Thinking about swapping snow shovels for champagne this year? Classic Vacations, the #1 rated travel advisor resource for luxury getaways, has just unveiled its 2025 Holiday Travel Forecast, and it’s clear that high-end travelers are redefining what the holidays look like. Forget crowded malls and stressful hosting duties; this season, it’s all about immersive, memory-rich experiences.
“This year, Classic and the travel advisors we serve are seeing travelers redefine the holidays as a chance to reconnect, recharge, and create lasting memories,” said Melissa Krueger, CEO of Classic Vacations. “Whether it’s celebrating the holidays on a Caribbean beach, ringing in the New Year in the Italian Alps, or gathering loved ones in a private villa, travelers are choosing immersive experiences that really resonate with them and their loved ones.”
Where luxury travelers are headed
Europe reigns supreme once again, with Paris, Rome, and London topping the charts. These cities sparkle with festive markets and that irresistible winter magic that makes you want to order another mulled wine.
For snow seekers, the Italian Alps (think Cortina d’Ampezzo, Val Gardena, and Madonna di Campiglio) are heating up (figuratively, of course) ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics. Closer to home, Aspen, Big Sky, and Deer Valley promise luxe ski-in chalets, torchlight parades, and après-ski parties that last well into the night.
Prefer palm trees to powder? Maui, Kauai, Turks & Caicos, and St. Lucia are calling. Families and couples alike are trading twinkle lights for tiki torches, indulging in all-inclusive luxury at resorts like Grand Velas Riviera Maya and Fairmont Kea Lani.
According to Classic Vacations, the biggest trends for 2025 are shorter booking windows, wellness-inspired escapes, and villa buyouts for family celebrations.
