Beyond the Gram: Are Luxe Vacations Worth The Splurge And Planning?

Travel has long been a way to stretch our boundaries, expose ourselves to new cultures, and create memories that last a lifetime. Over time, however, the concept of an ideal vacation has evolved. Today, many people choose destinations that aren’t just breathtaking but also Instagrammable, often driven by the allure of showcasing once-in-a-lifetime experiences on social media. But are these luxe getaways really worth the splurge, and do you have to break the bank to experience these?

YouTuber and travel expert, Tanya Khanijow, whose wanderlust has taken her across the Arctic, Japan, and to several other destinations, says, "Travel is one of the most transformational experiences. Once you experience it, you realise how much it can change who you are. The friends you make, the memories you create—they stay with you forever."

Tanya’s number one recommendation for a transformative travel experience? Norway. "This year and the next are prime for seeing the northern lights," she noted. "Imagine being on a yacht, watching the aurora borealis dance, or going whale-watching with snowy peaks as your backdrop." While Norway is a costly destination, Tanya emphasised that careful planning can make it more affordable. “A well-organised trip can cost around ₹3 lakh per person, including flights,” she added.

The northern lights in Norway have attracted increased interest. According to a 2023 study by GlobalData, Norway’s tourism is projected to grow by 5.3% annually through 2024, driven by experiences like the aurora borealis. With travel costs rising globally, however, Tanya suggests budget-conscious strategies like travelling during off-peak months or booking in advance to secure lower prices.

Japan, with its perfect balance of tradition and modernity, comes in second on Tanya’s list. "If you visit during cherry blossom season, skip the usual Tokyo-Kyoto route and head north to Hirosaki Castle, where fields of cherry blossoms stretch as far as the eye can see," she advised. Tanya noted that travel passes like the JR Pass can help bring costs down, and a 10-day Japan trip could cost around ₹1.5 lakh per person.

The Japanese tourism industry has seen remarkable growth in the past decade. In 2023, Japan welcomed nearly 32 million international visitors, a 5.7% increase from the previous year, according to Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) data. As global travel returns to pre-pandemic levels, Japan continues to be a top destination, especially for those seeking cultural immersion and natural beauty.

Founder & CEO of Credence Family Office, Kirtan Shah, shared his perspective on balancing the desire for travel with savings: "If you don’t travel, you’re missing out on a lot. You don’t want to be in a situation where you want to die rich... What’s the point of having so much money when you retire, but your health does not support you to travel?"

While Norway and Japan are dream destinations, Tanya also recommends lesser-known spots like Peru, Zimbabwe, and Oman for unforgettable experiences. But what about the costs of such long-haul trips? According to a 2024 survey by Airbnb, 60% of travellers are now looking for destinations that offer unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences that don't break the bank.

At the same time, Skyscanner’s 2023 Travel Trends Report highlights that the average price of international flights from India increased by 18% in the past year, with destinations like the Maldives, Australia, and the US seeing the most significant jumps.

Thus, it’s clear that exotic travel can be expensive, but it’s also possible to find less tourist-heavy spots that provide equally enriching experiences. Shah offered some budgeting advice, saying, "We make it a point as a family to spend 5-10% of our annual income on entertainment. If we don't spend this much on our leisure, what's the point of making that kind of money?"

For those determined to make their travel dreams come true, Tanya underlined the importance of early planning. "Book flights early, be flexible with dates, and try group tours to save on costs," she suggested. Tanya also mentioned seeking out lesser-known destinations, which can often offer equally stunning experiences at a fraction of the price.

One way to make luxe travel more affordable is to leverage credit card points. Many travel-focused credit cards offer rewards for everyday spending that can be redeemed for free flights, hotel stays, and access to airport lounges. According to a 2024 report by FIS Global, 45% of Indian consumers now use rewards-based credit cards for international travel. Tanya shared that using a credit card that offers higher points for travel-related purchases is an effective way to maximise rewards.

Shah also stressed the importance of travel insurance. "Medical insurance is sacrosanct... I developed shingles on a U.S. trip, and a five-minute consultation cost me $3,600. A $25,000 medical policy costs just Rs 2,500—a small price for peace of mind," he said to drive home his point.

As travel costs continue to climb, it’s crucial to factor in currency conversion fees, which can eat into your travel budget. Shah highlighted an important tip, "Typically, when you convert currency, you pay a conversion fee twice—once when converting rupees into dollars and again into the destination currency. Credit cards often have lower costs on foreign currency transactions, making them a smarter option."

Short-term travel planning is another way to save. According to a 2023 study by the India Tourism Department, 53% of Indian travellers prefer to plan their vacations a few months in advance, rather than years. Shah pointed out that travel planning doesn’t require long-term investments like an SIP for education.

So, are luxe vacations worth the splurge? The answer, for many, is yes. If the memories you create outlast the Instagram likes, then the journey becomes more than just a display of your adventures — it becomes a part of who you are. Bon voyage!