It seems that everything is more expensive these days. Airlines have found a way to charge you for everything, hotels are putting the squeeze on you with extras (I’m eyeing you resort fees), and let’s not get started with eating out. Making the most of my hard earned dollars is certainly at the top of my list when I travel. So how do you have a luxury vacation on a shoestring budget?
If you have been dreaming of a lavish getaway but are worried about your budget, I’ve got you. I’m spilling all the tea on how to indulge in a luxury vacation without breaking the bank! This way you can have at least one lavish getaway a year.
Luxury doesn’t always mean expensive. If you play your cards right, you can find some of the most luxurious escapes at a fraction of what others are paying. It’s about getting more for less and still feeling the satisfaction of being a bit spoiled. But let’s start with the basics.
How to Find Affordable Luxury Vacations
There are some places and brands that exude luxury. While others fly under the radar but deliver unexpected amenities without the heavy price tag. First start with dwindling down your choices. In some countries, service is king. Staff to traveler ratios are high and attention to detail is paramount. Partner that with a strong US Dollar conversion rate and you are on the winning side of budget luxury. The key to achieving luxury on a budget is smart planning and strategic choices.
Choose Off Peak Travel Times
Shoulder season is your best opportunity to rack up the savings. Airlines and hotels drop their prices in hopes of getting more people using the services. Big brands are where you’ll find the deepest cuts. Think a lux stay at a Four Seasons or Ritz Carlton.
I’ve scored a few deals over the years and was lucky with weather too. Shoulder seasons can be tricky so just be flexible and come prepared.
Traveling during off-peak seasons can lead to significant savings on flights and accommodations. Be honest with yourself about your expectations during the trip as to not be disappointed. It may not be the best time to plan a whale watching get-away in the northern hemisphere when all the whales have migrated to warmer weather to breed.
A quick google search will give information about shoulder seasons for nearly every destination. Make sure you do your research.
Look for All Inclusive Packages
This not only works for resorts around the world but can opt for all inclusive cruises too. There are a few tricks to making sure you will get the value from all inclusive deals.
An extra $150 per day for drinks might not be a worthwhile investment if you only drink tea and water with an occasional glass of wine on a regular basis. It also doesn’t work if you plan on exploring outside of the resort for large parts of the day.
Instead of blindly choosing all-inclusive, opt for package deals when your plan is to simply explore the resort and luxuriate in the all that it has to offer. Otherwise, choose breakfast inclusive packages or one that offers a resort credit to be used on any of the amenities like bars or the spa.
Stay in Boutique Hotels or HomeStay Rentals
Less people can mean more attentive service. You don’t have to sacrifice luxury by choosing lesser know brands. In fact, sites light Mr & Mrs Smith or SLH curate luxury hotels in one place to make it easier for you to find.
If a homestay is more your speed, check out sites like Villas of Distinction or OneFineStay. They specialize in luxury home/villa rentals around the world. You can spend a day living the life of a multi-millionaire for less than the cost of a big brand hotel.
HomeStays work best when you have large groups and can share the costs of things like a private chef and home cleaning services. Many of them come with a concierge type service so you are never truly left alone to figure it out.
Look for Last Minute Deals
This one might be controversial. Especially if you don’t have the flexibility to book at the last minute. But if you do, sign up for fare alerts on sites like skyscanner or googleflights. These sites will provide an insider look at the best times to book flights to a particular destination and they show you prices over multiple airlines.
Cruises are notorious for offering last minute deals. The truth is cruise lines prefer to sail with a full ship and closer to the sail dates, you can find steep discounts. This includes discounts on some of the lavish suites.
For hotels, it doesn’t hurt to ask for upgrades at check in. You might find yourself in an ocean front suite for a fraction of the cost.
Reasonable Destinations
While some destination require you to visit during off peak season to get the savings, there are few destinations that are reasonable all year long.
Mexico (specifically Tulum or Oaxaca)
Tulum offers luxurious beachfront resorts and wellness retreats that are often more affordable than similar locations in the Caribbean. Oaxaca provides an upscale cultural experience with its rich history and gourmet cuisine without the steep price.
On the positive side, the hotels are cheap and you can eat at a relatively reasonable cost. It’s close to the US so getting there is simple and generally you can find cheap airfare throughout the year.
That said, I found the transportation cost to be exorbitant. If you’re not into walking, you will spend what you’ve saved in hotels cost on getting between activities like dinner off site. And forget renting a car, as the parking is virtually non existent.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali combines luxury with affordability, offering beautiful resorts, wellness retreats, and unique cultural experiences at lower prices than many other tropical destinations. One day you can do a morning hike to catch the sunrise on Mt. Batur and the next day relax in a hot springs near Bayuwedung.
