Can You Afford These 8 Swanky Destinations? Here’s the Price Tag!
Traveling can be a dream, but some destinations have a hefty price tag. These luxury spots are favored by the ultra-wealthy who have no problem splurging on experiences beyond the ordinary. Here’s a look at a few destinations you might need a small fortune to enjoy.
Antarctica ($15,000–$100,000 per person)
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A two-week expedition to Antarctica typically costs between $10,000 and $25,000 per person for standard cruises departing from Ushuaia, Argentina. However, luxury cruises or specialty expeditions, such as those involving kayaking, mountaineering, or visits to the South Pole, can cost between $40,000 and $100,000 or more.
Underwater Hotels ($1,700–$50,000 per night)
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Underwater stays are ultra-luxurious. The Manta Resort in Tanzania offers its underwater room for around $1,700 per night. It provides a once-in-a-lifetime chance to live among natural marine life in the comfort of a hotel.
The Maldives ($1,500–$95,000 per night)
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The Maldives are all about overwater bungalows and private beaches. Costs can range from $1,500 to a staggering $95,000 per night, especially during the high season. With private jets and celebrity sightings, it’s a true escape for those with at least $5 million to their name.
Bora Bora ($1,000–$5,000 per night)
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Bora Bora is a dream getaway for those seeking both romance and grandeur. Overwater bungalows at top resorts like the Four Seasons or St. Regis cost between $800 and $1,500 per night. In some places, weekly stays can go from $1,000 to $5,000.
Private Island Rentals ($100,000–$1 million per week)
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Island rental prices vary by size, location, amenities, and length of stay. Banwa Private Island in the Philippines, for example, costs $100,000 per night, as per ABC News. Ultra-luxury options, such as a private atoll near Tahiti, can reach an astonishing $1 million per week for exclusive stays.
Space Tourism ($250,000–$50 million per seat)
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Space tourism has emerged as one of the most expensive experiences in the world. Virgin Galactic provides suborbital trips at the lower end for just a few minutes in space. For full orbital experiences, SpaceX leads the high-end market, charging tens of millions for multi-day missions around Earth.
Tented Safaris ($1,500–$10,000 per night)
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Luxury tented safaris in South Africa like the Singita Lebombo Lodge in Kruger National Park start at approximately $1,500 to $2,500 per person per night. There’s also Cottar’s 1920s Camp Private Bush Villa in Kenya priced at over $10,000 nightly for up to 12 guests.
Private Yacht Charters ($3,000–$500,000 per week)
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In the Mediterranean, particularly in Croatia, Greece, or Turkey, you can find budget-friendly sailing yachts or catamarans starting at about $3,000 to $5,000 per week. Meanwhile, superyachts ranging from 200 to 230 feet can command rates around $500,000 per week, with top-tier luxury experiences, as per Northrop & Johnson.
Iceland’s Luxury Resorts ($2,000–$15,000 per night)
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Iceland’s luxury scene is defined by its raw beauty and high-end eco-lodges. Resorts like The Retreat at Blue Lagoon gives access to geothermal spas and private tours. Helicopter rides over glaciers or volcanoes are common here. Rates range from $2,000 to $15,000 for complete privacy and customized adventure.
French Riviera ($10,000+ per week)
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USA Today claims that spending over $10,000 per week on a French Riviera vacation is common for travelers seeking luxury hotels, fine dining, private beaches, and yachting. But while Cannes and Monaco are exceptionally pricey, budget-conscious visitors can still find affordable options, including reasonably priced dining and groceries with careful planning.
Switzerland’s Alpine Resorts ($50,000+ per week)
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Alpine destinations like St. Moritz and Gstaad offer skiing with five-star service. Private chalets come with chefs, saunas, and slopeside access. High-end shopping and fine dining complete the experience. For a fully customized winter escape, expect to spend over $50,000 per week, especially during peak season.
Seychelles ($8,500–$20,000 per night)
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High-end resorts in the Seychelles, like North Island, start around $8,000 per night, with exclusive villas such as the Presidential Villa costing over $20,000 nightly. Other high-end stays, like Fregate Island Private, begin at approximately €4,000 ($4,300). These elite private island experiences cater to ultra-luxury travelers seeking complete seclusion.
The Hamptons ($5,000–$225,000 per week)
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Oceanfront mansions with pools, tennis courts, and chef kitchens are typical for weekly rentals at The Hamptons, with summer prices peaking depending on size and location. For instance, a Bridgehampton oceanfront estate was listed at $1.8 million for the July-August-Labor Day period, translating to approximately $225,000 per week.
Kyoto, Japan ($2,000–$25,000 per night)
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Kyoto offers luxury stays in restored ryokans and five-star hotels with private gardens, tea ceremonies, and personal chefs. The ultra-exclusive Tawaraya Ryokan or the Aman Kyoto can cost up to $2,000 per night, especially during cherry blossom season.