Ultra 2025 Panel Insights

Download the full Ultra 2025 Panel Insights report to discover what’s shaping the future of ultra-luxury travel here. This decade promises to be a transformative era for the luxury travel industry. Wealth is becoming more widely distributed, with women making up around 11% of global UHNWIs (ultra-high-networths) in 2025. As money also shifts into the hands of the younger generations, brands looking to attract an ultra-wealthy clientele will need to adapt their strategies to ensure they are relevant to this new, broader market. This is also a period of significant growth for the ultra-luxury travel industry. According to the Knight Frank Wealth Report 2024, the global UHNWI population was projected to grow by 28.1% between 2023 and 2028. While the distribution of wealth is shifting between world regions, change is also happening between generations. At Ultra 2025, influencers in the luxury travel sector discussed these trends and shifts. This report provides a useful summary of the key takeaways from the two panels that were hosted during our inaugural gathering at Atlantis The Royal in Dubai, which took place from 26-30 January 2025. Summary & Key Findings Attendees at Ultra 2025 had the opportunity to hear from industry leaders through two

What to Expect at High-End Luxury Travel Exhibitions

The doors open to a world where luxury transcends the ordinary. This isn’t just another travel exhibition – it’s a journey into the future of exceptional experiences. A buzz of anticipation fills the air as industry pioneers and visionaries gather, each ready to discover what’s next in the world of luxury travel. “From the moment I stepped into the event, I was enveloped in a world of opulence and sophistication. Amour showcased the epitome of luxury travel, exclusive VIP amenities, and networking opportunities that exceeded all expectations.” – Angelika Tretyakova, Aquamarine Travel Where Innovation Meets Elegance Our events pulse with energy throughout the day, but not always in ways you might expect. Mornings bring intimate meetings between buyers and exhibitors, while each breakfast and lunch provides another opportunity to engage with like-minded professionals. Afternoons take delegates on experiences that showcase the best luxury offerings of each destination, and evenings provide the perfect ambience for building relationships that go beyond business to form a truly personal connection. “Private Luxury Events has been a game-changer for our business growth. They’ve got this knack for helping us build epic connections with exhibitors – not just transactions, but real bonds. It’s like they’ve cracked

Vignamaggio: A Renaissance Estate Reimagined

Tucked between the rolling hills of Florence and Siena, where cypress trees line winding roads and vineyards ripple toward the horizon, lies a place where the past and present meet in perfect harmony: Il Borgo di Vignamaggio. This historic estate, with over 600 years of heritage, has evolved into one of Tuscany’s most enchanting destinations – a celebration of beauty, tradition, and refined festivity.   A legacy of elegance Vignamaggio’s roots run deep. Over the centuries, its grounds have hosted medieval commanders, visionary artists, noble families, and famed intellectuals. The estate’s former owner, Count Bino Sanminiatelli, was renowned for hosting dazzling soirées that drew royalty, creatives, and luminaries of 20th-century society to Chianti. That legacy of celebration lives on today – elevated, refined, and reimagined. The rebirth of Il Borgo In 2015, the team behind Vignamaggio undertook a bold restoration project, breathing life back into Vitigliano di Sopra, a once-abandoned villa. Over seven years, ivy was peeled from walls, pigeons politely shown the door, and a vision took shape: a destination dedicated entirely to the art of celebration. The result is Il Borgo, an elegant blend of timeless charm and contemporary design where every detail, from hand-crafted Tuscan furniture to

Crafting Experiences at Luxury Travel Events

The art of creating exceptional luxury travel events demands more than simply choosing beautiful venues and ensuring premium service – it requires a profound understanding of how to orchestrate moments that resonate deeply with attendees. In this realm, every detail must contribute to an overarching narrative that elevates the entire experience. Designing Unique Themes A thoughtfully crafted theme transforms a luxury networking event from a mere gathering into an immersive journey. Rather than just implementing superficial decorative elements, successful themes weave together multiple sensory touchpoints to create cohesive experiences that tell compelling stories. Our TFest event is a prime example. Every year, we create a theme that interweaves with the event journey, from the afternoon activities and educational content into the entertainment and evening gatherings. Themes at TFest are designed to elevate the event experience and give attendees inspiration for their transformative journey.   Incorporating Local Culture and Traditions Luxury travel exhibitions gain depth and authenticity through meaningful integration of local heritage. This requires moving beyond surface-level cultural references to create a genuine connection with the host destination. Successful events might feature collaborations with local artisans, showcase regional culinary traditions, or incorporate indigenous art forms in unexpected ways. During the

Transforming Travel Conferences into Luxe Experiences

The landscape of global travel conferences is evolving, and at Private Luxury Events (PLE), we’re proud to be at the forefront of this transformation. As pioneers in luxury travel events, we’ve witnessed firsthand how luxury networking has become an essential component of the industry’s growth. Our premium travel conferences have redefined what these events can be, moving far beyond traditional formats to create immersive, luxurious experiences that foster meaningful connections. The Art of Venue Selection Setting the Scene: Choosing Iconic Locations When curating our luxury travel exhibitions, we understand that the venue sets the tone for the entire experience. That’s why we’ve chosen spectacular locations like Sardinia, the host destination for our last two Amour events, and Mayakoba, where TFest takes place. Our global travel events are hosted in destinations that reflect the calibre of our attendees. We believe that luxury travel exhibitors and advisors deserve surroundings that inspire and excite, creating an atmosphere conducive to forging valuable partnerships. These venues don’t just serve as backdrops – they become integral parts of the experience, offering our partners and delegates an authentic taste of luxury hospitality. Ambience and Aesthetics: Crafting the Perfect Environment At our luxury travel trade shows, every detail

