Affluent travelers to Europe are increasingly seeking privacy, custom-created itineraries, curated experiences, and off-the-beaten path destinations, according to Eurobound, specialists in bespoke travel for independent travelers and small groups.

“Luxury travelers value privacy above all,” says Jeff Roy, Eurobound’s Vice President, Marketing & Sales, citing a recent study of affluent traveler preferences conducted by YouGov Global and the International Luxury Travel Mart. “They prefer traveling by themselves as a couple, family, or group of friends. And they want private tours and experiences with exclusive access.

Custom Itineraries and Curated Experiences Rule

“We’re seeing that affluent travelers increasingly want their itineraries custom-created and one-of-a-kind rather than modified from off-the-shelf solutions. And they’re expressing a desire for curated experiences designed just for them,” says Roy.

To satisfy their travelers’ expectations, it’s important that the travel agent really understand the desires, needs, and uniqueness of each client,” notes Roy. To assist agents, Eurobound has developed a client questionnaire that helps agents identify the client’s priorities, concerns, and special needs, such as type of accommodation desired, preferred mode of transportation, special interests, and dietary concerns.

Using the questionnaire and a suggested itinerary as a base, Eurobound then crafts each trip to the client. A custom trip, for example, might include the following elements:

custom touring by chauffeur-driven car
special after-hours access to museums
private dining experiences
private cooking class with a well-known chef
special meals to fit dietary needs
overnight hike with a private guide
private wine tasting and vineyard visit
local hike with private guide and a gourmet picnic

Off-the-Beaten Path Locales

“The bespoke traveler is experienced and has usually visited Europe’s major capitals. We’re finding that they like to trade major cities for lesser-known areas and regions,” notes Roy. “For instance, they may skip Edinburgh in favor of Scotland’s highlands and North Coast, where they can stay in small villages. Instead of a Rhine Valley cruise, they may visit the Bregenz Woods in western Austria, or they may opt for a free-wheeling itinerary of the Swiss Alps in a Tesla electric car. “

Now celebrating its 22nd year, Eurobound provides distinctive, personalized vacations for independent travelers and small groups, sold exclusively through travel agents. The company pays full commission with delivery of documents. Eurobound is a winner of the French Affairs Award for Best Niche Tour Operator.

Eurobound, www.Eurobound.com