WHERE TO TRAVEL IN 2026: THE METTA EDIT
- METTA Management
- 6 days ago
- 12 min read
2026 marks a new chapter in considered travel, a return to journeys that balance culture and purpose. This new era isn’t about ticking destinations off a list, but about finding places that move you and stir emotion. Plus, of course, the allure of stepping inside newly launched or thoughtfully refreshed hotels, something that we’ll never tire of.
At METTA, our approach to curation is simple: we look for places that offer more than a stay; they offer a feeling. Over the past 12 months, we’ve sought out destinations and hotels that capture the spirit of 2026: thoughtful luxury, exceptional hospitality and experiences rooted in authenticity.
This year’s selection reflects that philosophy. From tranquil cultural capitals to remote island hideaways, each destination has earned its place for a reason. Below, you’ll find our definitive guide to where to travel in 2026, along with the stays that elevate each destination, from inspired new openings to thoughtfully refreshed icons.
1. MALLORCA, SPAIN
Mallorca has always been synonymous with sun-drenched beaches and balmy Mediterranean evenings, but 2026 marks a new chapter for this popular Balearic spot, a time when the island’s charm is no longer confined to the summer months. Today, Mallorca offers a sophisticated, year-round destination where culture, cuisine, and hidden coves converge in perfect balance. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing retreat or an active adventure, the island’s evolution from a seasonal getaway to a year-round destination is unmistakable.
The first thing to notice is how Mallorca has refined its culinary landscape. Once famous primarily for its seaside tapas, the island now boasts a roster of world-class restaurants where creativity and local tradition meet. From Michelin-starred fine dining in Palma to intimate family-run eateries tucked away in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, every meal is an opportunity to savour Mallorca’s flavours at their very best. Farm-to-table initiatives and boutique wineries have also flourished, offering a taste of the island’s agricultural richness alongside its iconic seafood and artisan pastries.
But Mallorca’s appeal extends far beyond gastronomy. Golfers will find championship courses set against dramatic landscapes, while sailing enthusiasts can explore hidden coves and turquoise waters along the coastline. For those who prefer to stay on dry land, the island’s scenic hiking trails and cycling routes offer glimpses of olive groves, terraced vineyards, and historic fincas that have shaped Mallorca’s character over centuries.
When is the best time to visit Mallorca?
The ideal time to visit Mallorca depends on what you’re after from your trip. May to September is perfect for swimming, sailing, and relaxing under the balmy Mallorcan sun. For a balance of warm weather, fewer crowds, and long daylight hours, May, June, or September are particularly welcoming, avoiding the intense heat of July and August. Spring and autumn offer a quieter escape and mild temperatures, perfect for exploring on foot or by bike, while savouring the island’s Michelin-worthy dining and local villages.
Opening its doors in 2026, the Mandarin Oriental, Mallorca sets a new standard for luxury on the island. Perched along the coast with sweeping sea views, this property blends understated elegance with contemporary design, an escape for discerning travellers. Guests can expect to be taken on a world-class dining journey, indulge in rejuvenating spa experiences, and relax in meticulously designed rooms and suites that reflect the island’s natural beauty while embracing its vibrant atmosphere.
2. LONDON, UK
London has always been a city of reinvention, and as we step into 2026, it finds itself in the midst of a new cultural moment, one that’s distinctly transatlantic in flavour. The capital has long been admired for its blend of heritage with modern design, but this new era feels different. The energy in Mayfair, Marylebone, and St. James’s is shifting; a wave of New York icons is crossing the Atlantic, drawn by London’s renewed appetite for glamour and experience-led dining.
The arrival of Carbone, Masa, and Polo Bar marks a return to opulence, not excess, but refinement with confidence. The fusion of London’s character with New York’s charisma has created a new kind of city, one where the private members’ club scene hums alongside experimental art galleries and quietly luxurious hotels. For travellers, this means a city that rewards both spontaneity and sophistication, a destination where every stay feels distinctly personal, yet part of something larger unfolding across global culture.
What makes London in 2026 especially compelling is its balance. The city continues to honour its traditions, the afternoon tea rituals, the leafy parks, the grandeur of its Georgian squares, while its creative class redefines what luxury means in the modern age. Michelin stars now sit beside sustainability accolades, and restored landmarks have become stages for design-forward living.
For those returning to the city or discovering it anew, London’s appeal lies in this duality: timeless yet ever-evolving, classic yet current.
When is the best time to visit London?
