Let your senses and wanderlust run wild as we explore 30 exquisite places to stay around the world. From stunning beachfront villas to opulent safari lodges and glamping’s most desirable spots, these luxury accommodations promise unforgettable locations and unparalleled hospitality. All 5 star and above, you may well ask what is the highest star rated hotel in the world? That would be ‘7-Star’ for which the The Burj Al Arab in Dubai is arguably the most famous. Our list features exceptional properties and luxury stays that you can enjoy on our small group journeys and some hand-picked exquisite places to stay for pure inspiration and dreams..

Find out more about Magnificent Stays with Luxury Gold

1. Ashford Castle, Ireland

Step back in time and rest your head in 11th century grandeur in this meticulously restored castle. Now a sumptuous 5-star retreat, try your hand at falconry, ride on horseback through the extensive grounds and dine like royalty in the opulent King George V dining room. Once owned by the Guinness family, Ashford Castle has hosted many royals and celebrities. one of the most prominent being the Prince of Wales, who subsequently became George V of England. In honor of his visit in 1905, the Guinness family built a special dining room that still bears his name proudly to this day, and serves to most delectable food. A stay here is a highlight on our Ultimate Ireland small group journey.

You may also enjoy reading: From A Festive Cruise To Parading Puddings, This Is How Ashford Castle Celebrates Christmas

2. Hotel Plaza Athenee, Paris, France

Plaza Athénée, one of the most iconic 5-star hotels and sought-after places to stay in Paris invites you to bathe in a world of pure splendor. Located on prestigious avenue Montaigne, the hotel stands in the heart of the Golden Triangle, on the most sophisticated avenue of Haute Couture. With 154 guest rooms and the 54 suites, savor the very best of Paris. The signature Eiffel Suite offers 130sq meters, a walk in closet and a baby grand piano. The hotel is also a dining destination in itself, guests can enjoy an immersive journey back to the ancient heart of French gastronomy, in the Michelin-starred restaurant led by acclaimed Chef Jean Imbert.

 3. Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, Quebec, Canada 

Perched atop Cape Diamond, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is an icon of Quebec, offering breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and the fortified old city. Opened in 1893, the imposing hotels has 18 floors and is one of the first completed grand railway hotels. It was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1981. Renowned for its exceptional service, indoor pools and delicious seasonal menus, to stay at the Frontenac is to taste a piece of history. Travel with Luxury Gold on Indulgence in Eastern Canada and not only stay in this superb establishment, you’ll also enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour, to learn about the château’s storied past.

4. Time + Tide Miavana, Madagascar

Gracefully positioned along the southeast coast of Africa, Madagascar showcases the Indian Ocean’s vibrant coral reefs and maritime marvels. The luxurious Miavana resort is situated on the secluded Nosy Ankao island, part of a five-island archipelago in northeastern Madagascar. Boasting the best in luxury accommodation, this exclusive retreat is one of the finest places to stay for travelers seeking an exclusive experience, with just 14 opulent villas lining the island’s pristine white beaches. Wake up, stretch and step directly onto the powder-soft sand. The end the day watching breathtaking panoramic sunsets over the ocean.

5. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Peru

Favored by travelers en route to the historic citadel of Machu Picchu, the 5-star Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel resembles a charming Andean village, featuring terraced hills, cascading waterfalls and winding stone pathways. Set high in the cloud forest, it boasts 83 whitewashed adobe casitas spread across 12 acres of breathtaking natural beauty. This stunning property is also home to 214 bird species, as well as the world’s largest collection of native orchids, with 372 species. Enjoy a luxurious stay here on Treasures of the Incas.

6. Belmond Hotel Caruso, Amalfi Coast, Italy

Housed within a historic medieval palace, Belmond Hotel Caruso offers charming views of the cliffs and rocky terrain of Italy’s Amalfi Coast and the Mediterranean Sea. One of Italy’s most prestigious hotels, inside savor the history, with beautifully frescoed salons and arched stone ceilings. Each room is uniquely, and outside you can enjoy one of the world’s most breathtaking infinity pools.

