Trinidad Cuba, the ultimate Spanish-colonial town. Cuba is recommended as both an ?emerging destination? and a ?destination of urgency.? (Photo: Lea Lane)
Virtuoso®, the global network of luxury travel agencies, has unveiled its 2017 Virtuoso Luxe Report, forecasting emerging travel developments and top destinations for the coming year. The report offers insight into the preferences of upscale travelers as determined by the group?s annual survey of its worldwide travel advisors.
For 2017, luxury travelers are seeking adventures in less explored areas and craving customized local experiences wherever they roam. So here are the top five recommendations for travel in 2017:

Head now for destinations with a sense of urgency: ones that are changing rapidly or even disappearing. Cuba tops the list as both an emerging destination and one in danger of losing its distinctive character. The Arctic is another must-see, with melting glaciers impacting the region?s unique wildlife. Closer to home, now is the time to visit Lanai before it gains more popularity. Seek out active journeys, as adventure travel soars even higher this year as a dominant trend. Examples: an African safari, swimming with whale sharks in Mexico or Australia, or hiking the Swiss Alps.
Splurge on an over-the-top exclusive experience: hire a personal guide for a city tour or board a private jet for an unforgettable round-the-world journey. Exclusive-use travel is a key trend for 2017, whether it is renting a villa ...