{"id":482414,"date":"2025-12-31T13:07:27","date_gmt":"2025-12-31T13:07:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/482414\/"},"modified":"2025-12-31T13:07:27","modified_gmt":"2025-12-31T13:07:27","slug":"best-destinations-to-visit-around-the-world-in-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/482414\/","title":{"rendered":"Best destinations to visit around the world in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9ebr70003l26ot0zizd5gg@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Whether you\u2019re a full-time nomad or a once-a-year vacationer, every special travel memory begins with one essential question: where to?\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9edunb00053b6pqmsidpcr@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            This year, the team at CNN Travel hopes to answer not only the question of where, but also the question of why now? These destinations are special all the time, but there\u2019s something new or significant happening in 2026 that you should know about.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9edunb00063b6pczlthodb@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            The places to go in 2026 list includes a region that will experience a rare total solar eclipse, a city that has been crowned a capital of culture, a foodie haven that just scored a major global recognition, a beloved tourist island that is bouncing back from a brutal natural disaster, and more.\n    <\/p>\n<p>       <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1036206-134-20251223151638683.jpg\" alt=\"Kayakers paddle on the River Torrens in Adelaide.\" class=\"image_large__dam-img image_large__dam-img--loading\" onload=\"this.classList.remove('image_large__dam-img--loading')\" onerror=\"imageLoadError(this)\" height=\"2500\" width=\"2000\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo000d3b6p1g8nvm5m@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            \u201cYou go to move \/ You got to go \/ You go to be somebody.\u201d Those lyrics come from a 1978 track from Cold Chisel, the Adelaide-formed band responsible for Australia\u2019s unofficial national anthem. They act as a beacon, summoning travelers to Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, in particular.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo000e3b6pef9gd1rm@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            It may not have the star wattage of Sydney or the Great Barrier Reef, but Adelaide is like a microcosm<strong> <\/strong>of everything that makes Australia special: beaches, vineyards, wildlife and best-in-class food and drink.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo000f3b6pldmq3rbf@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Now, Americans can get there more easily with the first-ever direct flight from the US, a United route from San Francisco. Start at Adelaide Central Market to try some of South Australia\u2019s finest cheeses, wines and produce, then make the best of the temperate weather<strong> <\/strong>at the city\u2019s botanic gardens and by going on bushwalks and star tours led by members of the Aboriginal community.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo000g3b6pwtz6hs37@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Adelaide is also the gateway to the beautiful Barossa Valley wine country and to Kangaroo Island, which is welcoming visitors again after being devastated by bushfires in 2020. \u2014 Lilit Marcus\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo000i3b6pmksah5gk@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Spend your next vacation strolling past the novelty vape shops of some overcrowded European capital if you must. Or you could lose yourself in the sandy infinity of the Sahara, in a country whose intense and silent natural landscapes have been unseen by tourists for decades. Isolated since the 1960s, Algeria began opening up to international visitors in 2023 with new 30-day visas. There are direct flights to capital Algiers from several major European cities, plus Montreal.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo000j3b6p5qp7xzq0@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Although Algeria hopes to become a major destination, it\u2019s early days and adventurous travelers can still experience epic scenery all to themselves. There are the high-plateau sandstone moonscapes of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/2025\/05\/14\/travel\/algeria-sahara-desert-touareg-trek-tassili-n-ajjer\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tassili n\u2019Ajjer National Park<\/a>, home to a veritable Louvre of prehistoric art. It\u2019s best explored on a weeklong hiking trip, supported by a caravan of gear-hauling donkeys.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo000k3b6pyxu4efh1@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Yes, it\u2019s remote and overnight camp facilities are a little rough, but that cell-phone-signal-free peace is its own five-star luxury nowadays. There\u2019s wildlife to see \u2014 desert foxes, jackals and gazelles \u2014 and ancient Roman and Ottoman cities near the coast. But the main attraction is the vast, brooding and empty expanse of the Sahara, a sea of golden sand where mountainous dunes glow before sunset, giving way to dark skies alive with stars. \u2014 Barry Neild\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo000m3b6pgkbw8s4w@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            At the foot of imposing volcanic Mount Meru lies the city of Arusha, in Tanzania, in the east of Africa. Not far from the wildlife-filled <a href=\"https:\/\/www.serengeti.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Serengeti National Park<\/a> and close to base camp for Mount Kilimanjaro, Arusha is often a gateway to other adventures. That\u2019s despite there being plenty to enjoy in Arusha itself, including the Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre, a striking gallery housing African art and celebrating Tanzanian history.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo000n3b6pknqmytuh@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Come fall of 2026, there will be another reason to stick around Arusha \u2014 <a href=\"https:\/\/janesdream.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Dr Jane\u2019s Dream: The Goodall Centre for Hope<\/a> is opening its doors, celebrating the legacy of late primatologist Jane Goodall. Neighboring the Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre, this attraction hopes to educate, inspire and wow visitors through a series of interactive exhibits exploring wildlife and how we can protect our planet\u2019s animals.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo000o3b6p3qx28kj6@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            While recent election unrest has put Arusha on the map for negative reasons, the opening of the 30,000-seat Samia Suluhu Hassan Stadium in Arusha\u2019s Olomoti area could be a new draw for visitors.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo000p3b6pk37ivpxc@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            While using Arusha as a base for a Serengeti or Ngorongoro safari adventure is a good idea, Arusha National Park is slightly closer and still offers plenty of wildlife spotting: think flamingos on the alkaline Momela Lakes and giraffes wandering through greenery. \u2014 Francesca Street\n    <\/p>\n<p>       <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/gettyimages-1258012312-20251223144103922.jpg\" alt=\"A night scene of Albarracin, Teruel, Spain.