My Insider Pick: Top Trending Destinations for 2026
2026 might feel like a far-off dream, but trust me - it’ll be here before we know it. And if you’re anything like me, the real thrill is in the planning. I’ve been keeping a close eye on what’s bubbling under the surface, what’s catching my clients’ attention, and where the travel world is setting its sights next. So, here it is: my curated list of destinations that are set to shine in 2026.
1. Japan (beyond Tokyo) Yes, Tokyo will always be a classic. But 2026 is the year to explore deeper. Think Kanazawa’s art scene, the Japanese Alps with their hidden ryokans, and Kyushu’s volcanic landscapes. The cherry blossom crowds are thinning as savvy travellers opt for quieter, more authentic corners of Japan. Plus, the train journeys are an experience in themselves.
2. Namibia I honestly can’t stop talking about Namibia. It’s like nowhere else on Earth -dramatic deserts, ghost towns half-swallowed by sand, and wildlife safaris with not another jeep in sight. It’s remote, yes, but that’s what makes it magic. If you want a proper wow moment, a night under the stars in the NamibRand Reserve will stay with you forever.
3. Sicily Sicily is having a moment (again), and it’s not just because of glossy magazine spreads. It’s the food, the faded grandeur of its towns, the slow, sun-drenched pace of life. I recently planned a trip where every stop was more charming than the last - Taormina, Noto, Ortigia. If you love Italy but want it with a bit more soul (and fewer crowds), this is the one.
4. South Korea Everyone’s talking about it. And once
you go, you get it. Seoul is sleek and stylish, but head out to Jeonju for
street food, or to the coastline for quiet beaches and boutique stays. Korea
balances old and new in a way that makes you feel like you’re constantly
discovering something.
5. Patagonia Yes, it’s remote. Yes, it takes a bit of effort. But oh wow, is it worth it. This is for the nature lovers - jagged mountains, glacial lakes, and that sense of glorious isolation. It’s the sort of place where you genuinely disconnect (there’s barely a signal), and you find yourself again.
6. Saudi Arabia Now, this one surprises people. But Saudi is quietly opening its doors to luxury travellers looking for something off-radar. The landscapes are jaw-dropping - AlUla looks like Mars - and the hospitality is deeply rooted in tradition. If you want to be among the first, this is the time to go.
Every one of these destinations offers something unique - a story, a sensory overload, a connection. And I’m here to help you choose the one that speaks to you most.
Fancy ticking one of these off your list in 2026? Let’s chat
about what that could look like for you.
