When it comes to shaping global travel trends, identifying the latest hotspots or driving awareness for new cruises, there are different types of influencers: Social media influencers. And the real influencers: travel advisors and travel industry insiders.
Social media influencers are paid to promote destinations, hotels, and cruises. But travel advisors and travel industry insiders recommend each of these things because they’re experienced travel professionals who have a deep understanding of quality, service and the latest industry developments. And in many cases, they’ve also vetted the product being recommended.
So, when it comes to gauging what’s on tap for the year ahead in globetrotting, yes you can scroll your Instagram feed to drool over the latest glossy reels posted by high-paid influencers. But for the real deal, you may also want to tune in to the insider recommendations we’ve gathered from industry professionals who have the inside track on what to see and do in 2026.
We asked each of these professionals to name the top destinations, hotels, and cruise vacations for 2026. Here’s what they had to say.
Best destinations for 2026
Laos
Known for being one of Southeast Asia’s best kept secrets, experts say 2026 will be the year that the country of Laos starts attracting discerning travelers. Traversed by the Mekong River, Laos features mountainous
terrain, French colonial architecture and an abundance of
Buddhist monasteries.
“With increased regional access and quiet luxury hotels like Rosewood Luang Prabang elevating the standard, travelers can enjoy deeply spiritual and culturally rich experiences without the crowds elsewhere in the region,” says Duncan Greenfield-Turk, founder of Global Travel Moments.
Egypt
The official opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum has drawn much global attention to Egypt, making it the place to be right now, says Jozef Verbruggen, founder and director at Untamed Travelling.
“The new Grand Egyptian Museum is certainly number one for history and storytelling, and the ultimate source of our world today,” says Verbruggen, adding: “Cairo today is noticeably cleaner and bustles with life. Old Cairo remains one of the easiest places for travelers to connect with local culture. The markets are active, the souks are open, and the smell of mint tea or fresh bread is literally everywhere.”
On top of all of that, Verbruggen says the Giza Plateau is much cleaner and better managed than it has been in years past. “Pathways are clearer, signage is improved, and the flow of people around the site is more controlled. It makes it easier to actually take in the Pyramids without feeling overwhelmed,” he adds.
An aerial view of the beach in Negril, Jamaica (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock)
Jamaica
Jamaica has been busy recovering and rebuilding after a devastating hurricane and the areas that were impacted are now fully open for business. Translation: There’s no better time to visit the island and show you’re support.
But what makes the island especially compelling for 2026 is the role tourism plays in supporting local livelihoods and long-term economic recovery, says Saskia Jackson, travel advisor and founder of World Travels with Saskia.
“Travelers are increasingly interested in destinations where their presence has a positive impact, and Jamaica offers that in a very tangible way,” says Jackson.
“For families in particular, Jamaica provides an opportunity to travel with purpose. When trips are thoughtfully planned to include locally owned accommodations, cultural experiences, and community engagement, children gain a real understanding of how travel can contribute to rebuilding economies and supporting others,” Jackson adds. “It becomes not just a vacation, but a meaningful learning experience.”
Alentejo, Portugal
Portugal’s Alentejo region is where the most discerning traveler will go quietly in a year where globetrotting is increasingly focused purpose over noise, says LaDell Carter, founder and lead luxury lifestyle travel designer at Royal Expression Travels.
“This region still has an unblemished quality to it; there’s a relaxed pace to life; and the definition of luxury is based upon having enough space, quiet and connecting to the earth,” says Carter.
Although Alentejo encompasses a great deal of Portugal’s geography, it is also one of the country’s least populated areas, making it even more appealing.
“I’m finding my clients are choosing this area as it represents something increasingly rare; the ability to find privacy, natural beauty, and experiences that are not shallow and/or performative, without pretence,” adds Carter.
Mérida, Mexico
Located in the northwest corner of the Yucatán Peninsula (three hours west of Cancun), Mérida stands out as one of the most compelling destinations for 2026, says Rob DelliBovi, owner & CEO of RDB Hospitality.
“It offers the cultural depth travelers are craving without the congestion of larger hubs,” says DelliBovi. “The city has historic architecture, a great culinary scene, and proximity to cultural experiences and sights like cenotes, haciendas, and archaeological sites. It’s perfect for travelers looking for longer, more immersive stays.”
Belize
Another destination that makes DelliBovi’s 2026 to-do list is Belize, which is emerging as a great destination for travelers seeking adventure, wellness, and authenticity without overtourism.
“It offers a rare combination of nature, cultural heritage, and luxury experiences, from jungle lodges and private islands to reef and marine exploration, all within a relatively compact and easy-to-navigate destination,” says DelliBovi.
Ships navigate the Panama Canal. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Harold Stiver)
Panama
Long an under the radar location, the Central American country of Panama is a destination that’s finally getting its moment in the sun. Meaning: You better go before it gets too popular, says travel advisor Jessica Parker, founder of Trip Whisperer.
