#TheList: The World’s Most Extravagant Experiences–And Why They’re Worth It

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.

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12. Spirited Away in Indonesia

Nothing is more exclusive than inside access to some of the world’s closed-off, wondrous spiritual centers, and this trek will have you dine at the spiritual and ancient holy Dalem Segara Temple. A personal butler will serve up a truly lavish and private gourmet feast prepared by a renowned Balinese Chef. After dessert, get spirited away and release a paper lantern that takes your wishes high above into the night sky. Afterwards, experience a rare purification ritual at the sacred spring where a local Mangku (Balinese priest) will chant prayers to cleanse your soul and restore your spirit.

Indonesia experience, price upon request.

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