Where to Travel in 2026: The Top 10 Destinations Worth Planning For

Let’s be real, we all work and save our pennies for the mid year or end of year vacation. While most parents are saving for school fees, university funds or trying to invest their money as the markets drop, the majority of adults, and I’m placing heavy emphasis on Baby Boomers (50-60 year olds) and Gen Z, are using their pension money or saving all the money they can to travel around the world, and I am here for it!

As a fellow travel-aholic I have tik tok’d for countless hours, spoken to multiple travel agents, read several travel articles, and have finally been able to compile all of the wondrous places into one document…so without further ado, let’s take a look at the top 10 places you should consider for your 2026 vacation!

10. Namibia

We all know the dramatic, dreamlike Sossusvlei salt pans of the Namib Desert—they’ve had travellers in a chokehold forever, but 2026? That spotlight shifts north, where Namibia is about to become a design lover’s fantasy.

When people plan an African getaway, their minds often jump to safari giants like Kenya or South Africa. But quietly, and spectacularly, Namibia has been waiting in the wings, offering one of the most breathtaking, soul-stirring travel experiences on the continent.

First, let’s talk ease; Namibia uses the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is pegged to the South African Rand, and the Rand is widely accepted too. For many Southern African travelers, that makes budgeting and spending refreshingly simple. Add to that a reputation for safety, good roads, and well-run lodges, and you have an adventure destination that feels both wild and accessible.

But the true magic of Namibia is its landscapes, and they don’t just impress, they humble you. This is home to the Namib Desert, one of the oldest deserts in the world, where towering apricot-red dunes rise like sculptures over the surreal white Sossusvlei salt pans. It’s a place where you wake before dawn to watch the sand change color with the sun, where ancient dead camelthorn trees stand frozen in time against cracked white earth, and suddenly “once in a lifetime” doesn’t feel like an exaggeration. Then there’s Etosha National Park, where wildlife gathers around shimmering salt pans and waterholes, offering some of the best self-drive safari viewing in Africa. Elephants, lions, rhinos, giraffes… Namibia delivers the icons, but with fewer crowds and a sense of stillness that feels deeply personal.

Beyond the scenery, Namibia’s cultural richness adds another layer to the journey. From the Himba communities in the north, known for their striking red ochre adornment and deep-rooted traditions, to the German colonial influence still visible in coastal towns like Swakopmund, the country is a fascinating blend of histories and identities. It’s a place where desert landscapes meet ocean air, and where every region feels like a different world.

What truly sets Namibia apart, though, is the feeling it leaves you with. The vastness. The silence. The endless horizons that make your everyday worries feel wonderfully small. It’s not just a holiday, it’s perspective. So if your travel list is craving somewhere dramatic, soulful, and refreshingly uncrowded, it might be time to look toward the land of dunes, stars, and unforgettable skies. Namibia isn’t just a destination. It’s an experience that stays with you long after the dust has washed from your shoes.

9. The Peleponnese, Greece

If the Greek islands have already had their Mamma Mia! era, consider the Peloponnese its cinematic, myth-soaked sequel. In July 2026, Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey is set to sweep audiences off to this legendary peninsula, with scenes filmed along Messinia’s dramatic southwest coast, a landscape where Homer’s ancient tales still feel very much alive.

Base yourself at the sustainability-forward Costa Navarino, where four luxury resorts and a wave of Michelin-starred dining make exploring feel indulgent and intentional. From there, you can hike to seaside Nestor’s Cave (yes, that cave where Odysseus outsmarts the Cyclops), swim in the impossibly perfect curve of Voidokilia Beach, basically Poseidon’s private pool, and spot flamingos at Gialova Lagoon. Wander through Methoni Castle and postcard-pretty Pylos, where myth and history blur in the best way.

This is also Mycenaean country, where the roots of Western civilisation run deep. At Nestor’s Palace near Pylos, you can look out over the very landscape where a treasure-filled warrior’s tomb was uncovered in 2015, a discovery that reshaped what we know about how ancient Greek cultures intertwined. Many of these artefacts will eventually find a permanent home in Messinia’s newly revamped Archaeological Museum of Chora, making the region not just beautiful, but culturally electric.

And for those who like their holidays with a side of movement, the new Peloponnese Trails network- stretching over 1,000 miles- is turning the region into a dream for hikers. Think mountain paths, olive oil tastings, UNESCO sites like Mystras, and wellness experiences that feel straight out of an ancient Greek philosophy retreat.

History, hiking, cinematic drama, and beaches that look like they were designed by the gods themselves? The Peloponnese isn’t just calling… Like a siren, it’s singing to you, luring you in. And yes, you’re absolutely allowed to hum Dancing Queen while being lured in!