London really can be visited all year round; it’s the kind of city that reinvents itself with the seasons. Spring sees the parks awaken in pastel shades, with magnolias blooming across Notting Hill and picnics returning to Hyde Park. Summer brings a certain lightness; evenings stretch long over riverside terraces and open-air theatres hum with life. Autumn, arguably London at its most cinematic, cloaks the streets in gold and fills galleries with new exhibitions. Even winter has its charm, with festive markets, candlelit pubs, and a skyline glittering under the glow of Christmas lights. London really is a dream all year round.
Where to stay in London: The Chancery, Rosewood London
At the heart of this renewal stands The Chancery, Rosewood London, a landmark reborn in 2025 within the walls of the former U.S. Embassy on Grosvenor Square.
The transformation is both architectural and symbolic, an ode to diplomacy, design, and discretion. This all-suite hotel reflects the grandeur of the building’s history while embracing the intimacy of modern living. It’s not just a hotel; it’s a statement of London’s new identity, one that bridges continents and celebrates the art of considered luxury.
Guests booking through METTA Management enjoy a selection of added benefits, making a stay here even more rewarding.
3. NAMIBIA, AFRICA
For travellers seeking something quieter and more cinematic, Namibia offers one of Africa’s most authentic escapes. Where other destinations invite you to observe, Namibia invites you to feel: the stillness at dawn, the shifting light across the dunes, the rush as an animal walks by.
Unlike the busy safari circuits of East Africa, Namibia moves at its own pace. Game drives are unhurried, wildlife encounters feel personal, and the landscape, from the salt pans of Etosha to the ochre valleys of Damaraland, is both raw and refined. Elusive black rhinos can be spotted in places like the Grootberg mountains, but hopes are high that travelers will begin seeing white rhinos in such places as Etosha National Park more commonly.
When is the best time to visit Namibia?
Namibia’s wildlife is unmatched, so there’s a high chance that you will be visiting with the intention of viewing some. With this in mind, the dry season, from May to October, is particularly special. During these months, animals gather around waterholes, making game drives more rewarding and photographic opportunities even better. The days are warm and sunny, while the nights are crisp and clear, perfect for stargazing in the desert’s vast, unpolluted skies.
Where to stay in Namibia: Zannier Omaanda
Zannier Omaanda sits on a 22,000-acre private reserve outside Windhoek, where quiet luxury meets raw Namibian wilderness.
Its fifteen thatched villas draw inspiration from traditional Owambo architecture. Inside, natural textures and neutral tones create calm, open spaces designed for reflection after days spent in search of animal sightings. Days unfold at nature’s pace, morning game drives, desert walks, stargazing under vast skies, with every detail grounded in sustainability and local connection.
Conservation is central here, with protected wildlife roaming freely. For those who value stillness and authenticity.
4. SEYCHELLES
For those in search of pure escapism, the Seychelles continues to reign as one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations.
The Seychelles is a nation of 115 islands scattered over 400,000sq km of the Indian Ocean, a few degrees south of the equator. Scattered across the Indian Ocean, its islands embody the idea of retreat in its truest form, not just distance from the everyday, but a complete recalibration of pace and perspective.
In 2026, the Seychelles continues to grow in appeal, not only as a natural extension to a safari in Kenya or Tanzania but as a standalone destination in its own right. Just a short flight from East Africa, the islands offer the perfect antidote to city life, a place where protected marine parks, unspoilt beaches and a year-round tropical climate invite complete relaxation. Whether added to a safari itinerary or explored independently, the Seychelles promises an unforgettable experience where days unfold slowly: mornings spent swimming in turquoise coves, afternoons walking among ancient granite boulders, evenings dining barefoot under starlit skies. A trip that promises no rush and no noise.
What sets the Seychelles apart is how it makes you feel. It doesn’t try to impress; it simply exists in perfect balance, wild yet sophisticated, remote yet remarkably connected to its culture and environment. For those who crave disconnection from modern life without sacrificing comfort, this archipelago offers a sense of sanctuary that feels increasingly rare in the world.
When is the best time to visit the Seychelles?
The best time to visit the Seychelles is during the shoulder seasons, including April, May, October, and November. The temperatures in the Seychelles during these months are milder, with warmer winds and higher temperatures. There are fewer crowds during these transitional periods, meaning visitors can experience the islands’ beaches and trails in a peaceful setting.
If scuba diving is your thing, then the shoulder seasons are the peak time to explore the underwater world, with calmer seas and exceptional visibility revealing coral gardens, reef sharks, and sea turtles in all their glory.
