2024 2024
CONTENTS
8 Review - Waldorf Astoria
Lusail Doha
14 A Life in Luxury -
Edwina Lonsdale,
Mundy Cruising
20 The Golden Age of
Travel - The Venice
Simplon Orient-Express
28 Luxury Travel Trends -
Immersive experiences
in high demand - A&K
34 Luxury Travel Trends -
Exsus - A new era
for luxury
42 Review - 5-star luxury
in Barbados - Fairmont
Royal Pavillion
48 Luxury Travel Trends
- Exclusive travel
experiences - If Only
54 Review - Meixi Lake
Hotel, China
62 Veteran fl ight attendant,
Tammy Murphy, looks
back over her career
68 Luxury Travel Trends -
according to Kuoni
2 | LUXURY MATTERS 2024
CONTENTS
74 The Golden Age of
Travel - The Breakers,
Palm Beach
80 Review - Qatar Airways
Business Class
86 Interview with
Joerg Grossman,
Hotel Director,
Emerald Sakara
92 The Golden Age of
Travel - Cunard Line - the
Transatlantic Crossing
98 Luxury Travel Trends -
Seabourn - inclusivity
tops luxury traveller list
102 The Golden Age
of Travel - Raffl es
Singapore
108 Review -
Silversea Cruises
- Silver Shadow
110 Behind-the-Scenes at
The Datai Langkawi
LUXURY MATTERS 2024 | 3
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DESIGN A LIFE
YOU LOVE....
Welcome to our fourth Luxury edition of Travel Matters!
LUXURY - What a wonderful word! In previous editions of our luxury supplement, we
asked a number of travel agents what their personal idea of luxury was and we got
a huge variety of answers. Clearly luxury is very subjective and the concept varies
dramatically from person to person and that is the beauty of it.
In the travel industry, agents have the opportunity to sell the dream to clients -
whatever that dream might be - and use their skill, expertise and product knowledge
to help clients looking for that luxurious trip, whether it’s for a special occasion,
birthday or anniversary.
Agents can also add value to the client booking experience. The personal touch and
attention to detail is hugely valued by clients in the luxury market - asking all the right
questions, advising on upgrades, VIP transfers, and special experiences whilst away.
So read through our luxury supplement at your leisure and take a look at the
incredible products and experiences on offer. Hopefully you will be able to book
your clients a luxury holiday of a lifetime!
Andrea , Gary & Hilary
Qsuite. World’s Best
Business Class
Experience the world’s most memorable
destinations with an unforgettable
journey in the ten-time winner of
the World’s Best Business Class,
as recognised at Skytrax 2024.
qatarairways.com
G A R Y
REVIEWS...
Waldorf Astoria
Lusail Doha
The Lusail area sits 14 miles North of Doha
city centre and only a 27 minute drive to
Hamad International Airport.
The Waldorf Astoria Lusail is a five-star hotel
that offers tranquillity in the heart of Lusail.
With a private beachfront setting on the
warm calm waters of the Arabian Gulf, the
hotel boasts spectacular surroundings and
views whilst offering that world renowned
Qatari hospitality with its luxury services and
facilities that any top class resort would be
proud of.
Perfect for families, couples or a stopover to
enjoy all that Doha and Qatar have to offer.
Given that more cruise lines are choosing
to homeport their ships in Doha during our
winter months, this would be a perfect hotel
choice for a pre and/or post cruise stay. Day
temperatures in February did not exceed 24
degrees and did not dip below 16 degrees.
The rooms were beautifully and thoughtfully
appointed. The bathroom was stunning and
the rooms offered every modern amenity.
8 | LUXURY MATTERS 2024
Choose a room overlooking the Gulf of
Arabia and then sit back on your balcony
and enjoy the superb views and weather.
A few minutes walk away from the hotel
was the stunning Place Vendome Mall with
fi rst class shopping and eating venues.
The service was superb. I went
down to the beach area and
within minutes one of the
staff brought me a cool box
containing ice and bottles of
water. They also came around
offering orange juice. A highly
recommended hotel.
HOTEL AMENITIES
• 429 rooms and residences with
beautiful sea and garden views
• The Wadi Lusail Waterpark
• ESPA Life - a pioneering
wellbeing centre
• Fit-For-Life, a state of the art
workout terrace
• Seven fi ne dining restaurants
and lounges
• Children’s and teens cubs
LUXURY MATTERS 2024 | 9
The Maldives Icon
Baros Maldives is an award-winning, locally owned luxury private island resort located just a
25-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport on Malé. Home to 75 exquisite
villas, this haven of powdery white-sand beaches is surrounded by a vibrant turquoise lagoon and
a world-class house reef. A pioneer in Maldivian tourism and renowned for its authentic spirit,
legendary service, outstanding comfort and understated elegance, Baros is The Maldives Icon.
Experience the essence of authentic Maldivian luxury hospitality at Baros Maldives.
We’re frequently able to negotiate savings and special offers to pass on to our travel agent partners.
Contact our luxury travel specialists to discover what’s available.