7. Hotel D’Angleterre, Geneva, Switzerland

Luxurious accommodations paired with sensational views of Lake Geneva await at the Hotel D’Angleterre. This historic hotel combines genuine Swiss hospitality with British elegance, offering stunning views of the famous Jet d’Eau and Mont Blanc beyond, along with the finest hospitality in Switzerland. The hotel features a selection of lavish, uniquely designed rooms and suites, each adorned with exquisite artwork and elegant furnishings, complemented by luxurious marble-lined bathrooms. Stay here on Majestic Switzerland.

Read more about Alpine luxury accommodations: Embrace Winter in One of These Luxury Resorts in Switzerland

8. Gleneagles, Scotland

Considered golf’s spiritual home, this 5-star Scottish hotel boasts an 18-hole courses, and a storied history as the site of the Ryder Cup. But not only for the sporting oriented, Gleneagles has been described as “destination in and of itself for anyone who wants a luxurious getaway in the beautiful Scottish countryside,” and is among the top places to stay in the country. Excellent service and elegant rooms are accompanied by an effortlessly beautiful rolling landscape and some of Scotland’s oldest distillers are a short drive away.

9. Leela Palace, Udaipur, India

Set in the enchanting City of Lakes, The Leela Palace Udaipur is a breathtaking tribute to the grandeur of the Maharanas of Mewar. Your journey begins with a serene boat ride across Lake Pichola. Upon arrival, experience a royal welcome with showers of rose petals. Stroll through hallways lined with exquisite silver figurines, then savor breakfast with stunning lake views or enjoy a picnic in the orchard. Dive into the temperature-controlled pool, embraced by elegant peacock sculptures, before unwinding on expansive terraces as you enjoy authentic Rajasthani cuisine under twinkling fairy lights. Delight in this beautiful hotel on our Imperial Rajasthan tour.

10. The Oberoi Udaivilas Udaipur, India

Built in the 17th century, the beautiful Oberoi Udaivilas Udaipur is the ultimate tranquil haven, featuring a series of fountains and reflective pools within its grand estate. The landscaped gardens, courtyards and intricately carved marble create a delightful atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era. Elegantly designed guestrooms, many with private terraces and some with their own swimming pools, offer a lavish retreat along the shores of Lake Pichola, making it an ideal base for discovering the treasures of Rajasthan.

 11. The Ritz Carlton, New Orleans, USA

Situated on the edge of the vibrant French Quarter, as one of the best places to stay in the city, the historic Ritz Carlton hotel is the perfect place to experience the vitality of New Orleans. A city for the senses, from the enticing scent of gumbo to the energizing beat of jazz. The palatial building was originally an elegant Maison Blanche Department Store between 1906 and 1909, redeveloped in the late 19802. Today, the hotel provides a refined urban retreat, famed for its cocktails, traditional Southern ambiance and elegant interior. Experience history for yourself on Southern Grace.

Bookmark for later: These Are the 10 Best Luxury Hotels in the World

 12. The Ritz, Paris, France

The epitome of luxury in Paris, The Ritz first opened its doors 124 years ago. World famous for good reason, every design detail is immaculately executed, from gold swan faucets and peach-hued towels in the marble bathrooms to opulent canopy beds and striking chandeliers throughout its rooms and halls. For a romantic getaway, the Ritz is one of the most enchanting places to stay – it was here that Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel made her home – the ultimate endorsement.

13. Ellerman House, Cape Town, South Africa

Wile away the hours in a gracious Edwardian Mansion, built by shipping magnate Sir John Ellerman. Originally designed to provide a place from which to observe ships approaching the harbor, it is now a stunning 5-star luxury hotel. With just 11 rooms, access is very exclusive, as is the service. Ellerman House is home to South Africa’s largest private art collection – every wall, even in the bathrooms, features a covetable work. The hotel also houses one of the finest collections of South African wines, with daily tastings held for guests.

