Trips That’ll Cost You
Traveling to some of the world’s priciest destinations can feel like both a thrill and a wallet workout. But for many, the experiences—the stunning views, vibrant cultures, world-class attractions—are absolutely worth it. Ready for a luxe armchair tour? Let’s go!
New York City, NY
The iconic skyline, Central Park strolls, world-renowned museums like MoMA and the Met, and the frenetic energy of Times Square—New York has it all. From Broadway shows to trendy neighborhoods like Brooklyn and the seemingly magical food scene, there’s never a dull moment.
King of Hearts, Wikimedia Commons
New York City, NY—The Costs
New York City is expensive simply because it can get away with it. Accommodation, dining, and attractions all come with premium price tags—think hotel stays often ranging from$300/night upward, meals at top-tier restaurants easily hitting$50–100 per person, and entertainment or tours adding significantly more.
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco charms with iconic sights like the Golden Gate Bridge, cozy neighborhoods such as Nob Hill and Japantown, the quirky twist of Lombard Street, and a world-renowned food culture. It also pulses at the heart of tech innovation with sci-fi-like glimpses into the future (hello, self-driving cars!). Whether you're window-shopping in vintage spots or sampling international cuisine, there's a unique blend of culture, history, and modernity.
Guillaume Paumier, Wikimedia Commons
San Francisco, CA—The Costs
Once the most expensive city in the US, San Francisco remains pricey because of the region’s high cost of living and wealth-driven pricing bubble. Expect hotels to run$250–400/night, meals US$30–60 per person, and public transport or rideshares to stack up fast.
King of Hearts, Wikimedia Commons
Banff National Park, Canada
Turquoise lakes like Lake Louise and Peyto, snow-capped peaks, glaciers, cozy alpine towns, and sweeping vistas—Banff is nature’s masterpiece. Hiking, canoeing, or simply gazing at those sunsets takes your breath away (in a good way). Whether you’re an adventure junkie or just there for the views, Banff delivers serenity and awe.
Dietmar Rabich, Wikimedia Commons
Banff National Park, Canada—The Costs
Surging popularity (thanks in part to social media), isolation, and a limited supply of hotels drive up prices in Banff. Lodging can rival that of European capitals. Hotel rates often start at CAD 200–300/night (you may still be paying more), meals run ~CAD 25–40 per person, and guided tours or rentals add even more.
Tobias Alt, Tobi 87, Wikimedia Commons
Vancouver, Canada
Surrounded by water and forests, Vancouver blends urban sophistication with natural beauty. Its vibrant Asian fusion food scene reflects its cultural connection to Asia, and outdoor adventures—like the Grouse Grind hike or spotting local wildlife—are never far away. It’s a city that lets you walk to the sea or the mountains, often in the same day.
Peter Vanderheyden from Toronto, Canada, Wikimedia Commons
Vancouver, Canada—The Costs
Real estate inflation, foreign investment, and a robust economy push living costs high in Vancouver. Hotels regularly cost CAD 200–350/night, dining CAD 20–50 per meal, and activities (like scenic hikes or wildlife tours) add more. Tip: using travel points and opting for modest lodging can help.
Dietmar Rabich, Wikimedia Commons
Dubai, UAE
Glitzy skyscrapers like the Burj Khalifa, luxury shopping malls, desert safaris, indoor ski slopes, and mesmerizing mosques—Dubai is larger-than-life. Add in the surreal contrast of a desert city shimmering with modern indulgence, and you've got a destination designed to awe.
Dubai, UAE—The Costs
Drinks are pricey due to licensing laws, and high-end services are the norm. Expect luxury hotels starting at US$300–600/night, meals from US$40+ at decent restaurants, and viscerally expensive experiences like helicopter rides or dune tours adding hundreds more.
Stefano Vigorelli, Wikimedia Commons
The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Blue-footed boobies, giant tortoises, volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear snorkel waters, and unique flora and fauna make the Galápagos a natural wonder. Wherever you turn, it’s like stepping into a living museum shaped by evolution, and every island offers a novel wildlife encounter.
Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador—The Costs
High costs here are due to sustainability efforts, logistics, and remoteness. Most travels rely on packaged tours, which bundle flights, lodging, guided excursions, and meals. These packages typically run between US$1,000 and US$6,000 per person, making the Galápagos one of the more costly destinations in South America.
Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Iceland
Think otherworldly landscapes—geysers, glaciers, volcanic coastlines, Northern Lights, cascading waterfalls—plus unique adventure experiences like glacier hikes and hot spring dips. Rugged, raw beauty defined in every direction.
Jakub Hałun, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Iceland—The Costs
As an island nation in Scandinavia, everything from groceries to gas is imported and expensive, and the region’s high cost of living compounds the impact. A side salad can cost US$30; expect hotels from US$200–350/night, meals at US$25–60, and car rentals or tours adding significantly—though the experiences are unforgettable.
Jakub Hałun, Wikimedia Commons
Switzerland
Alpine vistas, pristine lakes, charming towns like Zurich and Lucerne, impeccable public transportation, and gourmet chocolate abound. Switzerland offers a blend of scenic tranquility, precision-engineered experiences, and unmatched views—straight out of a painting.
Switzerland—The Costs
High wages and living standards drive up virtually everything tourists spend on—from hotels to meals ($10–15 even for fast food). Expect lodging to start around US$150/night (often more), meals US$20–40 in casual spots, and transportation between towns or mountain excursions to add generously.
Norway
Dramatic fjords, Arctic tundra, scenic hikes like Trolltunga, midnight sun and the Northern Lights—Norway’s landscapes are breathtakingly diverse. Whether exploring fjords by boat or trekking remote trails, the country’s beauty never disappoints.
Robin Stumm, Wikimedia Commons
Norway—The Costs
High labor costs and Scandinavian standards drive up daily expenses—meals at "cheap" restaurants cost US$15–20. Hotels run US$150–300/night, and daily spending easily exceeds US$100 when transport and activities are factored in. Many travelers offset this with prepared meals or grocery shopping.
Denmark
Copenhagen’s historic boats, colorful Nyhavn harbor, sleek Scandinavian design, cozy bakeries, and a relaxed yet vibrant cultural vibe make Denmark charming and elegant. It blends urban style with joyful livability.
Raphael Andres, Wikimedia Commons
Denmark—The Costs
High salaries and taxes mean prices across the board are steep—food, transport, and services cost more, though not as high as NYC. Budget dinners can cost up to US$30 per person, fast food about US$20. Hotels are somewhat less than NYC, but still not cheap. Bakeries and casual dining spots are good budget hacks.
wanghongliu, Wikimedia Commons
Singapore
Futuristic architecture (think Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay), world-class street food, multicultural vibrancy, green spaces, and a highly walkable downtown—Singapore feels like a hypermodern melting pot with order and style.
Singapore—The Costs
Sticker shock is real: US$25 cover gets one drink, taxis run high (a ride costing US$40 isn’t unheard of), and store-bought drinks can hit US$7. Hotels often start at US$200+, meals range from US$10–30 depending on venue, and entrance fees to attractions add to the total. Staying in B&Bs in neighborhoods and eating at hawker centers can help manage costs.
Basile Morin, Wikimedia Commons
Japan
Ancient temples and shrines, futuristic cityscapes, exquisite cuisine (from sushi to convenience-store delights), traditional gardens, and ultra-efficient transport. Whether it’s neon-lit Tokyo or peaceful Kyoto, Japan is detail-rich and endlessly fascinating.
Japan—The Costs
Space-efficient accommodations in cities are small but neat, and with a weaker yen, you’ll face higher costs. Hotels and Airbnbs can cost US$100–250/night, meals vary—convenience store food can be affordable (~US$5–10) but restaurants run US$20–50. The experience, however, is an immersive delight.
Luke Ma from Taipei, Taiwan ROC, Wikimedia Commons
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a splash-out holiday, these ten destinations deliver unforgettable experiences—at a cost. But knowing what drives the high prices (whether it's luxury, isolation, strong economies, or logistical hurdles) helps you plan smarter. Consider off-season visits, local dining, and budget lodging options to strike that balance between awesome and affordable.
Chell Hill, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
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