The Divine Destination Collection: Hot Luxury Escapes & Travel Trends for 2026
At The Divine Destination Collection, travel is never just about the places we go—it’s about the transformation that unfolds along the way. Our travellers seek more than beauty; they seek meaning, connection, and a sense of wonder that lingers long after they’ve returned home. Each year, we explore the evolving landscape of luxury travel to uncover destinations that speak to the soul and awaken the senses.
As 2026 approaches, luxury travel is evolving beyond traditional five-star accommodations. Today’s discerning travellers are seeking journeys that resonate deeply—experiences that spark curiosity, awaken the senses, and invite meaningful connection with both people and place.
Canadians, in particular, are exploring destinations that inspire wonder, cultivate introspection, and leave unforgettable impressions.
According to Skyscanner, over 70% of Canadian travellers are drawn to mountain escapes, while nearly half have embraced trips inspired by literature, art, or culinary exploration. Simon Mayle of ILTM (International Luxury Travel Market) observes that today’s luxury travellers are seeking experiences that go beyond service, favouring journeys that reconnect them with nature, culture, and themselves.
Georgia Schley Ritchie, founder of The Travel Counsel, notes the rise of “coolcations”—offbeat summer destinations—and a renewed focus on underexplored corners of classic locales. Travelling during the shoulder season—April, May, September—offers serene landscapes, fewer crowds, and an opportunity to savour each moment with intention.
Northern Horizons: Arctic Adventures
Churchill, Manitoba, Canada – Polar bears roam beneath aurora-lit skies, and secluded lodges offer unparalleled views of the tundra’s quiet majesty. Guests slow their pace, embracing a rare sense of solitude and intimacy with nature. Named a Best Place to Visit in 2026 by Travel + Leisure.
Arctic Canada & Greenland – Towering glaciers, luminous fjords, and small-ship expeditions allow travellers to engage with wildlife and pristine landscapes, turning every encounter into a reflection on the planet’s fragile beauty.
Svalbard, Norway – Huskies, glaciers, and endless polar vistas form a playground where adventure and stillness converge. Luxury here is measured in perspective, serenity, and the thrill of untouched landscapes.
Gander & Atlantic Canada – Rugged cliffs, gentle harbours, and storytelling landscapes make this eastern Canadian region an ideal escape for those seeking a blend of heritage, calm, and understated luxury.
Asia: Culture, Rhythm, and Contemplation
Vietnam – From lantern-lit evenings in Hoi An to the tranquil waters of Halong Bay, Vietnam continues to captivate and inspire. A 2026 highlight for discerning travellers according to Lonely Planet, it is a land of contrasts: vibrant yet meditative, ancient yet evolving.
Luang Prabang, Laos – Golden temples line the Mekong, inviting guests into a gentle rhythm of life where calm moments encourage reflection and inner stillness.
Japan (Kyoto & Tokyo) – Modern elegance meets centuries-old tradition. Luxury openings, including Six Senses Kyoto and Janu Tokyo, immerse travellers in thoughtful design, mindfulness, and exceptional hospitality.
Bhutan – Himalayan sanctuaries, Buddhist rituals, and pristine landscapes create journeys that linger long after departure, offering profound moments of introspection and connection.
Southern Europe & Mediterranean Charm
Southern Italy (Puglia & Sicily) – Sunlight spills over olive groves and whitewashed villages. Sicily’s baroque towns and coastal panoramas invite unhurried exploration and culinary indulgence, blending authenticity with refined leisure. Forbes lists Puglia and Sicily among the most soulful escapes for 2026.
Albania – Off-the-beaten-path beaches, Ottoman-era towns, and quiet harbours make Albania a fresh discovery for travellers seeking authenticity.
Dodecanese Archipelago, Greece – Remote coves and intimate villages offer a fresh perspective on Mediterranean life, allowing guests to savour history, sea, and sun in equal measure.
Portugal (Azores & Madeira) – Dramatic cliffs, volcanic lakes, and eco-conscious lodges
Adventure With Intention
Patagonia, Chile & Argentina – Towering glaciers, windswept plains, and eco-lodges provide spaces for awe, reflection, and a deep connection to nature.
Botswana & Namibia – Safaris here combine luxury with purpose, fostering conservation-led interactions with wildlife and local communities.
The Orient Express Corinthian – Launching in 2026, this luxury sailing yacht glides along the French Riviera, propelled by revolutionary wind-power technology. Guests savour curated excursions, opulent suites, and world-class dining as the Mediterranean unfolds beneath them. Each evening offers Champagne, music, and moments of serenity, capturing the timeless elegance of the Orient Express. Condé Nast Traveler
Coolcations & Emerging Gems
Marrakech, Morocco & Singapore – Markets, architecture, and vibrant streetscapes provide sensory delight, thoughtfully curated for discerning travellers.
Iceland & Faroe Islands – Fjords, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes invite guests to reconnect with elemental beauty, solitude, and adventure.
Kaohsiung, Taiwan – A rising coastal destination where modern design, art, and culture create immersive and intimate experiences.
Looking Ahead
Luxury travel in 2026 is defined by curiosity, introspection, and experiences that linger long after the journey ends. From Arctic solitude to Asian cultural immersion, Mediterranean retreats, Canadian escapes, and ocean-borne elegance aboard the Orient Express Corinthian, each journey invites travellers to explore the world with intention and sophistication.
To be among the first to discover our 2026 Collection of curated, immersive journeys, subscribe to our newsletter. Stay inspired, engaged, and first to learn about the extraordinary experiences we will unveil.
