Luxury destinations? Tourism is slowly returning to its pre-pandemic levels. Yet many who are beginning to travel once again desire more from their trips. Did you know the luxury travel market is set for unprecedented growth?

When you are searching for high-end destinations, it can be hard to pick somewhere unique. Below, we give our five essential luxury destinations. 

1. The British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands have a reputation as a tropical getaway for the wealthiest of UK residents. It consists of four main islands: Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, and Anegada. However, for true remote splendor you will want to head to one of the other 50 smaller islands, often accessible only by boat. 

Once you arrive at your choice of luxury vacation homes, you will have little to do but relax. Talk walks on the bright white sandy beaches, or let the waves lap at your feet as you sip cocktails. 

When you want a few luxury trips the best way to do it is by hiring a private yacht. Several boat charters will do everything from showing the sights to taking you on deep-sea fishing trips. 

On your trip, the beautiful bays and coasts are in abundance. Smugglers Cove, Norman Island Caves and Devil’s Bay are all well worthy of your time. A trip to the capital Road Town can show you some traditional life in the islands and a visit to Callwood Distillery will let you experience one of the oldest rum distilleries in the Caribbean. 

2. Antarctica

In a world of extravagant destinations, Antarctica will take some beating. It may not have a huge choice of luxury vacation homes or a wealth of gourmet restaurants, but it does have remote beauty unlike anywhere else. 

Most accommodation takes the form of camps. However, some are much more luxurious than you would imagine. They have beds, heating, and all the amenities you would need for a comfortable stay. 

There are also several activities for the adventurous to take part in. Cross country skiing, skidooing, ice climbing, and mountaineering are all available. You can also trek to the South Pole or go to the thriving Penguin colony at Atka Bay. 

Of course, the real attraction is the Antarctic itself. Few people will have been here for a trip before and you can be one of the few to experience its otherworldly majesty. 

3. Seychelles

Seychelles lies off the eastern coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean. It is comprised of 115 islands, similar to the archipelago makeup of its neighbors the Maldives and Madagascar. For a tropical island getaway, it does not come more remote or exclusive. 

The capital Victoria is a small but quaint town, with its Hindu temples and colonial architecture. Visit the Botanical Gardens or walk the Copolia Trail to see the greenery of this stunning land. 

When you want to venture out, a private charter is the best way to go. You can find plenty of luxury vacation homes dotted around the islands (Anse) and you are sure to find one to suit your needs. If you decide to take a dip out at sea, beware of the strong currents and waves closer to the shore. 

The best time to visit is between April and May or October and November. These are calmer periods when winds subside. However, if you can put up with a light breeze, then you can visit any time of year. 

4. The Aeolian Islands

The Aeolian islands can be found off the northeastern coast of Sicily. They are made up of seven islands: Vulcano, Salina, Stromboli, Filicudi, Lipari, Panarea, and Alicudi. It is impossible to see everything they have to offer on a short trip, so make sure you go at a leisurely pace and take in everything they can offer. 

Lipari is the largest of the islands. It is a beautiful port town, with a rich geological heritage. A small fort looks over the sea and you can eat at some of the most delicious seafood restaurants in Europe. 

Be sure to visit Vulcano, with its dramatic martian landscape and sulfurous craters. Take an exfoliating mud bath then head out to sample freshly baked pizza in the bustling town. 

5. Costa Rica

Costa Rica lies in Central America, sandwiched between Nicaragua and Panama. It is a jungle paradise that collapses into beautiful blue oceans. If you want a trip where you can spot the most exciting wildlife in the Americas, this is the place to be. 

San Jose is the capital city, resplendent in Spanish architecture brought by the first settlers. Its indigenous past is also alive and well. The pre-Columbian gold museum is worth a visit for anyone who wants to see some true vintage jewelry. 

Once out of the city, Costa Rica has numerous national parks for you to explore. Playa Manuel Antonio, Curi Cancha Reserve, and Parque Nacional Braulio Carrillo have huge swathes of forest and marine land that are marked for protection. 

If none of that tempts you, then you can just book a vacation and enjoy the weather. On the Pacific Coast, December to April bring the best weather, with March to September working best on the Caribbean side. 

Finding Accommodation at Luxury Destinations

Now you have our pick of luxury destinations, book the flights and find some great accommodation. There are not just hotels, but a whole wealth of homes and unique places to stay. 

If you have a luxury home you rent out, have you considered a swap? At Third Home, we provide the key to a world of travel with our network of home exchangers. Click here to find out more about how our unique system works. 

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