From Maldives to Australia: Vacation like a Celeb at these A-List approved stays on Booking.com

08 November, 2023

For many, travel is all about indulging and living their best lives, with Booking.com research revealing that for almost half (47%)* of global travelers, luxury accommodation is a key factor in deciding on their travel destination. As the long, warm summer nights are behind us, now could be the perfect time to indulge in a luxurious, celeb-style getaway. As we are no stranger to celebrity stays, this year, why not level up a getaway that’s A-list approved? For the fifth (18%) of travelers who would wish to actually meet a famous celebrity from a show or movie on their travels, we have compiled a list of top holiday destinations of the rich and famous and best places to stay like a celebrity and increase the odds of mixing with the stars.

Maldives

The Maldives is famous for their picture-perfect beaches, crystal-clear waters and of course the most luxurious resorts in the world. Maldives is a regular hot spot for the rich and the famous. From Hollywood celebrities to world famous athletes to the Bollywood stars, all head to the Maldives, for a romantic or family vacation. Nothing says luxury travel quite like a trip to the Maldives and it’s little wonder that the A-list seem to flock to these islands on the daily. With stars' social media feeds filled with those perfect beach shots and beautiful backdrops, it's almost impossible not to get wanderlust.

Where to stay: Upon arrival at Male international airport, guests are met and immediately swept directly from the terminal to the boat and whisked to their island resort in as short a time as 30 minutes, regardless of the time of day or the weather conditions. The resorts accessible by speedboat transfer from Male airport are ideal for visitors who want to make the most of their time in paradise since the boats can be scheduled in line with return flights, allowing for maximum time spent paddling in warm crystal waters. What's more, these resorts are closer to the capital city of Male, that may attract travelers seeking a little taste of authentic Maldivian culture.

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Aspen, Colorado, United States

As things cool down, many of the rich and famous head to snowier climes, taking to Aspen’s slopes. This must-ski and must-see spot is popular with famous faces including Mariah Carey, Katy Perry and Leonardo DiCaprio for its glorious mountain vistas. Nestled amongst Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Aspen is home to four ski resorts, with Aspen Mountain, or Ajax as it's often referred to, boasting ski routes straight into Downtown. After celeb-spotting on the slopes, visitors to Aspen can visit the luxury shopping on offer or soak up the local culture at the Aspen Art museum. To mine more information about Aspen’s rich history and its culture, the Aspen Past to Present Historic Tour will explore the area from the Wheeler Opera house to the Mill Street Fountain.

Where to stay: Aspen’s only five-star, five-diamond, ski-in/ski-out hotel The Little Nell is a celebrity favorite. With its luxury amenities, personalized concierge services and its own restaurants serving up wagyu beef five different ways it's easy to understand why this hotel is popular with the A-list. Amongst its luxury touches, visitors can even expect their ski boots to be warmed before heading out to hit the slopes. Each of the hotel’s 92 rooms come with their own roaring fire and bathrooms equipped with heated marble flooring to ensure guests are warm and cozy in this winter wonderland. 

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Goa, India

Goa is the place where celebrity luxury and Indian culture meet, so it’s no wonder Brad Pitt and Matt Damon are such fans. Recommended by Booking.com travelers for its sandy walks and relaxation, travel to the south of India for unspoiled beaches, historic temples and to catch some outstanding wildlife. Travelers can experience the sights and sounds of the city on an Explore Goa in a Nutshell tour including Se Cathedral, Mangeshi Temple and Miramar Beach, finished with a sunset dinner cruise down the Mandovi River. Stay north for the trendy night time scene that has had Goa on the map since the hippies discovered its cool vibe in the 1970s. It’s here travelers will find all the best beach parties. No trip is complete without a visit to the energetic Saturday Night Market, known for its open-air array of goods and food stalls, DJs and cocktails. Visitors can take the glamor of Goa home by perusing the stalls for distinctive jewelry or embellished bedspreads.

Where to stay: Taj Holiday Village Resort & Spa, Goa offers a collection of 142 terracotta-roof suites and villas set in exclusive landscaped gardens. The elegant Indo-Portuguese architecture and premium facilities of this luxury stay is sure to leave guests feeling like they’re living the high-life of the famous. Guests can enjoy a massage in the spa before dining on fresh seafood at The Beach House outdoor dining area. The resort is also a Booking.com Travel Sustainable property with initiatives including investing a percentage of revenue back into community and sustainability projects.

