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| Havana, Cuba // Photo by Joe Pike |
Virtuoso just released its annual Luxe Report, which takes a look at the must-have experiences and must-go destinations of 2016. The annual survey of Virtuoso travel advisors shows that in 2016, clients will be looking to discover untouched, unique places; create unforgettable memories; cross an item off their bucket list; push the boundaries of their comfort zone; or enjoy something a little closer to homoe.
In terms of top destinations for 2016, Cuba was the dominant choice, likely the result of warming relations between the U.S. and the island nation. Next were Iceland, Croatia and Myanmar. New to the top five is Antarctica, proving the allure of a remote destination for luxury travelers.
Italy topped the family destination list, followed by Mexico, Hawaii, Orlando and England. Virtuoso travel advisors say that families are seeking active and authentic travel experiences, and they are also heading to unconventional destinations.
Adventure travelers are off to South Africa in 2016, naming it the top destination for active travel, followed by Costa Rica, the Galapagos Islands, New Zealand and Peru.
Key Findings From the 2016 Virtuoso Luxe Report
| Top Travel Trends | Top Emerging Destinations |
| 1. Multigenerational travel | 1. Cuba |
| 2. River cruising | 2. Iceland |
| 3. Active or adventure trips | 3. Croatia |
| 4. Luxury cruises | 4. Myanmar |
| 5. Celebration travel | 5. Antarctica |
| Top Global Destinations | Top U.S. Destinations |
| 1. Italy | 1. New York, NY |
| 2. France | 2. Maui, HI |
| 3. South Africa | 3. Napa Valley/Sonoma, CA |
| 4. Mexico | 4. Las Vegas, NV |
| 5. Australia | 5. Miami/South Beach, FL |
| Top Adventure Destinations | Top Honeymoon Destinations |
| 1. South Africa | 1. Italy |
| 2. Costa Rica | 2. Maui, HI |
| 3. Galapagos Islands | 3. French Polynesia |
| 4. New Zealand | 4. Maldives |
| 5. Peru | 5. Mexico |
| Top Family Travel Destinations | Top Travel Motivations |
| 1. Italy | 1. Exploring new destinations |
| 2. Mexico | 2. Seeking authentic experiences |
| 3. Hawaii | 3. Rest and relaxation |
| 4. Orlando, FL | 4. Personal enrichment |
| 5. England | 5. Spending time or reconnecting with loved ones |
Less traditional destinations submitted showed that travelers are exploring new territory, Virtuoso said. Families are venturing to Mongolia, and Iran is drawing interest from intrepid travelers in search of something new. Advisors from Virtuoso's travel agency members in North America, Latin America, Asia-Pacific and Europe participated in the survey.