Highlighting Culture Traveler’s influence in industry conversations shaping the future of travel

A meaningful moment for Culture Traveler and its continued presence in industry-wide conversations, Founder Kareem George is featured among leading travel experts in the article “Experts Predict the Popular Travel Destinations of 2026.” Quoted for his insights on Cairo, Egypt, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Kareem brings a perspective rooted in cultural depth, historical relevance, and intentional exploration. His inclusion underscores Culture Traveler’s role not only in curating journeys, but in helping define where and how travelers will engage with the world in the years ahead.

The article that follows highlights the destinations experts believe will shape travel in 2026 and the thoughtful voices guiding that vision.

Experts Predict The Popular Travel Destinations Of 2026

From Guatemala to Norway to the Albanian Riviera, here's where tourists will be heading next year.

Written By: Caroline Bologna

Year after year, U.S. travelers have flocked to destinations like Paris, Cancún and Rome for their hard-earned vacations. And while these spots are popular for good reason, there are also many other emerging places set to draw more tourists in the future.

With that in mind, we asked experts in the travel space to predict next year’s trending travel destinations. Keep scrolling for 25 countries, cities, islands and other locales to inspire your next vacation.

Barbados

"Barbados, and the Caribbean in general, is often stereotyped as quiet, scenic, resort-only travel, but I think Barbados in particular will break out of that box in a bigger way by 2026 as an adventure-forward and sustainability-minded destination," said Gabby Beckford, a travel expert and founder of Packs Light.

She pointed to Barbados' strong food scene, with a nice farm-to-table culture, culinary events and many globally recognized Bajan chefs.

"I don’t know how, but the country mixes food, wildlife, surf, hiking, cultural history, and emphasizes responsible tourism," Beckford said. "I expect to see more people intentionally getting off property and engaging with Barbados as a full cultural destination."

The Albanian Riviera

"Albania feels like one of Europe’s last true hidden gems, but I think 2026 is when that really changes," said travel blogger Esther Susag. "The Albanian Riviera has the same clear blue water and dramatic coastline you see in places like Greece or Croatia, but it’s much more affordable and far less crowded."

As travelers become more mindful about costs and crowds, she believes Albania offers a sweet spot of beautiful scenery, interesting culture and under-the-radar status.

Kazakhstan

“Kazakhstan is fast becoming one of Central Asia’s most exciting frontiers, where vast steppes, soaring peaks and surreal deserts take center stage," said luxury travel expert and boutique consultancy founder Sarah Casewit. "With expanding tourism infrastructure, visa-free entry for many travelers, and growing sustainable initiatives from Katon-Karagay to Mangystau, the country is stepping into the spotlight as a leading eco-adventure destination for 2026."

She pointed to the airline discussions around adding new routes between Almaty, Kazakhstan, and big international cities like Tokyo, New York and Hong Kong.

"Almaty has grown more upscale and hip in recent years, which is drawing young travelers to Central Asia’s second largest city," said travel expert and author La Carmina. "My friends have been raving about the buzzing nightlife, chic boutiques and coffee shops, and restaurants with modern spins on Kazakh cuisine. Almaty remains affordable, and tourists have yet to flood its parks and tree-lined streets beneath the dramatic Tian Shan mountains."

Norway

“Norway, and Scandinavia more generally, has been rising in popularity of late and will continue to do so as it delivers unparalleled natural beauty paired with sleek, sustainable hospitality," Casewit said.

She highlighted the new hotels and travel experiences that continue to be launched in the country.

"In 2026, we are also seeing the peak of Solar Cycle 25, which will bring the strongest aurora borealis that we’ve seen in a decade," Casewit added.

Guatemala

Annette Richmond, creator of Fat Girls Traveling, has Guatemala high on her list of travel destinations for 2026 after visiting this year.

"There is an incredible farm-to-table food culture there that can be embraced through immersive experiences like cooking classes, art therapy, and even medicinal healing," she said. "I’m finalizing a luxury wellness-focused group adventure to Antigua and Lake Atitlán that will include a chocolate workshop, a Garifuna cooking class, a weaving demonstration and a medicinal plant workshop with local midwives."

Cát Bà Island, Vietnam

"Cát Bà National Park in Vietnam is emerging as [a] standout destination for 2026, based on searches on our platform," said Jean-Gabriel Duveau, vice president of brand and strategic partnerships at GetYourGuide.

He offered one big reason for the appeal: the birds.

"The thriving birdlife is drawing travelers who want restorative trips immersed in nature, a trend that’s accelerated as birdwatching has moved firmly into the cultural mainstream," Duveau said.

Cairo, Egypt

"Now that the Grand Egyptian Museum has 'officially' and fully opened, Cairo will likely rise to the top of many travelers' lists," said Kareem George, a travel adviser and founder of Culture Traveler. "I personally had been waiting to return to Egypt until the opening and visited this fall. What an incredible facility and collection!"

