The 17 finest locations to journey in 2026

Make 2026 the 12 months you cease hoarding factors for “sometime” and e book that journey. In a time of uncertainty at dwelling and overseas, journey is likely one of the most potent methods we will proceed to attach with different individuals, cultures and communities throughout the globe. Whether or not you wish to maximize your miles for a can’t-miss occasion, discover a vacation spot that wasn’t in your radar or rediscover a spot you thought you knew, you’ve got come to the precise place.

Every year, The Factors Man’s group of knowledgeable vacationers and our world community of contributors curate a listing of probably the most compelling locations to go to over the following 12 months. Our 2026 listing is formed by a convergence of main world (and cosmic!) occasions, milestone anniversaries and simply cool happenings, making this an particularly thrilling 12 months to journey.

Originally of the 12 months, Italy will take middle stage because the host of the Winter Olympic Video games in Milan and the Dolomites, whereas a complete photo voltaic eclipse will sweep throughout Europe in August. Nearer to dwelling, cities throughout North America will host the FIFA World Cup this summer time whereas the US commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the a hundredth anniversary of Route 66.

Our listing additionally highlights locations which are coming into a brand new chapter, whether or not rebuilding after environmental disasters or redefining themselves for the long run.

Within the U.S., Asheville, North Carolina, and the encompassing Blue Ridge Mountains are able to welcome vacationers once more following Hurricane Helene, whereas Seattle’s waterfront renaissance alerts a broader pattern towards revitalizing city areas. Overseas, cities like Prague are evolving into extra refined, luxury-forward locations as they reply to overtourism and spend money on higher-end journey experiences.

We’re additionally very excited in regards to the new factors motels, flight routes and cruise ships which are unlocking locations that had been as soon as tougher to achieve (each bodily and through the use of miles).

Smaller cities are having a second, too, together with Halifax, Nova Scotia, the place new motels, eating places and a reimagined waterfront district are drawing elevated consideration. Locations farther afield have gotten extra accessible because of improved infrastructure and the enlargement of main resort manufacturers. Uzbekistan now has the JW Marriott Resort Tashkent and expanded high-speed rail connections, whereas the Peruvian Amazon will see a number of new cruise ships plying its waters this 12 months. In the meantime, the Malaysian resort scene continues to achieve new heights (actually, within the case of Kuala Lumpur), with beautiful new factors motels starting from stable price range choices to beautiful luxurious digs.

Learn on to find all 17 locations we’re most enthusiastic about in 2026, together with suggestions for getting these journeys off your imaginative and prescient board and onto your calendar utilizing factors and miles.

— Lyndsey Matthews

Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains

Greatest for outside fanatics who wish to make an impression

After the devastation of 2024’s Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina mountain metropolis of Asheville is again and higher than ever. Not solely have 90% of shuttered companies reopened, however the superb Blue Ridge Parkway — 469 miles of scenic drive by means of the encompassing Blue Ridge Mountains — has additionally absolutely reopened.

The hard-hit River Arts District is usually recovered, and native artists are desperate to welcome vacationers to freshly opened galleries and studios the place you possibly can watch them at work, hear their private tales from the hurricane and even attempt your hand at an artwork class.

Past its inventive spirit, Asheville can also be recognized for its vibrant meals and craft beer scene, with a robust emphasis on regionally farmed and foraged components. You will discover all the pieces from Southern consolation delicacies to absolutely vegan fare, from Indian road meals to a James Beard Award finalist Filipinx restaurant.

Once you’re able to hit the paths, the encompassing Blue Ridge Mountains are an adventurers paradise. You possibly can hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway from Asheville’s southern aspect or discover mountaineering trails for all ability ranges inside an hour’s drive of town. For somewhat extra adrenaline, attempt tubing, kayaking or zip-lining within the close by Inexperienced River Gorge.

And in the event you focus your consideration on native small companies — the easiest way to expertise Asheville anyway — you possibly can really feel good realizing your vacationer {dollars} are serving to to proceed the rebuilding course of.

TPG tip: Asheville has no scarcity of factors motels. Standout choices embrace the hip, artsy The Radical within the coronary heart of the River Arts District. For a extra outdoorsy getaway, contemplate one in every of AutoCamp’s luxurious cabins or refurbished Airstream trailers at AutoCamp Asheville, slated to open in early 2026.

— Rachel Craft

Mallorca, Spain

Greatest for viewing Europe’s complete photo voltaic eclipse

It is all the time a good suggestion to take a vacation to Mallorca, however the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands will probably be of specific curiosity subsequent August because it falls immediately within the path of a complete photo voltaic eclipse. And along with being a beautiful spot to plant your self for viewing celestial wonders, the island has a well-deserved fame for recent and scrumptious seafood, dreamy seashores, and an elegant resort scene that is getting even higher with the addition of two new luxurious motels.

In July, Mallorca will welcome Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra, with its clifftop perch overlooking the scenic Costa d’en Blanes peninsula. The model’s first Balearic location is bound to be one of the crucial well-liked hideaways for these viewing the eclipse, so e book now whereas there may be nonetheless availability.

