OUR EDITORS’ 2026 TRAVEL PICKS

And how’s your 2025 been? If it wasn’t the best year you’ve ever had, best believe you’re not alone. TikTok numerologists have been calling it “the end of a cycle,” making this moment feel like the right time to reset and look ahead. And what better way to step into a new chapter than by treating yourself to a proper getaway? From Brazil to Indonesia, our editors share their go-to destinations for 2026.

SINGAPORE AND HONG KONG
words by DOMINIKA GŁOWACZ

images via visitsingapore.com, instagram @gardensbythebay, raffles.com, wikipedia.com @someformofhuman, tripadvisor.nl, pexels.com @ben-cheung, rosewoodhotels.com

Fancying a trip to some of Asia’s most renowned world cities? Start your journey in the city state of Singapore, where you can effortlessly get from (these days social-media viral) Changi Airport to the iconic Raffles Hotel in less than 30 minutes. Established in 1887, this is not only one of Singapore’s oldest hotels, but also stands out from the modern cityscape with its neo-renaissance architecture. Take a short ride to Marina Bay, Singapore’s signature waterfront, and take in some nature in the futuristic setting of Gardens by the Bay, which we have all admired in the beautiful wedding reception scene in Crazy Rich Asians. After indulging in Singapore’s diverse culinary offerings, let the evening wind out with a Singapore Sling, the country’s national drink, at the Raffles Hotel’s Long Bar, where the drink was created in 1915.

Continue your journey in Hong Kong, where a stay at the Rosewood Hotel (#1 in the 2025 World’s 50 Best Hotels) offers you views of the iconic Victoria Harbour, featuring Hong Kong’s famous skyline. Shop in the next-door state of the art mall, K11 Musea, then walk for 5 minutes to the Star Ferry, in operation since 1888, to get to Hong Kong Island’s Central District. Explore a local Cha Chaan Teng, a unique type of café offering a blend of Chinese and British cuisine. Explore the more local Kowloon district, wind down with drinks in one of the city’s top-rated bars, or take a one-hour ferry to nearby Macao for a blend of southern Chinese and Portuguese culture.

BANGKOK
words by PHOEBE GIBSON-DOUGALL

images via visit.bangkok.go.th, fourseasons.com, capellahotels.com and courtesy of ROMÉE AVRIL

Season 3 of HBO’s The White Lotus was undeniably wild, but it was its idyllic Ko Samui setting that really stole the show. We’ve been dreaming of a trip to Thailand ever since, and its vibrant capital Bangkok is the perfect introduction for first-time and returning travellers alike. The bustling city has everything: golden temples engulfed in clouds of incense, food stalls selling fresh local fare, and a blossoming vintage shopping scene. The meandering Chao Phraya River is a relaxing anchor for the city, contrasting nicely against the frenetic traffic and bustle of the streets. There’s no shortage of beautiful places to stay in Bangkok, and the city’s hotels regularly feature on “best of” lists. Our top picks are the Capella Bangkok and the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, two urban sanctuaries in coveted riverside locations.

TOKYO AND KYOTO
words by MARIA MOTA

Visiting Japan isn’t about seeing everything. It’s about catching pieces of it: a tea ceremony, a garden at dawn, a small gallery, a corner shop you stumble into because you looked down the right alley. This is a small guide to those moments, in Tokyo and Kyoto.

Tokyo moves fast, but not in a way that overwhelms. It rewards the curious, the distracted, and anyone willing to get lost for a while. You feel the rhythm in the streets, in the neon reflections, the unexpected quiet corners, and people moving in such coordination it almost feels like a dance. Like Lost in Translation, it can make you feel alone and entirely connected at the same time. Starting high above it all, Bvlgari Tokyo brings Bvlgari's contemporary Italian style and glamour to the capital. With a view over the city, occupying the 40th to 45th floors of the Tokyo Midtown Yaesu skyscraper, the hotel is located in a highly central area, within walking distance of some of the city’s best attractions, including the Imperial Palace and the shopping districts of Nihombashi and Ginza. There’s a creative energy to Azabudai Hills, a neighbourhood that feels like a city within a city. Pace-curated galleries and the relocated Mori Building Digital Art Museum sit beneath views of the iconic Tokyo Tower.

