Travel is all about connecting with friends from around the world, and that’s what Virtuoso Travel Week is all about too. This year, the sense of community was even stronger as we shared stories of coping with the pandemic. I attended Virtuoso Travel Week 2021 in person, which was a welcome change from last year. The 2021 edition of VTW was a hybrid affair, with some attendees meeting in Las Vegas and many more joining remotely. That’s part of life these days, but through it all we have maintained our sense of community. And connection is one of the things that makes seeing the world so special: it unites us with a larger community and weaves the rich tapestry of life together.
Largay Travel Wins The Community Award
Throughout the pandemic, even and especially in the darkest days, we have tried to maintain that sense of community among our partners, our clients, and each other. That’s why it was such an honour to see Largay Travel win this year’s Virtuoso Travel Community Award. It was a testament to how we have worked to keep our travellers safe and informed, to make sure our colleagues are cared for, and to plan for a bright future as best we can.
“We run a community of like-minded, soulful individuals,” Largay Travel CEO and Chief Culture Curator Paul Largay said. “The community spirit that we have in our company, we’ve been able to share that … our success has not come at the surrender of our humanity or our humour. It is about trying to share the wealth, and when you have wealth, it’s easier to share. It is never an obligation, but an opportunity. I have such an amazing group of people that support us and support our community. I want to thank everyone who gave us the opportunity to really know what matters, and what matters is each other.”
It’s vitally important to carry that spirit as we venture out into the world once more. Travel isn’t as simple as it used to be, but it’s still an excellent way to enrich our lives, lift our spirits, and help our global community.
Related: What It’s Like to Travel in 2021
What I Learned at Virtuoso Travel Week 2021
To extend those good vibes to you, I thought I’d share a few tips that my colleagues and I picked up from our Virtuoso partners. From what’s new to who’s offering you exclusive benefits, I have the lowdown.
Great Weekend Getaways
- Primland in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia: travellers can enjoy a third night free
- Inn at Five Graces: under new management and designed to make visitors feel right at home.
No Need to Covid Test
- Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas: a luxurious tropical experience in the USVI
- Andaz Maui: This Hawaiian oasis includes outrigger canoe excursions, paddle board lessons, yoga classes, and more, with the resort fee
All About Wellness
- Fairmont hotels in Western Canada: pet-friendly, AND they donate the pet fees to local animal shelters. Perfect for a long road trip through the Canadian Rockies with your furry friend! And did someone say hikes? These properties are mostly within national parks.
- Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit: the wellness program here includes baby massages.
- Ponant and Smithsonian Journeys: this exciting partnership will take small-ship cruisers deep into the history, cuisine, language, and environment of destinations across the globe.
There’s so much more to share to enhance your travels the rest of this year and beyond. Contact me today to discover how to make your next trip the best one yet.