As the travel industry looks toward 2026, one clear global trend stands out: travellers are trading predictable itineraries for immersive, meaningful experiences that connect them with place, culture and community.

Data from Expedia’s Unpack ’26 report and wider global surveys show a dramatic rise in interest for “farm charm” retreats, heritage conversions and multi-hotel “hops,” all rooted in a desire for slower, more sustainable travel.

Slowing Down: Farm Charm, Heritage Hotels and Hotel-Hopping

Rural hospitality and historical authenticity are defining the global mood for 2026. Farm stays and restored heritage properties – called “Farm Charm” and “Salvaged Stays” – are booming worldwide. According to Expedia data, mentions of farm stays have grown by more than 300 percent year-on-year, while interest in staying at reimagined historical buildings continues to surge. Travellers are no longer content with a hotel room; they want a story, a setting and a sense of belonging.

The “Hotel Hop” trend also continues to expand, especially among Millennials and Gen Z travellers. More than half now plan to stay at multiple hotels within a single trip to experience different neighborhoods or architectural styles. From Tuscany to Tasmania, the emphasis is on exploring one destination in layers – sampling the diversity of local culture, cuisine and design rather than racing through a checklist of landmarks.

Emerging Hotspots and the Rise of Set-Jetting

While the style of travel is changing, so too are the destinations drawing attention. Expedia’s 2026 Destinations of the Year – Beyond the Crowds highlights ten emerging global favorites showing strong year-on-year growth in searches and bookings:

• Big Sky, Montana, U.S. (+92%) – wide-open wilderness, luxury lodges and sustainable outdoor tourism.
• Okinawa, Japan (+71%) – island serenity blending beaches, coral reefs and Ryukyuan culture.
• Sardinia, Italy (+63%) – Mediterranean coastlines with new focus on agritourism and slow food.
• Phu Quoc, Vietnam (+53%) – tropical island escape balancing eco-resorts and cultural roots.
• Savoie, France (+51%) – Alpine landscapes and mountain gastronomy beyond the ski season.
• Fort Walton Beach, Florida, U.S. (+45%) – quieter Gulf Coast alternative to overcrowded resort areas.
• Ucluelet, Canada (+44%) – Pacific Northwest wilderness and marine-life experiences.
• Cotswolds, U.K. (+39%) – heritage villages, farm retreats and countryside cycling trails.
• San Miguel de Allende, Mexico (+30%) – artistic haven with boutique hotels and restored haciendas.
• Hobart, Australia (+25%) – creative island city merging art, nature and culinary innovation.

In parallel, “Set-Jetting” – travel inspired by movies and television – has grown into a mainstream motivator for global audiences. More than 80 percent of Gen Z and Millennial travellers now admit that screen locations influence their travel choices. From the Aegean islands featured in blockbuster films to rugged Nordic landscapes seen in popular streaming series, cinematic travel is shaping destination dreams worldwide.

Sustainability remains the common thread tying these shifts together. Expedia’s Smart Travel Health Check framework evaluates how destinations manage community engagement and environmental responsibility, rewarding places that balance tourism growth with local well-being. In 2026, this dual focus on curiosity and conscience defines the traveller’s mindset.

From working farms in Australia to renovated monasteries in Europe, and from emerging island escapes in Asia to creative mountain towns in North America, the new travel era is guided by authenticity and care. As global tourism continues to evolve, 2026 promises journeys that go beyond the crowds – and deeper into the world.

National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions has unveiled its 2027–28 season of voyages, combining adventure, science, and culture across all seven continents. The new lineup features nine fresh itineraries alongside returning guest favorites, reflecting the company’s mission to connect travelers with the planet’s most remote and remarkable destinations.

Azores to Barcelona: A Special Solar Eclipse Voyage

The headline itinerary of the 2027–28 season is “Azores to Barcelona: A Special Solar Eclipse Voyage.” This two-week journey aboard the National Geographic Orion will coincide with the total solar eclipse of August 2027, giving travelers the chance to witness the phenomenon from the deck of a ship in the Strait of Gibraltar.

The voyage blends celestial spectacle and cultural exploration, featuring a private visit to the Alhambra in Granada, tours of Tangier and Malaga, and on-board lectures by astronomers, naturalists, and National Geographic photographers.

Baffin Island: Exploring Canada’s Wild Arctic Frontier

This newly introduced Arctic voyage takes guests deep into one of the world’s most pristine wilderness regions. Sailing aboard the National Geographic Resolution, travelers will explore the rugged coastlines of Baffin Island, where glaciers, fjords, and polar bears define the landscape.

