Winter is now almost upon us, and many travellers will have already begun to sketch out their holiday plans for the coming year. The world of luxury travel is increasingly offering extremely compelling package trips, which combine the ultimate in modern design with access to some of the world’s most beautiful and interesting environments.
But exactly which destinations might be worth looking at? Let’s take a look at some of the options.
Costa Rica — Nature Meets Refined Luxury
Costa Rica is a go-to destination for those seeking a tropical jungle experience. You’ll be able to stretch your legs in the world-famous cloud forests, before retiring to one of an increasingly luxurious selection of resorts. Costa Rica holidays offer a winning combination of nature and glamour – and they’re getting better and better.
For example, you might venture to the Peninsula Papagayo, where there’s a newly-opened Ritz Carlton Reserve by the name of ‘Nekajuio’ (a name which comes from the Chorotega word for ‘lush garden’). If you’re looking for sweeping ocean vistas, on the other hand, you might look at the Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique, which offers a number of private residences, among the rainforest-shrouded cliffs overlooking Playa Penca.
Red Sea, Saudi Arabia — The New Riviera of the Middle East
Over the last few years, Saudi Arabia has undergone a sweeping program of reforms and modernisations, in an attempt to present a new, cleaner image to the wider world. Among the many interesting developments is Red Sea Global, which is spread across twenty-two islands in the sea of the same name. When it’s finished, there will be around fifty hotels, which will collectively contain eight thousand rooms.
This is sure to be at the cutting edge of what’s possible, with a uniquely Saudi combination of futuristic architecture and natural desert splendour. Some resorts, from Six Senses and St. Regis are already open.
Sindalah Island, NEOM — The Visionary Escape
There’s another Saudi project that promises to appeal to luxury-conscious travellers. Part of the planned Neom city, Sindalah Island will soon be the best place to moor a mega-yacht, with a combination of boutique shops, hotels, and other marvels. A total in excess of $8 trillion will ultimately be spent on the Neom project, and you can expect results that measure up to the price tag.
Antarctica — The Ultimate Frontier of Luxury Exploration
There are few wildernesses more wild and inhospitable than Antarctica. If you’d like to get up close to this beautiful and exclusive natural wonder, then you no longer need to compromise on luxury. The Whichaway Camp by White Desert has recently been upgraded. You can expect glass-fronted suites, heated pods, gourmet meals, and a chance to go on safari and spot a penguin or two.
