The Luxury Group and Sotheby’s team up for once-in-a-lifetime travel auction

November 29, 2024 No Comments

The Luxury Group by Marriott International has unveiled the next chapter of its exclusive brand partnership with auction house Sotheby’s, “Iconic Pieces. Extraordinary Experiences.”

Building on the success of their inaugural offerings earlier this year, the two global luxury powerhouses will introduce new exclusive experiences for The Luxury Sales this December in New York.

Rooted in a shared vision of reimagining the boundaries between luxury travel and collectible art, the continued collaboration underscores the synergy between the Luxury Group’s world-class approach to experiential hospitality and Sotheby’s curatorial expertise across its extensive sales categories.

About the auction

The Luxury Group and Sotheby’s will auction two captivating experiences designed to pair world-class hospitality with exceptional treasures from Sotheby’s auctions offering guests the chance to explore their passions while discovering unforgettable destinations:

  • Geneva Grandmasters: A Watchmaking Odyssey Curated by The Ritz-Carlton
    Watch enthusiasts will have the exclusive opportunity to bid on an intimate horology immersion at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix, Geneva with legendary watch brand Girard-Perregaux, including a hands-on workshop with the artisans; singular opportunities to shop limited-edition timepieces; and a private culinary experience at the Villa Girard-Perregaux in La Chaux-de-Fonds, the brand’s ancestral home.

Geneva Grandmasters: A Watchmaking Odyssey will be presented within Sotheby’s Important Watches sale on Friday, December 6, marking the first time Marriott International will offer an experience in a live auction.

  • A Taste of France: An Epicurean Voyage Curated by The Luxury Collection
    Guests will check into Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Paris before exploring the country’s culinary treasures, from a guided day trip to Champagne Lallier’s historic Maison in Aÿ for a taste of its latest harvests, to an afternoon tea with Global Explorer and esteemed chef and artist, Laila Gohar, whose food-inspired works have been showcased around the world.

As a part of the Finest Wines auction, A Taste of France is available for online bidding now until Tuesday, Dec. 10.

In addition to the experiential auction offerings, the collaboration will showcase the Luxury Group’s world-class approach through hospitality, curated events, and exclusive editorial content when Sotheby’s exhibitions open to the public on Dec. 5.

Collectors and travellers alike can look forward to additional offerings from the Luxury Group and Sotheby’s in 2025 as the collaboration continues to grow worldwide. For more details surrounding the experiences and Sotheby’s Luxury Sales, please visit www.sothebys.com/en/series/luxury-sales.

Missoni and The Ritz-Carlton open exclusive Missoni Resort Club in Bali

November 18, 2024 No Comments

Missoni unveils its latest Missoni Resort Club project in collaboration with The Ritz-Carlton, transforming the exclusive beachfront at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali into the iconic Missoni Resort Club.

Through this collaboration the renowned Italian fashion house brings its signature Resort Club aesthetic and motifs to The Ritz-Carlton’s iconic beach resort in Nusa Dua, Bali, overlooking the Indian Ocean. This exclusive luxury hospitality partnership in Indonesia makes it an exclusive experience in the region.

The collaboration blends Missoni Italian heritage celebrated for its colorful patterns, with the elegance of The Ritz-Carlton. The result is a juxtaposition that transforms The Ritz-Carlton, Bali beachfront into a vibrant yet sophisticated space. Missoni has personalized each detail of the beachfront experience – from umbrellas and sunbeds to common areas – drawing inspiration from the turquoise and emerald hues of Bali’s natural landscape. Every décor element becomes a distinct piece which combines functionality and design. Guests can fully immerse themselves in the Missoni Resort Club experience, enjoying branded items such as kites, yoga mats, and other beach accessories, available exclusively on property.

A Missoni pop-up store will be present within the resort and guests of The Ritz-Carlton, Bali will have exclusive access to a curated Missoni capsule collection of signature resort wear available only on property. A first drop, already available, debuts Missoni beachwear collection, showcasing archival fabrics and styles tailored exclusively for The Ritz-Carlton, complemented by custom beach textile accessories. The second drop will be available starting from June 2025 and will feature a bespoke pattern developed exclusively for this collaboration, offering ready-to-wear styles, bath wear, and accessories crafted from Missoni’s signature raschel textile and paired with unique beachwear collection silhouettes. Each item is marked with a special tag displaying the Missoni and The Ritz-Carlton, Bali collaboration on custom textile print.