\" class=\"image__dam-img image__dam-img--loading\" onload=\"this.classList.remove('image__dam-img--loading')\" onerror=\"imageLoadError(this)\" height=\"1333\" width=\"2000\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo000r3b6pmjmcttia@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            A total solar eclipse will pass over northern Spain on August 12, 2026, and the region of Aragon, midway between Madrid and Barcelona, is an excellent place to view it.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo000s3b6pdhio046c@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Zaragoza, the regional capital, has 2,000 years of history to explore, from Roman ruins to stunning UNESCO-recognized <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwhc.unesco.org%2Fen%2Flist%2F378%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7Cb8c27f1ae590490c675308de36828e2d%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639008131506782920%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=RfODUJTWK%2Bjg6TtfPlbXa8KQ5P%2BgAvV5mpHf2zvDa4M%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mud\u00e9jar architecture<\/a>, a uniquely Spanish blend of Islamic and Gothic. The city was also home to the master painter Francisco Goya and it has the world\u2019s only museum dedicated to his work; it\u2019s currently closed for renovations but it\u2019s hoped that it will reopen for the 280th anniversary of his birthday in 2026.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo000t3b6py9lya4ln@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            The wild, mountainous terrain of Teruel made our guide to the parts of Spain that <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcnn.com%2F2025%2F07%2F10%2Ftravel%2Fhidden-spain-where-tourists-are-welcome&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7Cb8c27f1ae590490c675308de36828e2d%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639008131506804662%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=HmkpAJxk4LrZJi60cp7uV4X6SUMUCmIhRoq1T7oKD00%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">aren\u2019t sick of tourists<\/a>. Visitors here can enjoy atmospheric ghost towns, truffle hunting and, of course, excellent hiking trails. Teruel town, meanwhile, is famous for its serrano ham and the <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dinopolis.com%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7Cb8c27f1ae590490c675308de36828e2d%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639008131506824011%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=F4jptMC7C3V2QI0O2i05iHgkBkTS3Sl%2FCBMSFd1bNW0%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Dinopolis<\/a> theme park is on its outskirts.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo000u3b6ppr9uvcwm@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Watchers of the heavens have plenty to enjoy here beyond the solar eclipse. Aragon has a growing astrotourism scene, centred particularly around Teruel and Huesca. The UNESCO-recognized Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park is a top-tier spot for stargazing, thanks to its low light pollution and magnificent setting. Its gorges and glaciers are in the heart of the Aragonese Pyrenees. \u2014 Maureen O\u2019Hare\n    <\/p>\n<p>       <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/7021-33.jpg\" alt=\"The luxurious Raffles brand in Bahrain, nicknamed \" island=\"\" of=\"\" a=\"\" million=\"\" palm=\"\" trees.=\"\" class=\"image__dam-img image__dam-img--loading\" onload=\"this.classList.remove('image__dam-img--loading')\" onerror=\"imageLoadError(this)\" height=\"1335\" width=\"2000\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo000w3b6ptdcvzhny@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Bahrain is one of those places you\u2019ve heard of \u2014 maybe you\u2019ve watched its Grand Prix \u2014 but probably couldn\u2019t place on a map. About the size of Manhattan, this small island nation is often eclipsed by Gulf heavyweights such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo000x3b6peyggzm47@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Its scale is part of the appeal. The skyline glitters in capital city Manama, yet the streets around its old souq shopping area are walkable. The main island\u2019s interior offers proper desert escapes. Beaches ring the coast. And as a place where civilization thrived 5,000 years ago, Bahrain comes with tangible history \u2014 from the Dilmun Burial Mounds to Qal\u2019at al-Bahrain, which bears traces of Portuguese colonial times. If you want more, an oversea causeway connecting to the mainland opens up the possibility of day trips to Saudi Arabia.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo000y3b6p7ymmwkb4@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            This year, the country gets even easier to reach: Gulf Air now flies direct to JFK. A wave of new luxury hotels \u2014 <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kempinski.com%2Fen%2Fdevelopment%2Fupcoming-openings%2Fkempinski-harbour-heights-bahrain&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7Cb02eba70ae154ae0ce9408de3646ddb6%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639007875157189363%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=%2BSgkRxGT9rBlD6Zl2xvzCYFYyiXeJS4kecoUwbe340s%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Kempinski<\/a> in 2026, followed by a Waldorf Astoria in 2028 \u2014 joins existing names like <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fourseasons.com%2Fbahrain%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7Cb02eba70ae154ae0ce9408de3646ddb6%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639007875157213684%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=%2FrlgQBCEuFyTVktVTMdkvYPUxuQ1ouyxHtMx4hsP%2B0s%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Four Seasons<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.raffles.com%2Fbahrain%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7Cb02eba70ae154ae0ce9408de3646ddb6%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639007875157233449%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=OtFfGHOCv%2BEq0e1zx1ONvuDK9HrtDMMFdgoAusjMUrA%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Raffles<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mantiscollection.com%2Fhotel%2Fhawar-resort-by-mantis%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7Cb02eba70ae154ae0ce9408de3646ddb6%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639007875157253776%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=%2BLxKla2LQq6VRq8Hl08RG7K4vEkbphwAvY%2B4FjwQRoQ%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mantis<\/a>, positioning Bahrain as a getaway for travelers in search of some sun-soaked luxury. Add in a strong caf\u00e9 culture and relaxed rules on alcohol, and the island feels somewhat more laid-back than its regional rivals. \u2014 BN\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00103b6ptzg12r7y@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            The \u201ccapital of Europe\u201d has long been celebrated for its historic buildings, imposing Grand Place and delicious food (think velvety waffles, sweet Speculoos biscuits and warming stews). But there\u2019s more to Brussels than its European Union credentials, gothic architecture and sweet treats. Scratch the surface and you\u2019ll uncover an artistic hub set to come into its own in 2026.