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Travel Guides

Detailed resources providing information on specific destinations, including attractions, accommodations, local customs, and practical advice.

Discover the Most Expensive Places to Travel in the World

Explore the world's most luxurious and expensive travel destinations, from Dubai and Monaco to Musha Cay in the Bahamas. Uncover the exclusive activities and one-of-a-kind experiences that justify the high costs in these opulent locations. Find out why travel insurance is essential for trips to these high-end destinations and get insights on the hidden charges and expenses to be aware of.

Most Expensive Places to Travel to

 

  • Many of the most expensive places to travel offer luxury, fine dining and exclusive experiences, attracting affluent travelers.

  • High demand, limited supply, and premium services are some of the factors that drive the costs up in these places.

  • Uncover destinations where exclusive activities and one-of-a-kind experiences justify the high costs.
     

The most expensive places to travel are where the lifestyle is so exclusive… luxury is woven into every moment of the journey from arrival to departure. These top destinations aren’t just about the price tag; they’re about privacy and service. Whether it’s dining at Michelin-starred restaurants overlooking the coast of Monaco or exploring remote islands like Musha Cay in the Bahamas, where only a select few are allowed entry, these experiences are for those who want the best life has to offer.

Travelers to these high-end destinations get access to premium amenities, bespoke itineraries, and things money can buy, from chartering private yachts to private helicopter tours over untouched landscapes. Let’s look at some of the most extravagant destinations in the world and what makes them so special.
 

Dubai

Dubai, the glittering city in the UAE, has become one of the most expensive destinations in the world. Famous for its skyscrapers, shopping malls, and 5-star hotels, this city is the ultimate luxury experience. You can stay in 5-star hotels like Burj Al Arab often referred to as the only 7-star hotel in the world where rooms cost thousands of dollars a night.

Beyond luxury hotels, Dubai has world-class dining with Michelin-starred restaurants serving international cuisine to gourmet Middle Eastern dishes. Shopping is another indulgence with massive malls like The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates with luxury brands and exclusive boutiques.

If you want to experience the city, private desert safaris, helicopter tours, and yacht charters add to the cost. The cosmopolitan nature of Dubai means nightlife and entertainment, upscale beach clubs, and exclusive events come with a price tag.

Despite the prices, Dubai still attracts the high-end traveler who wants modern luxury, architecture, and a desert experience.


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Monaco

Monaco’s tax haven status and its tiny size and exclusivity mean it’s always one of the most expensive places in the world. Everything in Monaco is luxury, and everything comes at a price. It’s the ultimate playground for the ultra-rich.

Hotel prices in Monaco also reflect its elite status. Hotels like the Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo and Hotel Hermitage can cost over $1000 a night for a basic room. For a more indulgent experience, high-end suites can cost $40,000 a night during the Monaco Grand Prix.

The Monaco Grand Prix in May is one of the biggest draws. During this time, hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues see a price hike. VIP passes, exclusive terracing, and luxury accommodations can cost thousands of dollars for many visitors.

Fine dining in Monaco is legendary with Michelin-starred restaurants like Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse but meals can cost $300 to $500 per person without drinks. The Monte Carlo Casino , one of the most famous in the world, is the hub of luxury entertainment where fortunes are won and lost.

Monaco’s famous attractions like the Prince’s Palace , Oceanographic Museum and private yacht rentals all come with a price tag. Visitors often spend thousands of dollars on guided tours, exclusive events, and private experiences that showcase the glamour of Monaco.

 

Musha Cay, Bahamas

Musha Cay is one of the most exclusive and luxurious private islands in the world. Part of the Exumas archipelago in the Bahamas, it’s owned by magician David Copperfield and covers 700 acres. It has white sand beaches, turquoise water, and luxury.

A stay at Musha Cay is all-inclusive and costs over $50,000 a night. You don't book a villa here; you rent the entire island, so it’s super private and personal.

These villas can accommodate up to 24 people and have private beaches, a heated pool, a floodlit tennis court, and more. You'll have a full staff at your service, a private chef, personal butlers, and a dedicated activities coordinator. You can do deep sea fishing, snorkeling, jet skiing, and even watch a movie under the stars at an outdoor cinema.

It's no wonder that this island is a favorite for celebrities and high-profile individuals seeking the ultimate in luxury travel.

