Virtuoso has unveiled its 2026 “Luxe Report,” an annual forecast highlighting how, where and why savvy travelers will be exploring in the year ahead. Renowned as a trusted trend predictor, Virtuoso tapped into its elite force of travel advisors from around the world to share their top recommendations for every jetsetter’s wish list.
More than 2,400 travel advisors across 58 countries contributed to the Luxe Report, using their extensive knowledge to identify the top trends for 2026. Here are Virtuoso’s nine must-have experiences for 2026:
- Seoul Searching – While Japan still commands global attention, South Korea is emerging as an alternative, powered by the rhythm of K-pop, the emotional allure of its films and dramas and a creative culture continually reshaping beauty, fashion and art. Beyond the neon buzz, mist-shrouded temples provide moments of quiet reflection. Private tastings of world-class cuisine, and even simple street food and convenience-store favorites, become memorable culinary discoveries.
- Ice, Ice Baby – Push the “coolcation” to the extreme with an expedition that reaches both the Geographic and Magnetic North Poles. Navigating shifting ice and remote waters is a feat that few can claim, and the stark landscapes feel so surreal they could belong to another planet. Standing at the edge of the world, the vast silence and raw beauty stir a sense of wonder that remains long after the voyage home.
- Dawn at the Vatican – Step into the Vatican Museums with the clavigero, the keeper of keys, and wander through galleries in near-perfect silence. For Francophiles, a secret-access tour of Paris’s opera house, the Palais Garnier, or a secluded rooftop overlooking the Arc de Triomphe, presents an equally intimate glimpse of artistry and architectural elegance. With Italy and France topping the list of solo-travel destinations for 2026, and guided tours ranking among their most requested experiences, this combination of personal enrichment and expert guidance aligns with how the solo set are exploring now.
- An Opulent Odyssey – Adventure travel jumped two spots to number three in the 2026 top five trends, and few expeditions capture the thrill of discovery like Morocco’s Memory Road. This 745-mile journey sweeps from the Atlantic coast to the edge of the Sahara, passing remote deserts, rugged mountains, lush oases and restored villages. Itineraries can be tailored to individual preferences and include a personal butler overseeing every detail.
- Divine Depths – In Mexico’s Yucatán, descend into a hidden limestone cavern where sapphire waters shimmer softly in the natural light. Sacred to the Maya and believed to be portals to the underworld, cenotes still echo with ancient mystery. This is a rare chance to immerse in a living legend, where nature and myth converge to restore the body and spirit.
- High-end Harvest – Farm-to-table ranked among the top five aspects of sustainable tourism for the first time in the 2026 Luxe Report. The rise signals growing interest in regenerative agritourism. Picture sunlit vineyards in Portugal where guests learn sustainable harvesting techniques or lavender fields in Tasmania offering botanical spa rituals and multi-course dinners crafted entirely from estate-grown ingredients. Beyond farm-to-table, these experiences champion biodiversity and local livelihoods while delivering the elegance and comfort that the affluent expect.
- The Nile in Style – Cruise the Nile aboard a private yacht, stopping to uncover colossal temples, explore monumental tombs and wander through vibrant riverside villages. Each stop invites a deeper exploration of Egypt’s timeless marvels at a relaxed pace, where every moment is crafted for comfort and exclusivity.
- Real, Not Reel – Today’s luxury travelers are leaving behind staged social media moments in favor of genuine interactions that deepen understanding and appreciation of local communities. This could mean sharing one-on-one time with a maiko in Japan, joining a community-driven improvement project in Colombia or spending an afternoon with artisans safeguarding centuries-old craftsmanship in Iceland—the Luxe Report’s top emerging destination for 2026. Witnessing firsthand how communities thrive through their traditions offers a depth of connection that no screen can capture.
- Whale-timed Encounters –Whether on a small-boat excursion in Monterey Bay, exploring Norway’s fjords or scanning the rugged coastline of South Africa, whales are more accessible than most imagine. Responsible practices are essential, prioritizing respectful distances, minimal disruption and protection of migratory paths. For many, the result is a transformational encounter that reminds fortunate observers of nature’s immensity.
Virtuoso advisors can bring these nine must-have experiences to life or customize a trip to suit specific preferences. This year, Virtuoso has seen a sustained 76 percent increase in the number of people seeking out advisors through its website. Working with a professional advisor unlocks a host of benefits, including special access, customized amenities and collaborative planning, backed by expertise and worldwide connections.
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