The best
destinations for luxury travel this summer are not what you think.
So says Virtuoso, one of the
experts in the niche.
The travel company
has analyzed its own data, creating a list of the hottest destinations.
“Luxury travelers are making some surprising choices this
season as they shake off inflation and seek out cultural immersion, new
experiences and ways to beat the heat and the crowds,” a Virtuoso spokesperson
said.
Top Luxury Travel Destinations
The
hot 10 are:
1. Thailand
2. Japan
3. Anguilla
4. Singapore
5. Belgium
6. Bermuda
7. Iceland
8. Saint Barthelemy
9. Sweden
10. Netherlands
Sitting poolside on a luxury vacation (Photo Credit: Song_about_summer/Adobe Stock)
Year-Over-Year Bookings Are Up
Each destination has year-over-year bookings that are up at least 33
percent.
Thailand tops the list with an impressive 162 percent increase
in bookings compared to the same period last year. Japan – the top reemerging
destination in the 2024 Virtuoso Luxe Report – continues its massive rise to
popularity, appealing to everyone from anime enthusiasts to foodies. Clearly,
Asia is the place to watch.
The well-traveled are still Europe-bound this summer but are
foregoing traditional favorites to beat the heat and the masses, opting instead
for the cooler climes of the north. While traditional favorites like Italy are
seeing a modest three percent rise in bookings compared to last summer, not
surprising given its incredible upward trajectory for the past several seasons,
it’s Scandinavia that is having a moment with a 27 percent increase in
bookings.
Iceland and Sweden are particularly popular, with increases of
49 percent and 47 percent, respectively.
The Scenic Eclipse sails behind a group of Gentoo penguins in Cuverville, Antarctica. (photo via Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours) (Photo Credit: (photo via Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours))
The Cruise Industry Is Heating Up
A recent survey of Virtuoso
advisors found that 58 percent anticipate cruising will emerge as the strongest
tourism sector in 2024-2025, surpassing land-only experiences. Some of the
biggest trends shaping the industry include destination immersion with more
nights in port or overnights on land; cruising to cold-weather climates like
Alaska, Antarctica and the Arctic; and a rise in female solo cruising.
Virtuoso, in fact, recently
added another cruise line to its portfolio.
Young Travelers Increasing
And younger travelers are becoming more prevalent. In 2024,
Millennials and Gen Z are significantly increasing their travels, while demand
for travel among Gen X and Boomers remains steady. A notable trend among
younger travelers is their emphasis on sustainability.
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