For British travellers plotting their next great escape, the world is brimming with possibilities. As the UK's aviation sector expands, adding new routes and increasing competition, the primary challenge is no longer how to get there, but where to go. Rory Boland, Travel Editor at Which?, has shared his expert picks for the ten destinations set to capture the imagination of globetrotters in 2026.
From Natural Wonders to Cultural Capitals
The list offers a remarkable range of experiences. El Salvador emerges as a surprising standout, now regularly ranked as the safest country in the Americas. This Central American nation is a natural paradise of Pacific beaches, volcanic lakes, and Mayan ruins. Travellers can explore the Ruta de las Flores, soak in hot springs, and enjoy beach towns like Los Cobanos, often for just a few dollars for a taxi, beer, and lunch.
Meanwhile, the gravitational pull of Seoul, South Korea, continues to grow. Driven by the global phenomenon of K-Pop and hit series like Squid Game, the sprawling capital offers neon-lit karaoke bars in Hongdae, 24-hour shopping at DDP Plaza, and a renowned food scene. Access is set to improve, with Virgin Atlantic joining Asiana and Korean Air on the London to Seoul route in March 2026, which should help drive down airfares.
Historic Sites and Celestial Flights
History buffs have two monumental destinations to consider. In Giza, Egypt, the recently opened Grand Egyptian Museum promises to unravel the mysteries of the pyramids. It houses over 100,000 artefacts, including the entire tomb of Tutankhamun and a 4,500-year-old funerary boat so well-preserved it could theoretically sail today.
Closer to home, Unst in the Shetland Islands is poised to make history as the site of Europe's first spaceport. If SaxaVord wins the race with Norway's Andøya and successfully launches a vertical rocket in 2026, space fans won't need to cross the Atlantic to witness a lift-off, though tourist facilities are currently limited.
European Gems and American Celebrations
In Europe, Georgia boasts the continent's highest mountain range, the world's oldest vineyards, and a capital, Tbilisi, hailed as one of its most exciting cities. Direct flights from easyJet and British Airways have finally made this destination more accessible.
For a classic summer holiday with a twist, the Olympus Riviera in Greece offers an alternative to the crowded islands. Stretching around the feet of Mount Olympus, this region provides beautiful beaches, tavernas, and archaeological sites, often at more local prices, with easy access via Thessaloniki Airport.
Across the Atlantic, Massachusetts will be the epicentre of the United States' 250th-anniversary celebrations on July 4, 2026. From Boston, where colonists famously tipped tea into the harbour, to Lexington and Concord, the state will host hundreds of events, re-enactments, and fireworks.
Adventure and Value for 2026
For adventure seekers, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe is experiencing a revival, with nearly a dozen new luxury lodges opening with views of the world's largest waterfall. New flight routes and confidence in the country's stability are fuelling tourism, offering everything from safari adventures to white-water rafting.
Skiers looking for reliable snow might turn to the Scandinavian Mountains. With warmer winters affecting the Alps, this range offers more snow earlier in the season. The arrival of easyJet and Crystal Ski charters in December 2025 has made its resorts far easier to reach from the UK.
Finally, with potential trade tensions between the US and Canada, Canada presents a compelling alternative for a North American holiday. From the vibrant city of Vancouver to the vast wilderness of its national parks, it offers culture, cuisine, and untouched natural beauty.
With more flight options than ever, the world truly is your oyster for 2026. The only limit is your wanderlust.
