It’s OK to splurge on vacation, but maintaining balance is a good idea.

Hitting the road or catching a flight for summer vacation this year?

If you’re trying to eat healthy, dining while traveling and away from home can derail even the best of intentions. Whether you find yourself famished at the airport or are tempted by fast food joints along the interstate, the challenges are there. What are hungry people – with one eye on their health – to do?

Well, to begin with, keep your perspective. Nutrition doesn’t have to be perfect to be successful. Most of us aren’t going to lose weight while traveling. But we can at least try to keep things balanced. If you feel well, you’ll enjoy your vacation so much more.

8 Tips to eat healthy while traveling

1. Look for healthier options that are popping up in unexpected places.

Convenience foods are quick and easy, they’re cheap and they taste good, so we tend to forget about more nutritious options when we travel. But even convenience stores and airports are starting to offer a wider range of healthy snacks, like yogurt with granola, cheese plates and salads.

2. Stick with regular mealtimes, and fill your plate wisely.

To offset temptation, be mindful of portion sizes, avoid heavy sauces and maintain a normal eating schedule, especially when faced with extensive buffets. Cruise ships have a lot of opportunities for indulgence, but they usually offer healthier options, too, like lean proteins, fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

3. Bring plenty of high-fiber, high-protein snacks.

If you’re heading out on a long road trip, pack a cooler where you can store hard-boiled eggs, yogurt and fresh produce. Eating balanced snacks and avoiding fast-food restaurants on the road can help reduce your sodium intake, similar to cooking at home.

When we bring food, we have the most control. This can keep your blood pressure in check and your heart healthy. If you’re unable to pack your own snacks, look for 5% or less daily value in sodium when reviewing the food labels. This indicates a food is a low source of sodium. When traveling by plane, train or ship, check the TSA website or contact your cruise line to learn which foods you’re allowed to carry on. Bring extra, if possible, so you can avoid vending machines and other temptations at your hotel.

4. Stay hydrated.

Drinking water not only replenishes the fluids in your body, it keeps your skin hydrated, reduces junk-food cravings and helps fend off that bloated feeling from fluid retention. If you use a refillable bottle, you’ll reap all these benefits while also helping the environment.

5. Eat mindfully and savor your food.

One of the best things people can do for themselves is to take time to eat, to sit down and enjoy meals rather than skipping them or eating on the go. Slowing down and eating mindfully allows you to fully enjoy new dishes and local flavors.

6. Choose a special treat once a day, and otherwise opt for healthy foods.

Eating out often feels like a special treat, but when we’re traveling, it becomes an everyday occasion. That means, instead of indulging at every meal, consider eating fiber- and nutrient-rich vegetables and lean proteins at mealtime, and enjoying a special indulgence, like a mouthwatering dessert, once a day.

7. Harness technology to help you find healthy options.

There’s an app for everything — including finding restaurants that serve healthy food. Food Tripping, Happy Cow (HappyCow.net) and Vegan Finder (vegan-finder.com) can help you find fast-food alternatives and restaurants with plant-based options. You can also use filters on sites like Yelp, Door Dash and Grub Hub to find nutritious meals on the road.

8. Fend off jet-lag and travel fatigue by eating foods associated with better sleep.

Reach for foods that contain tryptophan, magnesium, melatonin and other nutrients that may help improve your sleep:

• Poultry, fatty fish like salmon or tuna, and dairy products.
• Almonds, cashews and other nuts.
• Oatmeal, bran flakes, whole grain crackers and other relatively unprocessed carbs.
• Tart Montmorency cherries or tart-cherry juice without added sugar.
• Bananas and kiwis.

Limiting processed or sugary foods and cutting back on caffeine and alcohol can also help ensure you rest easy and wake refreshed.

If you do go a little overboard…

Try to go easy on yourself. Success is all about creating a sense of balance instead of having an all-or-nothing attitude.

Ideas for healthy, portable snacks

• Celery or sliced apples spread with peanut butter (rub lemon juice on apples to prevent browning).
• Fresh fruit (bananas, grapes, strawberries and oranges are easy to carry along).
• Sliced veggies (baby carrots, cauliflower florets, bell peppers and snap peas are easy to eat).
• Single-serving containers of almond butter, hummus or guacamole for dipping.
• Dried fruit, like raisins, cranberries, bananas, apples, apricots.
• Nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, etc.) or homemade trail mix.
• Protein bars, shakes or packets of protein-powder you can mix into water or milk.
• Hard-boiled eggs.
• Plain, low-fat yogurt with granola or fruit.
• Individually-wrapped, low-fat string cheese, cheese sticks or mini-rounds.
• Individual portions of sugar-free applesauce.
• Single-serving envelopes of tuna packed in water.
• Low-sodium turkey jerky or smoked salmon.
• Popcorn (air-popped or a low-fat, low sodium variety containing as few ingredients as possible).

