Yes! My Top 10 Luxury Retreats

Summer is in full swing (and if not in your neck of the woods it will be soon) which means time for vacations! I was sitting here wondering what all I needed to get done before our trip. You know making a list of all the things to pack, get the mail stopped, and other boring tasks. All of the things that I would love to throw out the window and spend time alone in any number of french riviera mansions. Come on you know you want to do the same!

Last we went to the beach and while I did get a week away from the family it would be nice to take some indulgent trip all on my own. I even have a list of my favorite top ten luxury retreats that I would almost be willing to sell a kidney for (just kidding!) Just think about it for a moment. A trip just for you alone or maybe you and your someone special. There are so many places that I would love to go and I add to that list every day for now let’s jump right to my list.

1.Tuscany

Who would not love to go to Tuscany! I will admit that Tuscany made my list after watching Under the Tuscan Sun which was based on the book by Frances Mayes. I can see myself spending the whole summer in a beautiful Tuscan villa and taking long slow walks. Maybe enjoy breakfast as the sun is coming up or watch as it sets. I wouldn’t do much more than spend time in and around the villa writing, reading, and just reconnecting with myself.  Of course enjoying all of the food that Tuscany has to offer won’t hurt a thing. Y’all know me, I love to eat and I can just see myself indulging.

2. Scotland Highlands

Okay this is something I really want to do. I would love to rent a castle for the entire summer and spend it in the beautiful Highlands of Scotland. Why you ask? My typical answer is “Because I’m a princess.” but in truth it is because I want to experience the culture of it. I admit that an old castle may not seem like the lap of luxury but you may be surprised. There are more than few to rent and they are as luxurious as they come. There are plenty of free things to do in Scotland such as visit the Isle of Skye and Loch Ness. In fact, US News has a list of eleven things to do and many are free.

3. Goa

Goa is located in western India. If you haven’t heard of it you aren’t alone. I had a friend actually tell me about this place and from that day I have been intrigued.  You can visit Dudhsagar Falls which is a 600 meter waterfall. Now if you are like me and live in a country that doesn’t use the metric system that is like 1968 feet. I had to look it up too! Want something a little more exotic and local? Check out a spice plantation.

4. Greece

Greece is a beautiful place to visit. There are hot springs, beautiful villages, seafood, and some of the most beautiful beaches. Depending on the time of year that you visit you can ski the mountains or during the summer lounge on a beach. If you are a mythology and history buff then Greece is for you. From the Parthenon to Acropolis you will find something to keep you enthralled every day of your trip. I would go for the history of course because I would love to see the Oracle of Delphi. However I really want to see the volcanic rocks of Lemnos. They give the landscape an alien look and feel.

5. Mardan Hotel, Turkey

This is one of the most expensive hotels in the world. I read about it in a Reader’s Digest article and let me tell you I need to visit it. This fabulous hotel has 24/7 personal butler service. Let’s face it every one needs butler service at least once in their lives. Not to mention that the sand on the beach was flown in from Egypt. I want to go for the beach alone.

 

6. The Orient Express

The Orient Express isn’t a place but a train that many of the rich and famous have traveled on. It is creme de la creme when it comes to travel and style. Put into service in 1883 this train knows how to treat it’s passengers. You must dress for dinner and lunch is casual however, jeans are never acceptable. There are porters to cater to all of you needs so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy. Oh and if you happen to see Hercule Poirot, get his autograph for me!

7. Maldives

Maldives is a tropical nation in the Indian Ocean. If you are looking for an island vacation then this is for you. You can relax in an over the water bungalow. It sounds scary but the water is crystal clear and you can see to the bottom where the bungalows are located. You can go whale shark watching as well as other diving. Not mention island hopping to see all the little shops each of the islands offer.

8. Switzerland

Who wouldn’t want to head to Switzerland and ski the mountains. Did you know there is so much more that you can do there? In Zurich you can grab a pedalo and check out the lake. If you are feeling adventurous you can trek with llamas or bungee jump from Contra Dam. My dream vacation would be to whole up in a chalet and soak in the snow. This is the one place that I want to visit in the winter.

9. New Zealand

New Zealand is the place where Frodo and Bilbo Baggins came to life int he movies. In fact you can travel to Middle Earth there if that is your thing. I admit that I would like to do this along with my  bestie. After all one of us has to be Bilbo while the is Sam-Wise. If hobbits, elves, and orcs leave a bitter taste in your mouth there is still plenty to do. You can check out glow worms while on a boat ride or even play a round of golf. There is something for everyone in New Zealand.

10. Monte Carlo

Monte Carlo is the epitome of a luxury retreat! I admit that other than what I saw in movies I didn’t know much about Monte Carlo. While there you can visit the Prince’s Palace, check out the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco, and of course play in the casino. For something a little history check out the Napoleon Museum.

Now you have ten inspiring places to visit and look for your next vacation. Whether you are planning a vacation for yourself or your family taking the do a little research on the place as well as the costs of travel is always my number tip. So we did we decide to go this year? You will have to just wait and see.