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Top 10
It has long been a misconception that five-star getaways must come at a sky-high price. Many destinations around the world offer luxurious hotels, vibrant cultural offerings and great food at significantly lower prices than those of comparable locales. These are seven top-notch destinations where you can savor the finer things—without breaking the bank.Contact Indagare to book a trip to one of these destinations where your dollar will go far. Our travel specialists can match you with the best hotels, arrange great meals and activities and organize special excursions.
With a centuries-long history, extraordinary wine regions and an emerging sector of high-end hotels, restaurants and shops, Portugal is quickly becoming Europe’s coolest country. While the destination offers somewhat less luxury than other European locales, this is more than compensated for by the opportunity to experience a culture that hasn’t been overly tailored to visitors. And as the tourism industry develops, prices are relatively low: drinks (including glasses of very good Portuguese wine) seldom cost more than two or three euros, and dinner in the most formal restaurants rarely comes to more than fifty euros per person. Rates at the Six Senses Douro Valley, the country’s most magnificent hotel, start at around 400 euros per night. Shopping in Lisbon is great, with unique accessories and home goods made by local artisans, often using traditional methods, available at affordable prices.
Related: Why Go Now: Portugal
The largest metropolitan area in the western hemisphere, Mexico City, while remaining deeply rooted in tradition, is in the midst of a modern renaissance. As a bustling cultural capital, Mexico City’s distinct influences (ancient ruins, colonial rule and innovative contemporary culture) are seamlessly woven into the same fabric. This unique spirit is palpable to visitors, and the city continues to wow travelers with its exceptional culinary, historical and artistic offerings. Today, the US dollar is particularly strong (in relation to the Mexican peso), making shopping and eating out a relative bargain; and even the most sought-after hotels, such as the Four Seasons, offer high-touch service and luxury amenities at a fraction of the price of their European counterparts.
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Mysterious, alluring and chock-full of cultural treasures like Machu Picchu and Cusco, Peru is in the same league as bucket list destinations such as Siem Reap or India but offers significantly lower prices. There are a number of charming yet budget-friendly boutique hotels, such as Hotel B, Sol y Luna and Palacio Nazarenas, that offer travelers a delightful sense of place without having to sacrifice creature comforts. And luxury lodges such as Titilaka ($1,000/night), include meals and excursions to the extraordinary UNESCO-protected Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island, which makes for a fantastic deal. In addition, Lima is an urban gem that offers considerable bang for your buck when it comes to shopping and dining. The Barranco neighborhood in particular is emerging as a trendy locale rife with charming shops and alfresco dining—and low prices to boot.
Related: Where to Travel in 2018: Nine to Know
We only feature hotels that we can vouch for first-hand. At many of them, Indagare members receive special amenities.
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