The project sets out to promote the style and iconic nature of the brand worldwide through the personalization of exclusive locations where it is possible to immerse oneself fully into Missoni lifestyle philosophy.

For more information on the partnership please visit https://www.missoni.com/en-gb/missoni-resort-club-bali.html.

Turks and Caicos welcomes new all-villa luxury resort

November 15, 2024 No Comments

Skyline Villas, the luxury boutique resort with interior design by iconic French furniture brand Roche Bobois, is now open to discerning travellers seeking a sophisticated and exclusive island retreat.

Perched atop Blue Mountain, the highest point in Providenciales, Skyline Villas offers six exquisitely designed villas elegantly furnished with world-renowned pieces from Roche Bobois while offering panoramic ocean views of the glistening Caribbean Sea.

“We designed Skyline Villas with the same passion for quality and design as we live,” said Anne Coppenrath, who co-founded the resort with her husband, Rolf. “Roche Bobois has been our favorite furniture brand for years and we are so happy to share these extraordinary design collections with our guests. We want our guests to immerse themselves in this unique design and living concept. It’s simply a joy to live in Roche Bobois.”

Roche Bobois furnished each villa with exceptional pieces from its most iconic collections, such as Mah Jong, Bombom and Bubble. Guests can experience the fusion of French Art de Vivre and quiet Caribbean luxury in every corner of the villas, where craftsmanship and style come together to create a space that feels like a personal sanctuary.

Chic design, Caribbean views

Each villa features open, airy living areas and kitchens that flow into the expansive outdoor terraces complete with private, oversized pools. Skyline Villas offer three to five bedrooms with ensuite spa-like baths perfect for families and friends looking for a getaway that offers privacy with all of the service of a larger resort.

The villas feature state-of-the-art technology, including integrated audio, lighting and security systems, ensuring every guest has a seamless, high-tech experience. In a commitment to sustainability, all villas are powered by the latest Tesla solar energy technology.

Beyond the stunning villas, Skyline Villas offers amenities and services to make each stay memorable. Guests can unwind at nearby secluded beaches, or enjoy a curated selection of resort activities from morning yoga sessions to barbecues and wine tastings at the main reception area of Villa Orbit. A short stroll from the villas leads to one of Providenciales’ most chic Beach Clubs at Rockhouse Resort, perfect for dinner under the stars.

For those seeking additional relaxation or adventure, the resort’s dedicated concierge team is available to arrange personalized experiences, from excursions around Providenciales to blissful in-villa spa treatments or private beach days complete with chilled drinks and gourmet snacks.

A Dream Destination in the Caribbean

Skyline Villas is located just minutes from the vibrant Grace Bay area, known for its stunning beaches, boutique shops, and world-class restaurants. Guests can enjoy a serene cliffside experience while still being close to the island’s best attractions. 

Next summer, the resort will expand its collection with two additional villas, Villa Jupiter and Villa Venus, further enhancing the experience for travelers.

The world’s largest sailing yacht is setting sail in summer 2026

November 6, 2024 No Comments

Orient Express Corinthian, the first of the two Orient Express yachts, will set sail in June 2026 to cruise the Mediterranean, Adriatic and Caribbean seas.

A sleekly lined jewel of technology designed by Chantiers de l’Atlantique, Orient Express Corinthian will be the world’s largest sailing yacht. Spanning an impressive 220 m and sporting 4,500 m² of sails mounted on three inclinable masts, the ship will be able to reach a speed of 17 knots propelled solely by the wind.

Designed by architect Maxime d’Angeac, Artistic Director of Orient Express, the yacht will boast exceptionally refined decor inspired by the golden age of the Orient Express and the spirit of innovation and comfort that has bestowed legendary status on this iconic brand.

