The Best of Luxury Travel Trends

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  1. Private resort islands – we’ve seen Richard Branson do this with Necker Island and David Copperfield has Musha Cay and now Four Seasons is set to open one in the Maldives.  What’s great about these locations is there’s the opportunity to do an exclusive buy-out and just relax with family and friends.
  2. Celebrity chef restaurants – from José Andres to Daniel Boulud to Jean-Georges Vongerichten – everyone has jumped on the bandwagon in developing well-recognized name brands – most often at signature hotels from the Waldorf Astoria, Ritz Carlton and SLS Group as examples.
  3. Infinity Pools – from Costa Rica to Bali to mega yachts – they are the rage among sun worshippers and beach goers who enjoy panoramic views while sipping cocktails.
  4. Private jet tours around the world offering the most remote yet exotic destinations not easily accessible, but made incredibly convenient now with well-planned itineraries for the affluent.
  5. Mixology – nowadays hotel bars and cocktail lounges are creating their own trends by inventing their own brands of drink often highlighted by renowned visiting mixologists and capitalizing on established brands of wines and spirits. It’s not unusual for patrons to concoct their own drink.
  6. Adventure Travel/Glamping – from the wilderness of Patagonia to trekking through Cambodia and Canada, camping is no longer for the faint of heart. Nowadays, guests can experience hot water, plush feathered mattresses, en-suite bathrooms, Michelin star meals, and other amenities while still being one with nature, its environment, and enjoying five star views.
  7. Full service spas – this luxury amenity has now become an automatic way of traveling for those who like to be pampered. Often programs include medical and nutritional counseling with treatments and therapies consisting of unique ingredients found in the local environment.
  8. River cruising – Boutique floating hotels offer clients the chance to thoroughly explore a city or region at a slower more enjoyable pace offering an array of activities for all personalities ranging from the adventure seekers to foodies to those who just wish to relax.
  9. Hotel Residences – Travelers can stay at a hotel residential condo longer and feel more at home in luxury settings while still enjoying the same services as a regular hotel. Nowadays the Mandarin Oriental, SLS, and Starwood are three such hotel chains offering this option to clients.
  10. Eco-Resorts – For those looking to give back to the community or have interest in green energy and sustainability, eco-resorts have been popping up around the world from Latin America to Switzerland to Leonardo DiCaprio’s planned property currently in development in Belize. Guests can still enjoy the same amenities as a regular hotel, but will be more socially conscious in terms of resources and biological ramifications.