 

French Polynesia

French Polynesia, in the South Pacific, is famous for its turquoise lagoons, overwater bungalows, volcanic islands, and coral reefs. This tropical haven, which includes Bora Bora, Tahiti, and Moorea, is exclusive and tranquil - but expensive.

A trip to French Polynesia is a luxury, where even the most basic accommodation has an ocean view. The overwater bungalows, which cost several thousand dollars a night, are the ultimate private retreat.

Dining in French Polynesia is another indulgence. Fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and French-inspired cuisine are served in beautiful settings. However, with many ingredients imported, the cost of meals can be high.

Adventure seekers can get into private diving tours, yacht excursions, and helicopter rides over the islands - all adding to the price.

Flights to this far-flung destination are also on the higher end, with limited direct flights from major cities. Once there, transportation costs can add up, especially if you choose private transfers or a luxury yacht. But if you want a romantic, once-in-a-lifetime getaway in one of the most beautiful places on earth, French Polynesia is worth every penny.


Iceland

Iceland is a bucket list destination for many, and for good reason. Its landscapes are breathtaking, waterfalls are majestic, and geothermal wonders are off the charts. But these exquisite offerings also make it one of the most expensive places to travel in the world.

Accommodation in Iceland, especially in popular areas like Reykjavik or near the Blue Lagoon and Golden Circle, can be expensive. Luxury hotels and boutique stays are also premium priced. Eating in Iceland is also expensive; the cost of importing goods is high due to the country being so remote. A simple meal can cost you $20-$30, and fine dining will easily be over $100 per person.

Tours to glaciers, ice caves, geothermal spas, or see the Northern Lights can cost from $100 to $500, depending on the season and location. You'll have to pay extra if you want guided tours to these destinations. Renting a car to drive the Ring Road is a popular option, but fuel in Iceland is one of the highest in Europe, so that adds to the cost of travel, as well.

Despite this, Iceland remains a dream destination for those who want to see natural beauty like nowhere else.

 

Botswana

Botswana, a land of wildness and beauty, is one of the most expensive and exclusive travel destinations in Africa. Known for its high-end eco-lodges and private safaris, Botswana offers more seclusion and personal service than many other safari destinations.

The Okavango Delta, one of the world’s largest inland deltas, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the crown jewel of Botswana’s luxury tourism. Here, you can expect to pay thousands of dollars a night for luxury camps in the middle of nowhere.

These camps often include private game drives, guided walking safaris, and even helicopter tours over the delta so you can get up close and personal with the Big Five (lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos).

Its Chobe National Park is known for having one of the largest concentrations of elephants in Africa. Generally, the dry season from May to October is considered the prime time for safaris, especially for wildlife viewing.

The Makgadikgadi Pans are vast salt flats and are some of the largest in the world, offering an otherworldly landscape. Getting to and around the country is also costly due to limited access and the need for specialized vehicles. Safari's usually employ 4x4s or light aircraft to ferry adventure seekers.

The Botswana government has a “high cost, low impact” tourism policy, so only a select few can experience its natural beauty and so help preserve the environment. This exclusivity comes at a price, but it also means privacy and access to wildlife like nowhere else.

 

Switzerland

Switzerland has always been synonymous with luxury, with breathtaking landscapes, top resorts, and great experiences. In the heart of the Alps, this country offers views of snow-capped mountains, serene lakes, and charming villages, making it to the list of the most expensive places to travel in Europe.

Zurich, Geneva, and Lucerne have the most luxurious hotels in Europe, with 5-star hotels that offer service without equal. Gstaad and St. Moritz attracts the rich with their top ski slopes, designer boutiques, and Michelin-starred restaurants. A night at one of these luxury resorts can cost thousands, especially in winter.

Even train travel, which is the most popular mode of transportation here, can be costly. A one-way ticket from Zurich to Geneva costs around 70 CHF ($75). Prices run high for the Matterhorn cable car ride and the Jungfraujoch train too. But if you plan to travel a lot, getting a Swiss Travel Pass can make it easier.

For the indulgent, Switzerland offers experiences like private helicopter tours over the Swiss Alps, luxury train journeys like the Glacier Express, and personal chef experiences. Exclusive spa retreats where treatments are done in alpine surroundings add to the opulence of the trip.

