<![CDATA[MATT TRAVEL - Blog]]>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 18:56:22 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[Your Quarterly Inspiration to Travel Beyond]]>Thu, 06 Nov 2025 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.matt.travel/blog/your-quarterly-inspiration-to-travel-beyondOLTRE - An Italian word meaning “Over, Above and Beyond”
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FIRST, WE DINE: DELICIOUS ADVENTURES AROUND THE WORLD.
HERE’S YOUR INBOX INSPIRATION TO TRAVEL BEYOND.

​WHERE TO EAT NEXT
Hot Tables: Our 10 favorite new restaurants this year.​


​TRAINED TO THRILL
A new gilded age of rail travel begins with the relaunch of Orient Express.

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​Waldorf Astoria New York's iconic Peacock Alley bar – Reclaiming its place as a premier cocktail destination for locals and visitors alike.


​Extending the Serenity of Summer: A Season of Wellness at The Peninsula Paris.
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Featured SELECT and CURATED Hotels & Resorts
Secure special rates, benefits and amenities with Matt Travel.

Brenners Park Hotel & Spa, Baden-Baden, Germany
Faena New York, New York City, New York
Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, Santa Monica, California
Four Seasons Bangkok Chao Phraya River, Bangkok, Thailand
​The Peninsula Paris, Paris, France
Waldorf Astoria New York, New York City, New York
The Venice Venice Hotel, Venice, Italy
Le Grand Mazarin, Paris, France
Contact us today to take advantage of this special offer!
Matt Travel
Theteam@matt.travel
 
Travel Better with a Travel Expert!
We're here to ensure your vacation exceeds all expectations.
]]><![CDATA[Life's Best Moments Deserve the Best Setting]]>Fri, 24 Oct 2025 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.matt.travel/blog/lifes-best-moments-deserve-the-best-setting
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From intimate gatherings to grand milestones, villas provide the perfect setting for celebrations of every kind. With privacy, space, and personalized service, you can enjoy unforgettable moments surrounded only by the people who matter most.

Let us match the right villa to the right occasion and make your next gathering unforgettable. 
  • The Perfect Backdrop for Saying "I Do"
    A villa transforms a wedding into a truly private affair. Host ceremonies and receptions in one breathtaking location, with ample room for guests to stay close together and celebrate without distraction.

  • A Home for the Whole Family
    Villas bring generations under one roof. With expansive living areas, private pools, and plenty of room for everyone, they create the perfect setting for reunions filled with quality time and shared experiences that strengthen family bonds.

  • Another Year, Celebrated in Paradise
    Whether it is a milestone birthday or a simple reason to gather, villas provide a festive backdrop to celebrate in style, complete with curated amenities and concierge-arranged surprises.

  • An Intimate Setting for Two
    For couples, villas offer an intimate yet indulgent setting. With private dining, serene views, and bespoke experiences, anniversaries become unforgettable moments of romance and reconnection, while honeymoons are spent in bliss and togetherness.
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  • Together for the Season
    Holidays are best spent together, and villas make it seamless. Spacious accommodations, private kitchens, and gathering spaces allow you to enjoy traditions, meals, and celebrations in comfort and privacy.​
]]><![CDATA[Make This Holiday Count with These Last-Minute Ideas]]>Tue, 07 Oct 2025 00:17:57 GMThttps://www.matt.travel/blog/make-this-holiday-count-with-these-last-minute-ideas
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The pace at which time travels feels so inconsistent. At times it goes too fast and other times too slow, and sometimes, like Goldilocks, it feels just right, but those Goldilocks moments seem the most fleeting of all. They say to live in the moment, but oftentimes it's more comforting to look forward to the future, and other times you'd rather reminisce. So I try to remember the good times and always have something to look forward to, whether it's a nice meal I'm planning, making time for friends & family, or my next adventure somewhere in the world. 

Over the past decade or so, I've learned a few new things. Food tastes better when you smell it, dancing is more fun when you're smiling, and no matter where you are when you're with the people you love, you're home.

Let us help you make new memories with your loved ones, smell and taste new cuisines around the world, and dance with a big, cheesy smile on your face while partying with friends. Let this new upbeat set my friend (DJ Matthew S) shared with me get you in the mood.
TRAVEL INSPIRATION
There's still some space on select trips for the holidays. Contact us right away by emailing us at theteam@matt.travel if you're looking to make this season extra special for your family. Also, consider gifting a trip to your loved ones to create memories together. Plan now, travel later.