Story of a Small Island
Discover the hidden gem of the Maldives at Milaidhoo, where serene luxury meets the vibrant
charm of the Indian Ocean. Nestled in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this boutique island
paradise invites you to unwind in elegant villas, savour world-class dining and immerse yourself in
authentic Maldivian culture. Whether you are seeking relaxation or adventure, Milaidhoo promises
an unforgettable escape, offering tailored experiences that leave every traveller longing
for more. Embark on your dream journey today.
Sold exclusively through travel agents
01625 591 111 | [email protected]
An Adventure Guide to The Seychelles IslandsWhen most people think of the
satellites. Discover the wild nature of flat
Seychelles, they think of a luxurious
coral islands like Bird and Denis to the
and exotic beach destination. While it is
north, and remote tropical getaways like
certainly that, the Seychelles also offers
Frégate, Desroches, and Alphonse. With 41
plenty of adventure for travellers who are
granitic islands and 74 low-lying sand cays,
looking for something more exhilarating
the archipelago offers diverse experiences.
from their Indian Ocean getaway.
Accommodations range from rustic lodges
to exclusive hotels, all offering fishing,
It has for many centuries been a living
swimming, snorkelling, diving, trekking,
museum of natural history and a sanctuary
cruising, and nature watching.
for some of the rarest harmless species of
flora and fauna on earth. All in all, it is an
Island-Hopping
exciting destination for not only for eco-
Island-hopping in Seychelles offers a diverse
tourists, naturalists and ornithologists but
adventure. Visit the main islands of Mahé,
for children and families as well. From
Praslin, and La Digue, and explore their
tropical jungle hiking to waterfalls to island
satellites. Discover the wild nature of flat
hopping to snorkelling and scuba diving,
coral islands like Bird and Denis to the
there is something for every thrill-seeker in
north, and remote tropical getaways like
this beautiful corner of the world. If you’re
Frégate, Desroches, and Alphonse. With 41
looking for an amazing adventure travel
granitic islands and 74 low-lying sand cays,
destination, the Seychelles should be at the
the archipelago offers diverse experiences.
top of your list!
Accommodations range from rustic lodges
to exclusive hotels, all offering fishing,
Island-Hopping
swimming, snorkelling, diving, trekking,
Island-hopping in Seychelles offers a diverse
cruising, and nature watching.
adventure. Visit the main islands of Mahé,
Praslin, and La Digue, and explore their
Water Sports
Seychelles’ warm, turquoise waters are
ideal for water sports. Beau Vallon Bay
on Mahé Island is perfect for paragliding,
water skiing, jet skiing, banana rides, and
windsurfing. Surfing and kite-surfing are
niche activities; bring your own kit. Water
sport centers and hotels offer snorkelling
equipment and canoes. Deep-sea fishing is
available, with catches like marlin, sailfish,
and tuna. Dive centers offer both granite
and coral reef diving, where marine life
includes dolphins, rays, turtles, reef fish, and
the seasonal appearance of whale sharks.
Hiking & Nature Trails
The archipelago offers plenty of
opportunities for hikers to explore the
lush tropical jungle and stunning nature
trails that can be found on many of the
Seychelles islands. There are a number of
well-marked hiking trails that will take you
through some amazing scenery, including
rainforests, waterfalls, and breathtaking
vistas overlooking pristine beaches and coral
reefs. One notable hike is the Morne Blanc
Nature Trail in Morne Seychellois National
Park on the island of Mahé and other popular
hikes include La Digue’s Nid d’Aigle trail and
Praslin’s Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve.
Sailing & Cruising
Seychelles’ climate and location outside the
cyclone belt make it ideal for sailing and
cruising. The archipelago offers stunning
marine panoramas, easy sailing distances,
and secluded bays. Hire single hulls or
catamarans, either skippered or bare-boat,
and explore the Inner or Outer Islands.
Sailing is a year-round activity, although
the southeast trades from May to September
bring stronger winds and rougher seas.
Seychelles offers a wealth of adventure
activities in a stunning natural setting
that will simply take your breath away.
Whether island-hopping, engaging in water
sports, horseback riding, hiking, zip lining,
rock climbing, or sailing, the archipelago
provides diverse experiences for adventure
lovers. With its blend of natural beauty,
diverse activities, and rich cultural heritage,
Seychelles is a paradise for adventurers
in search of authentic experiences and the
memories of a lifetime.
For more information contact:
Tourism Seychelles
[email protected] | www.seychelles.com
Seychelles Training Platform, please visit https://
training.seychelles.com/
A LIFE
IN LUXURY...
EDWINA LONSDALE
Managing Director,
Mundy Cruising
As a 40 year veteran of the travel industry
(how did that happen?) I have seen a
few changes over the years as cruise has
developed, matured, and in fact completely
transformed the way in which luxury
travellers journey by sea.
Just as in other areas of hospitality and
indeed our basic lifestyles, our expectations
have completely changed over the past 40
years, and our view of what is a necessary
creature comfort has now moved
on considerably.
Things like goose down pillows and duvets,
high thread-count linens, super king
mattresses, premium scented toiletries,
widescreen smart TVs, excellent Wi-Fi
connectivity and more, simply didn’t feature
in the conversation all those years ago.