Mainstream is so last season. If you’re over the crowded, tourist traps and looking for untouched landscapes that actually look like the mood board, these eight secret spots are total summer goals.

Azores, Portugal: Volcanic Beauty & Hot Springs

Consider this the “Hawaii of Europe” minus the long lines. With it’s merald craters, steamy thermal pools and serene coastlines it is the ultimate reset for anyone craving a lush, volcanic aesthetic travel destination and major peace.

Ishikawa, Japan: Gardens, Castles & Scenic Terraces

Swap the Tokyo chaos for Ishikawa’s cultural heritage. Between the dreamy Kenrokuen Garden and those Shiroyone Senmatsuda rice terraces, it’s a total vibe for history lovers and anyone chasing that perfect coastal sunset.

Tasmania, Australia: Quiet Beaches & Nature Trails

Tassie is that island of rejuvenation you didn’t know you needed. With pristine wilderness and secret white-sand bays, it’s perfect for hiking, spotting rare wildlife and finally finding some actual solitude.

Laitmawsiang, Meghalaya: Root Bridges & Hidden Wonders

Hidden in the East Khasi Hills, this misty paradise is pure magic. Explore ancient root bridges and cascading waterfalls that feel like a secret garden. It’s nature at its most raw and beautiful.

Finger Lakes, New York: Lakeside Charm & Small-Town Vibes

Ditch the Hamptons for these tranquil waters. We’re talking world class vineyards, gorgeous gorges and the cutest historic streets. It’s the perfect slow-paced lakeside summer for the girlies who love a cosy vineyard tour

Mainpat, Chhattisgarh: Hills & Tibetan Culture Blend

Expect rolling green hills, peaceful monasteries and the mysterious bouncing Ultapani river. It’s an offbeat cultural gem that’s basically a breath of fresh air for your soul.

Gurez Valley, Kashmir: A Pristine Hidden Escape

Gurez is a literal high altitude wonderland. With its turquoise river and log-hut villages, it’s one of the most breathtaking, gatekeep-worthy spots in the Himalayas. It’s basically living in a real life postcard.

Bolivia: From Andes Peaks to Lush Jungles

Bolivia is all about dramatic contrasts. From the jungle vibes of Madidi to the sun-drenched shores of Lake Titicaca, it’s a rugged high-altitude adventure for those who want a summer trip with some edge.

Beyond famous landmarks, World Heritage Day shines a light on hidden cultural treasures worldwide. Here are seven lesser-known UNESCO World Heritage Sites worth adding to your travel itinerary.

Ever wondered how the stories of our past survive the test of time? Observed annually on April 18, the day celebrates human history and promotes the preservation of historical, cultural and natural sites across the world. Established by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) in April 1982 and later adopted by UNESCO in 1983, World Heritage Day draws attention to the challenges facing heritage sites today, including climate change, urban development and conflict.

At its core, heritage refers to places and creations that hold outstanding universal value for humanity. This includes architectural works, monumental sculptures and paintings, archaeological remains, inscriptions, cave dwellings and other cultural features that reflect the evolution of human civilisation, history, art and science. World Heritage Day therefore serves as a reminder of the richness and diversity of global heritage, its vulnerability, and the collective responsibility required to protect and conserve it for future generations.

Theme Of World Heritage Day

Each year, the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) selects a theme to spotlight key issues related to heritage conservation. Past themes have included sustainable tourism (2017), rural landscapes (2019), and heritage in times of change (2023), among others.

For 2026, the theme is “Emergency Response for Living Heritage in Contexts of Conflicts and Disasters.” It focuses on the protection of heritage sites and living traditions during crises such as wars, natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies.

Purpose Of World Heritage Day

World Heritage Day serves as a global call to action to protect both tangible and intangible heritage for future generations. The day is marked by a wide range of initiatives worldwide, including guided tours of monuments and heritage sites, heritage walks, special lectures, conferences, panel discussions and media coverage. In many regions, historical monuments also offer free or special access to encourage public engagement and awareness.

Lesser-Known World Heritage Sites To Add To Your Travel Itinerary

Here are seven fascinating yet relatively unexplored World Heritage Sites that deserve a spot on your next trip.

1. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, USA

Located in the American Southwest, Mesa Verde National Park preserves dramatic canyons, sweeping vistas and ancient cliff dwellings. Once home to the ancestral Pueblo people between AD 450 and 1300, the park protects more than 600 cliff dwellings, including famous sites such as Cliff Palace, Balcony House and Square Tower House. Visitors can explore several dwellings through guided tours or enjoy scenic hikes that offer panoramic views of these archaeological treasures.

2. Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, Madhya Pradesh, India

Among India’s most intriguing yet lesser-known UNESCO sites, the Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka lie about 1.5 hours from Bhopal. The site features prehistoric cave paintings dating back nearly 30,000 years. Spread across seven hills, more than 500 rock shelters showcase vivid depictions of early human life, with some caves displaying just a few artworks while others are completely covered in paintings.

3. Tsodilo Hills, Botswana

Often referred to as the “Louvre of the Desert,” Tsodilo Hills contains more than 4,500 ancient rock paintings spread across just 10 square kilometres. Some artworks are believed to be around 24,000 years old, while archaeological evidence suggests the area has supported human life for over 100,000 years. The hills hold deep spiritual significance for the local San and Hambukushu communities, who consider the site sacred.

4. Historic Centre of Salvador de Bahia, Brazil

Brazil’s first capital, Salvador’s historic centre is known for its colourful colonial buildings, lively public squares and ornate Baroque churches. Beneath its vibrant present, however, lies a painful history tied to the transatlantic slave trade. Once home to the first slave market in the New World, Salvador today proudly celebrates its Afro-Brazilian heritage through traditions such as capoeira, samba-reggae music and flavourful local cuisine.

5. Mogao Caves, China

Also called the “Caves of the Thousand Buddhas,” the Mogao Caves comprise 492 rock-cut caves featuring nearly 45,000 square metres of murals and more than 2,000 painted sculptures. Carved into cliffs above the Dachuan River along the ancient Silk Road, the site represents nearly a thousand years of Buddhist art, spanning the 4th to the 14th century AD.

6. Ayutthaya, Thailand

Situated about an hour north of Bangkok, Ayutthaya offers a glimpse into Thailand’s once-glorious past. Before its destruction by the Burmese army in 1767, the city was a major hub of trade and diplomacy. Today, its majestic ruins-palaces, temples and monasteries-stand as reminders of its historical importance.

7. Old City Of Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

The Old City of Mostar, centred around the iconic Stari Most bridge, reflects a blend of Ottoman, Mediterranean and Western European architectural influences. Originally built in the 15th and 16th centuries, the area symbolises cultural coexistence. After being destroyed during the Bosnian War in the 1990s, the city was carefully rebuilt, preserving its historical character while standing as a symbol of reconciliation.

Each of these heritage sites offers a powerful journey into the past, transporting visitors to ancient times the moment they arrive.

Expedia has revealed its list of top 10 destinations in the world in 2026 where global traveller interest is on an upward surge.

Choosing where to travel is part instinct, part research, and part pure wanderlust. For 2026, trends tracked by Expedia Big Sky are pointing to some truly inspiring corners of the globe.

From sandy beaches and historic towns to mountainous landscapes and cultural gems, these ten destinations are capturing the imagination of travellers seeking fresh experiences, unforgettable scenery, and deeper cultural connections.

10 Destinations in the World in 2026

Below is a guide to the Top 10 Destinations in the World in 2026, why they’re trending, what makes them special, and what you can expect when you go.

1. Big Sky, US

Tucked high in the Rocky Mountains of Montana, Big Sky has surged to number one of Expedia’s Top 10 destinations for 2026, and it’s easy to see why. Once known primarily as a ski town, Big Sky has evolved into a year-round playground for travellers craving space, scenery, and a bit of wilderness luxury. In winter, powder-packed slopes at Big Sky Resort draw serious skiers.

Come summer, hiking trails open up into wildflower meadows, fly-fishing streams, and cinematic mountain views.

What makes Big Sky particularly appealing right now is its balance, as it feels remote and peaceful, yet the dining scene and boutique lodges bring a refined edge. Travellers are seeking wide-open landscapes and cooler climates in 2026, and Big Sky delivers both. It’s not flashy, but that’s the charm. Here, nature is the headline act, and the silence feels almost luxurious.

2. Okinawa, Japan

Japan’s southern jewel, Okinawa, beckons with blue waters, coral reefs, and a pace of life that feels blissfully unhurried compared to the country’s bustling mainland cities.

Powdery beaches and world-class diving make it a natural draw for lovers of sun and sea, while the island’s distinctive Ryukyuan culture, history, and cuisine give it character.

Expect relaxed coastal towns, teppanyaki and fresh seafood markets, ancient castles and a warm welcome that reflects the unique heritage of this subtropical paradise.

3. Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia’s crystalline waters, dramatic cliffs, and hidden coves have always been Mediterranean highlights, but in 2026, the Italian island is capturing widespread attention thanks to its blend of luxury escapes, medieval towns, and untouched hinterland.

From the glamorous Costa Smeralda to quaint interior villages, Sardinia offers a refreshing space away from crowded tourist hotspots, ideal for travellers who love good food, beaches, and Italian hospitality with a slower rhythm.

4. Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Located off the coast of Cambodia but belonging to Vietnam, Phu Quoc is fast becoming one of Southeast Asia’s hottest destination picks. White sands, warm waters, and lush jungle interiors make it a compelling mix of nature and leisure.

Once more off the radar, Phu Quoc is now on the travel map thanks to improved connectivity, luxury resorts, street food culture, and the slow pace of island life that travellers crave after years of pandemic-era pause. It’s ideal for beach lovers, snorkelers, and anyone seeking sun-filled relaxation with a dash of local flavour.

5. Savoie, France

With 51% growth in traveller interest, Savoie in the French Alps is turning heads in 2026. Known for its world-class ski resorts, dramatic mountain vistas, and picturesque villages, Savoie blends outdoor adventure with refined French alpine culture.

Whether it’s skiing and snowboarding in winter or hiking, cycling, and lakeside picnics in summer, the region offers year-round appeal.

Cheese lovers will relish local treasures like Beaufort and raclette, and cosy mountain chalets add to the region’s warm hospitality.

6. Fort Walton Beach, US

Another U.S. destination making waves, Fort Walton Beach offers classic beach town charm on Florida’s Emerald Coast. With gentle waves, pristine sand and family-friendly attractions, it’s ideal for those seeking sun-soaked relaxation without the hustle of large resort towns.

Whether that means building sandcastles by day or watching cotton-candy sunsets by evening, Fort Walton Beach appeals to travellers craving easygoing coastal vibes and affordable holiday experiences.

7. Ucluelet, Canada

On the rugged west coast of Canada’s Vancouver Island, Ucluelet is a nature lover’s dream. Dramatic shorelines, rainforest trails and abundant wildlife make it a favourite for families, photographers and adventure seekers alike.

Known as the “Wild Pacific Trail” destination, Ucluelet combines raw natural beauty with a peaceful village atmosphere. It’s the sort of place where you can watch whales breach offshore one day and stroll moss-covered forest paths the next.

8. Cotswolds, UK

Nothing spells fairytale charm quite like The Cotswolds in the United Kingdom, a patchwork of rolling hills, honey-coloured villages, and pastoral calm. Think thatched roofs, cosy pubs, tea houses, river walks and gardens that seem straight out of storybooks.

In 2026, this region’s appeal is stronger than ever as travellers seek slower-paced, scenic experiences close to nature. It’s a haven for walkers, food lovers and anyone enchanted by quintessential English rural life.

9. San Miguel de Allende, México

Architectural beauty, vibrant arts scenes and deeply rooted cultural traditions have long made San Miguel de Allende a highlight of Mexico’s heartland. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage city that feels alive on every corner — colourful facades, lively markets, street festivals and culinary surprises.

With colonial plazas that beg for exploration, boutique hotels tucked into historic buildings and an intoxicating sense of history, this destination is ideal for lovers of art, history, and immersive travel.

10. Hobart, Australia

Down in Tasmania, Hobart blends historic charm with cool-climate beauty and fresh local flavours. The harbourfront city brims with artsy boutiques, waterfront eateries and weekend markets, and its surrounding landscapes offer hiking, wine tours and mountain-to-sea experiences.

A slower rhythm lives here compared with bigger Australian cities, and in 2026, travellers are increasingly drawn to Hobart’s unpretentious elegance, stunning natural backdrop and creative scene.

Bottom Line

Whether you’re craving classic beach life, dramatic mountain landscapes, quaint old towns or dynamic cultural capitals, 2026’s top travel destinations offer something for every type of explorer.

These places aren’t just trending, they’re calling, each in their own beautiful way. Wherever you choose to go, you’re in for memories that will last long after the trip ends.

Best Destinations in 2026 FAQs

Are these destinations safe to travel to in 2026?
Yes, all ten are generally considered safe for international travellers, though it’s always wise to check local travel advisories before departure.

Which destinations offer the best value for money?
Fort Walton Beach, Ucluelet, and San Miguel de Allende often present great value, while historic or off-peak seasons in places like Savoie and Hobart can be more affordable.

Which of these destinations is best for a first-time international traveller?

Classic choices like The Cotswolds, Big Sky, and Okinawa tend to be very accessible for first-timers thanks to well-developed services and English-friendly environments.