These Exclusive Travel Clubs Offer Unique Experiences at Affordable Prices
Andria Gutierrez, a marketing executive based in Lake Tahoe, California, is passionate about travel but finds researching vacations to be a drain on her time. "When I was younger, I handled all my travel planning myself," she notes. "But now that I run a business, I simply don't have the hours to spare."
This is why she recently became a member of Allcall, which provides tailored itineraries and exclusive offers to its members. She's already enjoyed three trips with Allcall, including a ski trip across multiple states and a getaway in Baja California, Mexico. "The team is exceptionally helpful and quick to respond," Gutierrez shares. "They streamline the planning process so well."
While long-established companies like Exclusive Resorts and Wheels Up have served the ultra-wealthy for years, a wave of new clubs is emerging. A significant reason for this shift is the rising focus on safety.
"Health has become our members' top priority," states Melissa Biggs Bradley, founder of Indagare, which arranges and coordinates trips for its members. "We have extensive information on COVID protocols, and our team ensures they stay updated with the latest changes."
Other factors are influencing this trend. "I had traveled on my own for many years," shares Suzy Kellems Dominik, an artist from New York City. However, the chance to visit Modena, Italy, with renowned chef Massimo Bottura from Osteria Francescana was enough to persuade her to join Prior, which was founded in 2019.
Dinner at Monte Rotundo, a Tuscan villa exclusive to members of Exclusive Resorts. Courtesy of Exclusive Resorts"What’s fascinating is the access they provide," Kellems Dominik remarks. "It’s about intellectual and emotional travel — the possibilities are endless — and they’ve gathered a group of truly intriguing individuals who share a passion for food."
This ability to create unique opportunities is attracting travelers who typically don’t see themselves as joiners. According to a recent industry survey, nearly half of all millennials are considering joining a travel club, surpassing the interest levels of Gen Xers and baby boomers. Even Exclusive Resorts, which imposes a significant daily fee for trips in addition to membership costs, has experienced a rise in interest from young families. In 2020, the company achieved its best December in nine years, despite the pandemic.
So, which of these clubs is the best fit for you? It really depends on your preferences and the amount you’re willing to invest.
For Luxury Private Getaways
Exclusive Resorts boasts a collection of over 400 vacation homes, along with members-only cruises and expeditions. Inspirato offers access to villas in more than 180 locations, and members can also embark on company-organized cruises. A more budget-friendly option is Koala, which enables travelers to book individual stays in timeshares around the world.
For a Community of Like-Minded Individuals
El Camino started as a small-group trip provider dedicated to empowering women to explore new destinations, but it has since launched the El Camino Travel Clubhouse, a platform that facilitates virtual events and discussions about upcoming trips. Manifest, which launched in August 2020, has established chapters in various cities across the United States. "We foster a social environment where people can connect beyond just traveling together," states founder Jeff Potter.
Paddleboarding the Rio Grande on a trip organized by Manifest. Heritage Inspirations/Courtesy of ManifestFor Uplifting Travel Experiences
The emerging wellness platform and app MyLifeWell launched in 2020, offering virtual fitness classes and a range of workout equipment. It now connects subscribers with travel advisors who focus on booking wellness retreats at Canyon Ranch properties and beyond.
For Those Hesitant to Commit
Historically, the high costs associated with clubs have deterred many from joining. However, in the spring of 2020, Prior reduced its pricing to attract a more varied group of adventurers. "I don't want a club that excludes people," says founder David Prior. Dinogo Co. also introduced an affordable subscription model, offering exclusive rates and insider experiences worldwide.
This story first appeared in the June 2020 issue of Dinogo, titled Join the Club.
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