Virtuoso’s top nine luxury experiences for 2024

Virtuoso has released its 2024 “Luxe Report,” an annual survey that predicts booking trends based on the input of its network of 20,000 travel advisors from around the world.

In a news release Thursday (Jan. 11), the luxury travel consortia highlighted nine experiences that high-end travellers will pursue in 2024.

1. “Dark sky tourism” in Norway, Iceland or Canada, under the Northern lights. Stargazers who prefer a warmer climate can also view the total solar eclipse on April 8 in Northern Mexico.
2. A slow safari in Africa, providing a 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 maximize the effect of their spending on conservation and environmental programs with the help of a travel advisor.
3. Seeking solace from the stresses of daily life in the Land of Smiles. Bhutan’s fresh mountain air and warm-hearted locals provide sanctuary for visitors in search of authenticity and enlightenment. Spiritual travellers are also turning to Thailand, Virtuoso reports. 
4. The beauty of Japan’s springtime Sakura or a winter visit during ski season when Mount Fuji’s summit is blanketed in snow. Japan’s culture coupled with cuisine captivates travelers, making it the Luxe Report’s top reemerging destination in 2024.
5. Exploring remote wilderness on an expedition to Antarctica or the Galapagos Islands. Adventure cruising is a leading travel trend for 2024 and allows nature lovers access to some of the most stunning and pristine landscapes on Earth. 
6. Journey from Paris to Istanbul aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train. Departing in late August, this voyage across Europe features a guided tour of Budapest, lavish 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 enjoy the City of Light.  
7. Pastime passions in new settings. The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is a must-see for gardening enthusiasts, while the Strahov Monastery in Prague is a haven for bookworms. From set-jetting in New Zealand to sambaing at Rio Carnival, endless possibilities await for travellers with special interests.
8. Savour generations of tradition, artistry and love in a single bite. Cultural cuisine provides 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 street food in Slovenia or arrange a hands-on cooking class with a family in Vietnam.
9. Chartering a private island and revel in seclusion. Diving with endangered species, explore underwater caves, waterfalls and private beaches.

More than 2,000 travel advisors from Virtuoso-affiliated agencies in North America, Latin America, Asia-Pacific, the Caribbean, Europe, Africa and the Middle East took the Luxe Report survey.  

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