For too long we have imagined five-star accommodation to be accessible only to an elite few who like to throw their cash around like a hacky sack, but no longer. If you know where to look, you’ll find a number of fancy, yet affordable stays located all around the world. Here are seven luxury hotels that cost less than you’d think.
Amari Watergate Bangkok, Thailand
While hustling, bustling Bangkok may not seem to suit its title, ‘The City of Angels’ at first glance, there are private and relaxing getaways nestled in its heart that offer a slice of heaven. Amari Watergate Bangkok is a five-star hotel located in the middle of the central Pratunam district, an area renowned for its street markets and malls. It has a bar, fitness centre, wifi, air conditioning and most importantly, a pool, and spa services.
Rooms from $149 a night.
INAYA Putri Bali Resort, Indonesia
Sorry, did someone just scream luxury? This five-star resort is located right on the white sand and crystal blue waters of Nusa Dua. With a focus on luxury and wellness, INAYA Putri Bali Resort is equipped with spa services, swimming pools, a bar, and much more, in what could be the perfect place for a getaway – especially if you like a combination of luxury and sublime strolls along beautiful beaches.
Rooms from $120 a night.
Hotel Borg, Reykjavik, Iceland
Anyone who has been to Iceland can vouch that it is wildly stunning and generally mind blowing, but also jaw-droppingly expensive. Even small guesthouses or Airbnb’s threaten to blow the budget, so it puts into perspective just how reasonably priced Hotel Borg really is. It has an Art Deco charm, is located centrally and offers exclusive Northern Lights packages. Its spa also offers a steam bath, sauna, hot tub, relaxation area and fitness room.
Rooms from $179 a night.
Borei Angkor Resort & Spa, Siem Reap, Cambodia
From seeing the sun rise over ancient temples to a bustling night life and total relaxation, Siem Reap is a city that has it all. What a better way to enjoy your stay there than to return from your busy days exploring to a luxury hotel and first-class spa services. Borei Angkor Resort & Spa is a five-star hotel just 800m from the city centre. This luxury hotel offers 24-hour room service, restaurant, gym classes, wheelchair accessibility, an outdoor swimming pool and even a hairdresser.
Rooms from $156 a night.
Graffit Design Hotel, Varna, Bulgaria
Located on the coast of the Black Sea, this hotel is a combination of class, modern design and elegant furnishings. It’s a short walk both to the beach and into central Varna, where sights such as the Cathedral Dome, Museum and Roman baths can be found. The hotel features all the expected perks of a luxury stay and has won a number of awards over the years, ranking highly on the international scale as one of the best stays for solo travellers.
Rooms from $101 a night.
Stikliai Hotel and Restaurant, Vilnius, Lithuania
This stunning and unique hotel is located near all the great sights in Vilnius and combines absolute luxury with a homely comfort to ensure you relax straight away. It has all the essentials including a pool, spa services, airport transfer, fitness centre and more.
Rooms from $142 a night.
Malak Regency Hotel, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Welcome to the Malak Regency Hotel. It offers an airport shuttle, fitness centre, terraces, indoor pool, all the facilities you’d expect at a five-star hotel, as well as a free buffet breakfast that may be one of the world’s best. It’s a little out of town, so you may need to drive to some of the local sights, but there’s free parking, and the slightly removed location is ideal for those wanting to relax.
Rooms from $141 a night.
Would you visit any of these five-star getaways? Do you know any luxe for less hotels we’ve missed?
Related articles:
Airbnb – great until it’s not
When to book flights and save
First class travel cheats
