (Áncash). The latest to receive this recognition is Chacas in Áncash.
Cusco’s Most Sacred Ceremonies
In the heart of the Andes, Cusco preserves rituals that transcend time, connecting travellers with the ancestral energy of this sacred land.
Every June 24th, Inti Raymi lights up the city in a majestic tribute to the Sun, just as the Incas did centuries ago. It is a journey into the past, where history comes to life through chants and dances.
The Pachamama ceremony is an act of gratitude to Mother Earth, a moment of deep connection where the soul aligns with nature in a sacred offering.
And if there is an even more meaningful ritual, it is the union of two souls. Andean weddings seal love with the blessing of the Apus, in a mystical setting where time and destiny intertwine.
New luxury tented camp: Tinajani opening in the Alitiplano
Opening in April 2025, Tinajani is a remote property in the Peruvian Altiplano, where towering red rock formations and deep Andean heritage shape an otherworldly landscape. Designed for just 16 guests at a time, this low-impact tented hamlet offers an intimate gateway to adventure, tradition, and unspoiled beauty.
Set on a restored sheep farm, Tinajani sits between Cusco’s imperial lands, Colca’s dramatic canyon, and Titilaka’s serene shores, unveiling a new frontier of exploration in southern Peru. Days unfold through immersive excursions, ancestral cooking, and moments of pure stillness in nature’s grandeur. Each safari-style campamento features two tents—one for sleeping and one for reading—along with an outdoor deck and a private hot tub under the stars.
With its blend of rugged wilderness and Andean comfort, Tinajani is a place where myths and landscapes converge to tell a story, inviting travellers to experience the Altiplano in its purest form.
OMTE names Peru as the top equestrian tourism destination for 2025
The World Organization of Equestrian Tourism (OMTE) has named Peru the “Equestrian Tourism Destination of 2025,” recognizing its rich equestrian heritage, particularly the Peruvian Paso Horse, a National Cultural Heritage. Jorge Navarro Bernal, president of the Cultural Association of the Peruvian Paso Horse, emphasized this award highlights Peru’s native breeds like the Morochuco, Chumbivilcano, and Andean Horse. From February 17-21, OMTE president José Sererols visited Peru to certify local tourism companies in the equestrian sector. Additionally, the Third World Championship of the Peruvian Paso Horse will be held on October 4-5 with delegations from 12 countries.
TRENDS
The Rise of Sabbatical Travel
The sabbatical trend is rising. In 2022, 38% of employers offered one (CIPD). By 2024, the number was 53% (CMI). The pandemic shifted priorities from pay cheques to purpose, and businesses are responding, offering an extended break to retain top talent.
Meticulous planning is essential to making the most of sabbatical time. LiNGER Travel is an award-winning, ‘Travel + Leisure’ A-Listed sabbatical specialist, curating seamless, unpretentiously luxurious journeys that balance bucket lists with off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Where to go? How about an overland journey through Central America, ending on a private catamaran in Belize’s cayes (7 weeks, family of 4 from £24k pp). Or a journey to the source of the Amazon in Peru (4 week solo trip, from £27k). Or discovering Brazil beyond Rio (7 weeks, from £28k pp based on two travelling together).
NEW TOURS
COSTA RICA
Discover the World – Costa Rica Family Adventure
Around 30% of bookings to date have been for family groups, which is considerably higher than for other long-haul destinations offered by Discover the World, where they typically see more couples travelling.
Proving to be a very popular destination for families, Discover the World have created a fantastic 13-night, year-round, family adventure to Costa Rica. Show your kids where the wild things are; mingle with monkeys, spot snoozing sloths and plan a quest for a resplendent quetzal. With immersive multi-night stays and less time on the road, this is the perfect family trip. We’ve filled the itinerary with exciting adventures, such as zip-lining through the rain forest, a river float safari, jungle night hike, cocoa farm tour and catamaran cruise – but with time to enjoy the pools and beaches.
From £4460 per person, excluding flights.
PERU
Abercrombie & Kent: Pure Amazon riverboat, An A&K Sanctuary
Launching Mid-2025
The Amazon Basin is one of the greatest remaining wildernesses on earth. Realistically, there’s only one way to explore it: by boat. And there’s only one way to explore it in the highest of high style: aboard A&K Sanctuary’s state-of-the-art riverboat, Pure Amazon, which launches in mid-2025 with three-, four- and seven-night itineraries in the vast Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, in northern Peru. The opportunities for wildlife-spotting are exceptional, and the small scale of Pure Amazon – just 12 superbly appointed, Adriana Granato-designed cabins accommodating a maximum of 22 passengers, with a staff-to-guest ratio of one-to-one – guarantees an intimate, highly personalised experience.
Experience on a Tailor Made Peru: Machu Picchu & the Amazon or a small Group Journey: Peru: Machu Picchu & the Amazon , Peru by River & Rail 2025