The most buzzworthy destinations of 2026, according to Canadian travel advisors

Another year, another chance to explore the world.

As 2026 gets underway, Canadian travel advisors are fielding questions about where to go next, and the answers reveal shifting priorities.

From polar expeditions gaining traction to Caribbean islands attracting clients seeking affordability without sacrificing experience, the destinations generating buzz this year reflect both economic pressures and evolving traveller interests.

To understand what's capturing attention in 2026, PAX asked Canadian travel advisors to share the destinations and travel styles generating the most conversation—both with clients and within the industry. 

The responses reveal a travel landscape shaped by value, purpose, and the desire for experiences that feel both meaningful and accessible.

Which destinations are making the biggest buzz heading into 2026? Here's what travel professionals had to say.

Julie Smigadis – Travel Our World

Most buzzworthy destinations? Antarctica, the Maldives & cruise ships

Antarctica has gone from hardcore expedition territory to a true bucket-list trip, said Julie Smigadis of Travel Our World, and the interest is exploding.

"The big shift is expedition cruising—ships are far more comfortable now, without taking away from the adventure," Smigadis said. "You've got expert guides, unreal wildlife, and the kind of scenery that makes you forget your phone exists."

It's "emotional, humbling, and wildly beautiful," she said, noting the importance of selecting suppliers that prioritize sustainability. "Antarctica deserves to stay exactly as it is, untouched and beautifully preserved."

Cruising more broadly is also having "a very real renaissance," Smigadis added. 

The newest ships coming online for 2026 are "destinations in themselves—thoughtfully designed, experience-driven, and incredibly versatile," she said.

"For travellers who want variety without sacrificing comfort, and who love unpacking once, this style of cruising hits the mark."

The Maldives is spectacular and lived up to all the hype, notes Smigadis, who recently visited as the #1 Envoyage agent in Canada. 

"What's trending now is a more thoughtful, intentional version of luxury," she said. 

"New and upcoming resorts are leaning heavily into wellness, sustainability, and highly personalized service rather than over-the-top excess."

Lisa Dunne – Treasured Moments Travel

Most buzzworthy destinations? Cuba, Alaska cruises & Antigua

Cuba is becoming more popular with travellers, said Lisa Dunne of Treasured Moments Travel.

"With travel costs rising consistently each year, many clients are prioritizing more budget-friendly options, and Cuba's attractive pricing fits that need well," she said.

Alaskan cruises have long held strong popularity and continue to do so, Dunne said. 

However, Marella Cruises, offered by Sunwing Vacations, has seen a significant increase in demand, she said.

"Its appeal lies in excellent value and the unique advantage of departing from La Romana, rather than the U.S.," she said. "This departure point allows travellers to enjoy a Caribbean cruise experience while bypassing U.S. ports, an important consideration for many of my cruisers today."

Antigua is increasingly popular among repeat travellers who seek a more intimate, less commercialized island experience, Dunne added.

"It's also a preferred destination for clients celebrating special occasions, where budgets tend to be more flexible to accommodate a memorable getaway."

Jakki Prince – Prince Adventures Travel 

Most buzzworthy destinations? Greenland & Mongolia 

Expedition travel is attracting an evolving demographic, said Jakki Prince of Prince Adventures Travel.

"The early adopters of expedition travel were outdoor adventure enthusiasts exclusively, and now I have noted multi-generational family groups entering this space," Prince said. 

Well-travelled clients are also looking to expedition opportunities for new and off-the-beaten-path choices as they seek out less crowded spaces.

Greenland is a buzzworthy choice for clients new to expedition travel, Prince said, as the destination is easily combined with Iceland, which has long been a popular outdoor and adventure destination.

Prince also highlighted growing demand for travel with a lens on sustainability.

"Folks are looking for sustainable options and destinations that reflect their personal values," Prince said. "This demand for regenerative travel is growing as people look to lessen their impact and avoid contributing to overtourism."

Prince recently recommended Mongolia to clients for a 2026 trip as a sustainable, off-the-beaten-path choice, using a supplier that works with smaller-impact lodges and operators.

She said Mongolia was also a good fit because the clients wanted to go somewhere their friends had never been. 

John Zeus Tokatlidis – Total Advantage Travel & Tours, Inc.

Most buzzworthy destinations? Portugal & Eastern Europe; Thailand, Japan, Mexico, Costa Rica & the Dominican Republic

2026 is an unprecedented year for travel, said John Zeus Tokatlidis of Total Advantage Travel & Tours, Inc.

