Feature
Global Getaways: A Luxury Traveler’s Dream Come True
By Christy Pessemier | June 2024
The worldwide travel industry is booming. Now that we’re a few years out of the pandemic, It seems everyone wants to travel, no matter the season. With increasing awareness of exotic destinations through social media, improved access to travel worldwide, and a drive to discover new places—people of all ages are booking destination experiences at a rapid rate.
Though mainstream travel is enjoying plenty of growth, there’s one segment of the travel industry that’s skyrocketing in popularity worldwide—luxury travel. In fact, a Straits Research market overview reports that the luxury travel industry is growing at an unprecedented rate and Allied Market Research projects that luxury travel will be the fastest growing niche in the industry worldwide, forecasting into 2031.
So what’s the draw towards a luxury travel experience and what exactly does it entail? Today’s well-heeled travelers want something beyond a posh and pampered getaway. They’re looking for a more well-rounded vacation that’s filled with both relaxation and adventure. Driven to get out in nature and inspired by sustainability and wellness, sophisticated voyagers also place a high value on exclusive excursions. They’re continually seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience they can bring back home with them because, as the late Anthony Bourdain once said, “travel changes you, and leaves marks on you.”
As we head into the busy summer travel season, there are many options for discerning travelers looking for unforgettable indulgence, enrichment, and adventure. We found a few that continuously hit top global lists for luxury destinations, along with hosting breathtaking views and surroundings. All are 5-star experiences.
Hotel Grand Tremezzo
on Lake Como, Northern Italy
Photos courtesy of Hotel Grand Tremezzo
Credited by Greta Garbo in the 1932 movie, Grand Hotel, as “that happy sunny place,” Grand Hotel Tremezzo is not only a luxury travel favorite, but it’s an historic landmark dating back to 1910. Serving as a military hospital in World War 1, the hotel managed to keep its doors open through the Great Depression and World War II. Today, GHT carries on the tradition of the original owners, as a luxurious hotel destination for distinguished European travelers.
Surrounded by stunning alps and pristine Lake Como, this massive art nouveau style resort exudes romance and timeless elegance. With 100 lake or garden view windows, 76 rooms and 14 suites (including rooftop suites with panoramic views), the interior is just as breathtaking and looks like something from a fairytale. Guests have plenty to do with three pools, (one of them floating on top of the lake), outdoor jacuzzis, the award-winning T-spa, a 5-acre park, tennis court, fitness center, and sauna.
Drooling over the jaw-dropping views? We hear they’re even more amazing in person. Picture yourself on the balcony of your own private suite, enjoying the peaceful serenity of lake and mountain views, as you stretch out on your lounge chair, dozing off after a speedboat excursion on the water.
Experiences to try: Guided or self-driven motorboat tour, a scenic hike to the medieval church of San Martino, or enjoy a culinary exploration with popular winemaking and cooking classes.
Taj Lake Palace
Over Lake Pichola, Udaipur, India
Photos courtesy of Taj Lake Palace
The former summer retreat of the royal dynasty of Mewar, this elegant white marble palace has hosted famous poets and writers throughout history. Queen Elizabeth II and First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy have also been guests, and the hotel was featured in the 1983 James Bond movie, Octopussy. The recipient of many awards, the Taj Lake Palace is known as one of the most romantic hotels in the world.
Accessible only by boat, Taj Lake Palace is more than a hotel, it’s a testimony to the extensive engineering and imagination of the man who conceived plans for this massive haven—Maharana Jagat Singh II—the 62nd custodian of the House of Mewar. Given the fact that those plans were completed in 1746, it’s no wonder so many guests are enchanted by this priceless treasure. Not only is it fascinating that this lavish work of art is still standing, but the Taj Lake Palace actually floats on the waters of Lake Pichola; a stunning architectural feat considering the size and age of the structure.
While you’re here, you’ll live like a true noble in painstakingly restored chambers furnished with silk and velvet, intricately designed rugs, and elegantly painted walls. The experience is about as authentically regal as it gets because many of the 65 rooms and 18 grand suites actually hosted royalty.
You’ll stay entertained and sufficiently pampered with authentic cuisine and private dining experiences created by master chefs, multiple restaurants including Jharokha, Neel Kamal (Blue Lotus), and the stunning rooftop Bhairo, surrounded by fire-lit torches and the starry night sky. There’s also a bar where you can unwind while enjoying a cocktail and tapas between meals. Don’t miss the luxurious J Wellness Circle spa—housed on a boat that includes a relaxation lounge, steam room, shower, and soaking pool.