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00113b6psoqged78@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            In November, the long-awaited <a href=\"https:\/\/kanal.brussels\/en\/homepage-3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Kanal Centre Pompidou<\/a> is opening in a former car factory, in partnership with Paris\u2019 renowned Centre Pompidou. When Kanal officially opens, expect amazing gallery space, a rooftop restaurant, and an architectural history archive, <a href=\"https:\/\/civa.brussels\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">CIVA<\/a>, which is moving from the other side of the city.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00123b6p4vvz5skd@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Brussels\u2019 artistic heritage can also be explored at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.comicscenter.net\/en\/home\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Comic Art Museum<\/a>, which looks at Belgium\u2019s comic legacy from Tintin to The Smurfs; exploring the city\u2019s array of street art; and heading to annual contemporary art fair Art Brussels.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00133b6p3lxjrajj@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Wandering around the city, you\u2019ll also stumble upon other Brussels highlights old and new \u2014 from the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, beautiful 19th-century covered shopping arcades, to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.atomium.be\/home\/Index\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Atomium<\/a>, the centerpiece of the 1958 Brussels World\u2019s Fair and now a symbol of the city. Meanwhile, two buzzy hotel chains now have outposts in the oft-overlooked north of the city. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.standardhotels.com\/en-GB\/brussels\/properties\/brussels\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Standard<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/thehoxton.com\/brussels\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Hoxton<\/a> offer chic contemporary accommodation and great dining options. \u2014 FS\n    <\/p>\n<p>       <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/gettyimages-1749105164.jpg\" alt=\"Tourists cruise past the Fjord Calvo near Puerto Natales, Chile.\" class=\"image__dam-img image__dam-img--loading\" onload=\"this.classList.remove('image__dam-img--loading')\" onerror=\"imageLoadError(this)\" height=\"1335\" width=\"2000\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00153b6pssund4z7@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Luxury cruise ship lines that serve South America are going big on the Chilean fjords in 2026, with more itineraries including the remote destination among the year\u2019s sailings.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00163b6phdlffbty@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Lesser known than the adjacent Patagonian region but equally enchanting, the Chilean fjords offer intrepid visitors a secluded water world of labyrinthine channels to navigate. Home to pristine glaciers, the region is the South American answer to the Norwegian fjords.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00173b6paab67ixn@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Cruise lines that will feature the destination as part of their lineup in 2026 include Silversea, Regent Seven Seas and Viking. Other cruise lines will be sailing there in 2027 or 2028.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00183b6pr63kgphp@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Their inclusion of this stunning terra incognita gives travelers access to a landscape that can only be experienced by water \u2014 one that emerged as the glaciers began to recede millions of years ago. Wildlife sightings in this area often include dolphins, penguins and migrating humpback whales. \u2014 Jeanne Bonner\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001a3b6paz9pcm9w@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Next year marks the 50th anniversary of the death of Devon\u2019s most famous daughter: writer Agatha Christie. This will be marked with a number of events in 2026, including a <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bl.uk%2Fabout%2Fpress%2Freleases%2Fbritish-library-announces-major-exhibition-on-acclaimed-writer-agatha-christie&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7Cb8c27f1ae590490c675308de36828e2d%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639008131506441939%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=nUpxHybAhIRUtl8qZGOg3z3RONwKY32stRaNgS0BLiw%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">blockbuster exhibition<\/a> at the British Library in London, about 140 miles away.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001b3b6po2wbiuev@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Christie\u2019s work is synonymous with the glamour and intrigue of the Golden Age of Railways, so after a detour for a <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.belmond.com%2Ftrains%2Feurope%2Fuk%2Fbelmond-british-pullman%2Fjourneys%2Fmurder-mystery-lunch%3Fsrsltid%3DAfmBOoqFprd0y2FsQiPoyjZdAvvG-qQ3neRSAy-hTuqe83x2-0dUcqxl&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7Cb8c27f1ae590490c675308de36828e2d%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639008131506530796%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=Bk%2F4qpEvHYxb3Vmwk%2Fe9hvGjv4WRendodhdIWkD6CAM%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Murder Mystery Lunch<\/a> on a Belmond train, travel west by rail to her birthplace in Torquay. The town boomed as a seaside resort in the Victorian age and its well-to-do hillside neighborhoods still have a genteel charm. It hosts an Agatha Christie Festival each September.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001c3b6pmglxu515@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            The other must-see spots in the region for Christie enthusiasts are her holiday home <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.agathachristie.com%2Fabout-christie%2Fgreenway-house&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7Cb8c27f1ae590490c675308de36828e2d%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639008131506705636%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=IAc%2FAkTBfo%2FzxkrNaauLGuOliiZbRPq%2BM7vRHnkdeyQ%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Greenway House<\/a>, the stately <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ugbrooke.co.uk%2F2016%2F09%2F29%2Fagatha_christie_ugbrooke_house%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7Cb8c27f1ae590490c675308de36828e2d%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639008131506725735%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=iqheqFrjIoB0KneLbpf%2F9wrfPDjGtQ9elrxDxu3YSvs%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ugbrooke House<\/a> where she met her first husband, and her writer\u2019s retreat at <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.burghisland.com%2Fabout-us%2Fagatha-christie-and-burgh-island-history%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7Cb8c27f1ae590490c675308de36828e2d%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639008131506744844%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=i7oK3MgWq%2FKYKUcCQSzlgHcm4LSRN4Vtny4yaKSh17A%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Burgh Island<\/a>.