5 Surprising and Affordable Luxury Destinations

What comes to mind when you think of a "luxury holiday?" All-inclusive resorts? Long days at the spa? Flying business or first class from place to place?

Many travelers shy away from anything classified as luxury, thinking that it prevents them from experiencing the best that a country or area has to offer. How can you immerse yourself in local culture when you're holed up in a resort, taking advantage of its swim-up bar?

That and many luxury destinations seem firmly out of reach—not for ordinary, everyday travelers like you and me.

What if you could have the best of both worlds? Would you like to spend all day exploring a country and participating in adventure activities, then come back to your affordable 5-star hotel to rest and recuperate for the next day?

Depending on how you define the term "luxury," some surprising destinations can fall into this category simply because they offer a proliferation of 5-star accommodations.

The best thing is that many of these countries are pretty cheap and definitely within the price range of most travelers. So, if you want to taste the high life, here are five affordable luxury destinations.

Countries

1. Colombia

There aren't many countries in South America that are thought of as luxury destinations. Indeed, many backpackers head there in the first place because of the low travel cost.

Colombia, in particular, is a cheaper country, so much so that cities like Medellin have become popular hubs for digital nomads looking to expand their businesses in areas that don't cost an arm and leg to live in.

If you're traveling around South America and like the idea of staying somewhere a bit fancy rather than roughing it in hostels, Colombia seems like a good choice.

You can spend your days learning salsa, horseback riding, trekking, or paragliding, then sleep it off in your king-size bed. Sounds like a good compromise to me.

2. New Zealand

New Zealand is a country that's synonymous with adventure activities. New Zealand has it all, set within unfathomably beautiful surroundings: hiking, canyoning, bungee-jumping, skiing.

One popular option among travelers is to rent a car or camper van and drive around either the North or South Islands (or, in some cases, both). After spending weeks roughing it in campsites around the country, it would be nice to treat yourself to a bit of luxury in one of the many 5-star hotels.

The best bit is that while on the pricier side, New Zealand is still cheaper than neighboring Australia. So, if you're putting your feet up anywhere in Oceania, New Zealand is a good choice.

3. The Dominican Republic

The Caribbean countries have long been considered ideal luxury destinations due to the number of all-inclusive resorts. If you want a taste of the Caribbean lifestyle without the cost, the Dominican Republic is the place to head to.

You'll be able to live it up in 5-star restaurants without paying the prices typical of other Caribbean destinations, such as Aruba, Grand Cayman, the Bahamas, or the top-of-the-top St. Barts.

While staying in the Dominican Republic, you could explore its UNESCO World Heritage Site capital, Santa Domingo, take a safari, or go diving. The island is a popular place to get married, with cheap packages offered to couples wanting to tie the knot. If you're going to embrace a luxury holiday at any point in your life, it should be for your wedding.

4. Mexico

After journeying around the country and spending time in some of its cooler cities rife with life and adventure, such as the country's somewhat notorious capital, Mexico City, you may want rest or respite in a coastal setting.

How about Tulum? You can stay in a beachside bungalow, watch the sunrise and sunset every day, and check out the nearby Mayan ruins. In Cancun, you'll find everything you'd expect of a Caribbean destination, but for an affordable price. There's a reason why it's so popular with spring breakers.

5. Panama

Central America is another region that, with perhaps the exception of Costa Rica, has a reputation as affordable for budget travelers. Yet Panama is at the top of the luxury list. There are plenty of adventure activities on offer.

Diving, jungle boat tours, or biking the Amador Causeway would be exciting for those who want to explore the country's most rugged aspects.

Those wanting a more laid-back adventure can visit Casco Viejo, Panama City's historic sector, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also ogle Panama Viejo, the ruins of the original capital city, or enjoy the local nightlife.

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This story is brought to you in partnership with Lead Me to Luxury.