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At Willamette International Travel, we believe that every journey should be more than a trip; it should be a story you’ll tell again and again. Our advisors travel deeply, talk with locals, and come home inspired by how people around the world live, celebrate, and connect. As we look ahead to 2026, travel is evolving in exciting ways and we’re here to help you experience it fully.
Here are the 2026 travel trends catching our attention and our clients’ imaginations as we plan adventures in the year ahead.
Fan Voyage: See the World Through Local Passion
More travelers are planning trips around moments that matter most to them, and sports are now at the forefront. Attending local sporting events has become one of the most authentic ways to connect with a destination’s heartbeat.
More than half of travelers say they’re likely to attend a local sporting event while traveling. Whether it’s the electrifying intensity of sumo wrestling in Japan or the joyful competitiveness of Banana Ball in Savannah, Georgia, these moments offer an authentic window into local life.
How We Make It Even Better:
- Securing hard-to-get tickets and preferred seating through trusted partners
- Building trips around event schedules so nothing feels rushed or missed
- Advising on etiquette and local customs so you feel like a welcome guest, not a tourist
Salvaged Stays: Sleep in a Story
One of the most captivating hotel trends for 2026 is the rise of Salvaged Stays: historic structures thoughtfully transformed into stunning accommodations.
Imagine sleeping in a centuries-old abbey in France, a former schoolhouse in Kyoto, or a beautifully restored train station in Nashville. These properties don’t just offer a place to sleep; they tell a story.
Travelers are increasingly drawn to hotels that celebrate craftsmanship, preservation, and place — proving that restoration can be just as luxurious as innovation.
How We Make It Even Better:
- Vetting unique historic properties for comfort, authenticity, and service standards
- Matching the right stay to your travel style (romantic, cultural, family-friendly, or indulgent)
- Providing context and history so your stay feels meaningful, not just memorable
Farm Charm: A Slower Pace, A Deeper Connection
The pace of modern life has many of us craving meaningful rest. Farm stays, whether in rolling countryside, vineyard valleys, or quiet woodlands, offer exactly that: space to breathe, time to connect, and experiences shaped by nature.
Guests enjoy hands-on moments like collecting eggs at sunrise, meeting animals, or simply walking fields of wildflowers. These aren’t just vacations; they are restorative experiences that let you return home changed.
How We Make It Even Better:
- Selecting authentic locations that balance rustic charm with comfort
- Ensuring activities align with your interests, whether hands-on or purely restorative
- Handling logistics so remote locations feel peaceful
Set-Jetting: Bring Your Favorite Stories to Life
Travel inspired by movies and television continues to gain momentum, and by 2026 it’s expected to be a multi-billion-dollar industry in the U.S. alone.
Travelers increasingly want to walk the streets they’ve seen on screen, sip coffee where characters once did, or explore landscapes that stirred their imagination.
Imagine wandering through New Zealand’s rolling landscapes, where Middle-earth feels just within reach, strolling Parisian streets that feel straight out of Emily in Paris, or tracing the epic path of the Stark family from Game of Thrones across Iceland and Croatia. In 2026, travel is about stepping into stories that linger long after the credits roll.
How We Make It Even Better:
- Designing itineraries that connect filming locations logically and comfortably
- Balancing screen-inspired moments with authentic local culture
- Timing visits for the best experience
Readaways: Rest, Read, Repeat
Perhaps one of the most peaceful trends emerging is the Readaway, trips centered around reading, relaxation, and quality time with loved ones.
Book lovers are seeking cozy vacation rentals in serene settings like coastal homes, mountain chalets, and countryside retreats. These trips are designed for slowing down, unplugging, and reconnecting with stories, nature, and each other. As travelers prioritize wellness and intentional downtime, Readaways are becoming the ultimate form of restorative travel.
How We Make It Even Better:
- Recommending tranquil destinations and accommodations that truly support rest
- Coordinating details like private transfers and flexible schedules
- Suggesting optional wellness experiences such as spa treatments, nature walks, or yoga
Trending Destinations & Experiences for 2026
Across the globe, travelers are gravitating toward destinations that blend iconic landmarks with immersive experiences:
- Japan: Mt. Fuji, historic temples, and vibrant cityscapes
- Croatia: National parks, island hopping, and crystal-clear waters
- Morocco: Desert adventures, ancient medinas, and architectural wonders
- South Korea: K-wave cultural experiences and guided city tours
- Antarctica: Once-in-a-lifetime expeditions among icebergs and penguins
Customizing itineraries based on your pace, interests, and comfort level is what we do here at Willamette International Travel. We connect you with expert local guides and trusted on-the-ground partners to help you navigate complex logistics, visas, and special requirements. Our advisors are here to provide advocacy and support before, during, and after your journey!
We love talking through travel ideas and possibilities. Give us a call and bring us in at the very beginning of your plans!
Travel with Intention
The defining theme of 2026 travel is intentionality. Travelers want experiences that feel personal, immersive, and aligned with their values whether that means cheering with locals, restoring their sense of calm, or stepping into the worlds they love from books and screens.
If you’re dreaming about where travel could take you next, now is the time to start imagining (and planning) what’s possible.
Ready to explore what 2026 could look like for you? Contact our excellent travel experts at 503-224-0180 or email inquiry@wittravel.com.
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