Italy is one of our most popular family destinations for many reasons. Food is easy: nearly everyone loves Italian specialties such as pasta, pizza, antipasti, fried vegetables, cheese and gelato. Culture is everywhere: older children are fascinated by places where history is so tangible (and beautiful), and younger children are wowed by iconic places such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Colosseum. Italians are very family-oriented: they love entertaining children and are always eager to lend a hand when a parent needs a little help or a momentary distraction (doormen in Italy are not above playing hide-and-seek with toddlers in hotel lobbies).

Many of our favorite hotels and resorts in Italy are very family-friendly, with kids clubs, child-friendly activities and extensive resort facilities. A highlight of visiting in the summer is spending warm afternoons swimming in the beautiful pools at Villa d'Este (Lake Como), Hotel Cipriani (Venice), the Four Seasons Hotel Florence, and the Rome Cavalieri (Rome).

Our private Italy tours make family travel easy and stress-free. We take care of all the logistics, such as selecting the very best hotels and hotel rooms, making restaurant and babysitter reservations, and ensuring connecting rooms or extra beds as required. We also arrange details such as VIP access at museums and top attractions so no one has to wait in line.

Our private guides bring history alive for children, and they provide a friendly, personalized connection to Italian life and culture. Our private drivers transport families from city to city in a luxurious and hassle-free way.

We arrange many special activities for families visiting Italy, such as private boat charters on Lake Como or to the isle of Capri, private gladiator lessons in Rome, hands-on lessons in traditional crafts, private gondola and boat rides in Venice, visits to specialty food makers and high-end car factories in Emilia Romagna, private family cooking classes, visits to local amusement parks and playgrounds, privately guided hiking, visits to renowned Italian toy stores, and much more.

Our favorite family tour itinerary in Italy combines the cities of Rome, Florence and Venice with several magical days in Lake Como at Villa d'Este—arguably the best luxury family resort in Italy. Visit our website to peruse our many recommended luxury tours in Italy.

Touring the Atacama Desert with your own private local guide is the best way to experience this spectacular region in northern Chile and its many attractions.

Private touring allows travelers to visit Atacama highlights such as the Valley of the Moon without the crowds. We arrange exclusive activities such as a private breakfast while watching geysers erupt in a geothermal field high in the Andes,

visiting pre-Columbian ruins and petroglyphs with an archaeologist, taking photography expeditions to capture dramatic landscapes such as colorful salt lakes and snow-capped volcanoes at the best times of day, seeing pink flamingoes feeding in lagoons, hiking through desert gorges and across vast sand dunes, mountain biking through high-desert valleys, relaxing in natural hot springs, viewing the dazzling night sky with an astronomer, and taking pottery classes with local artisans.

Our travelers stay at a luxurious resort in the historic village of San Pedro de Atacama, where they can enjoy blue skies, dry desert air and a slow-paced atmosphere.

Our luxury Chile tours combine the Atacama Desert with many other wonderful touring options in the region, such as visiting historic cities and renowned wine estates in central Chile; hiking among glaciers, lakes and mountains in wild Patagonia; and exploring the beauty and mystery of remote Easter Island. The Atacama Desert also combines naturally with Salta and Jujuy provinces in northwest Argentina, as well as many other destinations in Argentina, Peru and Ecuador.

Israel's most dynamic city, Tel Aviv is the country's cultural and commercial heart and a highlight of any tour of Israel. Although it possesses no holy sites and a relatively short history (aside from the ancient port of Jaffa), Tel Aviv is a vibrant, 24-hour city with a wide array of cultural offerings, restaurants and nightlife that no other Israeli city matches. Adding to its appeal is a beautiful Mediterranean beach setting. Here is a list of our top five favorite things to see and do in Tel Aviv:

