France is one of the few countries in the world that’s gaining popularity in the luxury tourism industry. With charming villages and magnificent ancient chateaux in the countryside to rolling vineyards producing some of the world’s most delectable wines, France will delight travellers seeking luxury experiences. Here are the top 5 luxurious destinations in France.

Paris

It’s impossible not to think of Paris when going on a luxury trip to France. The sophisticated city is known for its prestige, with affluent boutique houses, department stores, and five-star hotels exuding luxury. Whether you’ve been to Paris several times or visiting for the first time to teach English in France, the city never fails to delight anyone, especially those seeking luxury experiences.

As a luxury shopping destination, many visitors would head to Paris to shop. It has some of the world’s biggest fashion houses, from Alexander McQueen to the country’s own Coco Chanel. If you’re here for antiques and unique art pieces, check out the narrow alleyways of Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen. Here, you’ll find thousands of shops selling all kinds of fascinating objects, including world-famous works of art.

After a day of shopping, the best way to relax is on a dinner cruise in the Seine River. Admire the city’s iconic sights from your boat as it glides along the river and indulge in the delectable meals served with the finest French wine. But if you prefer to dine at a restaurant, head to Epicure, an upscale restaurant specialising in French fine dining and wine.

Cognac

Cognac is a lovely town in Southwest France famous for its luxurious spirits. While it may not be as popular as the other French towns, there are plenty of things to enjoy here, from impressive architecture to remarkably delicious restaurants. One of the most luxurious things to do in Cognac is to book a hosted dining experience with Chef Dominique Crenn, which takes place at Domaine des Étangs, a lovely château converted into a 5-star hotel.

Stroll through the city’s narrow streets and soak up the charm and relaxing atmosphere of the old town. The architecture here will transport you to the early days when it was thriving in the salt trade industry. These houses were built around the 16th and 17th centuries, featuring eclectic architectural styles. Follow the “Belle epoque” trail that takes you to Jardin de l’hotel de Ville, starting at Place Francois I.

Your visit to Cognac won’t be complete without touring the Cognac distillery, the city’s main attraction. Cognac is home to some of the biggest names in the liquor industry, such as Hennessy and Martell, which are some of the world’s leading exporters of Cognac. These distilleries offer tours both in English and French. But it’s worth noting that some of these distilleries are not open in the winter season, so better check the schedule if you come here in winter.

St Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a lovely fishing port that has become a favourite destination among jet setters. It’s full of glitz and glamour and was made famous by French actress Brigitte Bardot in 1958 after she came across La Madrague, a lovely seaside house in Saint-Tropez. Since then, the port town has become a favourite haunt of French celebrities looking to enjoy the sea, sun, and sand.

Saint-Tropez is now a favourite destination for travellers seeking luxury experiences in France. The waters of Saint-Tropez are always full of yachts, where film stars treat themselves to flowing champagne. You won’t be disappointed if you’re here for French cuisine because Saint-Tropez has the best restaurants. The best place to enjoy lunch is at the lovely La Bouillabaisse Beach, where you’ll find many beachside restaurants and cafes that opens to the stunning ocean views and serve delectable French food.

France is famous for its wine, and Saint Tropez is a great place to indulge in a glass or two of the country’s most exquisite wines. Head to Chateau Minuty Vineyard, which lies along a picturesque hillside overlooking the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Go on a vineyard tour and enjoy wine tasting while learning more about French wines.

The Loire Valley Region

Famous for its gorgeous chateaux, scenic rivers, rolling green fields, and bountiful vineyards, the Loire Valley charms history buffs, food enthusiasts, and wine lovers alike. If you’re seeking to experience some of the finer things in France, a self-drive tour around the Loire Valley is an ideal way to explore the region.

Spanning 280 kilometres, the Loire Valley lies on the banks of the Loire River. Thanks to its fertile farmlands, the valley is also called the “Garden of France”, producing the freshest ingredients that fill up the kitchens and cellars of some of the country’s best restaurants. Wine connoisseurs will enjoy tasting the region’s delectable variety of wines, from Cabernet Franc to Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.