We plan your trip as if it were our own. The greatest compliment we can receive is when you refer us to others. Please share this post and introduce us to anyone you know who could use some help planning their next trip.
Cozy Cruising On Europe's Rivers
Ask us about the below itineraries...
  • Christmastime on the Danube
  • Enchanting Rhine Festive Delights
  • Festive Season in the Heart of Germany

Picture storybook towns, festive markets, and warm memories wrapped in Suite Ship luxury. From vineyard vibes to holiday glow, these itineraries are the seasonal sweet spot you are craving. These themed itineraries are an incredible way to see destinations in a different way.

Bonus: Not feeling the water. Consider this Christmas Markets and Castles tour by Land.
A Warm Mele Kalikimaka
  • The Halekulani - Matt's favorite property in Waikiki
  • A private Villa with just your family - We help you find the perfect one for you
  • A cruise with stops in Kauai, Maui, the Big Island, and Oahu. We do the research for you.
Christmas in Hawaii is pure magic—a perfect blend of warm sunshine, swaying palms, and festive aloha spirit. Imagine celebrating the season with ocean breezes and vibrant traditions that fill your heart with joy and peace. It’s more than a holiday; it’s a chance to create unforgettable memories where every moment feels like a gift.
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Caribbean All-Inclusive Getaway
Forget cooking and cleaning. Stay at one of these all-inclusive resorts and have it all taken care of for you while you relax by the pool with a festive cocktail in hand. Celebrate the holidays in a Caribbean all-inclusive resort where every moment is effortless and joyful. Surrounded by turquoise waters and soft sandy beaches, you can truly relax, indulge, and connect with loved ones—making this season stress-free and unforgettable. It’s the perfect way to create warm holiday memories that last a lifetime.
]]><![CDATA[Autumn Escapes]]>Sat, 04 Oct 2025 02:13:09 GMThttps://www.matt.travel/blog/autumn-escapes
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This season, are you searching for something more than a getaway—are you looking for a feeling? Picture golden leaves swirling outside, evenings gathered by a crackling fire, and mornings spent gazing out at snow-dusted peaks. Our curated collection of cozy cabins captures the magic of autumn while delivering the unmatched privacy and comfort of a private villa.
From charming lakeside retreats to spacious mountain estates, these homes create the perfect backdrop for fall travel. And with personalized concierge service included, every detail—from private chefs to curated excursions—can be tailored to your needs.
Alpine Grandeur
Breckenridge, Colorado​
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Up to 7 Bedrooms | Up to 14 Guests

Alpine Grandeur blends the rustic charm of a mountain lodge with refined elegance. Expansive windows frame panoramic alpine views, while wood-beamed interiors and plush furnishings invite your clients to relax fireside after a day outdoors. Perfect for multi-generational families or groups seeking both comfort and adventure.
Mountain Valley Estate
Big Sky, Montana

Up to 5 Bedrooms | Up to 12 Guests
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Nestled in Big Sky, this estate delivers sweeping mountain vistas and cozy lodge-style living. Vaulted ceilings, warm stone fireplaces, and inviting great rooms create a sense of grandeur paired with comfort. Guests can embrace crisp mornings on the deck and evenings gathered around the fire with loved ones.
Harriman Cottage
Sun Valley, Idaho

Up to 5 Bedrooms | Up to 10 Guests

A Sun Valley gem where understated design meets home-like warmth. Guests will enjoy curling up by the fireplace, taking in serene views of surrounding peaks, and unwinding in spaces that feel both refined and intimate. Ideal for travelers looking to pair outdoor adventure with restorative relaxation.
Chuckanut Point Villa
Bellingham, Washington

Up to 3 Bedrooms | Up to 8 Guests

Overlooking the water in Bellingham, this retreat blends coastal calm with cabin coziness. Towering evergreens frame a private haven where your clients can gather by the fire, share meals in a welcoming dining space, and reconnect in a setting that feels worlds away.
Meadowstone Manor
Stowe, Vermont

Up to 14 Bedrooms | Up to 40 Guests

With classic New England charm, this Stowe retreat offers cozy interiors made for autumn travel. Elegant gathering spaces and a glowing fireplace set the stage for evenings together, while sweeping views of rolling hillsides capture the magic of Vermont in fall.
​Bison Lodge
Revelstoke, British Columbia

