Alfresco dining at Phinda Rock Lodge, South Africa.Credit: andBeyond.com
Indulgence indoors is out (well, almost). Relaxing in nature is in. That finding was among the surprises when Traveller asked a group of experts – from a resort manager to a leading restaurateur at the forefront of luxury – how they view luxury travel in 2025, and what’s hot and what’s not.
Instead of raving about free-flowing champagne or gilded hotel lobbies large enough to need their own postcode, our panellists emphasise the simpler, though at times not always easy to obtain, pleasures of travel (though, admittedly, a caviar pizza did sneak its way into the conversation).
The most exciting luxury travel trend? Francesco Galli Zugaro, founder of the cruise company Aqua Expeditions, perhaps sums it up best, describing it as a “growing desire to slow down – to travel more consciously, stay longer and connect more deeply with people and places”.
THE LUXURY HOTELIER
Catherine Malouf, The Calile, Brisbane, Qld
The expert Catherine Malouf is co-owner of acclaimed Brisbane boutique hotel, The Calile. See thecalilehotel.com
My definition of luxury is not about abundance; it is about beautiful, intentional spaces that engage all the senses and connect you to culture, nature and community.
Luxury doesn’t have to be polished or performative. True luxury can be found in a perfectly brewed morning coffee or a warm welcome where someone remembers your name.
The most exciting trend in luxury travel is purposeful travel, where people seek experiences that reflect their values. Guests are increasingly curious and community-minded.
Catherine Malouf is owner of Brisbane’s The Calile hotel.
The best change in luxury travel in the past decade has been a broader, more inclusive understanding of what luxury can be.
The most indulgent travel experience I’ve had was a slow summer in Cortona, Italy, with time for long lunches in shaded piazzas, fresh peaches from the market and golden light on ancient stone at twilight.
When I’m paying my way, luxury is all about substance over show and quality over quantity. Thoughtful design, kindness in service, a sense of discretion and a story behind the experience.
My greatest luxury travel splurge was a private safari in South Africa, staying at a conservation-led lodge. Watching a leopard move silently through the grass, an elephant mother reuniting with her baby that had fallen behind the parade – it was emotional, exhilarating and humbling.
Town Hall, Cortona, Italy.Credit: Getty Images
My top way to save money on luxury travel is travel in shoulder seasons or mid-week, stay longer and book direct. You gain access to better rates and tap into a more local rhythm.
The country that does luxury travel well is Italy, not only for its food and history, but for the innate elegance in how life is lived.
Luxury travel in Australia is finding its own confident voice. We’re seeing proudly local properties and experiences that support the arts and communities and protect and promote our unique natural environment.
THE RESTAURANT MAESTRO
Chris Lucas, Lucas Restaurants, Sydney and Melbourne, NSW and Vic
The expert Chris Lucas is the restaurateur behind some of Melbourne and Sydney’s leading upscale restaurants, including Chin Chin, Maison Batard, Grill Americano and Yakimono. See lucas.online
My definition of luxury is that [it represents] the intersection of comfort, craft, and curiosity, where details feel intentional and experiences feel both personal and rare.
Luxury doesn’t have to be over the top. True luxury is thoughtful. It can be as simple as the perfect cocktail, in the right glass, at the right moment.
Chateau Petrus winery, in the Bordeaux wine region.Credit: Alamy Stock Photo
The most exciting trend in luxury travel is the shift toward locality. People are hungry for experiences that reflect the culture and soul of a place.
The best change in luxury travel in the past decade is personalisation. The best properties and experience make you feel like it was designed just for you.
The most indulgent travel experience I’ve had is visiting the medieval city of Saint-Emilion, France, and touring some of the great chateaux there. I was hosted by Chateau Petrus, with lunch in the original family home, surrounded by Picassos and drinking extraordinary wines long into the night.
When I’m paying my way, luxury is all about time. I don’t get away very often, so when I do, I want to savour it.
Courchevel Ski Resort… “one of the most beautiful ski resorts in the world”.
My greatest luxury travel splurge was skiing with my family in Courchevel, one of the most beautiful ski resorts in the world. Mornings on the slopes, long lunches in the sun and evenings by the fire.
My top way to save money on luxury travel is to travel off-season. I always avoid the crowds. It’s when the staff in restaurants and hotels can take a breath that you have the best experiences.
The country that does luxury travel well is Japan. The hospitality is ritualistic, the detail is uncompromising and there’s elegance in even the smallest guesthouse.
Luxury travel in Australia is still finding its voice, but when it hits, it sings. The investment in this area is really exciting for me. More travelling in our backyard, please.
THE LUXE LODGES LUMINARY
Penny Rafferty, Luxury Lodges of Australia
The expert Penny Rafferty is director and executive chair of Luxury Lodges of Australia collection. See luxurylodgesofaustralia.com.au
My definition of luxury is time in nature, preferably with intuitive, knowledgeable hosts or guides who make me feel safe but adventurous, and who pour the perfect G&T at the end of the day.