Likewise, a range of dining venues and
speciality restaurants suiting today’s eclectic
tastes and more sophisticated palates,
not to mention state of the art fitness
equipment and all the very latest wellness
obsessions, all reflect the way in which
society itself is constantly redefining what
can be considered ‘luxury’ and what is a
bare necessity.
But what hasn’t changed is the basic
requirement for excellent service –
although again following current fashions,
the style has moved from grand siècle
obsequiousness to a much lighter touch of
attention to detail.
What this means is that excellent service
can be delivered in a whole variety of
surroundings and styles.
The core luxury is that the service staff
have the time to fixate on what will make
you happy and the empathy to understand
your particular touch points: to achieve
this you need a great staff to passenger
ratio; a hands-on training programme that
recognises a great attitude at the time of
recruitment, and can develop that into high
touch personalised service consistent with
the brand.
14 | LUXURY MATTERS 2024
Everyone will have their own memory of a
piece of excellent service and each memory
will be completely different. The consistency
will be the fact that someone, without
prompting, created a magic moment in your
life that made you feel recognised and
cared for.
One of my magic moments took place on
board the Crystal Esprit in the Adriatic. We
were travelling with friends and had lingered
on deck to enjoy the evening sunshine,
when the other guests left to get ready for a
pre-dinner cocktail party. They were serving
caviar in the lounge, and one of the waiters,
noticing we weren’t there, came looking for
us on deck, bringing the cocktail party to us
in the form of drinks and snacks….
On another occasion, owing to a flight that
went tech, we missed our ship, catching up
in a remote beach location the following
day. We arrived by taxi, overheated and
dishevelled, the ship bobbing in the bay
but not a tender to be seen. A sharp-eyed
individual on the bridge spotted us and
in no time a boat had been lowered to
come and collect us. The driver – the
captain himself!
The style of a brand and the type of service
it delivers, actually manages to survive intact
through changes of leadership – unless there
are financial considerations in place.
Having said that, a new President or CEO
can breathe new life into a stale proposition,
restoring its former glories through the
charismatic and instinctive understanding of
the product’s building blocks.
My favourites over the years: the gentle
formality of Royal Viking Line, the
unpretentious grace of Seven Seas Cruise
Line’s Song of Flower, the charming family
style of Crystal – magically recreated in its
new iteration.
If there is room for improvement anywhere,
it lies with the areas that are out of the cruise
line’s control: lacklustre shore excursions,
seedy embarkation halls peopled with
power crazy jobsworths, early drop-offs at
overheated airports... A shame, because
why would you allow first impressions to be
underwhelming, last impressions to be ‘they
can’t wait to see the back of us….’ Cracking
that challenge would be a gamechanger.
LUXURY MATTERS 2024 | 15
JOIN US ON OUR REIMAGINED SHIPS FOR A VOYAGE OF A LIFETIME
FOR RESERVATIONS OR INFORMATION, CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL ADVISOR,
VISIT CRYSTALCRUISES.COM OR CALL 0808 178 3396. PART OF ABERCROMBIE & KENT TRAVEL GROUP.
Discover the most luxurious All-Inclusive
in Riviera Maya, for VIP families.
A hotel within the hotel, specially designed for VIP families. Beachfront hotel located in Riviera Maya. Direct access to the white sand beaches with coral reels. Only 12 miles from the airport. The exclusive Family Selection facilities have been completely refurbished for 2023 and offer unique spaces for families. 169 renovated suites with
customized minibar, mini robes, slippers and a wish list to customise
their stay with exclusive complimentary toiletries, among other.
Enjoy an exclusive selection of international cuisine with Dine Around.
This exclusive program allows guest to sample 14 restaurants and 17 bars available at any of the Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts. Family Selection guests have exclusive access to some facilities like The
Nest restaurant, Es Niu pool bar and Sand Castle Beach bar.
Access to 4 swimming pools in the whole resort (1 is exclusive for
Family selection guests), direct access to the beach and a wide selection of sports and water activities.
· Bravo Dinner & Dance Experience, discover Mexico through gastronomy during a delicious à la carte dinner, in a fun atmosphere
with live dancing and singing shows where you will enjoy an incredible experience full of music, party and many surprises.
·Extra charge and under reservation.
· Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness. Hydrotherapy area with pool, hot tub, steam baths, wet and dry sauna, and waterfalls. Exclusive spa treatments and massages for the entire body. Gym area with cutting-edge facilities, lockers and air-conditioning.
· Services with extra charge and under reservation.
For more information,
visit PALLADIUMHOTELGROUP.COM
or contact your favourite travel agency.
THE GOLDEN AGE OF TRAVEL
THE VENICE SIMPLON ORIENT-EXPRESS
- THE WORLD’S MOST CELEBRATED TRAIN
Few products evoke and
celebrate ‘The Golden Age
of Travel’ as does the Orient-
Express. For over a century it was
synonymous with the ultimate in
luxury travel – oozing glamour,
romance, excitement and intrigue.
