There’s no better way to spend your money than on travelling – seeing more of the world can expand your horizons, and the experiences you’ll have will be priceless. When money isn’t an object, opportunities to take a great trip to the next level are everywhere. Here are some destinations that offer experiences that only money can buy. Whatever your idea of luxury is, we’ve got you covered.
Monaco
Monaco is home to one of the few remaining royal families in the world, a legendary casino frequented by James Bond, and the most prestigious automobile race in the world. Here, you’ll find multimillion-dollar yachts and some of the most luxurious cars money can buy casually driving the roads. Monaco has the most millionaires and billionaires per capita, and its reputation for glitz and glamour makes it a playground for celebrity visitors and big spenders.
Travelling to Monaco is no inexpensive task, but it offers a luxury experience like no other. Since every hotel in Monaco offers top-notch amenities and premium spa treatments, whichever one you choose is guaranteed to be luxurious. Admire the Monte-Carlo Casino’s ornate architecture while trying your luck at the casino tables, and shop designer brands in the Carré d’Or alongside other wealthy clientele. Go for a test drive in a racecar on the panoramic streets of the French Riviera, or, if you have euros to spare, get tickets to watch the Grand Prix – the most expensive tickets can go for thousands of euros. Monaco is the second-smallest city-state in the world, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in extravagance.
Luxury Monaco Tours
This 16-day luxury tour is the height of European luxury, beginning in Paris and ending in Monaco, treating travellers to Michelin-starred meals, VIP access to 17th-century châteaus, and, of course, all the glitz and glamour Monaco has to offer.
Rajasthan
Rajasthan is a state that is steeped in Indian history. Its name, meaning “Land of Kings,” conjures images of nobility and opulence, and the many forts and palaces scattered throughout the state only intensify that impression. One of the most often travelled paths is the Golden Triangle – it covers Delhi, where open-air street bazaars meets sleek and modern shopping malls; Agra, the home of the incomparable Taj Mahal; and Jaipur, which evokes royalty with its pink-coloured buildings and City Palace complex. Many former palaces in the region have been converted into luxury hotels, and staying in one of their suites will make you feel like royalty. Visit the Taj Mahal, the opulent symbol of India’s rich history. Go on a camel safari to explore the velvety deserts of Rajasthan, or take a guided tour of Ranthambore National Park to ensure you get a rare glimpse of the royal Bengal tiger in its natural habitat, along with crocodiles, spotted deer, and other wildlife.
Luxury Rajasthan Tours
This tour spends 14 days travelling the Golden Triangle in the most luxurious way! Travellers stay in accommodation fit for royalty, partake in cooking demonstrations, and visit the setting for the film “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.” If you’re lucky, maybe you’ll spot the elusive Bengal tiger during your private tours of Ranthambore National Park.
Singapore
Since Singapore is the world’s most expensive city, you’ll undoubtedly find luxury within its borders. Singapore is big on two things: gardens and food. When you’re there, you’ll be spoilt by unparalleled botanical and epicurean experiences. Though Singapore is a bustling metropolitan center, you won’t feel overshadowed by looming skyscrapers – over half of its land is reserved for parks and green space. Visit the Singapore Botanic Gardens, which is the only tropical garden that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also the home of the largest orchid collection, which features their VIP orchids – a collection of specially-grown orchids that are named after dignitaries and visiting celebrities. The futuristic Gardens by the Bay are also not to be missed. Wander Orchard Street for a swanky shopping experience, and eat at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants there. Hotels in Singapore are like nowhere else – they offer a fully integrated guest experience. The hotel at Marina Bay Sands is home to the world’s largest infinity pool, so go for a dip overlooking the splendor of Marina Bay.
Luxury Singapore Tours
This two-week tour of Singapore and Malaysia brings the best of each country to travellers – with a luxurious flair of course! You’ll experience the Singapore Botanic Gardens, take in an expert demonstration of Chinese Calligraphy, and dive headfirst into the culture of Singapore, from Chinatown to Little India.
Antarctica
One of the most expensive trips you can take is to Antarctica. The knowledge that few people have shared this experience makes the air feel rarefied. Because the only people that live on Antarctica are scientists, it is one of the most pristine and secluded places in the world, and one of the most extreme destinations to travel to. The challenge of getting there is the biggest expense, but once you’re there, the foreboding scenery of looming glaciers and icebergs will make it worth every penny. Watch out for swaths of emperor penguins who call the icy landscape home, and go out on an expedition to see more seabirds, seals, and penguins. Certain luxury tours can take you to the most remote places in Antarctica, like Wolf’s Fang peak and the South Pole, and include a stay at a luxury camp.
Luxury Antarctica Tours
If you’re going to shell out on an epic adventure to Antarctica, why not also spend some time in South America too? This 19-day cruise includes plentiful penguin sightings, Zodiak cruising, and exploration of South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. If you’re looking for a true adventure, there’s no better place to find it than Antarctica!
Italian Lake District
Italy’s Lake District boasts deluxe lake-view hotels and villas, and star-studded shores. A frequent vacation spot of celebrities like George Clooney and Richard Branson, it’s also a popular filming location, so don’t be surprised to see celebrities roaming the streets. The villages in the area possess a quiet kind of luxury – become refreshed and rejuvenated here by learning to sail on Lake Como, or go village-hopping by boat. Kick back with a glass of the best wine Italy has to offer, or wander around medieval palazzos that will remind you of the region’s past glamour. This part of Northen Italy, with its clear view of the Alps and its impeccable food, will undoubtedly meet any luxury quotient.
Luxury Italian Lake District Tours
The Italian Lake District is home to some of the most incredible views in the world. This 6-day hiking and trekking tour takes travellers through Lake Como, allowing them incredible experiences like riding a train circa-1908 to the top of Monte Brè, and travelling via private boat to Switzerland.
Caribbean Islands
Amongst the scattering of islands in the Caribbean, there are a few that can offer you an unparalleled experience of exclusive luxury. While all these emerald islands are surrounded by glistening turquoise water, islands like St. Vincent and the Grenadines are untouched by tourists, offering the most idyllic tropical island experience. Other islands are privately owned, like Necker Island, which is owned by businessman Richard Branson. The island is available for booking exclusively, and has hosted former president Obama, as well as numerous members of the British Royal family. Most people get to the islands by sea, and the only other way in is by helicopter. Sailing is a popular activity around these islands, and if you have a boat, island-hopping is a fun way to see the rest of the islands. Regatta season is in full swing starting in January. Save a date for your visit at one of the private resorts on the islands – or, of course, if you buy one, you’re guaranteed access to a stunning tropical island destination whenever you want.
Luxury Caribbean Tours
This 8-day private charter sailing cruise is the height of island luxury! Spend your days lounging on deck, visiting new islands daily, and dipping in pristine blue water to explore the wildlife and environment below the waves. What could possibly be better than that?
Which luxury destination will you treat yourself with in 2019?
