When you think of deserts, what comes to mind? Endless space of nothing but annoying sand and heat? Think again! Deserts have become the most exotic and luxurious travel destinations globally. Read on for our top 5 desert destinations to visit.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai = luxury - and at one point, it seemed like every man and his dog was going to Dubai. The somewhat mysterious and definitely luxurious Arabian Desert, just behind the shiny skyscrapers of the city, is one of the best you'll visit.
Imagine taking private desert safaris on a 4x4 SUV (everyone does) and exploring dunes, followed by an evening banquet at a hidden desert camp! It's one of the most serene things you'll do without being on a beach. The openness of the desert is as calming as no other space can be. In the quest for ultimate relaxation? Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa offers exclusivity with secluded plunge pools, camel rides at sunset, and an unparalleled view of the barren land.
The city itself is nothing short of incredible - it takes modern architecture to another level. Are you even in Dubai if you don't go to the Burj Khalifa? And don't get us started on the shopping malls.
The Mojave Desert, Nevada
How could we put together a list of luxurious desserts without mentioning the Mojave, home to the infamous ‘sin city’ itself: Las Vegas. For decades, this pocket of lights, music, slots, and celebrities has represented one of the most popular destinations for holidaymakers and star-studded jetsetters alike, whether they’re there for the reels, the Cirque du Soleil, the buffets or the Presley impressions.
Las Vegas is the epitome of luxury. It is the ideal, the source, and the inspiration for many brands in certain industries. Take, for instance, the iGaming sector. Las Vegas, as the home of casinos, cannot be ignored. The velvet tabletops, the decedent chandeliers, and the hospitable workers have all been replicated in an online environment by iGaming platforms and brands across the world. Whether a player is signing into a poker room in Brazil or bingo rooms in the UK, the touchstones of Las Vegas’s aesthetics and vibe are tangible.
It’s no surprise that holidaymakers look to Las Vegas for that high-roller getaway.
Scottsdale, Arizona
Located within the Sonoran Desert's heartland is Scottsdale, it's the epitome of beauty in the American Southwest region.
Scottsdale has a beautiful desert and high-end resorts blending natural beauty and luxury. It is home to some of the finest spa resorts in America, like Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort, Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale, and more. Indulge in treatments and enjoy dips in infinity pools overlooking saguaro-dotted scenes.
Beyond hotels' walls, there are many outdoor activities if that's your thing. Strolling through McDowell Sonoran Reserve is one of the best things to do.
Sahara Desert, Morocco
For centuries, the Sahara desert, with its vast dunes and breathtaking sunsets, has been the dream destination for many travellers. Experiencing the Sahara in style is a rather new development, and it should not be overlooked. One of the coolest ways to experience the Sahara's luxury is by staying in one of the high-end desert camps, like the Scarabeo Camp or White Camel Lodge. These are the best places where Berber culture blends with modernity: ample tents, delicatessen meals, and guided camel trips on the sand.
And don't miss out on Morocco’s rich culture and history. Spend your days exploring ancient kasbahs and vibrant souks, or take an exclusive tour of Ait Benhaddou, listed under UNESCO heritage sites.
Atacama Desert, Chile
The Atacama Desert is one of the driest parts of the earth - we've made it sound good, haven't we? Despite being one of the driest places on earth, it's one of the most amazing. And depending on where you live and how wet your country is, the drier, the better. It's known for its otherworldly feel and clear skies. The Atacama has become a haven for luxury travellers looking for a vacation that combines excitement and serenity.
The main attraction in the Atacama region is not found on the ground but in the beautiful night sky. The lack of light pollution makes the Atacama Desert one of the finest spots to look at stars across all continents on Earth. Many high-end lodges have personal astronomy guides who take guests on trips to enjoy state-of-the-art telescopes pointing at the Milky Way.
Deserts are notorious for being harsh - but hopefully, we've convinced you there are a few diamonds in the rough. The question is, which desert would you visit?
Comments