Its last run in 1977, caused by the rise of
cheap air travel in Europe, caught the
interest of James Sherwood - founder
of Orient-Express Hotels - and he was
determined to bring it back into service.
He managed to track down over thirty 1920’s
carriages, many in a state of dilapidation,
fi ve years later and at a cost of US $16m.
The vintage sleepers, Pullmans and
restaurant cars were lovingly restored to
their original glory, elegance, splendour
and art deco chic.
The train ran again in 1982 - attracting
worldwide publicity and you can still travel
on her today. Also known as “The Train of
Kings” or “The King of Trains”, the Orient
Express offers some of the most romantic
journeys in the world.
20 | LUXURY MATTERS 2024
Cruise lines and travel agents have seen the
opportunity with the train - creating packages
involving a one way journey to or from Venice on
the train to then embark on a luxury ocean cruise
- is there a better travel combination?
The marketing plan for the train was to suggest
an experience of special quality and exclusivity,
of a time when travel was glamorous and perfect
service was taken for granted. The theme
became ‘We have restored The Art of Travel’.
Established by the Belgian Georges
Nagelmackers in 1883, it quickly set the standard
for luxury travel - carrying royalty and the high
society from London and Paris to the East. By
the 1920’s and 1930’s the glory years of the
service attracted movie stars, the glitterati and
entertainers who regularly travelled and partied
on board.
Stories of excess on board have become the
stuff of legend. People taking the whole train for
their friends; movie stars travelling with massive
entourages and luggage; body guards stationed
outside the sleeping compartments all night –
the list goes on and on.
Today a trip on the Venice Simplon Orient-
Express may well be at the top of many a
bucket list – whether it’s for a honeymoon,
special anniversary or birthday, or just to say -
‘We travelled on the Orient-Express!’
LUXURY MATTERS 2024 | 21
SPECIALISTS IN
We are a multi-award-winning luxury operator who specialise in 5 Star
resorts and unique handpicked properties worldwide. We are experts
in crafting bespoke travel itineraries, tailored to suit your customer. We
are passionate about the travel trade and pride ourselves in offering a
first class, yet personal service.
ARABIA | ASIA | INDIAN OCEAN | EUROPE
AUSTRALASIA | USA & CANADA
CARIBBEAN & MEXICO | SOUTH AFRICA
CRUISE | TOURING | WEDDING & HONEYMOONS
RAIL | SELF DRIVE
Call our luxury travel specialists on
0141 955 4000
Book by
29 Oct 2024
Sail into Savings
of up to 15%
on select
2024-2026
cruises and
expeditions
Your clients may enjoy extraordinary destinations,
authentic experiences, personalised service, and fi ne
dining on board Seabourn’s intimate ships, with their
private, yacht-like atmosphere.
They may sail on hand-crafted cruises to hidden harbours
and off -the-beaten-path ports in the Mediterranean,
Northern Europe, Alaska, and beyond. Or embark on
an expedition to the Arctic, South Pacifi c of Australia’s
Kimberley, connecting with the incredible wildlife,
landscapes, and cultures that make these regions so special.
On board their ultra-luxury home at sea, they’ll delight in
unique and personal ‘Seabourn Moments’ they’ll cherish
forever, moments that stay with our guests long after their
voyage ends.
● Intimate ships with a private
yacht-like atmosphere.
● Intuitive, personalised service
provided by team passionate
about exceeding guests
expectations.
● Welcome Champagne and
complimentary in-suite bar
stocked with your clients’
preferences.
THE SEABOURN ALL-INCLUSIVE DIFFERENCE
● All ocean-front suites
● Complimentary premium
luxuriously appointed, most
spirits and fi ne wines
with a private veranda.
available on board at all
● Curated voyages to all seven
times.
continents delivering award-
● World-class dining and
winning authentic experiences.
culinary experiences that
● Tipping is neither required,
rival the fi nest restaurants
nor expected.
anywhere, all complimentary
guests dine where, and with
● Complimentary WI-FI.
whom they wish.
Here are just a few offers
7-Day Greece & Dalmatian Delights
22 Jun; 3* Aug; 5 Oct 2025
SEABOURN ENCORE
Piraeus (Athens) to Fusina (Venice)
Cruise from: was £3,599pp
NOW £3,299*pp | Inclusive Air
Visits: Monemvasia (Greece); Katakolon (Olympia);
Dubrovnik (Croatia); Hvar; Rovinj
*Lead fare based on 3/8/24
13-Day Spectacular Svalbard
& Greenland Expedition
18 May 2025 | SEABOURN VENTURE
Reykjavik to Edinburgh
Cruise from: was £10,999pp
NOW £9,269pp | Fly/cruise please ask
Visits: Flatey (Iceland); Akureyri; Jan Mayen Island
(Norway); Exploring East Greenland Ice Edge;
5-day Svalbard Experience; Longyearbyen. Charter
fl ight to Edinburgh.
