9 Places to Put on Your 2026 Travel Radar
Every year, we love looking ahead at what’s shaping the way we travel, and 2026 is already full of exciting inspiration! In this episode, Lisa sits down with travel planner Jen Barnes of Go Family Adventure to talk about the biggest travel trends she’s seeing for 2026, plus nine destinations she believes deserve a spot on your travel radar.
3 Travel Trends Shaping 2026
These trends aren’t about where you go, they’re about how you travel.
1. Slower, Deeper Travel
Instead of trying to “do it all,” travelers are choosing to dive deeper into fewer places.
What this looks like:
Spending more time in one city or region
Fewer hotel changes, more meaningful experiences
Time to wander, talk with locals, and slow the pace
Rather than racing through Spain in eight days, travelers might choose:
Barcelona + one island
One major city paired with a countryside or coastal stay
This approach creates richer experiences, and it’s more sustainable for both travelers and local communities.
2. All-Inclusives & Cruises (Yes, Really)
Once thought to be “over,” cruises and all-inclusive resorts are back and better than ever.
Why they’re booming:
Elevated food, accommodations, and experiences
True luxury options now exist
Minimal planning for travelers with limited PTO
For busy families and couples, there’s something incredibly appealing about:
Unpacking once
Having meals, activities, and entertainment handled
Fully disconnecting from daily life
3. Train Travel as the Experience
Train travel isn’t just transportation anymore, it’s becoming the destination.
What’s trending:
Scenic panoramic routes (like Switzerland’s Bernina Express)
Luxury overnight sleeper trains
Adults-only, high-end experiences with a vintage travel vibe
Think:
Dressing up for dinner onboard
City-to-city travel without airports
A nostalgic, slow-luxury experience
9 Destinations to Put on Your 2026 Travel Radar
1. Sweden (Stockholm + Swedish Lapland)
Sweden offers an incredible mix of urban culture and wild nature.
Highlights include:
Stockholm’s museums, food scene, and design-forward hotels
Swedish Lapland for wildlife, serenity, and outdoor adventure
The Stockholm archipelago for island hopping and local experiences
The best part? Sweden works beautifully year-round. From summer escapes to winter Northern Lights trips!
2. Spain’s Wine Country + The Balearic Islands
Spain remains underrated when it comes to wine travel.
Why this combo works:
Explore Spain’s wine regions by car or train
Experience deep-rooted food and wine culture
Pair countryside travel with Mediterranean island relaxation
Finish your trip in: Majorca or Menorca for beach days, slow mornings, and total reset
3. New Zealand (North + South Islands)
For many travelers, New Zealand is a once-in-a-lifetime trip—and it delivers.
Key tips:
Plan for at least 10 days if traveling from the U.S.
North Island: culture, geothermal areas, wine, scenery
South Island: adventure, hiking, glaciers, dramatic landscapes
New Zealand is investing heavily in attracting U.S. travelers, making now an ideal time to go.
4. Panama
Panama is quietly becoming what Costa Rica was 20 years ago, but with more cultural depth.
What makes Panama special:
Rich history, including the iconic Panama Canal
Vibrant cities with strong Latin American influence
Beaches, jungle adventures, and island hopping
Indigenous culture woven into experiences
Bonus: Panama is easy to reach and works well for shorter trips.
5. Peloponnese Peninsula, Greece
If you’ve already done the Greek islands, this is where to go next.
Why travelers love it:
Deeply authentic Greek culture
Olive plotting farms and ancient ruins
Dramatic sea views without the crowds
Rustic, timeless Mediterranean charm
It offers the beauty of Greece with a quieter, more immersive feel.
6. Milan + The Dolomites (Italy)
With the Winter Olympics spotlighting northern Italy, interest in the Dolomites is soaring.
What to expect:
Unique mountain landscapes south of the Alps
World-class hiking in summer
Ski safaris and hut-to-hut experiences in winter
A perfect blend of culture (Milan) and nature
This region delivers both adventure and elegance.
7. Egypt + Nile River Cruise
A bucket-list destination made even better with the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum!
Why now:
Long-awaited museum brings history to life
Iconic sites like the pyramids and tombs
Nile River cruises add luxury and depth
Best suited for:
Experienced travelers
Couples or adult groups
Those who prefer guided experiences
8. Anguilla
Think of Anguilla as the quieter, more refined cousin to Turks & Caicos.
Why it stands out:
Powdery white sand beaches
Calm, clear waters
Easy to navigate and extremely safe
Options for families and luxury couples trips
It’s relaxed, refined, and refreshingly under the radar.
9. St. Barts
St. Barts is where luxury meets energy.
Perfect for travelers who want:
Stylish beach clubs and nightlife
Incredible shopping and dining
Outdoor adventures like hiking and snorkeling
A glamorous, social atmosphere
This is a splurge destination, but one that delivers unforgettable experiences.
Reach out to Jen Barnes @gofamilyadventure for help planning your next travel adventure!
gofamilyadventure@gmail.com
None of these destinations are brand new, but each is rising for a reason! From slower travel to luxury trains and thoughtfully planned itineraries, 2026 is shaping up to be about intentional, meaningful experiences.
If you’re dreaming of your next trip and want help bringing it all together, working with a travel planner can save time, reduce stress, and elevate your entire experience.
Here’s to dreaming, planning, and traveling well in 2026!