Sounds are an often-under-appreciated aspect of travel. They can transform a destination, setting the mood and atmosphere, offering a window into local culture, evoking emotions and creating a vivid memory of a place.

If you picture yourself on white sanded shores, what do you hear? The crash of the ocean as it meets the sand. If you picture yourself on a jungle expedition, what sounds accompany you? The call of birds through the canopy, the rustle of animals. And if you picture yourself stargazing in the desert, what do you hear then? Absolutely nothing.

In the world of luxury travel, noises - or a distinct lack of - play a vital role in creating a sense of tranquillity and escape.

Cape Town, Rovos Rail & Victoria Falls - hear the crash of the waves on Cape Town's Atlantic Coast, the clack of the Rovos Rail train on the tracks, and the spectacular symphony of the world-famous falls, also known as 'The Smoke That Thunders'.

French Polynesia in Style - listen to the rustle of grass skirts in traditional dance performances, the splash of canoe oars during boat trips, and the call of seabirds overhead as you begin your journey in San Francisco and end it in Santa Monica.

Nimali Safari & Pemba Island - this break is defined by nature's wild soundtrack: trumpeting elephants, laughing hyenas, and the distant roar of lions as you explore the Serengeti, then the lull of waves on Pemba Island.

Hong Kong & Borneo - take in the splash of harbour waters, the chime of temples, and the clatter of mahjong tiles in Hong Kong, then the whoosh of monkeys leaping through the Borneo rainforest, chattering orangutans, and pygmy elephants roaming banks of Kinabatangan River.

Crossing the Equator: Portugal to Brazil - this journey retraces historic routes taken by explorers as they charted new world, so spend 10 days at sea listening to live music in The Lobby Lounge and Theatre before reaching Salvador da Bahia to listen to local rhythms that capture the essence of Brazil.

Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong - take in life along this famous river's banks, where life flows in harmony with the current and the rumble of motorbikes offers a fitting soundtrack. You'll also gain profound insight into Cambodia's past.

Antarctica Peninsula In-Depth - this breathtaking sailing sees you surrounded by an almost otherworldly silence, hearing only the occassional crack of ice, the call of seabird or the squawk of penguin.

Our sense of smell is an incredibly powerful memory trigger, and travel offers a smorgasbord of scents that can transport us back to a specific moment in an instant.

The aromatic spices of Moroccan markets, sold by the pound and stirred into rich curries and tagines. The comforting caress of hibiscus and sweet almond oil as you sink into authentic Thai massages. The heady fragrance of incense left burning at the foot of Far Eastern shrines. It’s enough for you to feel like you’re right there in the heart of the destination.

When carefully selected in hotel rooms, scents enhance the feeling of relaxation, indulgence and escape, becoming associated with the act of luxury travel. When free roaming in the destinations you explore, smells add a layer of authenticity to your experience, creating a lasting memory.

Chiang Mai & Krabi In Style - in Chiang Mai, take in the incense from shrines and the lemongrass and jasmine from markets. Krabi's coast is permeated by hints of coconut and driftwood, and the florals of orchids.

Marrakech & Coast - the rich aroma of musks, spices, leather and handwoven rugs will follow you arround Marrakech's souks, while rosewater and orange blossom caresses in triad courtyards, and sea salt defines your time in Taghazout.

Classic Japan - breathe in the crispness of freshly brewed matcha in traditional tea houses, the incense from ancient shrines, air that's filled with fleeting sweetness of sakura during cherry blossom season, and the air of hot springs in Hakone.

The Best of New Zealand Self-Drive - Rotorua's bubbling geothermal pools seep with sulphurous volcanic steam in Rotorua, Napier's vineyards exude ripe florals, the salty ocean embraces South Island, and the alpine atmosphere of Franz Josef is a scent to behold.

Highlights of Vietnam & Cambodia - step into clouds of incense at the Thien Hau Pagoda, take in the fruity sweetness of Cai Be's floating markets, and the sugary scent of palms in Tan Chau.

The Heart of Oceania - this is a voyage of sensory delight: a fresh ocean breeze, the clean air of Australia and New Zealand, the florals of lavender farms in Kaikoura, and the earthy fragrance of Milford Sound.

Mediterranean Wanderlust - enter the Seven Seas Grandeur's Culinary Arts Kitchen as you learn to be guided by your sense of smell and create authentic recipes from the ports you visit: Barcelona, Livorno, Romes, Naples, and Mykonos.

Some of our most vivid travel memories are often linked to specific dishes or flavours. Food is a form of adventure after all, tempting us outside of our comfort zones and revealing new combinations. To share a meal with locals or fellow travellers is to connect and learn.

In Singapore, the explosion of flavours at Michelin-starred Hawker stalls rival those of fine dining restaurants, showing that plates to savour can be found outside of high end establishments. The sweet, liquorice-tinged burn of pre-dinner ouzo in Greece piques your appetite, the gateway to enjoying small plates and seafood. Traditional Japanese tea ceremonies are reminiscent of time gone by, creating a bond between host and guest. Post expedition hot chocolates on board a luxury cruise are akin to a warm hug, a welcome conclusion to a busy day exploring the Arctic.

