Luxury travel taking some new roads

Friday, 06 Dec, 2007 0

Some luxury travelers are taking a new direction: They are booking more private yachts, villas and jets than ever before, says American Express.

Their Platinum Travel team was formed to plan and book these types of vacations.

“Specialists reported that there has been a significant increase in first-time customers who are seeking more customized and enriching travel experiences with friends and family, in addition to frequent bookings by travelers who rent yachts and villas numerous times per year,” the company says.

These travelers are looking to spend less time planning, packing, and transporting, specialists say, and more time indulging and immersing in the destinations and experiences with loved ones.

“Whether our specialists are customizing private yacht charters in the Caribbean or booking private villas in the South of France, we are delivering unique experiences for our customers that are personal and unforgettable,” said Audrey Hendley, vice president.

She said that requests for private villas are at an all-time high, especially from multi-generational families or groups of friends looking for privacy, space and a “home away from home” with additional comforts. These include personal gourmet chefs and housekeeping staff; private pool and beach areas; extra space for family and friends; and close proximity to a nearby town or city where they can enjoy the local shopping and dining scene, as well as the local culture by way of culinary/wine tours and historical experiences.

Report by David Wilkening

David

Travel Outlook, the premier hotel call center™ Travel Outlook is an innovative, custom off-site central reservations office (CRO) service that...

We’re here to provide the very best experience in train travel. From booking your ticket, to asking us a question...

AXA Assistance specializes in best-in-class cost containment, health and travel services. Over 60 years of experience combined with a US and...

Consisting of the three Maritime provinces of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island as well as Newfoundland and...

Cunard is the operator of luxury cruise ships Queen Mary 2®, Queen Victoria® and Queen Elizabeth®. Renowned for impeccable White...

From the Tel Aviv beach scene to the shores of the Dead Sea, Israel layers diverse cultures, outdoor adventures, and...

Holiday Extras is the UK market leader in airport parking, airport hotels, worldwide airport lounges, destination car hire, airport transfers...

City Cruises is a leading operator of sightseeing, dining and charter services operating in London, York and Poole. We offer...

Virtuoso is the leading global network of agencies specializing in luxury and experiential travel, with more than 20,000 advisors. We...

Celebrating its 30-year anniversary in 2022, Regent Seven Seas Cruises® offers guests An Unrivaled Experience® with every luxury included. Carrying...

In the heart of Europe, in one of the most innovative cities in the world, at the centre of business,...

Hilton is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 22 world-class brands comprising nearly 7,300 properties and more than 1.1 million rooms, in...

Destination British Columbia (Destination BC) is a Provincially funded, industry-led Crown corporation that supports a strong and competitive future for BC’s...

Classic Collection is where travel expertise and personal service combine to create the perfect luxury holiday. Our travel agent partners...

Blue Diamond Resorts consistently goes above and beyond guest expectations by delivering groundbreaking vacation experiences through our exceptional collection of...