“All the suites and the entire design of the yacht have been conceived as unique spaces that break the boundaries of Orient Express’s classic decorative grammar while remaining true to its very particular codes,” Maxime d’Angeac explains. “A contemporary vision of Orient Express, that of an era in which high quality is synonymous with excellence and calls for a real aesthetic revolution.” 

About Orient Express Corinthian

Orient Express Corinthian houses 54 suites measuring between 45 m² and 230 m², each one comprising a luxurious bubble offering passengers total intimacy and utmost comfort. 48 of the suites are located on decks 4, 5 and 6, while six premium class suites are situated on deck 7.

Featuring panoramic bay windows guaranteeing stunning views, Orient Express Corinthian’s suites have all been designed as cocoons opening onto the sea. Havens of peace, relaxation and contemplation, the suites offer passengers intimate surroundings in which to read, write, eat and drink, or simply chill out while admiring the view. All of the rooms are decorated with wood, leather and marble fashioned by exceptionally talented, meticulously selected craftsmen and women.  

And to satisfy all tastes, the yacht boasts five elegant restaurants adorned with warm and timeless decor, each with its own strong personality. Eight bars including a 1930s-style speakeasy, a 115-seat cabaret exuding a Parisian atmosphere with art deco overtones, a recording studio, a cinema and a spa round up the range of services available to passengers.

The marina at the stern of the boat offers a prestigious setting, far from the madding crowd, to enjoy dinners and sea activities right at the water’s edge. And for total relaxation, the 16.60 m long swimming pool on deck 6 provides a perfect opportunity for swimmers to keep in shape.

And so, 140 years after the launch of the first luxury trains and a century after the epoch-making maiden voyage of the Normandie steamer, Orient Express Corinthian continues to write history and perpetuate the Orient Express legend by adding a maritime chapter that innovates with style and panache.

Belmond reveals new luxurious sleeper trains in England & Wales

November 4, 2024 No Comments

Belmond has unveiled the Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train, the first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales, debuting in July 2025.  

 Embarking on a new chapter of exceptional slow travel, the pioneering train fuses a celebration of timeless rail heritage with contemporary British gastronomy, culture, and style. Fine dining experiences will be designed by renowned Chef Simon Rogan, celebrated for his innovative approach and the exceptional quality across his restaurants, which collectively hold eight Michelin stars and two Michelin Green stars worldwide; his acclaimed establishment, L’Enclume, is a highlight of his culinary vision.

An on-board wellness suite provides therapies designed to relax and revive and considered cultural programming invites travelers to discover the essence of Britain, offering an unparalleled perspective and exclusive access to some of the nations’ hidden gems.    

The Britannic Explorer will depart from London, offering three-night journeys with a choice of three evocative routes through the spectacular natural landscapes of Cornwall, The Lake District, and Wales. By day, optional off-train guided excursions will showcase the rich cultural tapestry, beauty, and history of each destination, and by night, passengers can unwind and mingle in the train’s botanically inspired Bar, located in the Observation Car, set to be the vibrant social heart of the Britannic Explorer.  

The routes are scheduled to allow travelers to combine two regional journeys into one trip: The Cornwall and Lake District routes run from Friday to Monday, while the Wales route runs from Monday to Thursday. 

The onboard experience

Setting a new standard in luxury design, the renowned London-based studio, Albion Nord, has created serenely elegant interiors with an unmistakable British charm, distinct to the train. Combining a colour palette inspired by the breathtaking natural world beyond the expanse of picture-windows, with heritage motifs and playful details, the ensuing environment is both tranquil and vibrant.

Each of the Britannic Explorer’s 18 cabins couple sophistication with comfort. The three Grand Suites and 15 Suites have been carefully crafted in Britain and delicately designed to make the experience of the journey as extraordinary as the destination.

Inspired by sweeping views of Britain’s rugged coastlines and rolling hills, each moment is transformed into a visual feast, whether passengers feel at home in the privacy of their cabin, relaxing in the onboard spa, or indulging in the Bar and restaurant cars.    

