Getting away for a few days sounds terrific provided you go to the right place, and finding the right place really isn’t that difficult. To begin, consider what you want out of your vacation. Are you a family that requires a few extras to keep the kids occupied? Are you single looking for love or a romantic couple looking for a little time to themselves? Do you want adventure? Once you decide what you’re really looking for, you’ll be on your way to finding the best resort for your vacation and to make your choice even easier, here are some of the best resorts in the world to choose from.

The world’s best resorts…nice

Those who enjoy stepping back in time will enjoy the Ashford Castle in Ireland. This castle was built in 1228 and at one point was part of the Guinness estate. In 2008, it was voted the best resort in Ireland by Conde Nast. Nestled in Cong, County Mayo, this castle has retained the majority of the original architecture and many other elements that date back to 1228. Of course, there is a modern flair and the comforts of home in each of the guest rooms. Rates start at €113 and can continue upwards to €850. Some rates will include a full Irish breakfast and while on the estate, guests can enjoy fishing, a lake cruise, or a walk through the gardens. The estate also has a nine-hole golf course designed by Eddie Hackett that is located on the grounds. Some of the estate activities may require an additional charge.

Fancy living it up in a Castle?

For a little adventure further afield, you can try the Singita Animal Reserves in South Africa. Here you’ll find luxury accommodation set in the wilds of Africa. While staying at the Singita, you will receive all meals and drinks, including alcoholic drinks inclusive of the price of the holiday. You’ll also be treated to two Land Rover safaris each day and an experienced tour guide will look after you. Some lodges have pools and guests can also relax by playing tennis, archery, or by going horseback riding. Rates begin around €800 per night for one bedroom accommodation.

South Africa - of course

If the wilds of Africa aren’t your thing and you want to relax in a place that’s a tad cooler, try the Le Melezin in the French Alps. The Le Melezin is a luxury ski resort built in 1992, but the history dates back to 1956 when the resort was opened as La Savoy. You will find the skiing at Le Melezin to be some of the finest in Europe and what makes it even better is that you don’t have to travel far from the resort to do it.

Fancy going colder?

While going on a safari, stepping back in time, or even going skiing at a posh resort may sound wonderful, you may want to keep it a little lower key, especially if you have young children. Some resorts that will keep things more low-key include The Four Seasons Aviara Resort North in San Diego. This resort has one of the best kids’ programmes around. For the tweens and teens, there’s a posh games room with pinball, pool, TVs, and other games to keep them occupied. For the younger crowd, bedtime milk and cookies as well as the playground pool will without a doubt be a thrill. Parents will love the child size toiletries, bathrobes, extra diapers and wipes, spout covers for infants, and bumper guards. Upon request, parents’ rooms can be childproofed. Nearby attractions include the San Diego Zoo, Sea World, the beach, and numerous parks/art galleries.

The Four Seasons. Classic holiday fare

For those looking for a little more fun in the sun, the Rosewood Little Dix Bay in the Bahamas may be just right. At Little Dix Bay, children are given nearly 3,000 square feet to play in. There’s a playground that looks like a pirate ship, and supervised activities in crafts, shell-hunting, treasure hunting, nature walks, “monkey lounge”, stone painting, and Caribbean folk art. Also, every Monday the Rosewood Little Dix Bay throws a pirate party for the kiddies. However, one of the great things about Little Dix Bay is that the kid’s area is separate from the rest of the resort. So for those of you looking for a romantic getaway, Little Dix Bay can accommodate you as well.

How about hitting the Bahamas?

But let’s face it, not all of us have €800 per night to spend on a resort vacation. The good news is, you don’t have to. There are plenty of resorts that offer luxury, adventure, and relaxation without breaking the bank.

In India, there is the Wild Orchid Resort. Here guests can swim in the Andaman Sea, spend a day on Havelock Island, and relax by taking in the views of the Havelock green hills. While at the Wild Orchid, guests will stay in cottages that have their own bathroom and they can take part in beach, fishing, and snorkelling excursions. Snorkelling trips are arranged by request and the Wild Orchid provides lunch, fins, snorkel, and masks for participants. Guests can dine at the on-site restaurant, The Red Snapper, and get a massage at the Ayurveda Spa which is also located on-site. You’re probably thinking, “Yeah, but how much?” Prices start at €29 for the Low-Season and €59 for High-Season. Rates include jetty transfers and breakfast for 2 people. There is no charge for children under 12 staying in their parents’ room.

India is emerging as a top holiday location

An inexpensive but luxury vacation doesn’t have to be in the far reaches of India though. You can travel to Florida and stay at the Cabbage Key Inn for a mere €87. The Cabbage Key Inn is located northwest of Ft. Myers and just below Boca Grande and is only accessible by boat. There are no roads or cars located on the island so it is the perfect escape from the rest of the world. Guests can relax on the beaches, fish, enjoy the nature trails, or dine at one of the two restaurants located on site. Fishing excursions are lead by a variety of charter companies and are an additional charge. There are a variety of cottages that guests can stay in or if you prefer, you can stay in a room at the Historic Inn.

Florida? Out of hurricane season though

The Saline Gardens in St. Bart’s also offers an inexpensive getaway. For €139, guests can escape to the sun and warmth of the sea. At the Saline Gardens, there are a variety of cottages that guests can stay in. Some of the cottages have a kitchenette while others do not. However, each cottage is decorated tastefully and has a private terrace that is landscaped beautifully so that you truly feel that you are in paradise. While on the island, guests can participate in wind surfing, surfing, snorkelling, deep-sea diving, waterskiing, and kite surfing. Guests can also enjoy land sports such as golf, tennis, horseback riding, and fitness activities. Afterwards, guests can relax by taking a yoga class or getting at massage at the spa.

St Barts. Nice.

No matter what you want in a vacation or where you want to go, there are plenty of resorts to choose from around the globe at every price level to meet every need. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, get your plane ticket, and get going on the vacation of your dreams!

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