What does it take to craft the best luxury experiences that life has to offer? The client must have the ultimate experience – of comfort, service and effortlessness. Maximum output, minimum input. This is the essence of luxury, and applies to the experiences on this list.
Given the stress of the past few years, now would be the perfect time to unwind, let loose, and truly enjoy the best of what life has to offer. Whether you are traveling with family, planning an opulent retirement trip, or simply appreciate the comfort and ease associated with such experiences, there are countless opportunities to live it up in luxury around the world.
The best luxury experiences in the world offer something for everybody; a shopping trip in New York, a helicopter ski trip in the frozen ice sheets of Antarctica, and a best-of-both worlds golf/safari in South Africa.
Americas
Unforgettable Luxury Cruise on the Amazon
If you fancy yourself an explorer, consider a cruise on a state-of-the-art luxury expedition vessel. Complete with 5-star dining, daily guided expeditions and panoramic views of the Amazon, life onboard the Aria Amazon or Aqua Nera vessels is sure to be equal parts plush and exciting.
The luxurious experience consists of cruising deep into the Amazon for 3, 4 or 7 days, all whilst marveling at some of the most diverse wildlife in the world, from Toucans to Piranhas to rare pink Dolphins. If you are a lover of wildlife and want to closely experience them in luxury, look no further.
We’d recommend trying to Book the newly built Aqua Nera, as it offers 20 suites to the Aria Amazon’s 16, and comes with updated amenities and luxuries.
Prices start at ~ 3,200$ for a 3-day cruise
Call +44 12 2360 9669 to book your trip
Or click here to learn more.
French Fine Dining Excellence in Napa Valley
The legendary French Laundry in Napa Valley is a must-try if you have a penchant for some of the most exquisite dining in the US. As the name suggests, the 3-Star Michelin restaurant serves French cuisine designed by legendary chef Thomas Keller for whom 3 Michelin stars is simply not enough. He has amassed a stunning 7 from his restaurants The French Laundry, Per Se and Surf Club.
The French Laundry has maintained its 3-star rating since 2006, a testament to its commitment to creating the best food in the world. The menu changes daily, which ensures that one’s dining experience is ever the same. Reservations are notoriously hard to get, with a month’s reservations reportedly selling out in as little as 20 seconds.
Some Amex Platinum card holders have reported booking successfully using the Amex Concierge, even when the restaurant was otherwise sold out.
Prices start at 390$ per person, with menu add-ons costing extra
Visit the Website
Or reserve a time with Tock
An Extravagant Train-ride Through the Peruvian Highlands
The Andean Explorer is the train equivalent of a first class plane ticket, complete with excellent service and fine living. Whilst certainly not as fast as a plane, it allows for a greater sense of intimacy and connection with the Peruvian mountains within which it travels.
The journeys upon the Andean Explorer are touted as being some of the highest elevation train rides in the world, which means stunning panoramic views of the Peruvian lakes and mountains.
The sense of occasion is elevated by the offerings on board, including a spa and piano bar. The contemporary on-board cabins offer either a double twin or suite configuration, with the latter being a respectable 141 square feet (13.1 meters squared) in area.
The premier offering is the 2-night “Peruvian Highlands” ride from Cusco – Puno – Arequipa. All meals are included, and you won’t want to miss them as they are highly sophisticated Andean specialties.
The itinerary also makes room for a boat ride to artificial islands and a tour of the Sumbay caves, known for having cave paintings from as long as 8000 years ago. For just a two night trip, this is one of the most unique and densely-packed journeys, making it one of the best luxury experiences available.
Two-person suite cabins on the Cusco – Puno – Arequipa route start at ~7,700$
Learn more or book a trip here
Family-friendly Outdoor Adventure in the Montana Highlands
When you’ve had enough of the bustle of the city, or want to spend time with family, consider doing it in the mountains of Montana at a full-service activity resort. An example 5-day itinerary at the 37,000 acre Paws Up resort sees guests; trail-hiking before to a prepared picnic, riding horses in the open plains east of the Rockies, kayaking, getting lucky with fly-fishing and more.
