Tourism
The landscape of luxury travel is undergoing a profound generational shift. A wave of “new rich” consumers – buoyed by tech-boom wealth, generational inheritance, and the rise of a global middle class – is reshaping what high-end holidays look like. These emerging affluent travellers are generally younger, more diverse in background, and more cosmopolitan in outlook than the traditional elite. Crucially, they are redefining luxury: prioritising authentic experiences, personal enrichment, and ethical choices over ostentatious displays of wealth.
This report provides a comprehensive profile of these emerging luxury travellers and their holiday preferences. We identify three key segments driving this change – Affluent Gen Z, Tech Entrepreneurs, and Luxury Digital Nomads – each with distinct characteristics and desires. We delve into their psychographics and behaviours, from the motivations behind their trips to how they plan and spend. We map the shifting geography of luxury tourism, as new source markets gain prominence and aspirational destinations evolve. Furthermore, we examine implications for product design in luxury tourism, marketing and branding strategies to engage these segments, and investment opportunities arising from this demographic sea-change. The aim is to equip hospitality and travel professionals, luxury marketers, and investors with actionable insights into serving the “new rich” traveller. In summary, the luxury travel industry stands at an inflection point: those who understand and adapt to these emerging profiles will be poised to thrive in the coming decade.
The global luxury travel map is undergoing a geographic realignment. Traditionally dominated by established destinations in Western Europe and North America, the landscape is shifting as new players rise in the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe. High-growth economies and visionary governments are investing heavily to position their countries as the next elite playgrounds for affluent travellers. By 2030, destinations such as Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, Rwanda, and Montenegro are expected to compete with – and in some aspects outperform – the likes of France, Italy or the USA in attracting luxury tourism. This report provides an insight-driven analysis of these four emerging luxury tourism hubs. Each is leveraging unique strategic advantages – from giga-projects in the desert to exclusive eco-tourism and superyacht marinas – to redraw the boundaries of high-end travel. Investors and luxury operators will find these markets ripe with opportunity, albeit not without risks. The following sections examine how each country is reshaping the luxury travel landscape through national strategy, infrastructure investment, flagship projects, projected 2030 indicators, competitive positioning, and potential barriers.
LUXONOMY™ launches today its new strategic report “The Future of Luxury Tourism: Global Projections for 2030 and 2050”, a pioneering publication that analyzes the trends, risks, and opportunities that will shape the development of premium tourism in the coming decades. Aimed at investors, tour operators, luxury brands, and international organizations, the document offers an unprecedented overview of the sector from a forward-looking, ethical, and profitable perspective.
Belmond ushers in a new chapter in exceptional slow travel with the official launch of…
Imagine a world where time stands still, and the concept of clocks is nonexistent. This may seem like a fantasy, but there are places around the globe where the passing of time is not measured by the tick-tock of a clock. These timeless retreats offer a unique experience, allowing visitors to disconnect from the fast-paced world and reconnect with nature and themselves. In this article, we will explore some of these enchanted places, where the absence of clocks is not just a novelty, but a way of life.
For years, sustainability has been the ethical compass of luxury tourism. Yet, we are witnessing a paradigm shift. Today, the most discerning travelers no longer settle for “not harming.” They seek to “leave the place better than they found it.” Welcome to regenerative tourism, the new obsession of the affluent traveler.
In a hyperconnected world, where every moment seems designed to be shared, a new trend is silently sweeping through the luxury travel industry: the desire not to be seen. True luxury is no longer about excess—it’s about carefully curated invisibility.
The West Coast of the United States is home to some of the world’s most…
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Boutique hotels have emerged as a choice to traditional large luxury establishments. They offer a…
In recent years, the concept of luxury has undergone a significant shift. Gone are the…
From private island resorts to urban retreats, these hotels cater to the most discerning guests, offering a level of exclusivity and pampering that is hard to find elsewhere.
