5 Places Where the Upper Middle Class Love To Vacation for the Holidays
Written by
Martin Dasko
Edited by
Amen Oyiboke
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
According to a recent survey from Marriott Bonvoy, 91% of Americans plan to travel in 2026, and almost half (49%) shared that they wanted to travel more than they did in 2025. While it’s evident that life is getting more expensive for Americans, the survey found that 67% are willing to prioritize experiences over material purchases in 2026.
Even though finances will affect your vacation plans, the good news is that there are destinations that attract the upper middle class and remain affordable for most people.
GOBankingRates consulted travel experts to identify the destinations the upper middle class loves to visit for holidays. We will examine what makes these destinations appealing and whether they’re affordable for middle-class consumers.
Cancun and Riviera Maya, Mexico
Jason Wright, a travel expert and founder of Paradise Weddings, said upper-middle-class travelers love this region because there are so many oceanfront all-inclusive resorts.
“Getting to Cancun is an easy nonstop flight from most major U.S. cities, with great beaches and day trips to places like the Xcaret parks and Chichen Itza ranging from $30 to $110 per person,” Wright said.
The best part about an all-inclusive resort is that you only have to spend money once, since everything will be included with your stay.
Is it affordable for middle-class people?
Wright said the region can be affordable, especially for those flexible with travel dates. Midrange all-inclusive resorts typically range from $200 to $350 per night, while higher-end options run from $350 to $600 per night. Traveling during the off-season can significantly reduce costs.
Tulum, Mexico
Wright noted that Tulum has many trendy boutique resorts, beach clubs, ruins, and cenotes that attract higher-income visitors.
“There’s a big draw for wellness, yoga, and great restaurants for the foodies,” he said.
All-inclusive resorts range from $190 to $450 per night, depending on the season. Activities such as visiting cenotes or ruins typically cost $20 to $30 per person, while local transportation ranges from $10 to $20 per trip. Dining is often what drives costs higher, particularly in beachfront restaurants with inflated prices.
Is it affordable for middle-class people?
Wright noted that Tulum can be affordable for middle-class travelers on a budget, but you’ll need to make some compromises. Since the beachfront hotels and experiences are highly overpriced, you may want to consider trying to find an Airbnb that’s located in town to save money. You’ll also have to pay attention to restaurant pricing so that you don’t break your budget.
Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, Mexico
Wright emphasized that these locations offer a mix of historic town, beach, and jungle that appeals to higher-income travelers.
“Great dining, and quieter than Cancun or Riviera Maya, which makes it a relaxing place to vacation,” he said.
As for pricing, a good 4-star all-inclusive resort in Puerto Vallarta typically costs around $220 per night, but it depends on the season. Group snorkeling or scuba trips usually cost between $40 and $100 per person.
Is it affordable for middle-class people?
Wright said travelers not staying at all-inclusive resorts should budget about $30 to $50 per person per day for food. For many middle-class travelers, all-inclusive resorts are often the most cost-effective option, especially compared with destinations like Cabo San Lucas or St. Lucia.
Bali, Indonesia
“With some strategic planning that takes seasonal market fluctuations in pricing into account, the upper-middle class can experience a luxurious lifestyle for a lower cost in this destination,” said Joe Cronin, a travel expert and president of International Citizens Insurance.
This area attracts upper-middle-class people who are looking to escape the cold and enjoy luxury without paying as much as they would in other destinations.
When it comes to costs, Warungs (local eateries) sell meals for $2-$5, whereas cafes or mid-tier restaurants charge around $6-$15 per meal. Renting a scooter for around $5-8 per day is the most common way to get around, and activities such as spas, guided tours, or yoga classes typically cost $15-50.
Is it affordable for middle-class people?
Cronin said Bali is ideal for “affordable luxury,” with private-pool villas starting around $150 per night and simpler accommodations ranging from $50 to $100. While flight costs can be high, lodging and daily expenses remain budget-friendly.
Santorini and Crete, Greece
“Greece offers breathtaking scenery and history at an off-season price and makes it a welcoming option for travelers looking for a comfortable, though not luxurious, experience,” said Cronin. “For example, Santorini and Crete have a unique blend of culture and affordability outside of peak season.”
You’ve likely seen the stunning views from Greece in a social media post, as this location has been attracting upper-class people looking to experience Europe in the summer.
Is it affordable for middle-class people?
Wright noted that, depending on the view and location, prices for good hotels and boutique guest houses typically range from $90 to $160 per night. Moderate tavern meals can range from €12-18 for lunch, and a €20-35 range for dinner, and ferry prices are reasonable, so you can experience Greece on a middle-class budget.
Munich, Germany
Sarah Silbert, the managing editor at Points Path, said that Munich is a European city known for its Christmas markets, making it a popular destination during the holiday break. The city also appeals to upper-middle-class tourists as it offers plenty of green spaces, a rich cultural heritage, Bavarian traditions, and musical options.
Is it affordable for middle-class people?
Silbert stressed that flights aren’t cheap, and a round-trip from NYC will cost around $2,000 for a nonstop flight. You can find accommodations for under $200 a night if you look around and are flexible with the location.
“Plus, activities like Christmas markets are generally free or low-cost, and eating out at a mid-range restaurant is more affordable than in Hawaii (expect to spend around 30-40 euros per person),” she said.
More From GOBankingRates
