What the press say

Everyone is talking about ultra luxury, but how exactly do we define it? And what sort of travel products are part of it? LuxuryWise posed the question to various agencies across the world. "Luxury is not about excess but about distinction – the rare, the bespoke, the impossible made real," says Little Emperors founder, Rebecca Masri.

Climate change is shaking up European travel. “The traditional beach destinations have become less attractive during the heatwave,” said chief executive Rebecca Masri. The increase in popularity during so-called shoulder months in autumn may be explained by cheaper room rates, but “the price becomes illogical with the extreme weather” during the peak season, she added.

Virtuoso travel advisors and other experts around the globe tell us what’s in (and out) in the world of luxury stays. “Regardless of changes in design or technology, hospitality’s fundamental essence remains constant,” says advisor Rebecca Masri. “Guests want to feel valued and cared for.”

Some parts of the continent are getting so hot during the summer that the typical high season is getting longer, said Rebecca Masri, founder and CEO of Little Emperors, a private members luxury hotel club. “With the weather in southern Europe staying warm, booking trends are shifting to September, October and even November.”

More jet-setters are looking for alternatives to crowded European cities and turning to lesser-visited locales. Of course, if you must visit one of the world’s most iconic travel destinations, say Mykonos or the Amalfi Coast, it all comes down to timing. “Our high season for places like Italy and Greece is now September,” Rebecca Masri told Bloomberg.

2024 travel plans are expected to look and feel a bit different – in a good way. Instead of navigating congested urban landscapes, imagine quiet walks through quaint historic villages or finding those special tucked-away locations in travelers' favorite cities. "People are seeking to feel more enmeshed and immersed where they are," says Rebecca Masri of Little Emperors, a luxury travel members club.