Virtuoso,
the global authority on luxury and experiential travel, has identified the
trends poised to shape the coming year.
Drawing on insights
from its leading agencies and advisors, the 2026 Virtuoso Luxe Report details
what's trending now and what lies ahead for discerning travellers.
No longer satisfied
with luxury for its own sake, savvy travellers are slowing down to savour each
moment and curating journeys that feel meaningful, restorative and deeply
personal.
They are willing to spend more if it enhances
their experience, but rising costs mean they also want value for their money.
68 per cent of
Virtuoso advisors surveyed foresee a slight to significant increase in travel
demand next year.
The spend per trip is
expected to remain high, with 55 percent predicting at least a modest increase
and 28 per cent anticipating their clients will maintain their current spend.
The
Luxe Report identified five key trends upscale
globetrotters are embracing in 2026.
Crowd Control: Comfortable climates and the freedom
to enjoy destinations unencumbered by crowds are the new luxury. This
desire to sidestep overtourism has become the top aspect of sustainable
travel, with increasing interest in Greenland, Iceland and Antarctica. 45
per cent of Virtuoso advisors report that their clients are adjusting
plans due to climate change. Of those advisors, 76 per cent say clients
are choosing shoulder-season or off-peak travel, 75 per cent are favouring
destinations with moderate weather and 43 per cent indicate clients are
purchasing insurance to safeguard against climate-related disruptions.
Main Character Synergy: TikTok, Instagram Reels and word of mouth
all spark curiosity, but film and TV are among the strongest catalysts for
adventure. The White Lotus continues to turn its dramatic
destinations into must-sees, while KPop Demon Hunters call
fans to South Korea. Entertainment creates a natural synergy between
stepping into a story and discovering the culture around it through food
tours, local markets and other authentic experiences. This aligns with the
rise of cultural immersion – a top five trend for 2026.
From FOMO to Slow-mo: Fear of missing out is propelling
extraordinary adventures. Boomers and Gen X feel this urgency more
acutely, spurred by global environmental changes and a sharpened awareness
that "someday" can't wait. Yet once they arrive, the pace shifts.
River cruisers are requesting longer port stays to wander markets and neighbourhoods.
Safari-goers are choosing smaller camps to spend unhurried days watching
wildlife. In South America, travellers linger to pair adventure with food,
wine and heritage. FOMO gets them on the plane, but "slow-mo"
defines the experience.
Unlimited Luxe:. When it comes to ultraluxe travel,
advisors note strong momentum. 45 per cent have seen an increase in
requests, defining ultraluxe as having every detail seamlessly included.
Once viewed as mainstream convenience, "all-inclusive" has been
elevated to cover everything from private transfers and Michelin-level
dining to resort buyouts where chefs, wellness experts and guides are at
the guest's disposal.
The Healthy Wealthy: Wellness-focused journeys designed to
restore balance and resilience are the answer to years of upheaval. From
Ayurvedic programs in India to yoga-and-surf escapes in Costa Rica and
silent retreats in the Canadian Rockies, these trips often span generations,
with parents and grandparents encouraging younger (not-always-willing)
participants to step away from social media and reconnect with the natural
world. Health and wellness now ranks as the second-most requested
experience for solo travellers, who are drawn to programs that foster
structure and self-discovery. -TradeArabia News Service
