Whenever someone starts talking about luxury holiday destinations, most people will immediately think of far-flung and jet set locations like Dubai, the Caribbean or the Pacific Islands.
What many don't realise, however, is that there is really no need to take a long haul flight to enjoy a bit of luxury on your next holiday.
There are plenty of five-star resorts and hotels within much easier reach of the UK, especially for those looking for a short break.
First on the list is the island of Crete.
With top cuisine, incredible natural beauty and plenty of ancient history and gorgeous architecture, Crete is a dream come true for anyone looking for a luxury holiday destination.
As well as many five-star hotels there are also top class villas and even self-catering accommodation for those who like something a little different.
Resort hotels like Elounda Beach boast amazing suites that come with everything from fireplaces and jacuzzis to private gyms and heated swimming pools.
There are a large variety of restaurants on offer and a dazzling range of activities including everything from golf and spa treatments to sightseeing excursions, escorted tours of the island and sunset cruises.
Next up is Paris, already well-known for its getaway retreats for couples and honeymooners.
Add a touch of French romance to your next luxury holiday with a stay in a Parisian luxury hotel like the Four Seasons George V, which is located between the Champs Elysees and the River Seine and has been the luxury accommodation of choice for royalty and visiting celebrities for the last eight decades.
Typical amenities in Paris for luxury holiday seekers include marble bathrooms, spacious suites, private dining areas and silk furnishings that bring to mind the heyday of the extravagant pre-Revolution French aristocracy.
Needless to say a wide range of luxurious services are available to most guests in top Parisian resorts including spa treatments, amazing cuisine and even private sightseeing tours around the historic city.
Finally, Portugal offers a surprisingly large range of luxury holiday resorts, many of which are located outside the main cities and towns, perched on scenic cliff sides or in the midst of beautiful countryside away from heavily populated areas.
Hotels like Reid's Palace are actually located offshore on one of Portugal's many nearby islands, surrounded by tropical plants and flowers which combine with five-star facilities and suites to give a level of luxury totally unexpected outside of high-end holiday destinations in the tropics.
Activities here include an enormous private gymnasium, spa treatments, golf courses, wine tastings, water sports, fine dining and multiple enormous swimming pools; many of which even have direct access to the nearby ocean for a truly thrilling as well as indulgent experience.
So don't assume you have to jet off to far-flung locations for the luxury holiday treatment - there are plenty of luxurious locations in Europe to help you get pampered and enjoy a high-class holiday closer to home.