lux·u·ry [luhk-shuh-ree] Indulgence in and enjoyment of rich, comfortable and sumptuous living, something that is an indulgence rather than a necessity.

Luxury comes in many forms and in fact, can be different for different people. For some, luxury is synonymous with strictly guarded privacy. Lonely Planet lists the top 10 glamorous A-list destinations that guarantee privacy and luxury, so they tend to be popular with celebrities:

1. Telluride, USA
2. Gstaad, Switzerland
3. Miami, USA
4. St. Barts, Caribbean
5. Wakaya Fiji
6. Goldeneye Resort, Jamaica
7. Sveti Stefan, Montenegro
8. Ibiza, Spain
9. Cote d’Azur, France
10. The Hamptons, USA

Non-celebs can certainly see and be seen in these luxury destinations too, but some people find luxury in an experience, such as a weekend of pampering at a destination spa or a chauffeur driven tour. Others prefer the luxury of place, like an opulent, five-star hotel. There are many fine hotels across the globe, but Virtuoso’s annual Best of the Best publication is the definitive guide to the world’s best hotel experiences.

Luxury incorporates style and comfort, but doesn’t necessarily have to be extravagant. I think of extravagance as excess-beyond-lavish that involves overspending. Value is an important factor for luxury travelers because getting a positive return on the cost of a vacation is important to even the wealthiest travelers. Covington’s membership in the prestigious Virtuoso network provides Virtuoso Value to our clients so they do indeed realize that positive return.

Receiving something beyond your expectations is part of luxury, too. Special complimentary amenities, like wine and fresh flowers in your room or an upgrade to a spacious suite are special touches that Virtuoso members can provide to our Virtuoso guests. Likewise, the pleasure of superb service, above and beyond the necessary, is an unexpected luxury.   

Exclusivity is a highly prized form of luxury that Virtuoso members also deliver. Guests have opportunities to participate in private shore excursions, after-hours museum access or other unique events distinctive to the destination that are simply not available to the masses.  

Luxury means attention to detail. This can come in the form of meticulous workmanship, a sumptuous atmosphere or discerning good taste. Attention to detail by your travel advisor from your pre-trip, through the planning, until you return home is just as important to the success of a luxury trip as the experience during travel.

For still others, time is a luxury, serenity is a luxury or adventure is a luxury. We all have a different “normal” so while there are some universally accepted standards of luxury, our individual ideal luxury is going to be unique. What is your definition of luxury? Let Covington Travel’s luxury vacation advisorshelp you find the perfect vacation that is suited just to your style.