Traveling in style is a big part of being rich is good. Flying to an ultra-luxury vacation spot in an instant is the epitome of the high life. If money isn't an issue, why not spend your vacation in paradise?
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But most people are lucky enough to have two weeks of hard-earned vacation a year, and they have to save and save to put all their money to good use when they can. yeah.
Still, even the average person with an average income can follow in the footsteps of the wealthy if they know the secrets to visiting luxury neighborhoods on a budget. Here's where the super-rich vacation, and some tips for how you can do it too.
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french riviera
The Cote d'Azur, on France's southeastern Mediterranean coast, has been one of the most popular vacation destinations for the ultra-wealthy for more than a century.
“This place has been very prestigious since the 1800s, but became even more popular with the advent of jet airplanes in the mid-20th century,” said Scott Poniwas, who served on the board for 15 years. He has worked in the luxury travel and sales space and currently leads EXEC, a travel and lifestyle benefits solution for individuals and organizations.
“The area boasts extensive open beaches, sparkling waters and the annual Grand Prix, making it a frequent favorite area among yacht owners and race fans,” he continued. “This is also a focal point for filmmakers and enthusiasts attending the Cannes Film Festival.
Visit the playground of the rich — even if you're not
Although the Côte d'Azur is known for attracting the world's elite, Ponywas argues that ordinary people can arrange a visit without borrowing a billionaire's bank account.
“There are many ways to make travel more affordable, including traveling by train instead of by plane, staying in apartments instead of hotels, and limiting yourself to primarily small towns and regions.” He said.
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Lake Como, Italy
Ponywas also singled out Lake Como as a particularly luxurious holiday destination that is popular not only with garden-variety millionaires but also with wealthy celebrities. “In fact, George Clooney has made Lake Como his home,” he said.
“This area is notable for its beautiful views and neoclassical villas. European aristocrats have long favored this place thanks to the decadent atmosphere of the place, influenced by the 1920s.'' There is no doubt that there are many competitive islands, each with its own charm.
“Portofino, for example, is a famous fishing village known for its peace and tranquility, while Costa Smeralda is busier with a variety of hotels and restaurants.”
The non-Clooney alternative
Ponywas says you don't have to be a Hollywood celebrity to take a trip to Lake Como.
“The key is to time your visit during the off-season, preferably around the peak of April or September,” he says. “You can also save money by limiting your visits to day trips or short breaks away from your main vacation.”
maldives
The Maldives is known as a paradise for millionaires and billionaires because they can afford a unique blend of exclusivity and luxury. Most people can't.
“Accommodation prices can be staggering, with some villas costing more than $50,000 per night,” says Saya Nagori, travel expert and CEO of Wonder DC. states.
“For the ultra-wealthy, these costs are just a drop in the ocean. These luxury villas feature private pools with direct access to the turquoise waters, luxurious bathrooms with oceanfront views, and plenty of amenities for the discerning taste. It has many other amenities to meet your needs.”
Prices are determined by when you visit.
You may be able to afford a vacation in the Maldives. It will work when wealthy people are flocking elsewhere.
“For the average traveler seeking Maldives adventure, timing is everything,” says Nagori. “The off-season is a chance to experience this destination without breaking the bank. Room rates during this period can plummet to $1,000 per night.”
According to Conde Nast Traveler, the Maldives' off-season runs from May to August.
“There is also the potential for more affordable options to emerge beyond the luxury resorts frequented by the ultra-wealthy,” says Nagori. “For the average traveler, the key that opens the door to Maldives paradise lies in strategic planning. By considering the off-season, exploring less-populated areas, and taking advantage of affordable accommodations, you can can turn unattainable dreams into reality.”
Paradise private island
For the average person, a luxury vacation is a trip to an island, but the ultra-wealthy have an island all to themselves.
Justin Crabbe, travel expert and founder of private charter jet company JetRee, said: “Multimillionaires are attracted to private islands in regions such as the Caribbean and French Polynesia, especially celebrities seeking complete privacy.'' We will come together,” he said.
An island of your own for the average traveler? Yes, maybe.
Private islands offer the ultimate in exclusivity, but the savviest travelers can find a way to vacation like a millionaire, even if they can't spend like one .
“Thanks to sporadic special offers from luxury resorts, budget tourists can now buy idyllic beach villas and overwater bungalows in Bora Bora and the Maldives,” Crabbe said.
“Keeping an eye on flash sale websites can save you a lot of money. In the meantime, you can take advantage of all-inclusive packages for a cheap private island vacation, especially in the Caribbean. .”
Elite ski destinations of the world
Mountain towns with world-class ski slopes are a magnet for wealthy travelers with money to burn.
“Mountain vacation spots like Aspen, Colorado, Switzerland and the Canadian Rockies are attracting wealthy people with their ultra-luxury chalets and slope amenities,” Crabbe said.
Hit the slopes at a downhill price
Skiing is an expensive sport, but even those with modest incomes can enjoy a vacation on one of the world's most coveted mountains.
“Lesser-known resort communities like Park City, Utah and Mont-Tremblant, Quebec offer great skiing at more affordable prices,” Crabbe says.
“Summer is a big deal. In April and May, hotel rates at many luxury ski resorts can drop by more than 80%. Another new, affordable ski area with stunning mountain views is Slovenia. No matter your destination, spending money on après-ski cocktails, ski passes, and equipment rentals can be expensive, so you can save money by planning ahead.”
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: The ultra-wealthy spend big on vacations in these 5 places: How to visit cheaply
