Indonesia Emerges as the World’s Leading Affordable Luxury Holiday Destination, Outshining the Maldives and Mauritius in Southeast Asia

Published on December 14, 2025

In recent years, global travel trends have increasingly reflected a desire for experiences that balance indulgence with value, and this shift has been clearly highlighted by the growing recognition of Indonesia as a premier choice for upscale yet cost-effective travel. Traditionally, destinations such as the Maldives and Mauritius have dominated the imagination of travellers seeking refined luxury surrounded by pristine natural beauty. However, a broader analysis of affordability, infrastructure and experiential richness has positioned Indonesia as a compelling alternative within the international tourism landscape. Its vast archipelago, diverse cultures and established hospitality sector have collectively contributed to its rising reputation among honeymooners, leisure travellers and wellness seekers alike. According to recent research reported by the Daily Mail and conducted by fashion brand AbayaButh, Indonesia has been identified as the world’s best destination for affordable luxury holidays. This conclusion was reached through a comprehensive comparison of popular honeymoon and leisure destinations, assessing factors such as five-star hotels, luxury resorts, private pools, spa quality and flight costs. With an impressive range of high-end amenities offered at comparatively accessible prices, Indonesia has redefined expectations of luxury travel, positioning itself as a destination where comfort, elegance and cultural depth coexist with financial practicality.

Indonesia Redefined as a Global Luxury Value Leader

The global tourism industry has witnessed a notable shift in how luxury is perceived and consumed. Rather than being defined solely by exclusivity and high expenditure, luxury has increasingly been associated with meaningful experiences, quality services and thoughtful design. Within this evolving framework, Indonesia has been consistently recognised for offering an exceptional balance between sophistication and affordability. The country’s islands have been positioned as destinations where premium travel experiences are made accessible without compromising on comfort or refinement. This recognition has reinforced Indonesia’s growing appeal among international travellers seeking indulgence without excessive costs.

Research Framework Behind the Ranking

The study conducted by AbayaButh examined 30 popular honeymoon and leisure destinations worldwide, with a focus on measurable factors relevant to luxury travel. These included average flight prices, five-star hotel rates, the number of luxury resorts, spa quality, and access to private pools and villas. Each destination was evaluated through a comparative lens to determine where high-end experiences were most attainable. Within this analysis, Indonesia emerged at the top due to its strong performance across all key indicators. Its hospitality infrastructure and competitive pricing collectively contributed to its leading position in the global ranking.

Accommodation Excellence at Accessible Prices

One of the most decisive factors in Indonesia’s top ranking has been the cost of luxury accommodation. Five-star hotels in Indonesia have been reported to average 396 pounds per night, which translates to approximately Rs 48,000. In contrast, comparable luxury stays in the Maldives have averaged 937 pounds per night, or around Rs 1 lakh, while Bermuda has recorded average rates of 537 pounds per night, or approximately Rs 65,000. These comparisons have highlighted the significant value advantage offered by Indonesia, particularly for travellers seeking extended stays in premium environments.

Abundance of Luxury Resorts and Private Villas

Indonesia’s hospitality sector has been distinguished by its scale and diversity. The country has been reported to host 177 luxury resorts, alongside 538 hotels offering private pools. This extensive inventory has allowed travellers to choose from a wide range of settings, including beachfront retreats, jungle hideaways and cliffside villas. Such variety has ensured that luxury travel in Indonesia is not limited to a single aesthetic or experience, but instead caters to varied preferences and travel styles.

Five-Star Spas and Wellness Experiences

Wellness tourism has become an integral component of luxury travel, and Indonesia has been strongly positioned within this segment. The presence of 673 five-star spas across the country has underscored its reputation as a wellness-focused destination. These establishments have been integrated into resorts and hotels, offering treatments inspired by local traditions and natural ingredients. The emphasis on holistic relaxation has further enhanced Indonesia’s appeal among travellers seeking rejuvenation alongside leisure.

Competitive Long-Haul Flight Costs

In addition to accommodation and amenities, flight affordability has played a crucial role in Indonesia’s recognition. Long-haul premium economy flights to Indonesia have been identified as significantly cheaper than those to comparable luxury destinations. In some cases, flights to alternative island destinations have been reported to cost three to four times more. This relative affordability has made Indonesia more accessible to travellers from Europe and other long-haul markets, further strengthening its position as a value-driven luxury destination.

Comparison With Traditional Luxury Destinations

Destinations such as the Maldives and Mauritius have long been associated with luxury travel, particularly for honeymooners. Their reputation has been built on exclusivity, overwater villas and secluded island settings. However, the high costs associated with these destinations have increasingly limited their accessibility. Indonesia, by contrast, has been positioned as offering similar levels of natural beauty and hospitality at a more attainable price point. This comparison has played a central role in reshaping traveller perceptions of luxury within the global tourism market.

Cultural Depth Enhancing the Travel Experience

Beyond measurable luxury indicators, Indonesia’s cultural richness has been identified as a defining strength. The country’s traditions, arts, cuisine and spiritual heritage have added depth to the travel experience, elevating it beyond material indulgence. This cultural dimension has allowed luxury travel in Indonesia to be framed as immersive and meaningful, aligning with contemporary traveller values that prioritise authenticity alongside comfort.

Bali as a Key Gateway for International Travellers

Within Indonesia, Bali has continued to serve as a major gateway for international tourism. Its established infrastructure, global connectivity and reputation for hospitality have reinforced its role as a leading entry point for luxury travellers. The island’s combination of beaches, wellness retreats and cultural landmarks has been central to Indonesia’s overall tourism appeal.

Travel Update for Bali Visitors

For travellers arriving in Bali, updated entry procedures have been implemented to streamline the arrival process. All international arrivals at Ngurah Rai International Airport are required to complete an All Indonesia declaration card online. This free digital form has been designed to consolidate health, customs, immigration and quarantine declarations into a single process. Submission has been mandated up to three days before arrival, ensuring smoother entry and improved efficiency at the airport.

Indonesia’s Strategic Position in Global Tourism

Indonesia’s recognition as the world’s best destination for affordable luxury holidays has reflected broader trends in global tourism. As travellers increasingly seek destinations that offer value, sustainability and diversity, Indonesia has been well positioned to meet these expectations. Its extensive hospitality infrastructure, combined with competitive pricing and cultural richness, has allowed it to stand out within a crowded international market.

Redefining the Meaning of Affordable Luxury

The concept of affordable luxury has been redefined through Indonesia’s example. Luxury has been demonstrated not merely through high costs, but through quality, experience and accessibility. By offering five-star comfort, wellness experiences and private accommodations at comparatively lower prices, Indonesia has challenged traditional notions of exclusivity within luxury travel.

A Destination Shaping Future Travel Choices

As global travel continues to recover and evolve, destinations that offer a balance of indulgence and value are expected to gain prominence. Indonesia’s top ranking has signalled its readiness to lead this shift. With its islands offering affordability, extravagance and cultural depth, Indonesia has been positioned as a benchmark for future luxury travel destinations worldwide.