A brand new year means more chances to travel! If you're a USA resident, you might have fallen into the trap of thinking of 'real travel' as trips out of the country. Don't forget that America is a very, very big place that holds a multitude of widely varied destinations, cultures, and experiences that you may never have encountered before. Choose to stay in the US and travel around your own country this year instead of heading overseas, and make it a luxury experience while you are at it. We've got the ultimate US luxury travel itinerary for you to work with this year, so let's explore it.
Luxury Travel Advice
Luxury travel in the US isn't difficult to plan, thanks to the incredible range of luxury services, travel options, and destinations available in most states. There are a few key things that you're going to want to plan ahead for and make a financial investment in that will take your travel experience from pretty cool to absolutely unparalleled.
- Travel by private aircraft. If you book a luxury plane charter, it'll make your experience a lot more comfortable and simple in terms of working out your own itinerary. No check-in queues, no lost baggage, and delicious in-flight food options? Count us in!
- Book your experiences and excursions well in advance. This may give you access to discounted luxury locations and events that won't exist for last-minute bookings.
- Follow travel vloggers and bloggers. Start a folder on your YouTube or Instagram and save their videos that talk about 'hidden gems'. Often, these locations get fewer visitors, making them less crowded and more enjoyable. These creators are a great source of ideas about destinations that you might never have known existed.
Luxury USA Travel Itinerary
Alaska
Explore the wild, frozen beauty of the largest state in the US. Luxury travel in Alaska has boomed as many luxury travelers have moved towards nature destinations that still offer the best amenities and experiences.
Camp Denali. Located in Denali National Park, undisputedly one of the most exquisite locations in the state, Camp Denali is a way to get away from it all but still have all the comforts of high-class accommodation. The lodge itself—a classic, cozy log cabin-style experience—was built in 1952 and operates around principles of understanding, exploring, and honoring the nature and cultural heritage of the area. The flight into the area provides incredible views and there are activities at the camp to enjoy, too. There are guided hikes into the tundra and self-guided activities like foraging, fishing, or just relaxing in the outdoors. Nature lovers can even take wildlife classes.
Tutka Bay Lodge. Situated on 35 acres of the pristine Alaskan wilderness, Tutka Bay offers guests exquisite private coves along the coast, meandering trails through verdant woods, and beautifully appointed, private guest cabins to relax in. You'll arrive, sign in, and explore your options at the main lodge. You can also enjoy appetizers here or take part in group activities like yoga or cooking classes featuring local ingredients. This is an intimate lodge, but don't let the size fool you. There's kayaking, tide pooling, hot tubs, and more to experience at this beautiful location.
Alexander Valley, California
Your next destination is a little less about physical exertion and a little more about wine tasting and good old-fashioned relaxation. This Sonoma gem is a haven for those who love boutique luxury and excellent wines, enjoyed together or separately.
Solage, an Auberge Resort and Spa. This is an escape from the grind that will leave you feeling physically and mentally detoxed and rejuvenated. A stay at Solage in Napa Valley offers up minimally designed suites and studios, depending on your needs and preferences. Whether you choose to stay in winter or summer, there's a whole host of experiences both on and off the property. An enormous pool, a deck with comfy chairs circling fire pits, rides through the vineyards, treatments in the bathhouse and spa, wine tastings, Napa Valley restaurant experiences…the sky's the limit.
Single Thread Farm. Nestled in Dry Creek Valley, this working farm brings biodiversity to the area and its guests. Choose from a sprawling master suite or guest rooms designed with every comfort and convenience possible. The food is a standout part of a stay here, with many on-site options that could rival the best restaurants in the state. There are farm-based experiences, drive experiences with Audi (from the redwood forests to the farm itself), and a wide range of wine-tasting options as well. The farm hosts workshops, from floral arranging to agriculture, on-site.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Your last destination takes you back to the city, this time in raucous, exciting, and historical New Orleans. This is a place for those who love good food, beautiful architecture, a good party, and a wealth of culture all in one beautiful spot.
Maison De La Luz. The unusual beauty of this kaleidoscopic hotel comes largely from its eclectic, layered decor. Plush furnishings repose wherever you look, lush and textured fabrics adorning their forms. It's an intimate location and flamboyant in a way that only New Orleans really understands. The bohemian nature of the city is distilled and nurtured here in exquisite comfort. Indulge in a heavenly a la carte breakfast or cocktails in the real gem of the hotel—the secret library that has a private salon for guests. Take yourself off to Royal Street and indulge in a little luxury retail therapy that you won't soon forget or down to the French Quarter for a culinary explosion of tastes.
The W New Orleans. Large-scale luxury can be found at this hotel in the French Quarter. The “standard king” guest rooms, also known as Wonderful Rooms, are tarot-themed in line with the city's mystic heritage and replete with every home comfort and wonderful views. The SouBou bar and restaurant celebrates the Cajun and Creole influences of the city and provides a whimsical place to kick back with wonderful service. The hotel and its grounds are so stunning that you won't really feel the urge to leave, but you won't be disappointed in what the French Quarter has to offer if you do. Take a walk or guided tour around the stunning historical neighborhood, or take a steamboat cruise or a pub crawl after dark.
Honorable Mention Destinations
- Hotel South Beach, Mima, Florida
- Halekulani Hotel, Waikiki, Hawaii
- Sonnenalp Vail, Vail
- Santa Barbara Inn, Santa Barbara, California
Your Luxury Trip Awaits
Between our three main destinations and the four honorable mentions, you're about to have the best luxury travel experience possible in the USA. Our itinerary is one you can build on, so have fun and treat yourself.
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