When a client asked Paul Largay to book him a trip to Italy, he made sure it included a hot-air balloon ride into the city of Sienna during the annual Palio celebration. For a trip to St. Petersburg, Russia, Largay secured tickets to the Kirov Ballet and arranged for his clients to visit backstage with the ballerinas.
People keep reaching for the unique.
It's gone from destination consumption to destination experience. Many of today's travelers, particularly luxury travelers, appear insatiable. Agents, cruise lines, airlines and hotels head back to the kitchen to concoct even more exotic fare, more lavish service. And the agents strive for that little something extra. Everybody is playing checkmate.