Here’s what a ‘luxury’ vacation means to Americans who want it — and how to experience it

A fifth of Americans feel like they’ve never experienced “luxury,” according to a new study.

The survey of 2,000 Americans of the general population asked respondents about their experience with luxury, especially when it comes to travel, and found that 17% have never experienced anything luxurious.

But just because they haven’t experienced it yet doesn’t mean it’s out of their control: 82% believe it’s achievable to have “luxury” on vacation.

When asked what luxuries they aspire to include in a dream holiday, staying in high-end accommodation (50%) was the top thing they would want.

Rounding out the top three luxuries were having incredible views from their room (42%) and flying first class to their destination (42%).

Also in the top 10 luxuries respondents would like included on their dream vacation was the chance to try something new or unexpected (30%).

If they were to take a luxury vacation, the average respondent would want to stay for seven nights.

Commissioned by Visit Anaheim and conducted by Talker Research, the survey looked at what exactly luxury means to respondents.

Less than half of respondents (41%) believe that “luxury” is the same as “extravagance” and 85% agreed that luxury means something different to everyone.

When asked what luxury means to them, many respondents mentioned expensive or high-end items, but another wrote, “Something that makes me feel special and happy.” Someone else told them, luxury was, “being comfortable and peaceful.” .â€

Another respondent said, “luxury means enjoying life to the fullest” which for some may include, “indulging in something for myself like a special vacation. [or a] special purchase.â€

“We embrace that luxury means something different to everyone,” said Mike Waterman, President & CEO, Visit Anaheim. “We believe that the essence of true luxury lies in the time and memories made with family and friends: this is truly the greatest luxury of all.”

For those who would splurge on specific things, where they would stay would be the main expense (55%). This was followed by spending on food (53%) and the destination itself (34%).

Respondents would also be willing to brag about how long they are staying (33%) and the trip itself (25%).

“We love planning family getaways, and when we do, it’s essential to know where a splurge can elevate your experience and where you can find the most bang for your buck,” said Heather Rae El Moussa, Selling Sunset alumni and HGTV star. “Whether you’re looking for high-end accommodations, exceptional dining, or exclusive experiences, Anaheim offers a sophisticated selection that makes it the perfect destination for an unforgettable family vacation or staycation, and that’s why we love the visits”.

What luxuries would Americans want on their “dream vacation”??

• Stay at a high-end resort, villa or private property – 50%
• Incredible views from where I’m staying – 42%
• First class flight to my destination — 42%
• Private beach access from where I’m staying – 42%
• Luxury spa treatments or state-of-the-art wellness facilities at the place I’m staying – 38%
• A private chef to cook my meals – 36%
• Luxury transportation options (limousine with driver) — 36%
• Luxury foods (Michelin star restaurants) — 33%
• A pool with an ocean view – 32%
• The opportunity to try something new or unexpected (new food, a new experience, etc.) – 30%
• VIP access to exclusive events or experiences (golf at championship courses, backstage passes to concerts) — 28%
• Ability to cross the line wherever I am at 25%
• Private guided tours in theme parks, monuments, museums, etc. — 23%
• Dedicated concierge services – 22%
• Luxury shopping nearby – 22%
• I don’t have to make reservations or wait my turn – 21%
• Wine or champagne tastings in famous vineyards — 19%
• Personalized itineraries tailored to my preferences — 19%
• Yoga or meditation sessions in scenic settings (on the beach, in the mountains, etc.) — 12%
• A nanny to travel with me and look after my children – 7%

What would respondents “boast” about a luxury vacation?

• Where I’m staying (a nice hotel room, an exclusive resort, etc.) – 55%
• Food (restaurants where I am eating, etc.) — 53%
• Where am I going (destination, if it is a distant country, an expensive city, etc.) — 34%
• How long will I stay (making it an extended trip) – 33%
• The trip itself (flying first class, hiring a driver, etc.) — 25%
• Activities (VIP passes, skipping lines, etc.) — 23%
• What am I bringing with me (designer clothes, etc.) – 7%

Survey methodology:

Talker Research surveyed 2,000 Americans of the general population; The survey was commissioned by Visit Anaheim and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between March 26 and March 31, 2024.