14. Palacio Duhau – Park Hyatt, Buenos Aires, Argentina

The essence of the Belle Époque era continues to thrive in parts of Buenos Aires, Argentina, particularly at the Palacio Duhau. Finished in 1934, the hotel features a magnificent neoclassical façade that opens into a majestic lobby adorned with marble columns and intricately carved wooden doors. Accommodations vary from spacious and practical to luxurious and opulent, while the Duhau restaurant captures the historic glamour of the property, offering an elegant dining experience. The perfect base from which to enjoy the city’s historic landmarks, the Palacio Duhau is both sumptuous and practical.

15. Ohla Eixample, Barcelona, Spain

An urban boutique hotel, with contemporary design, a fantastic gastronomic offer and views of the city with its stunning infinity pool, Ohla Eixample is one of the premier places to stay in the heart of the Barcelona. Just a stone’s throw from Barcelona’s La Pedrera, Casa Batlló and the Sagrada Família, its also the perfect base from which to explore. Enjoy Michelin-starred dining serving traditional recipes from the Ebro Region and spend time browsing the many luxury shops and boutiques that surround the hotel. Stay here on Spain & Portugal In Style.

16. Four Seasons Private Island, Maldives

Imagine the ultimate luxury of having your own private island—this is precisely what the Four Seasons Maldives at Voavah offers. Representing the height of exclusivity, the island features a stunning beach house with seven opulent suites, accommodating up to 22 guests. Every detail has been thoughtfully curated to ensure comfort and relaxation. With exclusive access to the Voavah Summer, a 62-foot luxury yacht, alongside a dedicated 24-hour security team and a staff of 28, every desire can be effortlessly fulfilled.

 17. Lion Sands Game Reserve, South Africa

Calling all romantics, adventurers and solitude seekers to discover the magic of a night out in Africa – in complete luxury. The oldest private nature reserve in South Africa, and the only private reserve to have access to the perennial Sabie River, which it shares with Kruger National Park, the Lion Sands Game Reserve is the ultimate base from which to track the big five.

This exceptional hotel is a highlight of our Spectacular South Africa small group journey, and features four luxurious lodges that harmoniously integrate with the surrounding environment A dedicated family of staff will cater to your every need. Experience the sights and sounds of the bush as you embark on open safari drives at sunrise and late afternoon, optimizing the best wildlife viewing opportunities. Enjoy dining in the bush, in a boma, or under the stars, with a focus on delicious cuisine made from fresh, sustainable, and ethically sourced ingredients.

You may also enjoy reading: Glamping in the Wild: Uncovering the Best Luxury Safari Stays

18.  Villa Stéphanie at Brenners Park, Baden-Baden, Germany

Baden-Baden in Germany is famous for its thermal springs, and there is no better place to experience their healing powers than at the Villa Stéphanie Spa, at the Hotel Brenners Park. If you are looking for a luxury spa resort then this has to be top of your list. Described as a ‘5-star superior City Resort with an intimate character, expect inspirationally designed rooms, Balconies overlooking parkland and one of the most advanced spas in Europe. its its perfect setting, Villa Stéphanie is one of the most tranquil places to stay, with wellness programs designed to rejuvenate both body and mind.

19. The Reef House, Cairns, Australia

The Reef House is a serene tropical retreat nestled among coconut palms and shimmering turquoise waters. Guests can savor exquisite dishes crafted from fresh local produce at the Reef House Restaurant, recognized as Cairns Restaurant of the Year in 2019 by the Australian Culinary Federation. This adults-only haven caters to guests aged 16 and over, offering inclusive packages and curated activities for relaxation and rejuvenation. From the moment you arrive, the Reef House ensures a boutique experience dedicated to your comfort and revitalization. Spend three nights here in our Inspiring Australia journey.

20. Glamping – Dunton River Camp, Dolores, Colorado

Glamping, a luxurious take on traditional camping, combines the thrill of nature with the comforts of modern living. With its luxurious setting and world-class service, Dunton River Camp is frequently listed among the top places to stay for a truly indulgent escape. Located in an alpine clearing in the stunning Colorado Rockies where the camp offers an idyllic glamping experience along the banks of the Dolores River. This exclusive destination features eight elegantly designed tents, each equipped with en-suite bathrooms and six-foot soaking tubs.  Powered entirely by renewable energy, the main lodge, set in a beautifully restored 19th-century farmhouse, serves as a cozy gathering place, complete with a dining room, guest salon and a scenic wraparound deck.

21. Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, Croatia

The Esplanade Hotel in Zagreb exudes historic charm, dating back to the 1920s and the glamorous era of the Orient Express. Its elegantly renovated Art Deco interiors blend seamlessly with modern luxuries, offering plush rooms and suites equipped with marble bathrooms, fluffy bathrobes, and complimentary super-fast Internet access. Guests can indulge in goose down pillows and spacious accommodations. The lobby and public areas showcase stunning Art Deco style, while the fine dining restaurant and grand ballroom epitomize the best of European luxury hotel experiences. With its rich history and elegant furnishings, the Esplanade Hotel is considered one of the most charming places to stay for those seeking a touch of nostalgia.

22. Wild Coast Tented Lodge, Sri Lanka

Comprising 28 luxurious tented accommodations, Wild Coast Tented Lodge in Ceylon, is located near Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park, an area renowned for its significant leopard population. Offering views of the Indian Ocean, the glamorous camp occupies a beautiful site where the jungle meets the unspoiled shoreline. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, the Wild Coast Tented Lodge is one of the best places to stay for outdoor enthusiasts, offering access to hiking trails and wildlife. The lodge works with natural materials, allowing it to blend harmoniously with its surroundings and the thoughtfully designed layout resembles a leopard’s paw print, paying homage to the region’s signature wild cat. Dine in an open-air pavilion, clad in bamboo which wraps around the lodge’s free-form swimming pool. Simply one of the most stunning places to stay.

23. The Pousada Castelo Estremoz, Portugal

Setc in the Alentejo region of Portugal within the walled city of Estremoz, Pousada Castelo Estremoz is a magnificent palace featuring elegant canopied beds, beautifully landscaped gardens, and an inviting outdoor pool. This historic castle, constructed in the 13th century, offers a selection of five different room and suite categories. Whether you admire the panoramic views of Estremoz Menagem, wander the picturesque grounds, or relax on the castle terrace, your experience will be truly remarkable.

Indulge in more fortress inspiration: How You Can Stay in Europe’s Finest Private Castles

24. Hotel Union, Geriangerfjord, Norway

Hotel Union Geiranger is a first-class, family-owned hotel offering breathtaking views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Geirangerfjord. Nestled in the picturesque village of Geiranger, the Hotel Union is one of the most serene places to stay, offering spectacular Fiordland views and numerous activities for relaxation. A Swiss chalet-style hotel with panoramic views, the Union has welcomed guests since 1891, operated by the Mjelva family for four generations. With luxurious amenities including indoor and outdoor pools, a large spa, and various dining options, visitors can enjoy unmatched hospitality and stunning landscapes. Each of the 197 elegantly appointed guestrooms provides beautiful views, ensuring a memorable stay for all.

Catch the holiday spirit: These Are the Hotels We Wish We Were Staying at Over Christmas

25. Laucala Island Resort, Fiji

Laucala is the ultimate luxury resort in Fiji, spanning 3,200 pristine acres and featuring 25 unique villas carved into volcanic cliffs. Recognized as the second most expensive resort in the world with 7 star facilities and service, with rates at $5,000 USD per night it attracts international jetsetters seeking privacy and tranquility. Each villa showcases a blend of modern luxury and traditional Fijian design, featuring free-flowing shapes, high thatch roofs, and local materials like coconut husk and timber. Owned by Red Bull’s Dietrich Mateschitz, the Laucula is one of the most exclusive places to stay, providing attentive service and scenic ocean views.

26. Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, Dubai, UAE

Jumeirah Burj Al Arab is one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks and is celebrated for its prestigious ‘seven-star status.’ Situated on its own island, this sail-shaped structure soars to a height of 321 meters, providing breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. Inside, you’ll find opulent gold interiors, sumptuous suites, and some of Dubai’s finest dining establishments. The lobby features an exquisite spiral chandelier crafted by the Czech design firm Sans Souci, composed of 210 crystal tubes and weighing approximately 450 kilograms. Additional lavish amenities include a fleet of Rolls-Royce cars in the forecourt and a helipad, alongside 10,000 square meters of outdoor space perfect for poolside relaxation.

27. Town House Galleria, Milan, Italy

As both a luxury hotel and a private museum, Galleria Vik Milano showcases an impressive collection of contemporary art and design, creating one of the most original and exclusive hotels in the world. Located in the historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This unique hotel offers a luxurious and unparalleled experience, blending art, beauty and design. Distinctly designed rooms and suites celebrate Milan’s artistic heritage and help earn this hotel its ‘7-star’ moniker. For a taste of luxury, the Town House Galleria is one of the most opulent places to stay, boasting grand architecture and gourmet dining options.

28. Pilgrimage Village, Hue, Vietnam

Experience tranquility and balance at Pilgrimage Village, a serene resort nestled among lush trees and the picturesque countryside of Hue, Vietnam. Engage in meditation, yoga, or tai chi classes, or relax in the rejuvenating steam bath. This traditional Vietnamese resort beautifully integrates with its natural surroundings, featuring lush gardens and charming lily ponds, making it one of the most charming places to stay for nature lovers. With 173 inviting rooms and villas, Pilgrimage Village captures Vietnam’s rich heritage through its exquisite architecture, intricate wood carvings, and luxurious textiles, offering guests a unique and elegant escape. Stay here on one of our TOURS TO ADD HERE.

29. The Palms, Las Vegas, USA

Among of luxury options on the Las Vegas Strip, The Palms stands out for its legendary high-rolling atmosphere. Take the extravagant two-story Sky Villa, for instance. This remarkable 8,500-square-foot retreat boasts a 17-seat bar, fitness center, massage room, gaming area, and a private pool with stunning views of the Vegas skyline, among other amenities. Additionally, the themed Hardwood Suite resembles a “10,000-square-foot” arena, complete with a private basketball court, professional locker room, pool table, whiskey room, and 11 televisions. And that’s just the start of what The Palms has to offer.

30. Kamalaya Koh Samui, Thailand

At Kamalaya retreat, luxury is seamlessly intertwined with wellness. Upon arrival, guests partake in a personalized consultation to craft their ideal wellness journey. Their days unfold with a harmonious mix of expert-guided exercise classes, tailored spa treatments, and gourmet healthy cuisine throughout their stay. Set on a picturesque hillside overlooking a pristine white sand beach and tranquil lagoon, the Kamalaya complex harmonizes beautifully with the lush jungle surroundings. Visitors can find a peaceful cave for reflection, swings that dangle over the water, and suites equipped with private plunge pools for ultimate relaxation.

Make magnificent stays the core of your journey with our limited edition small group journeys.

As a lifelong Londoner, one of the things I love most about the city is that – truly – you can wear what you like. This is the city of diversity, self-expression and creativity – be who you are and feel good doing it. So, why does it feel so easy to get it wrong? Possibly because it’s also the city of the poorly ventilated London Underground, relentless drizzle, and long, uneven walks. And because it’s English. Which means you never know when a unexpected Anglicism is going to catch you unawares. Let’s get into some of the nuances that dictate precisely what to wear to dinner in London. We’ll finish with some dos and don’ts.

How to Dress For Dinner in London:

Dress codes

 If we start by turning our attention to some of the older, classic restaurants, what do we learn? At Claridge’s, “we do not operate any dress code, however we find most of our guests choose smart casual dress”. At The Ritz, “gentlemen are required to wear a jacket and tie” in the main restaurant, while “shorts, trainers and sportswear are not permitted in any of the hotel’s restaurants or bars”. At Rules, “whilst jacket or tie are not required, we prefer smart dress”.

