Luxury travel on the rise: the growing global trend that's redefining how elites enjoy exclusive tourism.
Luxury tourism is growing by leaps and bounds worldwide. On the other hand, while mid-range travel is going through difficult times due to the global economic situation, the luxury segment is not only holding up but is also gaining momentum, as there is a high demand from travelers willing to pay for unique and personalized experiences.
The industry that continues to grow in 2025 To better illustrate this phenomenon, a clear example was seen at Virtuoso Travel Week 2025, held in Las Vegas, considered the "fashion week" of luxury tourism.
This event brought together more than 4,800 experts from 107 countries, resulting in more than 100,000 business meetings, demonstrating the enormous growth in this sector.
Luxury hotels are seeing a record increase in bookings. Photo: Dann Hotels Archive
The numbers certainly confirm this: luxury hotel bookings grew 26% compared to 2024 , and cruise sales increased by more than 9%, according to the travel specialist.
On the other hand, intermediate options lose strength over time, meaning that those with high purchasing power are seeking increasingly luxurious and unique trips.
The role of travel advisors is key to a luxury experience. Photo: Travel Logbook
To begin with, the travel advisors who participated in this meeting pointed out several clear trends :
- First, tourists are looking for longer itineraries and immersive experiences that are not just relaxing but also enrich their lives.
- On the other hand, baby boomers (people born between 1946 and 1964) continue to lead bookings, although the participation of single women travelers is also growing, increasingly in this market.
- Finally , there is a growing trend towards multigenerational travel, where entire families travel together and seek fully personalized travel experiences.
One of the industries that is growing the most is luxury cruises. What's more, companies are launching new, better-equipped ships with more exclusive onboard services, creating a world of options for those seeking a complete experience of relaxation, entertainment, and comfort on the high seas.
Premium cruises continue to gain prominence. Photo: Efe
Those who have the financial means don't hesitate to invest in memorable trips, where exclusivity, comfort, and personalization are the ultimate rule.
Luxury tourism is therefore not just a fad; it's a global trend that continues to grow and redefine the industry.
Daniel Alejandro Bonilla Martínez
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