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Virtuoso Travel Experts Reveal Their Favorite Cruises And Hotels For 2025

Virtuoso Travel Experts Reveal Their Favorite Cruises and Hotels for 2025

As the travel industry continues to evolve post-pandemic, luxury travelers are seeking more immersive, sustainable, and personalized experiences. Virtuoso, the leading global network of luxury travel advisors, has once again tapped into its community of experts to highlight the standout cruises and hotels poised to define 2025. Drawing from insights shared by top advisors, this year's recommendations emphasize a blend of adventure, wellness, cultural depth, and eco-conscious luxury. From expedition voyages in remote polar regions to opulent urban retreats in emerging destinations, these picks reflect a shift toward meaningful travel that prioritizes authenticity and environmental responsibility.

Starting with cruises, Virtuoso experts are buzzing about voyages that push boundaries beyond traditional itineraries. One standout is the Antarctic expeditions offered by companies like Quark Expeditions and Ponant. Advisors note that 2025 will see an uptick in demand for these polar adventures, driven by improved accessibility and a growing interest in climate-aware travel. For instance, Ponant's Le Commandant Charcot, a hybrid electric icebreaker, is praised for its ability to navigate through thick ice while minimizing environmental impact. Experts highlight itineraries that include Zodiac excursions to penguin colonies, lectures from onboard scientists, and opportunities for citizen science projects. "Travelers are no longer content with passive sightseeing; they want to contribute to conservation efforts," says one Virtuoso advisor based in New York. These cruises typically span 10 to 20 days, departing from Ushuaia, Argentina, and offer suites with private balconies for optimal wildlife viewing.

In the realm of river cruising, AmaWaterways' voyages along the Mekong River in Southeast Asia are gaining traction. Experts recommend the 2025 sailings that delve into Vietnam and Cambodia, featuring visits to floating markets, ancient temples like Angkor Wat, and interactions with local artisans. The AmaDara ship stands out for its spacious staterooms, infinity pools, and wellness programs incorporating traditional Asian therapies. "The intimate scale of river cruises allows for deeper cultural immersion," an advisor from California explains, noting the inclusion of cooking classes and village homestays. Sustainability is a key focus, with AmaWaterways partnering with local communities to support eco-tourism initiatives.

For those seeking sun-soaked luxury, Silversea's Mediterranean cruises are a top pick. The Silver Ray, launching in 2025, promises ultra-luxury with all-suite accommodations, butler service, and gourmet dining curated by Relais & Châteaux chefs. Itineraries weaving through the Greek Isles, Italian Riviera, and Croatian coast are favored for their blend of history and hedonism. Advisors point to unique experiences like private yacht excursions to hidden coves and onboard enrichment programs with historians and sommeliers. "Post-COVID, clients crave exclusivity and flexibility," shares a London-based expert, emphasizing the ship's open-deck spaces for al fresco yoga and stargazing.

Shifting to ocean voyages with an exploratory edge, Hurtigruten's Norwegian Coastal Express remains a perennial favorite, but 2025 highlights its hybrid-powered ships like the MS Roald Amundsen. These cruises along Norway's fjords offer a mix of scenic beauty and adventure activities such as kayaking and hiking. Experts appreciate the focus on Nordic wellness, with saunas, infinity pools, and farm-to-table cuisine sourced from local suppliers. For families or multi-generational groups, these voyages provide educational value through onboard science centers and lectures on marine biology.

On the hotel front, Virtuoso advisors are excited about properties that redefine luxury through innovation and location. In Asia, the Rosewood Hong Kong continues to impress with its harbor views and contemporary design, but 2025 spotlights its expanded wellness offerings, including a new Asaya spa with holistic treatments inspired by traditional Chinese medicine. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Victoria Harbour, and the hotel's dining scene, led by Michelin-starred chefs, incorporates sustainable seafood. "It's the perfect urban oasis for business travelers who want cultural depth," notes an advisor from Singapore.

Europe's hotel landscape is evolving with eco-luxury in mind. In Iceland, the Highland Base at Kerlingarfjöll is a new favorite for its remote, geothermal-powered lodges amid volcanic landscapes. Opening fully in 2025, this property offers glamping-style accommodations with private hot springs, guided hikes to glaciers, and Northern Lights viewing platforms. Advisors praise its commitment to zero-waste operations and partnerships with local conservation groups. "Clients are drawn to the raw beauty and the chance to disconnect," says a Scandinavian specialist.

