The Ultimate Luxury Escapes: My Top 5 Destinations for Indulgent Travel

Angela Scott • November 26, 2024

Whether you're seeking a serene retreat or an exhilarating adventure, I've got you covered. Today, I'm thrilled to share my top five destinations for luxury travel. These places are not just about high-end accommodations and fine dining; they offer unique experiences that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. So, grab a glass of champagne, sit back, and let's dive into the world of indulgent travel experiences.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

A row of bungalows in the water with a mountain in the background

Ah, Bora Bora! Just the name conjures images of turquoise waters, lush greenery, and overwater bungalows. Often dubbed the "Pearl of the Pacific," this island paradise is a dream come true for luxury travelers. Imagine waking up in your private bungalow, surrounded by the gentle lapping of crystal-clear waters. The service here is impeccable, with staff attending to your every need, whether it's breakfast delivered by canoe or a sunset massage on your private deck.



One of my favorite experiences in Bora Bora is the lagoon tour. You can snorkel with vibrant marine life, feed stingrays, and even swim with sharks if you're feeling adventurous. After a day of exploring, indulge in a Polynesian spa treatment or savor a romantic dinner on the beach with the most stunning sunset as your backdrop. Trust me, Bora Bora is a slice of heaven that you'll never want to leave.

Santorini, Greece

An aerial view of a small town on a cliff overlooking the ocean.

Santorini is the epitome of romance and elegance. With its iconic white-washed buildings and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, it's no wonder this island is a favorite among luxury travelers. The sunsets here are legendary, painting the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple that are simply mesmerizing.

The island offers a plethora of luxurious accommodations, from cliffside villas with infinity pools to boutique hotels that offer personalized service. One of the highlights of my Santorini experience was a private yacht tour around the island. We visited the volcanic hot springs, swam in secluded coves, and enjoyed a gourmet meal on board as the sun dipped below the horizon.

Foodies will delight in Santorini's culinary scene, which blends traditional Greek flavors with modern twists. Don't miss the opportunity to sample fresh seafood, local wines, and, of course, the famous Santorini cherry tomatoes. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins or lounging by your private pool, Santorini is a destination that promises luxury and romance at every turn.

Kyoto, Japan

A pagoda sitting on top of a hill with mountains in the background.

For those seeking a blend of tradition and luxury, Kyoto is an enchanting destination that offers a unique cultural experience. Known for its stunning temples, serene gardens, and historic tea houses, Kyoto is a place where time seems to stand still. Yet, it also boasts some of the most luxurious accommodations and dining experiences in the world.

Staying at a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, is a must. These establishments offer an authentic experience with tatami-matted rooms, kaiseki dining (a multi-course Japanese dinner), and relaxing onsens (hot springs). The attention to detail and hospitality is unparalleled, making you feel like royalty.

Kyoto is also home to some of the finest Michelin-starred restaurants, where you can savor exquisite Japanese cuisine. From sushi to kaiseki, each dish is a work of art, crafted with precision and passion. Exploring the city's bamboo groves, attending a traditional tea ceremony, or witnessing a geisha performance are just a few of the unforgettable experiences that await you in Kyoto.

The Amalfi Coast, Italy

A small town on a cliff overlooking the ocean.

The Amalfi Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline that exudes luxury and charm. With its dramatic cliffs, azure waters, and picturesque villages, it's a destination that captivates the senses. Whether you're driving along the winding coastal roads or sailing on a private yacht, the views are simply breathtaking.

The region is home to some of Italy's most luxurious hotels and villas, offering unparalleled comfort and service. Imagine sipping limoncello on your terrace, overlooking the shimmering sea, or enjoying a private cooking class with a renowned Italian chef. The Amalfi Coast is a place where you can indulge in the finer things in life, from exquisite cuisine to world-class shopping.

One of my favorite memories from the Amalfi Coast is a day spent exploring the island of Capri. We visited the famous Blue Grotto, took a scenic chairlift to the top of Monte Solaro, and enjoyed a leisurely lunch at a cliffside restaurant. The Amalfi Coast is a destination that offers luxury, beauty, and adventure in equal measure.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

An aerial view of a city skyline at night with a river in the foreground.

