Luxury Travel & Lifestyle Trends

A recent survey by WSL Strategic Retail indicates that only 19 percent of pet owners are scrimping on pet spending, with the majority buying not only nice things but top-of-the-line products as well. Turns out, pet supplies are often at the bottom of the cutback list, along with human essentials such as prescription medications and toothpaste.

Goth has been around for decades, having evolved out of the punk movement in the 70’s and reaching a high in the 90’s. But the macabre vibe is gaining traction once again. A symbol of dark economic times? Perhaps.

Adventurers and in-the-know travelers have been beguiled by exotic Africa for centuries, but what is for sure is that Obama’s prominence and African origins will surely accelerate interest in African tourism, culture and style, and putting the continent firmly back on the chic list. It’s debatable whether the “O factor” will revive Hawaiian tourism the way Jimmy Carter did to Plains, Georgia or Bush to Crawford, Texas.

Not only have sales of fine jewelry plummeted recently, it seems that those that have the bling don’t feel much like wearing it these days. The notable absence of pricey baubles and beads at some of the top recent events, of the ‘who’s who” in Miami, a city not noted for understatement.

Luxury providers constantly need to challenge themselves to find new ways of meeting (even exceeding) their customers expectations. The saavy, wealthy and on-the-go constituents of Generation X and Generation Y expect more capability, flexibility and technology.

Before our eyes, the fashion and hospitality industries are merging, to better meet consumers needs/demands by becoming a reflection of how their consumers want to live. This shift is giving rise to a new trend - fashionista getaways - for those looking to combine their passions for fashion and travel.