1.) Old Jaffa

This ancient Arab port city, also known as Yafo, was once the gateway to Jerusalem. Archaeologists have unearthed remains dating back to the 20th century B.C., establishing Jaffa as one of the world's oldest ports. It has since been absorbed into the city of Tel Aviv, and today many of its atmospheric cobblestone alleyways are lined with art studios and galleries. Wandering through the old town with one of our expert local guides, you can see reminders of past and present occupants: old Arab houses, fountains and mosques; Ottoman structures; Greek Orthodox churches, Roman Catholic and Armenian monasteries; synagogues; ancient Roman and Crusader-era remnants; and even a cannon belonging to Napoleon's army. Browsing Jaffa's flea market is a highlight. Comprised of shops offering second-hand clothing, intricately patterned backgammon sets, jewelry, Judaica, ceramics and other items, the market also yields the occasional genuine antique for those who persevere. Dotting the market are numerous falafel and pomegranate-juice stands. Or, if you prefer a sit-down meal, join the locals at the perennially popular Dr. Shakshuka restaurant, which specializes in the eponymous egg and tomato sauce dish.

2.) Bauhaus architecture
In 2003, the "White City" of Tel Aviv was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its proliferation of buildings designed in the International Modern architectural style, also known as Bauhaus. The Bauhaus movement started in Germany in the 1920s; German architects who immigrated to Israel introduced the style to Tel Aviv—with a few tweaks to accommodate the climate, such as balconies and smaller windows—and over the next few decades thousands of structures were built in this unique style. Bauhaus-style buildings can be seen throughout the city, but the highest concentration is found on and around elegant, tree-lined Rothschild Boulevard. For travelers keenly interested in architecture, we can arrange in-depth touring with one of our expert architecture guides.

3.) Markets

Tel Aviv is filled with wonderful open-air markets. One of the more popular is Carmel Market—Israel's largest—which overflows with spices, produce, fresh meat and fish, cheese, clothing, toys and kitchenware. This is a great place to sample delicious baklava and other local specialties while browsing the stalls and listening to the vendors sing about their products. Another great market for gastronomes is the Lewinski Spice Market—this is where local chefs and foodies come to buy exotic spices, olives, dried fruits and nuts, rare condiments and specialty products. Aside from food markets, there are numerous other interesting markets to be found in Tel Aviv, selling everything from rare books, old photographs, antique musical instruments and vintage clothing to Judaica, handmade silver jewelry and folk art and crafts.

4.) Neve Tzedek

Neve Tzedek is the city's hippest neighborhood, a charming enclave of beautifully restored houses, trendy restaurants, stylish boutiques and art galleries. Founded in 1887, it is the oldest neighborhood in Tel Aviv, and it was home to the cultural and literary elite in the early 20th century. Today Neve Tzedek's housing prices are some of the highest in the city, yet it preserves the feel of a small village, with its romantic winding alleys and colorful buildings. This is a great area for travelers interested in local art, as there are several first-rate art galleries in the vicinity, as well as a couple of private museums. Several dance companies are also located here, as is the Suzanne Dellal Center, a highly regarded dance and theater complex that is the venue for Israel's internationally acclaimed Batsheva Dance Company. We often arrange for tickets to evening performances for travelers who are interested in dance or music.

5.) Museums
There are a number of excellent museums located in Tel Aviv that are worth a visit. At the top of our list is the Museum of the Jewish Diaspora, a unique multimedia museum that chronicles various aspects of the Jewish people in Israel and around the world. Using photographs, documentary films, murals, dioramas, audiovisual displays and interactive exhibits, the visitor is taken on a journey across 2,500 years of the Jewish Diaspora. Other good options include the Eretz Israel Museum Complex, which focuses on Israeli archaeology, history and culture; the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, housing works by Israeli and international artists from the 16th century to the present, including especially good collections of Impressionist and modern art; the Helena Rubinstein Pavilion, which holds contemporary art exhibits; as well as other museums dedicated to art, literature, antiquities, military history, and famous figures and events in Israel's history.

We can incorporate visits to any of these places into our private Israel tours.

For centuries, Hangzhou has been regarded as one of China's most beautiful and relaxing destinations. The region's charms—scenic West Lake, ancient Buddhist temples, and abundant tea plantations—have changed little since Hangzhou was the imperial capital of the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279).

The emperors may be long gone, but a luxurious lifestyle remains. The Fuchun Resort—one of the finest resorts in China—is a highlight for our travelers when visiting Hangzhou. Set in the hills outside the city, the Fuchun is an evocative collection of traditional Chinese-style buildings (complete with modern touches like a wonderful spa) overlooking lakes and mountains.