The 4 Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor absolutely reopened in March 2025 after a yearslong refurbishment that concerned restoring and renovating the long-lasting property to a brand new degree of luxurious. The resort has 100 personal acres of seaside forests, meandering gardens, sea-facing terraces and island-inspired design. And one of the best half: It is bookable through American Specific Tremendous Motels + Resorts in addition to Chase’s The Edit.

The whole photo voltaic eclipse is predicted to be seen from Mallorca on the night of Aug. 12, lasting beneath two minutes and almost coinciding with the island’s finest nightly present: sundown. You possibly can think about that seeing the eclipsed solar, seen just some levels above the horizon, can be an unimaginable expertise from any seaside or cliffside — however we predict it will be finest loved from one of many island’s two hottest new properties.

TPG tip: Have some spare IHG One Rewards factors? Take into account an in a single day journey to Menorca for a keep on the forthcoming Resort Indigo (opening this summer time).

— Ellie Nan Storck

Miches, Dominican Republic

Greatest for an elevated all-inclusive expertise away from the crowds

At TPG, we have been shouting from the proverbial rooftops that all-inclusive resorts have lastly found out the best way to do it proper. And main resort manufacturers with loyalty applications (like Hilton, Hyatt and Marriott) are in on the motion. At many more moderen resorts, the times of bland meals, watered-down drinks and compelled leisure are gone, together with the opposite stereotypes sometimes related to the “know what you pay up entrance” trip mannequin.

If that is the golden age of all-inclusives, although, Miches — positioned on the northeast coast of the Dominican Republic — is a spot to regulate. Well-known for its dozens of all-inclusive resorts, the Dominican Republic has lengthy been one of many go-to spots for one of these trip, particularly on the favored seashores round Punta Cana. Nevertheless, these seashores and resorts can develop into crowded, and now individuals are making the 1 1/2-hour drive from Punta Cana Worldwide Airport (PUJ) to new resorts in Miches.

Hilton loyalists can flip Hilton Honors factors into an all-inclusive keep at Zemi Miches Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort, Hilton’s first Curio Assortment all-inclusive resort within the nation. Our evaluation hit on precisely why Miches is the place to go: “The resort really appears like a secluded island paradise from the second you arrive.” What else are you able to ask for?

Hyatt has additionally planted its all-inclusive flag in Miches with two openings: Desires Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa and Secrets and techniques Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa. At Desires, your complete household is welcome to take pleasure in Miches’ lovely seashores, dancing palm timber, and lots of eating places and bars. In the meantime, Secrets and techniques, an adults-only resort, would make for a dream honeymoon beneath the inviting Dominican solar.

TPG tip: Irrespective of the place you keep, let the resort prepare your transportation from PUJ for ease and affordability. The transportation space at this airport could be overwhelming, and after an extended flight, who would not need all the pieces made simple?

— Tanner Saunders

Peruvian Amazon

Greatest for adventurers in search of bucket list-worthy wildlife

Nature lovers will probably be spoiled for selection within the Peruvian Amazon, a swath of rainforest and cloud forest that covers roughly 60% of the nation and teems with biodiversity.

River cruises supply a very handy technique to discover this far-flung wilderness, as you possibly can keep in the identical (floating) room slightly than hopping from one lodge to a different. Abercrombie & Kent’s first Amazon riverboat, Pure Amazon, launched in 2025, and andBeyond’s Amazon Explorer yacht will debut in September. Moreover, Lindblad Expeditions is increasing its choices with the not too long ago chartered Delfin III, which is able to greater than double the road’s occupancy within the area beginning in February.

You possibly can count on adventurous shore excursions like fishing for piranhas, swimming with pink Amazon river dolphins and visiting a neighborhood shaman. Should you’re fortunate, you may spot animals discovered nowhere else on this planet, like jaguars, black caimans and Amazonian manatees.

You will discover fascinating jungle cities, too, with a far totally different environment and tradition from the remainder of Peru. Take the island metropolis of Iquitos, accessible solely by boat or aircraft, the place locals dwell in stilt homes and dine on crispy skewered suri grubs and different Amazonian delicacies. Or go to the distant riverbank communities of the Indigenous riberenos individuals, who nonetheless apply historical traditions like looking, gathering and touring by dugout canoe to at the present time. You may also study in regards to the area’s historical past at Iquitos’ museums and lesser-known archaeological websites, just like the pre-Inca Kuelap Fortress ruins.

TPG tip: Though you possibly can’t simply e book a river cruise with factors, there are methods to save cash in your journey right here. Lima’s Jorge Chávez Worldwide Airport (LIM) is on the tail finish of a serious enlargement, and Delta Air Strains launched nonstop flights from Salt Lake Metropolis in December 2025. IHG additionally opened three new motels in 2025 — InterContinental Actual Lima Miraflores; Resort Indigo Lima Miraflores; and Souma Lima, Vignette Assortment — making layovers within the capital simpler than ever on factors.

— Rachel Craft

Botswana

Greatest for experiencing the human aspect of safaris

A safari typically means lengthy, dusty days in an open-top car, stalking always-moving prides of lions or herds of elephants, maybe stopping alongside the best way to identify a colourful fowl with borrowed binoculars or study in regards to the comings and goings of a plodding leopard tortoise or a shy bat-eared fox.

