Virtuoso travel means total luxury for travelers looking for that top-tier trip that comes, of course, with bragging rights. And to that end, the 2024 Virtuoso Luxe Report, shows travelers are becoming more at ease with exotic trips to far off places that ring full of adventure and offer once-in-a-lifetime encounters. Virtuoso, a global network for luxury travel, polled its member Virtuoso travel agencies and their teams of expert travel advisors in over 50 countries to find out what luxury travelers may expect in the upcoming year. The Luxe Report, released every year, sheds light on what kinds of experiences high-end luxury travelers seek.
Since many people now place a high value on time and with whom they spend their time, Virtuoso travel advisors indicate their customers are more motivated than ever to realize their trip goals. They are still incredibly curious and prepared to spend money on new experiences even in the face of inflation and world upheaval. In 2024, more than half of Virtuoso’s travel advisors questioned said they anticipate a rise in travel demand and trip expenditure.
Five major themes emerged from the Luxe Report that demonstrate how wealthy travelers are making a name for themselves in the travel industry by 2024.
New Frontiers
While many people still find solace in their former favorite spots, seasoned travelers are venturing outside of the typical European vacation alternatives and exploring new and less-traveled regions. Luxury travelers are drawn to the unknown, whether it’s because they want to see a site they’ve been wanting to see since the epidemic, because an advisor has suggested a hidden gem, or simply because they want to be the first to reach a destination. For those looking for something different from the usual, the cultural diversity of resurgent tourist destinations like Iceland and Japan offers interesting and distinctive itineraries.
Party On
Many long-delayed celebrations were realized thanks to post-pandemic travel, and the fun continues as celebration travel is predicted to rank among the top trends and drivers of 2024. Traveling with close family members leads the trends list, while traveling with several generations comes in close second. It should come as no surprise that travelers are spending life’s most significant moments with family. Traveling continues to be a vital component of maintaining relationships with loved ones, whether it is for special occasions or just to spend time together.
Honoring the Earth
Travelers who are keen to respect the magnificence of the planet and acutely aware of its fragility have been formed by extreme weather. Expert consultants claim that their customers are venturing beyond geographical limits to see nature in its purest state out of concern that it may disappear or become unreachable. Greece, Morocco, and Hawaii are also highly sought-after tourist destinations by those who wish to contribute to the economies of recently affected areas while honoring their recuperation.
Tiny Ships, Huge Opportunities
Small-vessel traveling is becoming more popular among both novice and seasoned cruisers, who prefer the less crowded, more personal surroundings., according to Virtuoso travel advisors. River cruises are becoming more and more popular among affluent travelers seeking a more genuine experience due to its laid-back vibe, close proximity to major cities, and extensive itinerary options. The Danube, Mekong, and Nile rivers are three well-traveled routes. Due to growing interest in Alaska and easier access to Antarctica, which is expected to be the top adventure destination in 2024, adventure sailing is becoming in style. A growing trend for families or small groups of friends who want to personalize their boating experiences is private yacht charters.
At Ease: Virtuoso travel
Lingering restrictions, frustrating shortages, and erratic, if not chaotic air transport have raised demand for simple tailored journeys, according to Virtuoso travel advisors. Today’s traveler is optimizing comfort, whether it is by booking half days at hotels to guarantee they have rooms that suit their needs or by using special experiences like private jets, yachts, and villas. They are more inclined to use a professional travel advisor to streamline bookings and improve the whole experience because they don’t want to leave anything to chance.
Not surprisingly, Italy is still the most sought-after travel destination worldwide, whether it is for honeymooners or families. But for luxury travelers, it goes beyond going back to the essentials. For travelers who want to escape the throng in Italy and Greece, Croatia and Portugal are becoming popular destinations in Europe. Heading the list of reemerging destinations is Japan — one of the last nations to open its borders to the outside world — with for sophisticated culture and highly sought-after culinary experiences.
Southeast Asia is also being rediscovery by tourists and in 2024, many will consider Thailand and Vietnam their must-see destination targets. France climbed into the top five in three categories, including family travel, as a result of increased interest in the upcoming Paris Olympics and its popularity as a culinary and art enthusiast destination. The allure of the northern lights and the pristine beauty of Alaska, Antarctica, Iceland, and Norway beckons adventure enthusiasts.
The Virtuoso travel report or 2024 Luxe Travel Survey found the following destinations to be top of mind for travelers and the key places they are traveling in the months ahead.
Top Virtuoso Travel Trends
1. Adventure cruising
2. Family travel (immediate family)
3. Multigenerational travel
4. Celebration travel
5. Ocean cruising
Top Global Destinations
1. Italy
2. Greece
3. France
4. Croatia
5. England
Top Family Travel Destinations
1. Italy
2. Hawaii
3. Greece
4. Japan
5. France
Top Honeymoon Destinations
1. Fiji
2. Maldives
3. Greece
4. Italy
5. Bali
Top Aspects of Sustainable Travel
1. Avoiding over-touristed destinations
2. Wildlife conservation/interaction
3. Booking with companies that employ locals
4. Giving back to/supporting local communities
5. Booking with companies with ethical standards
Top Reemerging Destinations
1. Japan
2. Egypt
3. Iceland
4. Antarctica
5. Morocco
Top Cities
1. Paris
2. Rome
3. Barcelona
4. London
5. Tokyo
Top Adventure Destinations
1. Antarctica
2. Alaska
3. Iceland
4. Egypt
5. New Zealand
Top Cruise Itineraries
1. Mediterranean
2. Antarctica
3. Alaska
4. Danube River
5. Greek Isles
Top Virtuoso Travel Motivations
1. Excitement of discovering new destinations
2. Crossing off “Wanderlist” locations and experiences
3. Celebrating a milestone
4. Rest and relaxation
5. Spending time with loved ones
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