Luxwing

logo text white

Top 10 Cities to Visit in 2017

Luxwing want to give you the best traveling experience possible, by giving you the opportunity to visit as many new places as possible in 2017. We’ve currently flown to 50 destinations worldwide, but are always looking to expand our reach, from Europe’s Capital of Culture 2017 to the host of football tournaments. Take a look below at the hottest destinations from across the world this year.

10. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has to be one of the most underrated cities in Europe. It’s got culture, year round sun, beautiful beaches and some of the most amazing cuisine in Europe, yet only recently is it starting to gain notoriety for its beauty. What this discreetness does mean however, is that it is fantastically authentic and your money will go even further.

9. Medellìn, Colombia

Once known as a paradise for criminals and drug kingpins, Medellìn has managed to achieve one of the biggest reputation U-turns, and is now a prime holiday spot. There are plenty of bars, clubs, restaurants and some of the best Coffee in the world, and with consistently hot temperatures, it’s a definite must if you fancy visiting Colombia.

8. Seoul, South Korea

Seoul is a beautifully futuristic yet green capital city, thanks to projects like Cheonggyecheon, which, after a $900 million investment, in 2005 converted an old motorway into a public park and the waterway it once was. This year, the city plans to unveil a similar project on an old highway. The 17m high overpass is 938m long and will be filled with plants and trees known as the Soul Skygarden.

7. Montreal, Canada

Canada is celebrating their 150th year of independence this year, so what a better time to visit. The country has it all – If you’re looking for open spaces and nature the Canadian Rockies or British Columbia are beautiful year round. However, if you want to enjoy the city life, Montreal has really stepped its game up in the past few years. The city is full of bars and clubs, with one of the hottest music scenes in the world. Be prepared for all-nighters and award winning food.

6. Copenhagen, Denmark

In the last few years, Copenhagen has fought its way into the big leagues in terms of food, thanks mainly to René Redzepi’s Noma. The city is now however scattered with world class restaurants as well as striking architecture and design. For these reasons it’s no surprise that the city was awarded the European Capital of Culture 2017.

5. Bordeux, France

Wine lovers rejoice, the picturesque city of Bordeaux is on track to open the new LGV Sud-Ouest, high speed train line later this year and we couldn’t be happier. The line will allow you to get from Paris to Bordeaux in under 2 hours which is sure to further increase the selection of high-class hotels, eateries, bars and clubs which Bordeux is famous for. Be sure to check out the newly opened Citè du Vin during your trip to learn all about the regions rich history in wine.

4. Hossa, Finland

Finland is another beautifully adaptive country, whether you’re after the cosmopolitan environment of Helsinki or the winter wonderland that is Lapland the country offers a little bit of everything. To add to its offerings This year marks the opening of Hossa National park for those of you who want a cub scout kind of holiday. There is bear watching, hiking and ancient rock art, as well as kayaking and foraging to name but a few things.

3. Antwerp, Belgium

Thanks to a city which has been flocked with creatives, Antwerp is now blooming with trendy cafes, art pop-ups, boutiques and a crazy nightlife. The city is also very big into fashion, and although not quite as popular as its bigger sibling – Brussels, Antwerp is in the running to take the title of the countries culture capital.

2. Portland, USA

Although not as well-known as Los Angeles or San Francisco, Portland is becoming one of USA’s hottest and coolest destinations. Its ethical, friendly and surrounded with rich mountain tops to hike. If beer and street food is your thing, then that’s another reason to plan a trip. The city has at least 30 unique tasting breweries, and hundreds of themed food carts where innovative chefs will blow your taste buds away with the best foods from around the world.

1. Moscow, Russia

The ultra-modern capital is preparing to host two huge football tournaments– the 2017 Confederations Cup this year and of course the World Cup in 2018. Don’t be put off by political tensions, the Russians are generally friendly and make great drinking buddies. Apart from this, the capital of Russia is filled with beautiful squares and palaces, and the history that precedes them is equally as fascinating.