Where to stay in Seychelles: Fregate Island
Reopening in 2026 after a complete transformation, Fregate Island redefines what it means to experience a private island. Home to just a handful of villas hidden among tropical forest, it embodies absolute privacy and ecological integrity.
Guests arrive not just to stay, but to belong, if only briefly, to one of the world’s most untouched landscapes. With sustainability at its core and nature as its luxury, Fregate stands as the ultimate expression of renewal and retreat.
A spot should take centre stage on your 2026 travel list.
5. BANGOKOK, THAILANDA
Bangkok has always been a city of contrasts, calming temples standing beside gleaming skyscrapers, longtail boats gliding past rooftop bars and a certain type of chaos that can only be found in a city in Asia. But as we step into 2026, Thailand’s capital is entering a new era, one that celebrates balance over bustle. Beneath the city’s electric energy, a quieter rhythm is emerging, shaped by creativity, wellness, and design that welcomes a new age of travellers.
In 2026, Bangkok’s cultural scene is flourishing. Once known mainly for its street food and nightlife, the city now rivals the world’s great creative capitals. Contemporary art galleries have taken root in converted warehouses along the Chao Phraya River, while independent studios and design collectives are transforming neighbourhoods such as Charoen Krung and Ari. Bangkok Design Week and the Thailand Biennale continue to draw international attention, positioning the city as a hub for modern Asian artistry.
Wellness is also redefining what luxury means here. Beyond traditional Thai massage and temple meditation, a new wave of holistic sanctuaries is taking hold, blending ancient techniques with modern sensibilities. Floating yoga on the river, sound healing sessions, and plant-based tasting menus are becoming part of the city’s evolving identity.
Bangkok’s culinary renaissance continues to set the pace for Southeast Asia. Michelin-starred restaurants sit beside night markets that remain true to their roots, and the city’s chefs are embracing sustainability, provenance, and presentation in new ways. Expect menus that reflect both precision and playfulness, where Thai heritage meets global innovation.
When is the best time to visit Bangkok?
The best time to visit Bangkok is from November to February, when the heat softens and the skies are clear. This cooler season makes it easier to explore temples, floating markets, and the city’s outdoor spaces. It’s also when Bangkok’s cultural calendar comes alive with art fairs, film festivals, and food events that showcase the city’s creative pulse.
Where to stay in Bangkok: Aman Nai Lert
Newly opened in 2025, Aman Nai Lert brings a sense of serenity to the heart of Bangkok. Set within the Nai Lert Park heritage estate, it feels like a sanctuary suspended in time. The design is understated yet elegant, with tranquil gardens, flowing water features, and refined interiors inspired by Thai craftsmanship.
Guests can retreat to the Aman Spa or dine at the signature restaurant, where menus celebrate local ingredients with quiet sophistication. The soft lines and calming atmosphere are the perfect counterbalance to the city’s intensity, a place where calm and culture coexist in perfect harmony.
6. KYOTO, JAPAN
Kyoto remains Japan’s living archive, a city where ancient rituals and contemporary refinement blend perfectly together. In 2026, its allure continues to deepen, not through novelty but through a renewed appreciation of heritage, design, and the art of slowing down.
While Tokyo defines Japan’s modern rhythm, Kyoto holds its soul. It is a city of contrasts: moss-covered temples standing beside minimalist boutiques, centuries-old tea houses sharing streets with avant-garde galleries. Each season transforms Kyoto completely, from cherry blossom-lined canals in spring to the fiery maples of autumn. But what draws travellers here now is not just the beauty, but the stillness, a sense of mindfulness that feels increasingly rare in the modern world.
The city’s creative energy is subtle yet powerful. A new generation of artisans is reinterpreting tradition, from indigo dyeing and ceramics to kaiseki cuisine and contemporary ryokans. Kyoto has become a beacon for design lovers, where craftsmanship and sustainability are inseparable. Its quiet revolution lies not in reinvention, but in preservation with purpose.
When is the best time to visit Kyoto?
The best time to visit Kyoto is March to May for the cherry blossom season or October to November for the autumn foliage. Both periods offer mild weather and breathtaking scenery, ideal for temple walks, garden visits, and cultural immersion.
