Listen—I love a luxury hotel. Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons? Count me in. But I also know that not every trip needs the full resort price tag to feel elevated. Some of my best experiences have come from finding that sweet spot: creating a soft, beautiful trip that still feels indulgent without blowing the budget.
Here’s how I travel luxe—but smart:
Airbnb Over Hotels (Sometimes)
While I love a good hotel, I’ve had amazing stays through Airbnb—especially in places like Grand Cayman or Cartagena. Rentals often give you more space, privacy, and kitchen access (perfect for a private chef night). Bonus? Many offer beach access or balconies with views for half the price of a beachfront resort.
Tip: Always check reviews and look for hosts with clear, responsive communication.
Private Chef > Dining Out Every Night
Instead of eating out at every meal, I book a private chef for one or two nights. It feels ultra-luxe, the food is customized, and you can stay in pajamas. I’ve used services like Roman Private Chef in Grand Cayman, and they handled everything—from cooking to setting the table.
Pack Products That Feel Expensive
Luxury is a feeling, and skincare plays a big part in mine. I always pack TSA-friendly minis of my favorite products: U Beauty, Rhode, SK-II Essence, Shiseido Eye Cream. They take up no space but make me feel pampered.
It’s the little rituals—morning eye patches, mid-flight mist, night cream after the sun—that reset me.
Pack Products That Feel Expensive
Luxury is a feeling, and skincare plays a big part in mine. I always pack TSA-friendly minis of my favorite products: U Beauty, Rhode, SK-II Essence, Shiseido Eye Cream. They take up no space but make me feel pampered.
It’s the little rituals—morning eye patches, mid-flight mist, night cream after the sun—that reset me.
Splurge with Intention
One thoughtful splurge > five random ones. I don’t need five-star everything. I’d rather have one incredible dinner (like Fish Night at Seafire in Grand Cayman) than spend money on overpriced drinks every day.
I pick one activity or meal to go all in on, then keep the rest relaxed and intentional.
Glow-For-Less Beauty Swaps
Elevated doesn’t have to mean expensive. Some of my favorite high/low combos:
- Stick SPF: Shiseido over Supergoop for value + performance
- Mad Hippie Vitamin C instead of a $100 serum—it holds up
- Summer Fridays Lip Balm gives that luxury feel without the markup
I’ll also decant my faves into pretty little travel bottles—because aesthetic matters.
Final Thought
Soft luxury doesn’t mean splurging on every detail. It’s about intentional comfort, curated moments, and making space to actually enjoy the trip.
With the right pieces and mindset, you can glow on a budget.
XO Selina