However in Botswana, a brand new period is dawning, with outfitters taking vacationers past the same old hourslong recreation drives and immersing them within the extra human aspect of a safari.

Lengthy-standing outfitters like Desert & Delta Safaris, which operates 10 camps all through the nation, are incorporating extra wildlife-adjacent actions into itineraries; spend a number of days chasing after wily African canine, then study in regards to the people who’ve lived on this area for millennia.

Botswana is especially suited to this path because of its assorted landscapes and waterscapes, together with the ecologically astounding (and UNESCO-listed) Okavango Delta; the sere, otherworldly terrain of the distant Makgadikgadi Salt Pans; and the riverine channels of the Linyanti area.

Throughout a weeklong journey, you would possibly spend a while at Nxamaseri Island Lodge within the Okavango panhandle, which by no means goes fully dry, and find out how native fishermen scan for eddies within the present to catch tiger fish and bream (or spot a uncommon clawless African river otter on the identical mission as you). You would possibly spend one other evening at Nxamaseri’s new (opened in September 2024) campout website operated at the side of the Indigenous Ju/’hoansi individuals, who will share their conventional dances with you earlier than a sundown cookout. After slumbering in historically impressed (however luxuriously appointed) huts, you may awaken at daybreak to hike by means of the UNESCO-listed Tsodilo Hills in search of centuries-old petroglyphs, together with some depicting wild recreation.

If you find yourself executed watching infinite dazzles of zebras whinny and cavort alongside the seasonal Boteti River at Leroo La Tau, you would possibly take the four-hour drive east to the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, watching the wildlife and vegetation develop into sparser and sparser till it looks as if you might be driving alongside the floor of the moon. Dinner by firelight precedes a star-spotting session or maybe an evening of storytelling beneath an incandescent full moon.

The general impact is to supply guests with a extra well-rounded expertise of Botswana, one which encompasses not simply its unmatched wildlife but in addition the individuals who name it dwelling. Your time within the nation — exploring each its wildlife riches, indelible landscapes and uniquely vibrant Indigenous cultures — will go away you in awe in any respect the fantastic, distant corners nonetheless to discover on this planet. And if that is not the purpose of journey, what’s?

TPG tip: Many safari itineraries depart from the regional hub of Maun Worldwide Airport (MUB) within the north of the nation. It can save you cash on in any other case costly flights by redeeming both United MileagePlus miles or Qatar Airways Avios for flights on South African airline Airlink, which flies from Maun to each Cape City Worldwide Airport (CPT) and Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo Worldwide Airport (JNB).

— Eric Rosen

Kvarner Gulf, Croatia

Greatest for foodies in search of an up-and-coming factors vacation spot

Removed from Croatia’s vacationer sizzling spots of Dubrovnik and Cut up, the quiet Kvarner Gulf on the northern Adriatic is gaining consideration as one of many 2026 European Areas of Gastronomy. The designation, awarded yearly by the Barcelona-based Worldwide Institute of Gastronomy, Tradition, Arts and Tourism, celebrates the world’s culinary heritage, together with its 36 indigenous grape varieties, giant neighborhood of olive growers and honey producers, and the native Kvarner scampi, a candy langoustine considered probably the greatest on this planet.

Style a few of these delicacies at annual occasions within the area, just like the Chocolate Competition in Opatija, the Scampi Competition on the Crikvenica-Vinodol Riviera, and the Style the Mediterranean competition, which Mali Losinj hosted final 12 months. (Occasion dates for 2026 have but to be confirmed.)

Kvarner can also be having a serious resort growth, centered within the coastal city of Opatija, which had its heyday through the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Now, this historic seaside resort city is within the midst of a factors resort renaissance, sparked by the 2024 opening of the Keight Resort Opatija, Curio Assortment by Hilton, and persevering with with the 2026 debuts of the Opatija Marriott Resort & Spa and the Sealeven Resort & Residences, an apartment-style Vacation spot by Hyatt property.

Should you’d slightly escape to one of many islands scattered throughout the bay, Marriott opened its first Autograph Assortment property in Croatia, The Isolano, on the island of Cres in 2025. The adults-friendly property for friends 12 and up presents direct seaside entry and a 5,000-square-foot wellness space.

TPG tip: The closest worldwide airport with direct flights from the U.S. is Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE), a few three-hour drive away. Nevertheless, in April, United Airways will launch a direct flight from Newark Liberty Worldwide Airport (EWR) to Cut up Airport (SPU) for vacationers who additionally wish to discover southern Croatia.

— Lyndsey Matthews

Philadelphia

Greatest for ringing in America’s 250th birthday

In 2026, cities throughout the nation will mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, however nowhere will celebrations be extra spirited than in Philadelphia, the birthplace of the nation and American democracy itself.

