When it comes to high costs of living, one would immediately think of Europe or maybe the Americas, but in a study made by the Economist Intelligence Unit, of their 10 most expensive cities to live in, half of the cities are actually found in Asia.
Surprisingly, four of the top 5 are Asian cities, namely Singapore (which tops the list), Hong Kong (which came in second), and the Japanese cities of Tokyo and Osaka (which came in at 4th and 5th places, respectively). Seoul, South Korea, came in at 6th place.
So when it comes to luxury travel and living, these cities certainly don’t disappoint. From hosting some of the world’s most luxurious and most expensive hotels, to travel experiences that are out of this world, to Michelin star restaurants that take your senses to new heights, these cities are the playground of the rich and famous.
Here are the 5 most expensive cities in Asia to dine, unwind, enjoy, and splurge.
1. Singapore
Topping our list of the most expensive cities in Asia is Singapore. The costs of basic goods in this city state are the most expensive in the world, with one basic bottle of shampoo costing around USD7 and a standard single night at a 5-star hotel can set you back for USD300.
One of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, you can find a limitless number of 5-star hotels, fine dining options, and some of the world’s most expensive boutiques.
Want to explore Singapore but don’t want to mingle with the rest of the tourists? Take a yacht to St. John’s Island or take your chartered boat to party in the middle of the sea with friends and family.
2. Hong Kong
They say the best way to explore this dynamic city is through a private helicopter tour. And to top off an hour of sightseeing aboard your chopper, you can choose from a wide array of exclusive restaurants boasting of Michelin star chefs in private dining rooms that cater to you and you only.
Want to do some shopping around Hong Kong? Avail of a personal shopping experience in designer shops such as Burberry, Chanel, or Bvlgari.
And oh yes, you can arrange for that very same helicopter to pick you up, too.
3. Tokyo, Japan
The Japanese capital is the world’s largest metropolis, which means that real estate prices here are immensely expensive. An unfurnished 2-bedroom luxury apartment can set you back at USD4,800, and even the cost of a movie ticket is almost twice as that in New York.
One of the most impressive accolades of Tokyo is having the most number of Michelin-starred restaurants located in just one city, beating the rest of the world’s other fine dining hubs such as France.
The best way to indulge in authentic Japanese food? The 3-Michelin star restaurant Ishikawa, which is almost impossible to find and features only 4 private rooms with 7 seats each.
4. Osaka, Japan
Japan’s third largest city, it is home to world-class shopping and some of the best fine dining options in the world, with over 90 restaurants having been awarded Michelin stars in 2017.
Japan’s home of the Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis, luxury accommodation is at its best in Osaka. If you fancy some regional alternative, the Amanemu luxury hotel is located about 3 hours from Osaka on a mountain overlooking Ago Bay. With only 24 suites and villas, it’s unrivaled privacy and exclusivity, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
5. Seoul, South Korea
In a study by Switchfly, a technology and booking company, Seoul topped their 2015 Luxury Travel Index for being the top city for wealthy travelers to visit to. Their analysts took a look at data that measured the average length of stay and how much they spent.
The results revealed that these travelers spent an average of 13 days in Seoul – eating, shopping, and sightseeing.
With an obsession for beauty and Kpop, Seoul has become the glitzy and glamorous destination for many luxury travelers around the world.
If you want to live in the city’s most expensive properties, Gangnam is definitely the district to take a look into.
Image source: pixabay.com