“New hotels like The Ordovician and air routes in several cities across the US are making it an easy getaway that is a great dupe for Costa Rica,” says Parker. “I love that it even has its own rainforest within the Panama City limits.”
Yes, you read that right, there is an rainforest within Panama City limits. And that’s not all Panama is known for. You’ll also find charming colonial buildings and cobblestone streets in the city’s old town or Casco Viejo district, stunning beaches, opportunities for snorkeling, engaging with indigenous communities and rural agrotourism.
Best hotels for 2026
Rosewood Miyajima, Japan
“Located on sacred ground near the iconic floating tori gate, this new property promises a fusion of heritage and high-touch hospitality,” says Greenfield-Turk, of Global Travel Moments. “It’s a natural next chapter for travelers who’ve already been to Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto… It can be paired with journeys across Hokuriku.”
Azulik Resort Tulum, Mexico
If a visit to the Mexican hotspot of Tulum is on your radar for 2026, you won’t want to miss Tulum Azulik, which stands apart for its striking biomorphic architecture and its ability to immerse guests fully in the surrounding Mayan jungle, says Saskia Jackson, founder of World Travels with Saskia.
“The experience feels more like inhabiting a piece of living art than staying at a traditional resort,” says Jackson.
What makes Azulik especially relevant for 2026 is its commitment to low-impact, off-grid living and sustainability without sacrificing design or comfort.
“The resort’s adults-only, eco-luxury villas, built to exist in harmony with the landscape, encourage travelers to slow down, reconnect with nature, and engage with Mayan-inspired wellness practices in a way that feels both intentional and deeply immersive,” says Jackson.
Herdade da Malhadinha Nova, Alentejo, Portugal
Herdade da Malhadinha Nova is not a hotel, per se. Rather, it is a unique and stunning family owned estate.
“Everything at the estate originates from the ground beneath your feet. Your bread was baked using the wheat produced on the estate. The wine is sourced from the vineyards you pass through on horseback while visiting,” says Carter of Royal Expression Travels. “Eating here is not merely eating, it is telling stories.”
Each room at the estate features a private pool, providing guests a view of vast fields, filled with oak trees and grazing horses. But the defining element that separates Herdade da Malhadinha Nova from other similar destinations is the level of intimacy experienced by guests.
“There’s nothing artificial, no pretension,” says Carter. “Here, luxury is a feeling, grounded and healing. It is the type of destination from which clients leave feeling changed, not simply restored.”
Hotel Sevilla, Mérida, Mexico
The charming Hotel Sevilla offers a vivid example of a charming, boutique property that truly immerses travelers in a location. Translation: Exactly the type of culturally rich boutique stays travelers are seeking in 2026.
“It’s in the heart of Mérida and offers an intimate, locally rooted stay that encourages guests to engage with the city firsthand,” says DelliBovi, of RDB Hospitality Group.
The Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant in Belize, part of the Belize Collection of hotels. (Photo Credit: Courtesy RDB Hospitality Group)
The Belize Collection, Belize
The Belize Collection features an intriguing portfolio of luxury resorts, each of allows travelers to experience the country’s full diversity, from beachfront escapes to jungle retreats.
“Their hotels emphasize sustainability, cultural connection, and rich experiences,” says DelliBovi.
Garza Blanca Cancun Junior Suite (Photo via Garza Blanca Cancun Resort & Spa)
Garza Blanca Cancun, Mexico
The stunning Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Cancun opened its doors in December 2020 to rave reviews. Known for offering an elevated beach getaway, even for families. Jason Wright, founder of Paradise Travel Group, says the property “feels way more luxurious than it’s price point, especially for families.”
“Clients consistently love it because kids under 12 stay free, the food is genuinely excellent, and the overall design feels polished and upscale,” explains Wright. “That combination is rare to come by. The value is especially strong for families who want a refined experience without paying true luxury pricing. It’s one of those resorts that quietly overdelivers on every front.”
Best cruise vacations for 2026
Antarctica Marathon, Event-Driven Expedition Cruises
Event-led expedition cruises are emerging as one of the most exciting
travel formats for 2026. A good example is the Antarctica Marathon, in
which travelers travel by boat out to Antarctica to run a marathon
event, while experiencing one of the world’s most remote regions in a
structured, expertly supported way, says Jeff Adams, president of
Marathon Tours & Travel.
House of Nine Yacht
Yachting vacations are soaring in popularity and there’s one yacht offering in particular that Carter, of Royal Expressions Travels, should be on your list for 2026.
“This new-to-the-scene yacht has just completed its initial sailing and immediately caught our eye,” says Carter. “House of Nine is much like a floating private membership club, carefully designed and curated for both design enthusiasts and culturally-inclined travelers.”
Carter says the experience is ideal for couples and small groups who would like to experience the exclusivity of a private charter experience, yet still desire the camaraderie of a well-designed onboard community.
“House of Nine provides a viable alternative to a traditional cruise for 2026,” says Carter. “It offers an elegant blend of Italian craftsmanship, thoughtful programming and slow travel.”
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