From the capital, you can make your way to Kyoto. A city you fall for before you even realize it. The nature. The quietness. The history. The turning of bicycles. The gardens so green, it pulls you in. The temples tucked between alleys. The slow rhythm of life, like a breath of fresh air. For a stay that sits somewhere between tradition and the present, Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto feels perfectly in place. Rooted in traditional materials and subtle design references, it balances luxury with Kyoto’s understated codes of beauty. AMAN Kyoto sits in a secret garden at the base of Hidari Daimonji Mountain. Minimalist ryokan aesthetics meet spacious, light-filled interiors, allowing each space to exist and breathe with the surrounding landscape and historic forested gardens.

MAANA Homes offers MAANA Experiences, hands-on introductions to everyday Japanese practices. Tea-dye workshops, morning tea ceremonies with breakfast, pottery sessions, each designed to be intimate rather than instructional. Between temples and cafés, every corner you find craftsmanship, care, and timeless quality. Step into The Le Labo Café, archive/bar Hachimonjiya, or for a quieter pause, Ippodo Tea Kyoto serves some of the finest Japanese teas.

SUMBA
words by MARIE-PAULINE CESARI

As this year finally winds down, I’ve felt that strange mix of exhaustion, hope, and pressure about what 2026 “should” look like. And honestly? I think what most of us really need is a moment to breathe — a place that lets us step out of our own heads for a while. I’ve been thinking less about goals or deadlines and more about the moments I actually want to feel. One place keeps coming up on my wish list: Sumba, in Indonesia.

I’d love to go for the quiet. Unlike Bali, Sumba feels untouched, raw, and wide open. I imagine floating in the turquoise waters of Nihiwatu Bay, the sun warming my skin as the world slows down. Wandering through hilltop villages in Lamboya, where life seems frozen in time, or tracing hidden paths to waterfalls tucked into the jungle, hearing nothing but rushing water. or losing myself in emerald rice fields in Wanukaka.

And somewhere along the way, I’d like to stay somewhere simple but special — Nihi Sumba, perched at the edge of wildness. From what I’ve read, it’s not about extravagance, but about space, intention, and feeling completely held by your surroundings.

NEW YORK
words by MAREK BARTEK

images via pexels.com @st-supreme, bhsusa.com, courtesy of DANIEL ROOT, instagram @themarkhotelny, pods.com, blog.resy.com, lesliegarfield.com

​​Somewhere between Empire State of Mind and Native New Yorker, I have found myself dreaming of the city that never sleeps. 2026 marks ten years since my last visit, and I would love to re-explore New York, this time as an adult who is allowed to enter a bar.

New York might be “just” a city, but I made a promise to stay for at least two weeks if I ever go back. The first half would be spent doing typical touristy things — yes, I’m not ashamed to admit I’d love to go see The Statue of Liberty or walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. Among the non-negotiables of the first week are staying at a nice hotel like The Mark, watching Manhattan from the ferry on the East River while listening to A Case of You by Joni Mitchell, and doing everything I possibly can to see SNL. 

The second half would be dedicated to my temporary transformation into a New Yorker, experiencing the city with my friends who live there. We’d go to decent bars, I’d do some hangover shopping while they’re at work, and then we’d go to the most bizarre place that could straight up be a recommendation from Stefon, fighting off rats on the subway on the way home. I’d read a book and talk to strangers; there truly is no other place where you feel like a main character and invisible, all at once — there is no other place like New York.

UTAH 
words by MAREK BARTEK

images via heyusa.com, tripadvisor.com, aman.com, visitutah.com, spacetourismguide.com

Call it the influence of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, in 2026 Utah is the place to be — and not only to find yourself a backflipping man. At the time when we spend an insane amount of time glued to the screens, I found myself craving a moment to turn off and reconnect with nature and myself, and figure out life without constantly checking my emails — and Utah might just be the place to do that. From the scenic views of the Wasatch and Oquirrh Mountains in the background of Salt Lake City to the canyons in the south, "The Beehive State" has so much to offer, but remains a rather understated location. 

Landing in Salt Lake City, the first stop would have to be Bonneville Salt Flats. It is just an absolutely surreal place. There’s not much to do BUT among those few things — stargazing — is what I will be doing. 

I might be dreaming about a simpler life but I’m definitely not ready to embrace the Mormon lifestyle, and to get that perfect balance, Amangiri is definitely the place to stay. It is peaceful and serene but still has all the amenities a city person will appreciate. Its location also allows for a lot of day trips to explore the south of Utah and north of Arizona. The list could be crazy long, but what cannot be skipped is: Lake Powell, Monument Valley, The Narrows, Peek-A-Boo and Spooky Slot Canyon, Labyrinth Canyon and Antelope Canyon. I could go on and on about how breathtaking they are but if I or you ever end up going, we will see that with our own eyes. 