In a lot of ways, these are the easy ones. You probably wouldn’t even consult the dress code before taking afternoon tea at the Ritz, you’d just know you were embarking on something luxe, and you’d want to dress accordingly. The direction that luxury takes you in is really up to you.

Buttoned up pockets:

 There are some pockets of the city that take dress codes more seriously. For instance, there was a “tightening up” of the dress code at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay in Chelsea recently. It now reads:

“We would like all of our guests to feel free to express their own individual style however, we do ask guests to avoid shorts, tracksuits, hoodies and hats. Smart trainers are fine. We know lots of our guests like to dress smartly which we appreciate. Ultimately we want every guest to feel at home.”

I appreciate the distinction between “smart trainers” and the ones you wear to the gym, or “sportswear”. I think it’s important to know that comfort counts for a lot in London, and you know the difference between one sneaker and another.

Even restaurants frequented by royalty have a smart-casual policy these days, though in these corners of London (Mayfair, Kensington), they can have their own ideas about what that actually means – some state that they prefer a jacket over a shirt, some specify “tailored shorts” – but these are few and far between.

Feeling fancy

In fact the reality is that most high end restaurants in London are so relaxed about clothes, you might want to seek out some addressed that are special enough to flex your fanciest looks. If you’re looking for restaurants with stunning surrounds, consider Berners Tavern for glamorous chandeliers and cornicing to befit a stately home, Bob Bob Ricard for pie and champagne in sumptuous booths, The Dover for seventies Sophia Loren-style splendour or Booking Office 1869 for vast interiors and indoor palm trees.

Dining in London: Dos and Don’ts

Dos:

Black

There is no need to wear black if you usually don’t. But if you own a chic black jacket, dress or pair of pants that makes you feel fabulous, consider it the key to your capsule wardrobe. You can go in any direction you please from there.

 A good coat (or jacket, or indeed shacket)

If your restaurant manager is kind enough to help you slip your coat from your shoulders on to a hanger, you want to feel really good watching it disappear into the closet. In London, for obvious reasons, you cannot underestimate the power of a good coat – it almost doesn’t matter what’s underneath.

Comfy shoes

As we’ve established, even Claridge’s wants you to feel at home. Nothing mars an unforgettable meal like a pair of blisters. Wear the good trainers, or the boots you know like the back of your … foot.

 A woollen jumper

When autumn arrives, knitwear is practically a sport in London. Whether it’s a classic navy cashmere number, or a bright, oversize piece, wearing a jumper you love is the cosiest way to express yourself, and to feel fully ensconced at the table.

Don’ts:

Grey

I’m sure Stanley Tucci could pull it off, but we don’t need to try. If there’s one thing we have enough of here, it’s grey – in the sky and in the hue of people’s sun-deprived skin as winter prattles on. Please consider Londoners by leaving your grey suits at home. 

Tiny umbrellas

I’ve lost more of those soggy minis under restaurant tables than I can bear to think about, but I have a big, gold leopard print (hard to miss) one that’s been with me for almost 10 years.

Worry

You will not “look like a tourist” – there is no such thing here. Even the classic look (cycling shorts, baggy souvenir t-shirt, socks and trainers) looks great in the right establishment (not one that hates sportswear). And everyone is using Google Maps to navigate Soho (although when in Rome – or London – Citymapper is the preferred app of choice).

Overthink

Londoners can smell outfit insecurity a mile off. You just pulled this old thing out of the suitcase and threw it on – right? 

What about Crocs and flops?

One has to operate some discretion when it comes to open toes and so forth. It’s a no to your old Havaianas, a yes to your key lime platform Crocs. But that’s just common sense.

Luxury Gold guests are accustomed to a certain level of comfort, but that doesn’t mean they like to scrimp on adventure. If you have a spirit that can’t be quelled and a bucket list that needs tending to in the next year, we have plenty of ideas for luxury adventure vacations that will capture your imagination.

