DINK stands for Dual Income No Kids. The phrase is often used to describe a couple’s added financial power and freedom. With two disposable incomes and no children to care for and spoil, it opens up a lot of opportunities.
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Especially in the realm of travel.
From a logistical standpoint, planning trips is easier with no need to find a sitter or factor kids into the itinerary. (That’s not to say traveling with kids doesn’t have its magical moments, of course.) From a financial standpoint, there’s plenty of extra money to toss around—especially when it comes to luxury hotels.
In short, as a DINK, splurging isn’t out of the question—at least, from time to time.
My partner and I are part of this group. We like to keep a little Rolodex (oh no, my age is showing) of potential getaways with a little taste for luxury. For example, Airelles Chateau du Versailles has been on my radar for a quick, lush getaway. The boutique hotel is located on the grounds of Versailles and includes a list of insane add-ons, from falconry in the royal gardens to Marie Antoinette-themed tea times.
Ready to take a walk on the DINKy side of travel? I’m counting down some of the best vacations for DINKs in the US and abroad.
To clarify: you don’t have to be a travel-ready couple with disposable income and no children to indulge in this type of getaway. (Though it helps.) All you really need is a little taste for luxury. And possibly a passport.
Best vacations for DINKs in the US
Wellness-focused: L’Auberge in Sedona, Arizona
Get a view of Sedona’s iconic red rocks from L’Auberge. While you’re there, indulge in on-site spa treatments that reflect the Southwest surroundings—or venture into more spiritual territory with a Sedona tour. When it’s time to call it a day, unwind in the hot tub, then head to one of two highly acclaimed on-site restaurants for a bite to eat. Just don’t miss out on the spa. It includes several treatments, from body scrubs to deep-tissue massages to hot stone treatments.
Vineyard country: Alila Napa Valley in St. Helena, California
This luxury Alila Hyatt property is located in the heart of St. Helena, a prime spot to soak up the Napa Valley atmosphere. It’s a highly acclaimed boutique stay that includes amenities like gas fire pits in each room, views of the nearby Beringer estate, and gives you access to a world-class spa and restaurant. It’s the perfect landing pad for your Napa Valley adventures, which is set inside a farmhouse from 1905. Think: austerity, class, and endless vineyards.
Snow-friendly: The Little Nell in Aspen, Colorado
Welcome to the most opulent hotel in Aspen, Colorado—a mountain town that’s already renowned for its upscale offers. What makes The Little Nell stand apart from its Aspen counterparts is its ski-in, ski-out setup, massive wood-burning fireplace that centers the lobby, and its OTT level of personalized service. If you’ve got deep pockets, a desire to take to the slopes, and an appreciation for cozy, traditional Alpine settings, The Little Nell is well worth the price tag for DINKs.
Nature abounds: Eastwind Oliverea Valley in Big Indian, New York
If you’ve got a car and appreciate scenic drives, head out to Big Indian now. There, you’ll find Eastwind Oliverea Valley waiting to usher you into a quiet, upscale retreat nestled in the Catskills. You’ve got hiking trails and scenic vistas around every corner—but the interiors of the hotel’s minimalist A-Frames might keep you rapt. It’s both warm and modern, offering a thoroughly charming and cozy stay.
Best vacations for DINKs abroad
Summer in the Alps: Grand Tschuggen Hotel in Arosa, Switzerland
Having once been treated to a stay at the Grand Tschuggen Hotel in Arosa, I can tell you wholeheartedly that it’s worth the time and money to make it to Arosa for this stay. If you’re a skier who loves ski-in, ski-out setups, book your trip now—the hotel even has its own private lift to the slopes. I visited during the summer, which offered a quieter and snow-less stay—one that comes with discounts, in case you’re interested. Regardless, you’ve got access to a top-notch spa, along with access to the adorable, lakeside town of Arosa.
Hush-hush beachside escape: Bagaglino I Giardini Di Porto Cervo in Sardinia
Located on Sardinia’s Emerald Coast, far from the hustle and bustle of Italy’s mainland, you can drop off the map at a handful of seaside escapes. I recommend heading to Bagaglino I Giardini in Porto Cervo. The rooms are spacious and come with sweeping views of the bright blue water, along with beach access and large gardens. It’s a great place to enjoy a quiet summer vacation.
Just a note: this property closes from October to May—it’s only for summer trips.
Classic Caribbean vibes: Dreams Rose Hall Resort & Spa in Montego Bay, Jamaica
Who says you need to overspend to enjoy the best vacations for DINKs? At Dreams Rose Hall Resort (a Hilton property), you can enjoy an all-inclusive stay that won’t drain your bank account. Despite the reasonable prices, you’ve still got an 18-hole golf course to play, a world-class spa to explore, a private beach, and six different restaurants. And that’s not counting the lush pools and gardens, or the beach bars.
*Due to Hurricane Melissa, travel to Jamaica is on pause as the country works to restore vital infrastructure, from roads to power lines. That being said, keep Dreams Rose Hall Resort & Spa on your radar for when the country is ready to welcome visitors again, likely in spring or summer 2026.
Fun from every angle: Sandos Playacar in Playa de Carmen, Mexico
As with Grand Tschuggen Hotel, I’ve also had the pleasure of staying at Sandos Playacar—and it’s got something fun to do from just about every angle. During my short stay, I was involved in a beach dance party, sea kayaking, multiple theatrical performances, and even pool parties. The atmosphere was exciting, and events were geared toward both adults and children. As an added perk, you can easily book off-resort tours through the concierge, which opens up the entire Mayan Riviera.
For next year’s adventuring: Casa Bonavita, Malta (Opening May 2026)
If you’re looking for the best vacations for DINKs for the coming year, let me put a new hotel on your radar: Casa Bonavita in Attard, Malta. (That’s near the main hub of Valletta.) It’s set inside a refurbished 18th-century villa that will have 17 rooms spread around the estate and surrounded by lush gardens. More importantly, it’s the brainchild of a couple with high-design dreams, meaning you can expect a grand stay with drool-worthy décor that’s perfectly themed for the Southern Mediterranean.