Luxury doesn’t have to be about how much something costs. It is about how it makes you feel.
Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island … Penny Rafferty has visited every property in the Luxury Lodges of Australia collection.
The most exciting trend in luxury travel is the shift to slower, more connected and hopefully more considered travel. The antithesis of trend-driven, hot-list and revenge travel.
The best change in luxury travel in the past decade has been the appreciation of the local. Locally grown, locally crafted, locally shared.
The most indulgent travel experience I’ve had is as part of my role at Luxury Lodges of Australia, the absolute privilege of visiting every lodge, and I’ve had moments of absolute connection at each of them.
Phinda Private Game Reserve, South Africa.
When I’m paying my way, luxury is all about taking the friction out of travel. Delays, unnecessary bureaucracy or process, not having to make decisions for other people.
My greatest luxury travel splurge was this year, we treated ourselves to an &Beyond safari at Phinda, South Africa. Private reserve, amazing wildlife, incredible guides and trackers, and tangible conservation and community impact.
My top way to save money on luxury travel is to understand the value proposition of an all-inclusive rate, when experiences provide you with access to local characters, creators and storytellers.
Phinda Rock Lodge, South Africa.
The country that does luxury travel well is Australia. When it gets it right, it shines. As do countries in southern Africa, Bhutan and remote areas of India.
Luxury travel in Australia is about rare or exclusive access to our landscapes with their incredible scale, their depth and diversity, and the knowledge and skill of the hosts and guides who take you through them.
THE OCEAN CRUISE EXECUTIVE
Tom Goetter, Scenic Cruises, Australia
The expert Tom Goetter is vice-president, food and beverage and hotel operations, at Scenic Cruises. See scenic.com.au
My definition of luxury is that it be ultra-personalised, memorable and offering an experience that is rare and truly unique.
Luxury doesn’t have to be high-thread counts and upscale amenities. It’s a private moment at the edge of the world, with all the comforts you need and none of the noise you don’t.
The most exciting trend in luxury travel is more, and more travellers are trading white gloves and 24/7 caviar service for something far richer: intimate, unforgettable moments that feel real.
Scenic Eclipse, East Antarctica.
The best change in luxury travel in the past decade has been exploring the world responsibly and is now at the forefront of travel.
The most indulgent travel experience I’ve had is visiting Antarctica on board Scenic Eclipse, our state-of-the-art ship allowing a front-row seat to nature and culture.
When I’m paying my way, luxury is all about engaging with local cultures and the environment, with experiences that spark my curiosity. The discovery element is critical to me. It is all about immersive experiences and exploration.
The epitome of luxury … all-inclusive on board Scenic Eclipse.
My greatest luxury travel splurge is [the fact I’ve been able to live and work] as a chef on every continent, and for nearly a decade now, working aboard ships. I’ve visited over 140 countries, and even better, I’ve eaten in most of them.
My top way to save money on luxury travel is choosing a truly all-inclusive experience that includes excursions, transfers, on-board Wi-Fi, port charges and tips, so you can almost leave your wallet behind.
The country that does luxury travel well is France. It’s an incredible melting pot of historic monuments, architectural heritage and delectable cuisine.
THE RESORT SUPREMO
Adrian Levy, InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef, Qld
The expert Adrian Levy is the resort manager at InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef in Queensland’s Whitsundays. See haymanisland.intercontinental.com
My definition of luxury is anticipating needs, connection to people and location, sincerity – and details, details, details.
The iconic Hayman Pool at Intercontinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef, Whitsundays.
The most exciting trend in luxury travel is the shift toward transformative, experience-driven stays, creating a deeper sense of place and purpose.
The best change in luxury travel in the past decade has been the shift from opulence to authenticity, from material extravagance to meaningful, personalised experiences.
The most indulgent travel experience I’ve ever had is first-class travel to Paris on Etihad Airlines. I was completely overwhelmed by the offering, the freedoms and privileges of this experience, prior, during and on arrival.
Le Meurice’s Belle Etoile Suite with Eiffel Tower views.
When I’m paying my way, luxury is all about feeling cared for, and a mix of exploring and beach or poolside time. If I don’t have a tan, did the holiday really happen?
My greatest luxury travel splurge was when I spent a week in Paris, moving from one famous luxury hotel to the next: Le Meurice, the Plaza Athenee, the George V and The Peninsula.
The Peninsula, Paris.
My top way to save money on luxury travel is, judging from my credit card statements, I am not the person to ask. But when I travel with others, I am more frugal and considerate of budgets: like having picnics or taking sandwiches on a day trip.
Luxury travel in Australia is honest, relaxed, informal. It’s a real genuine connection to people, place and experience.
THE WELLNESS GURU
Lyndall Mitchell, Aurora Spa & Bathhouse, Mornington Peninsula, Vic
The expert Lyndall Mitchell is founder of Aurora Spa & Bathhouse, Mornington Peninsula. See auroraspa.com.au
My definition of luxury is carving out space to pause, reflect and truly experience the present. Time to slow down is the ultimate luxury.
