While you might not be able to fly in via your private jet, the playgrounds of the rich and famous aren’t always out of reach for the everyday man and woman! Take a look at these luxurious and exotic destinations that draw celebrities and the uber-wealthy alike with their range of sought-after activities, fine dining and exclusive experiences. While some might be a bit out of the price range of your average Joe, some just happen to be great places to rub shoulders with the rich and famous!
Bora Bora, French Polynesia, South Pacific
It’s easy to see why stars such as Charlize Theron, Sharon Stone and Nicole Kidman love to visit this beautiful and isolated island – but it definitely doesn’t come cheap! Because it’s so remote, there isn’t much in the way of nightlife, but there is still plenty to do and see, including visiting the Lagoonarium, Diving Centre, the Coral Gardens or the Leopard Rays Trench. Those seeking adventure will be thrilled with the diving opportunities of the natural underwater park, shark feedings, 4×4 safaris and boat rides around the lagoon.
It’s also one of those extra special spots for a honeymoon or romantic getaway, with candlelight dinners on the beach a specialty! Arriving by air, travelers are immediately astounded by the sheer number of shades and hues of blue that the surrounding waters present – from brilliant turquoise to midnight navy and every shade in between. It’s a snorkelers and scuba diver’s paradise, with the rich waters home to a diverse array of species from red snapper, jackfish and lemon sharks to sea turtles and dolphins – even migrating humpback whales.
Thanda Island
If you thought your own luxury private island was out of your reach, think again! Thanda Island, nestled off the coast of Tanzania within its own marine reserve in the Indian Ocean has to be seen to be believed. It offers heaps of privacy, and pristine turquoise waters which are home to whale sharks and marine turtles, as well as being the ideal spot for scuba diving and adventure sports!
Fine dining, a luxury spa, gym, tennis courts, and beautiful walking trails packed with birdlife must surely make this one of the best places on Earth to truly escape the stresses of daily life – and you’ll certainly feel like an A-list celebrity as you do so!
St. Moritz, Switzerland
If you’d rather hit the slopes than the beaches on your next vacation, then the luxury alpine resort of St. Moritz in Switzerland’s Engadin valley is the choice of the rich and famous! It has hosted the Winter Olympics twice, and is home to an outdoor Olympic ice rink and frozen lake which hosts polo, cricket and even horse racing on ice!
Skiing and snowboarding are of course massively popular, and the area caters for every skill level from complete beginners upwards. The town is rich in culture and heritage, and you can get indoors from the cold to enjoy some of those famous Swiss chocolates, cakes and pastries, or a traditional Swiss fondue!
During the summer months the area is popular with hikers, although you can ski all year round. It is also famous as one of the preferred vacation hotpots for members of the Royal Family – so who knows who you might bump into on the slopes (hopefully not literally)!
Ibiza, Spain
World famous for its epic music events and club scene, Europe’s favorite playground in the Mediterranean sea is one of the Balearic islands, and boasts some 100 miles of gorgeous coastline. That coastline is home to countless bars, clubs and restaurants, and more than 50 stunning beaches complete with water activities. Stars like Gerard Butler, Kate Moss and Pixie Lott regularly make Ibiza their holiday destination.
This might be one of those destinations to enjoy while you can before it becomes too exclusive – space is limited after all, and prices are set to skyrocket over the next decade or so. If you use the bus to get around, stick to local fare, and stay in one of the excellent affordable guesthouses, you can still visit this magical isle on a budget. Take in the free cultural activities of the Unesco World Heritage Site and the many lovely walks around the cities, and of course, those miles and miles of beachfront!
Feel like a superstar
One thing these places all have in common is a sense of effortless style – and even if you’re visiting on a budget, you can’t help but feel you’ve fallen into the very lap of luxury!
