Travelling within the United States, one can find 5 Star accommodations, Michelin Star awarded dining establishments and impeccable service. But travelling outside of the US opens up whole new levels of luxury combined with history, culture and the ability to have completely new experiences in different parts of the world. As long as you have a Passport, a credit card and the desire to visit new places, international travel is as easy as buying the plane tickets and booking your stay. There are, however, certain destinations, and modes of travel, that can provide an elevated travel experience.
Start with sparing no expense on the airfare and any accompanying travel plans. Flying First Class on an international flight will allow you to start experiencing luxury before you ever leave the ground. Let the airline pamper you, wine you, dine you and make sure that you have a comfortable and restful journey. As far as your arrival, the accommodations you choose can have a huge impact on your overall international travel experience. Make sure to read reviews and utilize personal recommendations. Lastly, look ahead to make reservations for dining that you don’t want to miss. Last minute reservations can be difficult to get, and we all know that eating is a wonderful way to experience another country and their culture.
It is said that the skyscrapers in Hong Kong have all been designed according to the rules of Feng Shui. A trip to the densely populated metropolis offers a glimpse into one of Asia’s oldest and most famous regions. We recommend staying at either the Four Seasons Hong Kong or the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong. Both offer luxurious suites and spectacular views.
This island in Indonesia offers travelers the perfect blend of 5 Star Service and unparalleled spirituality. Experience enlightenment in a country so picturesque, you’ll think you’ve died and gone to heaven. We recommend staying at the Amankila which sits seaside or the Bulgari Resort, nestled into the cliffs. You can’t go wrong with the views or the service at either destination.
When someone mentions the Maldives, the first thing that comes to everyone’s minds are rustic bungalows perched above turquoise waters, with gorgeous views as far as the eyes can see. There is no better way to spend your time than enjoying the amenities such as lounging on the deck of your bungalow, getting massages and facials at an award-winning spa and eating 5 Star cuisine. The St. Regis Vommuli Resort is the perfect place to do all three.
Located in one of the richest countries in the world, Dubai is the quintessential display of luxury and excess. For those who live in Dubai, the best of everything is a way of life, and to visit this beautiful city is an experience like no other. The ultimate in luxury accommodations in Dubai can be found at the unsurpassed Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. It is complete with gorgeous suites and a private beach. This resort defines 5 Star.
India is one of the oldest, and certainly most populated countries in the world. It is also the 6th wealthiest country in the world and this is shown through the country’s many elaborate palaces, some of which have been turned into world class resorts. Reserve your stay at the Rambagh Palace, Jaipur and experience what India considers to be the epitome of luxury. Dine at Steam, an upscale restaurant nestled into a restored steam train alongside a Victorian-style station.
For those that know, Cambodia offers some of the most beautiful views in the world and much untouched landscape. It is Thailand’s less popular neighbor but is quickly becoming a destination for the rich and famous. Stay at the unparalleled Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang and don’t miss dinner at Malis in Siem Reap, or a single Cambodian sunset while you’re there.
Often overlooked, Banff National Park in Canada is one of the most beautiful places in the world. The ultimate way to experience this region is by travelling from Fairmont to Fairmont. There are various tours that include excursions and stays at the Fairmont Banff Springs, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Some love this trip in the winter while some prefer it in warmer weather. Either way, it is one of the most beautiful places you will ever experience.
Experience the natural beauty and immense history in Hungary’s capital city. With its old-world architecture, restored historic hotels and elevated local cuisine, Budapest has all you need for a memorable trip. We recommend staying at the Four Seasons Gresham Palace. Make sure to have dinner at Costes Restaurant. And no trip to Budapest would be complete without a dip in a few of the city’s 80 geothermal springs.
There are always the obvious choices for international travel, like Paris and Italy, St. Thomas and Riviera Maya. But for those who truly love experiencing something new and different, try one of these less commercialized destinations. Staying at a palace in India or a historic building in Budapest is international luxury travel at its finest. Dining at upscale restaurants where chefs have mastered local Cambodian or Indian fare are once in a lifetime experiences. Touring the stunning Canadian Rockies or shopping in the diamond encrusted city of Dubai will leave you yearning for the new and undiscovered. Get to planning. An amazing adventure is only a plane ticket away.