Today, Travel Leaders Group released its top luxury travel trends for 2017 in which European river cruises rank as the top international luxury “destination” outside North America that is being booked among its most affluent travelers.
Italy, Mediterranean cruises, Australia and France are also among the top five luxury destinations, while Cuba is now among the top 15 overall. The Luxury Travel Trends also reveal that more than eight out of 10 luxury-focused travel agents say their bookings are higher than or equal to last year for high-end hotels, luxury cruises and escorted tours, suites on cruise ships, and Premium Air (First and Business Class). Conducted November 17-December 9, 2016, these trends are based on responses from 1,240 Travel Leaders Group luxury travel experts
“As we take a closer look at what the majority of our affluent travelers are planning for this year, it’s hardly a surprise that European vacation options ? be they land, river or deep water cruises ? are as popular as ever. In fact, it is quite gratifying to see these destinations regain momentum after a challenging year,” stated Travel Leaders Group CEO Ninan Chacko. “Further buoyed by a stronger dollar, our clients are seeking out destinations like Italy, France and European river cruises with the added expertise our luxury agents provide in designing unique travel experiences. That is certainly one reason why our bookings for various segments of the luxury tr...