Some of the most exclusive resorts in the world are tucked away on remote islands and atolls like the Maldives, Hawaii and Fiji. Celebrities have long holed up in lush resorts on islands to soak in the sun. If flying to the Maldives or Fiji isn't in your time frame, skip the tourist areas of Hawaii and head towards Wailea in Maui or the Kona-Kohala Coast on the Big Island. On islands, the further from the airport, the more exclusive your accommodations. For a true VIP getaway, reserve an oceanview suite or cabana.
Anyone can feel like a VIP in Vegas, but to truly get the full experience, choose one of the multi-room, and sometimes multi-level, suites at the hotels along the strip. The fully stocked top-tier suites come with 24-hour butler service and VIP access to clubs, space to throw a party, reserved seating at shows and lounge access. Check out the "boutique" wings at some of the larger hotels like the MGM Grand and Venetian for extra VIP attention. Hard Rock Hotel and the Palms may be slightly off the strip, but both offer memorable theme rooms complete with bowling lanes and party space. Don't forget to reserve a private cabana if you plan to relax poolside during your getaway. Even if you don't splurge on a suite, skip the lines at the club by having the concierge arrange VIP entry.
With the long line for buffets and daily Bingo games, a cruise is not exactly glamorous. It's time to upgrade! Choose an all-inclusive cruise line or select a room in the adults-only VIP area some cruise lines offer. These suites not only offer more space and lavish amenities, but provide access to private pools and private dining rooms. Look for spa, garden or villa suites for true VIP status on a cruise. If you want to skip the big ships, consider chartering a private yacht to island hop.
Green fees can add up quick, if you can even get a tee time. Instead of hitting the course at off hours, walk on like a VIP by booking a golf package with the course's hotel. At some courses, this may be the only chance you'll have to enjoy the links without joining the PGA tour. For the best treatment, select a suite or course-side villa. Guests of the Lodge at Torrey Pines in San Diego can take advantage of the exclusive guaranteed tee time program, along with club storage and cleaning. If you plan ahead, you can experience one of the five legendary Pebble Beach Golf Courses by staying at The Lodge at Pebble Beach, The Inn at Spanish Bay or Casa Palmero, which offer special booking privileges for golf reservations. Tee times may be booked up to 18 months in advance with a hotel reservation. If your dream course doesn't have its own hotel, look at nearby resorts that partner with the course.
If you forgot to book your table months in advance for the top restaurants on your getaway, just ask the concierge. Most high end restaurants will save a table or two for their favorite concierges. While you can ask on arrival, sending an email a few days in advance will help get you a better seating time. If your hotel doesn't have a concierge or similar, it's time to upgrade. A true VIP getaway requires a bit of help from knowledgeable hotel staff.
Start your VIP travel getaway off right by chartering a private plane. For years, booking a private jet on short notice required a membership, but now brokerage companies offer the same VIP treatment without the costly membership fee. You'll need to book your flight at least four hours in advance in most cases, but can save some cash if you book in advance.
If you can't swing a private jet, don't let flying coach stress you out. Arrive a few hours early and purchase entry into the lounge for your airline. Depending on the airline, you may need to be a member of its frequent flier program or hold a specific credit card (platinum cards always help). Entry fees range from $25 to $100 per person for a one day pass into the lounge. The VIP amenities include free drinks, snacks, and Internet access. When flying abroad, arrivals lounges offer hot showers. If you travel frequently, consider purchasing a Priority Pass, which offers lounge access at more than 600 airports.
