Get ready to dive into the future of travel! The Condé Nast Traveller's Points of View Summit is an exclusive event that brings together the industry's top minds to shape the travel experiences of tomorrow.
For the second consecutive year, Condé Nast Traveller has unveiled its list of the UK's leading travel specialists. These trusted advisors are the go-to experts for crafting unforgettable journeys, from securing exclusive access to booking immersive experiences. And this year, they gathered at the brand-new Chancery Rosewood in London for a day of insightful discussions.
But here's where it gets intriguing: what trends will define travel in 2026 and beyond? How can luxury brands stay ahead in a competitive market? And how will AI revolutionize the way we plan and perceive travel? These were just some of the captivating topics explored at the summit.
On November 7, 2025, a select group of guests were treated to a private breakfast with Divia Thani, CN Traveller's global editorial director, and Stefan Leser from Adeera Hospitality. Adeera, with plans to launch hotel brands across the Middle East, shared their vision for a homegrown hospitality brand rooted in local culture.
The summit kicked off with a panel hosted by Sarah Allard, CN Traveller's digital director. Industry experts delved into the trends shaping travel in 2026. Off-season travel is on the rise, with travelers considering the impact of weather on their experiences. Cool-cations to Scandinavia and Asturias are gaining popularity. It's a shift from sightseeing to storytelling, with travelers seeking intentional journeys that contribute to society and cultural events.
Next, Olivia Squire, CNT's features editor, sat down with Martin Kuczmarski, the former chief operating officer of Soho House Group and now the mastermind behind Mayfair's The Dover. They discussed the importance of face-to-face interactions, creative spaces for communities, and the value of independence and individuality in hospitality.
The third panel, hosted by Divia Thani, focused on standing out in the luxury world. James McBride, CEO of Nihi, shared stories of how his top customers discovered the island of Sumba, now a haven for tech barons and Hollywood stars. Michael Bonsor, managing director of The Chancery Rosewood, highlighted how the hotel delivers a sense of place, with an impressive art collection and an art concierge.
Helen Brocklebank, CEO of Walpole, emphasized the importance of authenticity and craftsmanship in luxury experiences. Thomas Grundner, chief commercial officer of Adeera, spoke about their upcoming launch in 2026 and the challenge of creating a new luxury brand with purpose.
And this is the part most people miss: the role of AI in travel. Greg Williams, Conde Nast's deputy global editorial director at Wired, moderated a discussion on AI's impact on connectivity, marketing, and authenticity. Leon Suarez from TikTok and Anant Sharma, CEO of Matter of Form, shared insights on how AI can enhance, not replace, the human experience in travel.
The summit concluded with a drinks reception hosted by Castelfalfi, a magical resort in Tuscany, offering guests a taste of truffle-hunting and golf. It was the perfect end to a day filled with inspiring conversations and a glimpse into the future of travel.
So, what do you think? Are you ready to explore the trends and innovations shaping the travel industry? Join the conversation and share your thoughts in the comments!
