Seven countries. Twenty three days. One custom-outfitted Boeing 757. Welcome to The Q Odyssey: Round the World 2026, a sweeping Northern Hemisphere itinerary where rare access, immersive cultural encounters, and elevated design converge into one experience. Imagine, one day, you’re tracing fossil-strewn cliffs in Mongolia’s Gobi Desert with a palaeontologist; the next, you’re drifting through Malta’s Grand Harbour aboard a private luzzu, uncovering Renaissance masterpieces far from the crowds. In Alaska, it’s bear sightings at Redoubt Bay Lodge and glacier dog sledding. In Greenland, Inuit drum dances pulse in intimate settings. You’ll dine beneath starlit Moroccan skies in the Agafay Desert. Wander hanok-lined lanes in Seoul, and explore the Lotte World Tower. In Lijiang, step into Naxi traditions and open-air ritual theatre near the watchful presence of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
This isn’t your typical first-class itinerary. For Vasim Shaikh, founder and CEO of The Q Experiences, the goal has never been to chase bucket lists. “Next year’s edition will unfold a completely new set of destinations—raw, lesser-explored, and chosen for the emotions they evoke rather than their popularity,” he explains. “Exclusivity isn’t just about luxury. It’s about rare access to places, stories, and feelings that don’t come easy.”
The Journey Blueprint
Launching June 6, 2026, from Mumbai and returning on June 28, this 23-day private jet odyssey spans seven culturally rich and geographically striking destinations: Valletta (Malta), Marrakech (Morocco), Nuuk (Greenland), Anchorage (Alaska), Seoul (South Korea), the Gobi Desert (Mongolia), and Lijiang (China).
Each stop includes a three-night stay, with handpicked experiences that resist run-of-the-mill: front-row access to Mongolia’s Naadam Festival, fossil trails and desert safaris led by experts and healing rituals in ancient villages.
“Navigating multiple time zones, regulations, flight clearances, and gaining cultural access—it’s a high-wire act,” says Shaikh. “But when done right, it transforms into something unforgettable.”
Mile-High Luxury
The journey begins in the sky, aboard a privately chartered Boeing 757 configured for just 48 guests. With fully lie-flat, first-class seating, it’s more sanctuary than aircraft. Celebrity chef Vicky Ratnani curates the inflight dining, while a concierge manager, tour director, onboard physician, and dedicated crew ensure every detail lands with ease. A professional filmmaker accompanies the group to document the voyage, so you can relive the magic without pulling out your phone. And yes, there’s high-speed internet, fine wines from a generous open bar, and menus tailored to vegetarian and Jain dietary preferences.
Pune-based couple Janendra and Amita Munot were among those who embarked on The Q Odyssey’s 2024 edition, a whirlwind journey across six continents in 27 days. “At this age, comfort is paramount, and I enjoyed the stay and the impeccable arrangements—the tours, the hotels, the guide, and the wealth of information,” said Janendra. “But more than that, each place had something truly different to offer. These are memories we’ll cherish forever.”
Veteran travellers Aruna and Bhaskar Iyer, who’ve now completed four Q journeys, say reactions to the trip are often ones of disbelief and envy. “We just couldn’t let it pass,” said Aruna. “How often does something like this come along?” Shaikh often hears a familiar refrain from returning guests: “You’ve spoiled us for everything else.” For many, it’s not just the luxury or the logistics—it’s the feeling. “It’s the emotional highs, the bonds formed, the moments that catch you off guard,” he says. “Most often, the places they least expected to love are the ones that stay with them the longest.
The Fine Print
The Q Odyssey: Round the World 2026 Dates: June 6–28, 2026 Seats: Limited to 48 guests Price: INR 99 lakh per person.
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