• 5-day Svalbard Experience
14-Day Exotic Caribbean in Depth
4, 18* Jan; 15 Feb; 1 Mar 2025
SEABOURN OVATION
Roundtrip Barbados
Cruise from: was £6,299pp
NOW £5,669pp | Fly/cruise please ask
Visits: Rodney Bay (St Lucia); Castries; Terre-de-Haut
(Iles des Saintes); St Johns Antigua; Jost van Dyke;
Carambola Beach^ (St Kitts & Nevis); Philipsburg (St
Maarten); Sopers Hole (Frenchmans Cay); Carambola
Beach^; Fort-de-France (Martinique); Port Elizabeth
(Bequia); St Georges (Grenada).
• ^Seabourn’s Caviar on the Surf Beach Party
*Lead fare based on 18/1/25 ^ weather permitting
Discover the Extraordinary at seabourn.com
Reservations by Phone | Call 0344 338 8615 or book through POLAR Online
Contact your Seabourn Business Development Team | email: [email protected]
Visit GoSeabourn.com.
Your Resource for Selling the World’s Finest Ultra-Luxury Travel Experience
‘Sail into Savings’ applies to select 2024-2026 itineraries. Terms and conditions apply.
Visit seabourn.com. All lead prices include savings and are subject to availability at the time of booking.
U N B E L I E VA B L E U N B E L I E VA B L E
&
U N FO R G E T TA B L E U N FO R G E T TA B L E
We invite your clients to indulge in unparalleled luxury or unwind
in charming intimacy. Nassau & Paradise Island boasts a tapestry
of unique hotels and world-renowned resorts. Whether seeking the
tranquility of laid-back island vibes or once-in-a-lifetime adventures,
one constant remains – the legendary Bahamian hospitality.
With a daily direct British Airways service from London Heathrow
and new JetBlue service from Edinburgh to New York to make
the perfect twin-centre, your clients next unforgettable holiday
is only a short flight away.
N a ss a u Pa ra d i s e I s l a n d .co m
L U X U R Y T R A V E L T R E N D S
BESPOKE, IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES
IN HIGH DEMAND - ABERCROMBIE & KENT
The luxury market has shifted dramatically, with a growing emphasis on
authenticity, sustainability, and meaningful connections. The defi nition
of luxury has evolved beyond opulence, focusing instead on personal,
bespoke experiences that resonate with discerning travellers.
At Abercrombie & Kent, we’ve seen
increased interest in our philanthropy
projects, with clients engaging in 55
initiatives worldwide, from providing safe
drinking water in Kenya to supporting
cardiovascular research in Egypt. This shift
towards giving back to local communities is
a trend we hope endures.
Bespoke, immersive experiences are in high
demand. Today’s luxury travellers seek more
than just stunning destinations; they desire
deep connections to culture, history, and
people. We are increasingly seeing clients
wanting to discover lesser-known locales
with a trusted tour operator. This trend
has driven interest in destinations, such as
Uzbekistan, where Cox & Kings has seen an
82% increase in bookings.
Sustainability is now a cornerstone of
luxury, with travellers favouring eco-friendly
accommodation and carbon-neutral
travel options. Destinations like Costa
Rica and Iceland continue to attract the
environmentally conscious traveller, while
we have seen increased demand from
Cox & Kings clients wishing to travel by
rail, both from the UK and within their
itineraries overseas.
28 | LUXURY MATTERS 2024
Privacy and personalisation have also
become paramount. Exclusive experiences,
from private villas to custom itineraries, are
increasingly sought after. A&K’s new range of
Private Estates offers a unique opportunity to
experience the good life depicted in shows
like Succession and White Lotus.
Expedition cruising remains popular,
combining the luxury of a fl oating hotel
with access to remote landscapes and
adventurous activities, from Antarctica to
Papua New Guinea.
Looking forward, these trends will continue
to redefi ne luxury travel, driving innovation
and offering extraordinary experiences that
truly indulge the senses.
LUXURY MATTERS 2024 | 29
THE NEW ERA OF FLYING
More personal. More individual. Lufthansa Allegris!
More comfort, more privacy, more experience –
and a variety of ways to personalise your or your
customers’ journey. That’s Lufthansa Allegris.
From Economy Class and Premium Economy
Class to Business Class and First Class:
Lufthansa Allegris takes flying to a new level
across all classes. Whether you’re travelling on
business or for pleasure, alone, with your family
or with colleagues, Lufthansa Allegris is our
promise to continue to focus on the needs of
all our passengers.
Welcome to the new era of flying. Welcome to
Lufthansa Allegris.
First Class
Close the door. Arrive. Feel refreshed. In the
new Lufthansa First Class, flying becomes more
personal than ever before. The spacious suites
with their almost ceiling-height partitions and
doors, promise maximum privacy and first-class
comfort.
Business Class
Five different seating options tailored to the
individual wishes and needs of passengers –
making flying more comfortable than ever before.
Additional amenities, such as partitions that are
at least 114 cm/3 ft 9 in high, and direct access
to the aisle ensure even more privacy on board.
Premium Economy Class
Lufthansa Premium Economy Class sets new
standards. Significantly greater comfort and many
small amenities offer more space for individual
travel experiences. Thanks to their special design,
all seats have a discreet privacy screen – ideal
for working, eating, and relaxing.