Eating in Switzerland can also be a luxury. The country has many Michelin-starred restaurants where a meal can cost hundreds. Even sampling Swiss specialties like Raclette or Fondue in high-end restaurants can be pricey but totally worth it.

 

Park City, Utah

In the Wasatch Range of Utah, Park City is famous for its world-class ski resorts and luxury travel. Home to the Sundance Film Festival, this mountain town has gone from a humble mining town to a playground for the rich.

Winter brings great skiing and snowboarding at two of the resorts, Deer Valley and Park City Mountain . Deer Valley is particularly fancy, with luxurious lodges, fine dining, and service so good it’s a favorite among high-end travelers.

Beyond winter sports, Park City has year-round activities like hot air balloon rides, fly fishing, and private guided nature tours. For those looking to relax, the area has exclusive spa resorts with 5-star treatments.

The town itself has high-end boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants for those who want a mix of adventure and indulgence. Accommodation prices can get very high; many visitors choose luxury hotels, private mountain homes, or even rent entire estates.

 

Is Travel Insurance Essential for Expensive Destinations?

When visiting some of the world’s most expensive destinations, travel insurance isn’t just a precaution but should be an important part of the planning process. These high-end trips often involve luxury accommodations, private tours, and premium services that come with non-refundable deposits.

In destinations like French Polynesia or Botswana, where medical care can be remote and evacuation might be necessary, travel insurance can cover medical evacuations , which can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Additionally, these luxury trips often involve activities like helicopter rides, private safaris, or yacht charters, all of which have strict cancellation policies. If an emergency prevents you from enjoying these experiences, travel insurance can reimburse you for the loss.

If your designer luggage or valuable items go missing, baggage loss or theft coverage can help cover the costs of replacement, which is especially important in places where everything, from clothing to electronics, can be more expensive.

Furthermore, if you are traveling to expensive or remote places during peak seasons, such as during the Monaco Grand Prix or high-demand periods in Park City, Utah, travel insurance ensures that you are protected from last-minute disruptions, such as flight cancellations or weather-related delays. Many policies also cover trip interruptions , so if you need to return home early due to an emergency, you won’t be left paying for the remainder of your booking.

FAQs

1. What makes certain travel destinations more expensive than others?

Some places are more expensive due to high demand, limited availability, and luxury amenities. Costs can also be driven up by the overall high cost of living at that destination.

2. What should I do if I need to cancel a trip to an expensive destination?

If you need to cancel a trip, review the cancellation policies of your booked hotel, airline, and any other prepaid services. Many destinations have strict cancellation policies, especially during peak seasons. Consider travel insurance to get coverage in case you need to cancel for a covered reason.

3. Can I work with a luxury travel advisor to plan my trip, and what benefits do they offer?

You can trust luxury travel advisors to handle all the logistics. They usually have insider knowledge and can help secure exclusive deals or experiences that you might not find on your own.

4. What is the most expensive part of traveling?

The cost of accommodation can be the most expensive bit of your travel if you are staying in luxury hotels or resorts. This keeps adding if you extend your stay.

5. Are there any hidden charges or expenses to be aware of?

Taxes, baggage fees, and miscellaneous charges for amenities often go unaccounted for when preparing the initial budget. Always read the fine print and ask about potential extra costs when booking. Also, tips and transportation expenses should be factored in.

Also Read: luxury Hotels, Exotic Travel

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What isTrip Cancellation Protection

Trip Cancellation Protection Explained 

Trip Cancellation Protection is a type of travel insurance add-on that offers some reimbursement options should you have to cancel your trip before you leave. Coverage extends to a few scenarios but generally reimburses you for pre-paid, non-refundable expenses (such as airfare, hotels, or transportation deposits) if you have to cancel suddenly. 

Trip Cancellation vs. Travel Insurance 

"Trip Cancellation Protection" refers to a specific form of travel insurance designed to provide partial reimbursement to travelers in the event they need to cancel their trip due to an unforeseen circumstance prior to departure. This is different from travel insurance, which offers some protection against financial losses during your trip.  