Whenever and wherever you want to go in 2017, we want to help make that dream a reality. Call, email or chat live with us now to arrange your chartered jet along with the rest of your trip, and make 2017 the year to visit a top, new location in luxury.

Our Top 6 Tips for Flying Private in Total Comfort

 

Whether it’s your first experience flying in a private jet, or you’re an experienced flyer looking to make the most out of your journeys, it’s important to make sure you’re taking full advantage of the benefits that private aviation has over commercial flights. At Luxwing, we want to make sure you have the best experience possible, and we’ll do whatever we can to make that happen. But sometimes, it’s about what you can do to make the most of the situation, so here are our top 6 tips to get maximum enjoyment out of your flights.

1. Let the pilots know when you are on the way

One of the biggest benefits of flying private is flexibility. Within reason, you can usually change the times and even dates to work around your schedule. Something which is impossible when flying commercial. A quick tip however to ensure the fastest take off and least waiting time possible is to call the flight crew when you are on your way to the airport. This will give the pilot time to coordinate the take off with Air Traffic Control, so that you can get in the air as soon as you arrive.

2. Flying with pets

Flying private allows the comfort of easily taking your pets into the cabin with you for the entire journey, keeping them (and you) comfortable and relaxed. You must, however still make sure that the correct paperwork and documentation for your animal has been completed, prior to arriving. It’s usually not a problem, and Luxwing can help with this, but failing to do so can result in large fines and in some cases, even animals being put down. In 2016 there was a huge issue when Johnny Depp and Amber Heard tried to take their dogs into Australia, where the maximum penalty is up to 10-years in prison.

3. Sit on the right

If you want to get the best views during your flight, we recommend sitting on the right side of the plane. The pilot will always sit on the left, so the right hand side usually facilitates the widest, most dramatic views. Of course, your welcome to move around during the flight whenever you please as well.

4. Request anything you need

This is your flight, all of the crew on board are there for you and will assist you however best they can. This is one of the biggest benefits of flying private rather than commercial, and we want to make the experience as unique as possible. So if you need anything mid-flight, just ask, and if your requests will take a bit of planning, make sure to give us some notice so we can prepare everything before your departure. The only thing we ask is to wait until the plane is air bound and level before speaking to our pilots. They are there for you, but during take-off and landing they’ll need to concentrate on flying the plane.

5. Help yourself

Pillows, blankets, food and drinks. Everything on board your jet when you embark is there for you, so you shouldn’t be embarrassed to help yourself. If you can’t find something you want, ask, but if you see it – Take it.

6. Ask for advice and assistance for your destination

If you’re traveling somewhere new, make sure to ask for advice on what to do and where to stay. Not only will our team give you the best information about your destination, but we can also help booking and scheduling your trip. Anything from transfers to accommodation.

Finally, we’re here to help from beginning to end. If you have any questions give us a call 24 hours a day on +44 77 000 59949, or use the live chat feature on our website and we’ll help you personalise your journey to match your exact needs.

Check out our Top 5 Airport Lounges in the World

TOP 5 AIRPORT LOUNGES IN THE WORLD FB

Airports, for most people, are a thing of general discomfort and stress, which is partially why we are finding more and more people deciding to travel private, to avoid the ever growing list of problems around security, check in, and navigating huge terminals. However, we know that sometimes commercial jets are still the only option, and we are here with some advice on how to make those journeys as pain free, if not enjoyable as possible.

Therefore, we have compiled a list of the Top 5 best airport lounges in the world, which include everything from spas and bars to hairdressers and cars.

5. Thai Airways Royal First lounge and Royal Orchid Spa, Bangkok

blog pic 1 

The royal first lounge and spa is the largest lounge in the Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport, and although only ranked at number 5 on our list it offers a great preflight experience from beginning to end.

