1. Tokyo, Japan – Tradition Meets Innovation
Tokyo is the perfect mix of ultra-modern city life and centuries-old traditions. Shibuya’s neon-lit streets pulse with the city’s energy, while Shinjuku Gyoen unfolds with expansive gardens and shaded walkways, with calm spaces that contrast with the surrounding cityscape. The historic Asakusa district preserves traditional shrines and festival spaces, and Odaiba holds contemporary art and digital exhibitions. In spring, Tokyo’s famous cherry blossoms frame the city parks and riverbanks. Michelin-starred sushi and tucked-away izakayas combine the sophistication of high-end sushi counters with the approachable, everyday flavors of neighborhood dining.
Why 2026 – Favorable exchange rates and expanded direct flights from North America make 2026 an attractive year for Tokyo. The city’s growth in technology-focused museums, exhibition spaces, and curated cultural tours allows new ways to experience its traditional and modern elements together.
Travel Tips – Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and standout seasonal moments like cherry blossoms. Add a day trip Nikko or Kamakura for historic temples set among dramatic natural landscapes.
Discover Japan on Finest Journeys tour of Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto and Osaka
2. Seoul, South Korea – A Hub for Beauty and Tradition
Seoul has been gaining attention among travelers, especially those drawn to wellness, beauty, historic sites, and the new K-pop culture. The city blends a deep sense of tradition with modern urban life. Hanok villages in Bukchon preserve centuries-old wooden architecture, showing a glimpse of Korea’s royal past and traditional residential life. Nearby, street food markets in Myeongdong overflow with flavors from tteokbokki to hotteok, reflecting the city’s street culture. Historical landmarks such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Folk Museum, and the Korean War Memorial show Seoul’s layered history, while contemporary districts feature boutique shops and beauty studios present the latest in K-beauty innovations. Cafés, art galleries, and performance spaces are interwoven with historic neighborhoods, where modern trends and tradition coexist seamlessly.
Why 2026 – Wellness tourism and experiential travel are booming, and set to increase for 2026. Travelers are increasingly attracted to authentic cultural experiences, wellness-focused itineraries, and the city’s cutting-edge K-pop culture.
Travel Tips – Visit the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), the historic border zone between South Korea and North Korea, or venture into the scenic Korean mountains for a balanced experience of city and nature.
Find inspiration in Finest Journeys tours in South Korea :
- South Korean Romance relax and enjoy Seoul and Jeju-Si
- A Taste of South Korea eat your way around Seoul, Jeonju, Gwangju, Gwangyang and Busan
- South Korea with the Family fun for every age in Seoul
- Discover South Korea touring Seoul, Gyeongju and Busan
3. Terceira, Azores, Portugal – An Atlantic Island Escape
Terceira is one of the Azores’ most distinctive islands, known for volcanic landscapes, lush crater lakes, geothermal hot springs, and character-filled towns. Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands out with its colorful architecture, cobbled streets, and long maritime history.
The island’s natural viewpoints, lava tubes, and dramatic coastline offer something memorable for travelers seeking nature, culture, and slower-paced island life. Direct flights now operate from USA and Canada with Azores Airlines, United and British Airways
Why 2026 – Travelers are showing increased interest in nature-focused European destinations with authentic cultural experiences and fewer crowds. Terceira fits this demand with strong eco-tourism appeal, heritage-rich towns, and accessible flight connections. Its combination of outdoor activities, local traditions, and relaxed island atmosphere positions it as a standout for travelers searching for something distinctive in the Atlantic.
Travel Tips – Take the time to explore remote viewpoints, hike marked trails for dramatic landscapes, sample the island’s signature cheeses and local wines, and consider whale-watching excursions along the coast.
