This summer, identify the luxury adventure that’s right for you and your group, and get there with the All-New Land Rover Discovery.
Luxury travel is typically associated with big cities or resort locations. Yet travelers-- especially travel groups of various sizes with diverse interests-- now have access to a wealth of different rental options and new travel technology, creating opportunities for unforgettable, splurge-worthy vacation experiences. It just requires a little out-of-the-box thinking.
There’s nothing like waking up right on the waterfront or to a mountain view. Camping is a budget-friendly way to achieve this, but struggling to set-up the tent and sleeping on the hard ground doesn’t exactly scream “luxury.” That is, until recently. One of the latest trends in travel, glamping, combines the best of both of these worlds. Here’s how you can plan for your own DIY glamping vacation:
Select your destination: If you’re going to do it, do it right and wake up to an extraordinary view. At the same time, make sure the campground has electricity and hot showers—your big glamping trip is not the time to be roughing it. Consider some of the campgrounds with more amenities at stunning national parks like Yellow Stone, Joshua Tree, or Crater Lake.
Choose a Tent: You’ll want to relax on this vacation—not stress yourself out wrestling the tent rods. Consider buying a large inflatable tent that can be pitched in seconds with ease.
Consider lighting: Create a relaxing atmosphere for your campsite with some mood lighting. Place tea lights in glass jars or string fairy on your tent. Retro lanterns also make a great addition.
Pack provisions: Splurge on some of your favorite snacks like fancy cheeses, crackers, and charcuterie, and also plan a special meal that can be made on the campfire. Also pack some wine and maybe even treat yourself to a bottle of genuine Champagne packed on ice.
Don’t forget the bedding: A real mattress isn’t practical, but an air mattress is far superior to a sleeping bag. Outfit it with fluffy pillows, high thread-count sheets, and a warm duvet.
Do you ever dream of having your own theater-style television, outdoor kitchen, or infinity pool? Thanks to the growing popularity of vacation home rentals, it can all be yours. It usually comes at a price, but there are ways to cut corners. Laura Hall of Kid & Coe specializes in luxury family home rentals, and she’s an expert on creating trips that are above-and-beyond but still price-conscious. Here are a few of her tips for renting a luxury home without breaking the bank:
1. Wait until under a month before travel to book accommodation to get the best rate. “But be aware that your dream property could sell out,” she warns. “It depends on how attached you are to it.”
2. Make sure the property has a full kitchen and then make your own meals. “Buy locally-made items,” Halls says. “The more local you can get (including shopping at local markets), the better value the goods are.”
3. Rent out your own home while traveling to offset expenses. “With typical rates of $450 per night, it's a great way to make travel pay for itself,” she says.
We all know that Aspen, Napa Valley, Martha’s Vineyard are some of the country’s favorite luxury travel destinations. But there are many other worthy places to travel with similarly posh attractions—and without the crowds and sky-high prices. Head to these up-and-coming luxury destinations before everyone else gets there.
Bend, Oregon
Explore the city’s independent shops, galleries, coffee shops, and legendary craft beer scene. Then retreat to one of downtown Bend’s new boutique hotels or head to the mountains for some fun in the snow at a ski resort.
Finger Lakes Region, New York
This lovely area of Upstate New York has it all— winery tours with high-end restaurants showcasing farm fresh produce. There are also plentiful opportunities for hiking, boating, and visiting historic attractions. And don’t forget about all those gorgeous lakeside resorts.
Hill Country, Texas
Here’s another up-and-coming wine region, but its German heritage means there’s something for beer lovers, as well. Try some of the region’s famed barbecue, go shopping at the boutiques in Fredericksburg, and then go horseback riding at a ranch.
St. Simons Island, Georgia
Located on the southeast Georgia coast, this island has it all—beaches, top-notch golf courses, historical sites, fresh seafood, and plenty of Southern charm. Spring for a seaside resort or even rent a house.
Tucson, Arizona
Both spa-goers and golfers are flocking to this university town that boasts Native American, Spanish, and Mexican influences. Explore the mountains and cacti of Saguaro National Park by day and then feast on top-notch Mexican food at a downtown restaurant by night.