BRAZIL
words by VERONICA TLAPANCO SZABÓ

images via unesco.org, belmond.com

Naturally my first stop would be Brasília, for it houses one of Brazil’s gems, Oscar Niemeyer!!! For an architecture fiend (like me), the Catedral Metropolitana is a non-negotiable, the interior glasswork alone is transfixing enough to be worth the detour. Next on my list would be the Congresso Nacional and the Itamaraty Palace, both modernist masterpieces of soaring concrete arches, reflective pools, and fancifully floating staircases, all of course courtesy of Niemeyer.

A little more off the beaten path, I’m plotting on the Iguassu Falls, and the Hotel das Cataratas feels like the only way to do it right. Exclusive park access before sunrise and after the crowds depart is what I’m looking forward to the most. Imagine waking up to Brazil’s grandest waterfall, mist landing on your cheeks, coupled with the jungle’s birdsong as a ringtone. There’s naturally a flurry of rainforest excursions at dawn but for me, it's the panoramic helicopter ride over the waterfalls straddling the Argentina-Brazil border that retained my attention (with strategic interludes at the pool and spa of course.)

I would also go further north, where you can find parties until sunrise, rainbow umbrellas and oiled-up people in bikinis and speedos. If you haven’t gotten it by now I’m talking about Rio de Janeiro, there’s so, SO much to do in this marvelous city. Cidade Maravilhosa surely lives up to its name. I’d plant myself at the Copacabana Palace, this centennial Art Deco landmark fronts the beach and carries so much of the city’ spirit so cue Barry Manilow’s At the Copa. Or listen to the sweet bossa nova coming from the nearby bar, and order yourself a Caipirinha…at least that’s what I would do. Still in Rio, the bohemian Santa Teresa awaits with its hilltops, winding streets lined with mansions, kooky cocktail bars, bay-view restaurants, and artists’ studios. There, at the Museu da Chácara do Céu, you’ll find me, até logo!

MEXICO
words by VERONICA TLAPANCO SZABÓ

images via fourseasons.com

As a half-Mexican myself, I’ve wandered around the country a fair bit, mostly orbiting CDMX, but one place I’ve always felt pulled toward is Jalisco. The state stretches between the seaside of Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara, its capital. Peppered with landmarks like the neoclassical Teatro Degollado and regal Guadalajara Cathedral, what’s going on in there right now in terms of creativity, art and design is really interesting, similar to what happened in Mexico City maybe 15 years ago, with new restaurants and new designers coming in. 

From there, I’d retreat to the Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, a private nature reserve tucked away on a secluded peninsula. Here, the Pacific crashes against dramatic cliffs and the jungle breathes in deep green sighs and animal footpaths outnumber human ones. Inside the resort, there is constant motion, a working farm, three infinity pools, a golf course, a spa, nature tours, culinary classes, scuba outings, and six miles of private beach. Once onsite I’d definitely make time to visit one of the many distilleries around (it's the region where tequila originated afterall), some family-run for generations, still using clay ovens and bottling by hand… others by George Clooney. 

ATHENS AND GREEK ISLANDS
words by PHOEBE GIBSON-DOUGALL

images via lonelyplanet.com, fourseasons.com, courtesy of MAREK BARTEK

Athens seems to be as old as time itself, a place so steeped in history it seems almost mythic itself. Whilst every corner of Greece seems to invite exploration, the Greek capital is a must-see for any visitor to the country. Every inch of the city forms part of a rich cultural tapestry, from ancient offerings—the Acropolis, Parthenon, or Agora—to more contemporary sights like the National Museum of Contemporary Art.

Athens is also the ultimate springboard from which to explore the country’s many islands, popular spots such as Milos, Hydra, and Spetses are easily accessible from the capital and are ideal locations for an Aegean escape. For the ultimate Athens Riviera experience, The Four Seasons Astir Palace is unbeatable. Located just 30 minutes outside the city, expect sun-soaked taverna dining and heartfelt Greek hospitality at this luxurious Vouliagmeni hideaway.

LAKE COMO
words by ELIANA CASA

images courtesy of passalacqua.it

Whether you’re daydreaming of George Clooney’s lakeside villa, reliving the romance of John Legend and Chrissy Teigen’s wedding, or slipping back in time to Sergio Leone’s Once Upon a Time in America (1984), Lake Como feels like the answer to every fantasy.