The vacation is designed to be a choose-your-adventure type of itinerary, so guests can plan their activities. If you really don’t want to fish, there is plenty else do. It’s a perfect destination for those traveling with energetic kids, as all the adventure will keep them busy and tired. Picnics and barbecues are arranged, so you kids will never complain about being hungry.
Booking prices start at ~11,950$ for 2 adults and 2 children (based on 5 night itinerary)
Call +44 203 848 5424
Or visit Pelorusx to learn more
Art-Nouveau Luxury Shopping Experience in New York City
Those seeking the high-paced life and glamour of a high-end city can choose to come to the Mark Hotel in New York City, an exclusive and well-known luxury hotel that incorporates an avant-garde style seamlessly with the requirements expected of a high end hotel in “The City”.
To utilize New York’s position as a global fashion capital, one can use the concierge in the Mark Hotel and gain exclusive perks in Bergdorf Goodman, a premier shopping destination featured in media such as Ocean’s 8 and Sex in the City.
The Mark Hotel concierge can provide personal shoppers and help source exclusive items for its patrons who enjoy finer things. The hotel comes equipped with a modicum of other amenities; a caviar bar, hair salon, 5-star in-room dining and more.
The Mark has played host to some of the most famous names in fashion, and is in especially high demand during the Met Gala, where the likes of Bella Hadid and Simone Ashley stay. Few hotels can boast such a resume, ensuring that a night (or two) at the Mark is one of the best luxury experiences available in New York.
Rooms start at ~1,375$ per night, click here for bookings and updated pricing
Or visit the website to learn more
Europe
Idyllic Supercar Tour Through Europe to the Monaco Grand Prix
For the car enthusiast – you have found the ultimate experience. This epic 745 mile (1200km) Grand Tour takes place across 6 countries in Europe over the course of 11 days, ending with possibly the most prestigious motorsports event on the globe, the Monte Carlo Grand Prix. The drive is done in small groups and on the best roads in Europe, letting you do what you love alongside others.
Those who decide to embark on such an adventure have the pleasure of choosing from the finest supercars to accompany them, from the supermodel Ferrari 488 to the sumptuous Bentley Continental GT.
Those craving 12 cylinder weapons have a choice of the 812 Superfast or the Aventador S. Guests will also stay at 5-star hotels and dine in Michelin star restaurants during their drive to Monaco.
To add to the incredible experience, guests can even opt-in to drive a former F1 car in France. Of all the best luxury experiences, for car enthusiasts, there is simply no better option. You even get to watch the Grand Prix from a super yacht. If that doesn’t stir your soul, nothing will.
Prices start at 25,990$ for a driver and an accompanying passenger
Click here to visit Ultimate Driving Tours and book a time for 2024
Out-of-This-World Luxury Balloon Ride
The blue orb, a place you spent your whole life on. Now, sprawled in front of you for the first time, the horizon arching trepidatiously as you gaze upon the vast yet fragile beauty of it. Few have ever seen such a poetic sight with their own eyes, yet this luxury experience offered by Zephalto sees guests travel to 82,000 feet (25,000 meters) to gaze upon Earth.
During the 1.5 hour ascent, you will be bathed in french luxury on a space balloon developed in collaboration with the French Space Agency, Airbus and the EESA.
The Trip takes a total of 6 hours, with guests being able to enjoy the surreal views of Earth from a large window for a total of 3 hours. The experience also comes with a gourmet pre-flight meal, a wine tasting during the ascent, and stratospheric photography upon reaching the apogee (the highest point).
In that moment, you will be one of only a few people who have ever laid their eyes on the beauty of Earth from such a position, and one of only 6 in the balloon.
Flights are scheduled to start in 2024 from France, but you can choose to pre-book your seat for a deposit of 10,000€ (10,600 USD) and secure your spot on this exclusive luxury adventure.
The price per seat is 120,000€ or ~126,000$
Visit Zephalto to learn more and book your journey
Elegant Wine Tour in Bordeaux
If you prefer to keep your two feet on the ground, then consider this cultural and gastronomic wine tour in Bordeaux. The region’s vineyards, chalets and castles will keep you entertained as you are chauffeured in a Mercedes from your 5-star hotel to a private wine tasting, Michelin-star meal and to a helicopter flight over select vineyards. Not a bad way to way to spend a couple of days, eh?
