#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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5. La Dolce Vita in Lake Como

Home to palatial villas, jaw-dropping vistas and George Clooney, Lake Como is about as exclusive it gets. Cruising along the winding roads in a classic Alfa Romeo Duetto Spider or sailing over sun-dappled waters on board a Venetian Lancia Ruy, it never fails to take your breath away. For added drama, stop off at the charming Villa Balbianello, where the stunning location makes it easy to see why James Bond came calling. But nowhere compares to Villa Sola–and BAZAAR knows it best, after just heading there ourselvesfor a fashion photoshoot. Just down the road and a short boat ride from the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, this ornate 16th century villa is one of the area’s best-kept secrets. Score exclusive access to the beautiful gardens and take a stroll in complete privacy, discovering the secrets and splendor of the villa—and the extravagant dukes and duchesses that haunted its parlors, before sitting down for a delicious Italian coursed-dinner overlooking the lake.

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Lake Como experience, price upon request.

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