Elite Traveler Summer 2023

LEADERS IN LUXURY TRAVEL

Clockwise from right A&K has brought back its Wildlife Safari: Around the World by Private Jet, a 25-day tour that heads to wildlife destinations

ABERCROMBIE & KENT

In 1958, Geo ff rey Kent, who was a teenager at the time, drove his motorbike from Nairobi to Cape Town. During the journey, he experienced his fi rst-ever hotel stay — and chose one of the grandest hotels in Africa for the occasion. This marriage of adventure and luxury set the foundations for the travel company’s ethos. Abercrombie & Kent, or A&K as it is commonly known, was founded in 1962 by Geo ff rey and his parents, Colonel John and Valerie Kent. While home on leave from the British Army in Kenya, the Kents noticed a rise in the number of tourists to East Africa, and so decided to start their own travel company to host safaris around their beloved homeland. A&K continued to blend adventure with extravagance — just like Geo ff rey experienced on that early motorbike ride — and delivered the fi rst luxurious tented camps in Africa. Since its inception in the 1960s, A&K has gone on to set the gold standard for experiential travel, curating surprising adventures in all seven continents (and, in some itineraries, visiting all seven in one cosseted hit). From small group tours to custom trips, private jet itineraries and cruises, the vacations provide an enveloping experience of the destination through cultural and wildlife encounters, fi ne dining and top-notch accommodations. A&K also prides itself on sustainable tourism and works closely with local communities to promote conservation e ff orts and support local economies; its philanthropic programs allow travelers to give back to the communities they visit. There is also a plethora of fascinating trips for solo travelers — an area that A&K has been passionate about since its early days. Often, the single supplement fee is heavily discounted or waived and, as A&K has 55 o ffi ces in 30 countries, there is always someone you can connect with should you need. There’s also an escorted tour option where you can explore with a group of up to 18 like-minded solo travelers. THE ONE TO BOOK Due to popular demand, A&K has brought back its Wildlife Safari: Around the World by Private Jet. The 25-day tour is taking place Feb 14-Mar 9, 2024 and traverses the globe aboard a Boeing 757 out fi tted with 48 fi rst-class, fully lie- fl at seats. “Many of our guests share my passion for safaris, which is why this particular private jet journey has become one of our most popular ever,” says Geo ff reyKent. “The chance to circle the globe to explore the most fascinating wildlife destinations is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From encountering species endemic to countries not necessarily known for their wildlife, like Japan’s snow monkeys and the tiny Philippine tarsier, to a spectacular fi nale in the Masai Mara, home to the Big Five.” Cultural excursions abound, too: In Tokyo, explore Tsukiji Fish Market with an expert guide, take a day trip to the seaside city of Kamakura, or relax at the world-class spa. In Uganda, join a member of the local Batwa tribe for a community walk in the village, or meet with teachers at a Nursing School supported by A&K Philanthropy. From $164,950. Contact Victoria Manuel, director, vmanuel@abercrombiekent.com, +1 800 554 7094, abercrombiekent.com