4. Queenstown, New Zealand – Outdoor Adventure and Alpine Escapes
Queenstown is a premier destination for adventure travelers, combining adrenaline-filled activities with some of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes. Thrill-seekers can leap from high-altitude bridges with bungee jumps, race through rivers on jet boats, hike alpine trails with sweeping mountain views, or ski and snowboard during the southern hemisphere winter. Lake Wakatipu stretches beneath rugged peaks, its shimmering waters reflecting the surrounding Remarkables Mountains, creating a striking backdrop for every outdoor pursuit. Beyond extreme sports, the area offers quieter moments with scenic lake cruises, gentle walking trails, and lookout points that highlight the region’s natural beauty, making Queenstown appealing to families and travelers seeking both adventure, nature or both.
Why 2026 – Mountain and nature-focused escapes are a growing trend among travelers. Queenstown combines this coming year – adrenaline-filled adventures with breathtaking alpine landscapes, making it ideal for thrill-seekers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families seeking active vacations.
Travel Tips – Visit during the southern hemisphere summer (December–February) for hiking, water activities, and scenic lake excursions, or during winter (June–August) for world-class skiing and snow sports.
5. Udaipur, India – Lakes, Palaces, and Spiritual Journeys
Udaipur, the “City of Lakes,” is famous for its serene waters and stunning palaces, including the iconic Lake Palace Hotel, featured in the James Bond film Octopussy. The city’s royal architecture is mirrored in Lake Pichola, while the lively bazaars of the Old City showcase hand-painted miniature art, traditional Rajasthani textiles, and locally crafted jewelry. Beyond its cinematic allure, Udaipur’s historic temples, heritage hotels, and hilltop viewpoints offer an unforgettable glimpse into the city’s royal past and centuries-old local rituals and practices.
Why 2026 – India’s renewed investment in spiritual and heritage tourism is shaping travel patterns for 2026, with many visitors looking beyond major metros to places that offer deeper cultural connection.
Udaipur fits this shift well: its lakeside setting, palatial architecture, and community-led arts traditions give travelers space to slow down while still engaging with local life. This growing interest in culturally rooted travel is placing Udaipur firmly on the map for the year ahead.
Travel Tips – Take a sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola for dinner & traditional dance at the Lake Palace Hotel, browse markets for hand-crafted textiles, miniature art, and jewelry, and consider Jaipur’s Amber and City Palaces or Mount Abu’s Dilwara Temples for your itinerary. Visit Udaipur to October and March for comfortable weather.
Take inspiration for a trip from our selection of private guided tours in India:
- Classic Rajasthan – Delhi, Agra, Sawai Madhopur, Jaipur, Nagaur, Shahpura, Jodhpur, Udaipur & Mumbai
- Romantic India & Goa – Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Old Goa & Mumbai
- Kerala Culinary Tour – Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady, Kumarakom
- Splendors Of North India – Delhi, Varanasi, Agra, Bishangarh, Manoharpur, Jaipur, Udaipur
- Romantic India & Darjeeling – Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Darjeeling
- Wildlife in Central India – Delhi, Nagpur, Baihar, Tala, Panna, Khajuraho
- Classic Kerala – Munnar, Thekkady, Alappuzha, Kumarakom
- The Heart of Rajasthan – Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur
- Culinary Delights of India – Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata
6. Marrakech, Morocco – North Africa’s Emerging Star
Marrakech weaves together the energy of its lively Medina, the grandeur of historic palaces, and the artistry of centuries-old craft traditions, offering visitors a uniquely Moroccan experience. The city’s UNESCO-listed Medina is a maze of winding streets filled with bustling souks, artisan workshops, and traditional riads. Landmarks like the Bahia Palace and the bustling Djemaa el-Fna square showcase Morocco’s intricate architecture, colorful ornamentation, and centuries-old urban culture, while the city’s markets overflow with handwoven textiles, aromatic spices, and handcrafted jewelry. The flavors of Marrakech – tagines, fresh mint tea, and pastries – reflect the city’s blend of Mediterranean and Saharan influences.
Why 2026 – Interest in North Africa is rising among long-haul travelers seeking destinations that combine cultural depth, authentic local encounters, and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Marrakech stands out as a hub for immersive Moroccan culture, from artisan workshops and traditional cuisine to evening performances in Djemaa el-Fna. Its growing accessibility and rising profile among global travelers make it a top choice for 2026.