All itineraries are personalized and focus heavily on providing an ideal wine-tasting experience. This means that food pairings are carefully chosen and served during the tour. That being said, even a pre-made tour will do an excellent job in satisfying the wine and culinary aficionados. Unless that is, you don’t like dining on oysters in the “Hamptons of France”, or being served by a private chef and butler at a wine chateaux. Your call.
Prices start at ~844$ per day for the 4-star experience
The 5-star experience starts at ~1055$
Visit Cellar Tours to create a custom itinerary
Full-Service Chalet in the Glamorous French Alps
Amidst the snow-capped alps lies Courchevel, a high-end skiing resort town, complete with an indoor waterpark, spa and even its own airport. If you are looking for a winter skiing destination for the upcoming season, it may just be the place to go.
Courchevel has a total of 96 runs spread across 4 levels, with Courchevel 1850 being both the highest point, the resort center and the most glamorous location. What better way then to experience the French Alps than staying a week in a fully catered Chalet, situated at the top of Courchevel Village and offering easy access to all the slopes in the area, including 1850?
The ski-in, ski-out chalet comes with a catered breakfast and dinner, as well as packed lunches on 6/7 days, letting you explore the fine dining options available in Courchevel on the free day. The chalet sleeps 10, and offers various luxurious amenities such as an outdoor hot-tub and concierge. The experience also comes with various other bonuses, like discounts on equipment, lessons, and airport transfers.
After a long day of skiing, the chalet offers various forms of entertainment such as Netflix, gaming consoles and blu-ray movies. If that doesn’t strike your fancy, you can explore the activities available in Courchevel, including; boutique shopping, aprés ski events or the world-class Courchevel Aquamotion, the aforementioned indoor waterpark and spa.
There is a lot of luxury packed into a trip to the French Alps, and is the perfect experience for a larger group of friends, family or a combination of the two.
Prices start at ~12,960$ for an in-season, 10 person booking.
To see the latest pricing and learn more, click here
Africa
Family-Friendly Big 5 Safari in Kenya and Tanzania
If your children have been pining to see the famous animals of Africa, and you want to them to have a memory of a lifetime, perhaps a luxury safari in Kenya and Tanzania is just what you need. This twelve day safari offered by Abercrombie and Kent has you marveling at the “Big 5” of Africa in care-free luxury.
The safari has you visiting big game reserves in , giraffe sanctuaries in Kenya, an ancient volcano crater in Tanzania, and staying in five star resorts and lodges.
This, combined with a “Child Activity Coordinator”, bellboy, laundry service and prepared breakfasts provided by A&K ensure you will worry less and enjoy the experience more. Your kids can enhance their knowledge about Africa’s most well-known animals with the help of in-person interaction and the information provided by expert guides.
This trip is perfect to give your kids an experience they will talk about endlessly, and help them become more knowledgeable learners. All with less stress than traveling with kids usually entails.
Prices start at 12,795$ per person. Child’s minimum age is 5.
Call 800 554 7016 to connect with a travel advisor
Or visit A&K to learn more
Conservation Conscious Luxury Adventure in Namibia
If are looking for the best luxury experiences in Africa that aren’t safaris, an adventure in Namibia might just be for you. Namibia is famed for its varying landscapes, including the vast deserts, large canyons, and beautiful plateau’s filled with wildlife.
The adventure sees your first 2 days spent in the Kulala Wilderness Reserve, spending your time quad-biking, horse-riding and enjoying game drives – open air tours of wildlife within the reserve. During days 3-4, guests travel to the Doro Nawas camp, a location with panoramic views of the Etendeka mountains. Activities there include stargazing, nature walks and exploring the striking environment
Days 5-7 has you visiting the fragile ecosystem of the Skeleton Coast, where you will spend time exploring and learning from guides, visiting the rugged coastline and enjoying prepared picnics. Conservation plays and important role in the tour, and includes education for guests to learn about the impact of conservation in Namibia.
If you care about responsible eco-tourism, this is definitely an excellent choice for experiencing the beauty of Namibia’s nature in a responsible manner.