A NEW VISION OF BRITISH GASTRONOMY

The dining experience aboard the Britannic Explorer will be designed by award-winning restaurateur Simon Rogan, a visionary leader in Britain’s farm-to-fork movement. Rogan’s menus will celebrate seasonal, sustainable ingredients, sourced locally to showcase the richness of Britain’s diverse regions.

Each of the three routes will feature bespoke afternoon tea, lunch and dinner menus, highlighting the finest local specialties to ensure every meal is a true reflection of Britain’s culinary heritage.  

The Bar, inspired by Victorian apothecaries, provides an elegant and convivial atmosphere where guests can savor a menu of innovative, botanically inspired cocktails, alongside a carefully curated selection of artisan gins and craft beers, highlighting the finest offerings from the UK’s independent distilleries and breweries. 

Luxury accommodation aboard the Britannic Explorer starts from £11,000 based on a double cabin to include a 3-night itinerary, excursions, meals, wine and alcoholic beverages on board. For more information or to book, visit the web page here.  

andBeyond Ngala tented Camp reopens after six-month closure

October 30, 2024 No Comments

After a 6-month closure for an extensive refurbishment, andBeyond Ngala Tented Camp has now welcomed guests back to its iconic location on the banks of the Timbavati River.

During this time, the camp’s design has been reimagined; elevating the intimate and exclusive tented experience, while still retaining its classical tented feel and aura of bush romance. Known and loved for its ample wildlife experiences, which include rarities such as African wild dog and the area’s famous white lions, the camp is situated in andBeyond Ngala Private Game Reserve, which shares unfenced borders with the Kruger National Park. 

A revamped layout

A new layout and an extended outdoor deck ensure that guest tents are even more spacious and luxurious, with the addition of secluded outdoor spaces to while away the afternoon. Redesigned bathrooms will feature both an indoor and outdoor shower, in addition to an al fresco bathtub. Discrete butler hatches, outdoor screens and redirected pathways will add an extra element of tranquility and privacy.     

Similarly, the guest area underwent an extensive transformation to make the most of its spectacular setting above the riverbed, which remains dry through much of the year. Expanded decks with reticulated awnings now provide ample choice for dining options, while the lounge offers the ideal vantage point for guests wishing to spend some leisure time gazing out onto the shaded riverbed.  

Much loved by both guests and thirsty wildlife visitors, the camp’s swimming pool, as well as the surrounding deck, have been expanded. Shady guest salas provide an ideal space for sunbathing or informal poolside dining. The camp’s existing spa has been expanded, and a well-equipped gym has been built to round off the wellness offering. 

Retaining the camp’s elegant balance between traditional and contemporary, the new interiors combine local Shangaan-inspired mid-century silhouettes with regional embroidered designs and textiles, all against the backdrop of its signature granite stone and canvas. Tranquil and gracious, Ngala Tented Camp will continue to welcome children over the age of twelve, providing a romantic and private alternative to the more family-oriented Ngala Safari Lodge, situated in the north of the reserve.  

andBeyond Ngala Tented Camp officially reopened for guests in October 2024.     

Marriott brings The Luxury Collection’s first all-inclusive to Mexico

October 23, 2024 No Comments

 Almare, a Luxury Collection Resort, Isla Mujeres, Adult All-Inclusive has opened its doors to guests, marking the brand’s first all-inclusive offering in Mexico. Located on an idyllic small Island with outstretched views of white-sand beaches and the pristine Caribbean Sea, the beachside resort curates enriching experiences to connect guests with the natural beauty and culture of the destination.

The adults-only resort offers 109 spacious suites, six unique dining outlets, an oceanfront pool, an extensive selection of immersive activities and entertainment, and an upscale spa.

From the moment guests arrive at Cancun International Airport, a seamless journey to Almare, a Luxury Collection Resort, Isla Mujeres, Adult All-Inclusive begins. A swift 30-minute transfer transports them to the Renaissance Cancun Resort & Marina at Puerto Cancun, where guests are invited to pre-check in while indulging in thoughtfully curated  refreshments. Guests then embark on an exclusive private vessel for a serene 20-minute journey.

Luxury and locale

Perched along the pristine Mexican coastline, the accommodations at the resort offer guests both ample privacy and luxurious comfort.
 