Travel Tips: See the Medina early to experience souks at their liveliest without the crowds. Try Moroccan pastries, fresh mint tea, & traditional tagines. Visit the Atlas Mountains, Berber villages, with dramatic desert landscapes surrounding the city. Marrakech is best during the cooler months of October to March.
Finest Journeys offers a selection of private guided tours in and around Morocco, you can also contact us for a custom-built itinerary.
- Moroccan Discovery Honeymoon – Casablanca, Rabat, Fez, Merzouga, Ouarzazate & Marrakech
- Moroccan Jewish Heritage – Casablanca, Rabat, Fez, Marrakech
- Morocco: From Desert to Sea – Casablanca, Fez, Er-Rich, Ouarzazate, Aït-Benhaddou, Marrakech
- Marrakech Family Moments – Marrakech & Ourika Valley
- Moroccan Southern Jewels – Marrakech, Ouarzazate, Taroudannt, Ait Baha, Sidi Ifni & Essaouira
7. Valparaíso, Chile – Colorful Coastal Culture
Valparaíso is a hillside city known for its combination of painted buildings, winding streets, and quirky funiculars. It’s a hub for music, arts, and local culture, with street art, galleries, and live performances around nearly every corner.
The historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage site, maintains its colonial architecture alongside bohemian cafés, artisanal shops, and scenic lookout points over the Pacific Ocean. Nearby, the Casablanca and Maipo Valleys have beautiful vineyards and wine-tasting experiences.
Why 2026: – Valparaíso is emerging as a top choice for those craving hands-on experiences with music, art, and local flavors. Its growing reputation for live performances, art festivals, and traditional gastronomy, combined with nearby wine regions, allows visitors to connect directly with Valparaíso’s creative spirit and culinary traditions. These qualities are driving increased interest in 2026 among travelers seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Travel Tips – Look for murals in the early hours, ride a funicular for bay views, and explore local cafés and galleries. Nearby wine regions – Casablanca and Maipo – make easy day trips. September to April brings the best conditions.
Check out our tours in Chile:
- A Chilean Journey visiting Santiago de Chile, San Pedro de Atacama, Puerto Varas, Chiloé Island, Puerto Natales, Cartagena
- Flavors of Chile Taste the delights of Santiago de Chile, San Pedro de Atacama, Viña del Mar
Reykjavík, Iceland – Nature, Northern Lights, and Slow Travel
Reykjavík is a compact city with a big personality, where colorful rooftops meet dramatic coastal cliffs. It’s a hub for Icelandic culture, music, and culinary traditions, with local cafés, galleries, and craft breweries giving visitors a taste of the country’s creative spirit. Beyond the city, Reykjavík is the gateway to Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes: geothermal hot springs, glaciers, volcanic fields, and fjords. The chance to witness the Northern Lights in winter or enjoy the midnight sun in summer makes Reykjavík a year-round destination for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences.
Why 2026 – Iceland is rising in popularity as a destination for sustainable and experiential travel. Reykjavík offers direct access to the country’s nearby geothermal hot springs, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes, while the city itself showcases Icelandic music, art, and culinary culture.
In 2026, travelers are setting their sights on Reykjavík for its unique combination of volcanic terrain, fjords, and Icelandic arts and cuisine, as well as the amazing opportunity to witness the Northern Lights and soak up the endless daylight of the Icelandic summer.
Travel Tips – Stay near the city center for easy walks to cafés, shops, and galleries. Join a Golden Circle tour for Þingvellir, Gullfoss, and Geysir; visit the Blue Lagoon or smaller geothermal pools; and plan for Northern Lights outings in winter or outdoor activities in summer. The best times to visit are June to August for long days or September to April for aurora sightings.