Luxury doesn’t have to be about possessions or status. To me, true luxury lies in the experiences that nourish your soul.
The hilltop lap pool and Shakti Fitness area at Kamalaya.
The most exciting trend in luxury travel is that travellers are prioritising their mental and physical health. Wellness is no longer a niche – it’s becoming a core expectation.
The best change in luxury travel in the past decade has been from spa treatments to immersive mindfulness retreats, the rise of wellness is creating experiences that nourish both the body and the mind.
The most indulgent travel experience I’ve had was a costly massage at the Aman Spa in Tokyo. The attention to detail was unparalleled; everything from the setting to the therapist’s touch was exceptional.
A recharging retreat … a plunge pool at Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary in Koh Samui.
When I’m paying my way, luxury is all about well-established retreats that deliver meaningful, lasting results. Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary in Koh Samui, Thailand, is my favourite. Each time I leave, I feel as though every cell in my body has been recharged and renewed.
My greatest luxury travel splurge was a stay at the 7132 Hotel in the tiny Swiss town of Vals, where I experienced the world-renowned Therme Vals baths.
7132 Hotel Vals Switzerland.
The country that does luxury travel well is [not necessarily a specific country but] Europe [as a whole] as it offers an incredible variety of wellness experiences. I once visited 60 spas across Europe in just six weeks – truly a research trip like no other.
Luxury travel in Australia is still evolving. There are some incredible destinations, but we’re still catching up to the global wellness leaders.
THE CRUISE EXPEDITIONER
Francesco Galli Zugaro, Aqua Expeditions, Singapore
The expert Francesco Galli Zugaro is founder of the luxury small ships cruise line Aqua Expeditions. See aquaexpeditions.com
My definition of luxury is taking a moment to share an extraordinary view with my wife; fully present, unhurried and immersed in the beauty of the moment.
Luxury doesn’t have to be about material things. Often, it’s about time – time to disconnect, to reflect, to be with the people who matter.
The most exciting trend in luxury travel is the growing desire to slow down, to travel more consciously, stay longer and connect more deeply with the people and places along the way.
Italian pizza with premium black caviar.Credit: Getty Images
The best change in luxury travel in the past decade has been the shift toward living in the now. Bucket-list trips are no longer being postponed as travellers embrace extraordinary experiences earlier in life, rather than waiting for the “right” time.
The most indulgent travel experience I’ve had is a pizza margherita topped with a generous amount of caviar, inspired by [Axelrod on the TV series] Billions. I was on a beach in Kudadoo, Maldives, where the motto is “Anything. Anywhere. Anytime.” I decided to put that to the test.
My greatest luxury travel splurge was flying The Apartment on Etihad from Singapore to New York. Ironically, it turned out to be one of my most exhausting flights. I was so excited about the bed, shower, armchair, meals and TV that I didn’t sleep a wink.
Etihad’s first-class Apartment.
My top way to save money on luxury travel is steering clear of duty-free.
The country that does luxury travel well is not just one country but Africa as a region. For me, luxury is about being immersed in nature and wildlife, and there’s nothing quite like a safari to deliver that sense of wonder, space and perspective.
Luxury travel in Australia is escaping the city lights and experiencing the natural brilliance of the night sky. Nothing beats the quiet magic of stargazing under a vast, crystal-clear sky.
Out of luxe: The one time I actually roughed it
Double Island Point, Queensland.
Catherine Malouf
“It was camping on the beach near Double Island Point in Queensland. No reception, no hot water, just the rhythm of the tides, a campfire and the night sky. It reminded me how restorative nature can be.”
Chris Lucas
“Staying on a remote island called Haggerstone in Far North Queensland. No air-con, no creature comforts, just a small hut and a week spent fishing with the locals. Blissfully raw.”
Penny Rafferty
“My now-husband and I hiked through Romania’s forests, mountains, valleys, past villages that hadn’t changed in centuries. We had our backpacks, a tarp in lieu of a tent, and my travel container of spices and good coffee. Some luxuries are not to be foregone.”
Tom Goetter
“It was [in pursuit] of my love of street food. I always go where the locals go so I experience the best food, even if this isn’t found in the most glamorous of locations.”
Adrian Levy
“Camping. I cannot understand why sleeping on the ground is on anyone’s bucket list. Sitting by the fire with friends, warmth, wine and good laughs – yes. Sleeping in a tent – no.”
Lyndall Mitchell
“At a retreat elsewhere in Australia, I slept in my tracksuit to avoid the damp, mouldy sheets. There were cockroaches under my bed and I didn’t sleep a wink.”
Francesco Galli Zugaro
“A $7 hostel in Old Delhi with my then-girlfriend – now my wife of 32 years. It wasn’t glamorous, but it’s one of those experiences that sticks with you.”