The demand for high-end, tailored travel experiences is soaring among Filipino travelers, with a growing appetite for expedition cruises, secluded destinations, and extravagant rail journeys that promise exclusivity. Luxury travel providers are responding to this trend with new offerings that cater to the desires of high-net-worth individuals seeking both adventure and unparalleled comfort.
Shan Dioquino David, CEO of the newly-established CITTI Elite, spoke about the company’s recent partnerships with leading luxury travel brands, including Four Seasons Yachts, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Ponant, and Scenic Luxury Cruises. “Filipino travelers are increasingly redefining luxury, seeking unique, personalized experiences that go beyond the ordinary,” David said. “They’re now looking for more than just a five-star hotel—they want the privacy of a private yacht or the thrill of exploring less-visited destinations.”
This new class of luxury travelers is willing to invest significantly, with some spending upwards of US$100,000 to curate bespoke experiences. They demand the highest standards of comfort and service, such as hotel suites of at least 70 square meters, private Mercedes vehicles for land tours, Evian water, and meticulous attention to every detail. Smaller, more intimate ships with a one-to-one guest-to-staff ratio are also a preference.
Rajah Travel Corp. is also capitalizing on this trend, expanding its offerings to include exotic and unique locations. The company now offers mountaineering expeditions across the Canadian Rockies, scenic train journeys through Switzerland aboard the Glacier Express, specialized tours of the Amazon, and river cruises in India.
Aileen Clemente, chair and president of Rajah Travel, noted that Filipino travelers, particularly those who are well-traveled, are increasingly opting for off-the-beaten-path experiences. “Travelers who have explored the typical tourist destinations are now seeking more distinctive and remote places,” she explained. “Some are even focused on visiting all UNESCO World Heritage and UN heritage sites, though often at the cost of the usual luxury experience.”
CITTI Elite’s ultra-luxury itineraries reflect these shifting preferences, with offerings to destinations like the Galapagos Islands, South Africa, Rovaniemi in the Arctic Circle, and Latin America. Opulent train journeys across Europe are also gaining traction among Filipino travelers, offering a refined and unforgettable way to explore the continent in style. As this growing trend continues, the definition of luxury travel for Filipinos is evolving, with a greater emphasis on exclusivity, adventure, and personalized service.
Related topics:
Bali Ranked World’s Fourth Cheapest Long-Haul Destination
China Becomes a Top Holiday Destination for Singapore Travelers This Year-End
Underrated Asian Destinations for a White Christmas