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001d3b6popic3mgy@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Try the <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcnn.com%2Ftravel%2Fbritish-afternoon-tea-high-tea-traditions&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7Cb8c27f1ae590490c675308de36828e2d%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639008131506763807%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=QXspEo90AMe%2FwTze4YNwjTBx0A9O4pAn%2FBLv45oEJDg%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">cream teas<\/a> for which England\u2019s West Country is famous, and whose popularity spread as tourists flocked into the region by rail. The Devon way is to spread clotted cream on the scone first, then top with jam. \u2014 MOH\n    <\/p>\n<p>        Find out how \u2018Nature Island\u2019 got its nickname<\/p>\n<p>       <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/gettyimages-550596027-20251223145032982.jpg\" alt=\"Sperm whales are the world's largest toothed predators.\" class=\"image_large__dam-img image_large__dam-img--loading\" onload=\"this.classList.remove('image_large__dam-img--loading')\" onerror=\"imageLoadError(this)\" height=\"2500\" width=\"2000\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001f3b6pzt6lhapr@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Leaning heavily into its \u201cNature Island\u201d moniker, the lush <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/travel\/article\/best-caribbean-islands-to-visit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Caribbean Island<\/a> of Dominica is bringing the world its very first Sperm Whale Reserve. The protected area will span about 475 square miles (1,230 square kilometers) along Dominica\u2019s western coast.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001g3b6p203gov6z@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            The reserve, details of which are still being finalized, will serve as a protected habitat for the resident population of sperm whales \u2014 one of the few in the world. The project will oversee the sustainable management of marine resources, regulating activities such as whale-watching and eco-tourism.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001h3b6phw1urhwq@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Once heavily hunted, the <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fiucn-csg.org%2Fred-list-updates-published-for-sperm-whales-and-lahilles-bottlenose-dolphins%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7C392be178a0e9417a352f08de36a1144a%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639008262616312266%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=u0vwOiC3e3OPvRgjKmrcIXQ3T5%2BPhWik%2BgNvj87fwMw%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">vulnerable species<\/a> is the largest of all toothed whales. A large male sperm whale can grow to more than 60 feet.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001i3b6pupwqlfej@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Whales aren\u2019t the only natural marvels here. Lush volcanic peaks, deep valleys and 365 rivers cover the eastern Caribbean island. In Morne Trois Pitons National Park, the world\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftourism.gov.dm%2Fimages%2Fbrochures%2FBoilingLake%252018Aug14.pdf&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7C392be178a0e9417a352f08de36a1144a%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639008262616331886%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=BLSePfG6htatBNWNFZvE4v4l2WznoPpFSJKsb8IJW2s%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">second-largest boiling lake<\/a> has long fascinated visitors. In 2026, reaching it could get a lot easier with the expected completion of a cable car.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001j3b6pq1qgjx4f@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            United Airlines offers nonstop flights from Newark to Dominica. American Airlines offers direct flights from Miami. Luxury resort <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fsecretbay.dm%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7C392be178a0e9417a352f08de36a1144a%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639008262616845129%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=GJVuHfqA9yH92UKFwrSN0Pp0k0qysc6s2cUzpDnLyuk%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Secret Bay<\/a> just added four new Clifftop Villas to its all-villa offerings. \u2014 Marnie Hunter\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001l3b6pkrsyonz5@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            For travelers who want to be the first to explore an up-and-coming destination, Asia\u2019s youngest country awaits.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001m3b6pwj8o1t30@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/2024\/09\/09\/asia\/pope-francis-east-timor-intl-hnk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">East Timor<\/a> (also called Timor-Leste) gained full independence from Indonesia in 2002 following years of civil war. It was officially added to ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asia Nations) in late 2025 and has its sights fully set on the future.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001n3b6pj7mcg78q@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Sitting in the famed Coral Triangle, one of the top diving and snorkeling spots in the world, the country covers the eastern half of the island of Timor, as well as the Oecussi enclave and the islands of Atauro and Jaco in the Banda Sea.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001o3b6p4gj9hays@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Atauro Island is home to several dive companies and eco resorts, and there are plenty of natural and cultural sites to explore in this mountainous nation.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001p3b6p7izx4buw@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            For centuries, East Timor was ruled by Portugal. Today, remnants of that history can be explored in the old town of Baucau, the country\u2019s second-largest city, including a rebuilt market. In the capital, Dili, the Timorese Resistance Archive and Museum offers visitors insights into the country\u2019s struggle for independence.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001q3b6pg1amrs14@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Airlines in the region have announced new flights servicing Dili in 2026, while direct flights are already available from Bali, Darwin, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Xiamen, China. \u2014 Karla Cripps\n    <\/p>\n<p>       <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/gettyimages-746029003-20251223145202219.jpg\" alt=\"Two tourists jump into the ocean in Negril, Jamaica.