Tourists are no longer satisfied with looking at postcard views. They seek experiences that awaken something deep within them; Memories that will remain alive in their minds long after returning home. The data also confirms this big change. According to the latest outlook of the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), travel demand has not only returned to pre-pandemic levels, but is set to surpass it in 2026. This huge leap is due to people’s intense interest in nature tourism, health and deep cultural experiences. The World Travel and Tourism Council also announces the change in travelers’ tastes towards “transformational trips”; Trips aimed at personal growth and reconnecting with the environment. In the following, we review 10 trend trips in 2026. (National Geographic)
Star Safari in Northumberland
After the Corona pandemic, human passion for the night sky has soared and the “Northumberland” region in Great Britain has become the pole of this adventure. At the heart of this experience is the “Kielder” observatory; A special wooden structure in the heart of the forest, which aims to turn complex astronomical concepts into an attractive entertainment for all ages. Hotels in the area even offer rooms with movable ceilings and professional binoculars so that no star is hidden from your eyes.
Photographer: Unknown / bookretreats
Modern Pilgrimage in Portugal
Centuries ago, long walks in Europe were a symbol of religious devotion; But today’s pilgrims take up trekking poles, wear GPS watches, and seek a kind of spiritual salvation and inner peace. The “Rota Vicentina” route in Portugal offers exactly this to tourists. This network of coastal paths connects the pristine beaches and honey-colored rocks of southwestern Portugal. Its most famous part is the “Fisherman’s Path”, which passes through one of the richest coastal ecosystems in Europe.

Photographer: Unknown / National Geographic
Conquest of Slovenia in 6 days
Slovenia is fast becoming the adventure capital of Europe. The smallness of this country is a great advantage; You can spend the morning in the mountains and the evening by the lake. New tours are designed for nature adventurers, cramming the most breathtaking experiences into 6 days, ranging from nature biking or rafting on the Soča River to climbing Triglav, Slovenia’s highest peak.

Photographer: Unknown / National Geographic
Change of mood with mourning journey
They say that time solves problems; But sometimes a change of place works wonders. In recent years, “grief retreats” have sprung up around the world. These places are a safe and compassionate space for those who have lost a loved one and need to process their grief. From the sandy beaches of St Lucia to the olive groves of Greece, these trips combine nature exploration, yoga and therapeutic conversation. Crying in these shelters is not only allowed, but part of the healing process.

Photographer: Unknown / bookretreats
Algae therapy in Brittany, France
Man always takes refuge in the sea for healing; But the “Brittany” region in France claims the title of “the birthplace of modern thalassotherapy”. The first specialized hydrotherapy center was established here at the end of the 19th century, and today the tradition is back with even greater strength. Imagine swimming in warm saltwater pools and being treated with seaweed; While the waves of the Atlantic Ocean are crashing right behind your window. This combination of science and nature removes the fatigue of years of work.

Photographer: Unknown / National Geographic
Football shrines in South America
South America is not only the cradle of football; This is the football of life itself. Watching a game in countries like Argentina, Brazil or Colombia is an experience that has nothing in common with the luxurious and soulless European stadiums. There is pure excitement here. It is a dream to see big games like “Superclásico” between “Boca Juniors” and “River Plate”; But even watching the games of the lower leagues in Buenos Aires can make tourists’ hairs stand on end. The atmosphere of the stadiums is so heavy and attractive that you will not forget it until the end of your life.

Photographer: Unknown / Goal
Paddle game under the scorching Spanish sun
Paddle, this fascinating combination of tennis and squash, has become one of the fastest growing sports in the world. Now imagine combining this exciting sport with the Mediterranean sun. Spanish resorts are now promoting themselves as ‘pedal paradises’. Tourists can exercise during the day and walk on the golden beaches of Valencia in the evening. It’s a full-fledged sports getaway, providing the mobility and enjoyment of a true vacation at the same time.
Photographer: unknown / El Mundo
Triathlon in Lanzarote
Triathlon is no longer a special sport for people with unique abilities; Rather, it has become a global movement. With its Olympic facilities, the island of Lanzarote is the dream of athletes who want to challenge their limits in swimming, cycling and running. The La Sant club on the island, with its 50-meter swimming pools and saltwater lagoon, provides a space where both beginners and professionals can refine their technique under the supervision of the world’s best instructors.

Photographer: Unknown / Club La Santa
Diving with mysterious octopuses in Seattle
Interest in the ocean’s most intelligent creature exploded after the popular Netflix documentary aired. Octopuses are the new stars of the underwater world with their problem-solving and strange shape-shifting powers. In the frigid waters of Seattle, adventurers seek to meet the giant Pacific octopus. Night diving in this area is a rare opportunity to see these octopus creatures in their natural habitat. They are intelligent, curious and strangely similar to us.

Photographer: Unknown / Explore Washington State
Language learning in the heart of Okinawa
According to reports, the market for “language learning trips” will double by 2033. Japan is at the top of this list; But where is learning in the classroom and where is learning in the streets of Okinawa? Language schools in Naha, the tropical capital of Okinawa, throw you into the heart of the local culture. By staying in a native family’s home, eating traditional food and talking to local people, you will learn Japanese not from a book, but from the heart. This is the deepest type of connection a traveler can experience.

Photographer: Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons
Which of these adventures will you choose for next year? Share your experience or dream with us and other Kojaro users in the comments section.
Cover photo source: National Geographic Photographer: Unknown
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