10 Occasions That Warrant a Five-Star Stay & 10 Times It's Better to Book Affordable Options
10 Occasions That Warrant a Five-Star Stay & 10 Times It's Better to Book Affordable Options
To Splurge or Not to Splurge
Not every trip needs a five-star hotel, of course, but sometimes, the splurge is absolutely worth it. Whether it's a honeymoon, milestone birthday, or a self-care retreat, luxury stays can turn special occasions into unforgettable moments. And yet, there are plenty of times when a budget-friendly room makes far more sense, especially if you’re traveling light, long, or just need a bed for the night. Here are 10 occasions when you'll want to indulge—and 10 times when you'll want to save your money for the experiences instead.
1. Honeymoon
If you're on a honeymoon, you'll definitely want to book a memorable stay to make the occasion special—that is, unless you already have a place in mind that's more dear to both of you, and it's not a five-star accommodation. Otherwise, though, go as big and as lavish as possible!
2. Anniversary
Another occasion where you should definitely be splurging on a five-star stay? Anniversaries, of course! Whether it's your second or 50th anniversary, you'll want to make it special and unforgettable, and that's exactly what a luxurious accommodation will offer.
3. Special Birthday
Is one of your loved ones hitting a milestone birthday? If so, then make sure to book a lavish stay for them to make it all the more unique and like no other. After all, nothing says Happy Birthday like drinking a champagne flute in the rooftop pool of a five-star hotel.
4. Surprise Getaway
Planning a surprise getaway for someone special? Then you'll certainly want to add a five-star stay to the itinerary. It wouldn't be a memorable or impressive trip, after all, if you hosted the getaway at just any hotel you were able to find!
5. Wedding
Getting married halfway across the world? If you’re planning to say “I do” on this trip, it’s the perfect time to splurge on a luxurious stay. Your wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and the right hotel can make the memories even more special. If there’s ever a time not to cut corners, it’s this one.
6. Luxurious City
If you're headed to a luxurious city, like Paris, Singapore, or Dubai, you'll surely want to indulge in a five-star scene. Whether it's admiring the skyline from the streets, your room window, or the rooftop bar, a swanky stay will turn your trip from ordinary to extraordinary.
7. Notable or Historical Accommodation
Headed to a city where history is seeped into the bones of every building you see? When you have the chance to stay in a historical landmark that has hosted royals in the past, you definitely don't want to give that opportunity up.
8. Bucket-List Trip
Finally going on that dream trip to Tokyo, Florence, or Santorini? When you're about to cross off a bucket-list destination, you deserve to stay in a hotel that will make the adventure that much more memorable. That way, your trip of a lifetime really feels like it.
9. Holiday Trip
Going on vacation for the holidays? Whether it's the Fourth of July, Christmas, or New Year's Eve, you'll want to make the trip as magical as possible—and that's where a five-star stay comes in. Just imagine how memorable and sparkly it'll be!
10. Self-Care Retreat
Sometimes, the special occasion is you. After all, you deserve to treat yourself, whether it's to recharge after a stressful season of work or just because you need time to unwind. A luxurious stay at a five-star resort can give you just that.
These are 10 occasions that warrant splurging, but when should you opt for cheaper accommodations? Read on for 10 times it's better to save your money.
1. Long-Term Stay
If you're going to be staying for more than a month in the same city, it's better to choose more affordable stays. For one, booking a five-star hotel for the entirety of your trip would likely go way out of your budget. Booking long-term at a hostel, however, might mean you'll get a discount.
2. Backpacking Trip
Going on a solo backpacking trip? Just as you'll want to choose a more affordable accommodation for long-term stays, you'll also want to go the budget route if you're not planning to stay in one place for long. (Unless, of course, you're up to splurge.)
Presley Roozenburg on Unsplash
3. Budget-Conscious Trips
If you've decided on a budget for your trip, you'll want to stay within your constraints—which probably means not going all out by booking a swanky hotel. Otherwise, a five-star stay will eat right into what you originally allotted for the vacation.
4. Adventure Vacations
If you know you'll be spending most of your time outdoors, whether that means hiking and camping overnight, or moving from place to place, you'll definitely want to stick to more affordable accommodations. After all, adventure vacations are just for that—adventures!
5. Group Trips with Friends
You might think it'd be a good time to splurge on a five-star stay when going on group trips with friends, but unless you're all willing to split the cost (despite being in separate rooms), it's probably not worth the hassle. Focus on spending time together, not on where you're staying.
6. Overnight Layovers
Need to stay somewhere overnight due to a red-eye layover? Well, for one, you'll likely want to stick close to the airport. You'll also probably want to choose cheaper stays—you're not going to be in the city for long, anyway.
7. Short Event Travel
Heading to a company event, conference, or festival? If your trip is going to be fairly short, don't bother booking a luxurious stay—unless, of course, it's included and booked for you at no extra cost. Otherwise, stick to something more affordable.
8. Road Trips
Stopping at a midpoint during a road trip? While you probably don't want to stay at a shady motel off the side of the road, you don't want to go all out and find a luxurious stay, either. Choose a happy middle; you'll be up and out of there by morning, anyway.
9. Weekend Getaways
You might think a weekend getaway warrants a nice stay, and if you're up for splurging on a two-day trip, go right ahead. But we think it's best to stick to something more affordable; that way, you're not spending all your money on the hotel and not the trip itself.
10. For the Experience, Not the Stay
For any trip that's more for the experience and not the stay—or special occasion—itself, we recommend choosing an affordable accommodation. Save your money for the things that matter: the food, the atmosphere, and the things you won't get anywhere else.
