* The Ultimate Splurge *
How about the Top 10 Luxury Destinations
for the World’s Richest Backpacker in 2024
If it ain’t 5 stars, it can’t be good.
Imagine being the world’s richest backpacker, with your travel adventures unbound by financial constraints. (Ok, you won’t be carrying your own backpack anymore, but hey – let me dream for you!)
Perhaps your parents founded social media platforms, mined the first virtual coins, farmed unicorns, bottled sunshine or invented the iPhone. Maybe your family has always been incredibly wealthy. And these air miles just keep on coming too! It’s possible you exist! It’s possible you exist!
You have the freedom to explore the most luxurious destinations, indulge in opulent experiences, and create unforgettable memories. Here’s a curated list of the top 10 places where you should splurge all your money in 2024. Including on how to get there with your private jet, of course!
(And for those who don't quite fit this description, enjoy this list as a window into a world of luxury – just as I do. If you happen to be rich: Hello and feel free to send me $10K as a token of appreciation for this post. I'm also available for hire as your personal assistant!)
1. The Maldives: A Private Island Retreat
Imagine lounging in a private overwater villa, with nothing but the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean surrounding you. The Maldives offers an unparalleled level of luxury, with private island resorts like Soneva Jani and Velaa Private Island. Enjoy personalized butler services, underwater dining experiences, and exclusive yacht excursions.
Morning: Begin your day with a sunrise yoga session on the deck of your overwater villa, followed by a gourmet breakfast served by your personal butler.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon snorkeling with manta rays and sea turtles in crystal-clear waters or enjoying a spa treatment in an underwater treatment room.
Evening: Dine at an exclusive underwater restaurant, where you can watch marine life glide by as you savor world-class cuisine.
Transport: Charter a private jet to Malé International Airport, followed by a seaplane transfer directly to your resort.
2. Paris, France: The Ultimate Culinary Journey
Paris, the city of love and lights, is also the pinnacle of gourmet dining and high fashion. Stay at the iconic Ritz Paris or Le Meurice, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants like Guy Savoy or Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée, and shop at haute couture boutiques along the Champs-Élysées.
Morning: Wake up in your opulent suite at the Ritz Paris and enjoy a leisurely breakfast on your private balcony overlooking the Place Vendôme.
Afternoon: Spend your afternoon on a private tour of the Louvre, followed by a shopping spree at haute couture boutiques along the Champs-Élysées.
Evening: Relish a multi-course dinner at Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant, and end the night with a private Seine River cruise under the stars.
Transport: Fly first-class or by private jet to Charles de Gaulle Airport, then take a luxury car service to your hotel.
3. Tokyo, Japan: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
Tokyo is a city that blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge technology. Book a suite at Aman Tokyo for breathtaking city views, dine at the three-Michelin-starred Sushi Saito, and indulge in a private shopping experience at Ginza’s luxury stores. Don’t miss the exclusive tea ceremonies and visits to historic temples.
Morning: Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast in your suite at Aman Tokyo, enjoying breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Afternoon: Explore Tokyo’s historic temples with a private guide, followed by a bespoke shopping experience in the luxury stores of Ginza.
Evening: Enjoy a kaiseki dinner at the three-Michelin-starred Sushi Saito, where your best friends also go, then immerse yourself in Tokyo’s nightlife with a VIP experience at an exclusive rooftop bar.
Transport: Travel by private jet to Tokyo Haneda Airport, and use a luxury chauffeured service to navigate the city.
4. Dubai, UAE: Extravagance Redefined
Dubai is synonymous with luxury. Stay at the Burj Al Arab, often described as the world’s only seven-star hotel, and enjoy its opulent amenities. Explore the desert with a private safari, dine at the world’s tallest restaurant, At.mosphere, in the Burj Khalifa, and shop for high-end brands at The Dubai Mall.
Morning: Begin with a lavish breakfast in your suite at the Burj Al Arab, the world’s only seven-star hotel.
Afternoon: Take a private helicopter tour over the city, then embark on a luxury desert safari with a gourmet picnic amid the dunes.
Evening: Dine at At.mosphere, the world’s highest restaurant in the Burj Khalifa, and finish the day with a private yacht cruise along the Dubai Marina.
Transport: Fly first-class or by private jet to Dubai International Airport, followed by a luxury limousine service to your hotel.
5. Tuscany, Italy: A Lavish Countryside Escape
Tuscany’s rolling hills and vineyards offer a serene and luxurious escape. Stay at Castiglion del Bosco, a Rosewood Resort, where you can enjoy private wine tastings, truffle hunting, and cooking classes with renowned chefs. Explore the art and architecture of Florence with a personal guide.
Morning: Wake up in a luxury villa at Castiglion del Bosco, a Rosewood Resort, and enjoy a farm-to-table breakfast.
