Luxury Holiday
Overwater villas, Michelin restaurants and butler service: The most exclusive destinations for discerning travellers.
What Makes Luxury Travel Special
Luxury travel is not just about expensive hotels – it is about unique experiences, personal service and the little details that make the difference. The butler who knows your favourite tea, the private dinner on the beach at sunset, the helicopter transfer instead of a taxi.
Luxury in travel has evolved. Today it is less about ostentation and more about exclusivity, privacy and experiences money alone cannot buy.
This guide shows you the most coveted luxury destinations, gives insider tips on smart booking and helps you plan the perfect indulgent getaway.
The 6 Most Exclusive Luxury Destinations
From tropical private islands to alpine grand hotels – the best of the best awaits.
Maldives
MaldivesThe epicentre of luxury tourism: private island resorts, overwater villas with butler service, underwater restaurants and ocean spa.
Highlights:
Dubai
UAEThe city of superlatives: the world's only 7-star hotel, artificial islands, desert resorts and top-tier shopping.
Highlights:
Cote d'Azur
FranceNice, Cannes, Monaco, Saint-Tropez – Mediterranean flair meets haute couture, Michelin restaurants and legendary beach clubs.
Highlights:
Tuscany
ItalyLuxury the Italian way: historic wine estates as boutique hotels, private cooking classes with starred chefs and truffle hunts in Chianti.
Highlights:
Bora Bora
French PolynesiaThe Pearl of the Pacific: a volcanic island surrounded by the world's most beautiful lagoon. The epitome of tropical luxury.
Highlights:
Swiss Alps
SwitzerlandAlpine grand hotels with centuries of tradition: Gstaad, St Moritz, Zermatt – luxury against a breathtaking mountain backdrop.
Highlights:
Luxury Destinations Compared
| Destination | Budget | Getting There | Season | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maldives | $$$$ | 10h flight | Nov–Apr | Island luxury |
| Dubai | $$$$ | 6h flight | Oct–Apr | City & Desert |
| Cote d'Azur | $$$$ | 1.5h flight | May–Oct | Riviera glamour |
| Tuscany | $$$ | 2h flight | Apr–Oct | Gourmet luxury |
| Bora Bora | $$$$ | 22h flight | May–Oct | Tropical paradise |
| Swiss Alps | $$$$ | 4h car | Year-round | Alpine grand hotels |
Insider Tips for Smart Luxury Travel
Book luxury hotels directly
Booking directly often brings upgrades, included breakfast and better cancellation terms.
Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts
With an American Express Platinum, you automatically get room upgrades, late check-out and hotel credit.
Use the off-season
Many luxury resorts offer rates 50-60% below peak season – with the same service.
Use loyalty programmes
Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, Hyatt – loyalty programmes offer suite upgrades and lounge access.
Pre-book private transfers
Book a private transfer at your destination airport. Hotels often organise this for free.
Contact the concierge in advance
Write to the concierge before arrival. Special requests are almost always fulfilled.
Ready for Pure Luxury?
Discover the world's most exclusive destinations and treat yourself to the very best.