Prices start at 10,500$ per person (itinerary described above may come at additional cost)
Learn more at Elevated Destinations
High-End Golfing Near a Big 5 Reserve in South Africa
Beat the winter blues with a trip to a golf course near one of the most famous safari parks in the world. At Leopard’s creek, golf takes on a unique character, with some of South Africa’s most famous animals being spotted frequently on the links. Just try not to slice a drive into a Lion’s crocodile’s backyard, and you’ll thoroughly enjoy this experience.
Not only do you get to spend time playing in one of the best luxury golf courses, designed by Gary Player and host to the Alfred Dunhill Challenge, you also have the privilege of engaging on safari tours in Kruger National Park. It is one of the oldest and largest game reserves in Africa.
Guests have a choice of high-end lodges approved by Leopard Creek, with Buhala Lodge being the closest to the golf course. This 5-star accommodation overlooks the Kruger National Park, giving you stunning landscape and wildlife views. The idyllic location allows easy access to the golf course and the national park, ensuring you don’t run out of things to do during your stay.
Amenities in the Buhala Lodge include a bush spa and private guides for the national park, along with the option to dine under the stars whilst sampling fine wine. Even if your scorecard doesn’t live up to your expectations, the stunning nature and wildlife and Leopard Creek certainly will
Price on request – visit Golf Traveler to learn more
Track Gorillas and Monkeys at This Unique Rwandanese Lodge
Gorillas are pretty cool. If you want a laser-focused luxury experience on these fascinating creatures, then the Virunga Lodge gorilla safari experience is for you. This resort was featured on Travel+Leisure’s “World’s Best Awards 2023”, and is widely considered as one of the best safari lodges in all of Africa.
The highly private lodge comes with only 10 rooms, private butlers and complimentary spa treatments, ensuring maximum levels of service and comfort.
The main, magical event involves a maximum group of 8 people tracking the activities and movements of a specific gorilla and can take anywhere from 3 to 8 hours. Volcanoes Safaris recommends a basic level of fitness and agility, but nonetheless encourages all those who want this awe-inspiring experience to attempt it. Guests can also track the rare and elusive golden money, and climb a volcano
Prices start at 1730$ per person for a Standard Banda
Click here to view updated prices (2024, 2025 and beyond)
Design a Trip Around the Best That Egypt Has to Offer
There is a lot to see and do in Egypt. Between its famous pyramids, the legendary Nile, and busy street markets of Cairo, it can be hard to decide what to do there, especially if you are attempting to get the best luxury experience possible.
If that is the case, then let the pros do the work and enjoy experiences such; as a hot air balloon ride over Luxor – a location famed for its ancient archeological sites, sailing up the Nile in an opulent vessel or choose to explore the many famed destinations within Egypt, such as Wadi El Rayan. There’s also skydiving over the Pyramid of Giza, if you’re into that.
Clients can expect the best accommodation in Egypt, such as the St Regis Cairo, the Al Moudira, a boutique hotel in Luxor, or enjoy the sumptuous life aboard an eclectic river boat with 14 plush suites available. It really is up to you, and your advisors will work with you every step of the way to make an unforgettable experience
Learn more at Pelorusx
Asia
Spend A Week at the Exclusive Datai Resort
The prestigious Datai resort is a beautiful tropical destination located a 40-minute drive away from the Langkawi International Airport in Malaysia. The resort has 121 rooms, ranging from a 678 square foot (68m2) suite to a colossal 37,600 square foot (3,500 m2) villa that sleep 15. It offers a laid-back lifestyle with daily guided nature walks, a spa and a pool. For those looking for a little more to do, you can visit the award winning Els Club golf course.
The Datai also has its very own mile (1.6km) long private beach for lounging in the equatorial heat. When you get too hot and want to cool down, there are plenty of complimentary water activities, such as windsurfing, kayaking and snorkeling.
The luxury and focus on exceptional service let you relax and focus on yourself, learning skills such as cooking in the classes provided by the resort. Nurture your well-being and connection with nature in this award-winning resort.
