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| Where I’ve been and still want to go in 2026 |
| by Brian Kelly |
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Hi everyone,
2025 was a big year for me. My family expanded, my book “How to Win at Travel” was published and became a New York Times bestseller, and my son Cooper visited all seven continents before he turned 1 — he’s proved to be an amazing traveler, just like his older brother Dean. The year was filled with memorable trips, from my paternity leave in Thailand and a safari in Kruger National Park to a multigenerational adventure in Peru and a trip to Australia, where I rang in 2026.
When it comes to travel this year, there’s a lot on my mind, from considering issues like overtourism and loyalty program devaluations to figuring out how having two kids (one of whom will enter toddlerhood this year) changes how and where I travel.
In 2026, I have some travel goals, which include getting farther off the beaten path and discovering nature, both underwater and on land. I plan to visit second cities and underrated spots in lieu of some of the more popular tourist destinations. I also have my eye on discovering some domestic destinations.
Here’s what’s on my list for 2026.
Fiji
On the way home from Australia, we booked a stopover in Fiji using the Chase Travel℠ portal and Points Boost. I redeemed Chase Ultimate Rewards points for a five-night stay in a four-bedroom villa at Six Senses Fiji. Here’s what I loved, liked and would improve:
What I loved- Fiji Airways — the service and staff were amazing.
- The Fijian people were so kind and the most kid-friendly I have ever encountered in my travels.
What I liked- The weather — even though it was the rainy season, we still had some beautiful and sunny days for beach time.
- The spa was very nice, and we loved the plunge pool at our villa.
- The Teitei outdoor restaurant is where we ate most nights to enjoy the weather and the casual atmosphere.
What I would improve- There was no air conditioning in our villa’s common area, no window screens and no mosquito nets. We were able to move to a three-bedroom villa for the remainder of our stay that had an air-conditioned entertainment room.
- The service was spotty (mostly management) when we had issues with the villa or the food.
Overall, the islands are beautiful, and the people are friendly, but if you are looking for white-sand, powdery beaches, this might not be the place for you, as the beach at Six Senses is mostly shells and rocks, but the water is calm, and Dean loved it.
Check out my Instagram story highlights on Fiji for the full review. I hope to go back and give Fiji another shot.
Asian destinations: Taipei, the Philippines and Bhutan
Taipei, Taiwan, is a family-friendly, safe destination where I plan to sample street food and take the kids on the Maokong Gondola to the city’s famous teahouses. I’ll stay at the brand-new Capella Taipei, which features a stunning outdoor pool with panoramic city views. And with Starlux Airlines eyeing the East Coast, I may be able to fly there on the airline’s A350 from a hub closer to home.
When it comes to the Philippines, I have my eye on the Nay Palad Hideaway in Siargao, a beachfront luxury resort where I can dive to spot whale sharks and rays. Bhutan is an ideal destination for a solo trip that inspires reflection and wellness. Its remoteness intrigues me, and I know I’d emerge refreshed after a stay at the tranquil Six Senses Thimphu, tucked away in the Himalayas.
Eastern Europe: Romania, Slovenia and Montenegro
Eastern Europe feels more far-flung than the European destinations I tend to frequent, such as Portugal and Spain. I’ve got my eye on destinations like Montenegro’s Kotor Bay, Lake Bled and the lesser-known Lake Bohinj in Slovenia, and Bucharest in Romania, where I’d love to stay at the recently opened, regal Corinthia Bucharest.
The Pacific Northwest and Alaska
A recent Antarctica cruise with my family on the National Geographic Orion, with Lindblad Expeditions, showed me that even the tiniest travelers can enjoy glacier-themed sea adventures. A summer Alaska cruise is a top family-friendly, multigenerational travel experience. There’s plenty to do and see for the little ones, such as dog sledding and wildlife watching. I’d also like to try some glacier trekking and kayaking.
I can pick up the cruise from Seattle, a city I’ve been wanting to visit for years. Washington’s San Juan Islands are another stop I’d like to make, thanks to some adventurous whale watching and diving opportunities.
Cape Verde
I’m now officially a Portuguese resident, and I’ll soon be able to apply for my Portuguese citizenship. Cape Verde is the perfect spot to study for the Portuguese language exam that I’ll need to pass to become a citizen. I can fly nonstop to the volcanic islands from Lisbon, spending time on the beach with my kids and diving to see shipwrecks and humpback whales.
Mexico
I’d like to explore Mexican destinations such as Oaxaca and Valle de Guadalupe, and stay at the Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, a serene beachfront oasis on Mexico’s Pacific coast.
And if you’re not sure where to go in 2026?
Start with Philadelphia. I’m the official hospitality captain for FIFA World Cup 2026 in Philadelphia, my home city. Philly has so much to offer in the way of culture, cuisine and attractions — and this summer, soccer. Find out how to purchase game hospitality packages via my Instagram.
Have a great weekend,
BK
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| Photo Credit: WHITWORTH IMAGES/GETTY IMAGES. |
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