When you think of modern luxury what do you think of? If it's Ferraris, high end luxury stores such as Gucci and Chanel, you're talking about Dubai!


Dubai is the epitome of modern luxury, with its futuristic skyline, opulent hotels, and extravagant shopping malls. It's a city that never ceases to amaze, offering a wealth of experiences that cater to the luxury traveler. From indoor skiing to desert safaris, Dubai is a place where you can indulge your every whim.

The accommodations in Dubai are nothing short of spectacular, with iconic hotels like the Burj Al Arab and Atlantis, The Palm offering world-class service and amenities. Imagine dining at a restaurant with an underwater view or enjoying a cocktail at the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa.

For those seeking adventure, a hot air balloon ride over the desert at sunrise is an experience you'll never forget. Alternatively, you can explore the vibrant souks, take a private yacht cruise along the coastline, or relax at one of Dubai's luxurious beach clubs. Dubai is a city that offers endless possibilities for indulgence and excitement.

I Can Book My Own Travel – Why Would I Use A Travel Agent?

By Angela Scott • January 2, 2025
If I had a nickel for everyone who said that there is no need to use a travel agent. They can book their own travel. It’s so easy on the internet. If I had a dollar for everyone who after saying that, had an issue with a flight delay, missed connection, issue with their hotel, had to be on the phone for hours with an airline…and then said they now see the value in a travel agent. The internet makes it so easy for people to book their own travel. The value of a travel agent is so much more than booking a trip for a client. We travel. Many times we have been to resorts or hotels, we have done site visits or stayed at the hotel. The first thing we do when we work with a client is to talk to them, find out their wants and needs. We may know that Hotel A is a party hotel and that is not what a client wants. Or that Hotel B is a spread out resort and our client with mobility issues may have issues at that hotel. If we haven’t been to hotels ourselves, many times we have fellow travel agents who have that we can bounce ideas off of them. We handle any issues. If there aren’t any issues, fantastic! But if there are any issues, do you want to spend your vacation trying to rectify them? Do you want to be on hold for hours with an airline? Or do you want to call/text/email your travel agent and let them handle the issues for you? We build a package for you. We can get you the rail tickets in Europe, the private transfers, the excursions. Due to our travels, in many locations we know private reputable tour guides. Sometimes your package will have some of your party flying from one airport and others from another but staying at the same hotel. We have no issues building that package for you.
A large swimming pool surrounded by palm trees and umbrellas

A Perfect Slice of Paradise, Without a Passport!

By Angela Scott • January 2, 2025
The ultimate vacation experience awaits in St. Thomas, the most cosmopolitan of the U.S. Virgin Islands. This 32-square-mile island still retains the distinctive atmosphere of a secluded Caribbean paradise, beckoning visitors with its turquoise waters, sun-kissed beaches, championship golf, spectacular nightlife and one of the world’s most beautiful harbors. The shopping capital of the Caribbean, the island is renowned for its duty-free shops. What makes St. Thomas even more attractive is that access to it all is passport-free for U.S. citizens. Rated among the world’s best beaches, Magens Bay Beach, with its soft white sand and calm, clear waters, is perfect for swimming and watersports. Head east to snorkel or dive into the underwater world at Coral World Ocean Park, where vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish await. Water Bay on the eastern side of the island offers more stunning beaches ideal for watersports like snorkeling, diving, fishing, sailing and windsurfing. Boat tours to nearby Virgin Gorda and the famous baths allow travelers to explore stunning rock formations and hidden coves. In Charlotte Amalie, the charming capital city, travelers can explore the bustling marketplaces and historic sites like Fort Christian and Blackbeard's Castle. For an incomparable view of the Caribbean, take the Skyride 700 feet above the city or climb the famous 99 Steps. Delectable dining options across the island await, from fresh seafood shacks to upscale restaurants where foodies can enjoy breathtaking ocean views while dining al fresco on local and international specialties.