Zodiac excursions, hiking, and kayaking opportunities are led by scientists and Arctic experts, giving guests insight into the region’s unique ecology and indigenous heritage.

Fabled Lands of the North: Greenland to Newfoundland

Revived from Lindblad’s 2024 season, this 16-day journey navigates from Nuuk, Greenland, to Newfoundland, Canada. Passengers aboard the National Geographic Explorer will follow in the footsteps of early explorers, traversing ice fields and remote settlements.

With onboard archaeologists and naturalists, guests can experience the Arctic’s near-perfect light and the cultural blend of Inuit and Norse influences that define this storied route.

Exploring Patagonia’s National Parks from Punta Arenas to Puerto Montt

One of the brand’s most beloved itineraries, this 17-day expedition reveals the wild beauty of southern Chile. Sailing on the National Geographic Resolution, travelers will journey from the fjords of Torres del Paine National Park to the volcanic landscapes of Chiloe Island. Highlights include special access to the Karukinka Reserve, kayaking among glaciers, and guided hikes through some of Patagonia’s most remote national parks.

Fiji and Tahiti Adventure: Vibrant Reefs and Cultural History

Returning by popular demand, this South Pacific itinerary immerses guests in island traditions, coral reef ecosystems, and oceanic exploration. Travelers will sail between Fiji and Tahiti, discovering unspoiled lagoons, attending local ceremonies, and snorkeling alongside marine biologists studying vibrant reef habitats.

European Voyages: Atlantic Horizons and Continental Crossroads

Expanding its European presence, National Geographic-Lindblad introduces several new routes across the continent’s western and southern coasts. “Spain, Portugal and Morocco: Atlantic Horizons” and “Continental Crossroads: Spain, Morocco and the Canary Islands” bring guests to a mix of iconic cities and hidden gems, while “Porto, Bordeaux and Bergen: Wonders of Western Europe” showcases the continent’s cultural and culinary diversity. These itineraries aboard the National Geographic Orion and Endurance highlight both history and modern maritime life.

Across all expeditions, guests will be guided by a multidisciplinary team of naturalists, historians, scientists, and National Geographic Experts. Each voyage emphasizes sustainability, education, and meaningful connection with the environment.

From the Arctic’s ice-bound wilderness to the tropical coral seas of the Pacific, the 2027–28 season reaffirms National Geographic-Lindblad’s role as a leader in responsible adventure travel – one that continues to inspire curiosity and conservation around the globe.

As global travel continues to expand into 2026, safety remains a top priority for international travellers. The newest rankings from Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection reveal which destinations combine security, infrastructure, and hospitality to offer travellers the most peace of mind.

Drawing on surveys, international safety indices and traveller feedback, the report highlights both countries and cities where visitors can feel confident exploring.

Top 15 Safest Countries

1. Netherlands
2. Australia
3. Austria
4. Iceland
5. Canada
6. New Zealand
7. United Arab Emirates
8. Switzerland
9. Japan
10. Ireland
11. Belgium
12. Portugal
13. France
14. United Kingdom
15. Denmark

The Netherlands takes the number-one spot for 2026, a remarkable rise from previous years. It earned high marks for personal security, healthcare quality, and transportation safety. Australia and Austria round out the top three thanks to strong infrastructure, stable governance, and consistent rankings for female and LGBTQ+ traveller safety.

Iceland and Canada maintain their longstanding reputations for welcoming, low-crime environments, while New Zealand and the UAE are increasingly recognized for their visitor-friendly policies and focus on security.

European destinations dominate the list, with France, Portugal and the UK maintaining solid mid-tier placements, reflecting confidence in their resilience, emergency response, and tourism management. Denmark closes the list with strong social trust indicators and low reported incidents affecting international travellers.

Top 15 Safest Cities

1. Reykjavik
2. Copenhagen
3. Zurich
4. Amsterdam
5. Honolulu
6. Sydney
7. Barcelona
8. Lisbon
9. Tokyo
10. Dublin
11. Venice
12. Seoul
13. London
14. Singapore
15. San Francisco

At the city level, Reykjavik continues to hold the top spot for its combination of low crime rates, community trust, and overall stability. Copenhagen and Zurich complete the top three, recognized for effective policing, reliable transport, and transparent governance. Amsterdam joins the group as a model of safe, sustainable tourism management.

