What’s on your travel wishlist for 2026?

How about:

Italy:

Italy remains a top destination, but there are a few other places to check out beyond Rome, Florence, and Venice (although they’re also great.) Regions like Puglia, Umbria, and Lake Garda are dream trips this year with boutique hotels and immersive food experiences.

Taipei:

Taipei blends old and new and there are so many activities to enjoy. Travelers can explore centuries-old temples, hike nearby mountains, soak in hot springs, and experience one of the world’s best food scenes.

Mexico:

Mexico continues to redefine itself and beyond the all-inclusive beach resorts we know and love, travelers can visit Mexico City, Oaxaca, and the Yucatán and enjoy art, history, and great food. There are also wellness-focused resorts and unique cultural excursions that can elevate your experience.

Peru:

Machu Picchu is a beautiful experience but Peru also offers even more. Discover the Sacred Valley, Arequipa, the Colca Canyon, and the Peruvian Amazon. These destinations offer gorgeous landscapes, history, and luxury eco-lodges.

Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa:

Safaris remain one of the most transformative travel experiences available. I experienced a safari in Kenya and it was great seeing animals in their natural environment and meeting many wonderful Kenyan people. This year’s wishlist includes Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa for immersive wildlife encounters, stunning lodges, and conservation-focused tourism.

Japan:

Looking for culture, innovation, and tranquility? Check out Japan. Dream itineraries combine Tokyo and Kyoto with time in Okinawa, where island life offers a refreshing contrast.

Spain:

Spain remains a favorite, but travelers are pairing trips to cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville with coastal escapes in Mallorca or the Costa del Sol. Food, art, walkable cities…what’s not to love?

Reykjavik, Iceland:

Reykjavik is the perfect gateway to Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes. Check out the glacier tours, waterfalls, volcanic terrain, and northern lights experiences, which are balanced with cozy accommodations and geothermal spas.

South Korea:

South Korea is gaining attention for its traditions and food scene. Seoul’s palaces, street food, beauty culture, and high-speed trains are an exciting yet accessible destination.

Are any of these destinations on your wishlist? How are you making 2026 a memorable year of travel?

As always, if you need help, start here.