Up to 6 Bedrooms | Up to 12 Guests

A Revelstoke retreat that combines handcrafted woodwork with five-star amenities. Guests can ski straight to the door, then sink into warmth beside the fire or retreat to the spa-like wellness spaces. Every detail is designed to blend rustic coziness with contemporary luxury.
​Fairway Cabin
Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Up to 4 Bedrooms | Up to 8 Guests

Tucked within Jackson Hole’s grandeur, this cabin offers intimacy and charm. Natural wood finishes, glowing hearths, and inviting bedrooms create the feeling of a true hideaway, while still providing access to adventure just beyond the door.
​Pinetree Paradise
Lake Tahoe, California 

Up to 4 Bedrooms | Up to 10 Guests

A Lake Tahoe escape where alpine coziness meets lakeside serenity. With pine-clad interiors, wide windows overlooking the water, and plenty of gathering spaces, it’s a place where autumn memories are made around the fireplace and out on the trails.
]]><![CDATA[Inspiration and Insights to Help you Travel Better]]>Thu, 02 Oct 2025 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.matt.travel/blog/inspiration-and-insights-to-help-you-travel-better6646681
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Dear Fellow Traveler,
​
Just like a great novel with a twist that lingers in your mind, sometimes the best vacations are the ones with unexpected detours. A spontaneous turn down a charming street can lead to wonderful moments — whether it’s unforgettable sightseeing, delightful shopping, or even just a funny story to share when you get home.

In this fall edition, we invite you to join our storytellers as they wander through some unplanned stops across the Mediterranean, Asia, and beyond—hoping their adventures inspire you to create your own extraordinary journey. From the vibrant street food and bright lights of Bangkok, beautifully captured by Chawadee Nualkhair, to Amy Mutscher’s explorations of the enchanting island of Sardinia, there’s so much to spark your wanderlust.

Wherever your dreams might take you, we’re here to get you there in comfort and style. Matt Travel blends authentic exploration with luxurious amenities and restful accommodations, all customized to your wishes. We hope the stories and places in this issue encourage you to reach out and share your travel ideas with us. With our deep knowledge and global connections, we handle all the details—so you can focus on fully enjoying every moment of your journey.

Wishing you joyful adventures ahead!



​
How to spend a perfect 72 hours
in Minneapolis, MN




Searching for Sardinia​

​


​​Bangkok’s street food scene​



​
​The magic of the Med




​Our guide to Lima, Peru
]]><![CDATA[A Farewell to Summer - Exclusive Offers from Montage Hotels & Resorts]]>Wed, 17 Sep 2025 01:51:16 GMThttps://www.matt.travel/blog/a-farewell-to-summer-exclusive-offers-from-montage-hotels-resorts
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Email TheTeam@matt.travel to secure your reservations and exclusive perks!
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​Los Cabos
A Beachfront Getaway Awaits
As the end of summer nears, the warm Baja sun still shines on the shores of Santa Maria Bay, inviting you to enjoy days by the sea through the summer season and beyond. Reserve your stay with our Discover Baja offer and receive a complimentary fourth night, a daily $70 breakfast credit and round-trip airport transportation.
Healdsburg
Wine Country Memories
Immerse yourself in the beauty of wine country at Montage Healdsburg with peaceful landscapes, views of golden vineyards and refined culinary experiences. Reserve a late-summer stay with our Montage Memories offer and enjoy a daily $60 breakfast credit and complimentary valet parking.
Deer Valley
An Alpine Retreat
Amid crisp mountain air and alpine views, Montage Deer Valley invites you to cherish time with family and friends in an unforgettable destination. Plan ahead with our Advance Purchase offer and receive up to a 20% savings on our best available rate.
Kapalua Bay
An Island Paradise
Whether unwinding at our beachfront paradise or exploring the sights of Maui, Montage Kapalua Bay offers the ideal island escape. With our Discover Kapalua offer, reserve three nights or more and enjoy a daily $150 resort credit and round-trip airport transportation.
Palmetto Bluff
Lowcountry Charm
Embrace the final weeks of summer at Montage Palmetto Bluff, set amid the timeless charm of South Carolina, world-class dining and bespoke experiences designed for all ages. Reserve your coastal getaway with our More Time Away offer and receive up to a 25% savings based on your length of stay.
Laguna Beach
A Culinary Icon
Experience the best of Montage Laguna Beach at our reimagined dining destination, Studio Mediterranean, where panoramic ocean views meet innovative coastal cuisine. With our Culinary Escape offer, enjoy a $300 dining credit, a complimentary view upgrade at check-in (based upon availability), a signature welcome amenity and valet parking.
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Big Sky
Timeless Mountain Moments
Framed by Montana’s majestic peaks and vast forests, Montage Big Sky offers the perfect setting for mountain adventures and moments with loved ones. With our More Time Away offer, extend your stay and receive up to a 25% savings to create more memories with those who matter most.
]]><![CDATA[Free River Cruise Travel Guide]]>Wed, 13 Aug 2025 15:00:00 GMThttps://www.matt.travel/blog/free-river-cruise-travel-guide4445466
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A river cruise ship is essentially a moving luxury hotel. This concise guide provides a great introduction to River Cruising the European waterways. As a certified agent with the major river cruise companies, reach out to me with any of your questions including river cruise options in the US, Asia, Africa, and South America. ​
CLICK HERE FOR YOUR FREE GUIDE
]]><![CDATA[Hot Picks: The Day Tours Everyone’s Booking]]>Wed, 30 Jul 2025 12:30:00 GMThttps://www.matt.travel/blog/hot-picks-the-day-tours-everyones-booking
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Hot Picks: Day Tours Everyone’s Booking

