Virtuoso has surveyed the trends from its recent 2024 Luxe Report, featuring survey responses and intel from more than 2,000 of its worldwide advisors, to identify nine must-have luxury travel experiences for 2024.
The leading global travel agency network, specialising in luxury and experiential travel, is comprised of more than 1,200 travel agency locations with more than 20,000 Virtuoso travel advisors in 54 countries throughout North America, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East.
Here are the nine hot experiences for 2024.
Dark sky viewing
Discover dark sky tourism with a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Norway or Iceland to witness the mystique and natural phenomenon of the Northern lights. Stargazers who prefer a warmer climate can view the total solar eclipse on 8 April in Northern Mexico.
Slow safari
Depart on a slow safari that grants an unhurried view of Africa’s stunning landscapes and quieter inhabitants, providing the ideal counterbalance to the more adrenaline-inducing wildebeest migration and lion hunts.
According to the Luxe Report, wildlife conservation is a top priority for sustainable tourism in 2024. Whether gorilla trekking in Rwanda or bird watching in Botswana, travellers can maximise the effect of their spending on conservation and environmental programs with the help of a professional travel advisor.
In search of smiles
Seek solace from the stresses of daily life in the happiest country in the world, or the Land of Smiles. Bhutan’s fresh mountain air and warm-hearted locals provide sanctuary for visitors in search of authenticity and enlightenment.
Thailand is another optimal wellness destination where spiritual travellers are turning to. Aside from well-known areas like Chiang Mai and Koh Samui, Thailand offers an array of tranquil beaches and hidden oases for relaxation and renewal.
Japan: top re-emerging destination of 2024
Behold the ephemeral beauty of Japan’s springtime Sakura or consider a winter visit when ski season is in full swing and Mount Fuji’s summit is blanketed in snow. Japan’s unique culture coupled with incredible cuisine captivates travellers, making it the Luxe Report’s top reemerging destination in 2024.
Adventure cruising
Explore a rare and remote wilderness on an expedition cruise to Antarctica or the Galápagos Islands. Exhilarating and customizable, adventure cruising is one of the leading travel trends for the coming year and allows nature lovers unparalleled access to some of the most stunning and pristine landscapes on Earth.
Luxury rail
Journey from Paris to Istanbul aboard the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train. Departing in late August, this unforgettable voyage across Europe features a guided tour of Budapest, four-course meals and a live pianist in the evenings. Arrive in Paris ahead of schedule to attend the 2024 Olympics, taking place July 26 to August 11, or simply to enjoy the famed City of Light.
Special interest travel
Pursue pastime passions in a brand-new setting. The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is a must-see for gardening enthusiasts, while the Strahov Monastery in Prague is a remarkable haven for bookworms. From set-jetting in New Zealand to sambaing at Rio Carnival, endless possibilities await travellers inspired by their special interests.
Cultural cuisine
Savour generations of tradition, artistry and love in a single bite that evokes a sense of place. Cultural cuisine provides invaluable insight into a destination’s history and way of life, while also directly supporting the local community. Sample Peruvian picarones at the Mistura Food Festival, indulge in delectable street food in Slovenia or arrange a hands-on cooking class with a family in Vietnam.
Private island charter
Charter a private island and revel in the freedom of absolute seclusion with no timetable except your own. Dive with endangered species, explore underwater caves and secret waterfalls or refuse to leave the comfort of your own pristine, white-sand beach – all paths lead to paradise.
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