Further down the list, cities like Honolulu and Sydney represent strong performers in the Asia-Pacific region, praised for safety, cleanliness, and hospitality. European cities – including Barcelona, Lisbon, and Venice – illustrate how urban centres can balance heavy tourism with proactive safety policies. Tokyo, Seoul, and Singapore continue to lead in Asia, supported by efficient infrastructure and cultural respect for order and responsibility.

Understanding the Rankings

These results go far beyond simple crime statistics. The report considers factors such as health preparedness, disaster response, gender inclusivity, and access to emergency services. Countries and cities that invest in sustainability, education, and transparency consistently perform better in safety surveys.

The 2026 findings also highlight how safety perception evolves alongside global travel trends. Destinations that maintain strong community ties, manage tourism impacts, and communicate clearly with visitors tend to inspire long-term confidence.

For travellers, the lists of safest countries and cities provide more than reassurance – they outline a blueprint for smart, responsible exploration. Whether planning an urban break in Reykjavik or a countryside escape in the Netherlands, these destinations prove that safety and adventure can coexist beautifully.

Dubai-based carrier flydubai is set to transform its Economy Class experience by introducing complimentary meals and full in-flight entertainment access for all passengers, beginning in November 2025.

The move marks a shift away from the low-cost model that has defined the airline since its founding and reflects a broader strategy to improve passenger experience across its growing network. The change aligns with flydubai’s ongoing expansion and its goal of redefining value travel in the region.

Complimentary Dining for Every Passenger

Under the new system, all Economy Class tickets – regardless of fare type – will include complimentary hot or light meals with beverages. The menus are being developed to reflect the airline’s extensive network, offering dishes inspired by destinations across Africa, Europe, South Asia, and the Middle East. Passengers on longer flights can expect full hot meals, while shorter routes will feature lighter options, maintaining consistency and quality across all services.

The change eliminates previous fare distinctions that determined whether meals were included, ensuring every passenger enjoys the same onboard experience. According to company representatives, the decision was guided by passenger feedback and a growing expectation among travelers for inclusive, full-service offerings. By simplifying meal policies and improving consistency, flydubai hopes to enhance customer satisfaction while maintaining competitive pricing.

Upgraded In-Flight Entertainment Experience

Alongside the new meal service, flydubai is expanding its entertainment platform across its Boeing 737 fleet. Economy passengers will now have free access to more than 1,000 movies, 700 music albums, television programs, podcasts, and interactive games, either through seat-back screens or personal devices. The system will feature multiple languages and genres, catering to the airline’s diverse global audience.

The airline’s leadership has emphasized that these improvements represent a “significant evolution” in flydubai’s approach to service. The move also reflects broader changes in the aviation industry, as hybrid and low-cost carriers adopt more premium features to meet passenger expectations. With the inclusion of meals and entertainment in the base fare, flydubai positions itself closer to full-service airlines while retaining its flexible pricing model.

These updates come as the carrier continues to expand its fleet and route network, now serving more than 135 destinations worldwide. The new policy aims to offer passengers greater comfort, simplify the booking process, and deliver a consistent experience across short- and medium-haul routes. As the rollout begins in November 2025, travelers can look forward to a more refined and inclusive Economy Class journey – one designed to make even budget travel feel premium.

Ennismore, the lifestyle division of Accor, has announced expansion of its Delano brand into two of the world’s most prominent cities, with upcoming properties in New York and London. These developments coincide with a planned reopening of Delano Miami Beach in early 2026, signaling a strategic push to re-establish Delano as a global luxury lifestyle hotel brand.

In New York, the Delano property will arise from a conversion of the current Dominick Hotel in SoHo, rebranded as Delano SoHo New York. With approximately 391 guestrooms and suites, the hotel will include substantial event and meeting space and aims to position itself as a cultural and social hub in Hudson Square, near SoHo’s galleries, boutiques, and dining scene. The conversion follows the acquisition of The Dominick by Cain, which will reposition the property under the Delano ethos.

Across the Atlantic, Delano London will be a new build or conversion near Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. The London property is slated to feature 67 guest rooms and suites, an on-site restaurant curated by Ennismore’s F&B Platform, and a Rose Bar inspired by the iconic Miami original. Ennismore describes the design as a blend of minimalism and warmth, creating a modern yet contextually rich luxury experience. The opening is expected in late 2026.

Meanwhile, the original Delano Miami Beach is scheduled to reopen in early 2026 following a comprehensive renovation that marries its historic Art Deco roots with contemporary design. The restored property will offer 171 guestrooms, four dining and bar concepts, and a revived version of the famed Rose Bar, reasserting Delano’s foundational identity in its birthplace.

