We don’t know about you, but 2025 turned us every which way but loose, so we’re looking forward to a new year filled with less stress and more escapes. The year 2026 brings the opportunity for new must-sees and unique adventures in travel that are sure to bring us joy, spark our curiosity, and make us excited to live life to the fullest.
So, where should you be jetting off to next?
Travelers should be focusing their jaunts on places and moments that bring a familiar comfort, new intrigue, togetherness and unapologetic luxury. With that in mind, we’ve curated a list of must-visit locations (with hotels to match!) that highlight old favorites celebrating big milestones, destinations on the rise that offer the perfect mix of culture and magnificence, viral hotspots and memorable adventures that don’t involve a passport at all.
And trust us, all of them are worth the trip.
Gabon
If any country on the continent is going to have its time in the sun next year, it’s going to be Gabon. The Central African nation is poised to emerge as Africa’s most incredible nature destination. While its tourism efforts are still a work in progress, Gabon is is putting the industry on notice with the openings of Loango Savannah Camp and Sette Cama Eco Camp. Both are located within Loango National Park, known as “Africa’s Last Eden,” which is brimming with pristine forests, lagoons, gorilla trekking and coastal trails perfect for spotting the country’s surfing hippos. Not the safari type? No worries, insiders like Karma Bridges, daughter of rap star Ludacris, have shared a full guide detailing how to make the best of your visit.
Saudi Arabia
For decades, travel to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was unheard of, especially for Americans. However, the country has recently taken monumental steps to change that and revamp its global image. Breathtaking regions like AlUla have already shown up on the feeds of influencers, and celebrities like Cardi B are flocking to the capital city of Riyadh for show-stopping performances and an introduction to the culture. In 2026, Dream of the Desert, Saudi Arabia’s first ever ultra luxury train, will take travelers on immersive experiences throughout the country. Those looking to get their Beyoncé on at an F1 race can head to the cosmopolitan city of Jeddah for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, where the Jeddah EDITION overlooks the race track. Looking for wellness? Saudi Arabia’s got that too with the opening of Miraval The Red Sea, the brand’s first international location.
Scotland
The year 2025 saw Americans hilariously “discovering” our Black Scottish cousins on TikTok, and now in 2026, it’s time for the family reunion. Locals like Torgi Squire, aka Scottish Sterling Brown, musician Panashe and lifestyle influencer Ruth have been sharing glimpses into Black Scottish life, taking their American family along as they go to the Highlands in Northern Scotland for staycations at the Loch Ness Country House Hotel, paintballing with Delta Force in Glasgow and to grab Nigerian eats at Uwagboe’s Kitchen & Grill in Edinburgh.
South Africa
A year-round destination, South Africa is always on the list of places to go for Black travelers looking for the perfect mix of culture, nature and luxury. In 2026, visiting will be even more special as the country’s largest and most popular park, Kruger National Park, turns 100. Make the Steyn City Hotel by Saxon your home base in Johannesburg, and enjoy an 18-hole championship Nicklaus design golf course, padel courts, a high-end gallery and a rejuvenating day at the Saxon Spa (Pro Tip: Get the Signature Luxury Soul package) before taking a trip to Kruger for two days of Big 5 spotting. Once you return, spend the day soaking up the creative energy of the city at Victoria Yards and 44 Stanley before ending the night with people watching, wine, and a good meal at Saint Restaurant.
Route 66
The iconic Route 66 Highway turns 100 in 2026. Grab a few girlfriends and follow the newly installed historic signs as you set out on an epic road trip adventure that will take you from the urban streets of Chicago, Illinois, to the picturesque views of the Santa Monica Pier in California. Along the way, stop at the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, then soak up Black history at the Threatt Filling Station (a vital sanctuary during Jim Crow and a shelter during the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre) before grabbing a soulful bite at Wanda J’s, a staple in Tulsa, Oklahoma since 1974. You can also grab pictures for the ‘gram at the Cadillac Ranch art installation in Amarillo, Texas.
Boston
The New England city doesn’t usually end up on many travel wishlists, but as one of the host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, that’s about to change. Check into the Four Seasons Hotel, One Dalton Street, located within walking distance of must-see tourist spots like Fenway Park and cultural institutions such as the Museum of Fine Arts. Surround yourself with community and enjoy comfort food inspired by the African diaspora at Comfort Kitchen or indulge in the city’s best seafood at Row 34. Need to escape the city for a bit? You can always catch the ferry and live out your Forever dreams with a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard.
Canada
Our neighbors to the north are perfect for food and wine lovers looking for a long weekend getaway. Prince Edward Country is home to peaceful vineyards like Traynor, Closson Chase and Hinterland Wine Company that accommodate groups, children, and even dogs. Grab a delicious locally sourced meal at Stella’s Eatery or a tinga tostada and zero-proof maple pecan daiquiri at La Condesa. Looking to relax in laidback luxury surrounded by serene views? Be sure to book a cabin at Wander Resort and disconnect from it all.