Everyone has their own ideas of what a luxury vacation should involve. If Elon Musk has his way, Mars may soon be the destination de rigeur for leisure seekers.
For now, let’s focus on a few getaways that are a lot more down to earth. Here are some suggestions for a plush getaway that you may not have considered, or even heard about.
Pikaia Lodge – Galapagos
You’ll find Pikaia Lodge perched on top of a volcano in the heart of Darwin’s stomping grounds – the Galapagos Islands. (Here are some great tips for planning your vacation to these amazing islands.)
Designed with eco-conscious travelers in mind, Pikaia Lodge leaves only a tiny carbon footprint on the earth. As such, it isn’t much to look at from the outside, but enter and your impression changes immediately. Everywhere, floor-to-ceiling glass provides panoramic views over this gorgeous stark environment and ocean. beyond.
Here, the top-of-the-range Beach Suite rents at around 10,000 dollars a week. This room features a private plunge pool and deck, a king-size bed, exquisite lounge area, and a 22-meter squared Peruvian marble bathroom. Large, elegant living spaces and a private garden complete the picture.
When you’re not lounging around lapping up the views, take a hike to explore the natural wonders of your surroundings. You can also snorkel in the Pacific, and venture out to sea on one of the resort’s luxury yachts.
Post Ranch Inn – Big Sur, California
At Post Ranch Inn, the no-expense-spared luxury of this grand establishment will fill your heart with joy. If that doesn’t cut it, then the expansive sea views from 1,200 feet above the Pacific surely will. It’s a sight you can enjoy from your King-size bed through the glass walls of your suite, or from your private jetted hot tub on the patio.
Privacy and seclusion are the watchwords at Post Ranch Inn. You won’t find any televisions or alarm clocks here. You will find a minibar stocked with cheese and wine is on hand for fireside snacking. Come dinner time, you can look forward to a series of ever-changing tasting menus crafted from local produce.
If you can tear yourself away from the plush interiors of your room or the resort’s rim flow pools, you can indulge in yoga, hiking or star-gazing on the house. The on-site spa will ensure you look and feel your best throughout your stay.
The price tag for one of these exclusive vacations? Around 4,500 dollars per night.
Africa House at Royal Malewane
With a price tag of almost 20,000 dollars per night, Africa House at Royal Malewane is one of the most expensive places to travel in Africa.
You get what you pay for. The house sports 6 bedrooms and a private rim-flow pool overlooking the wilderness. Each of the rooms has a private outdoor shower, antique furniture, and en-suite bathrooms with Victorian style bathtubs.
Guests at Africa House enjoy game-drive safaris at their leisure. There are no early morning wake up calls here unless you request them. A private tracker, game ranger, and vehicle are at your service, while your private chef and housekeeping team will see to your every need back at home.
Hotel Georges V – Paris, France
If you take a more civilized approach to your vacations, what could be more culturally fulfilling than a trip to Paris? The Hotel Georges V offers the ultimate in sophisticated style in this romantic city, complete with views of the Eiffel Tower.
From the moment you set foot in the marble foyer with its lavish floral arrangements, you’ll know you’re in for a 5-star treat. This hotel is one of France’s most exclusive destinations. All the 244 rooms at Hotel Georges V are plush perfection, but the penthouse outshines all the rest.
This 160-meter squared room is like a palace of your own. Guests enjoy 360-degree views of the Parisian sights. There is a huge marble bathroom with a jet bath and walk-in shower.
The bed is king-sized and clad in the finest linens, and there’s a minibar, plasma screen TV, and even a small library included. The price tag for an exclusive stay in the Penthouse starts at 26,500 dollars per night.
All guests at the Hotel Georges V can take advantage of the 24-hour concierge and around the clock room service. The list of amenities includes all the 5-star services that super vacations are made of.
Necker Island – British Virgin Islands
You know you’ve arrived when you vacation at Sir Richard Branson’s house on the Virgin Islands. For those who can afford the 80,000 dollars a night price tag, Necker Island offers the ultimate exclusive and private getaway.
The accommodation sleeps up to 22 guests in 11 bedrooms and a bunk room for up to 6 extra children. The luxurious Great House or Beach House set the scene for 5-star dining. You can also request meals on Turtle Beach or grab a bite from the floating sushi bar in the pool area.
The Great House features hammocks and sofas for relaxing and a 4-person jetted spa on the roof. You’ll see lemurs, tortoises, and flamingos on your walks around this private paradise or you can arrange to meet them at feeding time.
The immaculately decorated rooms all feature private balconies and huge en-suite bathrooms. The penthouse has large outdoor spa bath to lap up the Caribbean views as you relax in style.
Water skiing, kayaking, sailing, kite-surfing, and stand up paddle-boarding are all on offer. On land, you can relax on white-sand beaches, take part in organized beach games or tackle a game of tennis. Underwater fascinations include snorkeling and scuba diving.
You can party up a storm with pre-arranged theme evenings then recharge with a yoga class or a spa treatment by day.
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