City Lights to Desert Skies: Inside Rozalia Russian's One-of-a-Kind Family Holiday

When Melbourne tastemaker Rozalia Russian worked with Christine Bottrell from Ashmore, Harris & James Travel Associates to plan a USA trip with her husband and their two kids, she wanted a carefully curated escape balancing family adventure with privacy. What unfolded was a one-of-a-kind 13-night journey that wove together New York's festive magic, West Hollywood's creative energy, and California's desert serenity.

"Getting to know Rozalia, Nick, and their two children was essential to crafting this itinerary," says Christine. "They're a family who appreciates authentic experiences and luxury that feels effortless rather than ostentatious."

Flying Cathay Pacific from Melbourne via Hong Kong to New York JFK, the family's adventure began with a private transfer to The Dominick, a sophisticated 5-star sanctuary in Tribeca where floor-to-ceiling windows frame spectacular skyline views. When designing their holiday, Rozalia mentioned her kids' love for Home Alone 2, so Christine orchestrated something particularly special: a private tour that brought the beloved film's magic to life. Retracing memorable scenes from the legendary Plaza Hotel to Times Square's dazzling brilliance and Central Park's snow-dusted paths proved utterly enchanting for the entire family.

The magic continued at Rockefeller Center, where they laced up skates beneath the world-famous Christmas tree. “There's something about experiencing New York's most cherished winter traditions that creates lasting memories at this time of year, especially for families”, Christine notes. Afterwards, they ascended to Top of the Rock with VIP passes for breathtaking 360-degree views, with the new Skylift and Beam Experience offering pulse-racing aerial perspectives of the sprawling city below. 

After a leisurely free day to explore at their own pace, Alaska Airlines flew the family westward to their next chapter. 

This compact, star-studded pocket of Los Angeles offered the perfect fusion of style and substance. Christine arranged hire car collection at the airport for a smooth transition, before the family checked into the chic West Hollywood EDITION into two interconnecting deluxe terrace rooms. At Ardor, the hotel's acclaimed restaurant, contemporary American cuisine infused with Middle Eastern flavours delivered an unforgettable dining experience. 

"When planning for families who appreciate privacy and unique access, it's about creating moments they simply couldn't replicate on their own," Christine shares. The following morning's private guided hike to the Hollywood Sign is a perfect example. Experiencing this iconic landmark without typical tourist crowds transformed it from a photo opportunity into a memorable family moment. 

That evening brought NBA courtside electricity as they witnessed the Los Angeles Lakers battle the Memphis Grizzlies. The thrill of live basketball was infectious, captivating both the kids and Rozalia and her husband alike.

The Universal Studios VIP Experience is a must for any family holiday to California - and for good reason. What sets this apart from an ordinary theme park visit is the exclusivity present in every moment, from the red carpet welcome to the velvet rope treatment that makes you feel like Hollywood royalty. Complimentary valet parking, VIP lounge access, and unlimited express entry meant zero time wasted queuing for rides the kids loved most - Super Nintendo World's Mario Kart adventure proved an instant hit. With the intimate World-Famous Studio Tour, the Russians walked among Hollywood's legendary sets, while a gourmet meal prepared by Universal's executive chef in the private VIP dining room added star quality to the experience.

Before departing LA, Rozalia indulged in a relaxing spa treatment at the West Hollywood EDITION, the perfect rejuvenating finale to her stay. 

The scenic 2-hour drive to Greater Palm Springs kicked off the final leg of their journey. Here, Christine had arranged for two interconnecting villas at The Parker Palm Springs. This decadent boutique desert oasis, adorned with Jonathan Adler's signature playful design, is located minutes from downtown, and is ideal for families seeking adventure, privacy and relaxation. 

A legendary Red Jeep Tour with California's original outdoor adventure company launched them into the desert's otherworldly beauty. From the San Andreas Fault to Painted Canyons, Joshua Tree, and Indian Canyons, geological wonders and natural beauty unfolded at every turn.

At the Palm Springs Surf Club, state-of-the-art wave technology and waterpark attractions catered to all generations, alongside thoughtfully curated dining options that appealed to every palate (essential when travelling with children).

The family’s final full day was dedicated to poolside unwinding – sun loungers, gentle desert breezes, and quality family time before the journey home via LAX, flying Cathay Pacific through Hong Kong back to Melbourne. 

At Travel Associates, our expert advisors craft tailor-made itineraries that cater to your family's unique preferences, securing exclusive experiences that bypass the crowds and truly elevate every holiday beyond the ordinary. 

“Christmas time in NYC followed by Californian sunshine was exactly what our family needed”, shares Rozalia. “Christine coordinated every detail – flights, accommodation, private transfers, insider access – to create a trip of a lifetime for us all.”