\" class=\"image__dam-img image__dam-img--loading\" onload=\"this.classList.remove('image__dam-img--loading')\" onerror=\"imageLoadError(this)\" height=\"1333\" width=\"2000\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001s3b6p967ewdl9@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Jamaica\u2019s bouncing back. That\u2019s the message for tourists wondering about the Caribbean island\u2019s situation since <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/weather\/live-news\/hurricane-melissa-jamaica-landfall-tuesday-climate?post-id=cmhanappg000m3b6pn85pafw2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Hurricane Melissa made landfall<\/a> there in late October as a deadly Category 5 storm.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001t3b6psbf35qge@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            More than two-thirds of the island is already open and welcoming visitors, with more properties reopening their doors each day in a dash to make the most of the winter high season. Tourism makes up nearly a third of Jamaica\u2019s economy, typically generating more than $4 billion in revenues annually.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001u3b6p6c19gn7f@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            \u201cPopular tourist areas such as Ocho Rios, Negril, Kingston and Port Antonio were largely unaffected by the storm,\u201d tourism officials told CNN.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001v3b6p0vy1johw@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Montego Bay, on the western end of the island, was hit hard. Many of Montego Bay\u2019s properties will take time to recover, but more than a dozen had reopened by mid-December. Visit Jamaica is tracking progress in<a href=\"https:\/\/www.visitjamaica.com\/travel-alerts\/hotel-reopenings\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> key destinations here<\/a>.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001w3b6pcr7nkhfb@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Ocho Rios, on the island\u2019s north shore, is home to one of the island\u2019s most spectacular natural areas \u2014 the terraced<a href=\"https:\/\/www.visitjamaica.com\/resort-areas\/ocho-rios\/things-to-do\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> Dunn\u2019s River Falls<\/a>. By late 2026, the new all-inclusive, adults-only resort<a href=\"https:\/\/www.royaltonresorts.com\/resorts\/chic-jamaica\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> Royalton CHIC Jamaica Paradise Cove<\/a> is expected to open west of Ocho Rios on Runaway Bay. While storm recovery is a process, Jamaica\u2019s message to visitors is clear: \u201cThe best way to give back is to come back.\u201d \u2014 MH\n    <\/p>\n<p>       <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/k806c7-20251223145302409.jpg\" alt=\"Kanazawa's Kazuemachi Chaya district is known for traditional Japanese houses and cherry blossom trees.\" class=\"image__dam-img image__dam-img--loading\" onload=\"this.classList.remove('image__dam-img--loading')\" onerror=\"imageLoadError(this)\" height=\"1333\" width=\"2000\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001y3b6pzv48ygmp@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Big changes are coming to Japan in 2026. By November, instant tax-free shopping will be no more, while dual pricing, visitor caps and stricter rules are being introduced at popular spots like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/travel\/mount-fuji-overtourism-intl-hnk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mount Fuji<\/a> due to overcrowding. For those eager to travel to the country before it becomes more costly to visit and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/travel\/japan-overtourism-nara-deer-intl-hnk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">avoid the crowds<\/a> in Japan\u2019s busy cities like Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, Kanazawa is an ideal alternative.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo001z3b6pnypo9pxj@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            One of the fastest-growing cities in the country, Kanazawa has long been a popular spot for domestic travelers. However, its appeal is fast spreading to international visitors. Kanazawa is probably most famous for producing a staggering 99% of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/videos\/tv\/2017\/12\/15\/crossroads-japan-gold-leaf.cnn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Japan\u2019s gold leaf<\/a>, but the compact destination, located around two and a half hours by bullet train from Kyoto, is also home to several top attractions.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00203b6pnwllky3a@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Kenrokuen, considered one of Japan\u2019s \u201cthree best landscape gardens\u201d and the Higashi Chaya District, a smaller, but less crowded alternative geisha district to Kyoto\u2019s Gion, are among them, along with the remains of Kanazawa Castle, which was destroyed by fire in 1881.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00213b6p8zriu1p3@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Notable events this year include the Kanazawa Coffee Festival, held in late May, the cherry blossom viewing and illumination of Kenrokuen Garden in spring, and the Tsurugi Horai Festival in early October. \u2014Tamara Hardingham-Gill\n    <\/p>\n<p>       <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/gkr-camp-2-photography-by-reto-guntli-please-credit-photographer-if-using-20251223150937552.jpg\" alt=\"A traditional ger (also sometimes called a yurt) in Mongolia.\" class=\"image__dam-img image__dam-img--loading\" onload=\"this.classList.remove('image__dam-img--loading')\" onerror=\"imageLoadError(this)\" height=\"1331\" width=\"2000\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmjcehk5d00083b6po8a90a1k@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Mongolia\u2019s tourism scene is blossoming, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/travel\/guide-trans-mongolian-railway-mongolia-trains\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">as we\u2019ve noted<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/travel\/worlds-first-national-park-bogd-khan-uul-mongolia-intl-hnk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here on CNN Travel<\/a>. A five-hour drive from the capital of Ulaanbataar, the Orkhon Valley is worth the challenging terrain and bumpy roads. Here, far from the markers of civilization such as traffic and reliable internet access, it feels like one of the rare places on earth where you can actually get away from it all.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00243b6pxc67d55o@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            That may change in the decade to come, though, as Mongolia has ambitious plans to build a new city here. New Kharkhorum will rise from the plains of what was once the capital of the Mongol Empire, and it will change the way this landscape looks forever.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00253b6pa06rgf4x@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Until then, it\u2019s worth visiting the <a href=\"https:\/\/genghiskhanretreat.