Where to stay in Kyoto: Capella Kyoto
Opening in 2026, Capella Kyoto captures the spirit of the city through refined minimalism and deep cultural storytelling. Set within the city’s historic Miyagawa-chō district near the Gion quarter and designed by Kengo Kuma & Associates. The architecture draws from traditional machiya townhouses, with interiors that balance texture and tranquillity. Art, craftsmanship, and culinary expression are central to the experience, while the spa focuses on Japanese wellness rituals rooted in nature. Capella Kyoto is more than a hotel; it’s a dialogue between time, tradition, and timeless design and one that really shouldn’t be missed in 2026.
7. BIG SKY, MONTANA, USA
Set against a cinematic backdrop of mountains, pine forests, and endless skies, Big Sky represents the modern traveller’s return to nature, without compromise on comfort. In 2026, this corner of Montana continues to attract those seeking open-air adventure, seasonal beauty, and understated luxury.
In winter, Big Sky transforms into a snow-covered haven. Skiers and snowboarders will find some of the best powder in North America, while snowshoeing and dog-sledging offer slower, more immersive ways to explore. As summer arrives, the landscape shifts, wildflower meadows replace snowfields, and Yellowstone National Park becomes a natural extension of the Big Sky experience. Fly-fishing, horseback riding, and stargazing connect visitors to the raw essence of the American West.
But beyond its captivating outdoor scenes, Big Sky is evolving as a destination for design-led wilderness living. Boutique lodges, farm-to-table dining, and curated wellness retreats are redefining luxury in the mountains. Here, authenticity is the new extravagance, simplicity elevated by craftsmanship and connection.
When is the best time to visit Big Sky, Montana?
The best time to visit Big Sky depends on the experience you’re seeking. December to March offers peak skiing, while June to September brings long, golden days perfect for hiking and exploring Yellowstone’s geothermal destinations.
Where to stay in Big Sky: One&Only Moonlight Basin
Opening in 2026, One&Only Moonlight Basin sets a new benchmark for mountain luxury. Framed by rugged peaks and alpine lakes, this resort pairs bold architecture with warm, tactile interiors. Suites offer sweeping views and a profound sense of solitude, with fireplaces, oversized terraces and serene spa-inspired bathrooms that make switching off effortless.
Days are filled with guided heli-skiing, backcountry hiking, and wildlife encounters, alongside restorative wellness rituals. Evenings feature fireside dining, chef-led foraging, and mountain cuisine, culminating in stargazing beneath Montana's vast night sky.
8. IGUAZÚ, ARGENTINA
There are few places on earth as spellbinding as Iguazú. Straddling the border between Argentina and Brazil, these vast waterfalls are nature at its most impressive.
In 2026, travellers are discovering Iguazú not only as a wonder of the natural world but as a sanctuary for restoration and reconnection. The surrounding rainforest, part of the UNESCO-listed Atlantic Forest, shelters toucans, jaguars, and hundreds of bird species. Walking trails, river safaris, and canopy excursions reveal the ecosystem’s diversity, while indigenous Guaraní communities share ancient traditions and knowledge of the land.
For those seeking more than spectacle, Iguazú offers an experience that’s grounding and immersive. Mornings begin with birdsong and mist rising from the falls; afternoons might be spent on jungle treks or cooling swims beneath hidden cascades. It’s a destination that is as bucket list worthy as it is restorative and exciting.
When is the best time to visit Iguazú?
The best time to visit Iguazú is from March to May or August to October, when temperatures are mild and water levels are ideal for viewing the falls. These shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and the most vivid jungle greens after seasonal rains.
Where to stay in Iguazú: Awasi Iguazú
Awasi Iguazú transforms nature into narrative. With just 15 Owambo-style thatch and clay huts nestled within the rainforest, each stay feels entirely private and personal. Guests are paired with their own private guide and vehicle, allowing every experience to unfold at their own pace, from tracking rhinos to spying leopards climbing up a jackleberry tree and river excursions to visiting local communities. Sustainability and conservation are woven through every detail, making Awasi both an eco-lodge and a celebration of place. Your stay here will be nothing short of unforgettable.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON WHERE TO TRAVEL IN 2026
As travel evolves in 2026, one thing becomes clear: true luxury is no longer about excess, but about finding the small things that make an impact. We’re seeking more than just a beautiful hotel; it’s about experiences that stay with us, flavours we can’t find anywhere else, and places that offer a genuine sense of discovery. From the deserts of Namibia to the rainforests of Iguazú, these destinations remind us that meaningful journeys are the ones that shift how we see the world and ourselves. Let this be your guide to the journeys worth taking in 2026, and the kind of considered curation METTA is known for.
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