These moves build on Delano’s recent entrance into key markets such as Paris and Dubai, indicating a broader strategy of repositioning the brand as a global icon of artful hospitality. The expansion is backed by Ennismore’s partnership with investment firm Cain, which acquired a minority stake in Delano in 2024, and by the appointment of Ben Pundole as Chief Brand Officer to guide the brand’s growth and cultural relevance.

The growth of Delano aligns with rising traveler demand for experiential, design-driven stays that combine local character with elevated amenities. Today’s hotel market increasingly rewards brands that can deliver personality, authenticity, and a sense of place. By entering New York and London with strong brand identity, Delano aims to compete with established lifestyle names in both cities.

With construction and conversion already underway, Delano’s global revival is unfolding in real time. The transition of The Dominick, the London build, and the Miami restoration will each bear close watching as benchmarks of how a heritage brand can evolve in the modern luxury landscape.

Marriott International’s Edition brand has launched The Red Sea Edition, a new resort on Shura Island that marks the first hotel to open on the island and the second Edition property in Saudi Arabia, following Jeddah Edition. The opening represents a key milestone within the Red Sea Project, a large-scale tourism development designed to position the country as a leading destination for sustainable luxury travel.

Set along half a mile of private beachfront, The Red Sea Edition offers 240 rooms, including 53 suites with views of the Red Sea and the island’s Shura Links golf course. The design features natural materials, soft lighting, and textures inspired by the surrounding desert and sea. Guests can enjoy multiple dining venues, a full-service spa, modern fitness facilities, and 10,700 square feet of event space, including a ballroom accommodating up to 500 guests.

Shura Island, connected to the Saudi coastline by a two-mile bridge, serves as the main hub of the Red Sea Project. The Red Sea Edition is the first of eleven hotels planned for the island, with upcoming openings from SLS and InterContinental, followed by brands such as Fairmont, Four Seasons, Jumeirah, and Rosewood. The property’s opening aligns with Red Sea Global’s broader vision of creating 50 hotels and over 1,000 residences across 22 islands and six inland locations by 2030.

The resort’s architecture emphasizes a close connection to the environment. Its minimalist structures incorporate stone, oak, and rammed earth, while open-air spaces blur the line between indoor and outdoor living. The Red Sea Edition operates entirely on solar power, reinforcing its alignment with Saudi Arabia’s push for regenerative, low-impact tourism.

The Red Sea Project also includes a dedicated international airport that opened in 2023, improving access to the growing luxury region. The development is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the economy and promote the kingdom as a global tourism hub.

With its understated elegance and focus on sustainability, The Red Sea Edition sets the tone for a new chapter in the country’s hospitality sector. As more resorts join the island in the coming years, this flagship property is expected to serve as a model for balancing innovation, design, and environmental stewardship in one of the world’s most ambitious tourism projects.

According to Skyscanner’s newly released 2026 Travel Trends Report, next year will redefine the way people explore the world. With new low-cost carriers expanding routes to destinations like Italy, Bangkok, Paris, Reykjavik, and Scotland, travel is becoming more accessible than ever. The report notes that 55% of travelers now say flight cost is the single most important factor when choosing a destination, making 2026 the year of the cheap flight.

The data also highlights the top trending destinations for the year ahead. Limon in Costa Rica, Jaipur in India, and Bodrum in Turkey are among the fastest-growing spots, while São Paulo, Singapore, and Venice are emerging as top choices for affordable international trips. But beyond destinations and prices, Skyscanner’s report shows that travelers’ habits and motivations are evolving, giving rise to several key trends shaping 2026.

Glowmads: Beauty and Wellness on the Go

Self-care meets travel in 2026. Driven largely by Gen Z, the Glowmad trend is about blending skincare and wellness with exploration. Thirty-two percent of younger travelers plan to seek beauty treatments or visit skincare destinations while abroad. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have made skincare a travel inspiration, with beauty hotspots such as Seoul and Tokyo at the top of the list. Whether it’s documenting in-flight skincare routines or hunting down cult beauty brands, travelers are making wellness part of the journey.

Shelf Discovery: Supermarkets as the New Culinary Frontier

Forget fine dining – 2026 is about supermarket safaris. Skyscanner found that 55% of U.S. travelers often visit local grocery stores abroad, turning everyday shopping into a cultural experience. From vending machines in Tokyo to Iceland’s famous geothermal-baked bread, travelers are embracing local flavors in unexpected ways. Culinary tourism is now less about Michelin stars and more about discovering the snacks and staples that locals actually eat.

