Highlights from Our 2023 Indagare Journeys

In 2023, travelers on our Indagare Journeys explored more than 40 destinations around the globe, pursuing personal passions together in small groups of like-minded travelers with our expert guides. Our specialist hosts and our on-the-ground networks opened doors and revealed insider perspectives, providing connection and inspiration. From a deep dive on slow food in Puglia with top chef Ryan Hardy to experiencing the markets and monuments of Rajasthan with Love India's Fiona Caulfield or Istanbul with Serena Crawford to discovering wonders big and small in Egypt and Namibia, these small-group luxury trips allowed for rich cultural exploration. They also provided exclusive, behind-the-scenes access to ateliers in Paris and Milan on our fashion-focused journeys, dinners and visits to the private homes of interior designers featured in Architectural Digest in Tangier and Mexico City and learning about art and history in Spain.

Read on for some of our favorite trips from 2023, and what dozens of travelers on our Indagare Journeys had to say about their experiences.

Click here to view all of our upcoming Indagare Journeys.

• Explored the most interesting and iconic homes designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Luis Barragán, including viewings of spaces that are closed to the public, with an expert guide and your hosts Indagare VP of Sales Elise Bronzo and AD Editor-in-Chief Amy Astley.
• Met Mexico City’s leading designers, curators and local insiders through private apartment and studio visits and meals at top tables—including the enchanting private residence of AD100 designer Rodman Primack (the founder of the design firm RP Miller and former chief creative officer of Design Miami).
• Enjoyed curator- and artist-led visits of top contemporary art galleries, collectives and studios in Mexico City.
• Discovered Mexico’s indigenous heritage with private, after-hours visits to the National Anthropology Museum.

Testimonials from Our Travelers:

"Incredible opportunity—so well curated. Elise is simply lovely, she is so personal and educated. It made the trip so special to have her lead us with her smile and grace."

"A perfect mix of history and edgy design."

"AMAZING! Elise is phenomenal and Amy Astley was a knowledgeable and wonderful presence."

"The trip fulfilled exactly what it promised."

• Discovered hidden-gem boutiques in Antigua with a shopping insider. Plus: A special visit to Luna Zorro Studio, a top textile destination that works closely with local weavers to preserve Guatemalan traditions.
• Enjoyed a visit to Chichicastenango, an enchanting town in the mountains, to experience a Maya ceremony and visited its famous market—one of the largest and liveliest in the Americas and a haven for shoppers seeking handmade crafts.
• Immersion in Guatemalan culture by connecting with local artisans and insiders in Antigua and beyond—including San Juan La Laguna, the top village for traditional textiles, and Santa Catarina Palopó to learn about an initiative that is transforming the lives of residents through art.

Testimonials from Our Travelers:

"I enjoyed Guatemala and was happy with the rich culture, food and positivity towards visitors. The people are friendly and proud of their country."

"Wonderful group, the destination was amazing."

Related: Fill out our preview access form and be the first to know when a new itinerary for Guatemala is released.

• Enjoyed exclusive invitations to receptions at dazzling private residences featured in the pages of Architectural Digest, such as the extraordinary restoration of the former hacienda of AD100 designer Michelle Nussbaumer, with its rich layers of history and influences from around the globe.
• Experienced an expertly curated immersion into the beauty of this charming town through guided tours focused on architecture, history, modern and contemporary art, design and markets.
• Discovered the unique flavors and traditions of Sanmiguelense cuisine and spirits with cooking classes and tastings.

Testimonials from Our Travelers:

"A complete delight! I loved meeting all of our fellow travelers and I felt so lucky to have access to so many special, private spots that I otherwise would never have seen. I was so inspired by the experience."

"This was a beautiful town. The houses were overall lovely and the cooking demo was fantastic."

"I loved the variety of activities that we did—both historical and cultural mixed with shopping."

"I had a wonderful time. The organization was fantastic, the hotel was beautiful and I loved the access to all the beautiful private homes."

"Very well curated—the venues were outstanding, very organized and personal."

• Explored with experts in the field of Egyptology at such monuments as the Sphinx and the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza.
• Sailed down the magnificent Nile River on board the luxurious Historia yacht.
• Experienced expert-guided touring at the astounding temples and tombs of the Valley of the Kings, Abu Simbel, Aswan, Philae, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Luxor.

Testimonials from Our Travelers:

"It was a fantastic journey filled with so many incredible sites and iconic memories."

"Cairo is essential because of the pyramids, Sphinx and museum, but the best part was Luxor—getting out of the city. The cruise and everything we saw along the way was excellent. Our guides were terrific and John was our fearless leader; they really took care of us!"

"What a fabulous trip we all experienced. I have literally dreamed of traveling to Egypt since I was a young girl, and John, along with the Indagare staff, helped that dream become a reality. Every day was an adventure and every adventure a rich experience on so many levels."

Related: Want to experience Egypt for yourself? Join one of our two Indagare Journeys to Egypt, October and December 2024.

