From relaxing in high-quality accommodations to visiting scenic destinations, premium travel offers much to enjoy. This is why it’s no surprise that the luxury travel segment was a $239 billion industry in 2023, with consulting firm McKinsey predicting that it could grow further to $391 billion by 2028.
Luxury holidays aren't just about travel, however. They also provide a great way to explore your favorite hobbies in a new location, especially if you’re a poker enthusiast. After all, several top luxury travel destinations are also home to exclusive card rooms and high-stakes tournaments where visitors can play poker. This is usually why luxury travel often goes hand-in-hand with the poker hobby, whether you’re visiting a country for a tournament or simply playing for fun. Below, we take a look at exciting destinations where you can blend luxury travel with your love for the card game.
Montenegro is a small Southeastern European country that, despite its size, is filled with tons to do and experience. From touring bays via boat to exploring renowned towns like Perast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a visit to the country is jam-packed with activities. For gaming enthusiasts, Montenegro is also the location for a major tournament organized by Americas Cardroom, a leading American online poker platform. Americas Cardroom’s High Stakes Adventure, which guarantees two all-inclusive packages each covering $110,000 in buy-ins and a five-night luxurious stay at the legendary Maestral Resort & Casino, provides a unique opportunity for players to participate in the Super High Roller Series event in Montenegro. It’s a good way to enjoy Montenegro’s vibrant destinations and thriving poker landscape.
Home to approximately 700 islands, the Bahamas is a treasure trove of premium adventures that give the island nation a leg up on luxury. You can stay at the Ocean Club, a Four Seasons Resort considered one of the most exclusive properties in the world, and snorkel or get a nice tan on a rare pink sand beach on Harbour Island. The Bahamas is also a perfect spot for poker enthusiasts, especially since it houses the world-famous Atlantis Casino, which hosts major tournaments such as PokerStars’ Caribbean Adventure. The Atlantis Resort also offers table games like Caribbean Stud Poker, Texas Hold ‘Em, and Let It Ride Poker for casual gamers.
Monaco is easy to associate with luxury living. After all, it is home to Formula 1 Grand Prix events. It also houses the Place du Casino, a world-renowned square where visitors can enjoy a luxurious dining experience at the Café de Paris Monte-Carlo, which draws inspiration from the classic French brasserie. The Place du Casino also offers stunning views of the Casino de Monte-Carlo, a favorite hub for poker enthusiasts who wish to play the card game during their premium holiday. Monte-Carlo also hosts the annual European Poker Tour (EPT) Grand Finale. This year, PokerStars’ EPT Circuit is set to take place in Monte-Carlo from April 30 to May 10.
Spain offers a plethora of luxurious travel experiences, from dining in Michelin-starred restaurants like El Bajío in Madrid to riding a hot air balloon in Segovia, a city rich in renowned historic landmarks. In the Catalan capital, Barcelona, visitors can splurge on Passeig de Gràcia, where flagship stores of luxury brands such as Chanel and Gucci are located. But did you know that Barcelona is also home to major poker events? In fact, it hosts the Catalunya Poker Tour and the Campeonato España de Poker. The Casino Barcelona also offers cash games and daily tourneys, making Barcelona the ultimate destination for luxury travelers who are passionate about the card game.
Luxury travel is the perfect way to combine premium holiday experiences with your love for poker, especially with many destinations offering unique opportunities to play the card game in style. Check out the Luxury Travel Magazine website for more stories on luxury lifestyle and travel.
