Destination Guides
AZZURE LUXURY TRAVEL
Bordeaux, France
Wine & Culinary
A paradise for wine lovers, Bordeaux combines world-class vineyards, gourmet cuisine, and elegant architecture along the Garonne River. River cruises offer access to legendary wine regions like Médoc, Sauternes, and Saint-Émilion, all while enjoying Bordeaux’s vibrant culinary scene.
✔ Private wine blending experience at a Médoc château
✔ Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Garonne River with a sommelier
✔ Indulge in a hands-on pastry workshop with a Michelin-starred chef
✔ Visit a local oyster farm in Arcachon Bay for a fresh dégustation
✔ Cycle through the Saint-Émilion vineyards with exclusive tastings
When You Should Visit to Avoid the Crowds: For an intimate wine experience, visit Bordeaux between May and early June, or September and October when the vineyards are in full bloom, but the peak summer tourists have dispersed. You'll enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more personal tastings at world-renowned châteaux.
Amalfi Coast & Tuscany, Italy
Culture & Adventure
Italy is the epitome of romance, history, and indulgence—from Amalfi's cliffside villages to Tuscany's rolling vineyards. A small ship or river cruise allows you to seamlessly immerse yourself in Renaissance art, ancient ruins, and world-class gastronomy.
✔ Take a private vintage Fiat 500 drive through Tuscany’s countryside
✔ Learn the art of limoncello making with a local Amalfi family
✔ Experience an after-hours tour of Florence’s Uffizi Gallery
✔ Enjoy a farm-to-table cooking class in a 13th-century Tuscan villa
✔ Hike the Path of the Gods for breathtaking, secluded coastal views
When You Should Visit to Avoid the Crowds: Plan your trip to Italy’s Amalfi Coast and Tuscany in April to early June or September to October to experience warm days, scenic countryside, and coastal villages before and after the summer tourist rush. These months offer the best balance of pleasant weather and quiet exploration.
Greek Islands
Coastal Wonders
The Greek Islands offer a magical blend of history, mythology, natural beauty, and Mediterranean charm. From the iconic whitewashed villages of Santorini to the lush landscapes and ancient ruins of Crete, a small-ship luxury cruise provides access to hidden harbors and local experiences far beyond the typical tourist path.
✔ Explore the ancient Minoan palace of Knossos on Crete with a private guide
✔ Sail into the caldera of Santorini for a cliffside wine tasting
✔ Take a mosaic-making workshop in historic Delos
✔ Hike the Samaria Gorge in Crete for dramatic mountain views
✔ Join a private marble carving workshop in Paros, guided by a local sculptor
When You Should Visit without the Crowds
Sail the Greek Islands in May to early June or mid-September to October for mild weather, blooming landscapes, and fewer cruise ships in port.
French Polynesia (Tahiti & Bora Bora)
Tropical Relaxation
With crystal-clear lagoons, overwater bungalows, and a laid-back island vibe, French Polynesia is the ultimate escape for those seeking luxury, adventure, and tranquility. Small-ship cruises offer access to hidden atolls, where you can dive into local culture and untouched beauty.
✔ Take a private catamaran to hidden snorkeling spots around Taha’a
✔ Learn Polynesian cooking techniques from a local chef on Moorea
✔ Paddleboard at sunrise over Bora Bora’s turquoise lagoon
✔ Experience a private motu picnic with freshly caught seafood
✔ Explore hidden waterfalls and natural pools in the lush valleys of Moorea
When You Should Visit to Avoid the Crowds: French Polynesia is best enjoyed in late April to early June and September to November, when the weather is idyllic, and the tourist numbers are significantly lower. You'll have a more exclusive experience at top resorts, with better availability and fewer boats in the lagoons.
Galápagos, Ecuador
Expedition & Wildlife
An untouched paradise for wildlife lovers, the Galápagos offers a rare opportunity to experience nature without human interference. Luxury expedition cruises, guided by expert naturalists, provide exclusive access to remote islands.
✔ Swim alongside hammerhead sharks in Darwin’s Arch
✔ Walk through lava tunnels on Santa Cruz Island
✔ Kayak through the mangroves to spot sea turtles and golden rays
✔ Camp under the stars on an uninhabited island with a naturalist guide
✔ Hike to Sierra Negra’s volcanic crater on Isabela Island
Best Time: December-May for warm waters and calm seas
Off-Season (June-November) Perks: Cooler weather, fewer tourists, and the best wildlife sightings—including whale sharks and blue whales
Mekong River, Vietnam & Cambodia
Authentic Cultural Immersion
The Mekong River is the lifeblood of Southeast Asia, winding through Vietnam and Cambodia’s ancient temples, vibrant villages, and floating markets. A luxury river cruise allows you to explore hidden cultural gems, meet artisans, and experience daily life along the riverbanks.
✔ Visit a floating market at sunrise and taste fresh tropical fruits from local boat
✔ Explore hidden temple ruins in Cambodia’s jungle, away from Angkor Wat’s crowds
✔ Take a sampan ride through lush, narrow Mekong canals, visiting remote villages
✔ Experience a Buddhist blessing ceremony at a riverside pagoda
✔ Savor a private Khmer or Vietnamese cooking class with a local chef
Best Time to visit: November-April for cooler, dry weather and lush scenery
Off-Season (May-October) Perks: Fewer tourists, lower prices, and the best time for lush landscapes and fewer boats crowding key sites
Austria & Hungary on the Danube
Enchanting River Journey
Sailing through Austria & Hungary on the Danube River offers a journey through imperial history, vibrant cultural traditions, and scenic landscapes. Discover Vienna’s grand palaces, the Wachau Valley’s terraced vineyards, and Budapest’s historic thermal baths, all while enjoying the elegance of a river cruise.
✔ Visit a hidden wine cellar in Austria’s Wachau Valley for a private tasting
✔ Explore the underground labyrinth beneath Buda Castle in Budapest
✔ Take a private classical concert in a historic Viennese palace
✔ Experience a traditional schnitzel-making class in Salzburg
✔ Cycle along the scenic riverbanks from Dürnstein to Melk Abbey
When You Should Visit to Avoid the Crowds: The best time to cruise the Danube is April to early June or September to October when the weather is pleasant, the crowds are fewer, and the seasonal festivals bring charm to riverside villages.