2026 is shaping up to be an exceptional year for luxury travel. From pristine island escapes and vibrant cultural cities to safari-infused adventures and refined coastal retreats, the world offers an array of destinations that promise unforgettable experiences.
Below are some of the best luxury destinations for 2026, chosen for their climate, quality of resorts, depth of experience and suitability for bespoke travel planning.
1. Maldives — Ultimate Island Luxury
The Maldives continues to rank among the world’s most coveted luxury destinations, offering crystal-clear turquoise waters, private island resorts and signature overwater villas.
Highlights for 2026
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Private villas with plunge pools and ocean views
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Bespoke dining and wellness experiences
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Snorkelling, diving and marine life close at hand
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Unmatched serenity and privacy
Best for couples, honeymoons, anniversaries and families seeking a premium beach escape.
2. Caribbean — Elegant Island Retreats
The Caribbean’s dry season runs through much of the UK winter and early spring, making it ideal for a sun-soaked luxury getaway.
Top Islands
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Barbados — refined beach resorts and excellent dining
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St Lucia — dramatic volcanic scenery and boutique luxury
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Antigua — calm waters and exceptional beachfront resorts
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Jamaica — vibrant culture and high-end all-inclusive options
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The Bahamas — pristine sands and ultra-luxury properties
The Caribbean is perfect for winter sun escapes, family holidays and bespoke resort stays.
3. Italy — Culture, Coast and Cuisine
Italy remains a perennial favourite for luxury travel in Europe. With world-class food, heritage cities and stunning coastal regions, it is ideal for multi-centre itineraries.
Key Regions
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Amalfi Coast — cliffside luxury and fine dining
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Lake Como — romantic lakeside estates
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Tuscany — vineyard retreats and wellness escapes
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Sicily & Sardinia — elegant beach resorts and cultural depth
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Rome, Florence & Venice — art, history and boutique hotels
Italy is perfect for food enthusiasts, culture lovers and sophisticated escapes.
4. Greece — Island Elegance and History
Greece delivers exceptional family-friendly resorts, luxury villas and boutique island stays.
Standout Destinations
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Santorini — dramatic caldera views and stylish hotels
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Mykonos — upscale beach clubs and boutique luxury
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Crete — expansive coastlines with premium resorts
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Halkidiki — calm waters and high-end family hotels
This destination is ideal for summer escapes, family travel and refined seaside relaxation.
5. Dubai & United Arab Emirates — Desert Glamour and Urban Luxury
Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah continue to define luxury in the Middle East with their mix of high-end hotels, world-class dining, shopping and desert experiences.
Why It Works for 2026
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Consistently warm winter sun
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Exceptional hotel service and facilities
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Luxurious desert and beach experiences
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Excellent family and couple-oriented attractions
Dubai is a reliable option for winter sun and premium city escapes.
6. South Africa — Summer Safari & Coastal Style
South Africa enjoys summer from November through March — making it an outstanding winter sun destination with a wider range of experiences.
Key Highlights
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Cape Town — refined urban hospitality and scenic beauty
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Winelands — luxury vineyards and gourmet experiences
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Safari Lodges — private game reserves with world-class service
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Garden Route — scenic coastal drives and elegant hideaways
South Africa is ideal for families, couples and multi-centre safari-plus-beach holidays.
7. Thailand — Island Comfort and Cultural Richness
Thailand blends warm weather with a rich cultural tapestry and excellent hospitality standards.
Best Regions
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Phuket — luxury beachfront resorts and vibrant dining
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Koh Samui — tranquil boutique escapes
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Krabi — dramatic limestone landscapes and premium hotels
Thailand offers cultural experiences, wellness retreats and beach luxury at exceptional value.
8. Japan — Refined Discovery and Seasonal Highlights
With a blend of traditional heritage and modern elegance, Japan is increasingly sought after for luxury travel.
Highlights for 2026
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Cherry blossom viewing in spring
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Michelin-star dining routes
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Traditional ryokans and luxury boutique hotels
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Cultural experiences and historical cities (Kyoto, Tokyo, Osaka)
Japan is ideal for travellers seeking refined culture, gastronomy and seasonal beauty.
9. Mexico — Riviera Maya and Baja Elegance
Mexico’s luxury beach destinations combine warm weather with premium resorts and exceptional service.
Popular Areas
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Riviera Maya — stylish beachfront properties and eco-luxury options
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Los Cabos — desert-meets-ocean luxury with world-class golf
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Tulum (premium segment) — boutique luxury and beach sophistication
Ideal for couples, families and all-inclusive travellers seeking warmth and quality.
10. New Zealand — Summer Adventure and Scenic Grandeur
For luxury travellers willing to venture further, New Zealand’s summer (December–March) offers dramatic landscapes and immersive experiences.
Why New Zealand
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Private luxury lodges and boutique boutique hotels
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Nature-focused itineraries, from fjords to vineyards
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Premium wine regions and gourmet experiences
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Scenic drives tailored to bespoke travel
New Zealand appeals to couples and families who value natural beauty and curated luxury.
Choosing the Best Destination for You
When selecting a luxury destination for 2026, I consider:
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Your ideal travel dates and weather preferences
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Whether you want beach, culture, adventure or culinary focus
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Accessibility and flight times for your group
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Preferred style of accommodation and service
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Any special occasions or experiences you want included
This allows me to craft a personalised itinerary that perfectly suits how you want to travel.
Start Planning Your 2026 Luxury Holiday
2026 offers extraordinary opportunities to explore some of the world’s most exceptional destinations. If you would like tailored advice, resort recommendations or a bespoke holiday design, I would be delighted to help.
Begin Planning Your Luxury Holiday
If you are looking for a tailor-made luxury holiday that is designed around you, I would be delighted to help.
As a Personal Travel Consultant, I am able to organise fantastic holidays all over the world that are completely ABTA and ATOL protected. Also being part of the Hays Travel Group, I have the backing and resource of the largest independent travel group in the UK – meaning great service and prices!