  • For example, You’re heading from Portland to Atlanta for the weekend, but a sudden, unnamed storm erupts, and all flights are grounded for 4 days—you can’t make it, and there was nothing you could control or prevent it. This is a case where, with Trip Cancellation Protection, you could be eligible for partial reimbursement because you had to cancel your trip beforehand due to uncontrolled circumstances. 
  • Okay, but what about You’re 5 days into your 2-week trip across Europe, but you lose your luggage on a connecting flight from Paris to Berlin? Travel insurance could help cover reimbursement for the lost or stolen luggage, because you are still traveling.  You didn’t cancel your trip altogether, instead: you suffered a financial loss during your trip. 

What does Trip Cancellation Cover? 

Trip Cancellation Protection is usually sold as a separate add-on that helps cover some reimbursement to travelers who must cancel their trip for unpredicted reasons before they leave. AXA travel insurance provides Trip Cancellation Protection to Silver, Gold, and Platinum protection plans.  

Trip Cancellation Protection helps to provide you with partial reimbursement for your pre-paid, non-refundable deposits (such as airfare, lodging, and transportation) if you must cancel at the minute for reasons such as:  

  • Health-related emergencies 
  • Family or companion emergency health 
  • Unnamed natural disasters 
  • Military duty 

Let’s explore what these benefits mean in detail: 

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Trip Cancellation Protection Benefits 

Trip cancellation is part of AXA’s travel insurance that can reimburse you up to 100% of your nonrefundable, prepaid deposit costs if you cancel for any of these covered reasons: 

Health-Related Cancellations:   

If you or a family member/traveling companion experience sickness or injury, documented by a doctor. The physician must approve of this medical restriction before your departure date. 

  • Injury or illness to you 
  • Injury or illness to your traveling companion/family member  
  • If the host at your destination passes away or is hospitalized within 30 days of your trip’s date 

Employment-Related Cancellations:  

  • If you are laid off or terminated before your trip 
  • Employment transfers: If your job requires you to transfer 250+ miles and you must relocate, cancellation coverage applies 

Military Duty 

  • If a previously-approved military leave is revoked or is reassigned, coverage is applied.  
  • Coverage excludes incidents related to war. 

Natural Disasters and Weather 

Unforeseen weather conditions (usually best understood as “unnamed storms” that popped up unexpectedly) that cause your flights or transportation to be shut down for at least 48 hours prior to departure.   

Terrorism 

A terrorist incident occurring in your departure city or a city listed on your trip itinerary within 30 days before your scheduled departure date can qualify for coverage. There are some additional restrictions tied to this, so be sure you speak with your customer service agent about specific clauses in your coverage. 

Assault and Other Incidents 

If you or your traveling companion are victims of felonious assault, experience hijacking, quarantine, jury duty, or subpoena, or if your home becomes uninhabitable due to a natural disaster or burglary within ten days before your departure-- this coverage can apply.  

Traffic Accident 

A direct involvement in a traffic accident enroute to departure, substantiated by a police report provided to AXA, can be a valid reason for trip cancellation coverage claim.  

Travel Supplier Default 

Should your travel supplier file for bankruptcy and end up affecting your trip, TCP offers supplier default coverage.  

Common Carrier Strike 

In the event of a strike by the common carrier with whom you or your traveling companion are scheduled to travel, resulting in complete cessation of services for at least forty-eight (48) consecutive hours, this coverage can help.  

Exclusive to Platinum Policy Holders  

Platinum policyholders get these additional business-related coverage extensions:  

Business Disruption 

If your destination becomes unsuitable for business due to fire, flood, burglary, vandalism, or other natural disasters, this coverage is here for support.  

Required Work 

 If you or your traveling companion are required to work during the trip (substantiated by a notarized statement from an officer of the employer), this benefit offers coverage.* 

*Coverage does not apply to independent contractors, temporary employees, self-employed individuals, or company owners or partners.  

Company Events 

If your company is involved in a merger, acquisition, government-required product recall, bankruptcy or default proceedings, and you are an active employee directly involved in said event, you are eligible for coverage.  

What Does Trip Cancellation Not Cover? 

Specific coverage will vary from plan to plan, but in general, trip cancellation protection does not apply if you have to cancel for reasons related to: 

  • Alcohol or substance abuse 
  • Committing a felony  
  • Elective surgical procedures (including dental treatment) 
  • Injury from a risky activity (such as skydiving or bungee jumping) 
  • Mental health disorders 
  • Pregnancy and pregnancy-related medical issues 
  • Self-harm 
  • War 

Do I Need Trip Cancellation Protection? 

