TOP 5 PLACES TO TRAVEL TO IN 2026
From dramatic wilderness and ancient cities to vibrant capitals and coastal escapes, the world is filled with destinations that offer rich culture, striking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re drawn to remote natural beauty, historic streets shaped by centuries of tradition, or places where modern life thrives alongside the past, these five destinations showcase the diversity of global travel. Each offers its own distinct atmosphere, inviting travellers to explore, connect, and experience the world from a fresh perspective.
Northern Chilean Patagonia
Photo by Cesar Cruz Bravo
Northern Chilean Patagonia is a region defined by scale and solitude, where vast landscapes stretch from jagged mountain ranges to glacial lakes and windswept plains. It is home to some of South America’s most dramatic scenery, including Torres del Paine National Park, where granite peaks rise sharply above turquoise waters and expansive ice fields. This remote corner of Chile appeals to travellers drawn to nature at its most powerful, offering hiking, wildlife spotting, and unforgettable views at every turn.
Beyond its visual impact, the region represents a growing commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism. Small lodges, protected areas, and low-impact travel experiences allow visitors to explore responsibly while preserving the fragile ecosystems. Whether trekking through remote valleys or navigating fjords by boat, Northern Chilean Patagonia offers a deep connection to the natural world that feels both humbling and energising.
Mexico City
Photo by Daniel Lerman
Mexico City is a dynamic capital where ancient history and modern life exist side by side. Built on the ruins of the Aztec city of Tenochtitlán, it is rich in archaeological sites, grand plazas, and historic architecture, while also being a hub for contemporary art, fashion, and design. Neighbourhoods such as Roma and Condesa are renowned for their leafy streets, galleries, and cafés, providing a relaxed contrast to the city’s bustling centre.
The city’s cultural offerings are vast, featuring world-class museums, lively markets, and an ever-evolving food scene that reflects regional traditions from across Mexico. Parks like Chapultepec provide green space in the heart of the city, while festivals and public events ensure there is always something happening. Mexico City rewards visitors who enjoy exploration, creativity, and a strong sense of place.
Cádiz, Spain
Photo by Pedro Lozano
Cádiz sits on Spain’s Atlantic coast and is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Western Europe. Surrounded almost entirely by water, the city has a distinctive character shaped by centuries of maritime history. Its historic centre is filled with narrow streets, watchtowers, and sunlit squares, while long sandy beaches stretch out just beyond the old city walls.
Life in Cádiz moves at a relaxed pace, shaped by ocean views, fresh air, and strong local traditions. The city is famous for its humour, music, and carnival culture, which bring colour and energy throughout the year. With its blend of history, coastal scenery, and everyday authenticity, Cádiz appeals to travellers seeking culture without crowds and a strong sense of local identity.
Gabon
Photo by JEaLiFe Pictures
Gabon is one of Africa’s most unspoilt destinations, with over 80 per cent of the country covered by rainforest. Its network of national parks protects a remarkable range of wildlife, including forest elephants, gorillas, chimpanzees, and nesting sea turtles. In places such as Loango National Park, it is possible to see elephants walking along beaches, a rare sight that highlights Gabon’s unique landscapes.
Cultural life in Gabon is shaped by more than 40 ethnic groups, each with its own traditions, music, and crafts. Outside the capital, Libreville, rural communities offer insight into long-established ways of life closely connected to nature. For travellers interested in conservation, biodiversity, and meaningful travel experiences, Gabon offers something genuinely distinctive.
Fes, Morocco
Photo by Aleks
Fes is one of Morocco’s most historic and culturally rich cities, best known for its ancient medina, Fes el-Bali. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a maze of narrow streets filled with markets, workshops, mosques, and madrasas that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. The city is widely regarded as the spiritual and intellectual heart of Morocco, with a strong emphasis on tradition and craftsmanship.
Artisans in Fes continue to practise skills passed down through generations, from leatherwork and ceramics to metalwork and textiles. Beyond the medina, the city also offers quieter residential areas, gardens, and panoramic viewpoints. Fes is ideal for travellers who enjoy immersive cultural experiences and places where history is woven into everyday life.