Luxury Travel Trends for 2015

Drawn by its rich history and culture and sumptuous cuisine, Europe continues to be a top destination for U.S. luxury travelers. And according to a new survey, more of them will be planning a special trip in 2015.

Nearly 90 percent of the 844 Travel Leaders Group travel agents who identify themselves as luxury travel advisers say that bookings so far this year are higher than or on par with 2014. In fact, the percentage of agents reporting higher bookings has increased steadily over the past two years.

Agents who specialize in luxury travel have the expertise to ensure that each client’s experience is a captivating one. Even in a familiar destination, there’s a must-see boutique hotel or a trendy new restaurant. What these travelers value most, according to the survey, are luxury accommodations (36.4 percent), followed by First or Business Class air travel (18.1 percent), unique activities (17.3 percent), exclusive experiences (11.1 percent) and ultra-luxury accommodations (10 percent).

Luxury travelers often have the opportunity to revisit their favorite vacation spots time and time again. Although they may spend more than the average American, they still want the greatest value for their money. In 2015, the dollar’s strength against just about every foreign currency makes a trip abroad less expensive than it’s been in years.

For luxury travelers venturing outside North America, a European river cruise is the top destination according to the survey results. And it’s easy to see why. A leisurely cruise provides a great vantage point for taking in the sights along some of Europe’s most scenic and historic waterways, as well as a chance to sample history, culture and food along the way.

High-end travelers remain loyal to the upscale experiences and charms – both Old World and modern – that a European vacation provides. Indeed, four of the top five international luxury travel destinations outside of North America are in Europe. River cruises are followed in popularity by Italy, Mediterranean cruises, France and Australia. Within North America, the most popular destinations are Mexico, Caribbean cruises, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic and Costa Rica.

But this is a group of travelers with diverse and far-flung interests. They rely on travel agents in planning adventures in new places, as well as revisiting old favorites. Up-and-coming destinations on their list include African safaris, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Croatia, Vietnam and Cuba.

When people talk about life-changing travel, Africa, with safaris to view stunning scenery and wildlife, is at the top of the list. However, the real destination to watch is Cuba, which was already high on the list even though the survey was launched prior to President Obama’s announcement of a process to normalize relations. It shows that there’s a great deal of pent-up demand for legal travel to Cuba, particularly among luxury travelers who want an authentic experience before the country undergoes rapid change and modernization as a tourist destination.

For help planning a trip anywhere in the world, contact your travel agent.