The 2026 Travel Report: Destinations and Plans for the Insider Set's Vacations This Year

      What will travel be like in 2026? For the upcoming year, the general sentiment will shift from simply checking off destinations on a bucket list to selecting experiences that feel intentional, immersive, and visually pleasing. This could involve staying in a repurposed building now functioning as a unique hotel, enjoying a countryside farmstay, or indulging on one of the increasingly inviting yachts. The key themes influencing our travel choices this year stem from a desire to foster a deeper connection to the places we visit. Savvy travelers are no longer focused on capturing the ideal Instagram photo, but rather on creating enduring memories. As a fashion editor with expertise in travel, I monitor trends in lifestyle closely (often as part of my job) and have investigated where stylish travelers are currently vacationing and where industry experts predict future trends will emerge. Based on my research and the 2026 forecasts from platforms like Fora and Virtuoso, six significant trends are shaping travel this year. Below, you'll find the travel trends that are defining our packing lists and the reasons behind them.

      **Set-Jetting**

      Watching a TV series is one thing, but experiencing the locations that inspired the stories is another. This year, travel associated with film and television is anticipated to flourish as the destinations showcased in popular titles aim to provide audiences with real-life experiences connected to their favorite narratives. Thailand is at the forefront of this movement, showcasing the stunning backdrops featured in The White Lotus season 3, Disney+’s Alien: Earth, and Star Wars: Episode III, filmed in places like Bangkok, Krabi, and Phang Nga Bay. Additionally, Virtuoso's 2026 Luxe Report highlights that K-dramas and the KPop Demon Hunters are attracting fans to South Korea, while Cornwall’s rugged coastline and fishing villages in the UK, featured in House of the Dragon and Poldark, are enticing visitors to immerse themselves in the stories. Advisors note, "TikTok, Instagram Reels, and word of mouth all ignite curiosity, but film and TV are amongst the most powerful catalysts for adventure."

      **Past Lives**

      In 2026, the appeal of historic hotels will be stronger than ever, with a focus on thoughtfully renovated spaces that turn well-known buildings into stylish accommodations steeped in history. Examples include the tranquil charm of Hôtel du Couvent in the South of France, where ancient convent hallways guide guests to sunlit terraces, and the industrial-minimalist vibe of Nine Orchard in Manhattan, a former print shop transformed into a trendy gathering spot. Similarly, the newly opened Rosewood Amsterdam is situated in a former courthouse, and Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula is home to Hotel Sevilla, built atop ancient ruins. Another favorite is Hotel Peter and Paul, housed in a converted school and church complex in New Orleans.

      **At Sea**

      Yachts are expected to transition from a luxury reserved for the elite to a more accessible travel trend, as travelers seek tailored experiences and cruises receive lavish enhancements. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is at the forefront, introducing vessels that resemble floating private clubs rather than traditional cruise ships. Egypt is also emerging as a popular destination, drawing interest for private Nile cruises showcased in our feeds this year. Beyond Ritz-Carlton, cruise providers are expanding their luxury offerings to meet growing demand. "New ships on the adults-only Virgin Voyages are equipped with sleek solo studios just like the brand's other offerings," reports Fora. "Riviera Travel has multiple solo-only river cruises and just announced the first-ever river cruise ship exclusively for solo travelers, with voyages in Europe starting in 2027."

      **Fan Voyage**

      2026 is shaping up to be a great time for sports enthusiasts, highlighted by the upcoming Winter Olympics in Northern Italy and the FIFA World Cup taking place in Canada, the U.S., and Mexico this summer. The fashion industry is also increasingly engaging with Formula One, with LVMH serving as a title sponsor, and more brands associating with tennis events like the French Open and US Open. Overall, sports fandom is rapidly becoming a major influence on travel, with Expedia noting that references to "local sports experiences" have doubled year over year and that 57% of travelers are likely to attend a local sporting event while traveling—especially among Gen Z and millennials, who represent 68%. The report indicates a clear trend: travelers are seeking sports experiences that provide a direct connection to local communities.

      **Farm Charm**

      The Farm Charm trend is drawing travelers towards seasonal, nature-based experiences. Those wanting to disconnect and embrace traditional wellness practices (literally getting back to nature) are seeking luxury rural getaways that combine rustic charm with sophistication. Properties like Wildflower Farms in the Auberge Collection offer expansive fields that set the stage for rejuvenating stays just a short trip north of NYC. In Portugal, São Lourenço do Barrocal mixes traditional Alentejo farming with modern comforts across olive groves and rolling hills. Meanwhile, Reschio and various farmstays in