Everyone loves to go on vacation. Taking some time to get away from it all can be one of the highlights of the year. Not only can travelling help you de-stress and unplug from an ever increasingly hectic world, but there are plenty of other incentives:
- Experience other cultures, customs and traditions
- Develop new meaningful relationships
- Spark your adventurous side and push past fears
- Further your hands-on education of geography and history
- Learn more about yourself and your capabilities
If you’re ready to pack your bags and head out on your next international adventure, you’re not alone. The leisure travel industry is booming with access to even more remote and exotic locations. Here’s a snapshot of international leisure travel in 2015 brought to you by The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)’s Tourism Highlights, 2016 Edition.
But let’s face it, we don’t all vacation equally. Where do the wealthy people go? If you just hit the lottery jackpot, or have a lot of spare cash, or simply want to take a trip you can barely afford, we’ve compiled some of the top vacation spots for high-rollers to whet your appetite for extravagance.
Monaco
This breathtaking city on the French Riviera in Western Europe exudes wealth, from its stunning scenery to the plethora of yachts and casinos. Featuring some of the top hotels and restaurants in the world, many of the richest people vacation in Monaco. Plus it’s tax free!
Dubai
This destination is synonymous with luxury. Featuring the world’s tallest tower, a seven-star property, man-made islands, and underwater hotels, Dubai is extravagance at its most extreme. Billionaires, millionaires and those who want to feel rich visit this unique city to witness just how far money and a vivid imagination can go.
The Maldives
The stunning water, gorgeous beaches, and unparalleled seclusion of the Maldives draws in famous celebrities and wealthy unknowns. The world’s most exclusive hotel brands try to outdo each other with luxury, from personal butlers and private lap pools to in-room massages at six-star resorts. Not to mention pillow menus!
Bora Bora
Famous for its aqua-centric luxury resorts, Bora Bora is a popular destination for the rich and for those who want to spend their entire year’s savings in a single weekend. The posh resorts provide vacationers with a glimpse into paradise, featuring private water-side balconies and glass floor viewing panels to watch Bora Bora’s exotic marine life from the comfort of an extravagant bed.
Aspen
Home to some of the most popular ski resorts in the world, Aspen is a common vacation destination for the wealthy and famous. Often referred to as “a playground for the rich,” this Colorado destination is well-known for its luxury boutique shopping and elite culinary scene, in addition to some of the best winter sporting opportunities in the world.
If you’re not quite ready to spend your life’s savings on one of these destinations of the rich and famous, don’t worry! There are plenty of great international destinations that capture the same spirit of adventure and luxury for those of us still on a budget.
According to the European Travel Commission (ETC), Europe continues to remain a ‘hot spot’ for international travelers with continued projected growth in 2016. Here are the most visited European destinations so far for 2016:
Source: European Tourism in 2016: Trends & Prospects (Q1/2016)
Not sure where to go in Europe? There is an abundance of choices with lots to offer – everything from seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland, to world-class skiing in Slovakia, to the fabulous golden beaches of Spain.
Now all you need to do is pack your spirit for adventure and book your flights.