We give each of our luxury adventure tours an activity level: leisurely, balanced or dynamic. And the level of activity is not necessarily equal to the level of adventure. For instance, on a leisurely (short distances, flat surfaces) luxury vacation in New Zealand, you’ll cover cities, caves, hot springs, waterfalls, and a treewalk made up of 28 suspension bridges, and on a dynamic luxury journey to Italy, the Cinque Terre is more intrepid than it looks (longer distances, trickier terrain). Here are six bucket list trips to get you thinking.

Look for the big five in Kruger National Park

Safaris tend to be quite high on everyone’s list of luxury adventure vacations – is it finally time? If your bucket list priority is to see lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffalo (the big five) in one trip, this epic national park offers a diverse range of terrain including mountains, rivers, savannah and tropical forests. On our Spectacular South Africa journey, the private open-air safaris are led by professional trackers over three days and there are plunge pools, starlit dinners and pampering treatments aplenty back at the Lion Sands Game Reserve in between drives. This journey also includes Table Mountain, wineries and more rare wildlife sightings at Boulders Beach.

Board the Rocky Mountaineer, Luxury Gold-style

Adventure travel and rail travel go hand in hand – there is nothing quite like watching the world from your window, particularly if you happen to be sitting in the glass-domed Goldleaf car of the Rocky Mountaineer, on a reclining seat, eating from the a la carte menu (with local wine pairings), with the option of wandering to an open-air viewing vestibule. On our Majesty of the Rockies journey, you’ll travel from Banff to Vancouver, via glaciers, canyons and lakes. Waking up aboard the train on the home-stretch and eating a gourmet breakfast beside some of the most dazzling scenery in the world completes a luxury journey like no other.

Explore the lesser traveled wildernesses of Japan

You may know (and long for) Japan’s cities, sushi, skyscrapers, shrines and cherry blossom sightings but there are breathtaking wonders further afield, too. Oirase Gorge – within the Towada-Hachimantai National Park on the main island – is an enchanting river valley that encompasses verdant forests, dramatic waterfalls and crystal clear streams. Experiencing an onsen in Tokyo is one thing, but taking a soothing soak in the forest is unforgettable. Our Majestic Japan journey is dynamic, which means four miles of walking on some days, with some steep hills. It includes views of Mount Fuji from a cable car, a tea ceremony and a meeting with a cherry blossom doctor, plus mind-expanding meals and some of the most extravagant and cozy hotels in the world.

Hike to get the best sunset views at Angkor Wat

Together, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam make for one of the most epic luxury adventure vacations you can have. There’s the lush greenery, floating markets and flower farms of the Mekong Delta, the Imperial Citadel of Hue, the sheer magic (and the pho) of Hoi An, the glittering emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, ethereal Luang Prabang (the whole town is a UNESCO World Heritage site) and vistas aplenty in between. Nothing beats the golden, glowing view of Angkor Wat, though, at least as good as everyone says it is, reflected in the water below. On our Inspiring Indochina journey, an archaeologist is on hand to guide you to the best spots.

Walk the steep, rugged coastline of the Cinque Terre

In northwest Italy, the Cinque Terre is made up of five pastel-coloured cliffside villages overlooking the Ligurian Sea, connected by narrow walking paths and a few incredibly precarious mountain roads. The Cinque Terre National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site – described as a landscape of great scenic and cultural value. There are 120km of trails along this stretch of coastline, and the breathtaking views alone make it a bucket list walk. See this most rugged, enchanting coastline on our Ultimate Italy journey, which also covers Rome, Umbria, Florence and Venice – truly the luxury vacation to Italy you’ve been dreaming of.

Weave through the cloud forest to Machu Picchu

When one thinks of adventure travel, Machu Picchu comes quickly to mind. In the middle of a tropical mountain forest in Peru, 2,430m above sea level, the sprawling Inca citadel must be seen up close to be believed. On our Grand South America journey, you’ll board the panoramic Vistadome train to Machu Picchu, pausing for lunch above the Vilcanota River followed by a guided walk through the unfathomably lush and mesmerizing cloud forest. This luxury vacation also features wine in Casablanca Valley, Eva Peron’s balcony in Buenos Aires and cocktails on Copacabana Beach.