Catch Flights & Feelings: Romance Meets Adventure

As social and dating norms shift, travel is becoming a way to connect. More than half of travelers (53%) have gone or considered going overseas to meet matches or make new friends. For many, travel now represents an opportunity for meaningful connection rather than just sightseeing. Meeting locals, sharing experiences, and building new friendships are at the heart of this emotional travel movement that blends discovery with human connection.

Bookbound: Literary Escapes Around the World

The Bookbound trend takes inspiration straight from the pages of novels. Thanks to the growing influence of online communities like BookTok, travelers are now booking trips inspired by their favorite stories. Skyscanner reports that 55% of travelers have booked or would consider a trip based on literature, while hotel searches using the “library” filter are up 70% year over year. From reading retreats to exploring settings from classic fiction, books are becoming roadmaps for real-world journeys.

Altitude Shift: The Rise of Mountain Escapes

In 2026, travelers are heading for higher ground – literally. Eighty percent of respondents say they are considering or planning a mountain vacation for the summer or fall. The appeal lies in peace, clean air, and stunning scenery. Whether hiking in the Dolomites, exploring the Canadian Rockies, or unwinding in New Zealand, travelers are seeking out mountain destinations for wellness and escape from crowded tourist hubs.

Destination Check-In: Hotels as the Main Attraction

Hotels are no longer just a place to sleep – they’re the reason to travel. Skyscanner found that 56% of travelers have chosen a destination purely based on accommodation, with the figure climbing to 70% among Millennials. Unique properties, from remote lodges to design-focused resorts, are redefining how people choose where to go. Travelers are now building entire trips around the experience of staying somewhere extraordinary.

From budget flights to book-inspired adventures, the 2026 travel landscape is defined by creativity, connection, and self-expression. Whether exploring mountain peaks, discovering local snacks, or chasing new friendships abroad, travelers next year are shaping a global movement that blends affordability with authenticity.

The Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest has been awarded two Michelin Keys as part of the 2025 global Michelin Key selection, marking it as one of the world’s most exceptional hotels. This prestigious distinction, introduced by the Michelin Guide in 2024, recognizes properties that offer an outstanding stay – hotels that are destinations in themselves, defined by excellence, authenticity, and a deep sense of place.

Originally completed in 1906, Gresham Palace is a jewel of Art Nouveau architecture overlooking the Danube. After an extensive restoration by Four Seasons, the hotel now represents a seamless blend of Hungarian craftsmanship and modern luxury. It features 179 elegant rooms and suites, the acclaimed KOLLÁZS Brasserie & Bar, the sophisticated MÚZSA bar, a tranquil spa, and panoramic views of the Chain Bridge and Buda Castle.

Julia Selyukova, General Manager of Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest, described the honor as a reflection of both heritage and hospitality. “We are deeply honoured to receive two Michelin Keys,” she said. “This distinction celebrates not only our iconic setting but also the passion and dedication of our team, who create unforgettable experiences for every guest. It is a privilege to see our commitment to excellence recognised on a global stage.”

The Michelin Key distinction is awarded based on several universal criteria, including excellence in architecture and interior design, consistency in service, the individuality of the establishment, value for money, and contribution to the local community. According to Michelin’s inspectors, Gresham Palace “embodies the grandeur of Budapest’s Art Nouveau heritage, offering guests a refined experience that blends cultural authenticity with contemporary luxury.”

This achievement also underscores the growing importance of the Michelin Key program, which continues to redefine global hospitality standards. We previously covered this development in our article about the Michelin Guide’s new global hotel rating system, which highlights properties that transform a simple stay into a memorable journey. The introduction of Michelin Keys has quickly become a benchmark for excellence, influencing how travelers discover and evaluate luxury accommodations around the world.

For Budapest, this recognition reinforces its status as one of Europe’s most sophisticated and culturally rich destinations. The Hungarian capital continues to gain international acclaim for its thriving hospitality scene, where historic architecture meets world-class service. The inclusion of Gresham Palace in the Michelin Guide’s latest selection cements its role as a symbol of elegance and a cornerstone of Budapest’s luxury travel offering.

Standing proudly in the heart of the city, the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace remains a living work of art – its stained-glass windows, mosaics, and ironwork capturing the spirit of the early 20th century while embracing the demands of modern luxury. With its two Michelin Keys, the hotel not only celebrates its past but also defines the future of refined hospitality in Hungary and beyond.