Luxury Meets Local: How to Travel in Style Without Losing Authenticity
July 03, 2025
When planning a summer escape, it’s easy to be tempted by luxury hotels and exclusive experiences. But if you’re seeking something that feels genuine—where you can connect with local culture while still enjoying a bit of indulgence—there’s a sweet spot between luxury and authenticity. Here’s how to strike that balance and make your summer holidays truly special.
Choose Boutique Over Big Brands
Big-name hotels have their perks, but opting for smaller, boutique accommodations can give you a more personal and authentic experience. In Italy’s Umbria region, for example, charming agriturismos offer rustic elegance and a direct link to the local community. Many of these family-run farmhouses serve homegrown produce and showcase traditional crafts and cooking.
For couples, a boutique hotel in a medieval hill town can provide a romantic backdrop, while families might prefer countryside villas where children can roam freely. Look for places that focus on locally sourced materials and celebrate regional character rather than global chain-style uniformity.
Eat Like a Local
Luxury doesn’t have to mean white-tablecloth dining. In Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula, you’ll find refined restaurants that champion local ingredients and time-honoured recipes. Picture yourself sampling truffle-infused dishes or enjoying a seafood feast by the Adriatic. Supporting independent eateries means you’ll not only savour incredible flavours, but also help preserve culinary traditions.
One tip? Check out local food festivals and farmers’ markets—often the best places to experience authentic dishes in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Go Off the Beaten Path
The real luxury often lies in discovering hidden corners away from the crowds. Instead of the well-trodden French Riviera, consider the peaceful charm of Corsica’s mountain villages or Slovenia’s wine country. Or, in Greece, skip the packed islands and explore the serene landscapes of Epirus, with its stone villages and ancient ruins.
Adventurous families will love road trips through Slovenia’s countryside, where you can stay in boutique eco-lodges or converted barns. Couples, meanwhile, might prefer cycling holidays that combine luxury accommodation with rural landscapes and farm-to-table meals.
Book Meaningful Experiences
Luxury travel is increasingly about meaningful, immersive experiences rather than simply ticking off the usual sights. Choose tours run by local guides or family businesses to learn the stories and traditions that make a destination special. A cooking class in an Italian farmhouse or a private art walk in a Croatian town can make memories that last far longer than a beach day.
Many luxury retreats now offer curated experiences like wine tasting or craft workshops—perfect for those wanting a deeper connection with their holiday spot.
Practical Tips for Blending Luxury and Authenticity:
- Travel Insurance: When investing in luxury or off-the-beaten-path experiences, make sure you have travel insurance in place. Flexicover Travel Insurance offers options tailored to different types of holidays and activities, so you can relax knowing you’re covered.
- Do Your Homework: Research local businesses, read reviews, and learn about the destination’s customs and etiquette before you go. The UK government’s foreign travel advice is a good starting point for understanding local guidelines and health recommendations.
- Support Local: Wherever possible, spend your money with small, family-run enterprises to help preserve the culture and economy of your destination.