The resort offers a variety of luxurious suites, each featuring a private balcony with stunning views. Whether overlooking the ocean, mangroves, or the resort, every room is thoughtfully designed for both comfort and elegance.
 
From Deluxe Rooms with cozy sitting areas to spacious Premium Junior Suites and Grand Suites with expansive oceanfront views. For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury, the Presidential Suite spans over 1,600 square feet of space, offering an unparalleled retreat. The property is situated in the most privileged natural beach front setting on the island providing one of the only places in Riviera Maya where you can see unique sunsets facing the Caribbean coastline.

Authentic culinary experiences

The resort offers six elevated culinary concepts helmed by Executive Chef Daniel Franco, where seasonal and local cuisine take centre stage.
 
The dining options include signature restaurants, a coffee shop, a poolside bar, and a food truck for quick and casual bites. Guests can indulge in a variety of immersive and flavourful experiences including:
 
●     BOGA, a culinary adventure focused on local ingredients and exquisite cooking methods, featuring authentic Mayan and Mexican cuisine during the day, and transitioning to elegant international dining flavors through theme nights.
●     With spectacular ocean views, Seasalt Rooftop blends the rich flavors and culinary traditions of both Mexican and European cuisines.
●     Botanik, a cozy and refined coffee and detox haven, where guests can sip on authentic drinks crafted with fresh and local ingredients.
●     An all-day restaurant, The Breeze Pool Bar offers refreshing beverages to guests lounging poolside.
●     For a high-end beachside experience, AlVento Beach Club features a range of food and beverage options, including fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and refreshing smoothies.
●     AlPaso, a food truck for nourishing and healthy grab-and-go snacks, bowls and smoothies inspired by the richness of Mayan culinary heritage.

For additional information and bookings visit www.marriott.com/cunim.

Six Senses is opening properties in Lake Como and Milan

October 21, 2024 No Comments

Six Senses has signed hotel management agreements with Gruppo Statuto as part of an exciting new chapter in its Italian story. Six Senses Milan and Six Senses Lake Como will follow the debut opening of Six Senses Rome in 2023 in the restored Palazzo Salviati Cesi Mellini and the announcement of the upcoming Six Senses Antognolla in Umbria.

IHG Hotels & Resorts’ fast-growing Luxury & Lifestyle portfolio now features nearly 100 open hotels in Europe, including eight Six Senses properties in Italy, Switzerland, France, Israel, Portugal, Spain and Türkiye.

Six Senses Milan enjoys a prime address at Via Brera 19 in the heart of the artistic Brera quarter, emblematic of authentic Milanese heritage and culture. Six Senses Lake Como will continue the legacy of the first hospitality destination opened on the shores of Lake Como in 1820 in Cadenabbia di Griante, an area rich in history, art, and nature, which over the years has drawn illustrious emperors, monarchs, writers and celebrities to its sparkling shores.

These two latest Italian signings also establish Gruppo Statuto as the leading Italian real estate group with a portfolio of international hotels, having acquired Six Senses London and Six Senses Ibiza in addition to Six Senses Rome.

Six Senses Milan

The galleries around Via Brera and masterpieces within the Pinacoteca Museum offer a pause from Milan’s high-energy rhythms.

Tucked away in this artists’ quarter, Six Senses Milan is therefore well positioned to take guests on a journey of discovery through craftsmanship and timeless style, from the arabescato marble to the antique brass detailing, handmade smoked glass, textured ceilings, and mosaic borders.

Six Senses Milan also showcases the brand’s deep commitment to sustainability, which flows from the materials and furnishings to the prominent space dedicated to the Earth Lab, tranquil internal courtyard, and specialty restaurant and deli featuring seasonal gastronomy.

Of the 68 guest rooms, 15 are suites, and two feature plunge pools. No Six Senses is complete without a state-of-the-art spa to administer a range of high-tech, high-touch treatments, and the rooftop bar and sky pool also make a splash.

Six Senses Lake Como

A nearby retreat for the Milanese, an inspiration for romantics Wordsworth, Shelley, and Byron, and a holiday spot for Queen Victoria and Hollywood legends: Lake Como has long been a dreamy leisure destination with a storied past and glamorous present.

