Virtuoso has released the findings of its 2024 “Luxe Report.” Through this annual survey, Virtuoso tapped into its 20,000 travel advisors from around the world to share their top selections for the experiences that should be on every traveler’s list this year.
Virtuoso’s nine must-have experiences for 2024:
- Discover dark sky tourism with a trip to Norway, Iceland or Canada for a closer-to-home look at the Northern lights. Stargazers who prefer a warmer climate can view the total solar eclipse on April 8 in Northern Mexico.
- Set off for a slow safari that grants an unhurried view of Africa’s landscapes and quieter inhabitants, providing the ideal 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. Be it gorilla trekking in Rwanda or bird-watching in Botswana, travelers can maximize the effect of their spending on conservation and environmental programs with the help of a professional travel advisor.
- Seek solace from the stresses of daily life in the happiest country in the world or the “Land of Smiles.” Bhutan’s fresh mountain air and warm-hearted locals provide sanctuary for visitors in search of authenticity and enlightenment. Another optimal wellness destination, spiritual travelers are turning to Thailand for more than the traditional Thai massage. Aside from well-known areas such as Chiang Mai and Koh Samui, Thailand offers an array of beaches and hidden oases for relaxation and renewal.
- Behold the beauty of Japan’s springtime sakura or consider a winter visit when ski season is in full swing and Mount Fuji’s summit is blanketed in snow. Japan’s culture and cuisine continue to captivate travelers, making it the Luxe Report’s top re-emerging destination in 2024.
- Explore a rare and remote wilderness on an expedition cruise to Antarctica or the Galápagos Islands. Exhilarating and customizable, adventure cruising is one of the leading travel trends this year and allows nature lovers access to diverse landscapes on Earth.
- Journey from Paris to Istanbul aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train. Departing in late August, this journey across Europe includes a guided tour of Budapest, 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 to enjoy the “City of Light,” an epicenter of art, dining and shopping.
- Pursue pastime passions in a brand-new setting. 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 travelers inspired by their special interests.
- Savor generations of tradition, artistry and love in a single bite that evokes a sense of place. Cultural cuisine provides invaluable 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.
- Charter a private island and revel in the freedom of absolute seclusion with no timetable except your own. Dive with endangered species, explore underwater caves and secret waterfalls or refuse to leave the comfort of your own white-sand beach—all paths lead to paradise.
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