The nation’s origin story will probably be on show on the Museum of the American Revolution, the place “The Declaration’s Journey” exhibition highlights the creation and legacy of the Declaration of Independence. On the Nationwide Structure Heart, which is present process its first main renovation since opening in 2003, guests can discover two new galleries and examine one in every of solely 14 surviving unique copies of the U.S. Structure, on show by means of 2026.

The 12 months’s calendar is full of marquee occasions, too. March Insanity suggestions off in Philly with the NCAA males’s basketball match, the PGA Championship returns in Could, and the FIFA World Cup brings two matches to Lincoln Monetary Discipline, the second happening July 4. The festivities proceed with the MLB All-Star Sport later that month.

On the cultural entrance, “A Nation of Artists” at each the Philadelphia Museum of Artwork and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Tremendous Arts will showcase probably the most in depth American artwork survey to come back to Philly. Mural Arts Philadelphia is about to unveil new large-scale initiatives, underscoring why town is the mural capital of the world. And the free, multiweek competition Wawa Welcome America builds from Juneteenth to Independence Day, culminating with the nation’s largest Fourth of July parade, a headline live performance on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and fireworks above the artwork museum steps. (Additionally on the parkway: the brand new Calder Gardens, a cutting-edge sculpture backyard highlighting the work of artist Alexander Calder.)

The town’s restaurant scene bought a brighter highlight as Michelin launched its “Northeast Cities” version in 2025, the primary to incorporate Philly. Three eating places nabbed a star — Rittenhouse Sq. darling Friday Saturday Sunday amongst them — and greater than two dozen others had been advisable. Add in new motels slated to open in 2026, which embrace The Bourse (a Hilton Tapestry Assortment property in Previous Metropolis) and The Waylen (a Hyatt Unbound Assortment opening on the Navy Yard) — and Philadelphia is on observe for a milestone 12 months.

TPG tip: Skip dear ride-hailing companies and seize a $13 SEPTA day move. Philadelphia’s subway and bus system makes it simple to navigate from historic websites or sports activities occasions to neighborhoods like Fishtown and Rittenhouse Sq..

— Regan Stephens

Uzbekistan

Greatest for witnessing a brand new period of Silk Street journey

When the 14th-century Moroccan explorer Ibn Battuta described Samarkand as one of many best cities of the world, “and most good of them in magnificence,” he captured the timeless attract of the Silk Street, a 2,200-year-old route the place retailers traded textiles, jewels, spices and fragrance throughout continents.

No marvel Uzbekistan is experiencing a tourism growth, with 50% extra worldwide guests arriving in 2025 in comparison with 2024. And people numbers will undoubtedly rise now that Individuals can go to the Central Asian nation for as much as a month with out a visa, a change launched firstly of the 12 months.

Samarkand accomplished its bold 640-acre Silk Street advanced in 2024, with eating places and cafes, gardens, waterways, and loads of procuring the place you are able to do as the traditional merchants did and choose up rugs, pottery and intricately embroidered textiles. And of the advanced’s eight motels, three are Hilton properties.

In Uzbekistan’s capital, Tashkent, the multimillion-dollar Heart for Islamic Civilization is scheduled to open this spring, with a mixture of museum displays and educational analysis services. Making its splashy debut in December 2025, the JW Marriott Resort Tashkent radiates Silk Street opulence, with shimmering beaded gentle installations, a hammam-like tiled spa, and each an indoor pool and rooftop infinity pool. Marriott will proceed to develop its footprint throughout town with a brand new Fairfield by Marriott later in 2026, adopted by an Aloft in 2027 and a Ritz-Carlton in 2028.

With all the brand new developments, Uzbekistan continues to have fun its historical cultural and pure wonders. The nation at present has seven UNESCO World Heritage Websites and has proposed almost a dozen extra for addition to UNESCO’s tentative listing of prospects over the past two years.

TPG tip: Journey each to and round Uzbekistan is simpler than ever. U.S. passengers can fly immediately from John F. Kennedy Worldwide Airport (JFK) to Tashkent Worldwide Airport (TAS) on Uzbekistan Airways 5 occasions per week. This spring, Etihad Airways is introducing a brand new connection to TAS through Abu Dhabi’s Zayed Worldwide Airport (AUH), whereas the Uzbek airline Centrum Air is launching new routes through main European hubs like Frankfurt Airport (FRA) and Copenhagen Airport (CPH).

A bullet prepare now connects three of Uzbekistan’s prime vacationer locations: Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara. By mid-2026, high-speed service is deliberate to increase to Khiva and its spectacularly preserved walled metropolis of Itchan Kala, decreasing journey time from 14 hours to 7 1/2 hours.

— Melanie Haiken

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Greatest for seaside allure with a distinctly Canadian really feel

Nestled alongside Nova Scotia’s rugged shoreline, Halifax combines coastal allure and cosmopolitan buzz, and 2026 will supply much more methods to discover this North Atlantic vacation spot.

The town debuted its first skilled ladies’s soccer membership in April of 2025, welcomed an upscale new factors resort this 12 months and continues to be an outside lovers paradise, with fresh-air points of interest like Level Nice Park, with its 180-plus acres of forested trails and paths, and Carter’s Seashore, which obtained Provincial Park designation and safety in late 2023.