The lounge has a capacity of 134 people with 2 VIP rooms, 6 private corners and a 22 seat a-la-carte dining room serving a range of Thai food. There are also several private rooms available to take a nap or showering, and once you have checked in at the first-class check-in, you are taken via golf kart to the lounge.

What really makes the Thai Airways lounge stand out is the spa, where first class passengers receive a complementary one-hour full body treatment and business class passengers can choose between a half hour neck and shoulder or foot massage. The spa also has other facilities to make use of including steam rooms and saunas.

4. Lufthansa First Class Terminal, Frankfurt

blog pic 2

The Lufthansa first class terminal in Frankfurt airport is pretty special. Firstly, you may be wondering how you get from the first class terminal to your flight, and they’ve really made the experience unique. Taking a lift down from the lounge, you will arrive in a garage, where you will be collected by a driver in a Porsche or Mercedes who’ll drive you over the tarmac, straight to your plane doors.

On top of this VIP lounge-to-plane experience, the lounge offers a cigar lounge and bar as well as a restaurant, showers and a sleeping area. They’ll even return your rental car for you so you don’t have to lift a finger during your travel.

3. Qantas First lounge, Sydney

blog 3pic

This lounge has all your regular amenities but what makes it stand out from the rest is its design. The lounge contains 8,400 plants throughout in a ‘vertical garden’ arrangement, helping to bring a little bit of tranquility to your travels. If that’s not enough, Qantas also offer complementary spa treatments to its guests and of course private seating areas, restaurant style dining and a bar.

2. Qatar Airways Al Mourjan Business Class,  Doha, Qatar

blog pic4

The main feature of Qatar Airways Al Mourjan lounge in Doha is the design. This beautiful, minimalist lounge is filled with art and high ceilings, the picture above is of the staircase leading up to the dining area which spirals around a beautiful water feature and pond. All of this provides a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, and the dividers throughout the lounge provide a spacious yet private feeling.

The restaurant serves made to order sandwiches 24/7, as well as a buffet and an a-la-carte menu. The lounge also has a games room which includes several games consoles, retro arcade machines, table football and even a Formula 1 simulator!

1. Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, London Heathrow

blog pic5

The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse in London Heathrow is at the top of our list because it offers premium flyers, everything they could ever envision needing before a flight. Besides from its modern and stylish design, this lounge is able to provide plenty of hours of enjoyment, relaxation or space for work depending on what you need.

One of the biggest standout features is the salon where guests can get a quick haircut before boarding their flight. There is also a spa and shoe cleaners to keep you looking and feeling fresh before your flight. The lounge boasts a few other stand out features like a games room, hosting a pool table and several video games, as well as a multi-screen cinema where you can watch a range of TV programs and sporting events. There is of course a large restaurant with table service or a deli buffet depending on what you want for lunch. In the center of the club house is a huge champagne and cocktail bar serving a range of classic and modern cocktails to all its guests.

Do you agree with our list? Keep checking back here for more premium travel articles and stories.

Find out what’s on this January!

whats-on-this-month

It’s January, and it’s finally time to get back to work after enjoying the relaxing holidays and to start implementing those New Year’s resolutions. One thing at the top of our new year’s resolution list every year is to do more, and if you’ve got the same outlook, then we want to help you make this the best year yet. Get a jump start on the new year with our recommendations of some of the best events from around the world. From sports to fashion and everything in-between here is our rundown of the best events happening this January.

Sports

There is plenty of snow on the mountains and so plenty of winter sporting events for you to enjoy. If you don’t enjoy the cold, don’t fear, there are plenty of other events too.

January 5th

  • Four Hills Tournament – held in Bischofshofen, Austria – 2-day event finishing on the 6th of January.

