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Travel & Experiences

14 luxury vacations for 2014

Pikaia, opening in May, will be the most luxurious lodging in the Galapagos. It's on Santa Cruz Island in the center of the island chain, and you can explore the volcanic island and its wildlife (the hotel has a giant tortoise preserve), dive the waters and visit other islands on the Pikaia I, the hotel's 100-foot yacht. The hotel has ultramodern rooms with huge glass windows to capture the spectacular view. Three nights from $3,230 per person. Info: http://www.pikaialodgegalapagos.com Pictured: A breeding center for giant tortoises on Santa Cruz Island.

Pikaia, opening in May, will be the most luxurious lodging in the Galapagos. It’s on Santa Cruz Island in the center of the island chain, and you can explore the volcanic island and its wildlife (the hotel has a giant tortoise preserve), dive the waters and visit other islands on the Pikaia I, the hotel’s 100-foot yacht. The hotel has ultramodern rooms with huge glass windows to capture the spectacular view. Three nights from $3,230 per person. Info: http://www.pikaialodgegalapagos.com

Pictured: A breeding center for giant tortoises on Santa Cruz Island.   (Rodrigo Buendia / AFP/Getty Images)

The economy is picking up, and this might be the year for a bucket list trip. Here are 14 ways to vacation like a rock star in 2014.

-- Amanda Jones

Amantaka, Luang Prabang, Laos

The arty town of Luang Prabang finally has a luxury hotel. Steeped in history, the hotel has 24 suites in what was once a French colonial hospital, with broad verandas centered on a leafy courtyard with an enormous pool. Spend the day visiting serene Buddhist temples, taking Lao cooking classes or riding elephants, then return for a lime and ginger body wrap at the spa. Doubles from $800 per night plus a compulsory $150 per person, per night, charge. Includes breakfast and choice of lunch or dinner, guided excursions and house alcohol. Info: http://www.amanresorts.com

Pictured: Young monks in front of Wat Xieng Thong temple in Luang Prabang.  (Chumsak Kanoknan / Getty Images)

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