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This Is the Most Expensive Vacation for U.S. Travelers in 2025a"and No, It's Not Antarctica

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, August 26th 2025 at 10:33 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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The Top 10 Most Expensive Vacation Spots for Americans – A Quick Guide

When most of us picture an “expensive vacation,” we think of swanky resorts, private villas, or the cost‑heavy “once‑in‑a‑lifetime” experiences that only a select few can afford. Travel + Leisure’s recent deep‑dive into the most costly getaway options for U.S. travelers paints a detailed picture of where money really goes when you’re chasing that luxury. Below is a concise, yet comprehensive, rundown of the ten destinations that topped the list, what makes each one pricey, and a few insider tips that could help you squeeze a bit more out of your wallet.

1. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Average Cost: $12,000–$15,000 per person for a 7‑day trip

Bora Bora consistently tops the “most expensive” charts because of its isolation and the sheer extravagance of its accommodation options. The tiny atoll boasts a handful of overwater bungalows that command premium rates—often featuring private plunge pools, personal butlers, and 24‑hour concierge service.

• Flights & Transfers: A transpacific flight from the U.S. can cost $4,000–$6,000 round‑trip, and the island’s single airport requires a helicopter or speed‑boat transfer from Tahiti.
• Resorts: Four Seasons and St. Regis offer suites that include a private beach cove and a daily champagne service.
• Dining & Activities: Fresh seafood is a must‑try, but expect a per‑plate price tag that can easily run $50–$70. Water‑sports packages and sunset cruises also add to the cost.

Travel + Leisure links to a full Bora Bora travel guide (link) that includes a breakdown of the best times to visit and how to negotiate package deals.

2. Maldives

Average Cost: $9,000–$13,000 per person for a week

The Maldives is a tropical paradise known for its crystal‑clear waters and private island resorts. While the archipelago’s small size contributes to high overheads, it’s the luxury of seclusion that drives the price.

• Accommodation: Overwater villas at resorts like Soneva Fushi or Baros often cost $2,000–$3,000 per night. Each villa typically includes a personal butler, glass‑floor terraces, and private beach access.
• Travel: Flights from the U.S. to Malé average $1,500–$2,200, plus a 45‑minute speed‑boat transfer that adds $300–$500.
• Experiences: Dive packages with certified instructors, couples’ spa treatments, and gourmet dinners can quickly add $1,500–$2,500 to the overall expense.

The article includes a link to a Lonely Planet overview of the best islands for luxury travelers.

3. Santorini, Greece

Average Cost: $7,000–$9,000 per person for a week

Santorini’s iconic sunsets, white‑washed villages, and cliff‑side infinity pools attract wealthy tourists worldwide.

• Hotels: The Grace Hotel and Katikies Hotel boast rooms priced at $600–$1,000 per night. Many properties offer private plunge pools overlooking the caldera.
• Flights: Direct flights from the U.S. to Athens (with a layover in a European hub) cost $1,200–$1,800. A short flight or ferry to Santorini adds $200–$400.
• Activities: Sunset cruise packages, private wine tastings, and helicopter tours over the volcanic cliffs can cost $1,000–$2,000 per couple.

Travel + Leisure recommends a Santorini itinerary (link) that highlights the best time of year to avoid peak pricing.

4. Dubai, UAE

Average Cost: $6,500–$8,500 per person for a week

Dubai has transformed itself from a trading outpost into a glittering metropolis of luxury hotels and ultra‑modern architecture.

• Accommodations: The Burj Al Arab and Atlantis, The Palm offer rooms that start at $700 per night, with suites reaching $2,000. Many suites include personal attendants and 24‑hour spa services.
• Flights: A nonstop flight from the U.S. to Dubai can be $800–$1,300, with a single‑stop alternative at $600–$900.
• Entertainment: Desert safaris, sky‑diving, and private yacht charters are major cost drivers. A day on a private yacht alone can cost $2,000–$3,500.

The piece links to TripAdvisor’s list of Dubai’s best luxury hotels for quick comparisons.

5. Paris, France

Average Cost: $6,000–$8,000 per person for a week

Paris, the “City of Light,” remains a favorite for high‑spending travelers, and its top‑tier accommodations and fine dining are no secret.

• Lodging: The Ritz‑Paris and Four Seasons George V charge $800–$1,500 per night for rooms with panoramic city views. Suites can climb above $4,000.
• Flights: Direct flights to Paris average $900–$1,400, depending on the season.
• Dining & Shopping: Michelin‑starred restaurants such as Le Meurice can run $200–$400 per person, while high‑end shopping at the Champs‑Élysées adds to the cost.

Travel + Leisure includes a link to a Paris travel guide that outlines ways to experience luxury without breaking the bank.

