For billionaires, the Caribbean island of St. Barts is a premier destination.
Image: Instagram
Ever wondered what drives the vacation choices of the seriously wealthy? It's easy to picture the celebrities you see showing off their lives on social media, but try to think beyond them.
I'm focusing on those with truly significant disposable income - the kind of money that eliminates the need to book a business class seat because they own the jet.
They already live a life of luxury, which many would consider a permanent holiday, but how do they choose where to go for a break?
While some coordinate their holidays with major calendar events, others gravitate toward exclusive tropical retreats, luxurious, secluded getaways, or magnificent Mediterranean destinations.
Unlike regular travellers, there are a few key tenets that those in the millionaire and billionaire circles prefer: privacy (staff should be invisible and have to sign NDAs), exclusivity (they don’t wait in queues), and private access when exploring places or dining out.
Here’s where they often escape to, depending on their preference:
St. Barts (Saint Barthélemy), Caribbean
This destination is a preferred choice for billionaires, blending French sophistication with laid-back luxury in a wonderful melting pot.
Expect to find white-sand beaches, gourmet dining experiences, and mega-yachts. When it comes to shopping, price tags are no object.
A popular haunt for high-profile guests, this destination is renowned for its French-inspired cuisine, gourmet dining establishments and vibrant nightlife. Those seeking adventure can also indulge in world-class snorkelling and scuba diving.
The Maldives
Yes, this is on everyone’s bucket list.
However, when it comes to those with deep pockets, the needs are different. As mentioned earlier, the criteria are what set them apart from the rest.
The accommodation choices of the rich speak volumes.
Their preferred stays include One&Only Reethi Rah (a popular choice among celebrities for its massive private villas), Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, or one of the numerous private island reserves.
These choices are characterised by private pools, dedicated staff, personal chefs, and on-call butlers.
They also appreciate the diverse marine life and have access to world-class spas, including overwater treatment rooms.
For the affluent, the exclusivity offered by destinations such as the North Island Lodge in Seychelles is a major attraction.
Image: Pexels
Seychelles
Like the Maldives, Seychelles attracts them with its secluded villas, pristine beaches, and opportunities to reach remote tropical destinations.
Money does open all the right doors. Just saying.
For their stays, these travellers often select from a range of luxurious options.
The exclusive island resorts of the Seychelles include North Island Lodge, a favoured retreat for royalty and celebrities; the extremely secluded Fregate Island Private, which ensures complete privacy; and Six Senses Zil Pasyon on Felicite Island, known for its dramatic granite boulders and villas featuring private infinity pools.
Also among the options are Desroches Island Resort, managed by Four Seasons, and the man-made Eden Island, an exclusive development highly valued for its luxury residential villas and marina, which accommodates private yachts.
For barefoot luxury, the ultra-wealthy seek an escape to Paros, Greece.
Image: Unsplash
Paros and Mykonos, Greece
It’s Greece. Hello. Doesn’t need much arm-twisting, really.
Of course, Mykonos is a drawcard for social butterflies who enjoy the elite party scene.
Private estates are the preferred accommodation in Agios Ioannis, renowned for its spectacular sunsets. Agios Stefanos and Ornos are also highly sought-after locations, largely due to their proximity to the sea.
Top-tier hotels include Santa Marina Resort & Villas (private beach), Cavo Tagoo and Bill & Coo.
Of course, if the vibe sought is more of a low-key one, then Paros is the go-to option.
For luxurious stays, visitors have two main choices. The northern fishing port of Naoussa has transformed into a sought-after destination, featuring luxury hotels and chic villas in adjacent areas like Ampelas.
Alternatively, there is Antiparos, a small nearby island famous for its ultra-private luxury residences and frequented by VIPs, including Tom Hanks.
This spot is often dubbed a "mini-Mykonos" due to its relaxed atmosphere and lack of paparazzi.
The French Riviera (Côte d'Azur)
The name immediately evokes a sense of wealth, sophistication and distinctiveness.
This destination is a primary attraction for high-profile events such as the Monaco Grand Prix and the Cannes Film Festival. It also cultivates a superyacht lifestyle, where private cove access and on-water living are common among owners.
These travellers highly valued the superb quality of private chefs, house managers, and luxury concierge services.
The favoured destinations for accommodation among the ultra-wealthy in this region are listed below:
The travel habits of the ultra-wealthy are largely unknown to the public. They move within tight, exclusive circles - those who need to know, know. For security and privacy, you won't find them geotagging or posting details on social media.
However, rest assured that their travels are an experience far beyond the ordinary, reflecting their privileged existence. Every conceivable desire is met; it is the ultimate, luxurious experience, amplified a hundredfold beyond what most can even imagine.