2026 Destinations Look Book
As we begin to close the chapter on 2025 and look ahead to 2026, I always find myself reflecting on the year of travel behind us. The trips that surprised us, the places we finally checked off our list, the destinations we postponed, and the ones that are still quietly calling our name.
There are 365 fresh days ahead to decide where PTO officially starts, and this lookbook is here to help you dream it up. These are destinations that feel aspirational, intentional, and absolutely worth planning for, some I’ve personally experienced, others firmly on my own 2026 itinerary.
Costa Rica
Adventure, nature, and balance…Costa Rica delivers it all. This Central American gem is perfect whether you’re planning a long weekend or an extended escape. Spend your days trekking through jungle landscapes, hiking near volcanoes, crossing hanging bridges, or simply slowing down on the beach.
Surf the Pacific Coast, lean into the Caribbean influence on the eastern shores of Limón Province, or explore highlights like Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio and Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges. Costa Rica effortlessly blends adrenaline and ease, making it ideal for travelers who want both exploration and restoration. It’s a destination that works just as beautifully for adventure seekers as it does for beach lovers, and everyone in between.
Iceland
2026 is a big year for Iceland. It marks the final peak year to experience the Northern Lights at their brightest before the next solar cycle, meaning if the Aurora Borealis is on your bucket list, now is the time.
Beyond the lights, Iceland is endlessly dynamic. Visit in winter for glacier hikes, ice caves, and snow‑covered landscapes, or travel in the warmer months for dramatic waterfalls, coastal cliffs, and puffin sightings.
From snowmobiling across glaciers to whale watching, geothermal spas, and yes, even visiting iconic Game of Thrones filming locations, Iceland feels like multiple countries wrapped into one. It’s raw, otherworldly, and unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Tanzania
Few destinations offer contrasts quite like Tanzania, where safari meets the sea. This is the place where childhood dreams come to life. Picture spotting lions, elephants, and giraffes roaming freely in their natural habitat, then trading dusty savannas for turquoise waters just days later.
Begin in vibrant Dar es Salaam, where local markets, creative spaces, and authentic cuisine offer a true sense of place. From there, head into one of Tanzania’s renowned national parks in search of the Big Five. And finally, take a short flight to Zanzibar, where white‑sand beaches and the warm Indian Ocean invite you to slow down and savor. Tanzania isn’t just a trip, it’s a full‑spectrum experience that stays with you long after you return home.
Greece
If you couldn’t make it to the best island in the world (according to Travel + Leisure) in 2025, consider this your sign; 2026 is your year. Greece is so much more than Santorini and Mykonos. From Paros’ effortlessly chic villages to Milos’ moon‑like landscapes, and the jaw‑dropping monasteries of Meteora on the mainland, this country rewards travelers who go beyond the obvious.
Extend your stay in Athens and unwind along the Athens Riviera, or commit to a full week exploring Crete, the largest Greek island and one of the most diverse destinations in Europe. Beaches, mountains, food, history… Crete alone could fill multiple trips. Greece is the kind of place that hooks you on the first visit and has you planning your return before you’ve even left.
Morocco
Morocco is a destination that awakens all the senses. From the bustling souks of Marrakesh, filled with vibrant spices, intricate textiles, and hidden riads, to the calming ritual of a traditional hammam, every moment feels layered with history and intention.
Wander the blue‑washed streets of Chefchaouen, explore the cultural heart of Fes and its centuries‑old tanneries, then journey into the Sahara Desert by camel. Spend the night under a sky full of stars, surrounded by silence you didn’t know you needed. Morocco invites you to slow down, stay curious, and immerse yourself deeply in its culture, traditions, and storytelling.
Switzerland
Switzerland feels like stepping straight into a fairytale, no matter the season. Whether you’re chasing après‑ski energy or summer alpine adventures, this country does both flawlessly. From the polished charm of Zurich to Interlaken’s dramatic mountain scenery, skiing in Zermatt, or wandering storybook streets in Grindelwald, Switzerland offers variety without compromise.
The train system makes travel effortless, with most major destinations reachable within just a few hours—each journey offering postcard‑worthy views along the way. Lucerne and Bern are especially magical, perfect for slow strolls and old‑town wandering.
Even if skiing isn’t your thing, Switzerland delivers with paragliding, hiking, lake days, spa experiences, and of course, world‑class chocolate and cheese. And if your itinerary allows, quick side trips to Milan, Lyon, or Strasbourg add even more depth. There’s truly no wrong time to visit Switzerland.
Whether 2026 has you island‑hopping in Greece, spotting the Big Five on safari, trekking glaciers in Iceland, roaming the desert by camel, or sipping wine beneath the Swiss Alps, the world is wide open. And if you’re ready to turn inspiration into a thoughtfully planned itinerary, I’m here to help you make it seamless, elevated, and unforgettable.
Let’s start planning where your PTO takes you next.
Want to learn more about a trip to Tanzania this summer? Click Here!
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