Historically, the Loire Valley was a favourite destination of French nobilities, so it’s not surprising why this region is oozing with sophistication and luxury. Here, you’ll find some of France’s most remarkable castles and chateaux with spectacular gardens and equally impressive interiors.

Nice

Nice, the gateway to Cote d’Azur, is another fantastic destination in France to experience luxury. It’s an ideal base for exploring the French Riviera and is home to luxurious hotels surrounded by panoramic views of the Mediterranean.

When holidaying in Nice, drop by the Opéra de Nice, one of the finest examples of 19th Century French architecture. Don’t miss the chance to witness top-notch performances of opera, ballets, and symphonies. Enjoy a stroll at the Promenade des Anglais, soak up the sweeping ocean views, and admire the most stunning examples of Gothic architecture.

Home to numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, Nice is a fantastic destination to indulge in luxury dining experiences. One of the city’s best restaurants is Chantecler, situated along Promenade des Anglais and housed at the Hotel Negresco. The interior features 18th-century decor, while the menu consists of French gourmet entrees paired with the finest French wine. Be sure to make a reservation since the restaurant is often full.

Starting in Chicago and winding its way through eight states all the way to the west coast, Route 66 is an iconic road trip for any travelling fan. It was one of the first original roads built in the US but was immortalised by John Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath, which uses the route to symbolise freedom, escape, loss, and hope. Every traveller can identify to at least one of those.

But today, all the route is so iconic that it’s tradition as a migration route west is peppered with fun stops and one-of-a-kind sights. It’s bound to when it crosses Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California.

But what are the best stops on the Route? How do you get the best out of your migration on Route 66? Read our suggestions to find out the best stops.

Buckingham Fountain in Chicago Millennium Park, Chicago, Illinois

If you’re heading west from Illinois, you’re likely to start your spiritual migration in Chicago, which has a million reasons to stick around before you get in the car. Technically you have to get out of the city and onto the road to start on the Route 66, but a lot of 66 migrants start at the Buckingham Fountain in Chicago. Perhaps you can throw a penny into the fountain for a joyous journey and enjoy lots of the eateries around the city. On the route specifically, you can find the Rich and Creamy ice cream stand on Broadway Street or Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket on Joliet Road and everything else in between. Driving from city to city may not feel like a typical holiday but it still is one. Things could go wrong, so, it might be a good idea to get some form of travel insurance for your trip, for example, providers like Staysure travel insurance cover medical expenses, cancellations, and lost/stolen cash – so to check that ‘just in case of an emergency box’ get a policy, just to make sure everything runs smoothly.

The Route 66 Car Museum, Springfield Missouri

Route 66 is already a trip that’s going to appeal to car lovers, so it’s a good thing there are a few car hotspots along the route. As you reach Missouri, for example, you’ll pass the Route 66 Car Museum, which is full of vintage and celebrity cars. Something you can see Sherlock Holmes driving, Danny Zuko driving, or Adam West’s Batman driving.

Even better, you can stop by the Abou Ben Adhen Shrine Mosque, which is one of Springfield’s most historic buildings. The old 100-year-old theatre is now used as a concert hall full of unique artifacts.

The Rock Café, Stroud, Oklahoma

You’ve seen the Hard Rock Café. They’re a dime a dozen. They’re in every city in the world nowadays. But there’s nothing like The Rock Café in Stroud Oklahoma. The iconic café is made from stone quarried in the 1920s. The movie Cars, itself finding great identity with Route 66, features the café and The Rock Café features signed napkins and posters left behind by the film’s director while he was writing in it.

And while you’re in Stroud, you should visit the Skyliner Motel, which has its iconic sign pointing down the route.

Cadillac Ranch, Texas

Another stop for those with gasoline in their veins, the Cadillac Ranch is less of a gallery of iconic cars and more of an art installation where cars are the canvas. Driving just 10 miles outside of Amarillo will drive you will see 10 graffiti-coated Cadillacs buried nose-first into the sands of the desert, making for an interesting backdrop for advertisements, music videos, and a personal photo album.

Amarillo still holds the beef industry in high regard, handling over 2 million cattle a year, so take the chance to get yourself a steak or to a grill for some of the best beef in country.