6. St. Barts, Caribbean

Average Cost: $5,500–$7,500 per person for a week

The tiny French island is a favorite among the Hollywood elite, and its exclusivity comes at a premium.

• Accommodations: Resorts like Hotel Amour and Saint Barts Beach Club command nightly rates of $1,000–$3,000. Many rooms feature private pools and beachfront villas.
• Travel: Flights to the nearby island of St. Martin average $500–$800, with a private ferry to St. Barts adding $300–$600.
• Activities: Golfing on the island’s world‑class course, private yacht charters, and gourmet dining all add up quickly.

The article links to CNN Travel’s feature on St. Barts’ luxury scene.

7. Maui, Hawaii

Average Cost: $5,000–$6,500 per person for a week

Maui offers a combination of scenic beauty and high‑end resorts. The cost of staying at places like Four Seasons Maui or Wailea Beach Resort can bring a trip’s total into the upper 4,000s.

• Flights: Direct flights from the mainland U.S. to Kahului average $400–$700, but the price can surge during peak seasons.
• Resorts: Rooms and suites often include private pools, but the price for an all‑inclusive package (which is rare in Hawaii) can push the budget higher.
• Dining & Tours: A luxury helicopter tour of the island can cost $800–$1,200 per person.

Travel + Leisure suggests a Maui itinerary (link) that focuses on high‑end experiences such as whale watching and private spa days.

8. Lake Bled, Slovenia

Average Cost: $4,500–$5,500 per person for a week

While not often associated with luxury, Lake Bled’s idyllic setting and boutique hotels have carved out a niche for wealthy travelers seeking European charm.

• Accommodation: The Grand Hotel Toplice and Bled Hotel offer rooms priced at $300–$700 per night, with some suites featuring private balconies overlooking the lake.
• Flights: From the U.S. to Ljubljana typically cost $800–$1,200, plus a short drive or train ride to Bled.
• Experiences: Private boat tours of the lake, vineyard tastings, and luxury spa treatments add to the overall cost.

A National Geographic travel article on Lake Bled (link) is referenced for deeper context.

9. Reykjavík, Iceland

Average Cost: $4,200–$5,800 per person for a week

Iceland’s capital is known for its high cost of living, and that translates into pricey accommodation and experiences.

• Hotels: The Retreat at Blue Lagoon and Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre offer rooms ranging from $400–$900 per night.
• Flights: Direct flights to Keflavík can cost $600–$900.
• Activities: The famous Blue Lagoon itself can cost $200–$400 for a private lagoon experience. Guided tours of the Golden Circle and glacier hikes also add to the bill.

Travel + Leisure links to a Reykjavík travel guide (link) that highlights the best luxury hotels and tours.

10. Kyoto, Japan

Average Cost: $3,800–$5,200 per person for a week

Kyoto’s blend of traditional temples, upscale ryokans, and gourmet cuisine makes it a prime choice for luxury seekers.

• Accommodation: The Hyatt Regency Kyoto and Hotel Granvia offer rooms at $300–$700 per night, while traditional ryokans can reach $1,200 for a full‑meal, 2‑night stay.
• Flights: Direct flights from the U.S. to Tokyo average $1,000–$1,500; a 2‑hour train ride to Kyoto adds $50–$70.
• Experiences: Private tea‑ceremony tours, guided temple visits, and kaiseki dinner experiences can total $500–$1,000 per couple.

The article also references a TripAdvisor guide to Kyoto’s luxury accommodations (link).

Why Are These Trips So Expensive?

1. Exclusive Accommodations – Many of the destinations boast a limited number of ultra‑luxurious rooms or villas, which naturally drives up prices.
2. Limited Accessibility – Remote islands and remote resorts (e.g., Bora Bora, Maldives) require lengthy flights or transfers that add to the cost.
3. High Operating Costs – The cost of food, utilities, and services in these high‑end venues is higher than in standard hotels.
4. Curated Experiences – The packages often include private tours, personal butlers, and gourmet dining that would otherwise be an extra out‑of‑pocket expense.

Tips for Saving (While Still Feeling Like a VIP)

• Book Early or Late – Early‑bird or last‑minute deals can shave up to 20% off airfare and accommodation.
• Consider Off‑Season – Many destinations offer lower rates during shoulder seasons, though the weather may differ.
• Negotiate All‑Inclusive Packages – Bundling flights, transfers, and accommodations can sometimes yield discounts.
• Use Concierge Services – Many resorts offer loyalty programs or credit‑card perks that can reduce or waive certain fees.

Travel + Leisure’s analysis gives a clear snapshot of the world’s most expensive vacation destinations for American travelers. Whether you’re planning a once‑in‑a‑lifetime trip or simply curious about what makes luxury travel so pricey, the article offers a thorough breakdown—and the links to deeper dives on each location provide plenty of extra information for the savvy planner.