Every year brings new wonders to discover, but 2026 is shaping up to be a particularly extraordinary year for travellers. Whether you crave remote wilderness, ancient culture, or sun-kissed coastlines, our carefully curated list covers the full spectrum of travel fantasies.
1. The Faroe Islands, Denmark
Perched between Norway and Iceland, the Faroe Islands remain one of Europe's last truly wild frontiers. Dramatic sea cliffs, grass-roofed villages, and waterfalls that plunge directly into the ocean make this archipelago feel like something out of a Norse myth. Visit between May and September for the best light and mildest weather.
2. Bhutan – The Last Shangri-La
Bhutan measures its success not in GDP but in Gross National Happiness. The kingdom's strict tourist policies keep crowds low and landscapes immaculate. The Tiger's Nest Monastery, clinging to a sheer cliff 3,000 metres above sea level, is worth every step of the hike.
3. Svalbard, Norway – The Arctic Frontier
For those who've always dreamed of seeing polar bears in the wild or watching the midnight sun arc across an endless Arctic sky, Svalbard delivers. Summer expedition cruises now offer sustainable routes through fjords packed with walruses, reindeer and ice-sculpted landscapes.
4. Oaxaca, Mexico
Mexico's cultural heartland is having a moment. Oaxaca's mole negro, mezcal distilleries, and pre-Columbian ruins make it a feast for all the senses. The colourful Día de los Muertos celebrations in November are among the most moving spectacles in the world.
5. Kyushu, Japan
While Tokyo and Kyoto steal the headlines, Japan's southernmost main island quietly enchants the few visitors who make the detour. Onsen towns, active volcanoes, and some of Japan's finest ramen await in Kyushu, without the queues.
6. The Azores, Portugal
Nine volcanic islands dropped in the middle of the Atlantic, the Azores offer whale watching, crater lakes, hot springs and hydrangea-lined roads – all at prices that feel like a decade ago. Direct flights from North America and Europe have made access easier than ever.
7. Rwanda – Africa's Hidden Gem
Rwanda has quietly transformed into one of Africa's most forward-thinking destinations. Beyond the once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Kigali is a clean, safe and creative capital city with a thriving arts and coffee scene.
Wherever 2026 takes you, remember that the best journeys are those that change you. Pack light, stay curious, and let the world surprise you.