Every summer brings new insight into how our clients are choosing to travel. This year, we’re seeing a shift toward journeys that are more immersive, experience-driven, and highly personalized.

Rather than simply visiting a destination, travelers are seeking luxury experiences that connect them more closely to a place, its culture, and its people. From Asia’s continued rise to the growing popularity of luxury cruises and rail journeys, these are the travel trends we’re seeing emerge this summer.

Asia Continues to Rise

Over the past several years, Asia has evolved from an emerging destination within our portfolio to one of our most requested regions. What began as a growing curiosity among adventurous travelers has become a favorite for honeymooners, families, couples, and milestone celebrations alike.

It’s a trend we know well because we’ve spent considerable time traveling throughout the region ourselves, building relationships with trusted partners and experiencing many of the hotels and experiences we recommend firsthand. In fact, Asia remains firmly on our own travel calendar, with another journey through the region planned for this winter.

Japan continues to lead the way. Travelers are returning throughout the year for completely different experiences—from cherry blossom season and summer adventures in Hokkaido to festive Christmas and New Year escapes. Beyond Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, and Cambodia continue to attract travelers looking for a balance of culture, cuisine, history, and luxury.

The region’s hospitality is second to none. Some of our clients’ favorite hotels include luxury properties like Aman Tokyo, Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto and Mandarin Oriental Bangkok. These properties consistently deliver the exceptional service and sense of place that luxury travelers value most.

We’ve also been putting together some great itineraries to maximize time. Like Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, and Osaka with private guides, luxury ryokan stays, exclusive cultural experiences, and unforgettable culinary encounters that reveal a deeper side of Japan.

The Journey Becomes Part of the Experience

Another trend we’ve seen gain momentum is the desire to slow down and make the journey itself part of the adventure.

Many of our clients are enhancing their itineraries with luxury cruises, river voyages, and iconic rail journeys. Rather than rushing between destinations, they’re choosing experiences where transportation becomes one of the highlights of the trip.

These smaller ships offer exceptional dining, personalized service, and thoughtfully curated itineraries that allow travelers to explore more deeply.

River cruising continues to grow in popularity as well. Viking and the new Four Seasons Yachts are attracting travelers who appreciate the opportunity to unpack once while discovering multiple destinations at a relaxed pace. For an even more intimate experience, Belmond’s private barges through France offer a uniquely luxurious way to explore the countryside.

The Return of Rail Travel: Luxury Travel Trend

Luxury rail journeys are also experiencing a renaissance.

Travelers are embracing the romance of slow travel, choosing experiences where beautiful scenery, exceptional service, and elegant accommodations are part of the journey. Belmond’s celebrated train collection, including the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, remains among the most sought-after experiences in the world.

We’re also seeing growing interest in the Eastern & Oriental Express through Southeast Asia and the next generation of Orient Express rail journeys, which combine historic glamour with modern luxury.

Looking Ahead

As we move into the second half of the year, one theme continues to emerge across nearly every itinerary we create: travelers are prioritizing experiences over checklists.

Whether it’s exploring Japan during cherry blossom season, sailing the Mediterranean aboard a luxury yacht, drifting through Burgundy on a private barge, or crossing Europe by rail, today’s travelers are seeking journeys with greater depth and meaning.

Contact us today to stop dreaming and start planning.