There’s no denying that holidays are the highlight of our annual calendars, and enjoying a short break from your day-to-day routine – ideally with plenty of sunshine – can make a world of difference to mental health and wellbeing. We all need to get away from it all on occasion, and the opportunity to relax and unwind is vital to ensuring our ‘cups’ remain full – but planning a luxury trip can be stressful if you don’t know where to start.
After a two-year hiatus from international travel thanks to the global pandemic, thousands of us are planning to jet off this summer and make up for lost time, so if you want to ensure your escape goes smoothly and that you beat the security queues at British airports in recent weeks, then there’s no time like the present to start working out the details. Here, we take a look at all of the factors to consider to ensure your lavish holiday is just as restorative as it should be – leaving you free to relax and enjoy.
Decide on a location
The first big decision to make when it comes to planning your luxury holiday is where you want to go – and while it might sound obvious, it’s something many people struggle to agree on. Sitting down with your partner or whoever else might be accompanying you and talking about what you each want to get out of the trip is a great way to start narrowing down the options and working out a shortlist.
For example, if de-stressing is at the top of your agenda, you might like the idea of a secluded private island with an opulent spa, while someone who prefers more of an action-packed break might like the idea of going on safari or doing some extreme sports.
From here, you’ll likely be able to come to a compromise and choose a destination that offers elements of both – and then, you can look for accommodation. The likelihood is that you’ll both want high-end facilities, great dining options and impeccable service, so this bit should be a little easier to agree on.
Think about how you will travel
While some national destinations are accessible by road or rail, those further afield and abroad are easier accessed via air travel, or in some cases, sea travel. While your mode of transport is often one of the simplest factors to decide upon, it’s important to check that there is availability for your chosen route on your desired dates – and if you’re eager to fly first class, then you’ll need to book early to ensure you get the best seats.
If you prefer to be out on the water, then taking a cruise or hiring out a lavish luxury yacht are great options and will allow you to relax and enjoy the facilities as you go. If you’re feeling extra extravagant, then why not splash out on your own high-end vessel? There are plenty of power boats and yachts for sale that will allow you to take as many water-based luxury holidays as you like for years to come, making them the kind of gifts that just keep on giving.
Book activities and hobbies for your party
By this point, you should already have a fairly good idea of the types of things you and your travel companions would like to indulge in during your getaway, but booking activities and excursions before you arrive will guarantee you avoid any disappointment should there be limited or no availability on arrival.
If you’d like to enjoy a special meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant, for example, then making an advanced reservation is essential, as tables will undoubtedly book up fast. And should you wish to take a private boat trip, safari or city tour then it’s also wise to check the dates and times these can be enjoyed so that you can see how they’ll fit in with your schedule.
At the same time, you will need to think about the physical abilities of those who are going too. Taking everyone’s needs into account when booking activities will go a long way towards ensuring that everyone has a great time.
Make a list of what you should take with you
Packing can be one of the most stressful parts of going away, and leaving it until the last minute is guaranteed to leave you pulling your hair out – so plan ahead and create a list of what you should take on holiday a week or two beforehand. This will allow you some time to go shopping for anything you don’t currently have or that needs updating – for example, if you need a new bikini for the beach, or some spare memory cards for your camera, then these are things you won’t want to go without.
Going through your summer holiday wardrobe and considering what you’re going to be doing whilst away will help you decide which garments to pack and enable you to plan outfits beforehand. In doing so, not only will you always have something practical to put on at the right moment to ensure maximum comfort throughout, but you’ll also have some show-stopping outfits lined up for evening drinks and dinners that will make you feel like a million dollars.
If you struggle to pack light, then consider whether you might be able to acquire some of the things you need at your destination – such as soaps, shampoos and sunscreen. And be sure to save room so you can take some souvenirs and gifts back home with you, too.
Going on a luxury holiday should be a blissful experience from start to finish, and with a little forward planning, it can be just that. So, start early, and you’re guaranteed to enjoy the process and the anticipation as much as the trip itself.
