Vacation should be a time to relax and enjoy doing some of your favorite activities. It's also a great opportunity to try new things and indulge in some fun and memorable experiences. But traveling in luxury offers a whole new level of experience. It's all about experiencing the best of the best, from personalized services to gourmet meals and extravagant accommodations.
So, if you have the cash to splash, why not treat yourself to some of the world's most luxurious destinations? Below, we've rounded up the top five luxury destinations that are truly worth the splurge.
Provence
Famous for its culture and exquisite cuisines, Provence is an excellent alternative to Paris for a luxury escape to France. Beyond the endless choice of luxury hotels, Provence is an enchanting destination with a stunning landscape that has lured generations of great artists. From the gleaming Côte d’Azur to the majestic peak of Mont Ventoux, Provence is definitely a better alternative to the often-overcrowded city of Paris.
If you're into culture and history, then you will love exploring the picturesque towns of Provence. Some of these towns date back to the Roman period and are home to some ancient cultural sites. Check out the Théâtre antique d'Orange, a Roman theatre built around the 1st Century AD that's still largely intact. For those who love nature, Provence offers many things for you to explore, from lush pine forests to scented lavender fields and beautiful olive groves.
Provence is home to extraordinary landmarks. A visit to the imposing Pont du Gard tower is a must. This three-tiered Roman aqueduct has been beautifully preserved and traverses the River Gard at the height of 50 metres. End your day with a leisurely stroll along the winding streets of Avignon or the charming Old Town of Nice.
The Galapagos
The Galápagos Islands, located off the coast of Ecuador, is a long-desired destination for those who love nature and wildlife. Offering a fascinating open-air wildlife museum experience, The Galapagos is not like any other place on Earth. The islands are home to an astonishing array of endemic species and are among the few places on Earth where visitors can observe exotic wildlife up-close.
The best way to explore the magical islands of the Galapagos is to go on a luxury cruise aboard the best expedition ships. Book a luxury small group cruise that starts and ends with stays at Ecuador's most lavish accommodations. You can also opt for a customized cruise to the magical islands, exclusively designed for your group, here.
Aside from exploring the Galápagos, consider visiting off-the-beaten-path destinations in Ecuador, such as the Tagus Cove and Punta Vicente Roca on Isabela Island. You can also choose to explore Punta Espinoza on Fernandina Island, where you can interact with flamingos and the Galápagos penguins, said to be the smallest species of penguin in the world.
Turkey's Bozburun Peninsula
Straddling across a forested coastline towards the nearby Aegean Islands, the Bozburun Peninsula is one of Turkey's most picturesque destinations. With its sheltered coves, azure bays, and olive groves set beneath lush mountains, Bozburun Peninsula will make your luxury vacation a truly memorable one. Even when you visit at the peak of summer, the beaches remain peaceful here, with village life geared towards fishing, agriculture, and the production of the gulet, a traditional wooden sailing vessel.
Stay at a luxury villa on your holiday to the Bozburun Peninsula and immerse yourself in the peaceful rural life of Turkey. You will have plenty of options for your luxury accommodations. Some of these villas have private pools that open to the spectacular views of the peninsula and dramatic vistas of valleys and seas. During your downtime, witness the golden sunset from your terrace or hang out at one of the cozy beachside cafes.
Spain's Balearic Islands
The Balearic Islands are known for their laidback and breezy charm. While the islands are more famous for their vibrant nightlife, they offer a wealth of experiences geared towards luxury travelers. Each of the islands has its own charm and feel. From the hedonistic vibe of Ibiza to the dreamy vistas of Menorca, the Balearic Islands are a great destination to consider for your luxury vacation in Spain.
In each of the islands of the Balearic, you will find lavish villas, most of which overlook the gorgeous views of the Mediterranean Sea. If you're looking to treat yourself to a taste of the five-star lifestyle, stay at Casa Conchica, one of the best places for villa holidays in 2022. Tucked in the verdant greens of Mallorca, this lavish accommodation offers ultimate comfort and relaxation. In Ibiza, you will find modern designed holiday villas perched high up on the hill overlooking the deep blue waters. These villas are equipped with modern amenities, including heated pools that open to the most breath-taking views.
Seychelles
If you want to seek paradise on your luxury holiday, Seychelles is the best place to be. Here, you can explore miles of flawless white sand beaches and diverse tropical landscapes. Set in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 beautiful islands. Victoria, the capital city, located on the main island of Mahe, is known for its colonial charm. Initially settled by the French in 1778 before the British came in 1841, the city has a rich mix of cultures that has given this city a deep historical significance.
For some fun adventures, dive amid shipwrecks and colorful marine life or visit nature reserves home to rare animals, such as the giant Aldabra tortoises. Hike through the mountain rainforest of Morne Seychellois National Park, where you will find mangrove forests and the country's highest peak.
Offering a variety of lavish accommodations, from rooms fitted with contemporary decor to villas that open to unsurpassed views of the Indian Ocean, your holiday to Seychelles is one that you will never forget. To make the most of your holiday, stay at the luxurious Raffles Seychelles and enjoy direct access to the beautiful sandy beaches of Praslin Island.
