Virtuoso Travel Week, luxury travel’s largest global event, reached a new high in 2018 with 6,071 attendees from 100 countries. This year, 125 of Direct Travel’s luxury advisors attended from across North America. This year also saw record-breaking media attendance with 80 journalists from eight countries, further bolstering the event’s reputation as “the Fashion Week of luxury travel” where the latest news and trends are revealed.
From our opening party through Virtuoso’s ending gala, the week was packed with informational and educational events. The highlight of this event is the numerous meetings our advisors had with suppliers. From cruise lines, to tour operators; hotel general managers and airline representatives, we met people from across the globe, learning about new, hot destinations and unique offerings at luxury properties.
Here are some destinations and properties that caught our attention:
Cartagena, Columbia: The Newest Caribbean Hot Spot
The old town of Cartagena is a UNESCO world heritage site, founded in 1533 with very picturesque colonial buildings and even a gold museum! From great shopping and nightlife to incredible scuba diving, Cartagena has it all!
Where to stay: Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena
If you liked Croatia, try Slovenia!
Home to the oldest wineries in the world, Slovenia is the latest trendy destination for seasoned travelers. Just a short distance from Venice, Slovenia offers untouched beauty and a myriad of activities. From hiking and wine tasting to exploring the thermal spas of Portoroz, Slovenia is the perfect addition to your Mediterranean vacation.
Where to stay: Kempinski Palace Portoroz
A Wellness Retreat Close to Home: Rancho La Puerta Fitness Resort and Spa- Tecate, Mexico
An easy drive from San Diego, Rancho La Puerta offers the ultimate retreat for those seeking to rebalance and reset from the daily stresses of life. With innovative practices for all ages and fitness levels, the ranch provides a full spectrum of wellness activities each day, delicious culinary experiences, a relaxing spa and more.
Must do: Try the silent dinner where you savor the flavors of your gourmet meal without saying a word!
The World’s Best Bar: The Donovan, Brown’s Hotel, a Rocco Forte hotel- London, UK
Recently awarded Virtuoso’s Best Bar award, the newly renovated Donovan bar is situated in the oldest hotel in London. The sleek setting offers traditional pub fare with a modern twist (including a caviar menu!) and innovative cocktails.
Try this: Indulge in their famous Salvatore’s martini, a frozen masterpiece!
With many of our advisors attending for the first time, the luxury travel market has opened their eyes to creating personalized experiences for their clients. Carrie Brio of Direct Travel’s Cleveland office says, “What I enjoyed the most was meeting so many hoteliers, tour operators, and cruise lines in one place and getting the latest updates from them. Seeing their passion for their product was amazing.”
To talk to one of our knowledgeable travel advisors about your next vacation, please click here.