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Genghis Khan Polo Retreat<\/a> to stay in a traditional (if luxurious) ger, watch a wrestling match, go horseback riding, snuggle under a cashmere blanket and stargaze in some of the clearest skies in the world. \u2014 LM\n    <\/p>\n<p>        Oulu, Finland<\/p>\n<p>       <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/frozenpeople-x8a6338-harri-tarvainen.jpg\" alt=\"The Frozen People festival is a highlight of Oulu's social calendar.\" class=\"image__dam-img image__dam-img--loading\" onload=\"this.classList.remove('image__dam-img--loading')\" onerror=\"imageLoadError(this)\" height=\"1333\" width=\"2000\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00273b6pfh6z6dwg@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            It\u2019s been overshadowed by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/travel\/article\/helsinki-tips-for-visiting-finland-capital\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Helsinki<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/2024\/12\/13\/travel\/overtourism-santa-claus-village-finnish-lapland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lapland<\/a> for many years, but Finland\u2019s Oulu is stepping into the spotlight as one of the European Capitals of Culture for 2026.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00293b6ppn3j9rpj@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Not only is Oulu a wonderful spot to see the Aurora Borealis, the Finnish destination is home to some incredible floating saunas, such as a raft in the heart of the Oulujoki River, and scenic nature spots such as the Hupisaaret Islands City Park, made up of several small islands in the Oulu River estuary.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002a3b6psdd47b2u@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            While landmarks like Cathedral, which dates from the 18th century, and the Market Hall are not to be missed, one of the city\u2019s most iconic sights is actually a bronze statue of a round policeman, nicknamed Toripolliisi, located in the Market Square\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002b3b6pv8eobqnj@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Oulu will host just under 200 events as part of Oulu2026<strong>,<\/strong> including the electronic music festival Frozen People with the premiere of musical \u201cSnowball,\u201d which is set in the land of the Northern Lights, serving as the grand finale at the close of the year. \u2014 THG\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002d3b6pp5klwu44@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Remember all those pretty pastel-painted houses and buzzing food markets from \u201cCrazy Rich Asians?\u201d Spoiler alert: most of the Singapore-set film was actually filmed in Penang. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/travel\/article\/peranakan-nyonya-food-intl-hnk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Peranakan culture<\/a> \u2014 a mix of Chinese, Southeast Asian and European influences \u2014 is on full display here. It especially shines in Penang\u2019s diverse, delicious food scene, which was recognized by the Michelin Guide for the first time in 2025.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002e3b6p8i9wyarg@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Among the star recipients was beloved-for-a-reason Auntie Gaik Lean\u2019s Old School Eatery in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/travel\/article\/george-town-penang-greatest-street-food-city\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">George Town<\/a>, Penang\u2019s centerpiece town and UNESCO heritage site. With its vintage decor, colorful tiles, and 1950s and \u201960s tunes playing in the background<strong>,<\/strong> it certainly earns the \u201cold school\u201d designation in its name.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002f3b6pgu0ho880@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Michelin or not, you don\u2019t need to shell out a lot for a great meal in Penang: street stalls, night markets and kopitiams (traditional coffee shops) serve fragrant curries, steaming bowls of laksa, never-too-sweet pandan and coconut cakes, and other mouth-watering fare. Between meals, hunt for George Town\u2019s iconic street murals, including one that pays tribute to hometown hero Jimmy Choo. \u2014 LM\n    <\/p>\n<p>       <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/gettyimages-2224196632.jpg\" alt=\"A 3,000-year-old citadel from the Caral civilization located at Pe\u00f1ico is one of the oldest in the world.\" class=\"image__dam-img image__dam-img--loading\" onload=\"this.classList.remove('image__dam-img--loading')\" onerror=\"imageLoadError(this)\" height=\"1333\" width=\"2000\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002m3b6pu66aeeej@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            After eight years of excavation, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/2025\/07\/08\/science\/penico-ancient-city-peru-scli-intl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ancient city of Pe\u00f1ico<\/a> was unveiled by archeologists in 2025.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002n3b6pkme29970@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Once a lively trade hub, the settlement is thought to have emerged following the decline of one of the oldest civilizations in the Americas, the Caral.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002o3b6pi59dbj0g@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            The site, a four-hour drive north of capital city Lima, includes walking routes through the preserved ruins. And it provides visitors with a compelling archeological companion to Machu Picchu, the Inca ruins high up in the Andes mountains. Travel agents say they expect tourist visits to ramp up as logistics and local expertise are solidified.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002p3b6p3yqycgwb@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Excavators, led by famed Peruvian archeologist Ruth Shady Solis, uncovered clay sculptures and ceremonial tools, in addition to conch-shell trumpets once used in the Andes region to call people together. They believe the city, which is set among Peru\u2019s desert hillsides and dates back more than 3,000 years, was a crossroads connecting the country\u2019s coastal areas and the mountainous Andes region.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002q3b6pgb7m4qbg@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            For travelers looking for a one-of-a-kind trip that combines pre-Hispanic history with natural beauty, Pe\u00f1ico provides a window into an ancient civilization that predates other more widely known heritage sites. The ongoing archeological work could portend future discoveries that would make the destination even more enticing. \u2014 Jeanne Bonner\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002h3b6p5jauw74j@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            In any given year, Philadelphia draws millions of tourists for its world-class art institutions, historic attractions such as the Liberty Bell and burgeoning restaurant scene, especially near leafy Rittenhouse Square.