Photo: Experience Scottsdale/Jordan Banks/JRNY Magazine
These US Destinations Will Be 2026's Next Luxury Hotspots
You can often spot where travel is headed by watching where luxury travelers are quietly going — those with flexible schedules, big budgets, and custom itineraries.
According to a new report from Classic Vacations, one of North America’s longest-running luxury tour operators, high-end travelers are gravitating toward a mix of classic favorites and fast-rising destinations. While icons like Italy and France still draw strong interest, a new shift is emerging. US destinations are gaining traction for offering what money can buy: privacy, access, and experiences others can’t easily reach.
Here’s where luxury travelers are going next.
N E W S
The World’s Largest Cruise Line Is Finally Sailing to Africa
For the first time ever, Carnival Cruise Line is sailing to Africa, debuting new routes from Barcelona and Rome with stops in Tunis (La Goulette) and Tangier.
T O - D O
FEBRUARY EDITION
Where to travel: Algeria and the Sahara Desert
Where to stay: The world’s most romantic hotels
What we’re loving: Condé Nast’s Where to Travel in 2026, According to Your Sign
Plan ahead: Celebrate Lunar New Year 2026 in San Francisco
O U T D O O R
8 Countries Where In-the-Know Hikers May Be Going in 2026
Based on millions of AllTrails data points, these eight countries are climbing fast on the global hiking radar, signaling where trail lovers may head next.
T R A V E L
This Is the Most Scenic Train Journey in New Zealand
Photo: Great Journeys New Zealand
If you’re already in New Zealand, skip the short flights. The TranzAlpine train delivers one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys, crossing the South Island from coast to coast through the Southern Alps (all with a front-row seat and a far smaller carbon footprint).
S O L O T R A V E L
Why O‘ahu Is a Powerful Place for a First Solo Trip
From cultural experiences to quiet ocean moments, the island shows how solo travel can be less about isolation and more about reflection, grounding, and forward momentum.
D E A L S
HotelTonight’s Best Last-Minute Steals Right Now
Photos: HotelTonight
Our favorite HotelTonight* finds for spontaneous trips:
Travel Well
The Matador Editorial Team
*Here at Matador, we're always looking for the best travel deals. We may receive a commission via affiliate links in this newsletter. Prices and availability can change at any time.