Luxury Destinations 2023: The Top 3 Trends for Luxury Travellers in Asia Pacific

It’s been a long time coming, but travel is back and it’s all about indulgence, exploration and going big! And as we get ready to pack our bags for the next adventure, here’s some luxury travel inspiration for you to help you plan your next one. 

Scott Dunn — the luxury British travel operator with offices in Singapore, London, San Diego and New York — recently shared their key findings in the realm of luxury travel. These trends have been accrued from their travel experts around the world and ultra-high net worth clients, as well as with partners from around the globe. 

The Top 3 Trends for Luxury Travellers in Asia Pacific 

Luxury Travel Trend #1: The Year’s Top Luxury Destination: Africa 

^{Great temple of Abu Simbel, Marrakesh, lions in Kruger National Park}

Since the ebbing of the pandemic, the team at Scott Dunn has seen a clear favourite when it comes to luxury destination travel: Africa. From the stunning landscapes of South Africa, the vibrancy of Morocco's bustling streets and the mysteries of ancient Egypt, Africa has earned that spot as the luxury travel operator’s top-selling destination since late 2022. 

The best part of an African holiday? The region’s popularity spans across age groups, families, and couples. There’s truly a wealth of different experiences to be had in Africa. Travellers looking for rich cultural experiences will love the ancient civilisations and history to be discovered in Egypt or behind-the-scenes access to the yet-to-be-opened Grand Egyptian Museum. Morocco’s buzzing cities and sprawling mountains are also a popular choice; one unique experience is a visit to a Berber village, where guests can immerse themselves in their day-to-day culture and learn how they bake bread, or how to make a traditional pot of Moroccan tea. 

^{Great Migration, Tanzania}

And then there’s the great African Safari! Tanzania is a popular place to see the yearly migration and the famed ‘Big Five’.

Amongst Scott Dunn’s unique experiences is the breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti, a truly memorable event that gives guests a whole new perspective on their safari trip. South Africa, too, remains a favourite for safari trips, especially for families.

Luxury Travel Trend #2: A Resurgence in Luxury Train Travel

^{Onboard the Eastern & Oriental Express, and the Andean Explorer} 

Think slower, more thoughtful travel. Conjuring up romantic images of a bygone era, train travel is now seeing a resurgence in popularity in the luxury sector. Scott Dunn have seen more clients looking to slow down and unwind when they travel.

One popular train route would be the Eastern & Oriental Express, often colloquially referred to as Southeast Asia’s Orient Express. The train makes its return in 2024 with routes in Malaysia — taking guests through some of Malaysia’s most remote and untouched areas, including one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests, all in iconic comfort and style. 

^{The Glacier Express}

Then there’s Switzerland’s Glacier Express often called one of the world’s most beautiful train rides. The Glacier Express transports guests through the majestic Alps in its well-appointed glass-covered carriages where you can admire the incredible views.

A lesser-known choice is the Andean Explorer, South America’s first exclusive sleeper train, and one of the highest train journeys in the world. Guests also especially appreciate the well-appointed cabins, which feature hand-woven Peruvian fabrics and soft Alpaca wool. The train gives an up-close view of the dramatic Peruvian Andes, and includes opportunities to explore Cuzco, the ancient Inca capital. 

Luxury Travel Trend #3: An Uptick in Private Yacht Holidays

^{The Vela}

In recent times, Scott Dunn’s luxury travel experts have seen a whopping two-fold increase in interest for private yacht holidays. Ranging from plush vessels that epitomise the barefoot luxury trend, to sprawling, cutting-edge superyachts, private yacht holidays are most certainly on the rise. 

The spectacular Indonesian archipelago, in particular, is fast becoming a launchpad for such holidays. Both the Vela and Rascal take inspiration from local craftsmanship, specifically, the phinisi — a traditional Indonesian sailing vessel recognised by UNESCO. 

The Vela’s rigging and sail surface are among the largest in the industry, and it boasts two master cabins above deck, including a spacious Owner's Suite on the Bridge Deck with a private terrace and a Master Cabin on the Main Deck.

^{The Rascal in the sprawling Indonesian archipelago}

The Rascal has been designed specifically for vibrant social gatherings. Large decking areas and unique cabins take inspiration from Hampton-style beach houses make for the perfect choice for groups of friends and family to discover Indonesia’s sprawling archipelago in unfettered style and luxury. 

^{The Soneva in Aqua in the Maldives}

Special mention to Croatia, an especially popular destination for guests keen on a private yacht holiday. As you sail around the Adriatic Sea on a tailor-made itinerary, you can choose to stop anywhere you’d like, from quaint fishing villages to bustling towns alike. Sightseeing by yacht gives guests the opportunity to discover hidden coves and beaches that are otherwise unreachable.

The Maldives is another ideal location for a luxurious yacht holiday. With so many secluded islands scattered throughout the atoll, each one makes for the perfect stopping place to feel truly disconnected from it all. The Soneva in Aqua is a unique concept, where the flexibility of a private boat charter meets the highest levels of service provided by the famed Soneva group from the Maldives. As with all Scott Dunn journeys, every trip on the Soneva in Aqua is tailor-made — whether you’re looking to swim in an uninhabited lagoon, practice yoga on the beach, or stargaze on the sundeck till you fall asleep — their travel experts are ready to help craft your dream vacation.