Where to Travel in 2026

Qatar

Years of Culture is an annual cultural exchange program that sees Qatar partner with other nations to host collaborative events spanning art, design, food and sport. The 2026 edition unites Qatar, Canada and Mexico in a year-long celebration blending Qatari heritage with Canadian multiculturalism and Mexican traditions. Think: public exhibitions, performances, conversations, educational initiatives and sporting showcases.

Expect highlights like April’s Design Doha festival, which spotlights MENA design excellence and transforms Msheireb Downtown into a global hub of innovative exhibitions. A soccer thread ties it together—Qatar’s 2022 FIFA World Cup legacy meets Canada’s co-hosting role this year alongside the US—making it a perfect excuse to visit this desert-meets-sea gem, from Doha’s dazzling skyline and world-class museums to immersive souqs and desert adventures.

New Zealand

Known for its spectacular landscapes and plentiful opportunities for outdoorsy pursuits, New Zealand is likely already at the top of your list. But here’s another reason to make 2026 the year you finally visit: The country has opened its doors to Michelin guide inspectors, who have already awarded 19 properties the coveted Michelin Key distinction. The hotel equivalent of Michelin Stars, Keys denotes overall excellence in hospitality, design and experience.

So far, notable recipients include the Rosewood Estate’s Cape Kidnappers, which offers an award-winning golf course and sweeping views set on a working sheep farm, The Lindis in Ōmārama with its luxe-minimalist pods nestled in the striking Ahuriri Valley, and Huka Lodge in Taupō, which is New Zealand’s oldest luxury lodge. Decisions, decisions.

Saint-Tropez, France

The French Riviera hardly needed a tourism boost, but it’s getting one anyway, thanks to becoming the setting of the upcoming fourth season of The White Lotus. The hit HBO drama heads back to the European coast, with the action set to take place at the tony Château de La Messardière. The 19th century palace was originally built as a wedding present for Louise Dupuy d’Angeac, later becoming the site of Gatsby-esque bacchanals during the Roaring Twenties. Today it’s an 86-room luxury hotel (bearing France’s coveted “Palace” designation) that has all the usual trappings: manicured grounds, azure-blue pool and seaside views. Ideal for getaways of the scripted and spontaneous kind.

Hanoi, Vietnam

This walkable, historic city has it all: atmospheric streets, dense markets and an incredible food scene. No wonder the Fairmont group chose this capital for its next luxury property, and its first in Vietnam. Located in the city’s Old Quarter, and just steps from Hoàn Kiếm Lake, the luxe accommodation features eight on-site restaurants and bars (led by celeb chef Luke Nguyen), a 38,000 wellness hub and a rooftop infinity pool.

Dominica

“The island of Dominica is one of the most unspoiled islands in the Caribbean,” says Fora X travel advisor Lisa Metrikin. The island features hundreds (yes, hundreds) of rivers, nine volcanoes and striking black sand beaches. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking off-the-grid, authentic outdoor experiences—like gorgeous hikes through the rainforests, river tubing, kayaking, snorkeling and scuba diving, canyoning, waterfall rappelling and more. There are no huge resorts on this island and no cruise ships, which makes for a mindful eco escape. Stay in Secret Bay, a two-Michelin-Key resort made up of villas with private plunge pools, secluded beaches and a concierge service.

The East Cape, Mexico

When a hospitality group as lauded as Aman eyes a new location, you take note. For its next opening, the luxury hotel collection is setting up in Mexico’s East Cape on the Sea of Cortez—a region celebrated for its distinct desert-meets-beachfront landscapes. Amanvari, set to open this spring, is a cluster of 18 rooms, suites and villas. The property also includes three dining venues (Italian, Japanese and Baja regional cuisine are all represented), a longevity-focused spa (which includes a modern interpretation of the traditional temazcal sweat lodge) and a private, swimmable beach.

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Combining beaches, mountains and safaris into one spot (with a year-round tropical climate, to boot), this South African province offers an unbeatable mix of adventures. Start with beach hopping along the South Coast for swimming and surfing, check out the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and then hike the Drakensberg Mountains. For a jolt of local spirit, head to Durban to be immersed in Zulu culture and walk the waterfront promenade. Top it all off with a safari trip to see the Big Five in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi park. Club Med just so happens to be opening its first South African property in July 2026, combining beach access and its first-ever surf school with off-site safari tours—all in an all-inclusive, family-friendly environment.