Gastronomy has evolved beyond being a simple culinary experience to become a key component of luxury tourism. High-net-worth travelers seek unique and personalized experiences where food is not just a complement but the main reason for choosing a destination.
Luxury tourists spend an average of €1,500 on exclusive gastronomic experiences, representing nearly 30% of their total travel expenditure. In some destinations, such as Tokyo or Paris, this spending can exceed €2,000 per experience.
The combination of exclusivity, creativity, and authenticity in gastronomy attracts a market segment willing to pay for experiences that blend culinary art, tradition, and modernity. This study delves into trends, success factors, standout cases, and opportunities to strengthen gastronomy’s role in luxury tourism, while also analyzing the challenges this ever-evolving industry faces.
Luxury tourism has transcended the boundaries of comfort and material ostentation to focus on experiences that connect travelers with the cultural and natural heritage of destinations. This segment, seeking excellence in every detail, finds in heritage an inexhaustible source of inspiration and differentiating value. Exclusive experiences involving historical richness and biodiversity not only elevate the quality of travel but also contribute to preserving the resources that sustain the industry.
This report explores the importance of heritage in luxury tourism, breaking down its cultural and natural components, the strategies employed for its integration, and the benefits it generates for both travelers and host communities. Additionally, it analyzes the impact of these experiences on sustainability, education, and the local economy, offering a comprehensive framework to understand how heritage can become a key driver of luxury tourism. This analysis also includes a perspective on future trends and innovations necessary to ensure the continued relevance of these exclusive experiences.
Designing loyalty and VIP programs in luxury tourism requires a comprehensive approach focused on personalization,…
The growth of luxury tourism hinges on innovative strategies that target emerging markets and enhance customer experiences. Key approaches include geographic expansion through luxury infrastructure development and localized partnerships, diversification via customized thematic packages and ultra-personalization services, and strategic alliances with luxury brands. Emphasizing sustainability, luxury tourism also focuses on eco-friendly practices and community support. Investment in technology is essential, utilizing big data and immersive experiences. Differentiation is achieved through unique, memorable experiences that prioritize cultural authenticity and comprehensive personalization, ensuring exclusivity and privacy to meet the sophisticated demands of high-end travelers.
The sixth Maison Cheval Blanc opened on December 1st at Anse Intendance beach, Mahé Island, Seychelles. This luxurious resort features 52 villas with spectacular views of the Indian Ocean, designed by architect Jean-Michel Gathy to harmonize with the natural environment. Guests can enjoy five distinctive dining options and a Spa Cheval Blanc developed in collaboration with Guerlain, offering unique treatments inspired by the island’s beauty. Committed to excellence and local authenticity, Cheval Blanc Seychelles seeks to provide unforgettable experiences for its visitors in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations.
As the year comes to an end, we see how in 2024, luxury tourism continues to thrive, with high-net-worth travelers seeking unique, personalized, and exclusive experiences in the world’s most prominent destinations. This report details the most visited places in the luxury sector, ranked by their global popularity.
Luxury tourism is evolving rapidly between 2025 and 2030, reflecting changes in consumer preferences towards sustainability and personalized experiences. The global market is projected to reach approximately $450 billion, driven by an increasing demand for unique and exclusive offerings from younger generations and ultra-wealthy individuals. Emerging trends include wellness tourism, adventure travel, and private luxury experiences, alongside the integration of advanced technology. Sustainability is becoming a crucial priority for travelers, resulting in a market transformation. Businesses that leverage these trends while embracing technological innovations will thrive, capturing a growing, conscientious audience eager for enriching travel experiences.
In today’s hyperconnected world, true luxury is shifting from material possessions to the experience of disconnection, leading to the rise of digital detox programs. These retreats, set in remote locations, alleviate the stress caused by constant connectivity, with a significant percentage of luxury travelers expressing interest in such experiences. Participants surrender their devices for total immersion in tranquil environments, supported by exclusive therapists who tailor personalized wellness programs. This growing sector of wellness tourism, anticipated to increase significantly, not only caters to high-earning individuals seeking emotional balance but also enhances local economies through sustainable practices. Digital detox retreats embody a vital retreat from modern life’s demands.
