News and Press
Find the latest media articles featuring Enchanting Travels and recent press releases below.
Introducing our new report “The New Luxury Traveler” highlighting what affluent consumers want from travel now.
According to our new report based on proprietary guest research, affluent consumers increasingly view luxury not as a display of wealth, but as access to experiences that feel personal, transformative, and difficult to replicate. Nearly two-thirds of respondents (63%) identified unique experiences as their primary motivation for travel, while only 1% cited status or recognition as a key driver.
The report identifies several major behavioral shifts shaping the future of experiential luxury travel:
- Travel is increasingly measured by emotional ROI. Respondents consistently described the most meaningful journeys as those that created lasting memories, inspired ongoing conversations, and delivered a sense of personal renewal.
- Luxury is becoming more personal. Personalization emerged as the defining marker of luxury travel. Traditional status markers such as privacy and exclusivity appear to be losing influence, replaced by a growing demand for cultural immersion, authenticity, and meaningful access.
- Affluent travelers want transformation, not just relaxation. The report found a growing preference for travel that feels energizing and perspective-changing rather than purely restorative. More than half of respondents (53%) said excitement and discovery were the emotional outcomes they value most from travel.
- Longer, more immersive journeys are on the rise. Nearly two-thirds (64%) of respondents said their ideal trip lasts 12 days or longer, reflecting growing demand for immersive, multi-destination journeys that allow for deeper cultural connection.
Read our February 2026 Report “The State of Luxury Experiential Travel“
Press Releases
February 4, 2026 Enchanting Travels Redefines Offering with “The Art of Luxury Custom Travel” Rebrand
February 11, 2026 Enchanting Travels Releases 2026 Report on the State of Experiential Luxury Travel
March 11, 2026 New Data Shows Affluent U.S. Travelers Are Abandoning Europe’s Peak Summer Season
May 19, 2026 Enchanting Travels Releases New Report Revealing the Rise of the “Experience-First” Luxury Traveler
In the News
The Rise of the “Experience-First” Luxury Traveler
The era of travel as status symbol may be officially over — at least according to a new report from Enchanting Travels.
Enchanting Travels: The affluent traveler no longer buys luxury, but experiences
The new report, “The New Luxury Traveler,” by Enchanting Travels, records a significant shift in the preferences of affluent travelers, who appear to be moving away from traditional status symbols and instead seeking more personal, authentic, and transformative experiences.
Report: Affluent Travelers Favor Personalization and Experience Over Status
New research from Enchanting Travels indicates that affluent travelers are increasingly seeking personalized, transformative, and emotionally meaningful travel experiences, with a majority prioritizing unique journeys over traditional status-driven motivations.
Experiential Luxury Travel Surges as Personalization and Transformation take Precedence
A newly released report from Enchanting Travels, a custom luxury travel specialist, highlights a significant shift in how affluent travelers define luxury.
Affluent American Travelers Pulling Back from Europe's Peak Summer, New Data Shows
Peak-season European travel is losing its grip on America’s most affluent clients, according to new data from luxury tour operator Enchanting Travels.
Luxury Travelers Shift Away From Europe’s Busiest Summer Months
Affluent U.S. travelers are opting for Europe’s shoulder season over busy summer months to avoid crowds and enhance their travel experience.
Europe’s Peak Season Is Losing Ground With Affluent Travelers
New data from Enchanting Travels shows a clear shift toward shoulder-season travel among U.S. luxury travelers.
Should You Use a Professional Travel Planner?
Deborah Gaines explores the benefits of custom travel through a trip to Portugal planned by Enchanting Travels expert, Derek Krantz.
The 15 Best Hotels In Florence
Katherine Louie uncovers the top luxury hotels in Florence, with expert insights from our Italy specialist, Heather Alcott-Moritz.
These Tragic AI Fails Are Proof That You Can't Fully Rely On ChatGPT To Plan Your Trip
It’s supposed to make life easier, but in many cases AI could turn your trip into a nightmare. Our Co-founder and CEO, Parik Laxminarayan shared his experience.
Luxury Dupes That Make Financial Sense
Most people want to splurge on extravagances, but considering your financial reality is important. Discover what Florian Keller, our chief customer and sustainability officer recommends when it comes to travel.
A trip to remember: Japan answers the demand for curated luxury travel
Elizabeth Beattie explores how travel agencies curate bespoke experiences for luxury travelers from Europe and the U.S.
Unmissable travel ideas for your next luxury getaway
Make your next vacation unforgettable with these dazzling hotels, destinations and products.
Exploring Winelands In South Africa
Dynie Sanderson embarks on a four-day journey through Stellenbosch and Franschhoek to sample the flavorful wines of South Africa.
The best travel destinations in August 2023
From city life to natural wonders: Claudia Hilmbauer from Falstaff TRAVEL reveals her pick of the 5 best travel destinations in August 2023 – among them, an enchanting trip to Borneo.
Enchanting Travels Receives Travelife Partner Status
Travelife is a certification dedicated to achieving sustainable practices within the tourism industry. It provides companies with realistic sustainability goals, tools and solutions to implement positive change within their businesses and supply chains. In India and Kenya, Enchanting Travels has received Travelife Partner status by complying with more than 100 criteria related to office management, product range, international business partners and customer information. This award is a recognition for the long-term efforts and frontrunner position regarding sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility.
Foodie Honeymoons
Peru is one of the top gastronomic destinations in the world, and rightly so, what with Peruvian chefs breaking barriers when it comes to innovative and supremely delicious culinary delights. Wedding Ideas magazine features Peru as one of the top destinations for foodie honeymoons, inspired by Enchanting Travels’ Luxury Honeymoon and Beach tour in Peru.
Instagram-worthy Honeymoon Ideas
The magic of white marble never ceases to amaze honeymooners! Wedding Ideas Magazine features Oberoi Amarvilas, from Enchanting Travels’ Heritage & Luxury North India tour in their article about the world’s best Instagram-worthy honeymoons.