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1. Burj Al Arab in Dubai
Imagine stepping into a world where even your wildest dreams of luxury feel understated. That’s exactly how I felt when I first walked into the Burj Al Arab. This architectural marvel rises from its own artificial island like a modern-day palace from the Arabian Nights. But what truly amazed me wasn’t just the 24-carat gold leaf adorning the walls or the Rolls-Royce that whisked me from the airport – it was how they’ve managed to make such outrageous opulence feel somehow completely natural. When you’re handed your personal gold-plated iPad at check-in and shown to your 8,396-square-foot duplex suite, you’ll understand what I mean about redefining luxury.
2. The Palms in Las Vegas
Vegas has no shortage of over-the-top hotels, but The Palms takes extravagance to an entirely different level. During my last stay, I toured the infamous Sky Villa – an 8,500-square-foot playground that makes most luxury penthouses look like studio apartments. Picture this: you’re shooting hoops on your private indoor basketball court, then cooling off with a swim in your cantilevered pool that seems to float above the Strip. Since its acquisition by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians in 2021 for $650 million, they’ve added a fascinating cultural dimension to the property that sets it apart from typical Vegas flash.