Mongolia is a land where time has stood still, a land that appears today much as it did when Genghis Khan led his horde across the plains 800 years ago.
It holds some of the last true wilderness areas on Earth; vast tracts that are utterly untamed, untouched, untrodden, unfenced, uncut, and unspoiled. The austere beauty of the Gobi Desert in the south is matched by the awesome breadth of the oceanic grasslands on the central steppe and by the grandeur of the picture-perfect lakes, mountains, and boreal forests of the north. Also frozen in time are the traditional lifestyles of various tribes of nomadic pastoralists. Comprising several distinct ethnic groups, these different tribes tend different livestock depending on where they live, e.g., goats and camels in the south, yaks and horses on the central plains, and reindeer in the north.
Traveling the world with your family is like sharing a box filled with presents. The box is the world itself and the presents are the bonds that form through the experiences we share, and the perspective, patience, understanding, and tolerance we gain from expanding our horizons and seeing how other people live. There is no greater gift.
In various destinations around the world, we have highlighted examples of exceptional accommodations that set new standards for aesthetics and responsible tourism. These properties reflect our own company values by emphasizing community involvement and the preservation of cultural heritage, protection of natural resources, and sustainability, both in practice and design. They also combine outstanding comfort and service, natural beauty, and functionality. Where you stay along the way can greatly enhance any journey. Options abound, but these are some of our favorites.
A remarkable eco-lodge in the heart of the desert, Three Camel Lodge celebrates the traditions of Mongolia’s nomads while preserving its breathtaking surroundings. The 35 gers, traditional Mongolian tents, are all locally made each appointed with hand-painted, carved furniture, wool carpets, camel-hair blankets, and wood-burning stoves. From its design to its daily practices, the Three Camel Lodge is a model of environmental and cultural sustainability.
Set on the banks of the Terelj River surrounded by wild, tree-covered mountains in the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, the Terelj Hotel is a comfortable sanctuary within 30 miles of Mongolia’s capital city, Ulaanbaatar. Rooms are adorned with artworks by local artists, Mongolian cashmere blankets, and views of the forested river.
Located in the heart of the capital of Mongolia, Shangri-La Hotel features elegant guestrooms overlooking Nayramdal Park and Great Chinggis Khaan Square. Blending contemporary and traditional Mongolian designs, the hotel is a luxurious retreat within walking distance of the famous Government House and Great Chinggis Khaan Square.