Traveling around the world in luxury has become more expensive in recent months. But luxury travelers, especially Americans, might soon have to tighten their holiday budgets. American travelers love vacationing in the South Pacific and the Caribbean. However, according to a Hotels.com study, daily travel rates at many of these popular holiday destinations have spiraled upwards by 22 percent compared to last year. The Hotels.com study will give the American jetsetter some food for thought.
Worldwide, Switzerland tops as the most expensive country for luxury travelers. Russia, Brazil, Singapore and UK follow on its heels, making up the top 5. The study also lists out the ten costliest cities to travel to. The most expensive city on this list is Bora Bora in French Polynesia with daily rates of $801.58. Take a look at some of the most expensive tourist destinations (in ascending order of rates) where daily travel rates exceed $350.
1. Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands
Cost per night: $352.76
Percentage increase from 2010: 12 percent
Superrich travelers leave their billionaire homes in search of high-end luxury pampering. Providenciales promises all that and more, but at a cost. The island is popular for its rich local cuisine that costs about $20 a plate. But beware of the additional 10 percent tax.
2. Paget, Bermuda
Cost per night: $374.16
Percentage increase from 2010: 14 percent
This beach paradise in Bermuda is a dream come true for the luxury traveler. But high prices are everywhere. A standard 5-litre bottle of wine will set you back by a whopping $54.
3. Southampton, Bermuda
Cost per night: $393.76
Percentage increase from 2010: 17 percent
Do not head here if you are on a budget luxury trip. This picturesque island in the Bermuda chain is expensive from the get-go. Even basic cocktails can set you back by $10 and more.
4. Monte Carlo, Monaco
Cost per night: $406.30
Percentage increase from 2010: 26 percent
Holidaying in Monte Carlo has always been expensive. But never more than now. The historic city has seen a seen a huge price jump over the past year. The per night rates have risen above $400 from a high of $322.62 only last year.
5. Hamilton, Bermuda
Cost per night: $415.70
Percentage increase from 2010: 2 percent
Hamilton in the Bermudas is known for its many high-end clubs. But each of these clubs come with heavy price tags. A game of golf could set you back by $125, club and shoe rentals not included.
6. Soufriere, St. Lucia
Cost per night: $417.85
Percentage increase from 2010: 28 percent
The seafood here is to die for, as is the pristine beauty of this tropical island. But the high costs are a deterrent for many. A bottle of red wine at properties like the fine dining Rainforest Hideaway costs between $120 and $268.
7. Vieques, Puerto Rico
Cost per night: $430.69
Percentage increase from 2010: 28 percent
Pristine beaches, beautiful waves and lush green surroundings make Vieques in Puerto Rico a terrific vacation destination. The minus points? Oppressive prices. Imagine paying $160 an hour for a massage at the W Retreat & Spa.
8. Paradise Island, Bahamas
Cost per night: $436.82
Percentage increase from 2010: 18 percent
Where else can you buy a game of golf for somewhere between $260 and $1904? Paradise Island in the Bahamas is heaven in a hundred different ways. But make sure you are not burdened with things like travel budgets.
9. Moorea, French Polynesia
Cost per night: $509.66
Percentage increase from 2010: 36 percent
French Polynesia is famous for its pearl jewelry. But this does not come cheap. We have heard of green pearl necklaces selling for $24,000, with the cheaper variety costing $18,000.
10. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Cost per night: $801.58
Percentage increase from 2010: 37 percent
Often regarded as one of the most romantic spots on earth, Bora Bora in French Polynesia is also the most expensive city on this list. Luxury travelers will still head here despite the enormous spurt in prices that pushed the daily rate from just under $600 to $801.58.
