Traveling internationally for the first time is exciting and thrilling. Every experience is brand new as you venture outside of the United States. There are fresh faces to encounter, new cultural experiences, and a world of amazing opportunities abroad. However, for some travelers, international vacations are their first dose of luxury travel moments.

Luxury travel has been trending online for a few years. While some folks stick to budget and frugal travel, others are looking for opulence and luxury on international shores. However, venturing abroad can be tricky for first-time international travelers. If you’re considering your first international vacation, check out these standout luxury destinations perfect for first-timers.

Costa Rica

black family on the beach laughing with baby — Photo credit: Lawrence Crayton

The Caribbean is no stranger to new tourists and Costa Rica is no exception. Every year, thousands of tourists come here from all over the world. It’s a hotspot for new travelers, making it a perfect destination for your first adventures abroad. Costa Rica has a variety of luxuries rooted in the magic of its natural landscapes. Travelers will find resorts with a ton of luxury amenities from thermal hot spring baths to all-inclusive beachside resorts. Many of Costa Rica’s luxury accommodations come with spectacular views of the country’s terrain. Some traveler favorites include the Casa Chameleon, the Four Seasons Costa Rica, and the ArtVillas.

The Maldives

Villas over the water in the Maldives — Photo credit: Asad Photo Maldives

Stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and luxury are just a few words that describe the Maldives. Luxury in the Maldives is closely tied to the Southeast Asian country’s beauty. Tourists can’t get enough of the country with the Maldives landing as one of the world’s leading travel destinations for four consecutive years. The archipelago has become known for luxury travel among tourists. Travelers visiting the Maldives enjoy every drop of luxury they can squeeze from the country. The Maldives is a dream come true for luxury travelers. With underwater spa treatments to picnics on secluded sandbanks, the luxury opportunities are neverending.

Montenegro

view of Kotor's Bay In Montenegro — Photo credit: olga brajnovic

Montenegro has blossomed into a hotspot for luxury travelers visiting Europe. The rich and the famous park their yachts in its bays. Its streets are full of luxury shops, boutiques, and cafes that are easy to navigate for first-time international travelers. Montenegro is full of art, design, and culture. The boutique hotels are swanky and chic and travelers can tap into luxury at some of the country’s best hotels including the villas at Portonovi and Iberostar Bellevue.

Cabo

beachside cabana — Photo credit: Christian Lambert

Cabo is another favorite vacation spot for Black travelers. The Mexican destination is perfect for first-timers who don’t want to venture too far from home. One of the best things about Cabo is the multitude of all-inclusive luxury resorts. Travelers will find a little bit of everything depending on the type of luxury experience they desire. There are adult-only resorts with personal butler service, nature-forward properties with private villas, and even resorts catering to luxury for the entire family.

Bali

Bali Handara Gate — Photo credit: Oleksandr P

Like the rest of the destinations on this list, Bali is no stranger to first-time tourists. The country is friendly and welcoming with an abundance of luxury accommodations, experiences, and excursions. Travelers love Bali for its raw and authentic beauty. The luxury in Bali is connected to nature and its radiant culture. The luxury accommodations here are available at lower rates and the excursions are endless. From bathing in tropical flowers and exploring rice fields to meditating outside of Buddhist temples, Bali is a luxury travel experience rooted in wellness and relaxation.

loc:country:Montenegro