Palace amenities also include an outdoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, a 24-hour fitness center, and 24-hour in-room dining options.
Experiences to try: Indulge in a romantic candlelit dinner cruise on the Gangaur, a 150-year-old royal barge, also featured in Octopussy or take a tour from a historian and learn about the centuries of rulers who once resided at the Taj Lake Palace.
Rosewood Hotel
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico’s Central Highlands
Photos courtesy of Rosewood Hotel
Tucked within the historic downtown, the elegant Rosewood hotel was designed to fit into San Miguel de Allende’s historic atmosphere. Nestled in the Bajio mountains, and 6,400 feet above sea level, this city is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adding to the cultural richness of the location. With its colorful mix of dwellings in every shade of fire—terracotta, clay, golden yellow, and white, San Miguel de Allende has been called the most charming small town in Mexico and “the world’s best small city.”
Word has been spreading about the appeal of San Miguel de Allende, so of course it made sense to build a 5-star luxury hotel with upscale amenities and authentic Spanish style architecture here. The Rosewood was built in 2011 by local artisans and since then it has been recognized as one of the most sought after hotels in Mexico, and the world. This captivating resort is even more interesting and enjoyable because it honors the history of the region, elevating the entire experience.
Each of the 67 rooms and suites include hand-carved artisan furniture, exposed wood beam ceilings, and decor featuring the same vibrant colors you’ll see all over the town. Choose from a balcony room with doors that open to look out into the surrounding city, or splurge on a rooftop colonial room with a furnished terrace and breathtaking views. You can even book a suite with dual fireplaces and a terrace view of the Parroquia, one of Mexico’s most photographed churches, also known as San Miguel’s iconic church.
Amenities include Sense, a Rosewood Spa that incorporates Mexican healing traditions, tennis courts, a fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment, three pools, a jacuzzi, and cabanas to indulge in San Miguel’s pleasant and relaxing year-round outdoor climate.
Experiences to try: Enjoy a culinary adventure with cooking classes and tequila tastings or watch the colorful colonial city from the sky with a sunrise or sunset hot air balloon ride. Other options: guided horseback riding through a canyon, and ATV tours through ruins and historic monuments.
Royal Malewane The Lodge
South Africa
Photos Courtesy of Royal Malewane
Imagine sitting in an open-air safari vehicle, just feet away from an African lion, or a massive elephant walking towards you, curiously swinging its trunk in the glowing sunset. Then, after a long and thrilling day exploring the bush, head back to the lodge for a 6-course meal, massage, and relaxing swim before enjoying a curated local whiskey under the stars, laughing, and retelling the adventures of the day alongside a crackling fire.
Surrounded by the enthralling beauty and located in Thornybush Private Nature Reserve within Greater Kruger National Park, Royal Malewane includes three luxury safari lodges with six grand and palatial estates. Though visitors have much to indulge in, everything about this 5-star destination touches on the life-changing experience of Royal Malewane’s award-winning safari adventures.
Royal Malewane is deeply entrenched in conservation and respect for the surrounding wildlife and ecosystem, and their activities and experiences honor that commitment. With highly regarded FGASA qualifications, guides and trackers are known as the “most qualified guiding team in Africa,” offering an insider’s view of the untamed wilderness.
As an all-inclusive resort, meals and game drives are included with stays. For an extra exclusive experience, choose from the Royal Suite, Africa House, or The Farmhouse private luxury safari villas and you’ll have a dedicated team for your party, including your own private guide or tracker.
Amenities include multiple spa experiences with extensive options, personalized menus with an executive chef, bush dinners under the stars, a swimming pool, and fitness center.
Experiences to try: Drive in the Wild in search of wildlife, Safari on Foot, and Photographic Safaris are all hosted by expert guides. You can also take part in endangered African wildlife conservation activities. You won’t regret a helicopter tour of Africa from the air, witnessing the majesty of the Greater Kruger savannah.
As you can imagine, global hot spots like these are filling up as the summer and fall seasons come closer. Book your stay and start packing your bags because you’re about to leave your home for an adventure like you’ve never had—and come back richer for it.
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