Where Will 2026 Take You? The Destinations Inspiring Deeper, More Meaningful Travel

There’s something about looking ahead to a new year that makes us dream a little bigger.

Maybe it’s a milestone on the calendar.

Maybe it’s the feeling that it’s time to stop postponing the trips you talk about but never quite take.

Or maybe it’s simply the desire to reconnect—with the people you love, with the world, and with yourself.

As 2026 comes into view, I’m seeing a clear shift in how people want to travel. Fewer rushed checklists. More shared meals. More places that feel like something. More moments that linger long after the bags are unpacked.

Inspired by Travel + Leisure’s list of the Best Places to Travel in 2026, I’ve curated destinations that I know my clients are loving right now—places rich in food, culture, connection, and adventure, with just the right amount of ease built in. These aren’t just great places to visit. They’re places that invite you to slow down, savor, and travel together.

Food & Wine Destinations Worth Planning a Trip Around

Some trips are remembered by the landmarks. Others are remembered by the meals.

These are places where food and wine aren’t an add-on—they’re the heartbeat of the experience.

Umbria, Italy

If you love Italy but crave something quieter and more local, Umbria is a dream. Hill towns, vineyards, truffle hunts, and hands-on cooking experiences define this region. Days unfold slowly here, with market visits in the morning and long, candlelit dinners at night. It’s ideal for travelers who want to feel like they belong, not just pass through.

Sancerre, France (Loire Valley)

This is wine country at its most charming. Sancerre offers vineyard views, small-town rhythms, and food that feels deeply rooted in place. Think market mornings, cellar tastings, and leisurely lunches that stretch into the afternoon. It’s perfect for couples or friends who want beauty, flavor, and calm.

Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei is a playground for curious eaters. Night markets buzz with energy, while Michelin-starred restaurants elevate local flavors into unforgettable meals. What makes Taipei special is how seamlessly it blends everyday life with extraordinary food—street snacks one moment, a “wow” dinner the next.

Culture You Can Feel (Not Just Tour)

These destinations shine when travelers want more than sightseeing. They offer culture that’s lived, shared, and woven into daily life.

Singapore

Clean, vibrant, and easy to navigate, Singapore is packed with personality. Neighborhoods tell stories through food, architecture, and design, making it an excellent introduction to Asia—or the start of a larger journey. It’s a place where culture feels accessible and exciting, especially when explored together.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe has soul. Art, history, adobe architecture, and a landscape that invites reflection all come together here. Add in food that feels uniquely “Santa Fe” and a pace that encourages presence, and you have a destination that’s both grounding and inspiring.

Nature & Adventure (With Comfort Built In)

For travelers who want awe-inspiring scenery and meaningful exploration—without sacrificing comfort or good meals.

Asturias, Spain

Green Spain is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Asturias offers dramatic coastline, mountain scenery, cider culture, and deeply local cuisine. It’s Spain at a gentler pace, perfect for travelers who want nature, food, and authenticity without the crowds.

Southern Peru

This region offers vast landscapes and rich culture beyond the typical highlights. Thoughtfully guided experiences, beautiful accommodations, and meaningful cultural connections make Southern Peru ideal for travelers who want depth and intention in their adventures.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is wonderfully layered. Scenic train rides through tea country, wildlife encounters, historic cities, and a stunning coastline all come together in one journey. It’s a place that rewards curiosity and feels especially powerful when experienced slowly.

Beach Lovers (More Than Just a Pretty Shoreline)

For travelers who love the beach—but want more than just a lounge chair.

Okinawa, Japan

Crystal-clear water, island culture, and a slower pace rooted in longevity traditions. Okinawa blends beautiful beaches with meaningful cultural experiences, making it perfect for travelers who want rest and enrichment.

Anguilla

Calm, powdery beaches paired with an excellent dining scene. Anguilla is ideal for couples or milestone trips where beauty, ease, and quiet luxury matter most.

Bodrum, Turkey

A Mediterranean favorite with a glamorous edge. Bodrum combines beautiful coastline, history, and a lively summer atmosphere—perfect for travelers who love beach days followed by vibrant evenings.

Grand Cayman

Known for its beaches and snorkeling, Grand Cayman also surprises travelers with its strong culinary scene. It’s a beach destination that feels well-rounded and engaging.

Let’s Start Dreaming About 2026

If one (or several) of these places sparked that “what if we actually did this?” feeling, I’d love to help you turn that inspiration into a trip that feels personal and meaningful.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, graduation, or simply realizing it’s time to prioritize travel again, 2026 is a beautiful year to say yes.

Together, we can choose the destination that fits your story, design an itinerary that flows, and take the stress out of making it all happen.

When you’re ready, let’s start dreaming—and booking—your 2026 journey. 🥂

Source: Travel + Leisure Editors, “The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2026”, published November 18, 2025.