8. Udaipur, India

It’s time to live out your Bollywood moment! Let your hair down, buy a kurta and run in slow motion so your dupatta flies in the wind! Most Bollywood films are known for its famous montages of characters falling in love; often in serene backgrounds around the world, in bold coloured eastern attire, with a romantic song serenaded to each other. If you know what I’m referring to, you probably dreamt of living out a moment as such, and guess what… you actually can! In a place called Udaipur, known as India’s most romantic city!

If cities had love languages, Udaipur’s would be grand gestures. Set around a series of shimmering lakes and framed by the Aravalli Hills, this Rajasthani gem feels less like a destination and more like a film set designed for slow, beautiful living.

Often called the City of Lakes, Udaipur is all white marble palaces, intricate balconies, and sunsets that turn the water rose-gold. The magnificent City Palace rises above Lake Pichola like something out of a dream, its courtyards and mosaic details telling stories of royal legacy and craftsmanship that still shape the city’s identity.

Out on the lake, life moves gently. Boats glide past the floating Lake Palace, now one of the world’s most iconic hotels, while ghats fill with soft evening light and the distant sound of temple bells. It’s the kind of place where time loosens its grip and you suddenly don’t mind moving a little slower.

But Udaipur isn’t just about regal beauty. Its culture lives in the colour of its bazaars, the spice-laced aroma of Rajasthani kitchens, and the artistry of local craftspeople, from miniature painters to textile makers. Every alley seems to hide a rooftop café, a centuries-old haveli, or a doorway painted in the brightest blues and yellows.

There’s romance here, yes, but also rhythm, history, and warmth. Udaipur invites you to wander, to linger, to sit by the water a little longer than planned. In a world that’s always rushing forward, this is a place that reminds you how beautiful it can be to simply pause.

7. Fes, Morocco

Some cities move forward. Fes folds you back through time. Ancient, intricate, and endlessly atmospheric, Morocco’s cultural capital is less a place you visit and more a world you step into.

At the heart of it all is Fes el-Bali, one of the largest car-free urban zones on Earth, a maze of over 9,000 alleyways where donkeys still carry goods and wrong turns lead to the best discoveries. Here, life spills out of carved wooden doors and tiled courtyards, past spice stalls, copper workshops, and the scent of fresh bread drifting from hidden bakeries.

Fes is a city of craft and scholarship, home to Al Quaraouiyine, considered the world’s oldest existing university. Its legacy lives on in the medina’s artisans: leather tanners working in centuries-old dye pits, weavers at traditional looms, and zellige tile- masters shaping Morocco’s signature geometric beauty by hand.

Then there’s the colour. The famous Chouara Tannery is a patchwork of honey, saffron, and indigo vats, a scene that feels unchanged by time. Climb to a rooftop terrace at sunset and the city reveals itself in layers of minarets, satellite dishes, and golden stone glowing in the fading light. Yet for all its history, Fes is deeply alive. Cafés hum with conversation, riads offer cool, quiet courtyards behind unassuming walls, and every call to prayer rolls across the rooftops like a reminder that this city’s rhythm has endured for over a thousand years.

Fes doesn’t hand itself to you easily, you wander, you get lost, you look twice. But that’s the magic. In a world of polished itineraries, Fes is beautifully, gloriously untamed.

6. Hong Kong

Few cities do contrast quite like Hong Kong. One minute you’re staring up at glass towers that light up the harbour like a sci-fi film set, the next you’re squeezed into a decades-old dai pai dong ordering noodles for less than the price of a coffee back home. It’s fast, electric, and endlessly layered, a place where tradition and futurism share the same block.

Despite its glossy reputation, Hong Kong can be surprisingly affordable if you do it right. The city’s legendary public transport is cheap, efficient, and connects everything from buzzing markets to quiet hiking trails. Street food is not just delicious, it’s budget-friendly and deeply local, from egg waffles and roast meats to steaming bowls of wonton noodles. Even skyline views don’t have to cost a thing; a ride on the Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour is one of the city’s best experiences, and it’s still wonderfully inexpensive.

Culturally, Hong Kong is a living blend of East and West, old and new. Incense curls through historic temples tucked between skyscrapers, while traditional Chinese medicine shops sit beside sleek galleries and concept stores. In neighbourhoods like Sheung Wan and Sham Shui Po, heritage tea houses and fabric markets thrive just streets away from cutting-edge design studios and cafés.

And yes, magic is very real here. Hong Kong Disneyland delivers the perfect mix of childhood wonder and cultural flair, with rides, parades, and Disney favourites set against the city’s dramatic backdrop. It’s a reminder that Hong Kong blends the fantastical and the everyday like nowhere else. It is one of the best Disney parks in the world.

