If you are seeking travel inspiration for 2026, a curated list of destinations has emerged, backed by travel experts and industry trends. Whether you crave adventure in Colombia, wish to immerse yourself in South Korean culture, or explore the unspoiled beauty of Georgia, these seven hotspots offer something for every traveller.
Mallorca, Spain
Luxury travel company ASmallWorld has named Mallorca as Spain’s newest ‘It’ island, ranking it among the top five most enquired-about destinations in their discussion hub. CEO Zain Richardson highlights the island’s diversity: “You get the bohemian charm of stone-built villages, the buzz of Palma’s restaurants and galleries, and an ever-changing coastline of quiet calas and long sandy beaches, without having to compromise on comfort or style.” Short transfers, well-developed infrastructure, and a focus on sustainability add to its appeal. Local authorities are tightening regulations on party boats, noisy beach activities, and illegal rentals to curb over-tourism, fostering a calmer, more authentic tourism experience. New luxury hotels, such as the Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra, are set to open in 2026.
The United States
Despite a rocky political climate, the US offers many reasons to visit in 2026. This year marks the 250th anniversary of US independence and the 100th anniversary of Route 66, the iconic 2,400-mile highway. The US is also a host nation for the FIFA World Cup, highlighting cities like Atlanta, Miami, Boston, Seattle, Philadelphia, Dallas, and Kansas City. Dark sky tourism is trending, with prime stargazing spots in Utah, Arizona, and Idaho. A weakening dollar against the pound and more competitive airfares make the US more attractive to British and Irish travellers.
Mozambique
Travel to Mozambique’s northern region bordering Tanzania is not currently advised, but Tom Barber, co-founder of Original Travel, says the rest of the country remains a hot pick for 2026. “What’s happened there is that we’ve seen a whole country get tarred with the same brush, and people aren’t going to Mozambique as much as they should.” Gorongosa National Park, restored after civil war devastation in the 1990s, has opened new lodges this year. Barber notes, “They’ve done an amazing conservation effort. It’s got everything from lions, elephants, buffalo, antelope, you name it.” Mozambique is now considered a ‘bush and beach’ destination, combining safaris with beach breaks. Visitors can enjoy incredible diving with whale sharks, mantas, dolphins, and sea turtles.
Kyrgyzstan
While Uzbekistan is the gateway to Central Asia’s ‘Five Stans’, Kyrgyzstan offers a lovely counterpoint with mountains, walking, and riding – and incredible views. A 2026 documentary by Alexandra Tolstoy will highlight the country’s unspoiled natural beauty, including Köl-Suu lake, glacial Köl-Tör Lake, and the Sary-Chelek Biosphere Reserve. The capital Bishkek boasts a booming foodie and nightlife scene, making Kyrgyzstan one of Central Asia’s best-kept secrets. Intrepid Travel has added a new itinerary for 2026: Trekking the Tien Shan Trails (10 days, from £1,545pp), following nomadic trails past mountains and lakes with nights in traditional yurts.
Colombia
Once a traditional backpacker destination, Colombia is emerging as one of Latin America’s “most inspiring examples of cultural, culinary and creative renewal,” according to Richardson. Luxury brands are taking note: Lonely Planet named Cartagena a top 10 place to visit in 2026, and the new Four Seasons Cartagena is set to open early 2026 in the Getsemaní neighbourhood, next to the UNESCO-listed Walled City. Bogotá and the Medellín region are also having a moment, with Guatapé village and El Peñol highly recommended. An immersive, authentic feel remains, even on higher-priced holidays.
South Korea
From K-pop to Korean skincare, South Korea is hugely popular, and interest is growing. Virgin Atlantic launches its first direct flight from London Heathrow to Seoul in March 2026. Jeju-Do, Korea’s largest island, 50 miles off the mainland, made Lonely Planet’s list at number 17, offering beaches and lush greenery as an antidote to bustling Seoul. Barber notes, “Aman hotels’ baby brand Janu is opening in Seoul, much more aimed at Gen Z. With the K-wave, new flights, and new funky hotels, it’s definitely going to push Seoul travel along.”
Georgia
EasyJet launched a new flight route from London Luton to Tbilisi in late 2025, and additional international routes in 2026 are set to boost visitor numbers to this Eastern European country, previously overshadowed by Turkey. Barber says, “It’s definitely a fabulous country, it will be popular.” Tbilisi boasts grand boulevards, cobbled streets in a historic old town, and famous sulphur baths. Outside the capital, ancient monasteries and cathedrals include the UNESCO-listed Gelati Monastery in Kutaisi. “Everyone we send to Georgia comes back saying it’s just amazing. They’ve got incredible food and the oldest wine making industry in the world,” dating back 8,000 years.