• Enjoyed architecture- and history-focused touring with expert guides in the famous pink-walled medina of Marrakech, a true feast for the senses, and more.
• Explored the former retreat of Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé in the famous Majorelle Garden, a masterpiece of botanical design—and one of Marrakech’s most beautiful and significant landmarks. Toured the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, which traces the life and work of the designer and celebrates his connection to Marrakech.
• Immersion in the culture of Morocco with shopping in the souks, a tagine cooking class and an excursion into the Desert d’Agafay for a camel trek and a Berber feast.

Testimonials from Our Travelers:

"We love how the trip hits many highlights and must-see attractions."

"Our guide was one of the best parts of the trip. His local knowledge, ability to adapt to the groups needs and overall service were excellent."

"Luxurious, immersive and well-planned. I felt safe."

Related: Experience Magical Morocco on our October Indagare Journey.

• Discovered masterpieces of Spanish art, architecture and culture on special tours led by expert guide Page Knox in Madrid, Córdoba, Granada and Sevilla.
• Entered the Prado Museum before it opens to the public for a tour with one of the museum curators.
• Explored UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Córdoba’s impressive Mosque-Cathedral and Sevilla’s enchanting Alcázar Palace, and enjoyed privileged entrance into top foundations and private homes, including the Norman Foster Foundation.

Testimonials from Our Travelers:

"Page was fabulous. She made the entire trip so worthwhile, educational and fun. Her relationship with the other guides and their combined knowledge was super! She was definitely the most stylish guide we’ve ever had!"

"I thought the trip to Spain was exceptional in many ways. The planning and execution, down to the very last minute, was wonderful, and the insider experiences were spectacular. Two in particular: Seeing the Alhambra both in daylight and in the evening light, and dinner on the last evening at the Palacio de las Dueñas—a beautiful way to close out a very special trip. I appreciated the attention to detail and the unique insider experiences that Indagare provided on this trip."

"Page, as always, provided a wealth of information on the history of the region, the museums and cultural sites we visited—and, of course, the art."

Related: Join Page May 1-5 in Paris on our Indagare Insider Journey "Celebrating French Impressionism," where you will have an after-hours tour of "Paris 1874: Inventing Impressionism" followed by a special gala dinner at the Musée d’Orsay.

• Experienced Slovenia’s many natural treasures—from the aquamarine Lake Bled and otherworldly, UNESCO-protected Škocjan Caves in the Karst region to the astoundingly beautiful Soča Valley.
• Hiked, foraged, cooked and tasted with two of Slovenia’s most important culinary figures: Ana Roš (2017’s World’s Best Female Chef) and zero-waste pioneer Bine Volcic.
• Explored the capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana, a lovable city that is one of the hippest and greenest in Europe.

Testimonials from Our Travelers:

"The guide who accompanied us everywhere was EXCELLENT, as were his colleagues. They clearly love their country, are well-informed as to its history, politics, food and terrain, and are also very well-connected with interesting people all over the country. As an example, the small restaurant where we had lunch on the way to Hisa Franko was probably our favorite meal—because of the guide's connections, the owners opened and cooked only for us. The meal was very special with their company and we would have never found that spot on our own."

"We loved the opportunity to meet U.S. Ambassador Jamie Harpootlian and visit her home in Ljubljana. This was one of our favorite things! Thanks to Indagare for arranging such a special and unexpected pleasure."

Related: Experience this destination for yourself on our Indagare Journey to Slovenia & Croatia, September 21-27.

• Experienced the Camino de Santiago, a holy grail for travelers, the Indagare way with spiritual guide, author and Omega Institute founder Elizabeth Lesser, along with support from the best guides and private car transport on the ground, from start to finish.
• Walked the historic Camino de Santiago pilgrimage to reach the sacred Spanish city of Santiago de Compostela, crossing Roman roads with centuries of stories behind them as expert guides shared their knowledge about the history and importance of this route. Participants received stamps for their Pilgrim’s Passport certificate (rewarded to those who walk over 100 kilometers) and found connection as "mindful walkers." Lesser offered intentions for the group each day and shared Thich Nhat Hanh's principles of walking meditation: " Each mindful breath, each mindful step, reminds us that we are alive on this beautiful planet," Lesser quoted from the Vietnamese Buddhist monk. "We don't need anything else. It is wonderful just to be alive, to breathe in, and to make one step. We have arrived at where real life is available—the present moment."

Testimonials from Our Travelers:

"I can't begin to put into words (although I have tried) how magical and wonderful this trip was for me. The takeaway for me from this trip is that there is room for me (at age 65) to become MORE."

"I really enjoyed it and hope to do a different section each year. The group was great and the right size."

"It was the best way to walk the Camino—spiritual and challenging, and in good company."

Related: Indagare founder Melissa Biggs Bradley shares eight key learnings from hosting our first Camino journey in 2023—and discover more inspiration in her essay “Walking the Camino: The Way of the Traveler.”

• Witnessed and participated in Project ReWild Zambezi’s relocation efforts—a once-in-a-lifetime experience—in the company of exceptional safari experts from Great Plains Conservation and Melissa Biggs Bradley.
• Enjoyed daily explorations by vehicle, canoe, boat and on foot, with expert guides that revealed magnificent creatures like big cats, rhinos, hippos, elephants, giraffes and more—all in spectacular private concessions.
• Relaxed at three beautiful lodges that offer a variety of immersive wilderness and cultural activities—including guided tracking, stargazing, birding, river cruises andhelicopter touring.