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002i3b6pui0695fj@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            But for a city that prides itself on being the place where the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence, Philadelphia will be one of the premier spots for the year-long national commemoration of America\u2019s 250th birthday. The nation\u2019s birthplace will have <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.visitphilly.com%2F2026-philadelphia%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7C6032db426fba4b49815808de340e4e25%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639005433209565212%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=CybVGOxcdpxBG3sCfimGLMYOuQCcBHyy%2B9pgLb0j%2BuI%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">celebrations<\/a> in every neighborhood, and to underscore the city\u2019s role as home to the first American flag and the first Continental Congress, each week will be marked with festivities commemorating a list of <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.visitphilly.com%2F52-weeks-of-firsts%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7C6032db426fba4b49815808de340e4e25%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639005433209591665%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=Yx4akdWoii6qo8xXCZBkg%2BNYqtEMsPxp6j5OLTqrMcc%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">52 firsts<\/a>, including America\u2019s first flower show and first zoo.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002j3b6peytoja31@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            The marquee events include a one-day <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.visitphilly.com%2Fted%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7C6032db426fba4b49815808de340e4e25%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639005433209610155%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=qnfCRWWycFZZyYRqc%2Fv3mjHawpJdRsCWc4jODB3TEJY%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">TED conference<\/a> about the past, present and future of Democracy, with all new talks from leading figures. The <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amrevmuseum.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7C6032db426fba4b49815808de340e4e25%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639005433209628567%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=6GnbCYv2wCnBnq%2BrY6Gmjixm3fSqLhdVD9fAQ5AbnxE%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Museum of the American Revolution<\/a> has already opened an exhibition called \u201cThe Declaration\u2019s Journey,\u201d which showcases rare documents and artifacts associated with the Declaration of Independence.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002k3b6p5miog84o@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Separate from the Semiquincentennial celebrations, the city will also be one of the host cities of the <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.visitphilly.com%2Fthings-to-do%2Fevents%2Fworld-cup%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7C6032db426fba4b49815808de340e4e25%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639005433209646779%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=i6uQD98%2BT72CYrqvt%2Fs2AAPvJaipkoZRdNwNWugsP6o%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">FIFA World Cup<\/a>, with a game scheduled for July 4 that will include a fan festival in Fairmount Park. Also worth a visit is a <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcaldergardens.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7C6032db426fba4b49815808de340e4e25%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639005433209665046%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=S8EDm7DnC8wEX5mLzmaBp9Z%2FSFXAmUJcAcf9HiC8JTs%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">brand-new sculpture garden<\/a> dedicated to transformative 20th-century artist Alexander Calder, who was born in Philadelphia. Last but not least, 2026 marks the <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.phlvisitorcenter.com%2Frockyfest&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7C6032db426fba4b49815808de340e4e25%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639005433209683128%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=pcky5VJAnawd2XHxL0RJGLrW8et%2BdPbdwPyw5H6OjAI%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">50th anniversary<\/a> of the seminal underdog-as-hero movie, \u201cRocky,\u201d which immortalized the 72 steps leading up to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Philly will be making the most of the milestone. \u2014 Jeanne Bonner\n    <\/p>\n<p>       <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/7333980.jpg\" alt=\"The Coast Guard Cutter Eagle is shown moored behind the USS Constitution.\" class=\"image__dam-img image__dam-img--loading\" onload=\"this.classList.remove('image__dam-img--loading')\" onerror=\"imageLoadError(this)\" height=\"1333\" width=\"2000\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002s3b6ptnm8etha@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sail250.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7C392be178a0e9417a352f08de36a1144a%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639008262616225981%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=jXTRU4AepaSgwP7qvxMr0aE1uCXmjxd12lczXq8XLxc%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sail250<\/a> is part of the wider celebration marking 250 years since the Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776. The maritime festivities, scheduled from late May through mid-July, start in <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sail250neworleans.com%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7C392be178a0e9417a352f08de36a1144a%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639008262616252896%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=d2hdSrN70PKdiqvfnyP6pm7DkgFJaCmh7n1glmZWJho%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">New Orleans<\/a> on May 28 when a flotilla of ships will form a Parade of Sail along the Mississippi River. Ship tours and fireworks are part of the five-day lineup.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002t3b6pov1m3ti6@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Similar events will be held in <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fsail250virginia.com%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7C392be178a0e9417a352f08de36a1144a%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639008262616272877%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=ElvXcsH%2FMlDHnqpiDALWAHnzenm%2BIu77L%2BjvvSwh5pY%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Virginia<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sail250md.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Clilit.marcus%40cnn.com%7C392be178a0e9417a352f08de36a1144a%7C0eb48825e8714459bc72d0ecd68f1f39%7C0%7C0%7C639008262616292474%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=a4H%2BE%2F4h%2BP63ctmUgR4aQ3y0c9D4t6d1D6UfN460uhE%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Maryland<\/a>, where Norfolk and Baltimore are host cities. Baltimore is putting on an airshow as well. The final two locations, New York City and Boston, will host the largest flotillas, organizers say.