Prices start at 2,500 MYR (~530$) for two adults
Visit The Datai to learn more
Or click here to check availability
Japanese Tranquility and Rejuvenation in a Onsen-Inspired Resort
Japan is well-known for being one of the most technological societies on the planet. The ultra-fast superconducting maglev train and the neon billboard of Shibuya are good examples of this. But perhaps the best luxury experiences in Japan are the ones which embrace the Japanese values of refinement, subtlety and tranquility. The Amanemu resort in the hills of Ise-Shima embodies these qualities.
The Amanemu resort then is a place where people come to escape tension. Life happens at a slower pace, with activities like flower arranging, premium sake tasting or golf. The accommodations, a choice of either a villa or a suite, are a blend of Japanese Zen and contemporary finishings. The resort is designed to put you at ease, with every stay including access to the onsen and spa facilities.
The dining is unsurprisingly exquisite. Little can go wrong with an emphasis on fresh, local produce and meals inspired by Japan’s heritage.
Prices start at ~1470$ per night, depending on exchange rates
Visit Amanemu’s website to reserve a room
Intimate Luxury Grand Tour of India
India is a vast country, brimming with culture and tradition. If you wish to experience the best of what the country has to offer, consider a fully-personalized itinerary. Visits to a country can often be surface-level due to the inexperience of the traveler, or the rushed nature of the itinerary. Thus, a customized travel plan will have you seeing India on your own terms, with a little help from the experts of course.
An example of such an itinerary would be a 16 day experience starting in Kerala, visiting Mumbai Varanasi, Delhi, Jaipur and Udaipur.
You will stay in the finest hotels, whilst experiencing the country through an authentic lens – visiting landmarks, embarking on boat rides, and receiving guided tours of some of the historic cities of India, such as Old Delhi and Udaipur’s old city.
The goal of this carefully planned trip would be to experience the best of India, and gain a grasp of its rich historical and cultural background, all while learning skills like cooking and water painting.
Prices start at 12,233$
Call 646-664-1935
Or Visit Jacada Travel to learn more
Ultimate Relaxation at an Indonesian Private Island
What’s a list of the best luxury experiences without a private island in it? If you are craving a more relaxing vacation, then how about a stay at a luxurious private island in Indonesia?
This Eco-friendly resort offers its guests private villas made of bamboo, whilst still offering modern amenities such as a bar, wifi, a plunge pool and on-call staff. Guests have a wide range of activities to choose from, including snorkeling, bouldering, sailing, diving, tennis and more.
That being said, if you just came to kick back you can hang out at the spa and rest assured that the villas are quiet and very private.
To add the cherry on top, the Cempedak resort does not allow children under the age of 16 on the island, making this a perfect destination for retirees looking to relax or newlyweds on a honeymoon. The idyllic island is just 56 miles (91km) away from Singapore, ensuring straightforward connectivity.
Prices start at ~350$ per night. Weekend prices are higher
Book your stay
High Adrenaline Dune Buggy Tour in Dubai
This dune buggy driving experience is not so much a standalone experience as it is a thrilling compliment to an itinerary in Dubai, the city of Gold. The experience involves 1-2 hours of electrifying drives through the sand dunes of the UAE in specialized high-performance offroad vehicles. The top of the line Polaris Pro-R comes with 225hp and suspension so absorbent that you can send it off any dune you take issue with.
The unique experience also comes complimentary with a sandboarding experience down the dunes, a tour guide to ensure you don’t get lost, as well as snacks and a hotel pickup service within Dubai. For those with a penchant for speed and jumping dunes, give this a shot next time you visit Dubai.
Prices start at 1800 AED (~490$)
Book a time here
Global
For the Ultimate Adrenaline Junkie – Heli-Skiing in Antarctica
Yes, you read correctly. If you love to ski but the likes of Courchevel, St Moritz or Chamonix are just too… conventional, then a 10-day trip to one of the world’s most challenging and exclusive skiing destinations is for you. Braving the Antarctic desert takes skill and bravery, and is the kind of bucket-list activity that your friends won’t be bold enough to compete with.
Accompanied by two helicopters, the long Antarctic summer days will consist of skipping from mountaintop to mountaintop in places where few have ever set foot in, let alone skied in. The support helicopters also allow you to see some of Antarctica’s wildlife, such as penguins, petrels and seals.
