10 Luxury Destinations to Splurge on with Your Tax Refund
The average U.S. tax refund for 2021 was $2,833, offering a substantial boost for travel dreams. For larger refunds, the options expand dramatically—from lavish Las Vegas weekends to extended expeditions across the globe. Explore these 10 exceptional recommendations from trusted travel experts.
Antarctica
Lindblad Expeditions' 24-day Antarctic cruise includes South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. Guided by National Geographic experts, encounter leopard, fur, and elephant seals; diverse whales; and thousands of penguins including Adélie, gentoo, chinstrap, macaroni, king, and possibly emperor penguins. Visit Ernest Shackleton's grave, then relax with saunas, gym sessions, or hot toddies during onboard lectures.
Price: From $25,220
Chilean Patagonia
Patagonia's dramatic landscapes—glaciers, turquoise lakes, and guanacos—make it a bucket-list destination. Stay at Explora Patagonia in Torres del Paine National Park, choosing from 40 guided horseback and hiking excursions, including the iconic towers trek.
Price: From $1,962 per night (3-night minimum)
Fiji
Escape to Fiji's pristine beaches and reefs. Laucala Island Resort, owned by Dietrich Mateschitz, features 24 private villas with pools, stocked bars, and personalized dining. Enjoy the 18-hole golf course and lush gardens.
Price: $4,800 per night
Vietnam
Beyond city bustle, Anantara Quy Nhon Villas offers seclusion with butler service, private pools, and tropical gardens. Explore nearby temples and trails, then unwind with a four-hand massage at the spa.
Price: From $535 per night
African Safari
Micato Safaris delivers unparalleled wildlife encounters, from zebra herds to lion prides and wildebeest migrations. Customize with Elite Running or Wilderness and Winelands options. Their philanthropy funds one child's education per safari.
Price: From $9,550 per person
Cabo San Lucas
Nobu Hotel Los Cabos stands out for Nobu’s Japanese-Peruvian fusion, private beach, minimalist design, and hydrotherapy spa. Venture out for a boat trip to El Arco.
Price: From $419 per night
Dubai
Dubai dazzles with record-breaking attractions. The Burj Al Arab, the world's first seven-star hotel, offers opulent duplex suites; the Royal Suite includes two master suites, private cinema, and lavish bathrooms.
Price: $9,000 per night
The Maldives
The Muraka at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island features an underwater bedroom with reef views. Dine at Ithaa, the undersea restaurant with seafood menus.
Price: $50,000 per night (4-night packages)
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Belmond's Venice Simplon-Orient-Express revives Art Deco glamour on routes via Paris, Venice, London, and Istanbul. Grand Suites include en-suite bathrooms and unlimited champagne.
Price: From $7,713 per person (double occupancy)
Las Vegas
The Bellagio offers luxury amid Vegas excitement. Savor tasting menus at Joël Robuchon or Le Cirque before the casino.
Price: From $169 per night; Le Cirque prix-fixe $108 per person (Robuchon significantly higher)