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Kimberley, Australia

Kimberley is one of Australia’s hidden treasures and a secret escape spot for celebrities avoiding the glare of the public. The region’s untamed wilderness and small population makes for the perfect luxury escape with A-Listers such as Tom Cruise, Orlando Bloom and Kylie Minogue having all visited for a holiday away from the paparazzi. Visitors to Kimberley can explore the rugged outback with its gorges and waterfalls, and treat themselves to a trip via seaplane to less accessible areas. With a population of only 40,000 it offers guaranteed peace, quiet and privacy. Kimberley also comes highly recommended by Booking.com travelers for the beautiful sunsets – best experienced by those staying in Broome, Kimberley on a Catamaran Sunset Cruise, an idyllic way to end the day.

Where to stay: Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa is an award winning, luxury accommodation overlooking the iconic Cable Beach in the town of Broome, on Kimberley’s coast. Not only is there a world-class spa and ocean pool, but this club also houses a collection of fine Australian art. The platform the hotel offers to local artists to display their work is one of the contributing eco-initiatives and factors to the stay securing its Booking.com Travel Sustainable badge. Cable Beach Club resort offers a selection of luxury villas, bungalows and apartments to choose from that are designed to offer Broome character and Kimberley style; a fusion of colonial charm and Asian influence.

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Portofino, Italy

This fishing village on the Italian Riviera is the perfect place to taste the celebrity lifestyle, and travelers may even catch a glimpse of one since Madonna and George Clooney are said to be fans of the area. Portofino, recommended by Booking.com travelers for its romantic atmosphere and natural sights, boasts cobbled streets lined with high-end shops, a harbor filled with superyachts and some amazing restaurants in which to taste the locally caught seafood. Hike into the hills to take in the beautiful view of the colorful houses along the coast, then take a swim in some of the most beautiful waters Italy has to offer. 

Where to stay: Set on a leafy green hillside overlooking the yachts in Portofino’s harbor is Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino, a collection of village houses with sixteen rooms and suites. Renowned for its celebrity service this is a must-stay for those hoping to experience luxury at its finest, with rooms that offer panoramic views of the sea and three restaurants serving Ligurian fine-dining cuisine. For the ultimate self-care sessions, guests have access to a saltwater pool and indulgent spa for a botanical massage or manicure. 

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Tulum, Mexico

Mexico has always been a go-to destination for the A-Listers, with Tulum being a favorite for stars such as Cameron Diaz and Reese Witherspoon. It is located between the Mayan Jungle and the Caribbean Sea, an hour south of Cancun. The beautiful beaches, candle lit bars and ancient ruins make for a great spot to find some laid-back luxury. Visitors can start the morning with sunrise yoga before a walk on the white sandy beaches in the afternoon, and then head to a cocktail bar in the jungle ahead of dinner. Those looking to learn more about the country’s rich history can experience a private Tulum Ruins Tour which focuses on the Mayan history and archeology of the area.

Where to stay: Located on South Tulum Beach, Our Habitas Tulumis an eco-resort like no other, with rooms designed to immerse travelers in the ancient landscape and natural surroundings; with natural palapa roofs, canvas walls, outdoor rain showers, and each with more than 500 square feet (152m square) of private space. Luxury touches to this celeb-worthy stay include the private beach and the club house’s yoga and meditation sessions. The on-site restaurant opens out onto the beach and serves food sourced seasonably and locally. As a Booking.com Travel Sustainable property, guests can also enjoy the hotel’s arts, with local artists being offered a platform to display their talents as part of its sustainable initiatives. 

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Tokyo, Japan

The capital of Japan, Tokyo, is a combination of the modern and traditional. The Imperial Palace along with historical temples can be found just a short distance away from luxury shopping streets and modern skyscrapers. The sprawling city can be viewed in all its glory with a Tokyo Skytree Admission Ticket, where from the Tembo Deck visitors can take in the sights from 1,148ft (350m) up. Tokyo attracts the likes of top models such as Bella Hadid with its combination of culture and style, it also has the highest number of Michelin-star restaurants of any city in the world. Visit the Ginza district for high-end designer shopping, boutiques and art galleries before stopping for a cocktail at one of the many hotel bars that offer incredible views of the city.

Where to stay: Park Hyatt Tokyo is not only amazingly located in the city’s center but also offers the chance to stay in luxurious rooms with views of Mount Fuji. Housed in the top 14 floors of a 52-story tower, the hotel offers unparalleled views and unrivaled service, with top class gourmet dining options at this five-star stay. The Park Hyatt is also a Booking.com Travel Sustainable property, making efforts to reduce food waste and removing single-use bottles and stirrers. Guests can enjoy a massage in the hotel spa before heading up to the top floor for a drink in the hotel bar while watching the sunset over the Tokyo skyline. 

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