Journey to the Serengeti of North America: Grand Tetons, Yellowstone, the Snake River, & the Diamond Cross Ranch

I just returned from the Jackson Hole area and am happy to report feeling refreshed and reconnected. I enjoyed smooth domestic flights with less crowded security areas - and fast yet friendly crews throughout the day. When I arrived in Jackson, my private driver was waiting for me - something we arranged for all Connoisseurs guests. Our team knows the last thing on your mind after a day of traveling is finding a taxi!

Although I have visited many times before, this year's journey proved noteworthy and exceptional. In post-pandemic travel, my perspective (like you, I’m sure) has changed so I am noticing things in a new way. I appreciated how clean and tidy everything was from the airport, the town of Jackson, all the shops - each abiding by the masking policy - the  vehicles we traveled in, and, of course, the hotel. Full services at the hotel, even nightly turn-downs, were available for all guests who wanted them. 

Having the opportunity to tour Yellowstone, the Tetons and the Snake River back-to-back with exceptional guides immersed our group in the significance of this region and afforded us the opportunity to view outstanding wildlife in wildly unique ways. Floating the Snake River in a vintage Mckenzie River dory  - then floating high above the mountain side in a tram gondola is in a class of its own! I was impressed with the care each of our guides took with our group - knowing we were all fully vaccinated (even our guides!) gave me peace of mind and I was able to enjoy the genuine hospitality and opportunity to connect with outstanding and endearing individuals. Then our private visits, each exceptional and outstanding in their own right, provided depth to our time together and enriched the presence of the beautiful landscape we were in. 

I was excited for our stay at Hotel Jackson and it didn’t disappoint. This is the most perfect location for easy walking within the town of Jackson - bustling with lovely galleries, unique restaurants, fab shops and good-natured people full of character! The mask policy was followed without any issues that I noticed, which made gallery hopping and shopping enjoyable again. From snow in Yellowstone to balmy, sunny days and crisp evenings at private ranches to perfectly paired regional wine — a one-of-a-kind journey.

All in all, a fabulous “official” start to Fall 2021!