Brunching with the Best: Luxury Travel with Index Select in Philadelphia
In the travel world, there’s nothing like sitting down over a long, delicious brunch with fellow industry tastemakers to spark inspiration. That’s exactly what happened recently when I had the pleasure of connecting with some of the most exclusive luxury travel partners during a cozy gathering in Philadelphia with Index Select’s coveted collection.
From private islands in the Caribbean to curated villas in Portugal and immersive DMCs around the globe, these partners represent the gold standard in luxury travel. The common thread is that as a travel advisor, I have the ear of the top decision makers and access to gain for you.
What are DMCs? It’s short for Destination Management Companies. We work with a select group of them based on the client and the place. Since we can’t be everywhere for every client on the road, these folks are our boots on the ground and extension of me as well as the service.
Here’s a glimpse of who was at the table—and get to know why I work with these partners when we start to discuss your trips — many are exclusively travel agent partners:
🇮🇹 Access Italy – Your Italian Insider Connection
A family-run DMC with ties to VIPs and A-listers alike (yes, they’ve worked with the Obamas!), Access Italy offers travelers ultra-personalized, behind-the-scenes experiences throughout Italy. Think private after-hours tours of the Vatican, cooking classes in Roman homes, and meet-the-artisan moments that reveal the true soul of the country. If you want to explore Italy like a local—with access only insiders have—this is your go-to.
🌴 ÀNI Private Resorts – Ultra-Exclusive Buyouts from Anguilla to Sri Lanka
With just four properties in the world—Dominican Republic, Anguilla, Thailand, and Sri Lanka—ÀNI redefines what it means to travel with privacy and purpose. Each resort is designed for full buyout only, accommodating multi-generational families or groups of friends with full staff, gourmet dining, private pools, wellness programming, and more. It’s the kind of place where everything is thought of, and nothing is too much.
🏝️ Cheval Blanc St-Barth – Caribbean Glamour at Its Finest
A jewel in the LVMH portfolio, Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France is the epitome of French Riviera flair meets Caribbean ease. Set on the pristine sands of Flamands Beach, the hotel is all about barefoot luxury, exceptional gastronomy, and elevated design. Perfect for those who want St-Barths sophistication with the warmth of personalized service.
🌊 Hummingbird Travel – Your Caribbean & Indian Ocean Experts
Specializing in tailor-made journeys to the Caribbean and Indian Ocean, Hummingbird Travel is a top-tier DMC with deep relationships across the region. Whether it’s a dreamy honeymoon in the Maldives, a private island escape in the Seychelles, or a luxury resort in St. Lucia, they craft unforgettable moments with seamless planning.
🇵🇹 Pa.te.os – Architectural Villas in Portugal’s Wine Country
Four striking villas in Portugal’s Alentejo region make up Pa.te.os, a serene escape for design lovers, couples, and families alike. The architecture is minimalist and modern, yet warm and inviting—perfectly positioned to explore the region’s wine estates, olive groves, and cultural heritage. A peaceful retreat that feels worlds away, yet offers a deep connection to place. You can take one villa or privatize the whole property for your group.
🇳🇿 Touch of Spice – Curated Luxury in New Zealand, Australia & Fiji
From luxury home rentals and yacht charters to custom journeys across the South Pacific, Touch of Spice is a DMC that curates once-in-a-lifetime adventures. Whether you're chasing heli-skiing in Queenstown or sipping wine in Margaret River, their team makes the impossible happen with effortless style and local know-how. These experts are perfectly paired with incredible properties like Antipodal works with dotting across the far reaches of Australia and New Zealand.
Meeting with these partners reinforced why trusted local connections are the cornerstone of extraordinary travel. As a travel advisor, I love working hand-in-hand with experts who not only know their destinations inside and out—but who also go above and beyond for my clients.
If any of these destinations are calling your name, let’s dream it up together. I’m here to match you with the right place, people, and experience to make your next adventure unforgettable.
