Flying on a private jet, booking a room with the best view, and exploring hottest destinations like New York and the Amalfi Coast are just a few of the reasons why luxury vacations draw travelers. But a lavish vacation doesn’t have to cost a fortune: With some hunting for deals and a little planning, it’s entirely possible to book hotels, experiences, and entire trips that would normally seem impossible.
Take the trip of a lifetime without blowing your savings: these 13 affordable luxury vacations will wow you with the journey and the price.
Stay in a French castle.
Airbnb
Some Airbnb properties are for the ultra-rich and cost tens of thousands of dollars, but even those on a budget might find some hidden gems. Jet off to France and live out your royal dreams by staying in a three-bedroom castle with a pool for under $100 a night.
Let’s go glamping.
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Stylish camping accommodation allows you to experience beautiful natural views without sacrificing the comfort of a hotel stay. Glamping sites are available at a range of prices, but you can find options for under $100 a night. Stay in an eco-bungalow in the jungle at Akumal Natura Glamping in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, or watch the sun set over the ocean from a tent at Picnic Garden Glamping on Awaji Island in Japan. Of course, glamping opportunities abound in the United States, from tree houses in Texas to wagon rides in Utah.
Discover the joy of living in Paris.
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Whether you want to explore the famous attractions of the 6th Arrondissement or hang out in a trendy neighborhood like the Marais, you can find affordable hotels in almost every part of Paris. But there’s something even more magical about a stay in the City of Lights with dreamy views of the Eiffel Tower outside your window. Depending on the season, you can get a room with a view of the iconic landmark for under $300 a night at Hôtel de Londres Eiffel or Hotel La Comtesse.
Take advantage of cheap private flights.
Provided by JSX
A ticket with JSX gives you a semi-private flight experience for (almost) commercial airline prices, access to a private terminal, and the ability to go from parking to takeoff in just 20 minutes, or 45 minutes for international flights. No more stressing about arriving at the airport early, waiting in long lines, or being crammed into an economy class seat. However, flights are only available between a few cities on the West Coast, including many in Texas, Miami, Florida, and Westchester County, New York.
Enjoy a chic trip to Colombia.
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The Colombian port city of Cartagena is a dream getaway, and with a little research, you can make it happen with a budget reservation at the Oz Hotel, a chic spot where you can stay for well under $100 a night, near the beach, and with a rooftop terrace with city views.
Discover the dreamy Dar es Salaam.
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Tourists are quick to head to the resorts in Zanzibar, Tanzania, one of the top destinations for honeymoons and other romantic getaways. While there’s no denying the quality of these pricey seaside accommodations, you can get a similar luxurious beach experience for a much more affordable price on the Tanzanian mainland.
Located on the shores of Jangwani Beach, the Ramada by Wyndham in Dar es Salaam offers rooms for under $150 a night. It’s a great way to explore the nearby city while enjoying the waves of the Indian Ocean. The hotel also offers an airport shuttle and late check-out.
Have fun in New York’s hippest neighborhood.
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Instead of being crammed into a cramped, expensive hotel room in Manhattan, base yourself in the bustling areas of Brooklyn and save a little money. If you want to stay central, the Ace Hotel near Downtown Brooklyn will set you back around $200 a night. In Williamsburg, home to great restaurants, trendy bars and chic shops, you can stay at the Coda Hotel from $150 and The Hoxton Hotel from $200.
Do you want to experience the taste of Thailand?
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Enjoy a stress-free and unforgettable trip to Southeast Asia on Friendly Planet’s 10-day trip across Thailand for around $2,200 per person. With round-trip airfare, hotel accommodations and visits to some of Thailand’s most historic sites (including the ancient city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site), this is a deal not to be missed.
Experience the sweet life in Amalfi.
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You don’t have to stay in a former palace to enjoy stunning views of the charming towns and cliffs along the Amalfi Coast. With rates starting at around $200, Valle d’Amalfi Suites is a budget option. Set in the lush hills within walking distance of Amalfi’s historic center, this 4-star hotel offers breathtaking sea and city views.
Book a great value Mexican Casita.
Hotel Las Brisas Acapulco
A stay at a beachfront suite at Hotel Las Brisas in Acapulco, Mexico, is a great way to pamper yourself without breaking the bank: From around $175 a night, you can book a casita with a private pool and stunning coastal views.
Stay overnight in a luxurious Tulum cabana.
Ahua Tulum
Great accommodations and private beach access make Ahau Tulum well worth a visit. For around $200 a night, depending on the season, you can stay in a charming Balinese hut.
Relax on the banks of the Siem Reap River in Cambodia.
Jaya House Hotel
Relax in this 36-room 5-star hotel on the banks of the Siem Reap River in Cambodia. All rooms at Jaya House River Park have a balcony view or direct access to the gardens or pool. The famous temple complex of Angkor Wat is about a 10-minute drive away. Rates vary depending on the season, but start at under $300 a night.
Explore South Africa’s wine regions.
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The sunny vineyards of Franschhoek, South Africa, are a wine lover’s paradise, and if you plan your trip in the off-season, you can score some incredibly cheap hotel rates. Check out the Franschhoek Boutique Hotel , with rates starting from $130 a night and located just a stone’s throw from one of the trolley stops, giving you easy access to the region’s various wineries.
