Level up: the rise of the holiday upgrade

We’re seeing more travellers add little touches to their holidays that turn up the VIP vibes. From sky-high perks to rooms with wow-factor views, here are ten ways to take your next trip up a notch.

1. Lounge before lift-off

An airport lounge is an often overlooked upgrade that sets your trip off on the right note. We can pre-book lounges at most UK and overseas airports, where you’ll trade the airport stress for comfy armchairs, fast Wi-Fi and fizz on tap.

2. Flying high

Flying business or premium class might be a splurge, but it’s one that pays off the moment you board. Settle into extra space, enjoy a few bubbles and dishes that feel more fine-dining than in-flight. You’ll arrive refreshed, not rumpled – and you can even just upgrade one way.

3. Ride ready

With a private transfer, you’ll skip the queues and be on your way to the hotel in no time. After a long flight, there’s no better sight than stepping out of arrivals to find your driver waiting, sign in hand.

4. Suite dreams

The right room can change everything. Swap street views for sea views, bag a Club suite with perks like complimentary canapés and cocktails or splash out on a room with your own private pool or jacuzzi. Our experts have stayed in rooms at every level, so they know exactly which upgrades are worth the extra spend.

5. Go all in

Upgrading your board basis can add up to fantastic value. Many resorts offer premium all-inclusive options with dine-around choices, premium pours and added extras like golf green fees, watersports and excursions. Two of our favourites are Heritage Awali Golf & Spa Resort in Mauritius, with its Premium All-Inclusive, and Kuramathi Maldives, where the Select All-Inclusive gives you access to nine seriously-good à la carte restaurants.

6. Book some spa-aah time

Add a dose of feel-good to your holiday with a little spa time. Pre-booking a treatment or two means fewer to-do’s when you’re there. Try a jetlag recovery treatment, a salt scrub that leaves your skin glowing or a moonlit massage under starry skies. It’s the upgrade that resets everything – body, mind and mood.

7. Stay, then slay

Who says you have to stick to one spot? Swap rooms during your stay for a new view (and a new vibe). Start smart with a great-value option, then up the ante. In Bali, begin with barefoot strolls at a boho beach hotel before finishing in style at a five-star icon like Viceroy Bali. Or in the Maldives, start in a charming beach bungalow and end in a dazzling water villa for that over-the-ocean magic.

8. Add adventure

What better way to upgrade your trip than with moments you’ll remember forever? Drift over the savannah in a hot air balloon at sunrise, come face to face with elephants in a jungle camp or see the city twinkle from above on a helicopter ride. We’ve got a black book packed with unforgettable experiences to build into your trip, and you’ll get the inside scoop from experts who’ve tried them themselves.

9. Mark the moment

Got something to celebrate? We know just how to make it special. Surprise your loved one with dinner à deux beside a candlelit waterfall, a floating breakfast in your private pool or a night stargazing in a beach bubble on a deserted shore. Read our experts’ guide to special occasion holidays.

10. A smooth send off

Got a late flight? Make your last day count. A late check-out gives you a few bonus hours to squeeze in one more swim, one more spritz and one more snooze in the sun. Just ask our experts for tips on how to make the most of your last day.

This article was created on 28th October 2025. The information is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication.