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Five Locations to Travel in Style
Posted under Travel-GeneralWhile the media is full of doom and gloom over the finance crisis it does provide an opportunity for those still earning good money to experience luxury travel at a knock down price. As the rest of the world starts cutting back, it is now possible to book luxury accommodation rentals in some traditionally hard to get locations. If you can still afford it then this year is perfect to enjoy a destination with less crowds and better value. Low on ideas? Here are 5 tried and true luxury destinations:
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia:
More than 10 million people visit the Gold Coast every year, and 90% of them are domestic tourists. The beaches are part of a surfer’s paradise that stretches down the coast, and the high rise luxury hotels don’t detract from the tropical surroundings. Join in the fun, don't let the locals be the only ones to enjoy all this? Try your hand at surfing, pamper yourself silly on the favorable exchange rate, and relax into the famous Aussie hospitality with stylish Gold Coast accommodation such as Q1 holiday apartments.
Turkey’s Turquoise Coast:
You can find the Turquoise Coast where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Aegean. It's often called the Turkish Riviera and it can seem hard to believe that all inclusive luxury can be had for under $100 per night. With the good exchange rates at the moment and close to year long season you can pick up great rates for beachfront accommodation. And the spas . . .you must pamper yourself with a Turkish bath trip after parasailing and snorkeling all day!
Fortaleza, Brazil:
Fortaleza, on the North Coast of Brazil, has been a fiercely guarded local luxury destination for years. Furnished condos are the place to stay, and the best are right on the beach. A whole array of beach activities such as soaking up the sun, learning to surf, sea fishing and more are awaiting. Flights via LAN are finally going direct from Miami starting this year so you don’t have to make the annoying transfer in Rio. You can make the most of fresh facilities as 2008 saw the completion of many refurbishments.
Hainan Island in China:
Known as the Hawaii of China, the Miss Universe contest is held here at the posh Sanya Resort. Private beaches, clear water, and stunningly delicious fresh seafood are just a few of the luxuries to be had here. Traditional Eastern reflexology and indulgent 4-hands massages make it easy to sink into the hammocks next to the reflecting pools in Hainan—just be mindful that you don’t stay forever!
Mayan Riviera, Mexico
Avoid the madness of the spring breakers in Apapulco and head to the Yucatan peninsula. Opulent beachfront gardens, breathtaking scuba and snorkeling, plus all the five-star amenities you’d expect of all-inclusive resorts. Tulum, Akumal, and Playa del Carmen are all home to fine hotels, while the cruise ships put in at Cancun and Cozumel. Try and time your trip to avoid the bulk of the large tour boats and you'll experience an unrushed visit with more dolphin time.