Discover Luxury Redefined: Virtuoso’s 2024 Hotspots

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Discover Luxury Redefined: Virtuoso’s 2024 Travel Hotspots

Virtuoso, the premier global network of luxury travel advisors, has announced the winners of its 2024 Best of the Best awards during the highly anticipated Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas. This annual event, now in its 36th year, shines a spotlight on the most esteemed travel agencies, advisors, and partners within the network, celebrating the pinnacle of luxury travel.

The 2024 Best of the Best awards were determined through an extensive survey of hundreds of travel agencies and over 12,000 high-end travel advisors. These experts selected the top destinations, hotels, cruise lines, and experiences that represent the height of luxury and innovation in the industry. While some of the selections align with expectations, a few surprises emerged, notably the dominance of Italy in the Hotel of the Year category and the absence of any U.S. hotels in the Best New or Reimagined Hotel category.

Hotel of the Year: A Showcase of Italian Elegance

Italy’s timeless charm is front and center in Virtuoso’s 2024 Hotel of the Year nominations. Leading the pack is the Bulgari Hotel Roma, located at the historic Piazza Augusto Imperatore in Rome’s Campo Marzio district. This 114-room and suite hotel exudes Italian elegance, with meticulous attention to design and hospitality that captures the essence of luxury in every detail.

Another Roman icon, the Hotel Hassler, continues to be a legend atop the Spanish Steps. Known for its stunning city and garden views, Michelin-starred dining at Imàgo, and a bar frequented by Hollywood’s elite, this 87-room hotel remains a favorite for those seeking classic luxury in the heart of Rome.

On the island of Capri, J.K. Place Capri stands out as a nautically inspired mansion at the water’s edge. With only 22 rooms, most offering sea views, this hotel is a glamorous retreat from the island’s bustling center, offering unparalleled access to the ocean and breathtaking vistas.

Completing the list is Passalacqua, a 24-suite villa on the edge of Lake Como. This 18th-century estate, divided among three distinct buildings, offers a secluded and luxurious escape, earning it a place among the world’s top 50 hotels.

Best New or Reimagined Hotel: A Global Showcase

In the highly competitive Best New or Reimagined Hotel category, the Bulgari Hotel Roma once again takes center stage, highlighting its newness and refined luxury. The Carlton Cannes in France, Maroma, A Belmond Hotel Riviera Maya in Mexico, Raffles London at The OWO in England, and Rosewood Munich in Germany also received nominations, showcasing a diverse range of luxury experiences across the globe.

Best Wellness Property: A Haven for Rejuvenation

The Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa in Tucson, Arizona, was named the Best Wellness Property for 2024. Set against the serene backdrop of the Sonoran Desert and the Santa Catalina Mountains, this resort offers a holistic approach to wellness with a variety of casita-style accommodations, spa treatments, and wellness programs designed to nurture the body, mind, and spirit.

Other contenders in this category included the Cloister at The Boca Raton in Florida, the Grand Hotel Victoria Concept & Spa on Lake Como, Italy, Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection in Costa Rica, and SHA Wellness Clinic in Spain.

Best Ocean and River Cruise Lines: Excellence on Water

In the cruise industry, Virtuoso recognized the leading ocean and river cruise lines that continue to set the standard for luxury travel on the water. For ocean cruises, Explora Journeys, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Seabourn, and Virgin Voyages were highlighted as the top contenders.

For river cruises, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises emerged as the winner, celebrated for its opulent experiences and attention to detail. Other nominees included AmaWaterways, Aqua Expeditions, Tauck River Cruising, and Viking River Cruises.

Best Expedition Cruise Line: Adventure Awaits

The Best Expedition Cruise Line category honors those operators offering extraordinary adventures in remote and breathtaking locations. Lindblad Expeditions took the top spot, with PONANT, Quark Expeditions, Seabourn, and Silversea Cruises also recognized for their commitment to delivering unparalleled expedition experiences.

Best Tour and Adventure Operators: Tailored Experiences

When it comes to tailored travel experiences, Micato Safaris was named the Best Tour Operator, recognized for its bespoke African safaris that offer luxury and adventure in equal measure. Other nominees included Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC, Classic Vacations, Tauck, and Wilderness Safaris.

In the Best Adventure Operator category, Lindblad Expeditions again stood out, with Backroads, Big Five Tours & Expeditions, Inc., G Adventures, and Swain Destinations also making the list for their exceptional adventure travel offerings.

Hotelier of the Year: Celebrating Visionary Leadership

The Hotelier of the Year award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, a passion for the hospitality industry, and a commitment to excellence. The nominees include Allen Highfield (Montage Healdsburg, California), Andrew Pike (The Milestone Hotel and Residences, London), Conor O’Leary (Gleneagles, Scotland), Richard Rooney (Wharekauhau Country Estate, New Zealand), and Simone Giorgi (Park Hyatt Milano).

These hoteliers are celebrated for their ability to create unforgettable guest experiences while maintaining the highest standards of service and innovation in their respective properties.

Conclusion: A Year of Luxury Unveiled

Virtuoso’s 2024 Best of the Best awards underscore the evolving landscape of luxury travel, where innovation, tradition, and unparalleled experiences continue to shape the industry. Whether it’s a newly reimagined hotel in the heart of Rome, a wellness retreat in Arizona, or an expedition cruise to the farthest reaches of the globe, Virtuoso’s winners set the standard for what discerning travelers can expect in the year ahead.

These awards not only highlight the best in luxury travel but also offer inspiration for those seeking extraordinary journeys in 2024. As the world of luxury travel continues to evolve, Virtuoso remains at the forefront, guiding travelers to the most exceptional destinations and experiences around the globe.