Travel Bucket List – Results of the Virtuoso Travel Dreams Survey for 2016 are in!
If you could go anywhere in the world and experience any type of luxury travel, which trips of a lifetime would you put on your travel bucket list?
Virtuoso has some tempting food for thought for you. The results of its 10th annual Travel Dreams Survey are in. More than 1,200 travelers from 36 countries selected their favorite trips of a lifetime, dream destinations and preferred travel styles. See which of them (perhaps all!) sparks ideas for future globetrotting.
Trips of a Lifetime
The Top 10 bucket-list experiences the survey revealed span the globe and offer something for every travel preference:
Vacation with multiple generations of your family
People’s lives are so hectic that it’s hard to find time to see relatives. Plus many people don’t live near their extended family. The answer: gather three or even four generations together for a family trip.
Multigenerational travel continues its wave of popularity. It was also the top trend identified in the 2016 Virtuoso Luxe Report. The travel industry is catering to this demand, with activities and accommodations for all kinds of families. The biggest benefit of multigenerational travel? The memories will last long over the trip comes to an end.
Stay in a Polynesian overwater bungalow
It’s the ultimate tropical-getaway fantasy. Gorgeous turquoise water, beckoning beaches, coral reefs, and your own luxury bungalow to enjoy it all from.
You’ll revel in the spaciousness of your home away from home. Swim, snorkel or sunbathe off your private deck. Or just take in the view of the water and marine life from the window embedded in the floor. What could be more romantic?
Discover Italy’s Amalfi Coast
Italy was the Luxe Report’s top global, honeymoon and family destination, and people who have already experienced its charms are seeking new areas to explore. The Amalfi Coast is receiving well-deserved buzz for its iconic cliff-hugging coastline, compelling history and quaint towns.
Renting a car is a great way to explore the region, from Amalfi and Ravello to Salerno and more. Venture into the towns at your own relaxed pace. Marvel at the postcard-perfect views. Savor the cuisine.
Make a splash in the Greek Isles
Each island has its own character; there’s one (or more) that’s ideal for every type of traveler.
For a party scene, head to trendy Mykonos. For romance, scenic Santorini is perfection. For the family, head to Corfu. History buffs will adore Crete or Rhodes. And hikers should head for mountainous Andros.
Photograph the “Big Five” on an African safari
Many people have a safari on their list of ultimate trips of a lifetime. Plan your travels for the best destination and time of year to spot each of the sought-after creatures: elephants, lions, Cape buffalo, leopards and rhinos. And don’t forget to pack plenty of memory cards. Brush up on your photography skills before the big trip with these tips.
See the northern lights
As in-the-know travelers seek new territory to discover, the polar regions are attracting rave reviews. Especially sought after: a great view of the stunning natural light show known as the aurora borealis.
The best vantage points are from northern latitudes near the Arctic Circle and North Pole, such as Alaska, Canada, Scandinavia and Russia. The best time to go: late August through March. Keep your fingers crossed for a cloudless, new-moon night for the most spectacular show.
Commune with nature in the Galápagos Islands
Swim with sea turtles and colorful fish, play with sea lions and observe penguins. The one-on-one interaction with wildlife in the Galápagos is unlike anywhere else in the world. It’s a great educational opportunity for adults and children alike. Now’s the time to go, with visitor numbers and development both growing.
Set sail on a world cruise
Taking to the high seas for a few months at a time is a great way to see a variety of exotic global destinations. They’re typically timed so you spend winter months in warmer locales. And you’ll enjoy longer stays in cities, since there’s no hurry to get to the next port.
A world cruise is also a very convenient method of travel. You fly only to and from your departure port, and unpack and pack only once. Avoid a common mistake and don’t overpack. Life on board is casual – and remember, there’s laundry service available.
Call on all seven continents
Exploring new destinations was the top travel motivation in this year’s Luxe Report. So it’s easy to see the appeal of visiting every continent in a single trip.
However, it’s an ambitious quest. The key is to partner with an advisor to craft a custom itinerary. You’ll need a plan that fits with your schedule, pacing and destination wish list. Be prepared to make some hard decisions about how much time to spend in each locale – and which to cut entirely from the list.
Visit Australia’s highlights
You can’t miss Sydney, with its iconic Opera House, harbor, bridge, and beaches. Other cities offer plenty of attractions as well, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide among them.
Australia’s islands hold a special appeal for their scenery and wildlife. Consider Fraser Island for its long white beaches, Tasmania for its authenticity, Kangaroo Island for its pristine nature, and a sail through the Whitsundays.
The Great Barrier Reef is a must for scuba divers and snorkelers. Other adventurers will want to experience Uluru and the outback. Wine enthusiasts have an abundance of famed regions to choose from, including Hunter, Yarra and Barossa valleys.