Finest Journeys offers several private guided tours in Iceland:
Iceland Highlights – Reykjavík, Bláskógabyggð, Hella, Hvolsvöllur, Vík í Mýrdal, Djúpivogur, Egilsstaðir, Mývatn, Húsavík & Borgarnes
Northern Lights – Keflavík, Selfoss, Hvolsvöllur, Reykjavík
Iceland Nature & Cuisine– Reykjavík, Hella, Hvolsvöllur, Hveragerði, Stykkishólmur
9. Lima, Peru – Culinary and Historical Adventures
Lima, perched on the Pacific coast, is a city where Peruvian flavors, music, and creativity intersect. Neighborhoods like Barranco and Miraflores are filled with galleries, music venues, and bustling markets where visitors can taste authentic Peruvian dishes and watch local artisans at work. The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases colonial architecture, ornate churches, and plazas that tell the story of Lima’s past. Beyond the city, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu provide opportunities to explore Peru’s ancient heritage and dramatic landscapes.
Why 2026 – Lima is emerging as one of South America’s must-visit cities in 2026, offering a unique combination of culinary excellence, historic architecture, and thriving arts districts. The city’s renowned ceviche, coastal markets, and innovative dining experiences draw food lovers, while the UNESCO-listed historic center and bohemian Barranco neighborhood showcase centuries of history, murals, and live music.
With the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu nearby, visitors can pair city life with iconic Peruvian landmarks, making Lima a top destination for those planning adventures in 2026.
Travel Tips –Wander through Lima’s UNESCO-listed historic center to see its colonial plazas, ornate churches, and striking architecture that reflect the city’s centuries of history. Spend time in Barranco to discover murals, art galleries, live music, and local cafés. Sample Peru’s famous ceviche, try street food, or join a cooking class to learn traditional recipes firsthand. For a mix of urban culture and iconic landmarks, plan day trips to the Sacred Valley or Machu Picchu. The best months to visit are May to September for mild weather and clear skies.
Finest Journeys private guided tours in and around Peru:
Our private tours available in and around Vietnam:
10. Hoi An, Vietnam – Authentic Southeast Asia
Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is emerging as one of Southeast Asia’s most compelling destinations for 2026. The city’s lantern-lit streets, well-preserved merchant houses, and centuries-old tailoring and silk workshops showcase its legacy as a historic trading port and center for artisan craftsmanship. The Ancient Town’s riverside cafés and artisan shops, combined with the surrounding rice paddies, fishing villages, and nearby beaches, create a destination where architectural beauty, traditional crafts, and coastal scenery come together in a distinctly Vietnamese setting.
Why 2026 – Hoi An is attracting renewed attention as a top Southeast Asian destination in 2026 due to its growing accessibility and thoughtful expansion of tourism beyond the Ancient Town. Efforts to highlight surrounding villages, coastal areas, and artisanal workshops are making it possible to experience the city’s craft, cuisine, and local life with less congestion. Combined with the well-preserved architecture, centuries-old tailoring traditions, and scenic riverside setting, these developments position Hoi An as a unique destination for travelers seeking a culturally rich and visually striking experience in 2026.
Travel Tips – Explore the Ancient Town on a guided walk to discover its trading history and architecture, join a cooking class for local dishes, cycle through nearby rice paddies and fishing villages, and relax on An Bang or Cua Dai beaches. The best time to visit is February to May.
Strategic Travel Insights for 2026
Offbeat & Emerging Destinations: Prioritize locations that are gaining attention but are not yet mainstream. These destinations offer more authentic experiences, fewer crowds, and the opportunity to engage with local culture in meaningful ways.
Experiential Travel: Wellness, adventure, hands-on craft, and culinary experiences continue to drive travel decisions. Travelers increasingly seek activities that go beyond sightseeing to create memorable, personal connections with the destination.
Sustainable Travel: Eco-conscious and slow-travel options resonate with the growing demand for responsible tourism. Destinations emphasizing preservation, local economies, and natural landscapes are becoming more attractive.
Multi-layered Experiences: Combining history, local traditions, food, adventure, and scenic exploration creates richer trips. Travelers value destinations where multiple interests can be pursued within a single itinerary.