The Art of Connection: Mastering Networking in Luxury Travel

Strategic relationships form the foundation of success in luxury travel. But beyond traditional networking lies an art – the ability to forge genuine connections that transform both businesses and the industry. These relationships, cultivated through luxury networking environments, create opportunities that go far beyond business card exchanges. Why Networking is Vital in Luxury Travel When luxury travel brands connect in purpose-designed environments, extraordinary possibilities are born. These carefully orchestrated gatherings create natural opportunities for discovering shared values, complementary strengths, and unexplored market opportunities that benefit all parties. Expanding Reach and Influence Luxury travel trade shows provide more than just exposure – they offer curated opportunities to connect with exactly the right partners. Whether you’re seeking to expand into new territories or strengthen your existing market presence, these gatherings connect you with decision-makers who can open doors to previously untapped opportunities. Building Brand Recognition At luxury travel exhibitions, your brand reaches an audience that truly understands its value. These events create intimate settings where you can showcase your unique offerings through meaningful conversations rather than standard presentations, allowing your brand’s authentic character to shine. The Key to Building Meaningful Relationships The most valuable connections in luxury travel are forged through shared

Sri Lanka – The Destination’s Big Comeback

With an eventful history that’s witnessed ethnic conflict, natural disaster, and economic crises, Sri Lanka has endured constant ups and downs. Travel advisors keep asking themselves: Can I send my clients there? LuxuryWise answers with a loud, resounding “YES!” Spectacular nature and cultural treasures are just the beginning to the most underestimated destination in the world – an island that has transformed itself into a luxury travel paradise with charming service. For Context There are outstanding tour guides around the world, but if your clients are lucky enough to travel with Imal (pictured) from andBeyond, he’ll be the one that opens the soul of “his” country to them (Amen!). With the patience and empathy of an angel, he explains cultural peculiarities, politics, and the current situation using authentic insights and examples from the everyday lives of Sri Lankans. Let’s begin by dispelling concerns about supply bottlenecks from the last economic crisis. At that time, fuel – among other things – was very scarce, and in order to get some, Imal had to pitch a tent at a gas station for the night just so he could siphon off a few liters at dawn. Fortunately, those difficult times are over. And

Discovering Koh Samui with Karen Slocombe

A Luxury Traveller’s Guide to Exclusivity and Serenity Koh Samui is a paradise for luxury travellers, offering a peaceful escape from the crowds of other popular destinations like Phuket and Bali. The exclusivity and serenity of the island provide a relaxed ambiance for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the destination without the hustle and bustle. Chatting with us at our Dubai event in January, Karen Slocombe shares her insights on the hidden gems of Koh Samui, what makes Samujana a popular choice for luxury travellers, and her experience as a Platinum Exhibitor at Private Luxury Dubai. What makes Thailand, and Koh Samui in particular, a popular destination for luxury travellers? Koh Samui in general is considered a great location for luxury travellers because of its exclusivity. Unlike Phuket and Bali, there are limited flights going in and out of the island which means fewer people, less traffic, and less of the backpacker crowd that other areas attract. This makes the island more relaxed and less stressful when out and about. Guests can enjoy the natural beauty of this heavenly island without having to elbow their way through a crowd on the beach. The island itself is

The Safari Collection’s Environmental Footprint

Embracing Sustainability and Giving Back in Luxury Travel Luxury travel is synonymous with comfort, indulgence, and unforgettable experiences. But as the world becomes increasingly conscious of environmental issues, travellers are seeking out more sustainable and responsible options. The Safari Collection, which operates a collection of luxury lodges and camps in Kenya’s finest locations, has taken up the challenge and is making significant strides in sustainability, giving back, and reducing its environmental footprint. In this article, we’ll explore The Safari Collection’s initiatives and how they contribute to a more meaningful travel experience. The Footprint Programme: Preserving Nature, Empowering Communities The Safari Collection’s commitment to sustainability is evident through its dedicated foundation, “Our Footprint.” This program aims to protect East Africa’s natural wonders, promote sustainable tourism, and positively impact local communities. By treading delicately on the planet and minimising their environmental impact, The Safari Collection sets an example for other luxury travel companies to follow. Conservation Efforts: Protecting Vulnerable Wildlife and Habitats The Safari Collection recognises the importance of protecting wildlife and their habitats, which are the backbone of Kenya’s incredible natural wonders. Through their dedicated foundation, they support various conservation projects aimed at safeguarding vulnerable animal species. From giraffe conservation to

Voices of Our Community – Luxury Travel Trends

Personalisation, Sustainability, and Immersive Experiences Our events are not only a time and place for the world’s finest exhibitors and most sought-after buyers in luxury travel to come together and connect – they’re also about education and keeping up to date with the latest trends in the industry. At each edition of Private Luxury, we ask our community for their perspectives on the world of luxury travel. During Private Luxury Abu Dhabi last September and Private Luxury Dubai in January, we had the pleasure of speaking to some of our luxury buyers and getting first-hand insight into evolving trends. Let’s hear what the experts had to say. Nagsri Sashidhar – NAGSRI – CREATING SPECIAL MEMORIES We’re seeing that clients are opting more for boutique properties and intimate experiences. They don’t want to be just a number in a hotel – personalistion is very important to them. So boutique properties which have a soul, a real story to share are becoming increasingly popular. It’s all about immersion, and immersive experiences. So, again, it’s not just about ticking off boxes, seeing monuments, and coming back. It’s about getting immersed in the culture, in the cuisine, in the way of life of a

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