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Mediterranean tops Virtuoso list of desired 2019 cruise destinations

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Luxury travel network Virtuoso has singled out the five top cruise itineraries for 2019, based on a survey of its travel agencies and advisers in 50 countries.

The Mediterranean tops the list, followed by European rivers, Alaska, the Caribbean and the Greek Isles.

The 'Luxe Report' has established Virtuoso as a trusted trend predictor in unveiling consumer preferences in high-end and experiential travel.

Personalization to the max

Virtuoso travel advisers also revealed client requests that illustrate the desire for a deeper level of personalization and one-of-a-kind experiences. From specific seat numbers on planes and hotel room numbers to particular rental car types, travelers are more vocal about their precise preferences. Nothing is left to chance, as increasingly clients ask for prearranged meals and appointments.

They are seeking not just restaurant reservations, but exact tables at in-demand hot spots as well as pre-ordering wine to accompany the meal. They also ask their adviser to book sessions with hairdressers, massage therapists and even tattoo artists.

Key travel motivator: exploring new destinations

Exploring new destinations is the prevailing travel motivator for 2019, followed by crossing off bucket-list items, seeking authentic experiences, rest and relaxation, and spending time or reconnecting with loved ones

Japan tops the list of emerging destinations for the first time, having previously finished third and fifth in 2018 and 2017, respectively. Multigenerational travel maintains its stronghold as the hottest trend for 2019, a position it has held every year but one since 2011. Italy continues its reign as the top global destination as well as the leader for family travel, honeymoons and millennial travel.

When it comes to 2019's top travel trends as identified by Virtuoso, following multigenerational travel are active or adventure trips, river cruising, luxury cruising and celebration travel.

Italy is tops with millennials, too

Following Italy among top travel destinations are France, South Africa, the United States and Iceland. Top millennial destinations are forecast as, No. 1 Italy, then Thailand, Iceland, South Africa and Australia, while family destinations are led by Italy, then Mexico, Hawaii, Orlando (Florida) and England.

After Japan, top emerging destinations are Croatia, Iceland, Portugal and Egypt.

South Africa tops Virtuoso's list of desired adventure destinations, followed by Iceland, New Zealand, the Galápagos Islands and Costa Rica.

Paris leads the roster of cities Virtuoso's well-heeled clients would most like to visit, followed by Rome and New York City (tie), Cape Town, London and Tokyo.

A total of 1,071 travel advisers from Virtuoso-affiliated agencies in North America, Latin America, Asia-Pacific, the Caribbean, Europe, Africa and the Middle East were surveyed.