After all, a visit to Nova Scotia would not be full with out attempting out the native catch. Halifax’s Cunard district, a full of life new addition to the waterfront, presents an abundance of seafood-centric eating places, like Water Polo, Tribute, Matadora, Creme and Asia — all of that are conveniently positioned close to a number of the metropolis’s finest procuring.

Plus, it is simpler to get to utilizing miles. United Airways is launching a seasonal direct flight from Dulles Worldwide Airport (IAD) close to Washington, D.C., to Halifax Stanfield Worldwide Airport (YHZ) in Could, becoming a member of an American Airways flight from O’Hare Worldwide Airport (ORD) that debuted in 2025, and each American and Delta routes from LaGuardia Airport (LGA) that launched in 2024.

When you land, there are many decisions for the place to remain, a lot of which supply ocean-facing lodging — together with a number of new factors motels. This previous spring, town welcomed Muir, a Luxurious Assortment Resort, Halifax to town’s waterfront Queen’s Marque neighborhood, and in 2024, Canada’s first Moxy resort (Moxy Halifax Downtown) opened. The Resort Halifax — a downtown mainstay immediately linked to the conveniences of the Scotia Sq. improvement — simply reopened its doorways this previous summer time because it wrapped up an ongoing transformation.

Halifax additionally marked its longest-ever cruise season in 2025 (lasting by means of November), as Virgin Voyages made its debut on Canada’s Atlantic coast with Good Woman, the model’s latest ship, which is able to return in 2026.

TPG tip: Should you plan a summertime journey, pack your headlamp and join a bioluminescent sea kayak evening tour, which takes attendees out to calm seas throughout the brand new and first-quarter moons in late summer time for a bioluminescence gentle present under the water.

— Ellie Nan Storck

Guatemala

Greatest for a mixture of pure points of interest and cultural experiences

Guatemala is a panoramic, comparatively under-the-radar different to Central America’s extra touristed (and higher-priced) nations.

Vacationers fascinated by historical ruins can go to Tikal, a spectacular Mayan archaeological website designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Web site. These in search of wellness experiences alongside volcano views can head to Lake Atitlan to take pleasure in yoga retreats and keep in waterfront ecolodges like Laguna Lodge and La Fortuna. In the meantime, nature lovers can discover the limestone swimming pools and caves of Semuc Champey, or enterprise into the rainforests of Lake Peten Itza.

In Antigua, a metropolis about 25 miles from the nation’s worldwide airport, you may discover colourful buildings, cobblestone streets, and loads of fashionable eating places and rooftop bars from which to take pleasure in views of the encompassing volcanoes. If you wish to get a brand new perspective, head about an hour away from town for a guided hike up the vertiginous slopes of Acatenango.

A rustic deeply rooted in its Mayan heritage, Guatemala hosts wealthy cultural celebrations all year long. Tens of hundreds of vacationers flock to its annual Semana Santa celebrations, which have earned a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage designation.

Guatemalan and Mexican authorities officers not too long ago confirmed that the Maya Prepare — a Mexican railway system selling sustainable tourism within the area — will ultimately develop into Guatemala, making it simpler for vacationers to go to Tikal, Flores and different northern Guatemalan locations.

What’s extra, points-savvy vacationers can try well-liked Mr & Mrs Smith properties — like Casa Palopo on Lake Atitlan and Villa Bokeh in Antigua — which are bookable with World of Hyatt factors.

TPG tip: Flying to Guatemala is getting extra handy. In 2025, JetBlue launched service from Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood Worldwide Airport (FLL) to La Aurora Worldwide Airport (GUA) in Guatemala Metropolis, whereas Avianca launched new every day service from Miami Worldwide Airport (MIA). Plus, carriers like United Airways and Alaska Airways function nonstop service to GUA from cities like Los Angeles, Chicago and New York Metropolis.

— Mackenzie Roche

Milan and the Dolomites, Italy

Greatest for sports activities followers in search of a dose of Italian tradition and delicacies

Northern Italy’s Dolomites mountain vary and its neighboring metropolis, Milan, will take middle stage because the hosts of the 2026 Winter Olympic Video games in February and Paralympic Winter Video games in March.

A UNESCO World Heritage Web site, the Dolomites are a year-round playground for outside fanatics in search of actions similar to snowboarding, mountaineering, exploring glacial lakes and extra. And whereas the Winter Video games will draw crowds to cities like Cortina d’Ampezzo, Bormio and Livigno, sports activities followers can sit up for additionally experiencing the area’s convergence of Austrian and Italian tradition, meals and structure, which passed off after Italy annexed a number of provinces after World Struggle I.

New motels within the Dolomites embrace the absolutely renovated and rebranded Aman Rosa Alpina, a luxurious family-friendly mountain lodge in San Cassiano, and Casa Cook dinner Madonna, a extra trendy adults-only property in Madonna di Campiglio. Though there isn’t any official reopening date for 2026, a large renovation is underway following Mandarin Oriental’s acquisition of the legendary Resort Cristallo, now often known as Mandarin Oriental Cristallo.

