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Travel: Top luxury destinations for 2010
For many travellers, the privilege of travelling in style may come with too large a price tag -- or so they may think. However, the price tag for luxury holidays in 2010 is likely to come as a pleasant surprise. As the travel industry continues to recover from the global financial crisis believes that 2010 will be a year of travel 'up-starring', as Indian travellers continue to take advantage of the great deals on offer by hotels and airlines whilst adding a bit of glitz and glamour to their holiday.
For travellers who are flexible with dates and destinations, luxury accommodation in particular is currently offering first-class value for money. Here are the top ten destinations around the world that offer fantastic value for money, with accommodation at five-star hotels for less than Rs10,500 per night.
Malaysia
Malaysia is an eclectic country full of diverse cultures and natural wonders and is arguably one of Asia's hidden treasures. Without the crowds, typical of some of its neighbours, guests can freely explore the stunning beaches and swim in the crystal clear waters, traipse through the ancient rainforests filled with exquisite wildlife or even charter a boat to explore the coastline.
Kota Kinabalu is a perfect holiday spot for those looking to unwind in luxury but enjoy the vibrancy of a city. Kota Kinabalu provides plenty of opportunities for shopping in its markets and there are outstanding dining options aplenty scattered along the shores of the town's long, sandy beaches. unspoilt islands are only a 10 minute boat ride away.
Where to stay: Shangri La's Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa
Tariff: Starts at Rs 8,100 per room, per night.
Sri Lanka
As the old saying goes, 'Good things come in small packages.' The same can be said of Sri Lanka. A small island nation, it enjoys spectacular beaches, national parks and wildlife.
Recently, Sri Lanka has firmly returned to its place on the luxury travel map and the country has developed its luxury holiday services to include a selection of affordable first class hotels, spas, shopping and fine dining alternatives for travellers looking for a lavish island escape.
Where to stay: Heritance Ahungalla
Tariff: Starts at Rs10,400 per room, per night.
Bali
Bali is a tried and tested favourite for Indians looking for an affordable tropical getaway. Luxury spa resorts, upmarket restaurants and fantastic quality shopping dominate the Bali guidebook and add to its appeal as a luxury holiday destination.
If you are looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of Kuta, head north to Ubud, away from the beaches, and immerse yourself in Bali's rich culture whilst you gaze over the surrounding rice fields and ancient temples.
Where to stay: Komaneka Tanggayuda (Ubud)
Tariff: Starts at Rs 8,000 per room, per night
South Africa
Visitors are left awestruck by this diverse and intriguing country. Hard currency goes far in this country and visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding how to spend it.
There is a vast range of private game parks offering luxurious lodges, while Cape Town presents a lively coastal city atmosphere with upmarket hotels and fantastic high quality shopping at excellent prices. For a quieter alternative, head along the Garden Route, a picturesque stretch of the south-eastern coast of South Africa, which combines stunning mountain and ocean vistas.
Where to stay: St James of Knysna.
Tariff: Starts at Rs 10,000 per room, per night.
United Kingdom
What was once a frightfully expensive holiday destination, a luxury holiday in the UK is now more affordable than ever due to the declining strength of Pound Sterling.
While the UK has many nooks and crannies to explore, from the beachside towns of Cornwall and Devon to the delightful university towns of Oxford and Cambridge, it is hard to go past London, where travellers seeking a glamorous experience are spoilt for choice.
With well-heeled neighbourhoods such as Knightsbridge and Notting Hill to explore, and famed restaurants galore, it is unlikely you will leave London without plans to return.
Where to stay: Courthouse Doubletree by Hilton London, Regent Street
Tariff: Starts at Rs 10,100 per room per night.
United States of America
America is a favourite for many Indian travellers who want to see for themselves the big, bold and beautiful sites this country possesses. With hotels and high-end stores offering great rates, there has never been a better time to tackle this vast and diverse land.
If you are looking to live the life of a high roller without having to break the bank, head directly to Las Vegas, where travellers can now live like a star and enjoy incredible luxuries such as deluxe hotels, limousines and personal shoppers for a fraction of the normal price.
Where to stay: The Bellagio Hotel (Las Vegas)
Tariff: Starts at Rs 6,000 per room per night.
New Zealand
While New Zealand's natural environment, from stunning coastline to volcanic peaks, will take your breath away, the favourable exchange rate with the New Zealand Dollar currently offers tremendous value to enjoy its beauty in style. And, as one of the least crowded countries in the world, it may feel like you have it all to yourself.
In particular, the South Island's inspiring scenery goes hand in hand with an impressive range of adventure activities. If you plan on spending your days experiencing all the luxury and excitement this part of the world has to offer, in either summer or winter, then head to Queenstown, where you can wind down and enjoy one of the town's many luxury hotels, the first-class restaurant scene and nearby wineries, all of which present outstanding value for money.
Where to stay: Millbrook Resort (Queenstown)
Tariff: Starts at Rs 8,700 per room, per night.
Egypt
Egypt is a fascinating country that offers visitors an unrivalled historical experience. However, the possibilities of a holiday in Egypt extend well beyond the famous pyramids of Giza and its reputation as the 'land of the mummies'.
Travellers can take pleasure in the Red Sea, which presents some of the best diving and fishing opportunities in the world, or climb Mt Sinai, at a height of 2285 meters, to watch the stunning sunset or sunrise.
For a classic Egyptian experience visit Luxor, often referred to as the world's largest 'open air museum' and sitting on the famous Nile river. There are countless ancient attractions and almost as many affluent hotels for the tired traveller to rest.
Where to stay: Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa
Tariff: Starts at Rs 8,300 per room, per night.
Fiji
Bula! As friendly locals welcome visitors to Fiji's archipelago of 300 plus islands, and you glimpse the stunning coastline, you immediately feel tranquillity wash over you.
While swimming in crystal blue waters and sipping cocktails on white sandy beaches exceed all fantasies, Fiji's main island of Viti Levu also possesses a marvellous hinterland featuring waterfalls, caves and panoramic views that begs to be explored.
Amongst the spectacular coastline and hinterland of the main island is the charming Natadola Beach, one of Fiji's most famed swimming spots, and a must see when visiting Viti Levu, while the Yasawa and Mamanuca island groups each offer their own unique Pacific island character and charm.
Where to stay: InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa
Tariff: Starts at Rs 10,200 per room, per night.
Turkey
Turkey, a place of great historical significance and natural beauty, has now added 'first-class holiday destination' to its repertoire.
Whether it is visiting the historical sites, swimming in the Mediterranean or spending the afternoon being pampered at a hamam (Turkish bath), a visit to Turkey will exceed all expectations.
For a hip, stylish city stay head to Istanbul, where nightfall sees the vibrant city come alive with numerous restaurants, bars and clubs.
Where to stay: InterContinental Ceylan, Istanbul
Tariff: Starts at Rs 8,200 per room, per night.
All prices quoted are correct as of 16 December 2009. Published offers are subject to availability and may be discontinued without further notice. Prices listed include all fees and taxes, but may fluctuate due to changes in taxes, fees and currency.