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.
14. Fly Over The Great Wall of China
Starting at the sea and stretching more than one thousand miles to the desert frontiers of China’s west, the Great Wall is a lasting symbol of China’s imperial prowess. Built over the course of two millennia, it is actually a series of defensive walls erected to protect China’s heartland and remains a monument to the ingenuity and determination of imperial China. On this magical experience, travelers can explore the Great Wall of China in a luxurious and private way. Travellers will soar by helicopter over the wall, before landing and enjoying a fabulous dining experience on the Great Wall at sunset, with a leading expert in Great Wall conservation as your guest of honor. On top of a preserved Great Wall turret, you will find a 3-course dinner waiting for you, complete with champagne or a glass of Beijing’s erguotou baijiu if you’re feeling adventurous. As you watch the sun go down, listen to your on-site expert share stories of the wall’s fascinating history, and learn about his lifelong mission to protect this incredible wonder of the world.
Great Wall of China experience, prices from $3,400 per couple.