He also touted the St. Regis Hotel as a great accommodations option for luxury travelers looking to visit the Egyptian capital.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

"With our approaching semiquincentennial, I anticipate the United States to be a very popular travel destination in 2026," George said.

Although cities like Boston and Washington, D.C., naturally draw tourists around such occasions, he believes Philadelphia will also get a spotlight thanks to its "historical and political significance, world-class museums and iconic tourist attractions."

Malta

"I think that Malta will become more popular in 2026," said Amina Dearmon, a luxury travel adviser and owner of Perspectives Travel.

She noted that the journey to Malta is about to get easier for U.S. travelers, thanks to Delta's new nonstop flight from JFK.

"There are new hotel builds that are anticipated to open in 2026, and for the past few years, Malta has been promoting itself as a tourist destination," Dearmon said. "I believe that the combination of the flights, new hotels and the tourism boards’ effort to [educate] more people about the destination will lead to increased popularity."

Bosnia and Herzegovina

"I see Bosnia and Herzegovina, especially Mostar and Sarajevo, becoming a trendy destination in 2026," said travel blogger Sean Lau. "Mostar is incredibly cinematic with the Stari Most Old Bridge arching over turquoise water, narrow stone alleys, and locals diving from the bridge as they’ve done for generations. It has the beauty of the Adriatic region without the crowds or price tag."

Meanwhile, Sarajevo impresses in a different way, he added.

"It’s one of the few European cities where you can stand in an Ottoman bazaar, look up at Austro-Hungarian facades and still feel the rhythm of daily life," Lau said. "The mix of cafes, markets, and mountain views gives it an unexpected warmth that travelers crave right now. As the starting point of World War I, this city is packed with history as well."

Aomori and Iwate, Japan

"I’ve been miffed by the over-tourism in Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto," La Carmina said, pointing to skyrocketing hotel prices and stressful crowds. "I predict more travelers like me will escape a few hours north to peaceful Aomori and Iwate, which are on the northernmost tip of Honshu Island and across the water from Hokkaido."

She described these prefectures as a pleasant throwback to the 1990s Japan experience, where she can experience traditional culture, food and chill activities like apple picking without encountering bustling crowds of foreigners.

"Every August, Aomori has a jaw-dropping neputa festival for giant paper floats illuminated with kabuki and samurai art — which you can see year-round in Hirosaki’s Neputa Village," La Carmina added. "In Iwate, I love to glide through Geibikei gorge in a flat boat steered by an oarsman, shop for shimmering lacquerware at Tekiseisha, and count how many bowls of wanko soba I can eat at Azumaya. The mountains also have some of Japan’s best ski slopes and outdoor onsen bathing at ANA Intercontinental Appi Kogen.”

La Paz, Bolivia

Travel blogger Isabel Leong sees the city of La Paz, which is the seat of government in Bolivia, as a rising destination for 2026.

"Bolivia is still under the radar, but La Paz is one of the most unique cities in South America," Leong said. "More adventurous travelers will seek it out for its hiking, landscapes and raw cultural experiences — especially those wanting something less polished than Peru."

Greenland

Even amid a time of unexpected political headlines, Greenland’s appeal as a remote bucket-list destination shows no signs of cooling. George believes the destination is poised for even greater interest in 2026.

"Greenland continues to trend as a destination and is now highlighted on the itineraries of several expedition cruises," he said. "Moreover, lying in the path of totality, I anticipate the Aug. 12, 2026, solar eclipse will bring even more attention and visitors to this country."

Oaxaca, Mexico

"Oaxaca is one destination I see becoming even more popular by 2026," Leong said.

She praised the way the Mexican state's culture is deeply woven into everyday life.

"It’s not staged or packaged for tourists," Leong noted. "From local markets like Mercado Benito Juárez to annual celebrations like Día de los Muertos, you can feel how traditions are still lived, not just displayed."

North Wales

Desertman; inspiring images Egypt and Gower via Getty Images

Wales has never been short on natural beauty, and Duveau says North Wales is increasingly appealing to travelers seeking quieter, more intentional experiences.

"Mount Snowdon in Wales is gaining attention for 2026 as sunrise hikes offer travelers a desired meaningful experience without the crowds," he explained. "Reaching the summit as the first light rises on the valley feels personal in a way that daytime visits often can’t match.”

Morocco

“Morocco will continue to rise as one of the world’s most compelling destinations in 2026," Casewit predicted. "A new wave of hotels — including the king’s own Royal Mansour — dotting the map from Tangier down to the south are defining a new surge of luxury hospitality."

