Spending on trips abroad is up 30% in 2023. Stay away from touristy areas; visit places like Ticino, Botswana, or Costa Navarino instead. A picnic on a secluded island, a dinner in a historical castle, and other examples of unique experiences for two.
Americans are spending more money on traveling. Consumer spending on trips abroad and live entertainment rose by 30% in 2023 year-on-year. In February 2024, personal consumption expenses rose by almost $146 billion compared to January. Of that amount, Americans spent $111.8 billion on services, data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis shows.
As a luxury traveler, you might want to spend your vacation off the beaten path. Here are some suggestions.
Best under-the-radar spots for discerning travelers
Also known as Switzerland’s “Little Italy,” Ticino is a quaint, romantic Italian-speaking region. You can visit the well-maintained Parco Ciani, a beautiful park with foundations and statues overlooking Lake Lugano. Don’t miss Ascona, a small lakeside town in the area. You can go on a boat cruise there and enjoy lunch by the promenade situated on Lake Maggiore.
Tourists take a boat trip to the Brissago Islands, of which Grande Island is open to the public. The other island is not. You can visit the botanical garden or have lunch near Villa Emden.
Botswana, Africa
Kenya is the better-known safari destination in Africa, but Botswana is a more suitable option for a higher-end safari. There are a few camps with luxury accommodations there. The Okavango Delta features the Big 5, and it also has a good mix of water and land safaris. Chobe National Park has a high elephant population.
Costa Navarino, Greece
Instead of going to Santorini or another overcrowded Greek island, venture to Costa Navarino, a coastal town famous for its outdoor adventures and world-class golf courses. You can visit Navarino Agora to shop for artisanal goods local designers have made. This outdoor marketplace features an outdoor cinema.
These destinations are also suitable for couples with an age difference. If you’re dating someone older and want to go on vacation together, be sure to consider them. For more ideas, check websites like Secret Escapes and PureWow, which offer curated lists of romantic experiences and destinations.
Another option is luxury travel agencies that specialize in bespoke romantic experiences, such as Audley Travel or Black Tomato.
Examples of unique romantic experiences
- a private picnic on a secluded island, accessible only by boat, complete with gourmet food and wine.
- a guided stargazing session in a remote location, complete with a telescope and an expert astronomer.
- a private dinner in a historical castle, a centuries-old ruin, or another landmark.
- a private tour of a prestigious vineyard with an exclusive wine-tasting session.
- a private yacht for a day or overnight trip, exploring secluded coves, personalized services on board.
- a holistic wellness retreat for couples with spa treatments and healthy cuisine. Wellness tourism spending is expected to increase by 16.6% a year until 2027.
- a luxurious train journey through scenic landscapes, staying in a private cabin, and dining in an elegant dining car.
- a private art class with a local artist, where you and your partner can create a piece of art together.
- a helicopter ride to a remote mountain retreat, where you can enjoy stunning views. Mountain tourism accounts for 9-16% of international tourist arrivals globally.
Final thoughts
Tailor the unique romantic experience to your partner’s interests and preferences, adding thoughtful touches such as their favorite music or food. Private, secluded areas offer a sense of exclusivity and intimacy. You might incorporate unexpected elements to ensure an exciting and memorable experience.