They say variety is the spice of life, and incorporating unique culinary experiences into your travels is a surefire way to create lifelong memories – the world becomes your plate.

A Taste of Sri Lanka - this food-centric adventure kicks off with a private spice garden tour, features home-cooked curries in Kandy, and ends with an authentic meal surrounded by paddy fields and mountains, interspersed with trips to iconic landmarks and heritage sites.

Flavours & Culture of Vietnam - Hanoi's streets sizzle with life and flavour, tempting you to try steaming pho, pork belly, and steamed rice pancakes. A hands-on cooking class sees you learning more about the nation's dishes, and an early tour of Hoi An's markets reveal its freshest produce.

Drive the Great Ocean Road - this journey is packed with sights as rich as Australia's wine. Wind your way along the world-famous route, stopping for fresh seafood and indulgent local wines, before visiting the legendary Barossa Valley.

Cape Town, Winelands & Wildlife - a gourmet escape that weaves through the Eastern Cape, every meal of this itinerary comes with a side of spectacular scenery: Cape Malay curries in Cape Town, world-famous wines in Babylonstoren, and locally-sourced produce at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve.

The Wonders of the Aegean - expect to uncover the traditions of Greek cuisine during this delectable journey: the street markets of Athens, the farm-to-table fare of Rhodes, and the cosmopolitan flavours of Mykonos. As you set sail on Silversea's lavish Silver Muse, it's all matched by gourmet cuisine on board.

Douro Delights - this is a scenic, history-rich and foodie-focused sailing that traces the Douro River's dramatic valleys and vineyards. Sip robust reds and delicate whites, sampling local specialities as you go, while also enjoying the flavours of the MS Estrela.

Basking in the Breeze - every journey with Regent Seven Seas is a delicious adventure, with Included & Unlimited Shore Excursions that reveal the Caribbean's culinary traditions at no extra cost. On board the ship, chefs put their heart into every epicurean delight.

Grenadines & Windwards Yachting - begin this trip with a pre-cruise, all-inclusive stay at Barbados' O2 Beach Club & Spa, before you hop aboard the Emerald Sakara. A luxury yacht that can reach where larger ships can't, you'll visit the best spots for rum punches and rich chocolates.

Texture adds depth and dimension to experience, playing a vital role in how we connect with a destination. Inside 5 star hotels, textures become a canvas for indulgence – silky linens caressing your skin, rich velvets framing breathtaking views, plush carpets underfoot. It all tells a story of honed craftsmanship, creating a haven of comfort and sophistication.

But luxury isn’t just aesthetics, it’s a multi-sensory experience that engages the whole body. Think of the act of sinking your toes into cool, soft sands, the gentle granules massaging your soles, or easing into the naturally hot waters of Iceland’s hot springs. The rough barks of ancient trees, whose surfaces are shaped by time and resilience, the fibres of hand woven rugs hung out for sale in souks, painstakingly yet lovingly fashioned. Luxury travel incorporates a variety of textures and experiences that allow you to truly feel the world around you, rather than just seeing and hearing it.

Icelandic Winter Escape Short Break - take in the mesmerising natural phenomenons of Iceland during this 3 night adventure: the Northern Lights, erupting geysers, and cascading waterfalls in the Golden Circle, then feel the spectacular contrast of cold air and warm water at the Sky Lagoon.

Culture, Tigers & Wellness - you'll be moved by the warmth and passion of your guides during this explorative itinerary, as you're taken to visit famous forts, and the Taj Mahal at sunrise. Then ascend to new heights in the Himalayas and feel the serenity of one of the world's most famous holistic wellness retreats.

Bali Beach & Spa Hideaway - feel the naturally calming effect of far-spanning countryside and rolling rice fields, soft granules of sand on your feet, and the rush of water as you dive into crystal-clear ocean. Bali is a spectaular spot to connct with nature, culture, and your inner self.

The Beaches of Boracay & Beyond - let relaxation wash over you as you sink into the five star hotels this itinerary features. This visit to the Philippines features trips to naturally beautifull islands perfect for snorkelling and swimming, as well as the breathtaking Chocolate Hills.

Mediterranean Escapade: Spain & the French Riviera - born out of a three-decade-long project of passion and curiosity, the Scenic Eclipse yacht will have you feeling like a golden age film star as you trace the French Riviera. Scenic Enrich experiences take you behind the scenes of famous monuments and landmarks, granting a deeper appreciate of its history.

The Great Barrier Reef and Beyond - this itinerary is filled with once-in-a-lifetime moments: cruising the Great Barrier Reef, explorations of Townsville's rainforest, and Darwin's wallabies and dolphins. You'll disembark the Seabourn Quest enriched by adventured.

Caribbean Yachting Hideaways - sleek, modern, and designed with sustainability in mind, the Emerald Azzurra yacht glides across the Caribbean without damaging the marine ecosystems below. Feel the breeze on your skin as you dive into deep blue waters, or board a Zodiac for a thilling, expertly-guided excursion.

Milan, Venice & the Jewels of Veneto - take in the romance, culture, and history of Venice during this breathtaking river cruise. Enjoy a private, after-hours tour of St. Mark's Basilica, wander Burano's fishermen cottages, and explore Chioggia with a sommelier as your guide. This sailing celebrates Italy's artistic soul.