When it comes to the best places to travel, 2026 is less about opulence and more about originality — places that blend culture, beauty, and authenticity. That's according to an exclusive new list of trending destinations by luxury travel experts at OvationNetwork.
“The desire for meaningful travel has never been stronger,” says Zane Bohrer, vice president of OvationNetwork. “As we look ahead to 2026, our luxury travel advisors are seeing remarkable interest in destinations that balance discovery with distinction."
Bohrer says clients are gravitating toward places like Nikko and Versailles, which offer rich cultural and historical experiences just steps away from city life. Others are venturing far off the beaten path to Antarctica or the wild coasts of Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Exotic locales such as Kona, Hawaii, and Marrakech, Morocco, also rank highly on the list for their mix of authenticity, sophistication, and immersive experiences.
OvationNetwork shared its exclusive list with Forbes. Here are the six best places to travel in 2026.
Why visit? A few hours north of Tokyo, Nikko is a tranquil mountain retreat known for its sacred forests, waterfalls, temples, and hot springs. This UNESCO World Heritage area embodies Japan’s balance of spirituality and natural beauty, revealing the country’s quieter, more contemplative side. The ancient pilgrimage routes once traveled by monks and samurai invite a slower exploration, rich with Edo-period architecture and seasonal splendor. "The area transforms with each season and especially stands out in the fall with its vibrant foliage," says Ashley Diamond, a travel advisor with OvationNetwork.
Who should go? Ideal for culture seekers, spiritual explorers, and nature lovers looking for authentic experiences off the tourist trail.
Don’t miss: Visit the ornate Toshogu Shrine, a masterpiece of Edo-era craftsmanship adorned with gold leaf and intricate carvings. It’s the resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, Japan’s first shogun—and unlike any other shrine in Japan because of its ornate detail and history.
Why visit? "Hawaii is having a spotlight moment," says Andrew Steinberg, an OvationNetwork travel advisor. On Hawaii’s Big Island, Kona captures both the timeless allure and renewed energy that make the islands irresistible. With its cinematic beaches, volcanic terrain, and pristine waters, this coastline offers endless opportunities — from sunrise paddles and manta ray night dives to ziplining and deep-sea fishing. Post–“White Lotus,” Kona has become a symbol of modern Hawaiian luxury that remains deeply tied to its roots, offering both authenticity and indulgence against a backdrop of 300 days of sunshine a year.
Who should go? Everyone—from active families and adventure seekers to couples and wellness travelers who crave the full Hawaiian experience.
Don’t miss: Begin with a sunrise swim, sample fresh poke at Da Poke Shack, and finish with a moonlit manta ray snorkel.
Why visit? Just 25 minutes from central Paris, Versailles is more than its stately palace—it’s a destination where royal history meets modern charm. Spending a night or two here transforms the experience, allowing travelers to explore beyond the famous Hall of Mirrors. The town itself is lined with antique markets, cafés, gardens, and cycling paths that offer a glimpse of French life away from the crowds. "Exploring Versailles is a real treasure," says Jill Levy, a travel advisor with OvationNetwork.
Who should go? Francophiles, history enthusiasts, and those seeking to slow down, savor French cuisine, and immerse themselves in an elegant countryside retreat.
Don’t miss: A stay at Airelles Château de Versailles, a 14-room luxury hotel with private access to the palace gardens. Guests can book exclusive after-hours tours of the King’s or Queen’s Apartments—rarely open to the public—for an unforgettable moment of serenity in the Hall of Mirrors.
Why visit? Guanacaste embodies Costa Rica’s “pura vida” philosophy, where adventure and relaxation coexist effortlessly. This region pairs surf towns and yoga enclaves with luxury eco-resorts and volcanic landscapes. Whether ziplining through tropical canopies, chasing waterfalls, or spotting howler monkeys at sunset, it’s an adventure drenched in sunshine and natural wonder. New sustainable luxury retreats such as Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, are redefining barefoot luxury in harmony with the environment. "Costa Rica is a destination that feels both adventurous and soulful," says Sylvia Lebovitch, an OvationNetwork travel advisor.
Who should go? Active adventurers, surfers, yogis, and eco-conscious travelers who value wellness for both people and the planet.
Don’t miss: Sail along the Pacific coast on a sunset catamaran from Tamarindo, and immerse yourself in the region’s easygoing rhythm—the “pura vida” lifestyle that defines Costa Rica.
Why visit? No destination on Earth compares to the raw, untouched grandeur of Antarctica. Vast glaciers, blue icebergs, and colonies of penguins create a landscape that feels almost extraterrestrial. Here, wildlife reigns supreme—penguins, whales, and seals wander freely, largely unbothered by human presence. Each step on the icy terrain unveils a vast sense of perspective and awe. "Nothing compares to the otherworldly feeling of those first footsteps onto Antarctica," says Andrew Harrison, a travel advisor with OvationNetwork.
Who should go? Bucket-list travelers and adventurers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime immersion into Earth’s last true wilderness. It’s ideal for those who crave remoteness, majesty, and a complete disconnection from the modern world.
Don’t miss: The voyage across the Drake Passage, a legendary journey of endurance and wonder. For travelers who prefer a smoother path, flights to King George Island offer a direct route to the continent without the “Drake Shake” — the massive waves that sometimes leave passengers hopelessly seasick. Ovation Network's advisors note that expedition cruises are increasingly emphasizing low-impact travel, helping preserve this fragile ecosystem.
Why visit? Marrakech, known as the Red City, continues to captivate with its fusion of Old World beauty and contemporary creativity. From intricate riads, or traditional homes, to avant-garde galleries, it’s a city that lives and breathes artistry. Wander through the lively markets, unwind in a hammam, or lose yourself in the fragrance of orange blossoms inside the Jardin Majorelle. Marrakech invites travelers to engage with its rhythm—a sensory tapestry woven from Arab, Berber, and French influences. "Marrakech is a city that awakens the senses," says Eli Vinitsky, a travel advisor with OvationNetwork.
Who should go? Design lovers, cultural explorers, foodies, and travelers who seek immersive, intellectual, and sensory adventures.
Don’t miss: Evenings in Jemaa el-Fnaa, where street performers, storytellers, and sizzling tagines turn the square into an open-air theater. Visit the Yves Saint Laurent Museum for design inspiration, then escape to a riad courtyard for mint tea under the stars.
OvationNetwork’s list reflects a subtle change in luxury travel. It’s no longer about chasing prestige, but about pursuing presence. From the temples of Nikko to the markets of Marrakech, travelers are searching for connection — to place, to people, and to purpose. Whether it’s the stillness of Antarctica or the warmth of Guanacaste, the best journeys next year will be the ones that make you feel more grounded in a fast-moving world.