Where to Go in 2026: 10 Hot Destinations Worth Booking Early

From once-in-a-lifetime events to ultra-exclusive escapes, here’s where the smart travelers are planning ahead.

Cape Town destination 2026

Cape Town, South Africa

If you’re already dreaming of your next great adventure, you’re not alone — 2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest years in travel, with global events, new hotel openings, and luxury destinations that are already booking up fast. Whether you're craving a cultural deep dive, a stylish escape, or a front-row seat to history, these are the 10 destinations you’ll want to reserve now — before the best suites are gone.

1. USA (FIFA World Cup 2026)

Luxury hotel rooftop in New York City with skyline views, ideal for World Cup 2026 travelers

New York, USA

Where: Host cities include New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and cities around Canada and Mexico.
Why book now: The world's biggest sporting event is taking over the U.S., Canada & Mexico— and hotels in host cities will sell out fast.
Travel Digest Tip: Book with us to unlock VIP perks at the best hotels, plus curated pre- and post-game experiences.

2. Japan

Elegant suite at The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo with Mt. Fuji views and modern Japanese decor

Mt. Fuji, Japan

Where: Tokyo, Kyoto, Hakone, Nikko
Why book now: Japan continues to trend upward post-reopening, and 2026 is ideal for cherry blossom season, luxury rail journeys, and temple retreats.
Don’t Miss: The 3rd-night free offers at The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo, Kyoto & Nikko (ask us for details!).

3. The Amalfi Coast, Italy

Iconic cliffside hotel in Positano with private terrace and panoramic sea views

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Where: Positano, Ravello, Capri
Why book now: Always in demand, but 2026 will be even hotter with new luxury openings and expanded yacht charters.
Travel Digest Tip: We’ll help you beat the crowds with shoulder-season stays and VIP upgrades at cliffside hideaways.

4. Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

Secluded beach with turquoise water and eco-luxury bungalow in Fernando de Noronha

Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

Where: This remote island paradise off the Brazilian coast
Why book now: Strict visitor caps and limited hotels make it one of the most exclusive beach destinations in the world.
Best for: Honeymoons, off-grid luxury, and wild beauty.

5. Paros & Milos, Greece

Whitewashed luxury villa with infinity pool in Paros overlooking the Aegean Sea

Paros, Greece

Why book now: Travelers are skipping Santorini for Greece’s lesser-known (and less crowded) island gems.
What’s New: Boutique hotels and ultra-private villas with full-service staff are rising — and they go fast.

6. South Africa

Modern safari lodge suite with private plunge pool in Kruger National Park

Stellenbosch, South Africa

Where: Cape Town, the Winelands, Kruger
Why book now: 2026 is perfect for combining luxury safari with coastal style. The best lodges and game drives are booking 12–18 months out.
Bonus: You’ll get two vacations in one — wine, design, wildlife, and top-tier hospitality.

7. Iceland

Geothermal spa retreat at the Blue Lagoon with minimalist luxury design

Where: The Highlands, Blue Lagoon, Deplar Farm
Why book now: The ultimate “coolcation” continues to trend — think lava fields, hot springs, and spa sanctuaries.
Travel Digest Tip: We secure hard-to-get rooms at ultra-remote lodges with private guides and full-board luxury.

8. Tasmania, Australia

Coastal eco-luxury lodge in Tasmania surrounded by pristine wilderness and ocean views

Why book now: Pristine wilderness, five-star eco-lodges, and a booming culinary scene make this a rising luxury escape for 2026.
Who it's for: Stylish adventurers and slow travelers.

9. Saudi Arabia

Futuristic luxury resort set among sandstone cliffs in AlUla, Saudi Arabia

Where: AlUla, Red Sea coast, Riyadh
Why book now: A bold new destination is emerging — Aman, Six Senses, and other major players are opening jaw-dropping resorts.
Ideal for: Culture seekers, early adopters, and Middle East luxury loyalists.

10. Paris, France (Olympics Afterglow)

Eiffel Tower view from a Parisian luxury hotel suite with classic Haussmann design

Paris, France

Why book now: While the 2024 Games are over, Paris’s infrastructure and hotel scene will be at its prime in 2026.
Best time to go: Spring and early fall — post-Olympic glow, minus the crowds.


Final Tip: Plan Ahead, Travel Better

The world’s most coveted stays don’t sit around waiting. Booking early means better rates, more perks, and the best rooms — and when you book with Travel Digest, you get VIP treatment every step of the way.

Ready to plan your 2026 trip? Click Here to Contact Us
We’ll curate every detail — from flights and hotels to once-in-a-lifetime experiences.


WHY BOOK WITH TRAVEL DIGEST?

As a preferred partner of the world’s top travel brands, Travel Digest offers exclusive perks and added benefits to our clients booking hotels through our Travel Advisors.

  • As a Travel Digest client, enjoy complimentary daily breakfast for two guests per room.

  • As a Travel Digest client, receive up to 500 USD hotel credit to be used towards food and beverages during their stay.

  • As a Travel Digest client, enjoy a complimentary room upgrade upon arrival, subject to availability.

  • As a Travel Digest client, enjoy early check-in and late check-out, subject to availability.

  • Travel Digest clients are treated as VIPs, with personalized attention and priority service, thanks to our trusted partnerships with leading hotels.

  • Many hotels—especially truly high-end establishments—offer these perks and often even more exclusive benefits. Contact us to request a personalized quote and discover what VIP privileges you are entitled to.

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