Afternoon: Spend your day truffle hunting and wine tasting in the scenic Tuscan countryside, followed by a cooking class with a renowned local chef.
Evening: Savor a private dinner in a historic wine cellar, paired with the finest local wines.
Transport: Travel by private jet to Florence Airport, then take a helicopter transfer directly to the resort.
6. New York City, USA: The City That Never Sleeps
Experience the epitome of urban luxury in New York City. Book a suite at The Plaza or The St. Regis, enjoy a private helicopter tour over Manhattan, and dine at exclusive restaurants like Per Se and Eleven Madison Park. Broadway shows, private art gallery tours, and shopping on Fifth Avenue are a must.
Morning: Start with a gourmet breakfast in your suite at The Plaza, overlooking Central Park.
Afternoon: Take a private helicopter tour over Manhattan, followed by an exclusive shopping experience on Fifth Avenue.
Evening: Enjoy a world-class dinner at Eleven Madison Park, then catch a Broadway show with VIP seating and backstage access.
Transport: Fly first-class or by private jet to JFK or LaGuardia Airport, with a luxury car service for city transfers.
7. Santorini, Greece: A Dreamlike Island Experience
Santorini’s stunning sunsets and white-washed buildings provide a picture-perfect backdrop for luxury. Stay in a cliffside villa with a private infinity pool, such as those at Canaves Oia Suites. Savor gourmet Greek cuisine at Lycabettus Restaurant and explore the island with a private yacht tour.
Morning: Wake up in your cliffside villa at Canaves Oia Suites and enjoy a breakfast with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.
Afternoon: Explore the island on a private yacht, with stops for snorkeling and a secluded beach picnic.
Evening: Savor a gourmet dinner at Lycabettus Restaurant, set on a dramatic clifftop, and watch the sunset from your private terrace.
Transport: Travel by private jet to Santorini Airport, followed by a luxury car or helicopter transfer to your villa.
8. Cape Town, South Africa: Luxury Amidst Natural Beauty
Cape Town combines stunning landscapes with luxurious experiences. Stay at the One&Only Cape Town, with views of Table Mountain, and indulge in a private safari at a nearby game reserve. Explore the Cape Winelands with exclusive wine tastings and gourmet meals at top vineyards.
Morning: Begin your day with breakfast at One&Only Cape Town, with stunning views of Table Mountain.
Afternoon: Take a private tour of the Cape Winelands, enjoying exclusive wine tastings and gourmet lunches at top vineyards.
Evening: Experience a private safari at a nearby game reserve, followed by a luxurious dinner under the African stars.
Transport: Fly by private jet to Cape Town International Airport, with a luxury car service to your hotel and helicopter transfers for excursions.
9. Bora Bora, French Polynesia: Tropical Paradise
Bora Bora is the ultimate tropical luxury destination. Book a stay at The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, where you can enjoy private overwater bungalows, personal butler service, and secluded beach picnics. Dive into the crystal-clear waters with private snorkeling and diving excursions.
Morning: Wake up in your overwater bungalow at The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort and enjoy a floating breakfast in your private pool.
Afternoon: Dive into the clear waters for a private snorkeling or diving excursion, exploring vibrant coral reefs.
Evening: Dine on the beach with a private chef, enjoying a Polynesian cultural show as the sun sets over the lagoon.
Transport: Charter a private jet to Bora Bora Airport, followed by a luxury boat transfer to your resort.
10. Zurich, Switzerland: Alpine Luxury
Zurich offers a blend of urban sophistication and alpine charm. Stay at The Dolder Grand, a luxurious hotel with stunning views of the Alps. Enjoy private skiing lessons in the Swiss Alps, exclusive shopping experiences at Bahnhofstrasse, and dine at the two-Michelin-starred Restaurant Pavillon.
Morning: Start your day with a decadent breakfast at The Dolder Grand, with panoramic views of the Alps.
Afternoon: Enjoy private skiing lessons in the Swiss Alps, followed by a relaxing session at the hotel’s world-class spa.
Evening: Dine at the two-Michelin-starred Restaurant Pavillon, then explore Zurich’s vibrant nightlife or relax with a nightcap in your luxurious suite.
Transport: Fly by private jet to Zurich Airport, with a luxury car service for city transfers and helicopter options for alpine adventures.
As the richest backpacker in the world, your travel itinerary should be nothing short of extraordinary. From private island getaways to luxurious city escapes, these destinations promise unparalleled experiences that will allow you to splurge your money in the most lavish ways possible.
Embrace the opulence, indulge in the finest comforts, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Do share them with us.
(And for those who aren't super rich, enjoy this list as a window into a world of luxury – just as I do. If you happen to be rich: Hello and feel free to send me $10K as a token of appreciation for this post. I'm also available for hire as your personal assistant!)