Tag: luxury cruises

At the end of each year, I skip resolutions and instead make a list of places I aspire to visit. In 2026, my sights are set on checking off all 50 U.S. states — I have six more to go — and adding to my roster of more than 50 countries visited.

The upcoming year is a big year for America, as we celebrate the most important milestone in our country’s history — 250 years of American Independence on July 4, 2026. FIFA World Cup mania will also sweep through the U.S., Canada and Mexico from June to July, so I’d love to be part of the soccer excitement. There are also new hotels and a super-luxe hotel branded yacht that I’m excited about, and under-the-radar destinations to discover.

Celebrate America’s Birthday in South Dakota

It’s kind of a big deal that America will celebrate its 250th anniversary of independence on July 4, 2026. Since South Dakota is one of my final few U.S. states to see and experience, it feels right to celebrate our nation’s birthday at the iconic landmark, Mount Rushmore. Expect grand fanfare and a major fireworks display on July 3, 2026.

Interestingly, outside a special fireworks show during the 2020 pandemic, there hasn’t been a fireworks display at the landmark since 2009 — and the governor promises that this year’s sparkling showcase will make for the “biggest birthday party ever.” Plus, there are otherworldly landscapes like the Badlands National Park to explore, and scenic drives to spot wildlife like bison. While I’ve put off visiting South Dakota for other more popular destinations, I have a feeling it will be one of my most memorable states thanks to its rich Americana history and wild landscapes.

Join The FIFA Action in Mexico City

If you want to be part of the FIFA frenzy, take your pick from 16 host cities across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. With 11 host cities in the U.S., you can easily pair a tournament match with exploration in top destinations like Miami, Boston, Dallas, Philadelphia, and Seattle. For me, however, any excuse to experience Mexico City’s rich culture and heritage is a “yes.” The soccer tournament’s opening game — the first of 104 matches — will take place in Mexico City on June 11, 2026. I’m looking to stay at Soho House Mexico City, a 1940s manse in Colonia Juárez with 26 bedrooms, lush gardens, a pool, and spaces filled with Mexican art and shaded courtyards.

It’s a 10- to 15-minute walk or a quick ride-share to the trendy Roma Norte and Condesa neighborhoods, making it easy to explore some of Mexico City’s best shops, cafés, bars, and markets. If I don’t make it to FIFA, my back-up is The Standard, Mexico City which also opens later in 2026 in the historic Tabacalera neighborhood. It’ll have all the things I love about the standard hotels, like a Turkish hammam and water features.

Find Tropical Bliss In Barbados

Living in South Florida, I’m blessed to be a quick hop away from some of the best Caribbean islands. The one that always seems to escape me is Barbados, but I’ve designated 2026 as the year to go (especially with direct flights from the U.S. — including a nonstop from Miami to Bridgetown). American Airlines currently offers direct service between Miami and Grantley Adams International Airport, making it easier than ever to reach the island. There are also direct flights between Barbados and New York and Charlotte. As of May 2025, there are new non-stop Delta flights from Atlanta to Barbados’ Grantley Adams International Airport. When it comes to choosing a stay, I have my eye on O2 Beach Club & Spa, a luxury boutique all-inclusive resort with rooftop infinity pools, killer ocean views, and award-winning Acqua Spa.

And if “noctourism” is on your 2026 radar, the resort’s resident cosmologist leads evening programs where he schools guests on the night sky and offers a closer look through his telescope. Plan a visit around main events like the celebrated regatta, Barbados Sailing Week (BSW) from January 15-22, 2026, and the Barbados Food & Rum Festival in the fall.

Discover Slow Travel In Under-The-Radar Slovenia

Been everywhere? Compared to neighboring Italy, Austria, and Croatia — all of which I’ve visited — Slovenia remains refreshingly under the radar. You’ll find postcard-perfect landscapes without all the tourists, making it ideal for slow travel and deeper cultural immersion. Slovenia is also compact, yet diverse in scenery, so you can swim in the Adriatic Sea, sip wine in vineyards or hike the Julian Alps.

A top cultural event in 2026 to put on your radar: the medieval town of Škofja Loka transforms into an open-air stage for the Škofja Loka Passion Play (March 21-April 19, 2026), a UNESCO-inscribed roving performance that involves more than a thousand locals. Slovenia also boasts new properties that blend nature, history, and design, from the Kneipp-inspired NaturHotel Snovik, to Slovenia’s first hotel designed exclusively for families in Olimje, opening in May 2026.

Sail Away with Four Seasons Yachts

I’m more of a hotel lover than a cruiser, but these days I can have the best of both worlds (for a big splurge, of course). The posh Ritz-Carlton brand set the on-the-sea trend with the first branded yacht collection, and now it’s Four Seasons’ turn. Four Seasons Yachts will debut its first-ever, ultra-luxurious Yacht I in March 2026. The yacht will accommodate 180 guests across 95 suites and venture through the Caribbean, the Bahamas, and the Mediterranean. They’re touting perks like nearly as many crew members as passengers for stellar service, 11 different food and drink venues, a spa area, a large pool deck, and suites so posh you’ll never want to leave.

This story was originally published December 22, 2025 at 1:36 PM.