Following a full restoration of the Grand Hotel Cadenabbia on the lake’s western shores, Six Senses Lake Como will blend a resort lifestyle with the region’s rich heritage for a unique retreat amid picturesque gardens, where rare plants and rejuvenated guests will flourish on the lake’s shores.

The number of guest rooms within the six-story property will be significantly reduced to accommodate 102 generously sized rooms and suites as well as more space dedicated to the spa and wellness area. The outdoor pool and sun deck will be complemented by a floating pool on the lake. Along with the specialty restaurant, the terrace bar and restaurant with quintessential lake views on the fourth floor will no doubt continue to inspire poetry, prose, and proposals.

IHG more than doubled its Luxury & Lifestyle offering in Italy in 2023, which also saw the return of the InterContinental brand with the opening of InterContinental Rome Ambasciatori Palace. Six Senses Milan and Six Senses Lake Como join 30 open hotels in the country, and an additional eight in development, including brand debuts for the Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants and Vignette Collection brands.

Six Senses Milan is set to open in 2025 and Six Senses Lake Como in 2028. In the meantime, for more on the global Six Senses portfolio, or to book a stay, visit sixsenses.com.

 

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Ritz-Carlton brand returns to Cancun with 131-room luxury hotel

October 7, 2024 No Comments

Marriott International, Inc. announced an agreement with FibraHotel, Fibra Danhos and Beyond Ventures to bring The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun, Punta Nizuc to the area.

The property is slated to include a 131-key luxury hotel, developed and owned through a joint venture between FibraHotel and Fibra Danhos, along with 126 branded residences in a LEED certified building, developed by Beyond Ventures.

Set to welcome guests and residents in 2027, The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun, Punta Nizuc will offer all the pleasures of one of the world’s most coveted beach destinations, set on an exclusive peninsula that boasts over a private shoreline.

Guests will enjoy unparalleled ocean views and access to world-class amenities. The project’s design will be led by the acclaimed architectural firms Lissoni & Partners and Cherem Arquitectos. It will include exceptional services and amenities, such as a sprawling oceanfront pool complex, a destination spa, six gourmet restaurants, and exclusive residential amenities, all serviced by The Ritz-Carlton.

The return of The Ritz-Carlton to Cancun underscores the brand’s commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences in some of the world’s most sought-after destinations.

Virtuoso identifies seven of the most popular luxury travel trends

September 25, 2024 No Comments

Virtuoso has partnered with travel trend forecasting agency, Globetrender, to unveil the Luxury Travel Trend Watch: 2025.

Working with global data from Virtuoso’s 2024 Brand & Travel Tracker Survey – a global survey of its high-net-worth/ultra-high-net-worth clientele – Globetrender and Virtuoso have identified seven trends shaping the luxury travel landscape for 2025.

Silver bullet wellness

Wellness tourism, projected to grow 16.6 percent annually and reach $2.1 trillion by 2027 (Global Wellness Institute), is seeing the rise of “Silver Bullet Wellness,” which provides personalized health habits and longevity plans. Luxury travellers are now seeking treatments for issues like insomnia, cognitive decline and disease prevention, moving beyond traditional pampering treatments to life-extension programs.

Switzerland, Spain, Germany and Thailand are among the countries leading the charge, with high-net-worth travellers increasingly favouring retreats offering intensive, tailored mind-body transformations. With one in eight Virtuoso clients traveling for wellness, demand for specialized treatments is soaring.

F**k it lists

The term “bucket list” has long dominated the travel landscape, but now, the focus has shifted to spontaneous, short-term experiences, reflecting a “carpe diem” mindset. In 2025 and beyond, travellers are embracing “F**k-It Lists” – spontaneous, fun and liberating adventures that prioritise living in the moment.

As the affluent continue to favour experiences over luxury goods, this trend is fuelling splurges on more extravagant modes of travel like yacht charters, first-class flights and private jets. “F**k-It Lists” also serve to push travellers out of their comfort zones, focusing on personal fulfilment rather than conventional tourist spots.