January 12th

  • Licorum Bank Snow Polo World Cup – held in Kitzbuhel, Austria – 4 day events finishing on the 15th January

January 13th

  • Fridge Festival – Held in Obertauern, Austria – 3-day event finishing on the 15th January

January 15th

  • Sitges Half Marathon 2017 – Held in Stiges, Spain

January 19th

  • Dolomitenlauf – Held in Lienz, Austria – 3 day event finishing on the 21st of January
  • Six Day Berlin 2017 – Berlin, Germany – 6-day event finishing on the 24th January
  • Inferno-Combination Giant Slalom – Held in Mürren, Switzerland

January 26th

  • Reykjavik International Games – held in Reykjavik, Iceland – 11-day event finishing 5th February

January 27th

  • 2017 Mediterranean Fencing Championships – held in Marseille, France – 3 day event finishing on the 29th January
  • FIL World Luge Championships 2017 – Held in Innsbruck, Austria – 3 day event finishing on the 29th of January

January 29th

  • Prix d’Amérique Horse Race – held in Paris, France

 

Shows and Fairs

If you have a hobby or passion which you want to explore a little more this year, why not attend a fair and see what the world’s best have to offer. Whether that’s motors or boats, we’ve got you covered.

January 6th

  • The London International Boat Show – Held in London, England – 10-day event finishing on the 15th January

January 13th

  • Expo Creative Luxembourg – Held in Luxembourg City, Luxembourg – 3-day event finishing on the 15th January

January 14th

  • Salon Auto/Moto – European Motor Show – held in Brussels, Belgium – 9-day event finishing on the 22nd January

January 19th

  • 41st Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival – Held in Monte-Carlo, Monaco
  • Boot-Düsseldorf – International Boat Show – Held in Düsseldorf, Germany – 9-day event finishing on the 29th January

 

Music Festival

If you’re after a more upbeat start to the year, how about checking out one of these music festivals. You can dance, sing or just relax and enjoy some of the best in international music.

January 11th

  • Eurosonic Noorderslag – Held in Groningen, Holland – 4-day event finishing on the 14th January

January 20th

  • Music for Galway: Midwinter Festival 2017- Held in Galway, Ireland – 3-day event finishing on the 22nd January

 

Fashion Events

It’s the perfect time to check out the up and coming trends of 2017 by visiting some of the biggest fashion events around the world. From Paris to Milan to London. We can help get you anywhere.

January 5th

  • Milan Moda Main – held in Milan, Italy – 5-day event finishing on the 9th January

January 6th

  • London Fashion Week, Fall/Winter (Men’s) – Held in London, England – 4-day event finishing on the 9th January

January 10th

  • Florence Pitti Moda Uomo – Held in Florence, Italy – 4-day event finishing on the 13th January

January 14th

  • Milan Moda Uomo – Held in Milan, Italy – 4-day event finishing on the 17th January

January 17th

  • Berlin Fashion Week – Held in Berlin, Germany – 3-day event finishing on the 19th January

January 18th

  • Paris Fashion Week (Men’s) – Held in Paris, France – 5-day event finishing on the 22nd January

January 22nd

  • Haute Couture – Held in Paris, France – 5-day event finishing on the 26th January

 

Film Festivals

A week of glitz and glamour is what to expect if you attend any of these – Check out some of this year’s biggest up and coming indie films and then party with the stars at these incredible film festivals around the world.

January 12th

  • British Shorts Film Festival – Held in Berlin, Germany – 5-day event finishing on the 16th January

January 23rd

  • DocPoint – Helsinki Documentary Film Festival 2017 – Held in Helsinki, Finland – 6-day event finishing on the 29th January

January 25th

  • International Film Festival – Held in Rotterdam, Holland – 12-day event finishing on the 5th February

 

Business

Set yourself up for the best 2017 possible and sign up to a business conference this January. We can get you there and back quickly and stylishly so that you always look, and feel your best at any business event.

January 17th

  • World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2017 – Held in Davos, Switzerland – 4-day event finishing on the 20th January

 

Anything you fancy? Give us a call and we will help arrange every aspect of your trip and then help get you there and back before they know your missing. And as always, if there’s an event you’ve been waiting for that you don’t see on this list, we will make it work! Just give us a call, email or use the live chat function on our website.