Economy Class
The new Lufthansa Economy Class offers
passengers just the flexibility and the extras that
they want for a relaxing flight. The ergonomic and
spacious latest-generation seats with their many
smart details ensure a pleasant travel experience
on long-haul flights.
Discover Lufthansa Allegris now:
theperfectmatch-lufthansagroup.com/en
Experience
island life
in luxury
A Sanctuary
for the Senses.
Step into Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, one of
Maldives’ premier resorts, where the allure of a
luxury barefoot tropical paradise awaits. Nestled
in the heart of North Malé Atoll, the resort is just
a swift 25-minute speedboat journey from the
international airport.
Unwind in the all-pool villas of this tropical
paradise, shaded by the gentle sway of palm
trees. Yet the allure isn’t limited to the shore.
Dive into the vibrant underwater world of the
Maldives and sail the Indian Ocean aboard a
luxury catamaran. Upon your return, embark on
a delightful culinary journey and indulge in local
flavours and international culinary delights.
Finish off a rejuvenating holiday with time-honoured
Asian-inspired treatments at the award-
winning Banyan Tree Spa.
BOOK WITH YOUR
PREFERRED
TOUR OPERATOR
L U X U R Y T R A V E L T R E N D S
EXSUS - A NEW ERA
FOR LUXURY
The luxury market in 2024 is undergoing signifi cant
transformations, refl ecting broader shifts in consumer values and
expectations. Over the past 12 months, we’ve seen a marked
evolution in what defi nes “luxury,” with a strong emphasis on
personalisation, sustainability, and immersive experiences.
Personalisation has taken centre stage,
with affl uent consumers seeking
bespoke experiences and products
tailored to their individual preferences.
This trend spans across travel, fashion,
and even fi ne dining, where the ability
to customise every aspect of a service
or product is now seen as the pinnacle
of luxury. Travel brands that offer
hyper-personalised services, especially
curated travel itineraries, are thriving in
this environment, but this also brings
challenges when seeking out unique
experiences!
Sustainability has also moved from a
niche concern to a central pillar of luxury.
Today’s consumers are increasingly
aware of the environmental impact of
their choices and are demanding more
transparency and responsibility from
luxury brands. Sustainable materials,
ethical sourcing, and carbon-neutral
operations are no longer just optional
extras but essential components of a
brand’s luxury credentials.
This shift is driving innovation across
industries, with companies exploring
new ways to marry luxury with
environmental stewardship.
Finally, the desire for immersive
experiences is reshaping the luxury
landscape. High-net-worth individuals
are prioritising experiences over material
possessions, seeking out unique,
transformative adventures that offer deep
emotional connections with local culture
or trying something different.
This has led to a surge in demand for
off-the-beaten-path destinations, cultural
immersion, and wellness retreats that go
beyond traditional luxury offerings.
These trends refl ect a broader cultural
shift towards meaningful consumption,
signalling a new era for luxury that
aligns with the values of the modern
affl uent consumer.
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LUXURY MATTERS 2024 | 35
The Grills Experience
Is your customer craving even more space, luxury, and freedom? As a Grills guest, they will be
treated to experiences they’ll never forget. The finest culinary theatre in Grills restaurants.
t.indd 1 21/08/2024 15
Peaceful spaces to relax and unwind. The chance to start their holiday feeling extra special,
with priority boarding at the terminal. It’s all part of the Grills experience.
YOUR VOYAGE TO RECOGNITION AND REWARD
Start shining with Cunard
What is Shine Rewards Club?
What are Shine points?
Shine Rewards Club is Cunard’s travel agent
Shine points are what you earn as a member
loyalty and reward programme, and is all
of Shine Rewards Club, theyre a type of
about rewarding you for your hard work. Make a Cunard Fare booking, visit the Shine
currency that can be earned and spent on
Shine Rewards Club.
Rewards Club website to register the booking
and play our online deck game and you’ll be
guaranteed to earn Shine points. You can
also be in with the chance of earning Shine
Is there any other benefit of being a Shine Rewards Club member?
points by competing in quizzes and attending
webinars.
Yes! You’ll be the first to hear the latest
Cunard news and information and will have
access to all of our Cunard training and the
opportunity to register for travel agent ship
How can I spend my Shine points?
visit’s, fam trips and events.
You can buy vouchers for many well-known retailers. And you can use Shine points to pay
any amount towards a Cunard voyage.
Shuffle, Score, Shine
:05
Register and find out more
at Shinerewardsclub.com
Kuredu Island Resort (Maldives)
2024 – 2027 Luxury Yacht Cruises
Mediterranean & Adriatic Sea | Caribbean
Earn luxury
gifts for EVERY
booking you
make
With intimate service and space for just 100 guests on board Emerald
Azzurra and Emerald Sakara, your customers can feel the embrace of an
Emerald Cruises luxury yacht. Both reach an impressive 110 metres in length
and provide an abundance of space just waiting to be explored.
Intimate yacht cruising
Our next-generation luxury yachts are custom-built
to sail where only smaller vessels can reach.
