Tips for Planning a Luxury Vacation

Crafting your ideal getaway starts by mapping out where you’d like to go.

Maybe you’d like to disconnect from it all and enjoy a stay in one of the world’s best resorts, dipping your toes into the warm waters of the gulf as you relax on a white sands beach. Or perhaps you’d like an immersive expedition exploring ancient ruins or visiting lost cities, something that takes you off the beaten trail, where you can engage all your senses and experience your own version of what it means to truly get away from it all.

Whether you’d like to unearth a hidden treasure somewhere new or visit a tried-and-true vacation spot closer to home, let your interests guide your decision. Take inspiration from travel websites or research the top destinations for your interest to find a destination that matches your expectations, one that offers everything that you need for a truly enjoyable trip.

Whether your idea of a good time involves relaxing in the spa at an all-inclusive resort or watching the sunrise from a secluded bungalow, consider the amenities you can’t do without—perhaps great room service or excellent restaurants. Some travelers prefer resorts with built-in excursions and events, while others would rather forge their own path. No matter where your journey takes you, welcoming and attentive staff or a personal concierge could help to provide you with everything you need. 

Once you know what form your adventures will take, it’s time to think about booking. Working with a travel agency or advisor to manage all your flights, hotels, and on-the-ground travel can simplify your travel planning, especially if you plan to visit multiple destinations. If your journey is straightforward, you could book yourself directly or through a travel portal. Booking directly with hotels, airlines, or through your credit card’s travel portal may come with benefits.

For example, with the Hilton Honors Aspire Card you can earn 14X Hilton Honors Bonus Points (that’s 14 points per dollar) on purchases made directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio. You can also earn 7X Points on flights booked directly with airlines or AmexTravel.com using your Card. You can then redeem your points on future travel. Just think, the points that you’re earning when booking your current trip could turn into the points you use to book your mid-winter getaway to Koh Samui, Thailand. And as another perk, Card Members can receive up to $200 back per year on eligible flight purchases booked directly with airlines or through AmexTravel.com, helping you make travel even more rewarding.

You’ll also want to consider comfort during your flights as well. When booking your flights, consider opting for first class or business class, especially for longer duration flights. Travel in comfort and arrive at your destination refreshed and ready to go.

Your vacation starts the moment you step into the airport. Any steps you could take to make your travels smoother will mean a better and more enjoyable trip. For example, with the Hilton Honors Aspire Card, you can earn up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year on a CLEAR^® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal). CLEAR uses unique attributes, such as eyes or fingerprints, to digitally verify identity to help its Members move faster through security at select airports nationwide, helping you get through airport security when every second counts.