the insider newsletter: 7 aug 2023

Hi,

Happy Monday! I'm hopping into your inbox with big news and of course, your insider tips from my world of luxury travel ??.

This week:

• An update from my desk - BIG news for Abbay's Escapes!
• Insider tips ??
• Blog posts that you'll love
• Upcoming client trips - great for inspiration!
• Recent client love

Keep reading to learn more!

an update from abbay's desk

First, the BIG news. The team is growing (and this time it's not a baby!). I'm thrilled to share that?Chris Lovell ?(who also doubles as my other half) has officially joined the?Abbay's Escapes ?team ??.

In case you haven't met him, Chris is an Englishman who has traveled all over the world and spent time living in South Africa, Australia, and more recently New Zealand, where we met! Previously, he spent 18 years in the engineering and construction industry and is a Chartered Civil Engineer in the UK.

Chris's favorite places to travel are the far-flung variety, including Nepal, Peru, Jordan, Finland, Patagonia, and Japan. And his favorite travel memories usually revolve around food - the spicier and the more 'local,' the better!

Next up, my insider tips!

Insider tip #1: this one is for Italy ??.

We all love Italy. But this means the most popular regions (looking at you Rome, Venice, & Amalfi Coast) book up very quickly. Alas, we are here to help you explore the just as wonderful but less-ventured regions. May I introduce you to Umbria...

Umbria is a land unto itself, and the only Italian region that borders neither the sea or another country, known as 'The Green Heart'. This unique positioning ensures that historic Italian traditions are preserved with less external influence and a climate optimal for producing excellent wine, hearty food (truffles!), and olive oil. Umbria is a dreamy landscape of cypress trees, scenic lakes and rolling green hills offering special hiking, fishing, and culinary experiences. This region is a true cornucopia of medieval fairytale towns, rich in Etruscan, Roman and Medieval history, such as Assisi, Gubbio, and Spoleto.

If you're looking to embrace the wonders of Umbria, the charming and historic town of Perugia is a great place to start. A historic hillside city, it offers an abundance of immersive activities. It also offers a country-cosmopolitan experience, while being surrounded by the un-spoilt countryside.

My favorite day trips to include in an Umbria itinerary:

• Assisi - Impressive religious and culture rich town, notably, the birthplace of St. Francis.
• Spoleto - Stunning city beneath the Apennine Mountains boasting beautiful architecture.
• Marmore Falls - Tallest manmade waterfall in the world created by the Romans.
• Cortona - Just across the border in Tuscany, a picturesque village with preserved ancient settlements.

Insider tip #2: Is Hawaii on your list? ??

Great news - now is a great time to plan travel to Hawaii! Hotel rates have adjusted since they skyrocketed once upon a time during covid where it was one of the only places that Americans could travel.

My partners at the Four Seasons properties in Hawaii have some great special offers and availability for late summer, fall, or during the Christmas/New Years holidays. Hit reply to shoot us an email if you want to learn more!

latest travel news

• Paris will soon allow swimming in the Seine for the first time in over 100 years ?(Travel + Leisure).
• Why did 488 Golden Retrievers gather in Scotland? ?(The New York Times).
• Europe will roll out an entry fee and visa requirement next year ?(Travel + Leisure).

blog posts you'll love

An Englishman in Paris: Top 5 Highlights

Hi, my name is Chris and I'm Abbay's Escapes' first hire. I'm also Abbay's husband (which may have helped me get the job!) and guest blog writer this month. Nice to meet you.

Today I'm going to be sharing with you my top 5 highlights as an Englishman in Paris.

Click?here ?to keep reading.

The 5 biggest misconceptions when it comes to using a travel advisor

I'm here today to address the five biggest misconceptions I hear the most when it comes to trusting someone else with your trip.

Click?here ?to keep reading.

upcoming client trips

Looking for inspiration? Check out where some of my wonderful clients are traveling this month:

• Four Seasons Hotel Boston , Massachusetts
• White Barn Inn & Spa , Maine
• Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North , Arizona
• Luxury Mediterranean cruise with Regent Severn Seas , Europe
• European trip of a lifetime visiting Scotland, Ireland, France, Spain, & Italy for over a month (I particularly enjoyed this challenge! ??)

Inspired? Want to learn more? Get in touch!

client love

Better than you could imagine.?“...the overall experience was significantly easier, more relaxed and more beneficial with the help of Abbay! From landing at the airport to upgraded services. And overall just knowing more of what to expect - wouldn’t book without her! (And this isn’t our first experience booking with Abbay.). Highly recommend!”?Thompson, May 2023

Check out our?Reviews and Recommendations ?page to read more about what our clients are saying.

Wherever you decide to go, I continue to urge you to plan ahead for 2024! You may hear me repeat this over the coming months (I'll say sorry now ??), but I don't want you to miss out. Planning prior to January means you will have your first pick of the great experiences on offer for 2024!?

That's all for this month. I hope you've enjoyed it!