The world of travel is changing in 2023. Private aviation is becoming increasingly popular while commercial aviation is facing difficulties with delays, high prices, and low-quality options. In addition, innovation in private aviation, such as fractional ownership models (where multiple individuals own a single aircraft) and jet cards (which allow travelers to purchase a set number of hours or flights), are giving travelers more flexibility and freedom to travel privately. This has led to increased access to executive airports, which means avoiding hubs, shorter flights, and ultimately less travel time to the final destination, making travel more efficient.
If you're planning to travel within the United States this summer, it's a good idea to consider taking advantage of the innovations in private jet travel. Here are five destinations to keep in mind:
Ultra-Luxury Resorts/Destinations
Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur, California (pictured)
Post Ranch Inn is an award winning luxury hotel perched on a cliff that overlooks the coast of Big Sur, 1,200 feet above the Pacific Ocean. With a combination of 40 rooms, all are standalone cottages or tree houses, designed to embody rustic-chic with earth tones, redwood walls, and stonework. Guests also have the option to opt for either a breathtaking ocean or mountain view. This destination is a go-to if you are looking to unwind and relax, offering spa treatments that focus on rejuvenation and group fitness sessions including, yoga, meditation and nature hikes. Post Ranch Inn was recently featured on Condé Nast 2022 Gold List, as one of the best hotels in the world. Fly into Monterey Regional Airport, which is just 35 miles north of Post Ranch Inn.
Mayflower Inn & Spa in Washington, Connecticut
Mayflower Inn & Spa, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, is a luxury one-of-a-kind escape located in Washington, Connecticut. The Inn & Spa offers an amazing country retreat, nestled in 58 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and woodland, featuring 28 rooms and 7 suits that all have a mix of modern furnishings, wallcoverings, textiles, art and vintage décor. Amenities to highlight are THE WELL at Mayflower Inn, a 20,000 square-foot spa sanctuary featuring the Pool House with a greenhouse style all-season pool, traditional hammam and a Biophilic Thermal Pool. Additionally, guests also have access to expansive gardens, tennis courts, hiking trails, and fine dining at the Garden Room, the Tap Room, and the Parlor. Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection is ranked by U.S. News as one of the Best Hotels in the USA for 2023. Fly into Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, is 60 miles away.
Four Seasons Resort and Residences in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Four Seasons Resort and Residences in Jackson Hole is a ski on/ski off resort that sits on 6.3 acres, offering guests a mountain lifestyle experience with beautiful views of the Teton Mountains. All 166 guest rooms and residences make you feel like you have your own private ski chalet, which includes, stone wall gas fireplace, private balcony, gasping views of the wild West outside, as décor that hints at the area's Native American heritage. Guests have access to famous trails, which includes Full-service ski concierge to help with equipment, and lift passes, as well as two outdoor whirlpools, a large heated swimming pool that is open year-round, and a 12,000-square-foot-spa. The Four Seasons has two delicious restaurants that feature local specialties including; elk chili and venison sausage. Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole is ranked by U.S. News as one of the Best Hotels in the USA for 2023. Fly into Jackson Hole Airport which is 35 minutes from The Four Seasons Resort and Residences.
Auberge Du Soleil in Napa Valley, California
Auberge Du Soleil rests along the Wine Country hillside and offers a taste of the south of France in Napa Valley. Auberge Du Soleil is known for its 52 vineyard-view accommodations, swimming pool, and Michelin-starred dining room. Everything about this resort is designed for relaxation in an atmosphere of elevated sophistication and elegance. The Auberge Du Soleil is just a few steps from Silverado Trail Winery and access to more than 450 world-class wineries within minutes in any direction. Forbes Travel Guide Honors Auberge du Soleil with 10th Consecutive Five Star Award. Fly into Napa County Airport, which is just 24 miles south of Auberge Du Soleil.
The Inns of Aurora in Aurora, New York (Finger Lakes)
The Inns of Aurora is an upscale retreat located in the Finger Lakes along the shores of Cayuga Lake in the heart of New York’s premier wine region. The property was the former home of the co-founder of the New York Times, Colonel Edwin Barber Morgan. The Inns of Aurora is made up of five historic and charming decorated estates, which includes 54 rooms and two suites, each with amenities, including a spa, a farm-to-table restaurant, and complimentary outdoor gear rental. Travel and Leisure featured the Inns of Aurora as the number 1 Best Resort in New York in the 2022 World's Best Awards. Getting to the Finger Lakes is flying into Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport, which is 35 minutes south of Aurora Inn.
Planning a last-minute weekend getaway with your significant other, friends, or family can be an exciting experience. However, to ensure an unforgettable and luxurious trip from start to finish, it's important not to overlook your means of transportation. Poorly scheduled commercial flights or those that are frequently delayed or canceled can quickly derail your weekend plans. That's why flying privately can offer more convenience, comfort, and flexibility, making it the perfect choice to elevate your trip.
Article by: Brandon McIntosh, Vice President of Customer Experience at Volato
Brandon McIntosh is the Vice President of Customer Experience at Volato, the world’s most innovative private jet company that offers the most efficient and rewarding solutions for luxury private jet travel. Brandon previously worked as Director of Customer Experience for Jet It, and has held positions with Marriott International and The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company.
