Your Ultimate Luxury Vacation Playbook

Time is the one thing you can’t buy back. But you can certainly change how you spend it. 

So when you’re finally able to take time off, make it count. And for many travelers these days, that means going on a luxury vacation.

Why Luxury Travel Is on the Rise

Today’s luxury traveler isn’t necessarily the typical high-net-worth individual. 

Although HNWIs certainly make up a big portion of the luxury travel market, aspiring luxury travelers occupy the other portion of this thriving market. Aspiring luxury travelers tend to have an income between $100,000 and $1 million, and most are young people who will not think twice about spending big on upscale travel options.

Travelers also have plenty of options when it comes to lavish accommodations. The usual luxury destinations may be ritzy hotels in Paris, palatial villas in Marrakech, or ultra-exclusive ski lodges in St. Moritz. 

But the upscale hospitality market has opened up to a variety of accommodations, such as luxury vacation rentals in Costa Rica, off-the-grid homes in California, or underwater suites in Tanzania. 

A posh price tag no longer defines luxury vacations, but these do:

• Authentic experiences—travelers are favoring uncharted destinations, like Los Sueños, Costa Rica, in search of enriching experiences relevant to the city or island. 

• Privacy—With opulent vacation rentals, today’s luxury travelers have the entire property to themselves. There is no crowding at the pool or noise to intrude on one’s appreciation of a spectacular view.

• Personalization—Exclusive-use residences offer a “home away from home” experience while delivering hotel-style amenities, including concierge services that create hyper-personalized experiences.

Finding Your Luxury Vacation Rental

Although there’s nothing wrong with booking a ritzy hotel stay, an upscale vacation rental will give you more room, more privacy, and customization. But where do you start?

Choose the type of vacation rental.

Luxury vacation rental properties come in different packages, and each one will depend on their location. Your options include:

• Cozy lodges, typically mountain retreats that offer posh interiors with million-dollar views.

• Countryside estates usually feature expansive wine cellars, private lakes, and grand gardens.

• Urban penthouses, located in city centers, offer contemporary architecture and sweeping skyline views.

• Beachfront villas with private beach access provide a tranquil coastal atmosphere with upscale interiors.

Where would you like to spend more time during your time off: the mountains, the city, or the beach?

Consider lesser-known destinations because they will likely be less crowded during peak season and offer more unique experiences.

Determine your needs during this luxury vacation.

Are you traveling alone or with a group of friends? Other than the need to recharge and relax, what are you hoping to get out of this luxury vacation?

Many travelers are prioritizing wellness, seeking destinations and places that offer what’s called “silver bullet wellness,” such as detoxing retreats and personalized roadmaps.  Others want to explore new places and discover new experiences, whereas some just want to savor the journey, favoring what’s referred to as “slow travel.”

Your destination and vacation rental must be able to deliver on what you seek. Whether you’re solo traveling or enjoying the trip with others, figure out your needs.

Next, consider your non-negotiables. If you want a gourmet kitchen, an in-house spa or an outdoor lounge with a fire pit, and a high-end bathroom, make sure your vacation rental has them.

Think “calm-cation.”

Peace and quiet are big contributors to good health. 

The world is becoming an increasingly noisy place, as demonstrated by relentless construction, car alarms in crowded urban environments, and phone notifications going off in public places. Exposure to excessive noise has been linked to cardiovascular disease, anxiety and depression, and even hearing loss.

You need to switch off and rest. For anyone who hasn’t had the time to do so, it would be a luxury to get some “calm-cation.” Restful retreats have been growing in popularity, allowing the hospitality industry to design vacations that deliver true relaxation.

You can choose from off-grid getaways, super exclusive villas in secluded locations, or peaceful villages that are off the tourist’s radar.

The goal here is to switch off from the constant stimulation of the modern world, to mindfully be present where you are, and to appreciate the slowness and solitude of your vacation.

Don’t overlook your budget.

Yes, even the aspiring luxury traveler is still wealthy. But that doesn’t mean that the “money’s no object” principle of spending applies to an upscale retreat. 

You can still enjoy all the luxuries this type of vacation offers without breaking the bank. Consider the location, size, and amenities of the luxury vacation rental because they all affect the price.

Consult with high-end travel agencies.

Finally, we end with making the most of your valuable time. High-end travel agencies have insider access to the most exclusive places and experiences. They offer expert advice, helping you make the finest choices for your luxury vacation. And they’ll handle all the logistics, taking out the stress from planning. 

All you have to do is choose and show up for your time off.