Northern AZ Luxury LIVING - VOL. 2, NO. 3

ometimes you want to take a vacation where you feel truly pampered and indulged, but you fail to bake it into your plans.

You assume it will happen based on the hotels, attractions and restaurants you choose, but at the end of your trip you realize that really didn’t happen, or at least didn’t meet your expectations.

Maybe you were left holding and lugging the bags through the airport or searching fruitlessly for restaurants with out-of-this-world cuisine and service. The best way to ensure your high-end vacation actually feels luxurious is to book extra amenities ahead of time.

• Plane sense — You already know not to fly coach, but airlines have been putting more amenities into their business class sections, making it a bigger step up and worthy of the extra cost.

First class is harder to find, but if it’s available to where you’re going (most likely on longer flights) and you’re able to foot the significantly higher fare, the lie-flat seats and ornate lounges are definitely worth your while.

• At the airport — This can be as much about what’s not there as what is — shipping your luggage ahead paves the way

to a relaxed vacation vibe.

Having an airport greeter to lead you through customs at any international airport will have you sailing to your ultimate destination.

• Rent a luxury villa — Whether it’s in Florida, Tuscany or Goa, luxury villas offer over-the-top amenities like a chef on call 24/7, ultrapersonalized concierge services, housekeeping staff and onsite massage and other spa treatments. The privacy and the services they

proffer are unparalleled.

• Private guidance — If you’re at all unfamiliar with your destination it’s imperative to find a private guide with the deep knowledge to take you where you will get the most out of your trip. They’ll get you to the front of every line and steer you to the most reputable and accommodating stores and attractions.

If your interest revolves around a certain aspect of the culture such as art or history, find a specialist.