NEW YORK — Not everyone ends up achieving wealth and fame. Nevertheless, many people sometimes feel special, especially during the holidays. Unfortunately, a new survey reveals that a surprising number of Americans believe they have never had a “luxury” moment in their lives.
A fifth of Americans feel they have never experienced “luxury,” according to a new poll. The survey of 2,000 adults asked each respondent about their experience with luxury, particularly travel, and found that 17% had never experienced luxury.
But just because you haven’t experienced it yet doesn’t mean you can’t understand it. 82% think it’s possible to “indulge” while on vacation. When asked what luxuries they would like to include in their dream vacation, Americans’ top desire was a stay at a luxury hotel (50%).
Rounding out the top three luxuries were having a great view from the room (42%) and flying first class to their destination (42%). The top 10 also included opportunities to try new and unexpected things (30%).
The study, commissioned by Visit Anaheim and conducted by Talker Research, also examined what exactly luxury means to Americans in 2024. Less than half (41%) believe that “luxury” is the same as “luxury” and 85% agree that: Luxury means different things to different people.
When asked what luxury means to them, many respondents mentioned expensive or luxury goods, while another said, “Things that make you feel special and happy.” Another said that for them, luxury is “being comfortable and peaceful.”
Another study participant explained that “luxury is about enjoying life to the fullest,” including “indulging in something for yourself, like a special vacation[or]a special purchase.” He explained that it may also be included.
“We accept that luxury means different things to different people,” Visit Anaheim President and CEO Mike Waterman said in a statement. “We believe that the essence of true luxury lies in time and memories with family and friends. That is luxury at its finest.”
For those who splurge on specific things, where to stay will be the top purchase item (55%). This was followed by food (53%) and spending on the destination itself (34%). Americans are also willing to splurge on the length of their stay (33%) and the trip itself (25%). According to respondents, the average “luxury vacation” lasts seven days.
Research method
Talker Research surveyed 2,000 ordinary Americans. This study was commissioned by Visit Anaheim and was managed and conducted online by Talker Research from March 26 to March 31, 2024.
Please note that this study only targeted individuals with internet access, and the results may not be generalizable to those without internet access.