Enthusiastic travelers hoping to see the world can always find ways to visit popular destinations on a budget. Indeed, for some of us, half the fun is seeing just how much can be done with relatively little expense. At the same time, there remains some curiosity about what it might be like to experience travel like the rich and famous. When we see photos of Leonardo DiCaprio partying on a yacht, or hear about musicians flocking to Ibiza, it’s only natural to wonder: what exactly do these people actually get up to when they travel?
To some extent, we’ll never really know. And it’s also important to remember that one celebrity’s travel plans don’t necessarily mimic those of the rich and famous in general. For instance, we know that George Clooney’s preferred getaway is to a quiet lakeside home in Italy, as opposed to an extravagant resort or party island. But generally speaking, we can do a pretty good job of lining up popular destinations and attractions for the rich and famous.
Where They Go
Again, it’s not as if every celebrity and wealthy individual flocks to the same destination year in and year out. But because such people tend to vacation with a different level of luxury, there are certainly a few places that have risen to the top of the rich and famous travel list due to their ability to accommodate high-end taste. The Richest, a sort of entertainment and lifestyle site covering star culture, compiled a list of 10 vacation playgrounds for the elites, and really this is as good a compilation as any on this topic. Aspen, Ibiza, Dubai, Monaco, and Las Vegas may all stand out as familiar rich and famous destinations though other places like St. Barts and The Maldives exemplify the more remote and secluded option some might consider. Really, there is no one sensible answer to “where they go.” There are tropical beach retreats, vibrant cities, and unique getaways so extravagant you almost can’t get there if you’re not rich or famous!
Where They Stay
Where the rich and famous stay on vacation depends, of course, upon which destination they choose. Ultimately the answer to this question would be a luxurious blend of owned vacation homes, rented villas, and high-end resorts dotted all over the world. But just to name a few, I’ll turn to another list of billionaire vacation playgrounds compiled by trusted traveler resource the Travel Channel. There we see mention of a few particular getaways for the rich and famous that go beyond high-end hotel chains. For instance, Richard Branson’s private Necker Island resort in the British Virgin Islands is mentioned as a place where folks as famous as Oprah have ventured. Cheval Blanc is highlighted as a high-roller ski trip destination in the Alps. And there’s even talk of a “super yacht” called Nirvana, which is actually only one of several renowned celebrity yachts catering to ultra-exclusive vacations on the high seas. In short, the rich and famous don’t just populate five-star hotels; they get creative with even more impressive accommodations.
Where They Eat
The truth is that most of the accommodations in line with those mentioned above tend to have incredible dining options to suit their high-end clientele. And even if a specific venue isn’t equipped with fine dining, most destinations for the rich and famous will have a few excellent restaurants, perhaps with Michelin stars to their credit or famous chefs running the kitchens. But aside from these restaurants, there are a few particular places around the world with food and drink so expensive that it’s really only meant for the wealthy on vacation!
Known for its Irish lottery options, Lottoland has taken some time to point out numerous attractions and activities for wealthy individuals (such as those who might win a lottery). And in doing so, they recently pointed to the world’s most expensive food and drink. Some of the inclusions are simply stunning: a £518 edible golden leaf in Las Vegas; a £1,275 beer in Perth; and even a ludicrous £24,115 dessert at a restaurant in England’s Lake District. Items like these make for vacation attractions in and of themselves, and it’s safe to say only the most extravagant high-end travelers are interested in them.
How They Get There
Plenty of celebrities and other wealthy individuals are surely content with flying first class when heading out on vacation, but we also know that there are those among the world’s elites who demand a little bit more in their travel arrangements. This was addressed in a Wall Street Journal article citing comments from an upscale travel agent who deals with celebrity clients. Within the article, it’s mentioned that some of these clients charter 747s for personal travel and some fly their own private jets. And there are others who take ordinary flights but are then met by private cars on the runway. Or they’re whisked away to private lounges in airports by employees on golf carts.
That about covers the general style of travel for the rich and famous. As for what they do once they’re at their destinations, that part is for them to know and us to dream of!