Trends for luxury travel in 2014 – simple pleasures and gourmet discoveries

Here we predict the key trends that we envisage for luxury travel in 2014, and have carefully hand-picked a selection of the world’s most luxurious destinations, hotels and resorts that encompass each of the growing trends for this year – namely, those of simple pleasures and gourmet discoveries. Simple pleasures For many luxury travellers, a holiday is less about glitz and glamour and more about having time to spend with loved ones, wander around a museum or finally read that book. Many places are developing and introducing services or facilities like curated libraries and activity programmes for the whole family. Younger guests feel special at Four Seasons Resort Sharm el Sheikh, Red Sea, Egypt A self-contained world of luxurious seclusion, this is a place where entrancing desert meets the teeming corals of the Red Sea. Cascading down a slope to a private beach, this resort offers a spectacular combination of luxury and natural beauty where families are made to feel special as soon as they arrive. Younger guests will be eager to dive into the dedicated children’s pool and then dry off on the mini sun-loungers, or throw themselves into the cornucopia of activities available to them whilst you relax by the sublime free-form swimming pool. Baby sea turtle programme at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, North Malé Atoll Reflecting all the charm and intimacy of a traditional Maldivian village, this colourful garden island is the epitome of an Indian Ocean paradise. The azure waters around this island paradise are home to astounding marine life; on-island there is a Marine Discovery Centre where you can learn about the ground-breaking research, help to build coral reefs and care for hand-reared baby sea turtles. Catering for all generations, further recreational facilities include The Island Spa, Island Tennis Court, Surf School, Adult Serenity Pool and exceptional children’s club. Gourmet discoveries Food and wine are one of the highlights of overseas travel and foodies are increasingly well catered for with holidays that centre on gastronomic passions as an integral ingredient. Five star hotels by their nature have good restaurants and cuisine; our selection offers something a little more creative. Fish for your supper at Colony Club, Barbados This oceanfront enclave on Barbados’ famed Platinum coast combines a colonial ambience with first-class recreational facilities. Embark upon the ‘Bait to Plate’ excursion – an opportunity to fish for your supper under the watchful eye of a Colony Club chef; you will observe sea life on the reef before anchoring in prime fishing territory. Upon your return, the chef’s team will fillet and prepare it for you to enjoy in traditional Bajan style in the beautifully refurbished Laguna restaurant, accompanied by delicious fresh produce from the hotel’s new organic garden. Two Michelin-starred restaurants at ABAMA Golf & Spa Resort, Tenerife Set in 160 hectares of luxuriant gardens and sandy bays on Tenerife’s south-western coastline, the ABAMA offers an unrivalled selection of leisure pursuits from its tennis academy to its indulgent award-winning spa. However its gastronomic pedigree is what sets it apart as the island’s leading resort. Boasting two Michelin-starred restaurants, M.B. and Kabuki; guests can sample a further 11 restaurants and bars offering everything from Argentinean steak to local seafood. Try vintages from every wine-producing region in Spain at the Tapas & Wine Bar. Other trends we are predicting for 2014 include creative collaborations, local life, spirit of adventure and set-jetting. Maxine Roberts is Head of Marketing at Carrier.