A fl oating boutique hotel
Guests can enjoy a world-class culinary journey,
the Elements Spa & Wellness Centre, and enjoy a
drink from the Sky Bar.
Freedom to explore further
Explore deeper and venture further, stepping off
the yacht and into local life on included excursions.
Revolutionary in design
There’s more to our fl eet than meets the eye. The
Marina Platform off ers the chance to snorkel, enjoy
SEABOB water scooters or paddleboards.
Visit emeraldcruises.co.uk for our latest off ers, or contact your local
Sales Manager, William Young at [email protected]
Award-winning river and ocean
cruises and handcrafted land journeys
Earn luxury
gifts for EVERY
booking you
make
World-class,
custom-designed ships
Immersive experiences
Everything included
From our origins over 38 years ago providing coach tours along Australia’s Great
Ocean Road, Scenic has led the way in truly all-inclusive river cruising, ultra-luxury
expedition ocean cruising, and worldwide handcrafted land journeys.
Cruise the rivers of Europe and South East Asia on board award-winning 5-star
ships. Explore the frontiers of the Arctic to Antarctica, and everywhere in between, in
6-star ultra-luxury on board Scenic Eclipse, The World’s First Discovery Yachts™, or
embark upon a handcrafted land journey to the USA, Canada, the Far East, or Africa.
This is more than luxury travel, it’s unrestricted global
navigation inspired by decades of expertise.
Visit scenic.co.uk for our latest offers, or contact your local
Sales Manager, William Young at [email protected]
A N D R E A
REVIEWS...
Located on the west coast of Barbados, just
north of Holetown and set within 11 acres
of heritage tropical gardens, the Fairmont
Royal Pavilion offers a haven for relaxation
and pampering!
Upon arrival at the colonial style beachfront
hotel, the warm welcome from the staff and
a glass of rum punch certainly soothes away
the stresses and strains of travelling! If you
have guests looking for a tropical escape,
this is definitely the place to be.
42 | LUXURY MATTERS 2024
Fairmont Royal Pavilion
5-Star Luxury in Barbados
All 75 rooms, suites and villas come with
a furnished balcony - perfect to lounge
in - and with the services of a private butler
included with the suites and villas. Located
on the 3rd floor of the resort, overlooking
Alleyne’s Bay beach, the Signature
Oceanfront Rooms offer a picture perfect
panorama of ocean and sky views.
The spacious glass-fronted balcony is
furnished with an outside ceiling fan, sun
loungers, and table with chairs. A king size
bed with luxury linens, plenty of wardrobe
space and a large bathroom, with bathtub
and shower, will certainly make you want to
extend your stay.
You can also enjoy the soothing treatments
of the spa in the comfort of your own
oceanfront room or suite. Open the doors to
your balcony or terrace and enjoy massages,
whether singly or as a couple, as well as
body wraps and facials while you listen to
the sounds of the ocean and feel the ocean
breeze. Bliss!
If you do feel like being active,
room rates include non-motorised
sports - from the fi tness centre
and tennis courts, to kayaking
and sailing.
However, you may just want to
tickle your taste buds at the superb
restaurants - the Beach Club, Palm
Terrace, and Taboras Restaurant.
All feature personalised service and
outstanding food and cocktails.
And you defi nitely won’t want to
miss the Afternoon Tea!
FAST TRACK SERVICE AT GRANTLEY
ADAMS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
The Fast Track Services at Barbados
Airport offer clients an expedited
arrival or departure through
the airport. Guests are met with
personalised name signage and save
considerable time bypassing the
normal queues - through security,
customs and immigration - and for
departing passengers - through to
the Executive Departure Lounge to
await their fl ight.
LUXURY MATTERS 2024 | 43
Our top 5 luxury picks
As a leading premium tour operator with a passion for travel, we’ve spent years perfecting
the art of luxury holidays. We specialise in creating unforgettable, tailor-made trips
worldwide, from island escapes in the Maldives, Mauritius and Sri Lanka, to bespoke safaris
and adventures in Africa and South-East Asia, all with convenient flight options via Qatar and
the UAE from local northern and Scottish airports.
Our experts are here to share their first-hand tips and find the perfect fit for your clients; but
to get you inspired, here are five top picks to put straight on your recommendation radar.
Our worldwide experts will work with you to create the perfect luxury itinerary
for your clients.
Call our agent priority line on 0800 294 9727
or visit www.kuoni.co.uk/services/agents
Maldives
There’s nowhere better for a Robinson Crusoe-esque
escape than the Maldives and we’ve been there since
the first resort opened its doors in 1972. We handpick
the best places to stay and work tirelessly to get the
very best offers for your clients. Kuramathi Maldives
is our most popular slice of paradise thanks to its mile-
long sandbank, great choice of restaurants and infinity
edge pools with jaw-dropping ocean views.
Mauritius
Thailand
For a relatively pint-sized tropical island, Mauritius
packs a whole lot in. The coastline is lined with five-
star retreats whilst in the forest-cloaked, mountainous
interior, there are national parks, rustic lodges,
kaleidoscopic temples and rum distilleries. LUX*
Grand Baie is one of our favourite spots for a lavish
Indian Ocean break. Guests staying here will be close to
lively Grand Baie but have a distinctively modern resort
to retreat to where there’s a real focus on wellness.
