Texas isn't all 10-gallon hats and dusty old oil wells. In fact, it is a fantastic place to visit if you are looking for some more high-end experiences and an added bit of luxury to enjoy. After all, they did film Dallas in, well… Dallas! Happily, the luxe side of Texas is something that you can find out more about, as well as get some recommendations on in my post below. 

How to get there 

Firstly, while you may hear of people road tripping to Texas, or taking a regular flight if you want to do things in style and start your vacation off with the most luxury possible you will want to charter a private jet. Now, wait a minute before you dismiss this out of hand as being too opulent or expensive, because actually, it may be a lot more reasonable than you think. 

In fact, it's well worth taking some time to read more about this option. Also, remember that traveling in this way you will have a lot of freedom plan your trip because five airports have private jet facilities in Texas. These being Houston, Austin, El Paso, Dallas, and San Antonio. 

Where to stay 

Now when it comes to finding some high-end 5-star accommodation, you won't be disappointed in the lone star state! Let's start with the capital Austin, which as a large metropolitan city is home to many luxury hotels. 

In fact, if you are looking for a place that is chic and contemporary then the W Austin on Lavaca Street, is a great bet. Cubist and mirrored on the outside the interior is immaculately designed to be both gorgeous and comfortable in a wonderfully understated way. You will also find the most stylish modern pool outside which is perfect for cooling off in the hot Texas heat, or just for lounging next to show off you Gucci swimwear. 

At the W they also have a Whatever/Whenever® service which is like a concierge on steroids, basically if you want tickets to a football, game, entry only a club VIP list or anything else that is in their realm of control they will get in done, Now I can't think of anything more luxe than that, can you?

Of course, Austin isn't the only place in which you can have a luxe experience in Texas, and those looking for something more traditional can do little better than heading to Dallas. 

In particular, you may wish to consider the rather stunning Gaylord Texan Resort located in Grapevine. There you will find acres of indoor waterways and lush garden al under an air-conditioned roof. The building itself is constructed in a grand style and overlooks Lake Grapevine where you can fish and sail to heart's desire. Then there is the gorgeous spa and immaculately appointed rooms to enjoy as well, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a little extra extravagance. 

Then, of course, there is the fabulous city of Houston which has quite a few offering on the higher end of the scale to choose from. Consider the Houstonian Hotel Club and Spa if you are looking for more traditional charm, as it offers both fine dining and a golf course on site both tinged with old-school style. 

Alternatively, if you are looking for a luxe stay with cutting edge design, Hotel ZaZa may be the perfect place. Expect opulent, baroque features, global themes, and a well executed eclectic mix of contemporary and classic pieces here. Something that will make you accommodation almost as much fun as the activity you choose.

What to do 

Happily, once you have settled into whichever sumptuous hotel you choose, you will be delighted to find the father are many high-end experiences in Texas to choose from to fill your time as well. 

If you are in Austin, then a private guided tour of all the major museums and art galleries may be something that you would like to do. Of course with places like Blanton Museum of Art on Martin Luther King Blv, and The Contemporary Austin on Congress Avenue you won't be short of rare and exciting pieces to see. 

Alternatively, if you find yourself in Dallas, why not treat yourself to a delicious meal at the Reunion Tower restaurant Five Sixty, run by famous chef Wolfgang Puck? After all, there you can get some stunning dishes such as Szechuan Beef Filet “Au Poivre” And Pan Seared Diver Scallops, all while checking out the 360 panoramic views, 470 feet up in their air! 

Then if you find yourself in San Antonio, you must make time to expense the magic of The Majestic Theatre. Built in 1929 The Majestic is opulent to a fault inside and even before you sit to watch a show you will be bowled over the cloudscape on the ceiling. A work that covers the dome with lit stars that are actually in the correctly astrological positions! 

Of course, when visiting the Majestic, you will have plenty of performances to choose from as well, with some of the current offerings including Sofía Niño de Rivera and Broadway shows such as Wicked. 

Houston isn’t too shabby when it comes to lavish experiences for the high-end traveler either, and in particular in this city, you will find the newly Michelin star awarded Yauatcha in which to indulge your senses. 

Try their Roasted duck pumpkin puffs, Jasmine tea smoked pork ribs, and a malted milk crèmeux, with caramelized honey panna cotta, topped with an Anzac biscuit to finish. Oh and don't forget they are world famous for their Asian inspired cocktails too! 

Lastly, if its opulence you are looking for in El Paso then why not try a sunset or an evening star private helicopter tour? What could be more exciting than getting to see Mt Cristo Rey, or the Rio Grande as the sun sets, or Downtown El Paso's and Juarez's light twinkling at night? 

Of course, as a private tour, you can decide where you want to go when and have ultimate control over your experience. A feature that makes it a must-do activity for any visit to Texas, where you are looking to put luxury first.