Roughly a three-hour prepare or automobile experience from the area will deliver you to trendy Milan, which is internet hosting the Olympic opening ceremony in addition to skating and ice hockey occasions. Past the Video games, guests ought to carve out time to see the hanging Gothic Duomo; Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, “The Final Supper;” and town’s many galleries, such because the Pinacoteca di Brera.

Milan has seen a formidable resort enlargement throughout the final 12 months, with the opening of the elegant Casa Brera, a Luxurious Assortment Resort in late 2024, which formally joined Marriott’s portfolio in early 2025. Two extra extremely anticipated luxurious motels are set to open in 2026: Six Senses Milan and Rosewood Milan.

Alongside town’s rising resort footprint, airways have additionally expanded their route community to Milan. In 2025, American Airways and Delta Air Strains added nonstop routes to Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) from Philadelphia Worldwide Airport (PHL) and Boston Logan Worldwide Airport (BOS). In March, American will launch every day service from Miami Worldwide Airport (MIA) to MXP. In Could, JetBlue will start service from BOS to MXP.

TPG tip: Milan is the best jumping-off level to go to a neighboring vacation spot like Lake Como, which welcomes the brand new Lake Como Version in March. For many who wish to enterprise to a close-by nation, sans flights, new Trenitalia high-speed prepare service will launch in 2026 between Milan and Munich.

— Gabrielle Bernadini

Seattle

Greatest for exploring a revitalized downtown inside strolling distance of FIFA World Cup video games

Seattle is prepared for the world to reach. Forward of internet hosting six FIFA World Cup 2026 matches at Lumen Discipline — together with the extremely anticipated match between the USA and Australia on June 19 — town reimagined its waterfront, invested in modern and sustainable new motels, and established thrilling artwork hubs.

In Pioneer Sq., inside strolling distance of the stadium, discover new additions like a trio of eating places from James Beard Award-winning chef Renee Erickson, an outpost of New York Metropolis’s Loss of life and Co. cocktail bar (opening in spring), and the second location of the Populus Resort model. Within the South Lake Union neighborhood, the 1 Resort Seattle remodeled the Pan Pacific Resort right into a lush oasis with views of the Area Needle.

In 2025, after almost twenty years, Seattle’s Waterfront Park changed the previous Alaskan Approach Viaduct with a 20-acre park stretching from Pioneer Sq. as much as Belltown with new pedestrian and bike paths, playgrounds, seashores, and piers internet hosting live shows and different neighborhood occasions. The Seattle Aquarium additionally opened an adjoining enlargement in 2024. The Ocean Pavilion options 500,000 gallons of tropical saltwater for animals from the Pacific Ocean’s Coral Triangle, together with leopard sharks and bowmouth guitarfish. Its roof doubles because the Overlook Stroll pedestrian promenade, which connects the waterfront to Pike Place Market and the remainder of downtown.

Artwork lovers also can discover a number of new tradition hubs downtown, together with the Cannonball Arts Heart, with two tales of up to date artwork inside the previous Mattress Tub & Past in Belltown, and Tidelands, an Indigenous artwork gallery close to Pike Place Market.

TPG tip: These flying to Seattle can take pleasure in the brand new Delta One Lounge at Seattle-Tacoma Worldwide Airport (SEA), which spans almost 11,000 sq. ft and options an open-air terrace with views of Mount Rainier.

Taking the prepare? The Amtrak Cascades line, which runs from Eugene, Oregon, to Vancouver, British Columbia, will debut brand-new prepare vehicles in 2026. Along with new interiors with panoramic home windows and a redesigned cafe automobile serving native meals and drinks, the brand new prepare vehicles will probably be extra fuel-efficient, producing much less air air pollution.

— Lyndsey Matthews

Malaysia

Greatest for thrilling new factors stays in Southeast Asia

Resort aficionados are going to have loads of new locations to redeem factors in Malaysia this 12 months, because of a number of thrilling debuts.

The Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur opened in August 2025 atop Asia-Pacific’s tallest skyscraper, Merdeka 118 (an commentary deck will open in 2026). It’s a Class 5 Hyatt property, which suggests you possibly can redeem as few as 17,000 World of Hyatt factors per evening for these unbelievable views. Hyatt factors can even turn out to be useful on the new Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown, which opened in August 2025, and is a Class 2 resort out there for as few as 6,500 factors per evening.

Should you want Marriott Bonvoy, the Moxy Kuala Lumpur Chinatown opened in April 2025 with award nights beginning at 5,000 factors. In the meantime, Malaysia’s first Kimpton, the Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur, additionally opened in late 2025, whereas the Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur and Conrad Kuala Lumpur are each scheduled to open in 2026.

However there’s a lot extra to Malaysia’s resort growth than Kuala Lumpur. Penang — a Malaysian state famend for its picturesque panorama and George City, a UNESCO World Heritage Web site — can also be experiencing a surge in resort openings.

The Millen Penang, Autograph Assortment opened in February 2025 with award nights beginning at 33,000 factors, and the Westin Residences & Resort, Penang is slated to open in 2026. George City’s iconic India Home additionally not too long ago underwent a landmark restoration challenge that included the brand new Peninsula Home restaurant opening within the constructing in 2024.

