For travelers seeking to experience luxury without the commensurate cost, a former travel editor has shared a series of strategies honed over decades of globetrotting. Susan Ward Davies, who served as the Travel and Lifestyle Editor at ELLE for over 30 years, advocates for a "high-low" approach to holidays, focusing spending on elements that truly enhance the experience while cutting costs elsewhere.

One key tactic for maximizing hotel stays involves extending the perceived value of a single night. Davies suggests checking into a hotel early, even if the room isn't ready, and immediately utilizing amenities like the pool or spa. On the day of departure, guests can request to store their luggage and continue enjoying the hotel's facilities until the evening, effectively gaining two days of enjoyment for the price of one.

For those looking to splurge on accommodation, Davies recommends a strategy of combining accommodations. She suggests spending the initial days of a trip in a more budget-friendly Airbnb before transitioning to a more luxurious hotel for the final days. This approach allows for a taste of high-end living without the sustained expense.

When it comes to dining, Davies advises against consistently eating at pricey hotel restaurants. Instead, she suggests seeking out more authentic and affordable local options. The app Too Good to Go is highlighted as a valuable tool, offering discounted food from local establishments. Additionally, using local language terms on mapping applications, such as "épicerie" in France or "alimentacion" in Spain, can help uncover independent stores rather than larger chains. For dining out, Davies recommends being specific on social media when searching for recommendations, like asking for the "best pinxtos in San Sebastian."

One tip for those planning to splurge on a hotel stay is to book an Airbnb for the first few days before switching to a more luxurious option.

Davies also points out that in countries like Italy, Spain, France, and Portugal, it is often more economical and authentic to consume coffee, pastries, tapas, and even alcohol at the bar rather than at a table. This practice, referred to by local terms like "al banco" or "a la barra," allows patrons to enjoy these items at a lower price point. She suggests forgoing elaborate, sit-down dinners in favor of ordering several tapas and a drink at the bar.

In Italy, Spain, France, and Portugal, it is cheaper and more authentic to have coffee, pastries, tapas, and sometimes alcohol at the bar rather than at a table, writes Susan Ward Davies.

For transportation, Davies notes that resort hotels often provide complimentary shuttle services. If these are not available, she suggests checking taxi fares online using comparison websites to ensure reasonable pricing before committing to a ride.