Quick answer: For a splurge, the standout luxury destinations are the Maldives, Bora Bora, Switzerland, the Amalfi Coast and Dubai.
These destinations are built for indulgence — world-class hotels, service and scenery worth the splurge.
The 10 best luxury destinations
Maldives
Private overwater villas, butlers and house reefs — the benchmark for barefoot luxury.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
The iconic turquoise lagoon and overwater bungalows.
Switzerland
Alpine grand hotels, spas and scenic luxury rail.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Cliffside five-stars, yachts and long Mediterranean lunches.
Dubai, UAE
Ultra-modern luxury hotels, dining and shopping.
Santorini, Greece
Caldera-view cave suites and private infinity pools.
Seychelles
Private-island resorts and pristine beaches.
Kyoto, Japan
Refined ryokan, kaiseki dining and exquisite gardens.
Aspen, USA
World-class skiing and mountain luxury.
Cape Town & the Winelands, South Africa
Luxury lodges, fine wine and dramatic scenery.
How to choose
Choose by setting: tropical seclusion (Maldives, Bora Bora, Seychelles), alpine elegance (Switzerland, Aspen), or culture-and-cuisine (Amalfi, Kyoto, Cape Town). Shoulder season brings lower rates even at the top end.