Malaysia additionally obtained its sixth UNESCO World Heritage Web site designation in July 2025 with the Forest Analysis Institute Malaysia Forest Park close to Kuala Lumpur in Selangor.

TPG tip: Though there aren’t any direct flights between the U.S. and Kuala Lumpur, you possibly can attain town with only one cease from most main U.S. hubs. Alternatively, contemplate flying nonstop to Singapore from a serious U.S. hub, go to Singapore for a number of days after which take a brief flight to Kuala Lumpur (or your most well-liked Malaysian vacation spot).

— Katie Genter

Australia’s Crimson Centre, Northern Territory

Greatest for connecting with historical landscapes and tradition

To disconnect from the hectic world, head to Australia’s Crimson Centre within the rugged Northern Territory, the center of the Outback and residential to Aboriginal peoples who’ve lived constantly on the sacred land for not less than 30,000 years.

Beginning in Alice Springs, a journey with Alice Springs Expeditions could have you mountaineering the West MacDonnell Ranges, the place vacationers are invited to swim in superb swimming holes like Ellery Creek Massive Gap or within the shadows of Ormiston Gorge. After checking in to the Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters (of “The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert” fame and bookable with IHG One Rewards factors), head to Earth Sanctuary to see stars so vivid you wish to attain out and contact them.

Towards the south, the majestic formations of Uluru-Kata Tjuta Nationwide Park await guests desperate to study in regards to the non secular connection between the pure wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage Web site and the Anangu individuals, the normal homeowners of the sacred space.

In 2026, Inside Australia Journey will supply a brand new five-day, four-night, roughly 34-mile stroll, inclusive of luxurious lodge stays (together with the choice to sleep beneath the celebrities in one of the crucial distant spots on this planet) and meals. Over the multiday journey, hear the traditional tales of the Anangu individuals whereas exploring on foot.

Moreover strolling, friends can expertise the nationwide park in luxurious tents at Longitude 131° or at variously priced lodging at Ayers Rock Resort. Simply you’ll want to get up early for the majestic Desert Awakenings expertise for a dawn you may always remember, and watch the sundown through the Wintjiri Wiru eating expertise, the place a drone and laser present over Uluru tells a standard Anangu story.

TPG tip: Visiting Australia’s Crimson Centre is a journey, as is attending to Australia as an entire. Fortunately, a sequence of latest routes makes it simpler, together with Los Angeles to Brisbane on American, Los Angeles to Melbourne on Delta, San Francisco to Adelaide on United and Dallas-Fort Price to Sydney on Qantas.

And for a novel technique to attain the Crimson Centre, The Ghan, one in every of Australia’s luxurious trains, will introduce two new suites, the “Australis” and “Aurora,” on choose journeys between Darwin and Adelaide with stops in Alice Springs and the close by mountains and upgradeable experiences to go to Uluru.

— Tanner Saunders

Prague

Greatest for luxurious journey in a metropolis redefining itself

Prague is shedding its fame as a playground for backpackers and bachelor events to courtroom a extra discerning sort of traveler. Not too long ago, the Czech capital banned organized pub crawls and electrical scooter leases, whereas reworking historic Previous City landmarks into luxurious motels. The Andaz Prague opened within the neoclassical Sugar Palace in 2022, adopted by the W Prague inside a legendary artwork nouveau resort in 2024, and the Fairmont Golden Prague in a brutalist constructing on the Vltava River in 2025.

The Michelin Information expanded nationwide for the primary time in 2025, however do not count on conventional roast pork and bread dumplings at locations like Stangl, which simply earned its first Michelin star and as an alternative serves hyperlocal components like pikeperch with pickled elderflower and hazelnut oil. Vietnamese meals can also be having a second as the youngsters of immigrants who got here within the Nineteen Seventies open fine-dining eating places like Taro, which presents a five-course Vietnamese tasting menu that harks again to household favorites like bo la lot (grilled beef in betel leaves) and ha cao (steamed mushroom dumplings) topped with white truffles.

As Prague strikes into the long run, it is also taking nice care to protect its previous. In 2025, the primary museum sanctioned by the descendants of the Czech artwork nouveau artist Alphonse Mucha opened within the baroque Savarin Palace, and the Museum of Prague reopened after a five-year challenge with new digital displays. Whereas the reconstruction of Wenceslas Sq. right into a pedestrian-friendly, tree-lined area will not be absolutely full till 2027, the decrease a part of the sq. has already reopened to the general public. In 2026, the Petrin Funicular can even reopen with modern new vehicles, and St. Vitus Cathedral will welcome a brand new organ to its reconstructed choir loft, accompanied by a sequence of summer time live shows.

TPG tip: On Could 21, American Airways will revive its direct route from Philadelphia Worldwide Airport (PHL) to Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG), making it simpler to achieve Prague with factors.

— Lyndsey Matthews

Route 66

Greatest for street trippers seeking nostalgic Americana

Route 66 is revving up for a milestone anniversary in 2026, so there’s by no means been a greater time to hit the open street. Stretching almost 2,500 miles throughout eight states, America’s most storied freeway is honoring its a hundredth birthday with new points of interest, impressed exhibitions and a slate of celebrations.

