Plan Your Dream Trip: Top 10 Luxury Destinations to Bookmark

Time will come when you’ll graduate from backpacking—or you probably already did! With a larger disposable income and some help from your credit card, you can now afford more lavish vacations. 

But where to go? 

Bask in the tropical sun on an exotic island somewhere in the Indian Ocean. Go on a shopping spree in one of Europe’s most fashionable cities. Or if you’re the adventurous type, take snaps of penguins in an icy desert.  

The world is big, so you have a lot of options. To narrow down your choices, check out this list of luxury destinations. 

Top 10 Luxury Holiday Destinations: Where to Go for Your Dream Vacation

Whether you’re a beach lover or a cityscape aficionado, consider these dream destinations: 

📍 Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Estimated budget: ₱100,000 to ₱150,000 per person for a one-week trip 

A playground for billionaires and the society’s elites, Dubai is a tourist magnet in the Middle East. This luxury destination is a shopaholic’s paradise, as evidenced by its impressive shopping destinations—the Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and The Outlet Village by Meraas. 

Enjoy uninterrupted views of the city at the top of Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Visit the Global Village to see and experience more than 90 cultures from all over the world. 

If you prefer adventure, head over to Kite Beach for some kitesurfing or wakeboarding. And don’t leave Dubai without going on a desert safari. Enjoy exciting activities, such as driving a quad bike or riding a camel. 

Read more: To the Land of Sand and Gold: Dubai Tourist Visa in the Philippines

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Credit Card	Annual Fee	Minimum Annual Income Requirement	Key Features
HSBC Red Mastercard	₱2,500	₱200,000	4x bonus points on online, shopping, dining, and overseas transactions 1 bonus point for every ₱20 spend 6% rebate on your first Caltex fuel purchase and 3% fuel rebates year-round
HSBC Live+ Credit Card	₱5,000	₱200,000	Cashback on various categories: Dining - Up to 8% Online and offline shopping - 5%  Entertainment (such as movies) - 5%  Fast food and applicable merchants - 2%  Caltex transactions - 6% on your first transaction; 3% all year round
HSBC Gold Visa Cash Back	₱2,500	₱200,000	5% rebate on dining transactions 0.20% rebate on all other transactions 3% rebate on Caltex fuel purchases
HSBC Premier Mastercard	Waived for life	At least ₱3.6 million (applicants are also eligible when they meet the required Total Relationship Balance of ₱3 million or they have an existing home loan with the bank worth at least ₱6 million)	3x bonus points on local shopping or dining transactions 4 bonus points for every ₱20 spend on overseas purchases 1 air mile for as low as ₱25 spend Membership to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide Free travel insurance  6% rebate on your first Caltex fuel purchase and 3% fuel rebates year-round

📍 Australia and New Zealand 

Estimated budget: ₱200,000 to ₱300,000 person for a two-week trip  

Thanks to their majestic natural landscapes and beautiful cities, these two countries in the Southern Hemisphere are big favorites among luxury travelers.

If you’re starting your trip in Australia, make Sydney your first stop. Take countless pictures of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbor Bridge, feel the urban vibe at Darling Harbour, and enjoy the company of trees and flowers at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney.

Melbourne is another Australian city you shouldn’t miss. It’s known for its artsy and trendy neighborhoods, populated with food joints and cafés. Plan a road trip on the Great Ocean Road and enjoy the breathtaking views of the cliffs and the sea. 

On the other hand, famous destinations in New Zealand include the Hobbiton^TM in Matamata, which is the set for the movies The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit; Rotorua, known for its hot springs and preservation of Maori culture; and Fiordland,^[1] which boasts verdant mountains and peaceful fjords. 

Include Auckland on your list. New Zealand’s largest city is home to famous attractions, such as the Hauraki Gulf islands, the Sky Tower, and various hiking tracks. 

Read more: To the Land Down Under: How to Apply for an Australian Tourist Visa

📍 France

Estimated budget: ₱100,000 to ₱150,000 per person for a one-week trip

There are countless luxury European holidays to choose from. But if you’re into fashion, art, architecture, and top-tier cuisine, France is the place to be. 

Chances are, Paris will be your first stop in this country. While here, the Eiffel Tower is an automatic destination. 

Get a glimpse of the Mona Lisa at The Louvre. Walk along the Avenue des Champs-Élysées and shop at one of its high-end stores or enjoy your sweet time at a dainty café. At the end of the avenue, you’ll be treated to the imposing yet magnificent view of the Arc de Triomphe.  

If you’re yearning for some warmth, head to Provence, where the open skies and lavender fields will welcome you. But if your idea of a luxurious vacay includes sipping wine in a yacht while soaking in the Mediterranean sun, make the French Riviera or the Côte d'Azur your destination. 

