Top 5 Exclusive Vacations Most of Us Can Only Dream About

This blog post was updated on May 31, 2022.

If you’re like most travelers, budget is definitely an important consideration when planning your trip. However, from time to time, it’s fun to allow yourself to indulge in the fantasy of traveling to exclusive locales, unencumbered by questions like “Wait, how much does that cost?” In this spirit, we invite you to take a quick vacation from your routine today and travel with us to these five spectacular spots (champagne optional).

Ariara Island, Philippines

Fancy a private island getaway? Then take cheap flights to the Philipines and head to Ariara, a paradise-on-earth type of spot located about 160 miles southwest of Manila. Ariara offers the best of the best to discerning travelers from sandy beaches with perfect turquoise waters to cottages and villas designed by Filipino architect Jorge Yulo. On Ariara, guests call the shots. A romantic dinner for two on the beach? No problem. A private yoga session followed by a deep tissue massage? You got it. If you get bored (ha!), you can always check out the surrounding islands aboard the resort’s yacht, the Maya Maya. With room for around 20 guests at a time, Ariara definitely falls under the category of exclusive vacations.

Parrot Cay and COMO Shambhala Retreat, Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos is already an exclusive vacation spot. But on the island lies Parrot Cay and COMO Shambhala Retreat, accessible only to the über-wealthy. Guests can go for a swim in the stunning infinity pool, receive top-notch spa treatments at Shambhala, and dine in state-of-the-art restaurants before retreating to their waterfront Balinese-style villas. With over three miles of perfect beaches, Parrot Cay and COMO Shambhala Retreat is a little slice of heaven on earth. Get your bathing suits on and head to Turks and Caicos for your heaven-on-earth experience.

You may also like: How to Find the Best All-Inclusive Resorts for You and Your Budget

Chateau le Camarguais, Rhône Valley, France

If you need a break from the island scene, why not live in a château in the heart of France’s Rhône Valley for a week? That’s right, even the nouveau riche can live like French royalty in this elite lodging. The château boasts a business center, sports complex, an outdoor swimming pool, and private staff. Speaking of private, this centuries-old property is surrounded by parkland, making it the perfect place to hang out with you and 31 of your closest friends. How much does it cost to rent a castle for a week, you ask? Only a cool $45,000-$60,000, depending on the season.

Badrutt’s Palace, St. Moritz, Switzerland

Ski buffs will love the exclusive Badrutt’s Palace, located in the delightful (and very expensive) Swiss town of St. Moritz (site of the 1928 Olympics). Outdoor adventurists can enjoy torch-light skiing, half-pipe snowboarding, tobogganing, and vertical ice wall climbing. Looking for a more relaxing stay? Indulge in state-of-the-art spa treatments and gourmet meals at the French-inspired Le Restaurant.

Frégate Island Resort, Seychelles

Frégate Island is part of one of the most stunning island chains in the world. And, of course, it’s a natural wonderland accessible to just a fortunate few. These lucky guests can enjoy ocean-view villas with teak woodwork and marble floors, as well as private Jacuzzis and infinity pools. In the middle of the island is a stunning jungle-covered granite peak that’s home to majestic banyan trees and giant tortoises. Luxury is the name of the game at this exclusive island retreat, from relaxing spa treatments to gourmet meal options galore.

Aaaand we’re back at our desks, checking our bank accounts and dreaming about these extravagant getaways. Sigh. Check out more dream-worthy all-inclusive resorts if you’re not ready to go back to reality just yet.

Are there any other places you’ve always wanted to go, but can only dream about right now? Tell us in the comments below!