Looking for a little inspiration to elevate your next trip recommendation? These handpicked tours have earned rave reviews from travelers and are fast becoming go-to favorites for the season ahead.
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Whether it’s a spontaneous July 4th weekend getaway or a signature experience that anchors the entire itinerary, these are the tours everyone's talking about — and for good reason.
Amalfi Coast Odyssey: Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello (private from Sorrento)

Cruise the Amalfi Coast in style with panoramic photo ops and a private driver to keep things stress-free and scenic.
Tower of London: Beefeater Opening Ceremony, Guided Tour & Crown Jewels
​
Unlock centuries of royal secrets before the crowds roll in on this early-access Tower of London tour.
Semi-Private Colosseum Tour with Gladiator Arena Floor, Forum and Palatine

Walk in the footsteps of emperors and gladiators on this skip-the-line tour of ancient Rome’s greatest hits.
Pisa and Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence

Wander pastel-hued villages, sample street food by the sea, and snap the must-hvae shot of the Leaning Tower. All with plenty of time to hike, swim, or sip a spritz along the way.
Want to book or learn more? You can reserve any of these tours instantly on our website, or reply to this email for support.
Explore all tours
]]><![CDATA[Yachting vs. Cruising: What's the Difference?]]>Wed, 16 Jul 2025 13:00:00 GMThttps://www.matt.travel/blog/yachting-vs-cruising-whats-the-difference5536741
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Matt sailing on a yacht around Croatia - August 2024
​Love cruising, but considering chartering a private yacht? Here’s what to expect…
On a yacht, you’ll wake up every morning and enjoy breakfast. Not too long after breakfast, you stop somewhere to swim. Your yacht comes with water toys and the captain may even let you jump off the top of the boat if you ask nicely. The day goes by leisurely, and by the time you finish lunch, you’re in a new town. Most include a walking tour in each city so you get the lay of the land before you’re off exploring on your own. 
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On most nights, dinner isn’t included. This means you get to sample the local cuisine, then hit up a nice bar for a drink or go for a night stroll. You can even get a little adventurous some nights and explore what the nightlife has to offer. The yacht typically doesn't embark until after 4am each morning so feel free to make new friends and party until your heart's content. 

In a lot of ways, a yacht experience is the opposite of an ocean cruise..

  • As the big cruise ships are leaving the major ports, you’ll just be arriving.
  • ​Instead of returning for dinner on the ship, you eat dinner in town at a local restaurant.
  • Many ports are too small for cruise ships to visit, but your yacht will fit perfectly
  • ​Instead of staying on board for entertainment, you’ll immerse yourself in local experiences.
  • Many yachts are small with a max capacity of 32 guests. There are even smaller options to fit your group size if you prefer. Ask Matt Travel, and we’ll find the perfect yacht for you.

You might be a yachter if you...

