New and Hot in Travel for 2026
Written on January 22, 2026
It’s a new year, and we love the excitement that comes with a brand-new calendar and a fresh start! Thinking about the goals and plans for the year ahead is an important task at Encompass the World, and there truly is so much to look forward to in the coming months. (And we know many of you are already looking forward to a trip we have booked together!)
As you start penciling in family activities and commitments throughout the year, you should start thinking about your vacation plans. Where do you want to go in 2026?
Here’s a look at what will be new and hot this year for both land and sea, along with some anticipated travel trends.
All-Inclusive Resorts
Moon Palace the Grand Punta Cana (spring)
Devotees of family-favorite Moon Palace the Grand Cancun might find themselves drawn to a new destination in 2026 when the resort’s bigger, bolder sister property debuts in the Dominican Republic. Amenities galore will keep everyone having fun in (and out of!) the sun. The Playroom Kids Club promises fun for children of all ages, featuring a variety of arcade and table sports games, a mini movie theater, and even an aerial challenge course. Among the resort’s numerous dining options, Wonderwoods particularly stands out with its enchanting magical forest theme. When adults need to escape from the endless fun, Unique Day Club offers a quiet adult-only oasis. There is so much to see and do, the only challenge will be trying it all before vacation comes to an end.
Secrets Macao Beach Punta Cana (sometime in 2026)
Adults-only Secrets Macao Beach will join its family-friendly counterpart, Dreams Macao Beach, in the Dominican Republic this year. The resort will feature nine restaurants and nine bars, including a farm-to-table dining experience tucked into an on-site garden and an exclusive Preferred Club venue. Three pools are available for cooling off, and Preferred Club guests will also have access to an exclusive rooftop pool with ocean views. Guests can visit Dreams next door to enjoy additional amenities.
Royalton Vessence Barbados – An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort (summer)
Royalton Vessence Barbados welcomes guests this year, catering to adult travelers who seek a sophisticated and relaxing environment with special touches throughout that create unique vacation memories. An open-air creative studio provides the backdrop for pottery, painting, and culinary workshops during the day and for live musical performances by night. Yoga, tai chi, expressive movement classes, and non-motorized watersports round out the activities. A fun twist on a trip souvenir, guests will return home with a white canvas beach tote that has been painted by a local artist.
Cruise Ships
Disney Adventure – Disney Cruise Line (spring)
With seven themed areas, passengers are sure to see their favorite films represented, from Marvel hits to heartwarming Pixar flicks, to classic Disney animated masterpieces. New shows (Duffy and Friends, Captain Jack Sparrow & the Siren Queen), a Marvel style studio experience to become a favorite character, and the cruise line’s first roller coaster at sea (with other amusement park-style rides) await.
Legend of the Seas – Royal Caribbean (summer)
Legend of the Seas lives up to its name with on-board experiences that will live in your heart and mind long after you return home. This ship features the largest waterpark at sea, 28 dining experiences, seven swimming pools, and a new Broadway show that promises a vacation full of fun…and this is in addition to the Royal Caribbean cruise amenities you love across the fleet.
Norwegian Luna – Norwegian Cruise Line (spring)
The newest ship in the Prima Class features the beloved Ocean Boulevard (a ¼ mile promenade that houses bars, restaurants, and activities in an open-air setting), a spectacular new toe-tapping show, ELTON: A Celebration of Elton John™, and the line’s newest dining venues, Planterie (plant-based cuisine) and Sukhothai (Thai cuisine). Make sure to check out the eye-catching art of the ship’s hull by artist, ELLE.
Anticipated Travel Trends for 2026
Luxury: Travelers are looking for less of the “same old, same old” and crave personalized, meaningful experiences that go beyond simple vacation upgrades. The concept of luxury has evolved to include immersive and authentic excursions and activities, upscale dining that celebrates local cuisine, and indulgent amenities. These are not “cookie cutter” vacations – they are thoughtfully crafted, incredibly customized trips.
Active and adventure: For those looking to do something a little bit different during their vacations, immersive physical and nature-based experiences that go beyond basic sightseeing are very appealing. (Think soft adventure combined with unique accommodations that embrace the destination and its surroundings while incorporating it into the experience.)
Soft adventure (n): adventure tourism that requires little experience and is low risk
Group travel: Smaller, tailored groups for both general travel or niche experiences are becoming increasingly popular and are expecting to grow more in the coming year. These specialized itineraries could include a focus on wellness, adventure, or culinary arts, for example.
Whether you’re ready to return to a favorite resort or explore a new ship with your first mate, we are here to turn dreams and trends into a vacation on your 2026 travel calendar.