Our connection with Thailand traces back half a century.
Kuoni introduced the first weekly charter flights to
Bangkok in 1965 and to this day, we have a deep-rooted
passion for this country. Travellers will be blown away
by the cacophony of colour, goldglittering temples,
curious wildlife and paradise islands. Your clients
will rave about Paresa Phuket, a heavenly clifftop
hideaway where every villa comes complete with a pool
and panoramic Andaman Sea views.
South Africa
Sri Lanka
Nowhere else will you see a continent’s worth of
diversity packed into one country. While some dream
of the seductive vine-clad Winelands and cosmopolitan
cities, others long for a Big Five safari in game-rich
savannahs. We recommend one of the country’s
most exclusive safari experiences: Lion Sands Game
Reserve, the only private reserve with lodges in both
Sabi Sand Game Reserve and Kruger National Park.
Sri Lanka is a cultural paradise; there are rock temples
and fortresses, historical ruins and colonial-age relics.
Then there’s the spectacular interior of rolling tea
plantations and national parks where wildlife roams.
It also has a beautiful coastline dotted with upmarket
beach resorts like Uga Jungle Beach. This low-key-luxe
bolthole on the east coast has a spectacular setting
between an unspoilt forest and private beach.
Comfort and quality
across the Atlantic
Enjoy your journey
as well as your
destination
At Icelandair we know that the journey
is more than just the destination. That is
why we greet you with a warm welcome
and offer you a smooth and effortless
travel experience.
For those who seek extra comfort
and quality, we offer Saga Premium,
Icelandair's premium cabin class, where
top-class comfort and service are
always included.
A smooth start to your travel
We offer our Saga Premium passengers
priority check-in, fast-tracking through
security, priority boarding and, of course,
a warm welcome to our Saga Lounge.
A relaxing escape before boarding
Our Saga Lounge is truly an oasis at the
airport. Designed for tranquillity and comfort,
it is the perfect place to recharge. Whether
you're in need of a revitalising shower, a
nourishing meal or just breathing space,
Icelandair Saga Lounge is your spot.
icelandair.co.uk
Top-class service on board
When you travel on our Saga Premium class,
we offer you a pre-flight drink, hot towels, gourmet
meals, fine wines, and in-flight entertainment.
Stretch your legs and enjoy a relaxing flight.
2 destinations, 1 journey
Iceland or North America? Why not both!
When travelling with Icelandair you can add
a Stopover in Iceland for up to 7 days at no
additional airfare. Make the most of your trip
by adding warm lagoons, mystical highlands,
or lively nightlife to your journey.
L U X U R Y T R A V E L T R E N D S
IF ONLY SEES GROWING DEMAND FOR
EXCLUSIVE TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
At If Only we’re excited to share some exciting trends in the
luxury travel market that are shaping the way discerning
travellers experience the world.
According to our latest data, high-value
bookings (over £50,000) have seen a
remarkable 66% increase compared to last
year. This indicates a continuing growing
demand for exclusive and luxury travel
experiences. Moreover, younger generations
are leading the charge, with bookings for 25
and 26-year-olds soaring by over 45% with a
steady increase in multi-generational families
travelling together.
In addition to these trends, we’re witnessing
a shift towards longer stays, larger group
bookings, and multi-destination itineraries,
with travellers seeking more immersive and
personalised experiences.
At If Only, we’re committed to providing
our clients with exceptional luxury
travel experiences.
Customers are increasingly seeking the end-
to-end service If Only offer in places like the
Caribbean, Mauritius, and Dubai, where they
are met at their aircraft, fast-tracked through
security and whisked seamlessly to their
luxury vehicle where their luggage is
already stored.
Then our concierge team, who have booked
restaurants, activities and confi rmed that
exact room they requested, ensure support
is available 24/7 during their stay.
Our multi-centre and cruise itineraries,
combined with our extensive portfolio of
luxury accommodations, airlines, cruise
lines and touring options, provide endless
possibilities for creating personalised and
unforgettable adventures.
48 | LUXURY MATTERS 2024
One of the most popular trends with our
multi-centre holidays is the combination of
beach and city experiences. For example,
travellers are increasingly interested in
exploring vibrant cities like New York or
Dubai before relaxing on the beaches of the
Caribbean or the Maldives.
Another popular trend is the integration of
cultural tours into luxury vacations in parts of
the world in Asia or Africa.
This allows travellers to immerse themselves
in the local culture and history, while still
enjoying all the comforts of a luxury getaway.
We see the most value for long haul
luxury in Asia with many 5-star hotels very
competitively priced and airlift in forward
cabins is exceptional value.
LUXURY MATTERS 2024 | 49
FROM DEPARTURE TO ARRIVAL:
COME HOME TO YOURSELF.
Offer your clients an unparalleled travel experience with the first
6 star slow luxury cruises.
They’ll experience world-class cuisine, personalized service, and fascinating destinations
– aboard the Riverside Luxury Cruises on Europe’s most beautiful rivers.