The Fuchun will soon be joined by new Banyan Tree and Aman resorts, giving Hangzhou a wealth of options for a relaxing break in refined and beautiful surroundings. The Banyan Tree has been built as a traditional water village overlooking the ponds and marshes of Xixi National Wetland Park. The Aman, which will also feature traditional Chinese-style architecture, has been built near Lingyin Temple, one of China's largest and most famous Buddhist temples. Both resorts will have extensive spa facilities.

When in Hangzhou, touring West Lake is a must. Hangzhou's most renowned scenic and cultural attraction, West Lake has been an inspiration for generations of artists and writers, who have captured its beauty in countless paintings and poems. Our Hangzhou tours include a private boat ride to see highlights such as the 10 Scenes of West Lake—viewpoints with poetic names like "Three Ponds Mirroring the Moon" and "Fish Viewing at the Flower Pond." We also include other highlights of Hangzhou, such as traditional Chinese gardens, ancient Buddhist temples in mist-shrouded hills, historic shops specializing in herbal medicine, and museums dedicated to local traditions such as seal engraving, tea and silk.

Longjing (Dragon Well) green tea, considered one of the finest teas in China, is another must when visiting Hangzhou. Exploring the local tea plantations is another touring highlight. In addition to tea, Hangzhou's cuisine is also renowned, with classic dishes such as dongpo rou (pork belly braised in Shaoxing rice wine) and West Lake fish in sweet-and-sour sauce.

Hagnzhou is featured in many of our luxury China tours and is a short drive from Shanghai.

Peru is one of our most popular family travel destinations. With awe-inspiring archaeological sites such as Machu Picchu, abundant wildlife, and incredible natural beauty, Peru offers the perfect mix of culture, nature and family-friendly activities.

Our guides in Peru are particularly skilled at keeping sightseeing interesting and fun for the entire family.

No visit to Peru is complete without a visit to Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the highlights of South America. Our travelers journey to Machu Picchu on the famous Hiram Bingham train, then tour Machu Picchu with their own expert private guide. Kids love exploring the narrow stone walkways, hiking the trails around the site, and learning about Incan culture and architecture.

Our Peru tours include accommodation at the renowned Sanctuary Lodge, located right at Machu Picchu. Staying at Sanctuary Lodge allows families to enjoy the site in the early morning before the crowds arrive.

Peru is a great destination for outdoor activities. For active families, we arrange a private trekking guide for a day hike to Machu Picchu on the last stretch of the famous Inca Trail. For those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience, a private trek can be arranged to remote villages where families can visit local homes and schools. Another option is an overnight trek—complete with a private trekking crew and cook, pack horses, and high-quality camping equipment—that features camping under the stars at a less-visited Incan site.

We include special cultural activities such as a private weaving lesson where kids and parents can learn traditional weaving and dyeing techniques, an important aspect of Peruvian culture. Families also enjoy private cooking classes in Lima.

New luxury hotels opening in the Sacred Valley (Urubamba) are a great option for families interested in spending a few days enjoying the in-depth private touring and activities we arrange in the region, such as hands-on Peruvian cooking lessons, river rafting, hot-air ballooning, mountain biking, horseback riding, visiting local villages and markets, and exploring archaeological sites.

The Colca Canyon is another area of Peru that is perfect for families. We arrange a variety of private activities including canyon hikes, participating in community volunteer projects, visiting local towns, and riding Peruvian Paso horses.

Another family favorite in Peru is taking a luxury cruise through Peru's Amazon rainforest. Touring is with expert naturalist guides who point out squirrel monkeys, sloths, piranha, exotic birds and other fascinating wildlife along the waterways. Kids and parents alike love looking for pink dolphins in the river and spotting nocturnal wildlife during nighttime walks through the jungle. Visiting local indigenous villages with the guides is another highlight of our tours in the Amazon. Parents also appreciate the gourmet meals, excellent service and luxurious accommodations on board the cruise.

Many families also have us customize a private tour that combines Peru with a weeklong luxury cruise in the Galapagos.