Jared Ruttenberg

4 days ago | aluxurytravelblog.com | Jared Ruttenberg

The timing couldn’t have been better. It was the week of the launch of White Lotus Season 3, and the hotel-themed show was filmed on the island of Koh Samui, where we were staying. The atmosphere was electric, as was our anticipation. So off two friends went in search of our own White Lotus experience, hopefully with all the beauty but none of the drama. Our driver wound through the bustling streets, with people, scooters, and dogs moving in all directions.

2 weeks ago | aluxurytravelblog.com | Jared Ruttenberg

The Mother City continues to shine after being named Time Out’s annual ‘Best Cities in the World’. With countless attractions available, I share a few of my favourite new highlights from Cape Town. Have you ever found yourself gazing up at the stars, blissfully immersed in a sense of escape? Cape Town’s One & Only enhances that experience with a no-expense-spared renovation of their spa – now embracing the theme ‘Stardust’ and offering a stellar experience.

1 month ago | aspirelifestyle.co.za | Jared Ruttenberg

Travel journalist Jared Ruttenberg was invited to Thailand to celebrate a momentous change in legislation and sun soak on White Lotus Season 3’s dreamy island. In January, Thailand made headlines as the first Southeast Asian country to pass laws allowing marriage irrespective of gender. This marks an unabashed celebration of the right to love whomever one chooses and formalises that ceremoniously and legally. Since the recent announcement, two thousand couples have registered to tie the knot.

1 month ago | aspirelifestyle.co.za | Jared Ruttenberg

Capetonians hankering for a country escape are spoilt for choice. Recently, I set out to explore three new finds, each just over a two-hour drive from the city or airport, but more importantly, all far enough away from the madding crowd. McGregor is a village I’ve returned to repeatedly, and for good reason, this secluded 19th-century village is one of the country’s most peaceful staycations.

1 month ago | aluxurytravelblog.com | Jared Ruttenberg

With over 700 vineyards within a two-hour drive of Cape Town, deciding which one to visit can pose a challenge. Fortunately, the estate closest to Cape Town’s airport is a destination in its own right – and after visiting twice, it’s time to share this hidden gem. Driving through the gates of Vergenoegd Löw invokes a palpable anticipation of leaving behind life’s stresses and embracing the excitement of what lies ahead.