A new report from luxury travel advisor network Virtuoso shows that travelers are increasingly interested in how their personal travels are affected by climate change, and how they can alter their behaviors to become more environmentally conscious.
The 2024 Luxe Report, which surveyed more than 2,000 Virtuoso advisors across more than 50 countries, shows that 46% of the network’s members have seen the issue of climate change influence their clients’ behaviors, and that these consumers are traveling differently, or altering their plans, as a result.
But what does that look like?
According to the report, three-quarters of advisors see travelers select destinations where weather conditions are less-extreme, while nearly as many (71%) are seeing interest in shoulder-season travel (traveling during off-peak times, when climate conditions are better).
Additionally, one-quarter of respondents see their clients trying to reduce their carbon footprint by traveling more sustainably.
“Virtuoso has long been a proud advocate of sustainable tourism,” said Javier Arredondo, vice president of sustainability for Virtuoso. “From our Sustainability Council and Community to awards and dedicated editorials in every issue of Virtuoso, The Magazine, we support the efforts of our partners and seek to educate our advisors on sustainable travel."
It’s inspiring to see more clients taking it into account, thanks in large part to our travel advisors who are creating a dialogue on selecting destinations, hotels, cruise lines, tour operators and other partners that share the same commitment.
Sustainability has long been a trending topic in travel, with companies across the industry altering their business strategies to be more eco-conscious and protect the planet.
Virtuoso, for example, has its pillars of sustainability: Protecting the Planet, by protecting and preserving the environment and/or promoting sustainable practices around the world; Celebrating and Honoring Cultures by using the expansion of knowledge, beliefs, arts, customs or capabilities to transform communities; and Supporting Local Economies by improving conditions, circumstances and livelihoods for the populations visited by creating a positive financial impact.
“With a goal of making sustainability a greater factor in consumer choice, it’s inspiring to see more clients taking it into account, thanks in large part to our travel advisors who are creating a dialogue on selecting destinations, hotels, cruise lines, tour operators and other partners that share the same commitment,” Arrendondo added. “Using a Virtuoso advisor when planning upcoming vacations will not only help travelers ensure they support businesses that share their values but also assist them in navigating the ever-changing world of travel.”
