DEMAND FOR ACTIVE EXPERIENCES SOARS, PARTICULARLY FROM VENTURING COUPLES
PHOTO: Northern lights in Iceland. (Photo courtesy of Visit Iceland)
NEW YORK, Aug. 29, 2016 /CNW/ — A new survey by international luxury travel network Virtuoso® has revealed the hottest destinations, activities and trends in the rapidly expanding world of adventure travel. An overwhelming 95 percent of Virtuoso travel specialists say they have seen active, adventure and specialty travel sales rise within the past 12 months. As well, adventure travel’s future is looking bright indeed: 95 percent say they see demand for this style of travel increasing in the next two to three years. All survey respondents are advisors and preferred partners taking part in the Virtuoso Active and Specialty Travel (VAST) program. The top adventure destinations gaining in popularity are:

Iceland
Galapagos/Ecuador
Costa Rica and Chile/Patagonia (tie)
New Zealand
Peru
Cuba
Antarctica
Arctic/North Pole
South Africa
Australia

Adventure travelers are broadening their horizons beyond well-known European cities to seek new frontiers off the beaten path. Latin America is especially popular, as active travelers can experience their desired combination of nature and culture there. Remote, unspoiled destinations such as Antarctica and the Arctic are also sought after by upscale adventurers.
Giant Galapagos tortoise
The top activities preferred by active and specialty travelers are:

Hiking/trekking
Biking
Kayaking
S...