Then there's nature, the part people never expect. Beyond the skyline are lush mountains, hidden beaches, and hiking trails with views that make the city feel suspended between sea and sky. You can spend your morning on a misty ridge trail, your afternoon strolling vibrant streets, and your evening under neon lights, or waving at Mickey at Disneyland.

Hong Kong doesn’t ask you to choose between culture, food, adventure, or magic, it hands you all of it at once. Vibrant but grounded, modern yet deeply rooted, it’s a place that proves you don’t need to spend wildly to experience something extraordinary.

5. Guadalajara, Mexico

Que comiencen las festividades! (Let the festivities begin!)

Guadalajara is the kind of city that greets you with mariachi music, vibrant streets, and tequila as far as the eye can see, and in 2026, it’s about to add FIFA World Cup excitement to its long list of charms. As one of Mexico’s cultural capitals, Guadalajara pulses with colour, history, and energy, from the colonial elegance of its plazas to the murals that line every other street.

Football fans, take note: the city will be buzzing with World Cup fever, and stadiums, bars, and public squares will transform into arenas of celebration and spectacle. Even outside the tournament, Guadalajara’s rich traditions shine, artisan markets, handcrafted leather, and tequila distilleries offer experiences you can’t find anywhere else. Guadalajara’s cuisine is world-class and wallet-friendly.

From street tacos and gorditas that cost next to nothing to gourmet restaurants experimenting with modern Mexican flavours, every meal is a celebration of flavour without breaking the bank. Pair it with locally crafted tequila or mezcal, and you’re truly tasting the city’s soul.

Beyond culture, the city’s architecture and history are a feast for the senses. The neo-Gothic Guadalajara Cathedral towers over lively plazas, while nearby Tlaquepaque charms with cobblestone streets, galleries, and boutique shops perfect for souvenirs that feel meaningful, not mass-produced.

In 2026, Guadalajara isn’t just hosting games- it’s inviting the world to taste, cheer, and experience Mexico’s heart, all in one unforgettable city. Affordable, flavorful, and endlessly vibrant, it’s a destination that feels like a celebration from the moment you arrive.

4. Vietnam

Vietnam is a country that hums with life- from the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay to the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, every corner invites awe and reflection. It’s a place where history, culture, and everyday life exist in a delicate, vibrant balance, reminding us to slow down and truly notice the world around us.

The highlights are unforgettable: cruise along the Mekong Delta, wander Hanoi’s Old Quarter, and lose yourself in Sapa’s terraced rice fields. But the magic really comes when you live like a local- cycling through morning markets, joining a family for a bowl of pho, or learning the gentle rhythms of life in a rural village. Vietnam quietly teaches humility, patience, and an appreciation for the land, where every harvest, river, and sunrise is deeply revered.

“To understand everything is to forgive everything,” a philosophy woven into the country’s temples, pagodas, and daily practices. Every monk, artisan, and street vendor seems to embody it, showing travellers that life isn’t just about rushing forward, but about noticing, respecting, and valuing what we have.

Vietnam isn’t just a destination, it’s a lesson in living gently, moving mindfully, and embracing the beauty of our shared Earth. From vibrant cities to serene countryside, every journey here is a reminder that the world is bigger than us, but also intimately connected to our hearts.

3. Turkey

If Turkey hasn’t been on your travel list for weeks, months or years, why are you kidding yourself?

Turkey is a country that wears its soul on its streets. From Istanbul’s bustling bazaars to the surreal fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, it’s a place where history, culture, and spirituality are woven into daily life, and where every sip of strong Turkish tea or swirl of a shisha pipe feels like a ritual of connection.

Affordability is part of its charm. Street-side simit, fresh pide, or a strong cup of tea won’t break the bank, yet you’re still experiencing centuries of tradition and craftsmanship. And for those chasing awe, the architecture alone is mesmerizing: from the soaring domes of the Blue Mosque to the intricate tilework of Topkapi Palace, every building is a testament to artistry and devotion. Religious symbolism runs deep, from calligraphy-filled mosques to the everyday presence of the Hand of Fatima and the evil eye, reminders of protection, faith, and intention in even the smallest moments.

Beyond Istanbul, places like Ephesus, Pamukkale, and Bodrum showcase Turkey’s diversity- ancient ruins, natural thermal terraces, and coastal charm all in one. In Cappadocia, you can float over valleys dotted with cave dwellings and whimsical rock formations, while the warmth of small-town markets invites you to interact, barter, and live like a local for a moment.

Turkey is a tapestry of cultural richness, affordability, and ritual, where every corner tells a story and every tradition reminds you to slow down and savour life. From tea-stained mornings to lantern-lit nights, it’s a country that leaves a mark not just on your camera roll, but on your heart.