Moodboarding

When planning a trip, most people think of the destinations and activities, often overlooking how they want to feel. Many seek relaxation but find themselves still thinking about work by the pool. In reality, an itinerary involving physical activities like hiking may better help disconnect from professional stress. As travel designers ask the right questions to tap into clients’ true motivations, they can address deeper emotional needs, giving rise to the “Mood Boarding” trend in pre-trip consultations.

Virtuoso believes luxury travel advisors should help clients distinguish between “wants” and “needs,” curating experiences that offer emotional nourishment. For instance, a candlelit beach dinner may be less about the event itself and more about fostering connection or forgiveness between partners.

XZ beta travel

By 2025, seven generations will be travelling together for the first time in history, as “Beta Babies” are born to Gen Z parents (aged 16-30). This includes Generation Alpha (aged 1-15 in 2025), Millennials, Gen X, Boomers and the Matures. A key trend, “XZ Beta Travel,” will see young Gen Z parents traveling with their children and Gen X grandparents, who often finance the trips.

Gen Z, with 2 billion people and expected to represent 27 percent of the global workforce by 2025, is a growing and aspirational consumer group. McKinsey reports that 35 percent of the luxury travel market consists of “aspiring” travellers with net worths between $100,000 and $1 million, typically under 40 and increasingly from Asia.

This demographic drives over a third of the $239 billion luxury travel market. The challenge is catering to this new group of young parents, who often find inspiration on TikTok (60 percent of users are Gen Z). While many Gen Zs are delaying or opting out of parenthood, even a small percentage having children will still amount to millions, and hotels are adapting.

Wander women

The rise of independent travel among women is set to grow in 2025 and beyond, with more women of all ages opting for solo, adventurous trips. Travel providers are responding by offering tailored experiences to cater to this trend, dubbed “Wander Women.” According to Virtuoso, 71 per cent of its solo travellers are women, with 47 percent of them divorced, separated or widowed, highlighting a surge in post-partner or family-raising travel.

AmaWaterways removed single supplements for solo travelers on select European river cruises in 2024, while Swiss travel network A Small World launched the Solo Cruise Company, targeting women 55+. In small group travel, Intrepid Travel will debut its first women-only trips to Saudi Arabia in November 2024, in partnership with a local female-owned operator. Experiences include visiting Saudi women’s homes and female-only beaches.

Meanwhile, startups like Mom’z offer “babymoons” in Spain for pregnant women, and the Amilla Maldives hosted a “mid-life wellbeing” retreat for perimenopausal and menopausal women in 2024. Luxury providers are finding niches in solo female travel, focusing on personal connections, unique experiences and women’s specific needs.

Memoirs in motion

The trend “Memoirs in Motion” involves luxury travellers hiring professional film crews to document their travels, turning holidays into cinematic experiences and personal legacies.

Unlike the “Set-Jetting” trend, which focuses on visiting movie locations, this new trend lets clients star in their own documentaries, reflecting the growing demand for personalised storytelling and memory preservation.

Racketeering

The trend of “Racketeering,” coined by Globetrender, reflects the growing popularity of racket sports like tennis, pickleball and padel during vacations, spurred by the 2024 film “Challengers.”

Companies like Pickleball in Paradise now organise racket sport-themed vacations. Resorts worldwide are capitalising on this trend by adding state-of-the-art courts, clinics and tournaments. Notable destinations include Marbella Club, the birthplace of padel in Europe, and Necker Island, where Richard Branson hosts the exclusive Necker Cup tennis tournament. His Moskito Island estate also offers tennis facilities.

Luxury resorts like Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in France, in partnership with Lacoste, have embraced this trend with branded tennis courts and a limited-edition tennis apparel collection. Meanwhile, the Maldives’ Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani resorts added padel courts, hosting pro players through the “Soneva Stars” program.  Other destinations like One&Only Aesthesis in Greece, Bürgenstock Resort in Switzerland, and Le Grand Bellevue Switzerland have also embraced racket sports. Even cruise lines, such as Crystal Cruises, now offer onboard pickleball and padel courts on their ships.

To view the entire report, please click here.