"We are seeing a 're-mapping' of the Canadian travellers' priorities based on politics, value, and pop culture," he said.

Tokatlidis calls the first trend the "southern shift" to Mexico, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic. 

"Many Canadian travellers are vocal about avoiding the U.S. until the current administration is out of power, making Mexico, specifically Riviera Maya, and the Dominican Republic the go-to replacements for Florida and California," he said.

Costa Rica has become a top choice for LGBTQIA+ couples and families, Tokatlidis said, "because the country is so progressive, safe, and inclusive."

The second trend is "affordable luxury" in Portugal and Eastern European capitals.

"In a high-inflation era, Canadian travellers are seeking European charm where the dollar goes further without sacrificing the 5-star experience," Tokatlidis said.

While Lisbon and Porto remain staples, the 2026 buzz is moving inland to Alentejo, with travellers seeking "meaningful luxury" like private winery visits, pottery workshops, and stays in historic Pousadas.

The most explosive growth for 2026 is happening in Asia, driven by what Tokatlidis calls the "anime and screen effect."

"Thailand is seeing a massive luxury boom following 'White Lotus'," he said. 

In Japan, luxury travellers are seeking "traditional Japan" beyond the overtouristed hotspots of Kyoto and Osaka.

Tokatlidis highlights Yamagata Prefecture as the "insider" choice for traditional lanterns, authentic ryokan experiences, and waterfall training with Yamabushi monks. 

Hiroshima is trending for its moving history and incredible culinary scene, while Nagoya draws visitors to Ghibli Park.

"The 'anime and K-culture effect' is massive," Tokatlidis said. 

"From the Netflix-fuelled boom in South Korea to the cinematic locations in Japan and Thailand, Canadians are booking trips to walk through the 'real-life' sets of their favourite shows."

Meredith Gillies  – Intoura

Most buzzworthy destinations? Seychelles, Sardinia, Seoul & Morocco

Luxury travel conversations feel very different than they did a few years ago, said Meredith Gillies, founder of Intoura Travel, an independent affiliate of Fareconnect.

"People aren't just asking, 'Where should we go?' They're asking, 'How do we travel without feeling rushed or overwhelmed?'" she said.

Seychelles is one of those places that instantly resonates, Gillies said. 

"Clients love the sense of space and privacy it offers: quiet beaches, private islands, and resorts that feel calm and personal rather than busy or branded." 

"For travellers who've already done the Maldives and the Caribbean, Seychelles feels like a more refined, less predictable option," she said.

In Italy, Gillies is seeing strong interest in Sardinia, especially from clients who love Italy but want something more low-key. 

"While the Amalfi Coast will always have its appeal, Sardinia offers incredible beaches, clear water, and a more understated elegance," she said.

Seoul has also seen an exciting uptick, with new luxury hotels opening and a global spotlight on Korean food, design, and culture. 

"What I love is the contrast of traditional palaces and neighbourhoods against modern design, fashion, wellness, and nightlife," Gillies said. 

"It feels fresh and energizing, especially for well-travelled clients looking for something new."

Morocco is another destination Gillies is actively booking, with Marrakech, Fez, Agadir, and the Atlas Mountains offering world-class riads, desert lodges, and exciting cultural experiences.

Sonya Orr – TTI Travel

Most buzzworthy destinations? Alaska & Tanzania

Explora Journeys remains one of the most luxurious and unique cruise experiences at sea, said Sonya Orr of TTI Travel.

Orr has sailed on the EXPLORA I three times, including hosting a Virtuoso-approved Mediterranean sailing with clients and friends. 

The buzz now is Alaska, Orr said. 

EXPLORA III enters Alaska in 2027, providing "a rare chance for our clients to explore Alaska from a unique perspective," she said.

The ship offers an 11-night journey through glacier-carved fjords and forested islands, including Seward and Wrangell. 

"The best part: it's round-trip from Vancouver," Orr said.

Orr is also working on Africa trips for clients in 2026, from gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda to hiking Mount Kenya, and exploring the charms of Cape Town. 

Lately, Tanzania has been particularly popular.

Specifically, Orr highlights Laba Laba Camps in Tanzania. 

"From glamping in their Out of Africa Explora Legend to the stunning Grumeti Art Lodge overlooking the Serengeti, to Fanjove Private Island in the Songo Songo Archipelago, they offer the most amazing experiences in Tanzania with incredible guides," she said.

Laba Ngorongoro Crater opens in April 2026. 

Orr has experienced seven of their camps and highly recommends checking them out.

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