2. Japan

Japan is a country that feels effortlessly curated- every street, every meal, every temple radiates respect, precision, and beauty. From the neon-lit buzz of Tokyo to the tranquil gardens of Kyoto, it’s a place where cleanliness, courtesy, and order are not just values, but a lifestyle you can step into and immediately admire.

Foodies will be in heaven. Sushi breakfasts, steaming bowls of ramen, matcha desserts, and wagashi sweets are everywhere, affordable and often exquisite. For South African travellers, Japan is more accessible than you might think- from street food stalls to mid-range ryokans, you can eat, explore, and stay in style without emptying your wallet.

Shopping is an adventure of its own: quirky anime collectibles, hand-crafted souvenirs, high-tech gadgets, and fashion districts where style runs wild. And speaking of stays, Japan’s hotels- from minimalist urban capsules to serene, Japanese-styled ryokans with tatami floors and hot spring baths, make every night a calm, luxurious experience.

Then there’s the charm factor. Adorable anime characters appear everywhere, from themed cafés to collectible trinkets, adding a whimsical, joyful layer to the country’s cultural sophistication. Every corner offers a story, a visual feast, or a moment of mindful calm.

Japan is more than a destination, it’s a lesson in respect, flavour, beauty, and balance. Whether it’s tasting a delicate dessert, strolling under cherry blossoms, or exploring a bustling market, this is a country that lingers in your memory long after you leave. With culture, cuisine, cuteness, and convenience, Japan deserves to be at the top of every traveller’s list.

1. Thailand

Sawadeeka! I say this completely unbiasedly, albeit I was just there in December-January, but with confidence I can confirm that this should be your number one travel destination of 2026. Thailand, specifically Bangkok, is a hidden treasure. Thanks to all the action films, we had a misconstrued idea about what Bangkok is like, but it’s Thailand’s capital for a reason… Whilst the entirety of Thailand is filled with nature that will bring you the grounding you needed all year, serenity that fills your soul, and food that nourishes your body, Bangkok is a city that never sleeps, is surrounded with good energy (even though the traffic is just chaos), and sights you will certainly not want to miss!

Move over Bali–Thailand is back, and it’s claiming the crown as 2026’s prime holiday destination. Affordable, resourceful, and endlessly vibrant, this is a country that delivers incredible experiences for every type of traveller. From bustling Bangkok streets to serene islands in the south, Thailand feels effortless yet endlessly memorable.

Food is front and centre– think mango sticky rice, the world’s most perfect Pad Thai, and street stalls serving up fresh, high-quality dishes that make every meal a highlight. Shopping ranges from floating markets to night bazaars and sleek malls, where you can haggle, discover quirky souvenirs, or simply soak in the buzz. And yes, the metro is a game-changer, clean, efficient, and hands down the easiest way to navigate the city, because nothing says Thailand like surviving the traffic chaos in style.

Beyond the cities, Thailand is a feast for the senses– rice fields, jungle trails, and breathtaking islands await, with turquoise waters and soft sands that feel like paradise made real.

Clean streets, kind-hearted locals, and an energy that is equal parts exciting and welcoming make every day unforgettable. And if you ever need a lifeline between adventures, remember: 7-Eleven is basically sacred here, stocked with everything from snacks to life-saving essentials, and maybe even a cold coconut drink to sip while planning your next stop.

Thailand isn’t just a holiday, it’s a full-on sensory, cultural, and emotional experience. Affordable, accessible, delicious, and endlessly beautiful, it’s no wonder the Land of Smiles is taking 2026 by storm. One trip and you’ll understand why no other destination quite compares.

Choosing a holiday destination is about more than pretty photos and passport stamps, it’s about asking yourself what kind of experience will actually stay with you. The most meaningful journeys aren’t always the most expensive or the most advertised; they’re the ones rooted in culture, connection, and everyday life. Places where traditions are still lived, not staged. Where meals are shared, not marketed. Where you come home with perspective, not just shopping bags.

Travel can be a quiet rebellion against the rush of consumerism. Instead of luxury for the sake of it, you choose stories, history, and human moments. You wander local markets, learn a few words in another language, sit in spaces that hold spiritual or cultural weight, and begin to understand lives shaped by different rhythms and values. Those are the trips that gently shift something inside you, that teach humility, gratitude, and a deeper respect for the world and its people.

And the beautiful part? You don’t have to break the bank to travel this way. Some of the richest experiences come from destinations where affordability allows you to slow down, stay longer, and engage more deeply. Where your money supports local communities instead of global chains. Where the return on investment isn’t luxury; it’s growth.

In the end, the best holiday isn’t just an escape. It’s an education of the heart.