According to a well-informed travel company, 2026 is all about wellness travel and these three locations fit the bill.
21:53 ET, 01 Jan 2026
It’s a new year and people are getting the itch to travel, and according to a new report, there are three top spots people have their eye on.
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The Year in Travel report, conducted by eDreams Odigeo, says Bangkok, Tokyo and Paris are where people want to be in 2026. And that it's more about personal growth and the experience, versus a more traditional vacation.
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The online travel company makes its predictions by using data from millions of searches/bookings.
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In 2025, people were looking at London, Paris and New York City as travel destinations, with the travel company seeing a shift for the coming year with people’s focus on Asia and Europe.
The report goes beyond location and examines the experience, that people are looking for “transformational travel” with trips centered on “learning, growth and connection.
According to Dana Dunne, CEO of eDreams Odigeo, it’s not just about booking a trip for a little bit of a break, it’s more than that.
She said: “Travelers are no longer just booking vacations, they’re curating journeys that reflect their values, passions and desire for personal growth.”
She added: “From tech-enhanced itineraries to wellness retreats and cultural adventures, 2025 marked a turning point for travel defined by meaning, flexibility and self-discovery.”
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2026 is all about wellness travel
Based on Dunne's description of what people are hoping for when visiting a new place, it seems like the three top travel destinations for 2026 fit the bill:
Bangkok
Bangkok made the list due to its blend of affordability, rich culture (temples, food, markets), vibrant modern life, and growing reputation as a digital nomad hub.
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Tokyo
People are keen to visit Tokyo in 2026 due to a mix of new attractions like PokéPark Kanto and Japan's strong appeal as a cultural and modern destination.
Paris
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Paris is known for its vibrant cultural scene, featuring major art exhibitions, music festivals, and diverse culinary experiences, alongside traditional draws like iconic landmarks and romantic ambiance.