In Chicago, the Obama Presidential Heart is because of open in spring, anchoring town’s historic South Aspect with a cultural campus devoted to the facility of change. Farther south, Springfield, Missouri — formally acknowledged because the birthplace of Route 66 — will host the official centennial kickoff occasion: a star-studded live performance on April 30 at Nice Southern Financial institution Enviornment.

Oklahomans are additionally getting ready for the centennial. In Tulsa, neighborhood organizers purpose to revitalize town’s stretch of Route 66 for the commemoration, attracting companies to once-empty storefronts on a quintessential American primary road. Down the street in Oklahoma Metropolis, the Nationwide Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum will host the exhibition “Route 66: From Trails to Truck Stops,” inspecting the Mom Street’s position in shaping the American West.

Throughout New Mexico, it is all in regards to the arts … and artsy motels. In Tucumcari, the brand new Artwork Metropolis sculpture park and glamping vacation spot welcomes friends to relax and calm down. Whereas on the town, you possibly can go to the Blue Swallow Motel, which served as inspiration for the animated movie “Vehicles.” In Santa Rosa, plans are in place for a brand new musical rumble strip that performs the tune “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66” for these driving eastbound on the street. And in Albuquerque, the “Route 66 Remixed” public artwork sequence will see large-scale installations and digital activations by native artists, together with the Meow Wolf collective, pop up throughout city. Keep on the new Arrive Albuquerque, which has renovated the previous Downtowner Motor Inn whereas sustaining its retro allure.

Irrespective of which a part of Route 66 you traverse, you are positive to discover a neighborhood desperate to have fun this iconic American street and the vacationers making their means alongside it.

TPG tip: Break up a street journey into smaller segments which you could full at varied occasions all year long. You possibly can even coordinate them with native occasions celebrating the centennial, such because the Texas Route 66 Competition (June 4-13) that runs by means of varied communities within the state’s panhandle, or the Route 66 UltraRun, a long-distance race spanning 140 miles of Route 66 in Arizona (Nov. 13-16). Should you’re not an ultramarathoner, contemplate the Route 66 Enjoyable Run as an alternative (Could 1-3); it is a automobile parade that travels the identical stretch.

— Stefanie Waldek

Tanzania

Greatest for thoughtfully designed safari lodges and various landscapes

From snowcapped Mount Kilimanjaro to tropical Indian Ocean islands plus a number of the finest safari experiences in Africa, there’s by no means been extra attractive choices for incomes or redeeming factors in Tanzania.

Marriott plans to greater than double its portfolio within the nation by the tip of 2027, however the 37-suite Turaco Ngorongoro Valley, a Tribute Portfolio Lodge opened final March, simply 30 miles from Ngorongoro Crater Nationwide Park, a volcanic caldera that naturally offers a fertile and guarded surroundings for uncommon black rhinos, elephants and lions. A conventional Maasai village impressed the lodge’s round buildings, pitched roofs and meandering watering hole-like pool. The modern Lemala Osonjoi Lodge additionally opened on the Ngorongoro Crater’s quieter jap rim in July with 20 suites with panoramic views of the crater.

Mapito Safari Camp, positioned subsequent to Serengeti Nationwide Park, opened in September as a part of the Autograph Assortment. With 15 tented suites that includes outside decks, fireplace pits and retractable roofs for stargazing, friends can watch wildebeests, zebras and gazelles journey alongside the Nice Migration route.

On the banks of the Nice Ruaha River in south-central Tanzania, Banyan Group’s all-villa Ubuyu, A Banyan Tree Escape will open in Could with an open-air spa and personal plunge swimming pools. The biggest protected space within the nation, Ruaha Nationwide Park, is dwelling to many species of huge cats in wholesome numbers, however receives solely a fraction of the guests Tanzania’s different parks see.

On the island of Zanzibar, greater vacationer charges and a brand new digital cost system will triple funds for marine conservation efforts. It is a small value to pay for exploring the winding streets of historic Stone City and staying at Marriott’s Le Meridien Zanzibar, which is able to open in 2026 with 75 rooms overlooking the Indian Ocean.

TPG tip: In 2026, vacationers could have loads of choices for reaching locations all through Tanzania from Europe. Air France’s new Paris- Zanzibar-Kilimanjaro route will resume subsequent summer time, as will KLM’s every day flight from Amsterdam to Kilimanjaro and on to Dar es Salaam.

Vacationers ought to be conscious that the U.S. Division of State has issued a “Degree 3: Rethink Journey” advisory for Tanzania due to unrest, crime, elevated terrorism threats and concentrating on of people who find themselves LGBTQ+. Following an election in October 2025, there was political violence in most of the nation’s cities, together with Dar es Salaam. We have spoken to tour operators, hoteliers and journey planners who’re nonetheless selling journey to Tanzania and say the safari expertise hasn’t been affected. We suggest touring on to your vacation spot, not lingering in city facilities, and reserving with respected resort manufacturers and tour operators.

— Casey Hatfield-Chiotti