Whether you need TCP depends on your circumstances and needs. If you: 

  • Travel often 
  • Are traveling during or to a place with unpredictable weather 
  • Have family members with at-risk health conditions 
  • Are medically at-risk  
  • Are traveling internationally  
  • Are taking a cruise 
  • Have spent a lot on prepaid, non-refundable expenses  
  • Are traveling to a remote area 

…Then you may want to consider opting in for Trip Cancellation Protection. TCP offers an extra protection for your prepaid expenses. AXA offers TCP as an option with all of our travel insurance plans.  

TCP is not required; instead, it is a personal decision that should be based on the traveler's specific needs and circumstances. It's a good idea to consider Trip Cancellation coverage, especially if your trip took quite a bit of time and resources to plan. 

 
Get a free quote today to see if Trip Cancellation Protection is the right option for you. 

What Types of Vacations Does Trip Cancellation Apply To? 

Trip Cancellation Protection is an optional add-on for any vacation, domestic or international. Whether you are going on a cruise, tour destination, flight, or international travel, Trip Cancellation coverage can apply to you. 

 When Do I Get Trip Cancellation Protection? 

The short answer: as soon as possible. In general, it’s recommended that you buy coverage at least 3 weeks (21 days) before your trip, or right after your first trip-related deposit (airfare or hotel deposits). Once you have that flight ticket assigned, it is the best time to buy travel insurance and TCP. 

The next-best time to buy it is no later than about 2 weeks (15 days) before your departure date. You can continue to buy travel insurance between the 14-1-day markers, but prices and benefits will change. The sooner you buy it, the sooner you are protected with greater eligibility benefits.  

You can buy TCP any time before the date of your trip. If you are already on your trip and have questions, it’s best to speak to an agent about your coverage options. 

Note that you can’t usually buy coverage more than 12 months in advance, so there is such a thing as planning too far ahead. 

When Does Trip Cancellation Coverage Begin? 

Trip Cancellation Coverage begins when a specific travel package has been selected and after you pay for your plan premium.  

When Does Trip Cancellation Coverage End? 

Trip Cancellation Coverage ends if/when any of the following occurs: 

  • When you depart for your trip on the scheduled departure time on the scheduled departure date, or 
  • The date and time you cancel your trip, or two (2) days prior to the scheduled departure time on the scheduled departure date of your trip. 

How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost? 

The cost of Trip Cancellation Protection is based on a few factors, including: 

  • Total cost of your trip 
  • Your age 
  • Your destination 
  • Length of trip 
  • Insurance company 

In general, a travel insurance policy with trip cancellation coverage costs between 5-10% of your total trip cost. This means that if you’re taking a $3,000 cruise to Florida, you can expect to pay between $150 and $300 for trip cancellation coverage. For more specific information, learn about our travel protection plans or speak with an agent today. 

How Does Travel Insurance Work? 

Once you’ve paid your trip cancellation premium, your coverage begins. If a covered incident occurs and you need to cancel, contact us to file a claim. Make sure you have your supporting documents so that you can be eligible for reimbursement. AXA makes contacting us easy with 24/7 assistance. 

 
Why Choose AXA Travel Protection? 

 AXA is a leading provider in travel assistance plans. You can find us in over 30 countries worldwide, so we’re sure to be able to serve you on even your most creative getaway. 

Other reasons to choose AXA Travel Protection: 

  • Extensive knowledge of local health risks and medical facilities to respond swiftly in the event of a medical emergency 
  • 24/7 global team of travel support  
  • Competitive rates and coverage options to protect a range of travel needs 
  • Rated Excellent (A+) by the Better Business Bureau for travel insurance 

How to get a Travel Protection Quote 

Receive a free quote within minutes 
Or call us at 855-327-1441 to speak with our licensed Travel Insurance Advisors. 
Monday-Saturday, 8 AM-7 PM Central Time 

Disclaimer: It is important to note that the specifics of trip cancellation will depend on the date of purchase and state of residency. Customers are advised to carefully review the terms and conditions of their policy and to contact AXA Assistance USA, Inc. with any questions or concerns they may have. 

Still Have Questions? 

Compare plans and pricing here. Still need more information? Call us Monday-Saturday 8am-7pm CST to speak with a licensed travel agent today! 

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