Vacay in the lap of luxury...

As the summer holidays are approaching, travellers are planning their holidays, and luxury travel is on top of most travellers’ minds. A recent trend that people are now seeking in luxury travel is personalised and experiential journeys. Additionally, luxury travellers now prefer to visit attractions that are less-crowded and off the beaten track, and experiences that are more exclusive.

Luxury travellers want to experience dream holidays, for which they look out for a list of itineraries that offer everything from trending destinations to exclusive VIP experiences, luxury hotels, and concierge service.

The top four luxury travel destinations that can surely impress passionate luxury travellers are listed here. One thing to keep in mind — plan early for such hot destinations to ensure you get the best pick of VIP experiences, hotels and restaurants.

Austria

Step into a world of greatness, as you uncover the beauty and grandeur. Enjoy a private sparkling wine cruise on the glittering River Danube. Luxury experiences that await include a private recital of Chopin’s classic works at an after-hours visit to the baroque Schönbrunn Palace, dinner at Vienna’s amazing Michelin-starred restaurants, and the decadent fine wines and stately hotels that deliver extraordinary service. We also have Austria to thank for Swarovski crystal and the invention of both — the snow globe and the accordion, the latter being an instrument widely used in traditional folk music. Landlocked by the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Liechtenstein, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland, beautiful Austria has much to offer to a curious traveller.

Peru

Discover the stories of the ancient ruins dating back to the Incas in the 13th century. Those who visit this sacred country will fondly recount the generous, kind-hearted nature of locals who enjoy exchanging stories and traditions. Spanish, Quechua and Aymara are the three main languages spoken. Peru’s Cerro Blanco is the largest sand dune on the planet, standing at an immense height of 1,176 metres. We have Peru to thank for the potato as it grows over 3,000 varieties, and other significant exports include gold, coffee, corn, cotton and the Arabica bean.

Costa Rica
From rugged rainforests to sweeping coastlines and pristine beaches, this ecologically-friendly destination embraces the celebrated pure way of life. Travellers come from far and wide to see Costa Rica’s 100-plus volcanoes. Don’t miss a visit to the majestic Arenal Volcano, which until recently spewed large amounts of lava from its crater on a regular basis. This cone-shaped giant volcano is situated in the heart of the Arenal Volcano National Park where visitors can enjoy treetop canopy trips, horseback riding, river-rafting expeditions, aerial excursions through the forest and mineral-rich soaks in natural hot springs.

Pyramid Cheops, Egypt

Egypt

The Great Pyramids of Giza and ancient temples, tombs and treasures that line the vast River Nile have been attracting visitors to Egypt for over 4,000 years. With a brand new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) set to open this year, it will surely make it a hot destination to watch out for. From a fascinating ancient history, to beautiful landscapes and a warm, North African climate, the perfect way to experience this country is with a cruise along the Nile.

(The author is MD,
Luxury Gold, Asia)