There’s currently an ongoing battle to win a coveted New York casino license, with real estate colossus ‘Related Companies’ joining forces with Las Vegas gambling behemoth Wynn Resorts to pitch their bid.

Another developer (SL Green Realty Corporation) has proposed a Caesars Palace location in Times Square, with this arguably one of the most ambitious projects in play.

Many of these projects involve some influence from Las Vegas, which remains the heart and soul of the nation’s brick-and-mortar gambling hub and retains a romantic allure that has lasted for generations.

But why has the incredible allure of Las Vegas never faded, and is this likely to continue indefinitely given the popularity of the best high roller online casinos and other virtual substitutes for the glitz and glamour of Vegas?Let’s find out!

How Vegas Even Survived the Impact of Covid-19

While the coronavirus pandemic and state lockdowns saw many casinos close their doors through 2020 and the formative part of 2021, Las Vegas has rebounded quicker than most in terms of demand and prosperity.

To this end, Internet searches for Las Vegas travel jumped by 7% in August, building on previous gains of 5% and 3% in July and June respectively.

With further momentum thought to have built through September, it’s little wonder that demand and the Strip’s gross gaming revenues (GGR) have continued to peak while other states and hospitality sectors have struggled to recover post-Covid.

Current GGR forecasts for the Strip peaked at $631 million in August, with this representing a year-on-year increase of 1%. Annual GGR is expected to top $8.2 billion in 2022, with this 15% up on 2021 and a staggering 24% higher than pre-Covid levels in 2019.

So, although overall Las Vegas visitation remains around 9% lower than 2019 levels, spending continues to increase and is some 40% ahead of the activity recorded through 2019 and before the pandemic reshape the social and economic landscape in the US.

Even visitation numbers are expected to increase markedly in the near-term, with several marquee events and conventions (alongside high profile sporting events including the Super Bowl LVIII) scheduled to take place in the next couple of years.

The sheer scale and volume of such events highlight the unique appeal of Las Vegas and the wider state of Nevada, while suggesting that this extends beyond the realm of land-based gambling and Sin City’s hedonistic reputation.

Future Growth and Revenues – How Las Vegas Goes from Strength to Strength

To provide further context around the wider appeal of Las Vegas as an iconic popular venue, the city will host a Formula One race in November 2023.

This will prove to be an epic money-making exercise for Strip operators and the city as a whole, with MGM currency structuring ticket prices and a selection of room packages that could peak at a staggering $100,000.

In terms of the perennially strong and popular casino sector in Las Vegas, this continues to grow and entertain new resort locations.

To this end, Clark County commissioners recently gave billionaire Tilman Fertitta the green light to develop a new, towering hotel-casino on the coveted Strip.

The initial plans made scope for a 43-story, 2,420-room project in the world’s most famous and packed casino corridors, while it’s being proposed as an up-scale report that will sit at the southeast corner of Las Vegas Boulevard and Harmon Avenue.

The complex would include restaurants, convention space, spas and a wedding chapel, along with a 2,500-seat theatre, lavish suits and even VIP salons.

These features would sit alongside a dedicated lounge for high-stakes gamblers, while the casino resort itself would add to Fertitta’s portfolio and the popular ‘Golden Nugget’ operation in downtown Vegas.

However, owning a resort on the Strip is a much bigger deal all together, while it would afford the ambitious tycoon a foothold in the heartland of America’s casino capital.

This will also cash in on the recent activity and interest in Las Vegas, which shows no sign of abating anytime soon!

The Last Word

As we can see, Vegas has recovered quickly and impressively from the devastating impact of the coronavirus pandemic, with relevant travel related Internet searches, spending levels and GGR soaring even when compared with 2019 levels.

This has much to do with the history and unique appeal of Las Vegas, which is renowned as the gambling capital in the US and has remained true to its identity even as the country and world around it has continued to change.

But can it retain this status and reputation in an age of online gambling?

Well, it’s relatively safe for now, with just six US states having legalised online casino gambling and others facing opposition to bills that have been put to senators.

The constant introduction of new casinos, restaurants and activities keeps the city fresh and exciting, and is what keeps patrons coming back for more every single year.

What’s more, Vegas’ appeal transcends the casino gambling space, and remains a huge and attractive draw for events and conventions from all around the world!

