Difficult-to-access travel spots featuring diverse natural landscapes, such as the Antarctic, appeal to high-end travelers. [Photo provided to China Daily]

The customized-luxury travel market should be worth nearly 100 billion yuan, He adds.

Li Jing has been a specialized tour guide since 2011.

"Many of my customers are either private business owners or are retired, and they generally have good educational backgrounds," the 39-year-old guide says.

Li says that his customer numbers have grown by 10 to 15 percent annually.

The key is to spare them as much trouble as possible during a trip, and ensure seamless hotel and transportation arrangements, he adds.

"We take them to experience local specialties and visit scenic spots of their choosing," Li says.

Zhang is now planning her trip to the Antarctic.

"I've been taking care of my little baby these last few years, and would like to travel again and relax," Zhang says.

"Some people who traveled to the Arctic with me have been raving about the Antarctic, so I'd like to try it, too."