Home to some of the world’s most recognisable names, like Madonna, Richard Branson, Sylvester Stallone, Gianni Versace - you really don’t need to be a star to enjoy the lake’s glacial waters and botanical gardens. But if you do want to channel a true Italian diva as your next year’s resolution - and we’re talking Mina-level - this destination offers a cinematic stage like no other. A floating swimming pool suspended over the water is not a product of imagination here, but a reality, most famously at the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, one of the world’s most exclusive hotels and a former getaway of Old Hollywood legends, including Elizabeth Taylor, Alfred Hitchcock, and Frank Sinatra. Even the most discerning Southern Italian, myself included, with uncompromising culinary standards, will find little to fault. Picture plates of handmade pasta finished with Alpine butter and sage, risottos enriched with local cheeses, and long, indulgent lunches that transform into an aperitivo.

Framed by the dramatic Alps, Lake Como is postcard-perfect in the most intentional way, made for writing to a forgotten lover or a new one, with a glass of wine in hand, gelato melting slowly, and a dramatic sunrise in the background.

ROVINJ
words by PHOEBE GIBSON-DOUGALL

images via maistra.com

Split and Dubrovnik get all the hype, but if you’re willing to travel slightly further afield, Croatia has plenty more to offer. The fishing port of Rovinj, located on the Istrian peninsula in the country’s north, is a hidden coastal charm brimming with iconic landmarks and seaside delights. Sometimes called “Little Venice”, there’s an eclectic mix of architectural styles on display, from obvious Venetian influences to Renaissance and baroque accents.

The city’s Church of Euphemia towers over the cobbled streets, and the cerulean waters of the Adriatic Sea are oh-so inviting. Just off the coast, the Rovinj archipelago offers a wealth of day-trip options, and if you’re into a spot of skinny-dipping, there’s beaches allowing that too! The Grand Park Hotel Rovinj provides the perfect base, a relaxing haven nestled amongst pine forests that overlooks the Rovinj Old Town. It’s also an ideal location to savour some local fare, as the hotel has got multiple Michelin-star restaurants.

MALDIVES
words by VERONICA TLAPANCO SZABÓ

images via soneva.com

I imagine myself here with a Leonora Carrington novel in hand, letting her surreal worlds settle my thoughts as the island does the rest. To be honest if escapism had an architectural blueprint, I would imagine it to look exactly like Soneva Fushi. The Maldives’ original “No News, No Shoes” haven tucked inside the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is dreamy beyond words from the lush greenery to the water so blue that you could easily spot a diamond earring at the bottom if you looked closely enough. Here, days drift between a morning cycle along sandy paths and evening hours spent in the island’s open-air observatory tracing constellations.

Once you’ve made your way over here I would make sure not to miss out on the fourteen dining options, Japanese Peruvian pairings one night, wood-fired dishes the next. Personally, I’d disappear underwater with manta rays and turtles on one of the diving expeditions, resurfacing only for a Cinema Paradiso screening, unfolding as the sun sets and the sea sways.

MADRID
words by MAREK BARTEK

images via traveloffpath.com, instagram @1862drybar, elconfidencial.com, transfersandexperiences.com, timeout.com, cntraveler.com, mandarinoriental.com

“¿Dónde está la biblioteca?” might be the peak of my Spanish, but that would never stop me from going back to Spain. The food, the people, the nature, the culture — I could go on but I think we all know enough about Spain to know why it’s a great place. This year, though, I’d like to switch beloved Barcelona for Madrid, and discover a new city. My first steps would naturally lead to the Biblioteca Nacional de España, followed by sipping some wine at Plaza Mayor, and an evening spent at Teatro Real. 

Art and Spain are a match made in heaven, and so among the stops would definitely be the Museo del Prado exhibition of the likes of Velázquez, Goya or Rubens; people say to go early. Reina Sofía has Picasso’s Guernica, which alone is enough reason to go, and Thyssen-Bornemisza, among others, houses artists like El Greco, Degas or Dalí. Together these galleries create the so-called Golden Triangle of Art — and where better to stay than right in the middle of it at Mandarin Oriental Ritz. 

And of course, it would feel like a cardinal sin to come to Madrid and not experience the bars, food and pretty neighbourhoods. Simply walking around Madrid was among the highly-recommended activities, so if your legs get sore, it’s good to know where to rest. Salmon Guru, Angelita, Devil’s Cut, 1862 Dry Bar and Café Pavón are just a tip of the iceberg, and definitely worth walking into.