Luxury tourism is a significant sector of the global tourism industry, valued at $1.16 trillion in 2023. It focuses on providing exclusive and personalized experiences, emphasizing emotional connections and high-quality service. Luxury travelers, who represent 5% of international tourists, contribute over 25% of tourism revenue. Trends include extreme personalization, sustainability, and cultural authenticity. Technology plays a crucial role in enhancing guest experiences. Luxury tourism’s economic impact is considerable, driving job creation and infrastructure development, particularly in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, with continued growth expected. The sector prioritizes not just material luxury but transformative experiences for travelers.
Louis Vuitton, the iconic luxury brand, has announced plans to open its first hotel in Paris by 2026. The building chosen is the historic Elysée Palace, which has served as the headquarters of HSBC in recent years. This marks a significant move into the hospitality industry, as the brand aims to extend its influence beyond fashion.
Montblanc and Zinédine Zidane present a capsule collection of travel essentials
Montblanc has embarked on an exciting collaboration with football icon Zinédine Zidane to introduce a new collection of luxury travel accessories.
Luxury tourism has seen consistent growth in recent decades, becoming one of the most dynamic and profitable sectors of the global tourism industry. Among the many factors influencing the choice of destinations by luxury travelers, gastronomy has emerged as one of the most important. Luxury tourists seek exclusive, personalized, and authentic experiences, and gastronomy, especially in destinations with unique and well-defined culinary traditions, plays a crucial role in attracting these types of visitors.
This report examines the importance of gastronomy in luxury tourism and its economic impact. It analyzes current trends, the demand for high-level gastronomic experiences, the added value provided by renowned restaurants, world-famous chefs, and how this translates into economic benefits for tourist destinations. Additionally, it explores examples of regions that have leveraged their gastronomic offerings to position themselves as luxury destinations.
Obtaining certifications such as LEED, EarthCheck, or Green Key is a process that requires planning and commitment, but the benefits in terms of sustainability, operational efficiency, and reputation in the luxury tourism market are significant. By following these detailed steps and utilizing the provided resources, your establishment can position itself as a leader in sustainable practices in the global tourism industry.
Luxury tourism has experienced sustained growth over the past decades, driven by the demand for unique and exclusive experiences. This segment of clients is characterized by their high purchasing power and their desire for personalized service that exceeds their expectations. Attracting luxury tourists requires a strategic approach that integrates both facility enhancements and the implementation of effective marketing tactics. This report provides a comprehensive guide for hotels seeking to attract this coveted market segment, detailing best practices, recommended improvements, and innovative marketing strategies.
The UN Tourism Global Conference on Wine Tourism is set to return to focus on traditions and cultural heritage. The eighth edition of the Conference, co-hosted by the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia, will be held in Yerevan (11-13 September 2024).
Luxury tourism is a growing segment within the global tourism sector and particularly in Spain. With a high impact in terms of revenue, job creation, and infrastructure development, luxury tourism has proven to be a vital component of the Spanish economy. This report explores the economic contribution of luxury tourism in Spain in detail, providing key figures, impact analysis, and future perspectives.
Amsterdam and Indonesia are the latest destinations featured in the Louis Vuitton Travel Book collection.
The Marcha SURdica is an exclusive event in Seville that combines luxury with well-being, offering a unique opportunity to experience the city from a new perspective. Limited to only 500 participants.
Europe is a continent brimming with history, culture, and of course, luxury. For those seeking…
Accor and LVMH have entered into a strategic partnership to accelerate the development of Orient…
The First UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific will…
For those seeking the utmost exclusivity and comfort during their stay, we have selected the…
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