I Stayed There: Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall

By Angela Scott • January 1, 2025
I recently had the opportunity to attend the Caribbean Travel Marketplace in Montego Bay, Jamaica. I’d not visited the island in several years, so I was excited to return to one of my favorite islands! The week did not disappoint. Hyatt Ziva even welcomed me before I left the airport when I stopped by the lounge and was greeted with my choice of a Red Stripe or rum punch. The Vibe Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall has a laid-back Caribbean vibe and is welcoming to guests of all ages. I felt right at home and was happy to be surrounded by the property’s tropical landscaping with gorgeous ocean views. How I Felt I really enjoyed being back in Jamaica and appreciated that the property incorporated some touches of local flavor with Jamaican photo op locations by the ocean and a jerk shack. It’s always nice to stay at a resort with some local appeal, rather than feel like you’re visiting a cookie cutter property that could be anywhere in the world.
A person is sitting at a desk with a laptop and a cell phone.

It’s Time for a Digital Detox

By Angela Scott • December 31, 2024
Technology is the foundation of day-to-day life, and as a result, many of us are connected to it for most of the time we’re awake — laptops and desktop monitors hold our attention during the workday, and cell phones, tablets and TVs pass the time after clocking out. No matter the purpose, the need to be accessible is an all-consuming habit, even if we don’t always realize it. Our reliance on technology wasn’t always this strong though, so let’s rewind it back a couple of years and explore one of the major causes. A Change to the Digital Landscape It’s no secret there have been growing concerns regarding the addictive nature of technology for quite some time now, but the COVID-19 pandemic played a significant role in this elevated attachment. As employees turned to a remote environment and began working out of their makeshift office spaces at home, technology filled in the missing gaps of human interaction. What started as workers taking face-to-face meetings, stopping to chat with their neighbors and having lunch with colleagues in the breakroom shifted to a more isolated experience — video calls were reduced to little squares on the computer; brain breaks were spent scrolling on social media, and meals were consumed in front of the TV or phone. Every aspect of daily life quickly became tied to various screens, and now, as employees either head back into the office or embrace the work-from-home era, a heavy reliance on technology lingers, but not without a cost. In fact, a 2023 study from the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center linked high volumes of screen time to symptoms such as dry eyes, poor sleep quality and mental health concerns. Feelings of anxiety, stress and depression are exacerbated, and cognitive functions like memory and mood regulation suffer as a result.
A crowd of people are walking down Times Square in New York City

15 Must-See New York City Neighborhoods and How To Visit

By Angela Scott • December 31, 2024
From Brooklyn to the Bronx , New York City offers dozens of unique neighborhoods that all have their own story to tell. From the artistic soul of Chelsea to the glittering skyline views in Dumbo to the cultural richness of Harlem to the creative spirit of Williamsburg , NYC’s distinct districts are as dynamic as the people who call them home—or who travel great lengths to experience them first-hand. And they’re more than just tourist attractions: They reveal the true essence of New York life, in which something new can be discovered around every corner. Curious about how to visit NYC’s best neighborhoods? Read on for the top things to see and do at each of our hand-selected hot spots.
A man and a woman are sitting in lawn chairs on a beach.

8 Warm-Weather Destinations Where You Can Escape the Winter Chill

By Angela Scott • December 22, 2024
If you’re dreading seasonal affective disorder and the post-holiday lull as January approaches, you’re not alone—but investing in a light-therapy lamp isn’t the only way to forestall the season’s worst effects. To truly escape the dark nights and deep-freeze, seek out the winter sun. From the volcanic topography of the Canary Islands to the unspoiled beaches of the Maldives, these warm and sunny locales provide a much-needed bit of July in the cold, dark depths of January.
The pixar place hotel is located in a large building

Pixar Fest

By Angela Scott • November 25, 2024
A Magical Disneyland Experience!
Two people are sitting on rocks in front of a waterfall.

How to Travel Sustainably Without Sacrificing Comfort

By Angela Scott • September 3, 2024
Sustainable travel no longer means roughing it or trading in your comfort for the planets wellbeing. With thoughtful choices, you can reduce your environmental footprint, while still enjoying a luxurious and stress free journey.
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