Kenya has been ranked the hottest luxury destination of 2016 by Virtuoso’s travel advisors beating other African destinations including South Africa, and Tanzania. Virtuoso’s list of top upscale destinations for this fall and the holiday season is based on data sourced from its warehouse of more than $35 billion worth of travel transactions.
The Virtuoso Hot 10
At +59%, Kenya recorded the largest percentage of growth in year-over-year bookings. It was closely followed by Iceland at 56%, Saint Martin was third at 39.
1. Kenya (+59%)
2. Iceland (+56%)
3. Saint Martin (+39%)
4. China (+35%)
5. Ecuador (+34%)
6. Japan (+32%)
7. South Africa (+28%)
8. Tanzania (+27%)
9. Croatia (+25%)
10. Jamaica (+23%)
Related; Kenya Ranked 9th among the world’s top 10 countries to visit in 2016
The Virtuoso Top 10
The most popular fall and holiday travel destinations based on future bookings.
1. Italy
2. France
3. United Kingdom
4. South Africa
5. Spain
6. Mexico
7. China
8. Australia
9. New Zealand
10. Israel
“Africa continues to surge in popularity, a continuation of the trend Virtuoso noted for summer travel. With sales up 28 per cent year-over-year, Africa is the only continent to post such an increase. Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa, all strong safari destinations, will benefit from a projected 17 per cent increase,” this according to Virtuoso’s report.
Related; Kenya Ranked 2nd in the World’s Top 8 safest Emerging markets in 2016
According to Virtuoso’s travel advisors, safaris are particularly appealing for multigenerational family trips with plenty to see and enjoy for travelers of all ages. Iceland has been a growing favorite in recent years, and its prominent showing on the Hot 10 proves that its popularity is extending into the fall. China has been trending upwards with luxury travelers over the past few years. While travel there is steady year round, the last quarter of the year is the most popular time for visitors, aided by ADRs that are five percent below average. Select Caribbean and South American destinations continue to see growth, with Saint Martin, Ecuador and Jamaica experiencing double-digit increases over last year.
Data is drawn from Virtuoso’s United States and Canadian-based travel agency members and reflects future travel for September through December 2016. The Top and Hot 10 lists represent international travel only, so neither the U.S. nor Canada is mentioned. The findings were announced during the annual Virtuoso Travel Week event taking place in Las Vegas.
