LUXURY TRAVEL 95 favouring river cruises for the casual atmosphere , proximity to major cities and wide-ranging itineraries . Popular routes include the Danube River , the Mekong River and the Nile . Adventure cruising is also trending due to increased accessibility to Antarctica , 2024 ’ s leading cruise itinerary and its second-most popular adventure destination . Private yacht charters are an emerging category for small groups of friends or families who prefer to customize their maritime activities .
5 . At Ease : Lingering restrictions , frustrating shortages and turbulent air travel have led to increased demand for custom trips made easy . From exclusive-use experiences – private jets , yachts and villas – to booking half days at hotels to ensure they have accommodations that fit their needs , today ’ s traveller is maximizing comfort . The desire to leave nothing to chance serves as increased motivation for using a professional travel advisor to simplify bookings and enhance the overall experience .
Perennially popular , Italy remains the global favourite destination , whether for families or honeymooners . But it ’ s not simply back to basics for luxury travellers . One of the last countries to open its borders to the outside world , Japan , with its refined culture and in-demand cuisine , heads the list of reemerging destinations . Travellers are also rediscovering South Asia , with Sri Lanka and India on the must-see list for many in 2024 . Due to elevated interest in the upcoming Paris Olympics , as well as its status as a beloved destination among foodies and art connoisseurs , France ascended into the top five in three categories , including family travel . The unspoiled splendours of Iceland and Antarctica , as well as unforgettable wildlife safaris in Kenya and South Africa , entice adventure seekers .
Key findings from the UK version of the 2024 Virtuoso Luxe Report :
Top Travel Trends 1 . Family travel ( immediate family ) 2 . Active / adventure trips 3 . Exclusive use ( private villas , yachts / jets , etc .) 4 . Beach resort stays 5 . Celebration travel
Top Remerging Destinations 1 . Japan 2 . Egypt 3 . Sri Lanka 4 . India 5 . Morocco
Top Global Destinations 1 . Italy 2 . France 3 . Greece 4 . Maldives 5 . Bali
Top Cities 1 . Paris 2 . Dubai 3 . New York 4 . London 5 . Florence
Top Family Travel Destinations 1 . Greece 2 . Italy 3 . United States 4 . Spain 5 . France
Top Adventure Destinations 1 . Kenya 2 . Antarctica 3 . South Africa 4 . Chile 5 . Iceland
Top Honeymoon Destinations 1 . Maldives 2 . Bali 3 . Seychelles 4 . Italy 5 . Mauritius
Top Cruise Itineraries 1 . Antarctica 2 . Private Yacht Charters 3 . Mediterranean 4 . Caribbean 5 . Greek Isles
Top Aspects of Sustainable Tourism 1 . Wildlife conservation / interaction 2 . Staying at eco-lodges 3 . Avoiding over-touristed destinations 4 . Giving back to / supporting local communities 5 . Conservation of land / environment
Top Travel Motivations 1 . Excitement of discovering new destinations 2 . Celebrating a milestone 3 . Rest and relaxation 4 . Escaping foul weather 5 . Spending time with loved ones
More than 2,000 travel advisors from Virtuoso-affiliated agencies in North America , Latin America , Asia-Pacific , the Caribbean , Europe , Africa and the Middle East took the Luxe Report survey , drawing on their extensive knowledge , professional experience and client requests to offer insight into 2024 ’ s top trends .
For more information on Virtuoso , please visit www . virtuoso . com
ISSUE 62 2024 THE ART OF LUXURY