Catherine Heald visits China frequently to scout out new hidden itineraries for clients. |
Luxury Travel Advisor recently visited Catherine Heald, CEO and president of luxury Asian tour operator Remote Lands. Heald spent seven years living in Hong Kong, where she cultivated a passion for Asia. Over the last decade, Remote Lands has worked with a diverse clientele to create travel experiences in both major hubs and hidden gems across Asia.
Heald tells us that Remote Lands has designed a private journey in conjunction with Amanresorts. This October, eight couples will enjoy an 18-day trip, covering destinations in Bhutan, China, India and Sri Lanka. Nice Touch: The trip will be led by Heald. Travelers will visit the Great Wall of China, Beijing’s Forbidden City, Tiger’s Nest in Bhutan and more. They will also take a private cruise on China’s West Lake in Hangzhou and go on a safari, offering the chance to see a Bengal tiger (keep the cameras handy).
During their vacation, travelers will stay in Amanresorts accommodations, including the Aman at Summer Palace, Amanfayun, Amankora Thimpu, Amankora Paro, Amanbagh, Aman-i-Khas, Amangalla and Amanwella. Guests will travel between destinations on a private jet. Good to Know: All price quotes are in U.S. dollars. This trip sold out in six weeks, but a spring trip is also being organized and others are expected to follow.
The majority of Remote Lands’ journeys are client-customized. The company has designed itineraries for families, focusing on cultural immersion. These trips expose children to the local art, cuisine, history, language and religion. Other specialized tours, such as LGBT-friendly excursions, are currently being planned, and a potential trip to Southeast Asia is anticipated for mid-November.
If you don’t know where you want to travel, Heald says that lesser-known destinations are on the rise. Standouts include Burma, with its trending river cruises; Kyushu and Shikoku in Japan; and Borneo and Komodo in Indonesia.