Aussie travellers have sustainability and extreme weather front of mind when planning travel with one-third of surveyed Virtuoso advisors reporting clients are travelling differently or changing travel plans to offset the extreme weather effects.
The Virtuoso survey of more than 2,000 industry professionals across 50-plus countries found that climate change had a major impact on travel planning.
In our region, 82 per cent of advisors said their clients are visiting destinations off-peak when weather conditions are better and 71 per cent said clients are selecting destinations where weather conditions are less extreme.
While previous Virtuoso surveys have found luxury travellers’ sustainable practices include travelling to lesser-known destinations and in off-peak seasons, this survey of advisors highlighted that extreme weather was a compelling factor.
Almost one-third (30%) also reported that their clients are travelling more sustainably to reduce their carbon footprint.
Spotlight on sustainable travel companies
With this in mind, Virtuoso has launched a campaign to highlight preferred partners that have eco-initiatives that align with the network’s three-pillared sustainability approach.
These include Silversea’s newest hybrid-powered ship Silver Nova, Lindblad Expeditions’ 100 per cent carbon neutral status and PONANT’s First Nations-led expedition in the Kimberley.
Clients can also enjoy Adventure World’s Authentic Collection, aligned with UNDP Sustainable Development Goals; and Rocky Mountaineer’s locally sourced culinary program.
Virtuoso Vice President Sustainability Javier Arredondo said the luxury global network has been a sustainable tourism advocate for a long time.
“We support the efforts of our partners and seek to educate our advisors on sustainable travel. To make sustainability a greater factor in consumer choice, it’s inspiring to see more clients taking it into account,” he said.
“Using a Virtuoso advisor when planning upcoming holidays will not only help travellers ensure they support businesses that share their values but also assist them in navigating the ever-changing world of travel.”
Find out more at virtuoso.com