The location of the new Elite Residence project and its remarkable features

Elite Downtown in the UAE, as the project’s name suggests, is located in Downtown Dubai. This district is also called the center of the metropolis. This fast-growing part is home to numerous attractions like the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountains, and the Dubai Mall. There is always something to do. Additionally, the community is well-known as a prime place to live. It used to be a “vertical” community. But later on, a lot of villas were added to the real estate market. What else is there to know if you are interested in this area? Let’s find out.

Location

The city center is well linked to other key commercial and residential districts. It is strategically located on the border of Business Bay, along Sheikh Zayed Road, E11, and connected to Al Wasl, a fairly active and bustling neighbourhood. Downtown is one of the best places in Dubai for non-drivers and frequent travellers. Plenty of amenities, including upscale hotels, chic holiday destinations, and large shopping malls, make this district a sought-after “center of it all”.

Residential complex South Ridge Towers in Dubai

• A home to the highest building, the Burj Khalifa.
• Various parades and festivals all year round.
• Rich and well-rounded experience.
• Properties with impressing top-class amenities.
• One of the best family-friendly neighbourhoods in the metropolis.

An overview

Downtown Dubai, developed by Emaar Properties, is an integrated multi-use community appealing to a wide range of people. In terms of property types, there are a lot of high-quality premium apartments here. It makes the area the best choice among other districts of the metropolis for renting. Elite residential towers also feature elegant penthouses and podium villas.

Real estate in Dubai

Local apartments come in different designs and configurations, depending on the complex. Studios to four-bedroom apartments can also be found here. New off-plan buildings (currently unfinished) will also be ready to delight future residents with five-bedroom apartment options.

As with all massive projects, the Downtown architecture differs widely. From low-rise traditional Arabic-style apartment complexes to more ultra-modern skyscrapers, the neighbourhood has it all!

There is no doubt that the community has become the standard of modern “vertical” communities. Of course, there is also a wide range of villas, centering on the podiums of The Residences, Boulevard Point, and others. The configuration of these residential facilities varies from three- to four-bedroom options. Besides, there is Opera Grand, an off-plan project with an exclusive collection of townhouses.

Downtown Dubai attracts first-time homeowners and even those who have been living in the country for decades. Due to its status and global allure, people from all over the world flock to this hustling and bustling area.

Return on investment

Studios provide the highest ROI of 5.9%. One-bedroom apartments have a ROI of 5.1%. Two- and four-bedroom apartments generate a 4.7% return. Next come the three- and five-bedroom apartments with 4.3% and 4.1%, respectively.

Compared to apartment buildings, there are fewer options for investing in villas. 3.7% is the highest ROI for a two-bedroom configuration. Four-bedroom villas can bring a 3.3% return. At the same time, a three-bedroom villa brings a 3% ROI.

Hotels

Since Downtown is a preferred tourist destination, there are a lot of hotels. The best hotels are the following:

• Armani Hotel Dubai
• Palace Downtown
• Address Boulevard
• Manzil Downtown

Transport and parking spaces

Most residential apartments, if not all of them, have separate parking spaces. And guests can use paid parking lots scattered throughout the territory or underground parking.

Public transport

The city’s locals and guests can readily find public transport options in Downtown. For those who do not own a car, it is quite easy to travel around the city. Furthermore, in addition to the many registered taxis, the F13 bus stops are available for people who prefer to use public transport.

The Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa station is popular with metro users. Emirates Towers metro station is also within easy reach. The Dubai Trolleybus also runs along Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard. It is the world’s first hydrogen-fueled transport that helps people get to various popular destinations in the emirate. Thanks to its vibrant “never stop” vibe, the area is designed to be accommodating to pedestrians. Many guests and residents often walk around the territory, as the area is ideal for these kinds of excursions.

Supermarkets

There are various grocery stores like Spinneys and Al Maya. In alongside with the large Waitrose hypermarket in the Dubai Mall. Other small grocery shops situated on the ground floors of residential buildings oftentimes provide home delivery services.

