The Virtuoso Travel Week Hot List
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Described by some as the “Fashion Week” of travel, Virtuoso Travel Week brings together more than 6,000 hotels, cruise lines, tourism boards, onsite suppliers and travel professionals from around the globe to discuss the hottest trends in travel. After personally meeting with more than 350 industry leaders and experts last week, I’ve pulled together a list of the hottest trends in travel right now.
Hot Destinations
Australia - Always a favorite on my list, I was excited to hear the buzz in the industry. Excellent specialty lodges and a long list of fun experiences for all ages make this a hot destination for travelers.
Italy – A new hotel on Lake Como and a unique vintage car journey between Milan and Florence top the list. In addition there was a lot of buzz about villas in Tuscany and unique cultural experiences for everyone from couples to families.
France - Always a hot destination, people in the know were talking about the re-opening of iconic hotels in Paris and new daily TGV train service to Bordeaux in the South and Rennes in the Brittany region.
Peru – Lots of buzz about Peru, and not just Machu Picchu. Travel professionals in the industry are excited about Peru for its excellent food, culture, accessibility to the Amazon rainforest and epic hikes along the Inca trail (including visits to lesser known, but equally impressive ruins).
Hot Experiences
Small Ship Expedition Cruises – Fewer passengers, excellent service and immersive experiences. What's not to like about that? Stand out destinations include Iceland and the Arctic Circle, the Amazon Rainforest and the Galapagos Islands.
An Arctic Safari – Clients are raving about close encounters with polar bears, walrus and whales, kayaking past spectacular icebergs and enjoying mesmerizing displays of the Northern Lights. Arctic safari’s take place in Greenland, Northern Canada and Scandinavia.
The American West – The West has been beckoning travelers for centuries and now some very sophisticated ranches and lodges have appeared in Montana, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming, tempting travelers with open space, excellent spas, 5-star dining and of course, adventure.
Hot Deals
Cruises - Savings up to 20% on ocean and river cruises through the end of 2017.
Explora Hotels in Peru and Chile - Enjoy a complimentary night stay at select properties and extra amenities through the end of 2017.
Hawaii and Mexico - Complimentary night promotions (minimum night stay varies) at the Andaz Maui, the Four Seasons at Ko Olina on Oahu, the Resort at Pedregal in Los Cabos Mexico and Andaz Mayakoba in Riviera Maya Mexico.
