Credit card titan American Express (Amex) just published its annual roundup of the biggest trending destinations for 2026, with some pleasant surprises. The list is based on Amex members’ travel bookings. Moreover, the list is supported by qualitative data indicating how survey respondents feel about their travels.
The upcoming year will see journeyers relishing the idea of finding somewhere new. A reported 89% of participants revealed they were more excited about going abroad when a new destination was in their sights.
In no particular order of merit, the following locations are just some garnering the most intrigue across the world with Amex travelers. Will you be joining them?
Papagayo Peninsula, Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a popular retreat with Americans, especially those in the older demographics. This tropical paradise needs little introduction, and it continues to lead the way in ecotourism and preservation of its natural wonders.
There’s little wonder that Costa Ricans often live well into their ’80s; who would want to leave all this beauty behind? This trending destination is a perfect choice for wildlife fans, beach disciples, and surf lovers.
Himalayas, India
“But darling, the Alps are just so 2025,” is presumably something heard in certain vacation-planning discussions. Having so many mountain ranges from which to choose can be a blessing or a frustration. Therefore, it might be time to visit the world’s youngest mountain range, the Himalayas.
Much of the southern portion of this stratosphere-scratching mountain range sits in Northern India. Think silent Buddhist monasteries, sweeping glacial valleys, and scenic train rides to colonial tea plantations. Local platform Authentic Indian Tours lists five reasons to see for yourself, including rare wildlife and nature, ancient hilltop temples, and rich history.
St. Julian’s, Malta
From a satellite angle, Malta is a mere speck in the South Mediterranean Sea between Sicily and Tunisia. Nevertheless, this tiny Mediterranean island punches well above its weight as a tourist location. Travel platform Hand Luggage Only champions Malta’s many UNESCO World Heritage sites, clear turquoise bays, and eminent basilicas.
Malta has been a bone of military contention from the ancient Phoenicians to the modern-day British. This cultural backbone means the country’s historical sites match its excellent weather and dynamic food culture. Calm Mediterranean waters, beachside tavernas, and whitewashed villages are the norm. Most importantly, a laid-back, romantic atmosphere makes Malta well worth the journey.
Killarney, Ireland
Something is alluring about the furthest western outpost of Europe. Sadly, many of Ireland’s visitors miss it, opting to stay closer to the capital, Dublin. However, 2026 looks to be one for the western outreaches of the Emerald Isle.
Killarney National Park is just one part of the Ring of Kerry, a circular loop taking in the best of this region. Expectations of misty Irish lochs, green meadows, and rugged mountain valleys would not be wide of the mark. This region’s mystical beauty provides a thrilling backdrop for a quintessentially Irish experience.
Marbella, Spain
Spain is one of the world’s hottest countries right now, figuratively and literally. The economy is growing faster than all its E.U. contemporaries. Furthermore, many Americans are relocating there for the lifestyle, food, and weather, according to Esme Fox of The Local.
Next year, many will be getting a taste of Marbella, one of the more affluent cities on Andalusia’s Costa del Sol. Sleepy whitewashed villages, lazy seafood lunches, and sunset beach strolls are just some of the draws in this Spanish region. Then there are the golf courses. Lots of them. Everywhere.
Marrakech, Morocco
A short hop across the Alboran Sea finds Morocco, Spain’s second-nearest neighbor after Portugal. While the Iberian partners share many similar traits, Morocco’s Arabic gateway to North Africa is completely different.
There are many somewhat cliched traditions one has to experience in Marrakech, not least its famous bazaars, markets, and souks. Yet, there are dozens of off-the-map experiences to sample, like hot-air balloon rides, cycling tours, or luxury spa retreats. Marrakech has a majestic Atlas Mountain backdrop and an incredible history, making it a worthy choice this coming season.
Panama City, Panama
This modern capital in Central Latin America owes much of its wealth to the Panama Canal. This vital commercial channel has made Panama one of the economic outliers in the region. Subsequently, Panama City is popular with expat retirees and holidaymakers, who like the laid-back, vibrant culture.
“Panama City is the only capital in the world with a tropical rainforest, two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the Panama Canal,” reads the city’s webpage. What’s not to love about that?
Okinawa, Japan
Like many countries, Japan may suffer from the “capital city” curse, whereby visitors don’t leave Tokyo. The ones who brave the outer regions of Japan will find absolute diamonds like Okinawa, Japan’s tropical archipelago in the far south.
Okinawa’s climate, atmosphere, and strong U.S. naval presence mean it has a “Hawaii of Japan” moniker attached. However, in reality, it’s just a stunning Japanese region with clear waters, year-long warm weather, and the longest-living people on Earth. Okinawa’s nutritious “Blue Zone” diet, plentiful sunshine, and endless outdoor activities make it a place you will find hard to leave.
Ben is a lifestyle, travel, news, and features writer with bylines for dozens of publications, and he has bylines across many online platforms.
Raised in England and with a career background in international education, he now lives in Southern Spain with his wife and son. Ben has lived on four continents, including Africa, Asia, and North America, and he has worked diverse jobs, ranging from traveling film projectionist to landscape gardener.
He offers a unique, well-traveled perspective on life, with several specialties related to his travels, namely, international living and culture. Ben loves writing about travel, food, news, and trending cultural topics, among many others.
When he isn't writing, you will find him hiking with his family or on the nearest golf course looking for his golf ball.
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves is a Travel Journalist, Yahoo! Creator, MSN Partner, Society of American Travel Writers and North American Travel Journalists Association member, and the founder of Wander Worthy. She covers vacation destinations, travel news, and tourism trends.