The surrounding areas

Downtown Dubai is the heart of the metropolis, linked to both old and new Dubai. Geographically, it is near Sheikh Zayed Road, between the business centers of DIFC and Business Bay. Nad Al Sheba (where the Meydan Racecourse is) is just a few minutes’ drive to the east. Jumeirah 1 is located to the west of the district.

Shopping, restaurants and nightlife

You don’t have to be a tourist to experience the magnetic attraction of Downtown Dubai!

Stores

The district is home to the most popular shopping malls in the city. Shopping therapy and recreation in the mall are some of the favourite things to do here.

The Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall, the largest shopping complex in the emirate, is a place where local and global brands come together. It has literally everything, from fashion items to literature and technology. With the opening of Fashion Avenue, visitors can shop for such high-end brands as Chanel, Prada, Louis Vuitton, etc. Other shops include a hypermarket, hardware stores, home goods stores, and exclusive eateries.

Aside from shopping, you can have dinner, go to a movie theatre, or play eKart Zabeel here. The Dubai Mall also has hookah bars like HuQQa, Cabana, and Dish/Dash. India Palace Express, Texas Roadhouse, New Shanghai, and PF. Chang’s are just some of the well-known local restaurants. You can dine at one of the many eateries or have a coffee and a bite to eat at the mall’s various cafes, such as Angelina Tearoom, Coffeol, and Starbucks.

Souk Al Bahar

You can experience a top shopping in the relatively quiet Souk Al Bahar. It has cosy lounges, diners, and over 100 shops. From Arabic perfumes to dried fruits and spices, the most authentic things can be found here. Popular restaurants at Souk al Bahar are, but not limited to, Shakespeare and Co., Patiala, Karma Kafe, and Claw BBQ.

Restaurants

Another integral part of the Dubai city center lifestyle is food and public holidays. Famous cafes and gourmet restaurants serve everything, starting with nitrogen-frozen ice cream to mouth-watering steaks.

You will find some amazing restaurants with the Dubai Fountain views where you can have a romantic date, or more casual cafes where you can hang out with friends. As for homesick Indian expats, there are many Indian restaurants like Shamiana, Patiala. and Peppermil.

Beaches

The area is situated on the east side of Sheikh Zayed Road. So unfortunately, residents will not be able to walk to the beach on foot. That being said, with well-planned road links, popular public beaches can be reached in just 15-20 minutes by car. Those who enjoy the water but can’t wait that long just need to head to the public swimming pool. They exist in many towers in Downtown.

Conclusion

This phrase is often used in many overviews, but it is clear that it is 100% true here: in this area, everyone will find something according to their tastes!

A selection of off-plan projects in Dubai

Start your house hunting and easily compare prices throughout Dubai today! Details are on the website: https://elite-downtown-residence.ae/.

No two beaches are ever the same. Some are ideal for a romantic getaway, some are designed for adventure. Whether you are an energetic diver, a beach party-lover or a laid-back sunbather, there is a beach out there ready to match your vibe. So, grab your SPF and your best bathing suit and get ready for the perfect beach vacation.

For the Incurable Romantic – Fare Beach, Huahine, French Polynesia

Whether you are on your honeymoon, about to propose or on your 30th anniversary romantic getaway, Fare Beach in Huahine, French Polynesia is the perfect option for you. French Polynesia is a romantic paradise on earth and one of the most beautiful places in the world, so any island you choose for your vacation will be breathtaking. Plus, if you decide on this South Pacific gem for your proposal, you get the chance to choose a unique ring from a variety of different pearl engagement rings, right from one of the famous pearl farms on the island.

For the Glamourous One – Pampelonne Beach, St. Tropez

If you love to travel in style and enjoy the high life, then Pampelonne Beach, the most glamorous of all St Tropez’s beaches, is the place for you.A hot spot for celebs, St. Tropez is the epitome of glitz and glamor. Here, you have a good chance to spot someone famous while sipping on a tropical cocktail, lounging under your umbrella.

For the Adventurer – Playa Jardín, Tenerife, The Canary Islands

The perfect destination for adventure-seeking travellers, The Canary Islands are the ideal combination between stunning scenery, gorgeous beaches, vibrant nightlife and plenty of adventure opportunities. From mountain biking and hiking to surfing, diving, and even whale watching, Tenerife offers plenty of attractions for its millions of yearly tourists.

