Customized, Upscale Travel on the Rise, Says Amex

In surveying 681 of its travel agents, American Express found that customized vacations are on the rise. More than half of the respondents said travelers are requesting more elaborate and customized trips, with itineraries that include multiple destinations and more personalized arrangements, like cooking classes or private tours. Given all this, it's not surprising that 56 percent of Amex agents said clients are booking more expensive vacations this year. What's more, these travelers are visiting new destinations, 83 percent of agents said, while 52 percent said clients are traveling father away than in years past. (JM)