  • Seek a high level of service
  • Want more control over the itinerary
  • Prefer small private group experiences
  • Like custom designed excursions that start when the mass cruises depart
  • Enjoy elevated cuisine onboard with local cuisine options on land
  • Love to sample the nightlife
  • Require sleeping in while vacationing
So why not yacht!?! Reach out with all of your questions about what it's like to yacht and the Matt Travel team will help you determine if it's the right experience for you. Click here for an infographic you can share with your friends.
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Traveling by yacht may be more attainable than you think. Ask us about private yacht charters. There are also public options for couples or small groups to join others and make new friends. You can yacht almost anywhere in the world. Here are the top three destinations for yacht enthusiasts.
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Greek Island Hopper
Yachting in Croatia is like stepping into a postcard, with crystal-clear waters shimmering beneath your bow and picture-perfect islands dotting the horizon. Each day unfolds a new adventure, from exploring hidden coves to mingling with locals in charming seaside towns. Your days are filled with sun-soaked lounging, spontaneous swims, and breathtaking sunsets. It’s the ultimate blend of relaxation and discovery, where every moment feels like a dream.
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​Croatia Coastal Cruise
Yachting in Croatia is like stepping into a postcard, with crystal-clear waters shimmering beneath your bow and picture-perfect islands dotting the horizon. Each day unfolds a new adventure, from exploring hidden coves to mingling with locals in charming seaside towns. Your days are filled with sun-soaked lounging, spontaneous swims, and breathtaking sunsets. It’s the ultimate blend of relaxation and discovery, where every moment feels like a dream.
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Caribbean Dream
Yachting in the Caribbean is a paradise realized, where every wake leads you to a new slice of tropical heaven. Imagine drifting through aquamarine waters, discovering unspoiled beaches fringed with swaying palm trees and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Each island tells its own story. Your evenings are spent under a canopy of stars, with the gentle lapping of waves and the distant melodies of island music setting the perfect backdrop. It’s a voyage of endless sunshine and boundless adventure, where every day feels like a celebration of paradise.​​

​If not now, when?​
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Matt Wahlgren
ADVISOR / aGENCY OWNER
I work with both new and experienced travelers in order to provide them with an unforgettable experience
]]><![CDATA[Cheers to Châteaus: Holiday Villas That Sparkle]]>Sat, 05 Jul 2025 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.matt.travel/blog/cheers-to-chateaus-holiday-villas-that-sparkle
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The holidays may feel far away, but trust me — the best villas won’t be around for long. From the turquoise waters of Barbados and Riviera Maya to the peaceful, snow-covered charm of Colorado, these seasonal escapes tend to book fast… and for good reason.

Whether you're dreaming of sun or snow, I’ll help you find the perfect home-away-from-home to celebrate in style. Think private chefs, breathtaking views, and all the comfort and privacy you deserve.

I’ll handle the details, you enjoy the holidays. Simple as that.

Let’s get your ideal villa locked in before the calendar fills up.
​
Call or message me when you're ready.
 (408) 718-4872

​TheTeam@matt.travel

​Festive Villas Now Open for Booking

Hacienda Jaguar
​Puerto Aventuras, Riviera Maya

Up to 12 Bedrooms | Up to 26 Guests

Available for Christmas & New Year's.

+ Earn an additional $5,000 bonus commission for reserving your client's stay during New Year's.

​Tortuga C33
​Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Up to 4 Bedrooms | Up to 10 Guests

Available for Thanksgiving, Christmas, & New Year's.

​Marsh Mellow​
St. James, Barbados
Up to 4 Bedrooms | Up to 8 Guests

Available for Thanksgiving, Christmas, & New Year's.
Navigator Lodge​
Beaver Creek, Colorado
Up to 5 Bedrooms | Up to 12 Guests

Available for Thanksgiving, Christmas, & New Year's.

Iconic Destinations Where Holiday Dreams Begin

​Papala Place | The Big Island

Hawaii
​430+ Villas
Kauai • Maui • The Big Island • & more
The Catch | Providenciales

​Turks & Caicos
220+ Villas
Ambergris Cay • Providenciales • South Caicos Island • & more
Dorata | The Amalfi Coast
​
Italy​
285+ Villas
Amalfi Coast • Sicily • Tuscany • & more
Avanti | St. Martin (French)

​St. Martin
175+ Villas 
Siint Maarten • St. Martin (French) • Terres Basses • & more
Don’t wait until it’s too late — the most magical villas go first. Book your dream holiday getaway today.
​Let’s make this festive season unforgettable.
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