January Newsletter

It’s a new year, and I love the excitement that comes with a brand-new calendar and a fresh start! Thinking about my goals and plans for the year ahead is an important task for my travel agency, and there truly is so much to look forward to in the coming months.(And I know many of you are already looking forward to a trip we have booked together!)

As you start penciling in family activities and commitments throughout the year, you should start thinking about your vacation plans. Where do you want to go in 2026,​​ or even 2027?

Here’s a look at what will be new and hot this year for both land and sea, along with some anticipated travel trends.

All-Inclusive Resorts

Sandals Grande St. Lucian

Set on its own peninsula with breathtaking views of St. Lucia’s iconic Pit​​ons,Sandals Grande St. Lucianis one of the brand’s mo​​st celebrated resorts — and a standout choice for couples seeking true adults-only indulgence. This all-inclusive escape features elegant accommodations (​​known for its overwater bungalows), gourmet dining across multiple restaurants, and premium spirits — all included. Guests enjoy a rel​​axed yet refined atmosphere, world-class beaches, and effortless romance from sunrise to sunset.​

Secrets Macao Beach Punta Cana

​​Sophisticated and serene,Secrets Macao Beach P​unta Canaoffers an adults-only, all-inclusive experience designed for couples and grown-up getaways. Guests enjoy nine restaurants and nine bars, including a unique farm-to-table dining experience set within the resort’s garden, as well as Preferred Club accommodations with access to exclusive spaces like a rooftop pool overlooking the ocean. With multiple pools, an elegant beachfront setting, and access to additional amenities next door, this resort delivers laid-back luxury without sacrificing variety.​

Royalton Vessence Barbados

Royalton Vessence Barbados welcomes guests this year, catering to adult travelers who seek a sophisticated and relaxing environment with special touches throughout that create unique vacation memories. An open-air creative studio provides the backdrop for pottery, painting, and culinary workshops during the day and for live musical performances by night. Yoga, tai chi, expressive movement classes, and non-motorized watersports round out the activities. A fun twist on a trip souvenir, guests will return home with a white canvas beach tote that has been painted by a local artist.

Cruising

Ultra Luxury, All Suite: Explora Journeys

Designed for travelers who want a refined, resort-at-sea experience,Explora Journeysredefines luxury cruising. All-suite accommodations, expansive oceanfront terraces, Michelin-inspired dining, and an unhurried pace create a yacht-like atmosphere that feels worlds away from traditional cruising. Thoughtfully immersive itineraries, exceptional service, and a serene onboard ambiance make Explora idea​​l for travelers seeking sophistication, space, and effortless indulgence.​​

Perfect for:Luxury seekers, discerning couples, and travelers new to cruising who want five-star comfort without formality.​​

Elevated Premium: The Retreat Class on Celebrity
For travelers who want premium cruising with luxury-level perks,The Retreat® on Celebrity Cruisesoffers a ship-within-a-ship experience. Guests enjoy spacious suite accommodations, exclusive access to the Retreat Sundeck and Lounge, and dining at Luminae — reserved only for suite guests. Combined with Celebrity’s modern design, elevated cuisine, and destination-focused itineraries, The Retreat delivers a polished, upscale vacation without the ultra-luxury price point.

Perfect for:Couples and professionals who want exclusivity, refined service, and contemporary style.​​

Adults-Only and Effortlessly Cool: Virgin Voyages

Bold, modern, and completely adults-only,Virgin Voyagesis cruising without the clichés. With over 20+ eateries included, no buffets, no formal nights, and no kids onboard, the experience feels more like a chic floating boutique hotel than a cruise ship. Add in wellness-forward programming, stylish nightlife, and Caribbean and European itineraries, and you have a cruise that resonates with travelers who value freedom, design, and fun.

Perfect for:Couples, friend groups, and travelers who want an energetic but upscale escape — without traditional cruise rules.​​

Anticipated Travel Trends for 2026

Luxury: Travelers are looking for less of the “same old, same old” and crave personalized, meaningful experiences that go beyond simple vacation upgrades. The concept of luxury has evolved to include immersive and authentic excursions and activities, upscale dining that celebrates local cuisine, and indulgent amenities. These are not “cookie cutter” vacations – they are thoughtfully crafted, incredibly customized trips.

Active and adventure: For those looking to do something a little bit different during their vacations, immersive physical and nature-based experiences that go beyond basic sightseeing are very appealing. (Think soft adventure combined with unique accommodations that embrace the destination and its surroundings while incorporating it into the experience.)

Soft adventure (n): adventure tourism that requires little experience and is low risk

Group travel: Smaller, tailored groups for both general travel or niche experiences are becoming increasingly popular and are expecting to grow more in the coming year. These specialized itineraries could include a focus on wellness, adventure, or culinary arts, for example.

Whether you’re ready to return to a favorite resort or explore a new ship with your first mate, I am here to turn dreams and trends into a vacation on your calendar.