Elite Traveler Spring 2019

AFTERHOURS MEXICO

Mexico City is vibrant and lively, but also a densely populated place. Escape the crowds and visit two of the city’s most famous tourist spots — except you’ll visit without the tourists. In an exclusive After Hours experience with luxury tour operator Scott Dunn, you’ll have exclusive access to the Museo Frida Kahlo and the Museum of Anthropology, accompanied by a private guide at each location. Explore the exhibitions of Casa Azul, Frida Kahlo’s iconic studio and home, with your guide sharing stories of Kahlo’s tragic yet fascinating life. After the tour, enjoy a three- course candlelit dinner in the casa’s verdant courtyard garden. The Museum of Anthropology has one of the world’s largest collections of pre-Columbian artifacts, and you’ll have the place completely to yourself for your very own Night at the Museum, including a personalized tour with a private guide to introduce the Aztec pieces on display. From $6,450 per person for 10-night itinerary. Contact Sarah Lowe, senior Latin America travel consultant, +1 838 927 8122, scottdunn.com

CAMP OUT BOTSWANA

Come nightfall, the landscape of the Makgadikgadi Pans transforms into an otherworldly spectacle where millions of stars glitter in the almost complete blackness. For the best seats in the house, hop on a quad bike from Jack’s Camp and spend the night at the surreal, dry-granite-rock Kubu Island. An indulgent, three-course dinner will be prepared for you, and you’ll savor it — accompanied by your choice of tipple in crystal glasses — by the light of the moon. A bed draped in the finest Egyptian cotton awaits for your alfresco sleepover under the stars. The following morning, head back to Jack’s Camp — a hidden gem that was set up by legendary African explorer Jack Bousfield. It is one of two permanent camps in the Makgadikgadi and has its own museum with curious artifacts. Keep your eyes peeled for the family of habituated meerkats that hangs out close to the camp. From $1,350 per person per night. Contact Elaine Bonney, reservations consultant,

reservations@naturalselection.travel, +27 210 011 574, naturalselection.travel

SURF’S UP MOROCCO

The medinas and riads of Marrakech are a big draw inMorocco (turn to p122 for our insider’s guide to the city), but for a different pace, head to Oualidia. Facing a saltwater lagoon, this small village can be found on the Atlantic coast, far away from the crowds. The village is famed for surfing, oysters and the flocks of pink flamingos that reside in the lagoon. Stay at the secluded and intimate La Sultana Oualidia— it sits directly on the water and only has 12 guestrooms. Try a private surf lesson in one of the world’s best surfing spots (with options for both beginners and advanced surfers), or journey to a hidden beach for a private picnic of fresh seafood, followed by a visit to the oyster beds of Oualidia.

Ocean Suite from $1,000 per night. Contact Khalid Dady, head concierge, reservations@lasultanahotels.com, +212 524 388 008, lasultanahotels.com

Photo Elsa Young