Luxury Travel

If a new report is any indication, travel companies have a long way to go to enhance their brand value among consumers.

The Aman model of creating sanctuaries in remote settings has proven quite successful since the company's founding in 1988. But now, Aman is looking to translate its ethos into urban spaces.

As guests seek personalization, authenticity, and experiences outside their daily grinds, these well-designed outdoor lodges hit a sweet spot by maintaining a low profile that appeals to their customers' underlying desire to disconnect.

First class is becoming more rarified as carriers emphasize dense business class configurations. But the most exclusive product does still play a role for well-heeled customers and the marketing departments of top carriers.

No doubt destinations are hoping that visitors will return when islands have a chance to recover and clean up. Old habits and geography are in their favor.

The travel space is rich in content. That means it's not "if," but "how" luggage brands craft their messages of exploration and sophistication that will ultimately resonate with the customer.

Fashion luxury brands generally tend to be ahead of travel brands in terms of marketing innovation and sophistication. We'll continue to watch this space.

Why wouldn't Millennials like Aman Hotels? It's among the most luxurious operators in the world. But here's a better question: When they're paying with their own money, will they still be as happy with the brand?

We've heard many of these talking points before by hotel brands seeking to do exactly this. Consumers will respond if the product is good, not if it's "young" and "local."

Crystal Cruises has no shortage of ambitious plans for growth, but those plans have occasionally changed. Its new CEO will need to reassure fans of the luxury brand that the company will steer a consistent course under new leadership.