Kensington recently released its inaugural Kensington Travel Trends Report, offering an extensive list of insights and trends on traveller behaviours that are currently influencing client preferences. They range from off-peak and off-the-beaten-path travel to solo and personalized journeys. With this in mind, the Toronto-based travel company has highlighted five special destinations it says are poised to stand out this year and beyond.

According to Kensington, these destinations promise unique cultural, scenic, and immersive experiences for the modern traveller, as well as reflecting specific sentiment offered in its recent Affluent Traveller survey conducted last fall:

1. Ghana – This West African country is poised to become very popular destination, making now a great time to visit. “The vibrant music scene, festivals, food, year-round warm weather combined with the historical attractions including the Door of No Return, make this a great choice for travellers looking for culture and history without the crowds,” says Andrew Drummond, Director of Product.
2. Canadian Rockies – Known for its natural beauty, this region is perfect for private-guided touring. “Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper offer breathtaking landscapes that attract nature lovers and those seeking adventure with a luxury twist,” explains Kelly Torrens, Senior Director of Product.
3. French Polynesia – The combination of exclusivity, natural beauty, and rich cultural experiences makes French Polynesia an unrivaled destination for private yacht charters, attracting those seeking a luxurious, adventurous, and private escape. “The remoteness of particularly the less-visited islands beyond Tahiti and Bora Bora provides a high level of seclusion where guests can anchor in serene, untouched locations far from crowds,” says Edita Sgovio, VP of Kensington Yachts. “Travellers can also engage with local communities, experience traditional dances and ceremonies, and enjoy authentic Polynesian cuisine while cruising the islands aboard a fully staffed charter with private chef, diving equipment and other water toys.
4. Puglia, Italy – “This region offers a more laid-back and authentic Italian experience compared to some of the country’s more famous regions,” says Jason Susinski, Product Director. With its charming architecture, less touristy beaches and a stunning coastline with crystal-clear waters, farm-to-table cuisine and a selection of boutique properties or luxury villas, it’s a perfect alternative to Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast.
5. Chile – As travellers seek off-the-beaten-path destinations, Chile is emerging as a top choice for its dramatic landscapes and sustainable luxury. “From Patagonia to Atacama, Chile offers unique eco-lodges and high-end experiences that appeal to luxury travellers,” says Chaza Fell, Sales Director.

“While these destinations reflect the top bookings and choices from our internal team, we also wanted to take the pulse on a broader audience through our Affluent Traveller survey,” notes Matt Cammaert, SVP of Marketing and Outside Sales. “It was interesting to see where there is crossover with our internal data as well as the destinations that were top of mind for this group of travellers.”

That list included a range of experiences such as a private expedition cruise to Antarctica to a curated Personal Heritage Journey, skiing the Alps, or visiting elephant sanctuaries in Thailand.

Opportunities to watch

Meanwhile, the Kensington team also identified three “opportunities to watch”:

Reimagining familiar destinations: Travellers exhibit a dual preference for familiarity and novelty, as revealed in the Affluent Traveller Survey. While 54% of respondents enjoy returning to beloved destinations, 69% prioritize new experiences during their journeys. This presents an opportunity to offer fresh perspectives on well-travelled places by crafting unique, tailored experiences. These could include exploring history, food, art, or hyper-local geography, or opting for alternative accommodation like private villas or yacht charters that provide a more personal and immersive viewpoint.

Balancing depth and breadth: The survey highlights the personal nature of preferences between trip depth and breadth. While 74% of respondents favour breadth – exploring multiple locations – 66% value depth, focusing on fewer destinations. Most held these preferences moderately rather than strongly, indicating that affluent travellers seek a balanced approach. Providing opportunities for travellers to customize their experiences to achieve the right mix of depth and breadth is essential.

Preserving authenticity: Affluent travellers prioritize authenticity in their journeys. Survey findings show 71% strongly value travel that challenges their worldview, and 72% aim to learn more about the world, with 56% increasingly seeking authentic local food and culture.

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