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Middle-class Americans often have the luxury of being able to afford at least one annual vacation, but even they still have to do it. save to get there. After all, they usually have to factor in accommodation, food, entertainment, local transportation, and airfare. And that doesn't even include at-home costs, like pet-sitting services, passports or visas.
For those wanting a luxury vacation, it's even more important to save up beforehand. Depending on the cost of this trip – which could easily cost thousands or tens of thousands of dollars – it could take months or even years to raise the funds.
Sometimes, especially if it means spending your entire savings, luxury travel isn't all it's cracked up to be. Here are the top luxury travel destinations you really shouldn't save for if you're middle class.
Private islands in the Maldives or French Polynesia
Booking a stay on a private island is the epitome of luxury, but it comes with exorbitant costs.
“Private islands in the Maldives or French Polynesia, for example, can easily reach $5,000 per night, with additional expenses for transportation and food,” said Hollie McKay, vice president of communications for Hotel planner. “Overwater bungalows in the Maldives cost between $5,000 and $20,000 per week.”
And that doesn't take into account the airfare, entertainment, and visa fees you'll likely have to pay to visit and truly enjoy these destinations.
Luxury safaris in Kenya or Tanzania
Going on safari could be the adventure of a lifetime; but if you're middle class, you might want to avoid the ultra-luxurious experience and opt for something more affordable, but just as fun.
“Luxury safari lodges in Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa now cost between $7,000 and $15,000 per person for a seven- to 10-day trip,” McKay said.
They usually come with private guides and premium accommodations, but the price may not be worth it if your main goal was simply to have a unique experience.
Again, you'll need to factor in flights to and from your destination. If you're traveling from New York to Tanzania, for example, a round-trip economy class flight costs between $1,300 and $1,900. If you want to splurge on a more luxurious flight, expect to pay a lot more than that.
Luxury Ski Resorts in Aspen or Switzerland
Some luxury ski resorts, like those in Switzerland or Aspen, may not be worth it either. You'll need to factor in not only airfare, but also lift tickets, ski rentals, meals, and on-site accommodation. Excluding airfare, it can cost between $3,000 and $5,000 per person per week, according to McKay. Courchevel's high-end ski resorts can also cost between $6,000 and $15,000 per week for two people.
It's not just the price that makes these destinations not worth it.
“These destinations often cater to an upscale clientele (and) might not have the same appeal for a middle-class traveler looking for cultural immersion or local experiences,” McKay said.
The Caribbean
Living in the Caribbean may not be that expensive, but vacationing there can be if you're looking for the ultimate luxury. According to McKay, a week's stay at a luxury resort could cost between $4,000 and $12,000 for two people. And if you opt for fine dining and other high-end experiences, you might be looking at a very expensive trip.
World Cruises
Although not a specific destination, McKay also advised against luxury ocean cruises with cruise lines like Regent Seven Seas and Crystal Cruises. Although they typically offer all-inclusive packages, you can also expect prices ranging from $3,000 to $20,000 per person.
Treat yourself to a luxury vacation
Everyone's preferences are different, so it's entirely possible that one middle-class family might find it worth going to one of these places while another might not. But if you want to experience luxury without the high price tag, there are several ways to ease the financial burden.
“Consider off-season travel to luxury destinations, where prices can drop significantly during the shoulder or off-season – think $1,500 to $2,000 per night for a luxury hotel during the low season,” said McKay. “You can also treat yourself to a few nights in a luxury hotel in a prime location – between $500 and $1,000 per night – and opt for more economical accommodations for the rest of the trip. »
You can also add a few luxury experiences – like a Michelin-starred dinner or a private cooking class – to your trip rather than making the entire trip around these experiences.
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