Traveling in 2026: Part 1

Part 1 of 6 about traveling in 2026
by Jenny Buschauer

When Travel Ideas Usually Begin

If you’re anything like me, winter is often when the travel itch starts. A television show featuring sunny coastlines, a friend returning from a memorable trip, or conversations about a long-anticipated European or Disney vacation tend to spark new ideas.

By January, many travelers find themselves saying, “We should really travel this year,” or even looking ahead to the year after. A few destinations are researched, a few browser tabs are opened, a few ideas are set aside to revisit later.

Shifting the Focus From Cost to Experience

At this stage, the focus does not need to be on cost or logistics. This is the moment to think about what feels most exciting and meaningful for 2026. For some travelers, that might mean finally visiting a destination they have always talked about but never experienced, such as Rome, Paris, Disney World, or an Alaska cruise. These destinations capture the imagination, and when planned thoughtfully, visiting them often proves even more rewarding than expected.

What’s Driving Destination Interest for 2026

Travelers are increasingly drawn to places that offer strong connections to culture, nature, and meaningful experiences, rather than familiar resort settings, according to Condé Nast Traveler destination highlights.

In their ranking, the top global destinations gaining attention are Arusha, Tanzania, valued for its access to world-class safari experiences; Brussels, Belgium, recognized for its creative energy and cultural revival; and Panama’s Chiriquí Province, known for its castaway feel, marine reserves, eco-focused resorts, and outdoor adventure. Closer to home, Deer Valley, Utah ranks as a 4th place globally and signaling as well growing demand for destinations that combine outstanding natural settings with active, year-round experiences.

For food-focused travelers, the trends are just as telling. Nearby Boston is in the lead, recognized for its dynamic culinary scene, global influences, waterfront dining, and revitalized neighborhoods. Close behind is Crete, Greece, celebrated for its traditional produce used in innovative ways and its designation as the European Region of Gastronomy for 2026. A personal favorite of mine, Fès, Morocco, ranked 3rd globally for its rich culinary heritage, vibrant markets, and deeply rooted traditions that create an immersive cultural experience connected to food.

Together, these destinations reflect a broader shift toward travel that is purposeful, active, and deeply connected to the places themselves.

Looking Beyond the Familiar

Bringing these broader travel trends back to the personal planning process, many experienced travelers are looking beyond the familiar when thinking about 2026. This might mean exploring Aragón and the Basque Country, both renowned among food lovers, while planning a trip to coincide with a total solar eclipse later this year. It could also mean driving Route 66 in a convertible, taking in the landscapes and character along the way, and finishing the journey in Los Angeles with a FIFA World Cup match as a final highlight.

I’m seeing more travelers prioritizing experiences rooted in place and meaning, rather than simply revisiting destinations they have already checked off their list.

Why Early Conversations Matter

When planning begins early, travelers have far more room to shape an itinerary that aligns with both their interests and their budget. Early conversations work best when they balance practical cost considerations with a clear understanding of the experience being sought. With thoughtful parameters in place, budgets can often be accommodated more effectively when there is flexibility in timing, routing, and accommodation choice.

Where Do We Travel Next

Over the next six weeks, this series will look at destinations sophisticated travelers are loving for 2026, why certain places are seeing renewed interest, and how experienced planning at this stage can shape a more rewarding travel experience.

Along the way, we will explore practical strategies that help travelers maintain flexibility and understand how early, thoughtful planning can keep a wider range of destinations within reach. With a well-planned approach, many destinations can fit comfortably within a traveler’s budget.

About Jenny’s Across States & Seas Travel

I’m Jenny Buschauer, founder of Jenny’s Across States & Seas Travel. With over 15 years of experience in the travel industry and firsthand travel across more than 50 countries and 40 U.S. states, I help clients plan thoughtful, well-organized trips that reflect their budget, interests and travel style.

From historic European cities to wildlife experiences, cultural destinations and relaxed getaways closer to home, my goal is to handle the details so my clients can focus on enjoying the journey.

If you’d like to start talking about ideas for a future trip, I’d be happy to help.

Jenny Buschauer
Across States & Seas Travel
Email: jenny@stateseatravel.com
Website: www.stateseatravel.com
Phone: 203-693-1289