Share this:
A few weeks ago, we attended Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas, a grand annual event that brings together the best in luxury travel. As part of the renowned Brownell Travel network, we were in the thick of it as we met with top hoteliers, cruise lines, and on-the-ground suppliers from around the world. We left with valuable insights and connections to keep creating incredible experiences for our clients. Below, we’re sharing the top travel trends and the hotels and destinations that stood out from our meetings.
Top Trends
During Travel Week, we learned insights on 2025 travel trends. Luxury travel is still on the rise – up 12% this year, driven by high-net-worth travelers seeking new destinations and experiences. The event also highlighted today’s key challenges for advisors and what’s ahead for the industry. Here are our takeaways:
1. Unreasonable Hospitality
At Virtuoso Travel Week, we heard Will Guidara talk about his book, Unreasonable Hospitality and how he turned Eleven Madison Park into the world’s top restaurant. His message centered on the idea that going above and beyond is what creates truly unforgettable experiences. We thought it was a perfect metaphor for travel advising: just like Guidara delights diners with unexpected touches, we aim to craft unique, out-of-the-box trips that leave clients with memories far beyond what they imagined. Sometimes it’s the little details that make the biggest impact, and that’s exactly what we strive for in every journey.
2. U.S. Inbound Travel on the Rise
Travelers are coming back to the U.S. in a big way, even if the usual forecasts don’t show it. Virtuoso’s numbers tell the real story: inbound sales are up 4% so far this year and fall bookings have jumped 27%. With tourism fueling one in thirteen American jobs, it’s a good reminder of just how important this industry is and why it’s worth protecting.
3. AI Driven-World: Trusted Travel Advisors are Needed
AI is shaking up the way people plan travel, but it’s also making the role of a trusted advisor more important than ever. While tech can help with things like streamlining data and logistics, it can’t replace real connections, personalized guidance, or on-the-ground expertise. And with the rise of fake reviews and misleading content, having an advisor you trust isn’t just a perk – it’s essential.
4. Gen Z Travelers Prioritize Experiences Over Possessions
Gen Z travelers are redefining what travel means, and prioritizing experiences over possessions. While Boomers, Gen X, and Millennials still drive most spending today, advisors who anticipate Gen Z’s values and interests will be best positioned to craft trips that resonate with the next generation of travelers. Travelers value going home with new core memories over bringing back a new suitcase of trinkets.
Hotels and Destinations Now on Our Rader
We met with hundreds of hoteliers and on-the-ground suppliers throughout the week, and we compiled the below list as inspiration for our clients (and ourselves!).
1. Finland
Prior to our time in Las Vegas, Finland was not at the top of our travel bucket list, but we were so impressed by the beauty and accommodations the country has to offer. Watching the Northern Lights from a glass igloo, combined with a snowmobile safari, dogsledding, and ice fishing, would make for an unforgettable and adventurous Arctic retreat.
2. Belmond’s Andean Explorer
Luxury train travel seems more popular than ever, and there is no better way to see Peru’s natural beauty than aboard Belmond’s Andean Explorer. South America’s first luxury sleeper train makes for a one-of-a-kind journey through the diverse landscape. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the train’s fine dining, lounge car, or spa. Belmond operates two luxury trains and six sensational hotels in Peru, so your options are endless!
3. Laos
We have always been intrigued by Laos but overwhelmed by our lack of knowledge. Laos is the least visited of its Southeast Asia neighbors, but after meeting with Amantaka we instantly knew this country was a must-visit. The property in Luang Prabang is set on a historic garden estate with a shimmering pool and serene Aman Spa. The destination offers endless private tours and excursions, including a breakfast atop Kuang Si Falls, and is an easy stop from Amansara in Cambodia or Amanoi in Vietnam.
4. Miavana by Time+Tide
We were so impressed with Miavana, an intimate resort located on a remote private island off the coast of Madagascar. This resort would make an epic multi-generational family getaway or honeymoon to combine with a safari in Kenya. They also have an incredible offering – stay 7 nights and only pay 5 nights (with blackout dates of December 15-January 15, annually).
5. Bhutan
Bhutan wasn’t on our radar, but its landscapes and culture reminded Kelsey of her Sri Lankan honeymoon. Meeting on-the-ground suppliers inspired us even more, and we can’t wait to explore its natural beauty and rich culture. A dream itinerary would house us or clients at &Beyond Punakha River Lodge, Amankora Paro, and Amankora Gangtey.
6. Savannah, Georgia
While everyone is familiar with Charleston, SC, many have not visited the quieter neighbor, Savannah. Hotel Bardo is just under a year old and a dream. With a pool, spa, and many hang-out areas, the resort is the perfect place to unwind or have as a home base while you explore the historic and coastal charm of Savannah. This is the perfect destination for our next girls’ trip!
7. Costa Rica
Costa Rica has always been on our list – not only for its easy access from the U.S., but also for its stunning natural beauty that makes it a dream for adventurous travelers. We were especially impressed by the new Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, that opened earlier this year. Other favorites include the Nayara Tented Camp and Four Seasons Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo.
8. Hermitage Bay, Antigua
It is not often you hear “five star” and “all inclusive” in the same sentence, but Hermitage Bay in Antigua marries the two perfectly. The stunning beachfront Caribbean hotel is situated in a private bay with unmatched views and is the perfect place to truly relax. A short helicopter or boat ride from Hermitage Bay takes guests to the secluded island of Barbuda, where they can enjoy a leisurely lunch at Nobu and a relaxing stroll along Princess Diana Beach.
9. Estelle Manor + Gleneagles
We’re now obsessed with two countryside gems in the UK: Estelle Manor in the English countryside and Gleneagles in Scotland. Together, they make the ultimate rural retreat, with activities ranging from archery and birds of prey experiences to off-road driving, clay and game shooting, tennis, world-class golf – you name it!
10. British Columbia
And last but certainly not least, we have to talk about British Columbia! A perfect itinerary would start at Wedgewood Hotel in Vancouver, and then continue on to explore the pristine landscape. Very high on our recommendation list is the Wickaninnish Inn which stands on an outcrop between the Pacific Ocean, Chesterman Beach and a forest of giant evergreens. Surrounded by natural beauty, guests can set off on a day of sea kayaking, or to see whales, sea lions or bears around Clayoquot Sound.
From the Arctic to the tropics, this year’s Virtuoso Travel Week reminded us of the endless ways travel can surprise and inspire. We’d be honored to design your next journey with the same care, detail, and creativity, crafting an experience that feels truly unforgettable.