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002u3b6pz4smlx0z@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            The Port of New York and New Jersey will host a 6-day celebration around July 4, bringing together more than 100 impressive ships \u2014 the largest-ever peacetime gathering of tall ships and naval vessels. Free tours of many ships are part of the draw for the millions expected to gather for Parades of Sail, fireworks and an aerial show led by the US Navy\u2019s Blue Angels.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002v3b6pozzl7pcn@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            The sailing celebration wraps up July 11-16 in Boston, where deep maritime history and numerous sites dating back to the American Revolution offer rich context around America\u2019s founding. \u2014 MH\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002x3b6ptmugerxz@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            One century ago, scores of travelers arrived in Santa Monica after a grueling journey along <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/travel\/american-heartland-theme-park-oklahoma\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Route 66<\/a> to reach the West Coast. The 2,448-mile \u201cMother Road\u201d was the start of what would become the great American road trip \u2014 open stretches of wilderness, towns lined with mom-and-pop stores along the way, and motels providing shelter at every turn.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002y3b6pu68txun9@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            As Route 66 turns 100, there\u2019s no better time to discover the Mother Road \u2014 whether you drive the whole road from Chicago or tackle the final desert-filled stretch from Arizona to California.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo002z3b6ppxzbcewe@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            The new year will be a much-needed new start for countless people in and around Los Angeles who were affected by the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/2025\/01\/09\/us\/heroes-los-angeles-wildfires\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">devastating wildfires of January 2025<\/a>. Turning over a new leaf will be LACMA, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, which will open its extraordinary new building, with glass-walled walkways arcing across Wilshire Boulevard itself, in April. Soccer lovers will want to arrive in June and July, when LA will be a host city for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Eight matches will be played in the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, near LAX Airport and around 13 miles south of Santa Monica. \u2014 Julia Buckley\n    <\/p>\n<p>        St. Pierre and Miquelon, France<\/p>\n<p>       <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/mathieudupuis-spm2021-randocapmiquelon-0033.jpg\" alt=\"A CBC police drama called \" st=\"\" pierre=\"\" highlights=\"\" this=\"\" curious=\"\" region.=\"\" class=\"image_large__dam-img image_large__dam-img--loading\" onload=\"this.classList.remove('image_large__dam-img--loading')\" onerror=\"imageLoadError(this)\" height=\"2500\" width=\"2000\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00313b6pl9dtkt0l@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Look at a map and you\u2019ll be forgiven for thinking Saint Pierre and Miquelon is a part of Newfoundland. Made up of a string of islands just 20 or so kilometers off Canada\u2019s eastern-most province, it\u2019s a self-governing territorial overseas collectivity \u2014 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/videos\/travel\/2018\/05\/08\/explore-parts-unknown-newfoundland-ron-4.cnn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">France\u2019s last outpost in North America<\/a>.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00323b6psu27yvam@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            The name features the two main islands of this archipelago. St. Pierre, with its colorful buildings built around a protected cove, is the capital, while Miquelon is a top spot for nature seekers.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00333b6p4s78rdmj@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            The islands had a few permanent residents by the late 1600s, but a significant wave of migration took place after the French wrested control of the islands back from the British in 1816.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00343b6py8z7gmze@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            The seafood on offer here is as fresh as it gets and, this technically being France, you will definitely be eating well. St. Pierre is filled with bakeries, restaurants and boutiques.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00353b6pcx2jiffq@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Nearby Miquelon, meanwhile, owes its unusual shape to a 7.5-mile-long sandy isthmus that connects it to the island of Langlade. It\u2019s an excellent destination for hiking and biking.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00363b6pfye1r38a@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Summer is the time to visit, when the weather is mild and tours and businesses are fully operational. Several ferries make regular trips to St. Pierre and Miquelon from Newfoundland, while there are year-round direct flights from several Canadian cities including Montreal, Halifax and St. John\u2019s. In the summer, there\u2019s a five-hour flight from Paris.\n    <\/p>\n<p class=\"paragraph-elevate inline-placeholder vossi-paragraph_elevate\" data-uri=\"cms.cnn.com\/_components\/paragraph\/instances\/cmj9eg0oo00373b6pqzylppl5@published\" data-editable=\"text\" data-component-name=\"paragraph\" data-article-gutter=\"true\">\n            Why now? According to multiple media reports, residents in the small village of Miquelon are <a href=\"https:\/\/cepri.net\/en\/non-classe-en\/facing-climate-change-relocating-an-entire-village\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">slowly relocating<\/a>, having received government funds to rebuild on higher ground due to fears that rising sea levels would submerge the village. Travelers may want to experience this historic village in person before it changes forever. \u2014 KC\n    <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Whether you\u2019re a full-time nomad or a once-a-year vacationer, every special travel memory begins with one essential question:&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":482415,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[50,103],"class_list":{"0":"post-482414","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-world","8":"tag-news","9":"tag-world"},"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/pubeurope.com\/@us\/115814337709269243","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/482414","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=482414"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/482414\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/482415"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=482414"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=482414"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=482414"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}