She also highlighted hospitality investments in beachfront resorts, boutique accommodations and lifestyle properties that expand the options for how tourists can experience Morocco.

"It’s also easier to get to," Casewit said, pointing to new flight options from United Airlines and Royal Air Maroc. "Morocco is more accessible from the U.S. than ever before. Morocco is poised to define travel in 2026.”

Colombia

"Medellín has been transforming itself over the past decade, and by 2026, it’ll be one of Latin America’s most compelling destinations," Leong said. "What stands out to me is how tourism here actively supports the local community."

Susag similarly predicts Colombia's popularity will continue to grow next year.

"But I think travelers are starting to look past the most well-known cities," she said. "Regions like the Coffee Triangle and coastal towns along the Pacific offer incredible scenery and cultural experiences with fewer crowds. It’s a great option for travelers who want adventure, great food, and value all in one trip."

Jaipur, India

“Jaipur is capturing the attention of travelers looking for a mix of royal heritage, vibrant culture and colorful streets that are straight out of a storybook," said Lourdes Losada, director of Americas at Skyscanner. "U.S. travelers are increasingly drawn to destinations where every corner offers a photo-worthy moment and immersive experience."

The so-called "Pink City" offers travelers "a visual feast," she added, touting the ornate palaces and forts, bustling markets and traditional Rajasthani performances. The mix of authentic local culture and comfortable hotels is also a plus.

“Jaipur’s growing accessibility and upgraded infrastructure make it easier than ever for U.S. visitors to explore its heritage sites, enjoy curated cultural experiences and discover luxury stays without compromising authenticity," Losada said.

Limón, Costa Rica

“Limón is catching the eye of travelers who are ready to say goodbye to San José and Guanacaste in favor of fewer crowds and authentic experiences," Losada said. "For decades, travelers have been obsessed with Costa Rica’s Pacific coastline, but since travelers are turning their attention to smaller, lesser-known locations, this is where Limón comes into play.”

The port city offers easy access to lovely national parks and beach towns that aren't in every travel guide.

"Expect to find sounds and flavors of Afro-Caribbean culture and far less crowded beaches laden with palm trees for your own slice of paradise," Losada said. "Limón is more of a port city than a proper beach locale, though it does serve as an excellent gateway to check out the coast for sun, sand, and one of the most popular activities, given the clear water conditions, snorkeling.”

Kyrgyzstan

"This year I saw a huge increase in adventurous travelers going to Kyrgyzstan, and I think it will become even more mainstream in 2026," Beckford said. "While it is still relatively remote, it is very safe, incredibly scenic and offers true bucket-list experiences."

Thus, she thinks Kyrgyzstan is becoming a hot spot for travelers looking to venture off the beaten path.

"Think alpine trekking, horseback riding, yurt stays, and access to nomadic culture that feels increasingly rare elsewhere," Beckford said.

Cyprus

The island country of Cyprus is another destination that Leong sees getting a boost in popularity in the near future.

"Cyprus is quietly becoming a wellness and slow-travel hub, especially for Europeans," she said. "With its mix of beaches, mountains, yoga retreats, and history, I can see it attracting travelers who want warmth, affordability, and depth without the crowds of Greece or Italy."

Istanbul, Turkey

"Istanbul has always been a popular destination, however with the new airport and more international links than ever, this city is even more front and center," George said.

He praised the city's cultural attractions, cuisine and shopping in addition to its accessible location.

Georgia

"Georgia is getting more attention, but I still think it feels under-appreciated for how much it offers," Susag said. "It has incredible food, wine culture that dates back thousands of years, dramatic mountain scenery, and cities like Tbilisi that feel creative and energetic."

This country is also more affordable than other destinations, particularly as you move further west into Europe.

"That makes it especially appealing as travelers look for unique destinations that don’t feel overly touristed yet," Susag added.

China

"China is already a major global travel hub, but despite welcoming tens of millions of international visitors annually, I find American travelers are hesitant to visit due to past visa complexity and outdated perceptions," Beckford said. "But recently China has expanded its visa-free access, including a five-day visa-free transit program for travelers from countries like the U.S."

Having spent nearly a month exploring China herself, Beckford believes it offers an efficient, safe and diverse travel experience.

"I 100% expect China to emerge more strongly for bucket-list birthday trips, luxury shopping travel, honeymoon itineraries, and multi-city cultural explorations," she said.

Bali

Bali has long been a popular tourist destination, but Duveau believes travelers are increasingly looking beyond its most familiar hot spots.

“Mount Batur in Bali is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for 2026," he said. "Its sunrise ascent gives travelers a rare sense of stillness above the clouds, and we’re seeing travelers increasingly build their itineraries around early morning activities that make them feel more connected to a place.”

A Voice Shaping What’s Next: Kareem George Featured Among Experts Predicting Travel in 2026