Global luxury travel network Virtuoso® has revealed when, where and how the affluent are travelling for the remainder of 2023.
Travel shows no signs of slowing down, despite inflation and global economic challenges. In the first half of 2023, Virtuoso reported a 69% uptick in sales versus 2019 numbers, with hotel and cruise segments leading the way, up 173% and 122% respectively.
Travellers are heading abroad in record numbers with Paris, London and Florence ranking among the most-booked cities this autumn.
Going into the festive season and the U.S., Mexico, Costa Rica and Thailand are set to be the hottest global destinations.
When it comes to key travel trends, Virtuoso advisors have noted continued demand for exclusive-use experiences, such as private aviation and yachting, along with itineraries that incorporate next-level stimulation and engagement (think scientific expeditions in Antarctica).
Food and wine are priorities too. Top culinary experiences include visiting a brewery or distillery (88% increase since 2019) and street food (60%), followed by culinary-themed tours (58%).
Meanwhile 88% of travellers are concerned about protecting the planet, particularly initiatives like waste management and recycling, protecting and restoring landscapes and the usage, implementation or support of sustainable and renewable energy such as solar, wind, hydro or geothermal.
64% of travellers are committed to sustainability in culture, like supporting indigenous communities and aiding in cultural restoration of sites.