In an environment as harsh as Antarctica, safety is naturally a huge focus. Pelorus thus takes careful measures to ensure that only the most experiences planners, guides and pilots accompany you on your expedition of a lifetime. In planning your trip you work closely with their advisors and receive essential training on surviving the potentially hazardous conditions.
If you desire to ski where few ever have, this might just be the luxury experience you have been seeking.
Prices are customized based on the client’s wishes, but expect to pay at least high 5 figures.
Call +44 203 848 5424
Or click here to Enquire/Book a trip.
Charter the Legendary Maltese Falcon for Luxury on the Water
If your idea of the best luxury experience is cruising stylishly on the water, nothing beats a superyacht. And within this subcategory of ocean-going vessels, few are as regal as the Maltese Falcon. Even its name is absolute perfection.
When it was built, the 88-metre long vessel was the largest sailing boat in the world. Since then larger yachts have been built, yet the Falcon retains its status as one of the most beautiful yachts ever built, having been refitted in 2023.
Guests who choose to charter this vessel will enjoy a host of luxurious services on board, including an outdoor cinema, a gym, and a spa. They also have the option to bring 11 of their friends, as the boat comes with accommodation for 12 guests.
It also contains a host of aquatic toys for you to have your fun with. These include water-skis, wake boards, jetsurfs (motorized surfboards) as well as two speedboats to get the most out of your vacation, and visit stunning destinations like Portofino, Saint-tropez and Cannes.
Basking in the warm waters and sunshine also offers the guests the rare pleasure of admiring the vessel, a ultra-modern yet somehow timeless silhouette, in large part thanks to its iconic sails.
Clients who book a trip on the Maltese Falcon have a choice of roaming the Mediterranean in the Summer, or the Caribbean in the winter.
Prices start at 518,000$ per week including expenses (approx. 43,000$ per guest)
Visit Yacht Charter Fleet to book a trip
Hop Aboard a Private Jet for a Globetrotting Adventure Around the World
The ultimate in luxury experiences. An extremely exclusive experience for the few that can afford it. This once-in-a-lifetime adventure has you visiting 5 different continents in 24 with an average of 2-3 days per location.
An intense itinerary at first glance, but the best amenities combined with the efficiency of private jet travel will have you relaxing the whole way through your adventure.
Patrons will experience the rich culture and wildlife in South America, Africa, Asia and Oceania, all while staying in 5 star hotels and resorts like the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti and the The Oberoi in New Delhi.
Some of the best luxury experiences on the globe offer plenty of comfort and high levels of service, but few can boast this level of convenience. No long layovers, no busy terminals, no security lines, no check-in, no boarding groups, no baggage fees, no stress. Everything is handled for you by the 18 staff on board including a chef, physician, 7 flight attendants and travel experts. All you have to do is pack your bags and show up!
These around the world jet experiences are in high-demand, so you should look to book the adventure well in advance, as many of the peak season journeys are currently waitlisted. Journeys start from either Miami or Orlando.
Prices start at 138,545$ for solo travelers, and 125,950 otherwise. All-inclusive price.
Learn more on the TCS World Travel’s website.
A Concierge to Personally Curate the Best Luxury Experiences on the Planet
If you’ve read this list (or browsed it) and feel as though nothing has resonated with you, consider contacting a luxury concierge or travel planner to create a ultra-exclusive experience, just for you. Most of the time concierge services handle everyday tasks like making reservations, buying concert tickets or booking flights.
That being said, luxury concierges have the connections and capacity to curate and create some extremely unique events, such as vow renewals with the Pope, walking the red carpet at the Met Gala or getting artist passes for Coachella. Truly some of the best luxury experiences that money cannot buy. That is, unless you know the right people.
This is to say that if you have a vision of life that the entries on this list do not reciprocate, whether it be something off-market or otherwise difficult to get, a concierge or lifestyle planner like Myria , John Paul, Knightsbridge Circle or Quintessentially may be your only way to open that door.
For the one that has it all, the only thing left in life is to experience it all. And since you can, why not experience the best?