Read more: Europe, Here I Come: Schengen Visa Requirements in the Philippines

📍 Bhutan 

Estimated budget: ₱220,000 to ₱250,000 per person for a one-week trip 

For many travelers, a luxury vacation means escaping the loud city lights and stressful overtourism. If you agree with this, Bhutan may be the perfect fit for you. 

This landlocked South Asian country is known for its picturesque valleys, peaceful hiking trails, and warm people. Make your first stop at Thimphu, the country’s capital, where you can marvel at serene monasteries, old fortresses, and museums. 

Visit Paro to see the iconic Taktsang Palphug Monastery, or the Tiger’s Nest, which was built in the 17th century. What makes this destination one-of-a-kind is that it was constructed on the cliffside of the Paro Valley. 

The expanse of Phobjikha Valley, on the other hand, will make you feel like you’re inside a real-life postcard. That’s all thanks to its lush greenery set against the backdrop of the blue skies. 

While Bhutan is a charming and tranquil country, getting here is expensive for two main reasons. First, you need to secure connecting flights. Second, you have to cover the country’s Sustainable Development Fee, which costs US$200 or more than ₱11,000 per day.^[2] 

🛡️ Protect Yourself and Your Wallet with Travel Insurance 

No matter how luxurious your trip is, risks and unforeseen events always lurk around the corner. Protect yourself financially with travel insurance. Shield yourself from losses due to flight delays, accidents, trip cancellations, and more. 

Check out your options and apply via Moneymax: 

Provider	Starting Premium	Medical/Accidental Death or Disablement Coverage	Trip Cancellation Coverage	Baggage Loss/Damage
OONA Travel Insurance	₱299	Up to ₱5 million	Up to ₱128,000	Up to ₱42,600 subject to ₱4,000 per item
PGAI Travel Shield Insurance	₱361	Up to ₱2.5 million	Up to ₱200,000	Up to ₱50,000 subject to ₱10,000 per item
PGA SOMPO TravelJOY Plus	₱463	Up to ₱2.5 million	Up to ₱70,000	Up to ₱5,000 per item
Cocogen Travel Excel Plus	₱263	Up to ₱4.2 million	Up to ₱214,000	Up to ₱102,000  subject to ₱12,700 per item

📍 Bali, Indonesia 

Estimated budget: ₱70,000 to ₱100,000 per person for a one-week trip  

The tropical paradise of Bali is known as a go-to for digital nomads, beach lovers, and yoga practitioners. While it has always attracted backpackers from around the world, it also offers a wealth of luxurious hotels, upscale beaches, and exclusive activities. 

Some of the best resorts in the world are found in this Indonesian province. These include Capella Ubud, Raffles Bali, The St. Regis Bali Resort, and The Ritz Carlton, Bali. 

Bali’s collection of destinations is for both active travelers and slow holidaymakers. Kuta Beach, Seminyak Beach, Sanur Beach, and Jimbaran Beach are some of the best spots for swimmers and sunbathers. Want to incorporate long walks into your trip? Visit Tegalalang Rice Terraces and Sekumpul Waterfall. 

Read more: Bali, Indonesia Travel Guide: Get to Know This Paradise Down South

📍 Seychelles 

Estimated budget: ₱150,000 to ₱200,000 per person for a one-week trip 

The smallest country in Africa offers some of the most incredible and beautiful destinations. Seychelles’ tranquil skies, white sand beaches, and turquoise waters make it a romantic destination, attracting power couples such as Victoria and David Beckham, George Clooney and Amala Alamuddin Clooney, and Prince Willam and Kate Middleton. 

This fantastic archipelagic country is full of relaxing destinations for your luxury getaway. Mahe Island, for instance, is known for its lavish five-star resorts. Praslin Island, on the other hand, boasts long stretches of fine sands welcoming the unbelievably clear waters. 

La Digue Island, just like the other islands of Seychelles, has white-sand beaches and gin-clear waters. The coastline is also dotted with large granite boulders that make for perfect photographic subjects. 

Visit Curieuse National Marine Park to see giant tortoises and endemic birds. Choose from activities such as leisurely walks, snorkeling, and picnics.  

📍 The Caribbean

Estimated budget: ₱120,000 to ₱180,000 per person for a one-week trip (may increase or decrease, depending on the country)

From the Dominican Republic to the Cayman Islands, The Caribbean is a massive tropical paradise boasting endless white beaches, endless turquoise waters, and endless fun. The region is composed of many countries and territories, so choosing where to go can be overwhelming. 

