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Luxe For Less: Top Holidays Under $999
Written by Nate Robinson
Dreaming of elsewhere? Here are some of our best escapes under $999 – the ultimate excuse for a trip away.
If you’ve found yourself with a little extra cash this year – or you’re simply ready for a well-deserved break – this is the perfect opportunity to book your next escape away. These retreats are all A$999 (or less), and with many offering inclusions like daily dining, massages and nightly cocktails, they make the perfect reason to splash out. Read more to discover our top holidays under $999.
After more savings? Luxury gets a whole lot more affordable with LuxPlus+ – for an annual membership of A$249 (plus a one-off joining fee of A$500, waived upon making your first LuxPlus+ eligible booking with membership added at checkout) you can save hundreds every year with exclusive additional discounts, hidden escapes and bonus inclusions.
Bali holidays under A$999
Novotel Bali Nusa Dua
Wrapped in tropical gardens and anchored by a two-tier lagoon pool, this five-hectare resort is as Bali as it comes. A short shuttle ride will take you to its private beach club, with front-row access to golden sands and an unforgettable sunrise. Dining options cover everything from Balinese favourites at The Square to French pastries at Pause Café and poolside drinks at Gourmet Bar. Plus, you’ll get the full Bali experience with spa treatments and daily activities like Balinese dancing.
Rumah Luwih Bali, an IHG Hotel
This elegant colonial-style hotel combines traditional Balinese touches with Dutch-inspired architecture, all set against the black sand beaches of Gianyar. With a uniquely tiled infinity pool that seemingly melts into a lotus pond and a view of Mount Agung on clear days it’s a striking place to settle in. Enjoy breakfast and chandelier-lit lunch and dinner at Adrawina Restaurant, daily free-flow drinks and massages.
Arkamara Dijiwa Ubud
Tucked among Ubud’s emerald rice terraces and rainforest, Arkamara Dijiwa feels like a secluded Balinese village. Suites and villas here merge luxury with authenticity, each decorated with traditional woodwork and opening to sweeping views. Packages include breakfast rooted in local flavour at Kaukau, massages and daily activities like mixology classes.
Maha Hills Resort
At Maha Hills Resort, wellness doesn’t have to break the bank. Views of waterfalls and jungle canopies complement healing hilltop yoga in Sambangan, farm-to-table dining is guaranteed and healer-led meditation is on rotation. Plus, you’ll get a personal experience with Northern Bali’s majestic marine life on a sunrise dolphin tour on the volcanic sands of Lovina Beach.
Thailand holidays under A$999
The Haven Khao Lak, Thailand
The Haven Khao Lak dazzles with sheer abundance. Perfectly positioned on the sands of Khuk Khak Beach, the resort features a sprawling lagoon pool – with spectacular views of the Andaman Sea from almost every angle – and an all-inclusive upgrade that includes two hours of free-flow cocktails and two indulgent massages per stay.
Cross Chiang Mai Riverside
Where modern elegance meets ancient tamarind trees and views of the Ping River, Cross Chiang Mai Riverside is the perfect interlude. Michelin-recognised meals are served in the Oxygen Dining Room’s glasshouse, kayak and bicycle rentals take care of the sightseeing with Chiang Mai’s temples just a short trip away, and the rooftop infinity pool is the perfect spot for a cocktail.
Panviman Resort Koh Phangan
In a country famous for its beautiful islands, Koh Phangan has a reputation for being among the most spectacular. With an unrivalled clifftop position, Panviman Resort Koh Phangan offers the ideal chance to discover everything that makes the island so alluring, including serene beaches, lush coconut fields and raucous full moon parties. Enjoy daily dining, nightly cocktails and massages.
The Riverie by Katathani
Consistently ranking highly in the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, The Riverie by Katathani brings Chiang Rai’s enchanting heritage to life on the banks of the Kok River. Explore nearby temples, splash in the mini waterpark, and as a bonus, upgrade to a Riverie Suite for plenty of space and gorgeous river views – still less than A$999 for a three-night stay.
Australia holidays under $999
The Windsor, Melbourne
Melbourne’s iconic landmark on Collins Street is a Victorian-era marvel, host to everyone from prime ministers to Hollywood legends, and even has Australia’s longest-running afternoon tea. Across from Parliament House and steps from the Princess Theatre, it’s well-positioned for exploring Melbourne. The hotel’s Cricketers Bar rounds out the experience with a nod to local tradition.
voco Kirkton Park Hunter Valley, an IHG Hotel
What’s better than wine and a holiday? Experience the best of Australia’s cellar doors in the heart of the Hunter Valley. Set on 70 acres with panoramic views of the Broken Back Ranges, this is your gateway to Pokolbin’s famed artisanal producers and winemakers. You’ll be a Hunter Valley expert in no time with a Tulloch Wines wine flight, a kombucha and cheese tasting experience and the region’s wineries minutes away.
Pan Pacific Perth
Newly refurbished and located just minutes from the Swan River and Langley Park, Pan Pacific Perth’s commitment to five-star service has cemented its position as one of the city’s best escapes. With packages including daily access to the Pacific Club Lounge – where afternoon tea, nightly drinks and canapes are served daily – it’s another reason to discover Western Australia’s laidback capital.
The Hydro Majestic Hotel
Open since 1904, the Hydro Majestic is an Art Deco Masterpiece perched in the Blue Mountains of New South Wales, having hosted icons like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Venture only 90 minutes from Sydney to explore its century-old architecture with a guided tour, or hike to nearby wonders like Echo Point. Add dinner at The Wintergarden to your package for an indulgent Chef-Hatted meal.
The Star Grand at The Star Gold Coast
Experience the Gold Coast at its most glamorous at The Star Grand. More resort playground than hotel, this entertainment complex features countless delights, including live music spot Atrium Bar, a palm-fringed rooftop pool and more than a dozen dining venues. With a daily A$50 dining credit per day included in your package, you’re free to go wherever your heart (and tastebuds) take you.
Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific, an IHG Hotel
For a Central Coast seaside retreat with all the perks, Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific is a classic. Here you’ll be treated to ocean views from the outdoor pool, daily buffet breakfast and a bottle of wine awaiting your arrival. Find true relaxation at endota spa, explore nearby Terrigal’s charming cafés and boutiques or hike up to Skillion Point for 360-degree coastal views.
Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney
It feels almost unfair that a hotel as sophisticated as Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney would still be within easy walking distance of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge and The Rocks. While there are many reasons why this hotel is perfect for a Sydney staycation, it’s the dining venues that stand out, including Prohibition-inspired speakeasy Brooksy’s Bar and the sky-high Level 31, home to a lavish pink high tea.
After more inspiration? Check out How to Holiday Like a VIP (For Less).
Featured image: Panviman Resort Koh Phangan, Thailand.
