Travelling in style

November 29, 2019
Jess

Regardless of the purpose behind the trip, many of us are guilty in demanding the highest level of luxury. Whether it be the transfer from the airport to the hotel, or the upgrade to the king-size suite, enhanced comfort and relaxation goes along way in ensuring our happiness. Here, we run through exactly what it means to travel in luxury, while also assessing some of the budget options which can be taken advantage off as well.

Airport

The holiday starts here — airports are full of perks. Benefits of the airport lounge include complimentary snacks and drinks to make the most of. As most of us spend time in eating establishments and watering holes anyway to kill time before our flight, why wouldn’t you want to do so in added comfort? Many are child-friendly too, providing gaming consoles to keep the little ones calm during the waiting period.

Whether you’re going away on business, or jet-setting with family and friends, relaxing is key before you board the plane. Airport lounges are perfect for this; don’t be fooled into thinking you must be in possession of a first-class ticket to enter. Simply book online and take advantage of the spacious and secluded environment for up to three hours* before your flight.

Airport lounges provide a tranquil environment for anyone travelling on business, as you can spend time carrying out work tasks. With plenty of space to knuckle down, it’s ideal for those with hectic schedules.

Hotels

A particular level of luxurious service is key to gaining certain clientele, and with a range of services, hoteliers have this market well tapped. From private airport transfers to swim-up pool bars, all-inclusive option to complimentary snacks, they really do have it all. However, this isn’t for everyone and hotel companies know this. The star ratings are something hotel owners take pride in and being labelled a five-star resort can stand you head and shoulders above your competition.

If you choose to take a tour of Australia or Asia,you’ll find an array of hostels to keep costs to a minimum. Like the budget flights previously mentioned, there are plenty hotels, B&Bs, and apartments available across the globe that will suit any budget.

The Hilton hotel chain is one of the world’s most popular and it’s well known for its added comforts and luxurious surroundings — so much so it’s often voted the best hotel brand in the world.  From its 25 Waldorf Astoria properties around the globe which offer world-class service and signature accoutrements that define luxury, to its more affordable Homewood Suits that are ideal for longer stays, the brand has thought of it all.

Trivago, the online travel company, insists that inside your room you must offer plush pillows, soft and oversized bath towels, complimentary refreshments, full-size toiletries, and a special welcome touch to help your guests feel ‘special’ in a luxury stay.  Outside of your sleeping zone, late checkout, poolside service, gourmet foods, spa rooms, and private cabanas all top the list of must-have gimmicks to make a stay even more luxurious.

Flight

A flight on Singapore Airlines can cost up to £9,500 one-way, a recent Channel 4 documentary has found. For the price, you get your own private suite, with a bedroom, leather chair, wardrobe, ensuite bathroom, and 32-inch TV, all at your beck and call.

Don’t panic however, if you don’t have pockets lined with sterling. For those who can’t stump up thousands of pounds for a flight, the company does offer a range of considerably cheaper routes from the UK to Asia.

EasyJet and Ryan Air are two of the budget alternatives

Coach

Luxury coach companies offer vehicles in a variety of sizes, from 16-seaters upwards, you have the option of having on-board kitchen space — including the all-important filter coffee machine— and sumptuous armchair-style seats, so you really can relax as you take to the road.

The Mega Bus is on example of budget travel that is often utilised by students looking for cheap travels out of term time to return home at an affordable rate. The no-frills travel is perfect for getting from A to B, but for a holiday experience that offers a little bit more luxury, there are companies that can sort you right out. Many may think of the affable Brendan from television’s Coach Trip, or the budget-friendly National Holidays, but there are many options to travel in extreme style.

Train

Described as the ‘marque of luxury’, a journey on the Northern Belle will see you travel a completely different experience than you could ever imagine. While you may in some instances need to stand up for your train journey, booking a seat first class can see you enjoy a complimentary meal service.  The train holiday may be better known for interrailing around Europe on your gap year as a student, but with Planet Rail you can experience a luxury journey throughout Europe, including UK breaks.

Car

Available as a standard saloon or sporty ‘S’ model, the Audi A8 is one example of the outstanding German engineering the brand has become synonymous for, with its innovative design and sophisticated technology. With features to assist you as the driver, the model allows you to have a safer and simpler drive. With the likes of park assist providing surrounding and edge detection and cross traffic assist rear bringing visual support, you really can sit back and enjoy the ride.

In a car getting up to stretch your legs every five minutes isn’t a possibility, otherwise it’ll be a long journey. So, you must make sure you pick a car that you’d be happy to sit in for a long period of time. There are many ‘luxury’ car manufacturers out there to consider, but with a literal translation of its slogan being ‘advantage through technology’ Audi is a great choice for anyone looking for that extra bit of comfort.

Although some of the luxury travel options we have noted may be slightly out of the price range, various deals are available online, so have a look and find something to treat yourself!