Travel’s Next Big Wave: 10 Destinations Set to Soar in 2026

Beginner | November 6, 2025

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Why These Places Are Set to Shine in 2026

Travel analysts and platforms have identified a new set of destinations expected to be the most‐in‐demand in 2026. According to a feature by Expedia, for example, trips to places such as Big Sky (Montana) in the U.S. saw a 92 % increase in searches compared with 2024 — signalling their rising star status. (news.com.au)

Key themes emerging: travellers are seeking experiences over ticking boxes, favouring authenticity, smaller or less-crowded destinations, and sustainable travel models. For instance, a report lists destinations that combine art, nature, and culture in new ways — such as Upper Carniola in Slovenia with its new museum opening in 2026. (cntraveler.com)

Top Trends Driving These Tourism Shifts

Meaningful Experiences Over Mass Travel

Travel planners say people are choosing destinations where they can “live like a local” vs. simply sight-seeing. The emphasis is shifting from what you visit to how you visit. (breakingtravelnews.com)

Off-Radar Gems with Ease of Access

Some of the destinations predicted to rise are lesser known but well-connected. Big Sky’s surge is due in part to accessible flights and infrastructure investments. (news.com.au)

Sustainability and Purposeful Travel

Many upcoming “hot” destinations are emphasising local impact, conservation, and cultural heritage rather than solely profit. Communities and travelers alike are stressing ethical tourism. (cntraveler.com)

What This Means for Busy Professionals and Learners

As you prepare for travel—whether for business or pleasure—keeping these trends in mind can help you stand out. Consider destinations that:

Serve as both work & leisure venues (bleisure) because they’re emerging and fresh.
Offer unique backdrops for networking or informal meetings (less crowded, more memorable).
Allow you to share travel stories that reflect thoughtfulness, cultural learning and global awareness.

Vocabulary

Emerging (adjective) – becoming prominent or important.
- Example: “Emerging destinations like Upper Carniola are drawing more travellers.”
Infrastructure (noun) – the basic physical systems of a place (roads, airports, utilities).
- Example: “Improved airport infrastructure helps smaller destinations grow.”
Bleisure (noun) – travel that combines business and leisure.
- Example: “Busy professionals increasingly favour bleisure trips.”
Authenticity (noun) – the quality of being genuine or original.
- Example: “Travellers now crave authenticity in their experiences.”
Crowd-pleasing (adjective) – likely to please many people; accessible.
- Example: “Popular tourist spots are becoming less appealing than unique escapes.”
Conservation (noun) – the protection and careful management of the environment and culture.
- Example: “Conservation-driven resorts are increasingly valued.”
Surge (verb) – to increase suddenly and powerfully.
- Example: “Search interest for Big Sky surged in 2025.”
Trend (noun) – a general direction in which something is developing.
- Example: “The trend is shifting toward lesser-known destinations.”
Legacy (noun) – something handed down from the past.
- Example: “These destinations often emphasise cultural legacy over mass tourism.”
Connector (noun) – someone or something that brings things together.
- Example: “Air routes act as connectors between major cities and emerging destinations.”

Discussion Questions (About the Article)

Which upcoming destination surprised you the most and why?
How might travel preferences for 2026 affect business trips or work-related travel for you?
What makes an “off-radar” destination appealing compared to a famous one?
Do you think sustainability should be a priority when choosing travel locations? Why or why not?
How can you use your next travel experience to reflect professional growth or networking?

Discussion Questions (About the Topic)

In your region (Korea or Taiwan), how might these travel trends influence corporate travel policies?
What role does travel play in building your professional brand?
Would you rather travel to a well-known hotspot or an emerging destination? Why?
How can learning about global travel trends help you in business English conversations?
What personal criteria will you use when choosing your next travel destination in 2026?

Related Idiom

“Ahead of the curve” – being more advanced or prepared than others.
Example: “By choosing one of 2026’s rising destinations, you’ll be ahead of the curve in travel planning.”

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This article was inspired by: Yahoo Lifestyle (yahoo.com)