Tom Marchant is the co-founder of luxury travel company and trip planner, Black Tomato, which delivers luxe experiences around the world via inspiring itineraries and access to the globe's up-and-coming, remote destinations. Marchant's finger on the pulse of travel trends and the world's best in hotels, restaurants, destinations and honeymoons is unique and incomparable–and he's sharing his expertise and curated lists of where to visit, stay, eat and more with BAZAAR.com.
When you think of the world’s most lavish experiences, it’s no doubt that mega yachts, private transfers and traditional decadence immediately come to mind—but we'd argue that true luxury is instead defined by the exclusive access to some of the world’s most prized gems. The ultimate in luxury entails experiences so transformative that you cannot help but to leave them a changed person. From the far flung, remote Himalayas to the Rococo splendor of Paris, true luxury takes you to new heights, granting unheard-of insight into new perspectives, cultures, landscapes, cuisine and, even, landmarks. Whether it’s inhaling crisp mountain air in Canada at a luxurious camp set up 4,500 feet above sea level, or exploring the Komodo Islands in an antique, iconic yacht, these incredible experiences all offer a unifying theme: once in a lifetime. Here, the most lavish experiences worth planning the world over.
11. The Opéra Garnier Like You’ve Never Seen It Before
The enchanting, storied atmosphere of the Opera Garnier hosts expert dancers who perform regularly before thousands of spectators, but its secret history is rarely revealed. This magical experience grants unheard of access into French opera, with a privately guided backstage tour that reveals fascinating insight into the Opera’s history, stemming from its inception in 1870 during the reign of Napoleon III. Explore the bowels of the grand auditorium, traversing the very foundations of the monument where you’ll see the famed water tank, the origin of many popular legends and lore. Then there’s the rare opportunity to discover the Capstans room, exploring the heart of the machinery of a 19th century Parisian theatre that still operates in all its glory. The most momentous part of this experience involves settling in to the dancers’ favorite halls located behind the stage, in an area considered its “antechamber,” the Foyer de la Danse. This room strikes a deep and long-lasting impression with its splendor, history and lavish display of paintings that very few will ever have access to. Once the meeting place for select members of Parisian high society who wanted to approach the artists of the Opera, the hall still hosts the dancers of the Ballet for their warm-up before the show. The most inspiring crescendo? A private ballet performance and champagne reception to follow.
Paris opera and ballet experience, prices from $2,673 per couple.
