Sydneysiders who find themselves suffering from a little post-pandemic ennui can quench their wanderlust with a range of new luxury local travel experiences, curated by renowned lifestyle service, The VIP Sydney.

Founded by concierge to the rich and famous Karim Gharb, The VIP Sydney is a go-to for unique and bespoke experiences. And now the brand has partnered with leading luxury travel specialist Southern Crossings to release the first in a series of prestige local escapes, just in time for the easing of lockdown restrictions.

The global coronavirus pandemic has brought international travel to an indefinite halt, nixing European summer adventures and trans-Atlantic escapes alike. With more than 11.2 million Australian residents returning home from overseas last year, demand for local experiences is expected to soar.

“We’ve created a series of luxe-local experiences allowing Australians to embrace well-known tourist destinations in a totally new way. Instead of spending thousands on a flight to Europe or a festival in the US, arrive to lunch within the vines of a private Hunter Valley vineyard via helicopter, ” said founder of The VIP Sydney, Karim Gharbi.

Some of the first packages to be released include:

• The ultimate Palm Beach escape including a two-nights at a luxurious waterfront property, seaplane travel to and from the city, a pantry full of local gourmet produce, private chef, Range Rover Vogue and lunch at Jonah’s Whale Beach.
• A private helicopter charter for up to six guests to the Hunter Valley’s acclaimed Chardonnay producer, Winmark Estate, gourmet lunch, private vineyard tour with cellar door manager John Samway, tasting plus a selection of personalised wines to take home.
• A private tour and dinner at Sydney Cricket Ground hosted by cricket legend Michael Clarke, plus signed cricket memorabilia for up to 14 guests.

To view the full range of experiences and to book, visit www.thevipsydney.com