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The latest and most refined way of seeing the world
More luxurious accommodation, more emotional experiences, more personal service, themed routes and stays... If travel is a pleasure, elite tourism turns the holiday into a permanent state of grace.
Although it may seem strange, the most expensive trips in the world are not the exclusive preserve of millionaires. Thousands of people who are “only” well-off embark on cruise ships and trains frequented by royal families and heads of government and arrive at exclusive resorts in the Indian Ocean or extremely luxurious camps in Africa where Hollywood stars unwind.
Luxury tourism relies on various types of customers, among them people with middle incomes who want their dream of a lifetime to come true. But whether you have the budget of a magnate or simply of a well-off occasional premium traveller, you still want to make your money stretch as far as possible.
The rising stairway of pleasure
It is a constant, referred to by many experts in the sector, and something that the customers all have in common. Better and more attractive hotels, more style, more emotional visits, bigger and better-equipped suites, cuisine d'auteur, more impressive visits... Anyone is prepared to pay for an extra point of distinction, more intense emotions or more refined service.
In this section we offer good examples of how hotels have taken major steps forward to adapt to the tastes of customers who are eager for all-encompassing sensations and not only a comfortable place to relax or acceptable cooking. Spas, celebrity chefs, spectacular wine cellars and exquisite brands throughout all the rooms are inescapable requirements for accommodation to be admitted into the circle of luxury.
The new hotel complexes are (or appear to be) smaller, their design is increasingly more carefully thought through. Privacy plays a decisive role: The chance of living in an isolated cabin or villa with the family or friends represents an added inducement. As does having a private swimming pool or personal service for your small group.
The value of individuality
Personalisation is another important factor when it comes to choosing a long trip. Journeys listed in a catalogue or standard visits are not enough to satisfy really demanding travellers. The best agencies plan the itineraries according to the specifications of the individual customer, respecting their wishes and giving them activities that match their cultural interests or hobbies.
Theme trips have become a form of specialisation that is increasingly in demand. There are weekend shopping expeditions, gastronomic routes, wine tasting classes and outings for birdwatching or to photograph the Aurora Borealis. The accommodation and its environment are in an increasingly symbiotic relationship.
Eco-trends and fashions
And concern for not damaging the environment is becoming a more important demand. We are living in an ecotourism boom, with efficient buildings of low environmental impact, harmonious living with local communities and a commitment to respecting natural spaces and the living beings that populate them. A good conscience is a selling point.
And, of course, so is fashion. Some destinations have become targets for the trendy traveller. There are various musts in 2010: see the Antarctic in the most elegant cruiser around, Le Boréal; reserve a place on a space flight; experience South Africa to support your national football team; or hike through the hottest destination of the moment, South America.
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Published in Tourist and Adventure Travels by Malena Mangas on 30/03/2010
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