Kyoto & the Setouchi coast
Pair temple mornings and seasonal cuisine in Kyoto with the art islands and gentle sea views of Setouchi. Leave space for an unplanned tea stop.
Good for · spring or autumnTravel with curiosity, not a stopwatch.
The best trips have a little texture: a market at opening time, a meal you cannot quite recreate at home, a view that changes the pace of the whole day.
These 2026 picks span every kind of escape—from quiet temples and island villages to desert history and wild open country. Use them as a starting point, then make the itinerary your own.
Three postcards
to begin with.
Old-world detail, sea-light, and mountain air: the mood of a year made for going farther.
Scenes from Japan, Greece, and Italy
The 2026 edit · 9 destinations
The Cyclades, beyond the postcard
Santorini is magical at dawn, but add Naxos, Paros, or Milos for village tavernas, swimming coves, and slower island days.
Good for · May–June or SeptemberDolomites & South Tyrol
Alpine paths, clear lakes, and a distinct blend of Italian and Austrian food make this a beautiful place to base a walking-focused trip.
Good for · June–OctoberMaasai Mara & Laikipia
Come for the big skies and exceptional wildlife viewing; stay for conservation-minded camps and guides who make the landscape legible.
Good for · July–OctoberPetra, Wadi Rum & the Dead Sea
Jordan layers ancient stone cities, desert silence, and generous hospitality into one deeply memorable route. Give Petra more than one day.
Good for · March–May or October–NovemberMo'orea & the Society Islands
For lagoon days with a quieter rhythm, look beyond the most famous overwater views. Reef-safe habits and local guides make a real difference here.
Good for · May–OctoberFjords & Lofoten
Take the scenic route through fjord country, then head north for fishing villages, long golden evenings, and hikes that begin near sea level.
Good for · June–SeptemberMexico City & Oaxaca
Two creative capitals for design, museums, markets, and some of the world’s most rewarding food. Plan well, then follow your appetite.
Good for · February–April or October–NovemberCape Town & the Winelands
Ocean walks, mountain views, thoughtful museums, and vineyard lunches make Cape Town a richly varied base for a one-week escape.
Good for · November–MarchBefore you book
A great journey starts with a little care.
Book locally where you can, learn a few useful words, and leave more time between places than you think you need. The world is not a race.
Travel smart: Confirm current entry requirements, local guidance, weather conditions, accessibility needs, and transport details with official sources before booking. Respect cultural sites, wildlife, and community rules wherever you go.