For beach enthusiasts, the Caribbean's Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel in Anguilla, is recommended for its white-sand seclusion and barefoot luxury. Following a recent renovation, the resort's villas now include infinity pools and outdoor showers, with activities ranging from rum tastings to marine safaris. Sustainability efforts, such as coral reef restoration programs, align with travelers' values. "It's ideal for romance or wellness retreats," an advisor from Miami shares, highlighting the spa's use of indigenous ingredients.

In Africa, Singita's lodges in Tanzania's Serengeti are top picks for safari aficionados. The Singita Mara River Tented Camp, with its solar-powered tents and open-air lounges, provides front-row seats to the Great Migration. Experts note the personalized game drives, bush walks, and conservation talks that educate guests on anti-poaching efforts. "Luxury here means meaningful impact," explains a Johannesburg-based advisor, emphasizing community empowerment programs.

Urban luxury is thriving in the Americas. In New York City, the Aman New York, housed in the historic Crown Building, is lauded for its serene spa spanning three floors, complete with a 25-meter pool and hammam. Suites blend Japanese minimalism with Art Deco elements, and the hotel's location on Fifth Avenue offers easy access to cultural landmarks. Advisors recommend it for high-end shoppers and art lovers, with exclusive experiences like private gallery tours.

South America's Patagonia region sees the Explora Sacred Valley in Peru as a rising star. Nestled in the Andes, this all-inclusive lodge focuses on adventure with hikes to Machu Picchu and Inca ruins. The design incorporates local materials, and wellness programs include Andean rituals. "It's for active travelers seeking spiritual rejuvenation," notes a advisor from Chile.

In the Middle East, the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab in Dubai remains iconic, but 2025 emphasizes its upgraded sailing yacht experiences and underwater suites. Experts highlight the hotel's opulent dining, from gold-leaf cappuccinos to molecular gastronomy, paired with views of the Arabian Gulf.

Wellness-focused properties are a major trend. In Bali, the COMO Shambhala Estate offers retreats with yoga pavilions, organic farms, and personalized nutrition plans. Advisors see it as a sanctuary for burnout recovery, with jungle treks and river rafting adding adventure.

Sustainability threads through all recommendations. Virtuoso experts stress that 2025 travelers prioritize hotels and cruises with carbon-neutral operations, like Regent Seven Seas Cruises' fleet, which uses advanced biofuels. The Explora Journeys' MSC Explora I is noted for its LNG-powered engines and plastic-free policies, sailing to destinations like the Galápagos with marine biologists onboard.

Family travel is also evolving. Disney Cruise Line's new ships, such as the Disney Treasure, blend magic with luxury, featuring themed suites and Broadway-style shows. Advisors recommend them for multi-generational trips, with stops in the Bahamas offering private island experiences.

Boutique hotels are gaining ground. In Japan, the Hoshinoya Tokyo provides a ryokan experience in the heart of the city, with tatami rooms, onsen baths, and kaiseki dining. "It's a cultural bridge for Western travelers," says a Tokyo expert.

In Australia, the Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island, rebuilt after wildfires, exemplifies resilience with its cliffside suites and wildlife tours. Sustainability includes native plant restoration.

Virtuoso advisors anticipate a surge in solo travel, recommending cruises like those from Viking Ocean, with single-occupancy staterooms and enrichment programs. Hotels such as the Six Senses Ibiza cater to solos with communal wellness classes.

Culinary journeys are highlighted in hotels like the Four Seasons Madrid, where Spanish gastronomy meets modern design. Experts praise its rooftop dining and proximity to markets.

Adventure cruises in Alaska with UnCruise Adventures offer small-ship intimacy for bear watching and glacier kayaking. "It's raw and real," an advisor notes.

In summary, 2025's favorites from Virtuoso experts blend luxury with purpose. Whether cruising polar waters or unwinding in Andean lodges, these selections promise transformative experiences. As one advisor puts it, "Travel is about creating memories that last, while leaving a positive footprint." With bookings already filling up, early planning is advised for these coveted spots.

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Read the Full Forbes Article at:
[ https://www.forbes.com/sites/jimdobson/2025/08/04/virtuoso-travel-experts-reveal-their-favorite-cruises-and-hotels-for-2025/ ]