For the Old Soul – Spiaggia Grande, Positano

If you love listening to relaxing jazz while sipping your coffee in the morning, or if you enjoy a glass of wine with dinner every once in a while and you appreciate a good vintage bottle, you will probably love Positano. The most iconic village on the Amalfi Coast, Positano is home to breathtaking coastline and spectacular turquoise waters. Ideal for an old soul with refined taste in food and vacation spots, the Spiaggia Grande beach in Positano is the one for you.

For the One with a Colourful Personality – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro

Lively is a major understatement when it comes to Rio de Janeiro. This magical city is home to the most famous carnival in the world, so it only makes sense that this destination is ideal for a very joyful person. Copacabana, the place that makes millions of tourists fall in love with Rio every year, is one of the most famous beaches in Rio. Bursting with nightclubs, restaurants, and hotels, this animated beach is a mood changer, so make sure you stop by when visiting Rio.

For the Relaxed One – Hulhumale Beach, Maldives

If you enjoy a good relaxing vacation and prefer to be one with nature, Maldives is the place to go. This paradise on earth is ideal for taking things slow, enjoying the calm of the place and connecting with nature. Whether you are traveling with your family, friends or rocking it solo, the white sandy beaches of Maldives and breathtaking crystal-clear waters will provide everything you need for the most relaxing tropical vacation ever.

Iceland feels like it was made by hikers for hikers. An endless expanse rich with roaring rivers, mossy meadows, obsidian beaches, and towering volcanoes, it’s an outdoor lover’s dream come true.

We truly believe that you’re doing yourself a disservice by not paying a visit. This is why, in hopes of getting as many people as possible on the trails, we’ve listed our 5 reasons why you should absolutely add some Iceland hiking trips to your 2023 bucket list.

The scenery never gets stale

Caption: It might look photoshopped, but once you visit Landmannalaugar, you’ll see that the photo doesn’t do it justice.

Very few places on the planet can boast landscapes as diverse as Iceland. You’ll find everything from mossy green meadows, geothermal hot springs, and volcanic plains to massive glaciers, black-sand beaches, and rainbow-colored rhyolite mountains! In the land of fire and ice, every step feels like venturing into a different world.

You can have endless fun under the Midnight Sun

Caption: Falling asleep in the Midnight Sun can be tough. Good thing you can just hike instead!

Due to its position on the Earth’s axis, Iceland faces radical changes in daylight throughout the year. In the summer months, this leads to a phenomenon known as the “polar day”, meaning the sun almost never sets! Seeing it is an extremely surreal experience, and the everlasting sun brings boundless adventure opportunities.

Beginners are welcome

Caption: Some of Iceland’s most dramatic landmarks are surprisingly easy to reach.

Don’t let words like “volcanoes” and “glaciers” scare you away—some of the greatest hikes in Iceland are beginner-friendly. Take, for example, the Laugavegur trail, the most famous trail in the country, which doesn’t require any prior multi-day hiking experience, while iconic areas like Thorsmörk and Landmannalaugar offer plenty of great day hikes for children and folks over 50.

You don’t need to worry about the wildlife

Caption: How could anyone be scared of this little guy?

You’ll find no dangerous, poisonous, venomous, or otherwise harmful animals in Iceland. If, on your trek, you even happen upon any wildlife, it will most likely be birds, fish, or the occasional rabbit, reindeer, or mink, but that’s about it. The only mammal native to the island is the Arctic Fox, and they’re very afraid of humans, so you should consider yourself lucky if you spot one in the wild.

You can take a walk on the wild side

Caption: What might be hiding in this cave? There’s only one way to find out.

It may be famous for its classic trails, but we believe that Iceland shines brightest when you leave the beaten path. As you’re uncovering secluded waterfalls, traversing obsidian coves, or spelunking down long-forgotten caves, you’ll feel just like the explorers of old. No other place in the world stimulates the adventurous spirit quite like Iceland.

Whether you’re tackling famous trails, hunting for hidden gems, scouring for sweet photo-ops, or making memories with your loved ones, you’ll find just what you need in Iceland. Ready to follow in the footsteps of the Vikings?