The cost of food is nominal and you can get some really great eats for pennies, literally. Taxi’s are incredibly cheap especially if you take the local option on the back of a motorbike. Choose areas like Seminyak or Canggu for luxury dining and Ubud for a more serene retreat.
The distance between resorts and excursions might require longer transport times which may eat into your overall experience. Read more on how what to expect in this destination in First Time Travelers Guide to Bali.
St Lucia
This country is known for its natural beauty and luxury resorts like Jade Mountain or The BodyHoliday. There are always new entries in the country so keep an eye out for new luxury resorts coming on the scene. St. Lucia often has deals that make creating a luxury vacation with high-end experiences more affordable.
Depending on which airport you arrive and the location of the hotel, you can opt for the helicopter transport. It can be quicker way to get across the island and bonus you get an aerial view/tour while in route.
Check out my blog on Solo Traveler Secrets St Lucia for more insight on this destination.
Morocco
Staying in a traditional Riad in Marrakesh can be one of the most luxurious ways to spend a get-away in Morocco. Of course, there is also the Four Seasons but you will like drop a few more dollars on a stay there with all of the lux amenities you can use.
What you don’t save on your accommodations, you can save on experiences. Spa treatments, dining and transportation is fairly reasonable in Morocco. Leaving you with a bit of room in your budget to splurge on a fancier hotel.
You should know that staying in a Traditional Riad comes with a unique set of challenges. It is unlikely to have the range of amenities that you’ll find in a more western resort. That said, the service is top notch and you may walk away with a few bespoke gifts from the staff to commemorate your stay. I was gifted a cool pair of traditional slippers called babouches.
Use Points and Miles
A great hotel deal means nothing if you are unable to get to the destination without breaking the bank. If you haven’t already done it, sign up for travel reward cards. You can use the points for free hotel nights, free flights and even upgrades.
Do your research to get the rewards program that best fits your style. Many offer bonus points/miles just for signing up and others offer bonus rewards during certain events or for some purchases. Be strategic about how you earn points. Fly with airlines that are a part of the same partnership program and choose hotels that provide bonus rewards.
If you’ve chosen well, you may even get access to airport lounges and discounts on rental cars or car services. Pro tip: Make sure you are paying the balances in full each month to get the full benefit of having a reward card. Interest charges eat right into any savings that you would have accumulate and some for some cards, you forfeit the points if you are late with your payment.
Curate Unique Experiences
This might be the most important thing you can do to have a luxury vacation. Maybe you don’t stay in the resort the best spa but you treat yourself to a spa experience at the best hotel in the destination or you choose a five star dining experience to satisfy your unique foodie tastebuds.
Luxury travel isn’t just about where you stay or how you get there—it’s about those special touches that make your trip unforgettable. Imagine skipping the long lines at popular landmarks, enjoying a private dining experiences prepared by a renowned chef, or indulging in spa treatments in remote, serene settings. That’s luxury!
Splurge on experiences that speak to you and save in others. Be sure to do your research ahead of arriving at your destination to ensure the activities you’ve chosen are available during the time you’ve planned. You may be surprised to find that some destinations offer minimal services during off peak times.
Luxury travel is all about the little extras that make a big impact. By tapping into these unique and exclusive perks, you’ll find yourself enjoying the best the world has to offer—without needing a millionaire’s budget. Remember, luxury isn’t always about cost; it’s about value, experience, and unforgettable memories.
My Perspective
While you don’t need luck to find affordable international travel deals, you do need a strategy. Redefine luxury vacation on your own terms. Things that make a high end experience for your might be totally different that the people you see in your instagram feed.
Choose reasonable destinations, travel during off peak times and curate your own unique experiences. Think differently about your hotel and flight options to find the best deals. And remember you are going for luxury, so recognize a great deal and splurge where it counts.
Share this blog with your travel squad that likes to ball out on a budget. And don’t forget to subscribe for more insider travel tips and guides!
FAQs About Luxury Vacations Without the High Price Tag
What are some tips for finding affordable luxury destinations?
Finding affordable luxury destinations involves researching lesser-known locations, traveling during off-peak seasons, and looking for package deals that include accommodations and activities.
Can I enjoy luxury experiences without spending a lot?
Yes, you can enjoy luxury experiences on a budget by focusing on unique local offerings, using travel points for upgrades, and selecting boutique hotels or all-inclusive resorts that provide value for money.
What is considered a luxury vacation?
A luxury vacation is defined by personalized, high-end experiences that prioritize comfort, exclusivity, and exceptional service. The focus is on creating a tailored, stress-free experience with attention to detail and elevated standards.
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