We just completed our annual SmartFlyer conference, which, among other things, enables our advisors and suppliers to network here in New York City. During the event, it was revealed that Europe is one of our most frequently booked destinations. That we pretty much knew, but we always like to see raw numbers that support a hypothesis.

And what better time to think about new luxury properties in Europe than in the dead of winter?

Lucerne, Zurich

I cannot wait to experience firsthand the dreamy outdoor infinity-edge pool at the Bürgenstock Resort in Lucerne, Switzerland, which is fresh from a renovation of nearly $100 million. The property pairs well with The Dolder Grand, Zurich, which is just an hour’s drive away and is set on the edge of Adlisberg forest, offering spectacular views of the city.

Warsaw

Further north, the Raffles Europejski Warsaw has brought the legendary Raffles service to one of the best addresses in the country’s capital city. Our Eastern European business is growing quickly, and this is sure to be a place I want to visit in 2019. I recently spent a few days with the team at Exeter Travel (our top supplier for Eastern and Central Europe) and we mapped out a few client itineraries, and each one included the new Raffles hotel!

London

Our business to London—SmartFlyer’s No. 1 city in Europe—is fueled by the Corinthia Hotel, under the leadership of its managing director, Thomas Kochs, a seasoned hotelier. I’m eager to stay in one of the 11 new Garden and London suites, which in addition to featuring the very latest technology serve as luxurious retreats from the hustle-and-bustle of the city.

Puglia, Rome

Rocco Forte Hotels is opening two new gems in Italy, another one of our clients’ favorite destinations. The company is debuting its first property in Puglia this May, after assuming management of the five-star Masseria Torre Maizza, which was originally a 16th-century farmhouse. The company will also debut the Hotel de la Ville in Rome above the Spanish Steps, offering some of the best views in town.

Relationships with the hotels and hoteliers that you do business with—or hope to do business with—are critical to your success. After all, your clients rely on you to be their taste- and magic-maker!