Testimonials from Our Travelers:

"The trip was exciting and fun, filled with the wonder of nature and great people."

"An incredible experience that I will remember forever."

Related: Read Indagare founder Melissa Biggs Bradley's "Zimbabwe Recap: A Once-In-A-Lifetime Rewilding Experience," and click here to be the first to know when new safari itineraries are released.

• Gained exclusive access to the Emilio Pucci Heritage and explored the archives of the iconic Florentine brand followed by a private lunch at Palazzo Pucci. The group also visited multiple private palazzos and art collections with their owners.
• Joined an acclaimed art historian on a walking tour of central Florence to discover the unique architecture and history of the city.
• Experienced opera arias and ensemble pieces performed by four of the Fondazione Mascarade Opera’s emerging artists, followed by a private farewell dinner in the state rooms of the Palazzo Corsini al Prato.

Testimonials from Our Travelers:

"I've been on Cloud Nine since returning from Italy. Every aspect of the journey was perfect in my mind."

"The Indagare Insider Journey was incredible and has left us somewhat speechless—we are still in awe and processing all the wonderment of our time in Florence."

"I loved the combination of visiting museums, exploring private home collections and dining at private homes while also visiting galleries and experiencing various events. It was a truly unique and captivating experience."

"I liked the combination of art/architecture history tours and visits to ateliers, the Pucci family estates and dining in exquisitely beautiful surroundings! Of course, the chance to meet Laudomia Pucci was a huge draw. She was lovely, gracious and a joy to talk to. I also loved the emphasis on supporting growth of arts in young people. This was a perfect trip."

Related: Join Indagare founder Melissa Biggs Bradley as she returns to Florence for another Indagare Journey this November 3-8, 2024.

• Embarked on a journey through Pugliese gastronomy, hosted by celebri-chef Ryan Hardy and his wife, Agatha Capacchione, with expert-guided tours focused on the region’s emblematic products.
• Explored Puglia’s world-renowned Frantoio De Carlo olive oil producer, one of Ryan Hardy’s favorite local suppliers. Met the family members, learned about the harvest and tasted some of the highest quality olive oil varieties.
• Engaged in a private farmhouse cooking experience with Ryan Hardy. Joined by local chefs, Ryan created a spectacular menu highlighting the freshest season ingredients—many of which cannot be found elsewhere.

Testimonials from Our Travelers:

"We loved being with Ryan and Agatha! There were so many fun elements of this trip, driving the cars, cooking classes, hiking to the ancient church. The food was outstanding and the insider experiences also."

"Ryan was so knowledgeable about the region. He brought personal insight into many venue visits, and he spoke beautifully about the culture and traditions in Puglia."

"Having Ryan and Agatha as our hosts to bring us to their favorite restaurants, wineries and suppliers made this such a personal experience! We would have never found these places ourselves. During this entire trip, and really anytime we participate in an Indagare Insider Journey, I comment to my husband almost every night, 'there is no way we would have been able to have this experience any other way.'"

Related: Upon return from the trip, Ryan shares where to eat, stay, shop and what to do in Puglia. Read the article here. Plus, sign up to be the first to know when Ryan is hosting a new Indagare Insider Journey.

• An immersion in the beauty and inspiration of India through once-in-a-lifetime experiences in Delhi, Udaipur and Jaipur, with Fiona Caulfield, one of the best-regarded—and best-connected—India travel writers and lifestyle aficionados. Fiona opened doors to exclusive-access visits, showcasing the very best of Indian style, design and culture.
• Met with influential insiders, designers and collectors, as well as stylish residents and local experts, through visits to India’s finest markets, ateliers, boutiques and workshops, the Amrapali Museum and more.
• Experienced royal history and fantasy brought to life through accommodations at India’s most indulgent properties, including the Rambagh Palace and Oberoi Udaivilas—former palaces that have since been restored and transformed into over-the-top hotels.

Testimonials from Our Travelers:

"The trip was wonderful and so well done and organized. The guides, the itinerary, the logistics were well in-line with my expectations. It was a wonderful mix of seeing many places, learning about the history of the country, eating delicious food, having such special exclusive experiences and shopping."

"By far the best Indagare Insider Journey I have been a part of. The amazing surprises just kept coming. Fiona and Diana were absolutely exceptional hosts. Wow! India exceeded my expectations by far."

"Traveling with Indagare is incredibly special because it goes way beyond the amazing destinations and well-scouted hotels and guides—it’s the relationship with the trip designers, the hosts, the guides, the special surprises, the special gifts. It’s getting to know and share the world with the wonderful community of Indagare travelers that to me is the cherry on top."

"It has been an amazing trip full of contrast. One day we were having tea with the Maharana, the next day we were exploring alleyways in the pink city. All of it was so memorable!"

Related: Join Fiona on another exciting Indagare Journey to India this November 4-11, 2024.