Looking for a luxurious five-star hotel experience without spending a fortune? Consider traveling internationally.
According to the newly released 2025 Hotel Price Index from Hotels.com, travelers can save an average of 27% by booking five-star accommodations abroad instead of in the United States. While U.S. hotel prices have slightly decreased—dropping 2% from 2023 to 2024—international luxury stays still offer more bang for your buck.
“Many travelers assume international trips are always more expensive, but our data shows that’s not necessarily the case,” said Melanie Fish, travel expert at Hotels.com. “You can book a five-star hotel for just $150 in places like Hanoi or Pattaya, making luxury travel surprisingly affordable.”
The cost differences are influenced by factors such as local demand, exchange rates, and the price of goods and services. While five-star hotel ratings can vary by country, they generally include upscale amenities, high service standards, and sometimes sustainability practices.
If you’re strategic about where and when you travel, you can enjoy a high-end experience without the high-end price tag. Here’s what you need to know.
Top International Destinations for Affordable 5-Star Hotels
Hotels.com’s 2025 Hotel Price Index highlights the following cities as offering the best value for five-star stays, based on average nightly rates from 2023 to 2024:
1. Guadalajara, Mexico – $149
2. Hanoi, Vietnam – $157
3. Pattaya, Thailand – $157
4. Gothenburg, Sweden – $168
5. Istanbul, Turkey – $169
6. Bangkok, Thailand – $178
7. Panama City, Panama – $186
8. Auckland, New Zealand – $192
9. Shanghai, China – $193
10. Melbourne, Australia – $203
Best U.S. Cities for Budget-Friendly Luxury Hotels
Prefer to stay stateside? These U.S. cities offer the most affordable five-star hotel rates:
1. Portland, Oregon – $287
2. San Antonio, Texas – $340
3. Las Vegas, Nevada – $341
4. Atlanta, Georgia – $361
5. Miami, Florida – $386
Tips for Scoring the Best Hotel Deals
Melanie Fish also shared some tips to help travelers maximize their savings:
– Travel Off-Peak: Avoid high-demand times. Shoulder seasons and less popular nights—like Sundays—often come with lower rates.
– Choose All-Inclusive: Booking a package that includes your room, meals, and activities can offer better value and a more seamless, stress-free experience.
With a bit of planning and flexibility, luxury travel doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag.
Source: usatoday.com