Seasoned travelers recommend the Bahamas, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Barbados, the Cayman Islands, and Turks & Caicos for those vacationing with their families. These destinations all feature pristine beaches, exciting activities for kids, and nightlife for adults. 

Honeymooners, on the other hand, may enjoy St. Lucia. This Eastern Caribbean country is known not only for its beaches but also for the Piton mountains and various adventure parks. 

Top luxury Caribbean resorts include Secret Bay in Dominica, Jade Mountain in St. Lucia, Amanyara in Turks & Caicos, Amanera in the Dominican Republic, and The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands. 

Related: Traveling to the U.S. Soon? Here’s How to Get a U.S. Tourist Visa

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📍 Patagonia, Chile, and Argentina 

Estimated budget: ₱100,000 to ₱300,000 per person for a one-week trip

At the tip of South America lies a region famous for its rugged terrain, vistas, and fjords—welcome to Patagonia! 

Measuring more than 1,000,000 km², Patagonia is governed by Chile and Argentina. Regardless of the country you’re in, you’ll be treated to otherworldly, postcard-perfect landscapes. 

If you’re in Chile, admire the breathtaking landscapes of the Torres del Paine National Park. This part of the Chilean Patagonia boasts snow-covered mountains, glaciers, rivers, and lakes. Adventurous travelers will love this national park and its multiple trails for hiking and climbing. 

If you opt to stay in Argentine Patagonia, must-visit places include the Argentine Lake District which features glass-like lakes, white water rapids, and towering peaks. Next to it is the Patagonian Steppe, which is Argentina’s largest desert. 

📍 Kenya 

Estimated budget: ₱180,000 to ₱300,000 per person for a one-week trip 

One defining feature of a luxury destination is that it offers experiences like no other. Kenya easily fits the bill for its safaris. 

Kenya’s national parks and reserves double as safari destinations. First on the list is the Masai Mara National Reserve, which is home to elephants, lions, rhinos, and buffalos. Time your visit during the seasonal migration of wildebeests for that awe-inspiring experience.

If birding is your thing, sign up for a safari in Lake Nakuru National Park. Here, you can observe pink flamingos going about their business at the lake. You can also spot other birds at the park, such as pelicans, long-tailed widowbirds, grey-headed gulls, and Maccoa ducks.

For elephant lovers, add Amboseli National Park to your bucket list. Located in Southern Kenya, this destination houses more than 1,800 elephants.^[3] Lions, leopards, zebras, gazelles, and wildebeests also live in the park. 

Amboseli National Park is also a great spot to view Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro. 

📍 Antarctica

Estimated budget: ₱350,000 to ₱6 million per person, depending on the number of days (e.g., eight days for a flight and cruise package) and location 

There are a few reasons why Antarctica is one of the most expensive holiday destinations in the world. One, getting there usually requires a flight and cruise package. Two, you’ll need to take care of pre-trip expenses, such as equipment and gear, which are usually pricey. Third, your trip’s duration influences the budget. 

There are various destinations in and close to this continent. Go to the South Shetland Islands for icebergs, ice sheets, and glaciers. If you’re brave enough, sail the rough seas of the Drake Passage, a large waterway between Antarctica and the southern tip of South America. Or view penguins in South Georgia. 

But if you want to test your limits and create a personal record, conquer the South Pole. The only catch is that you’ll need to pay more than US$100,000 or around ₱6 million to get there. This premium package, however, already includes a private jet charter that will directly take you to the South Pole, luxurious heated pods, food and drinks (including alcohol), and guiding fees.^[4]

Those who have been to this continent report a surreal yet satisfying experience. There’s no mobile service in Antarctica, disconnecting you from the rest of the world the whole time you’re there. Unlike other popular destinations, creature comforts–—from hotels to restaurants—are non-existent. You’re just surrounded by towering blocks of ice and water. 

Final Thoughts 

A luxury getaway might be what you need to take a break from life’s unending hustle and bustle. While your dream vacation destination might require wads of cash, the experiences and memories that will come with it are priceless. 

Use this list of luxury destinations to plan your next vacation. Read reviews and talk to seasoned vacationers to cover all your bases. 

💳 Plan a Seamless and Comfortable Trip with a Credit Card 

A luxurious vacation calls for a reliable credit card. Use it to conveniently book your flights and hotels or to pay for your shopping hauls wherever you are in the world. Plus, you can earn rewards points, air miles, and more with each transaction. 

Check out your options below and apply via Moneymax: 

Sources: 

• ^[1] Fiordland National Park website
• ^[2] It’s Now Cheaper for Travelers to Go to Bhutan – If They Stay Long Enough (CNBC, 2023)
• ^[3] Amboseli National Park profile
• ^[4] White Desert Antarctica website