#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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7. Private Diamond & Gemstone Experience in South Africa

South Africa’s storied history of diamond mining is one of the most famous in the world, producing both the crown jewels and 5 of the 10 largest diamonds in history. Truly dazzling, a private, hands-on experience at the premier diamond and tanzanite wholesaler in South Africa is spellbinding. Only open to very select guests, this grants unheard-of access for travelers to adorn themselves with some of the rarest gems in the world. Exceptional hospitality accompanies this experience, escorting you into an elegant viewing room where an expert gemologist will bring out a vast array of finished pieces and standalone diamonds, gemstones and tanzanite to test drive. For the ultimate lavish memento, you can design a custom piece to be hand-crafted by an expert team, delivered to you within days of purchase. Originally a private family retreat, Chitwa is a sleek hidden lodge who earned its name as ode to the aging giraffe, a member of their extended family. Right in the heart of South Africa’s bush, this unique destination is a near-perfect hub of wildlife and a center of relaxation and luxury.

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South Africa diamond and lodge experience, price upon request.

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