Virtually all respondents in an American Express Travel survey this summer said they plan to take a vacation in the next year, and 89% said they feel more excited to travel when they are going to a hotel or destination they have never visited.
Amex Travel’s recently published 2026 Trending Destinations list offers inspiration for both off-the-beaten path and tried-and-true locales, from a small fishing town to unforgettable mountain ranges to colorful cities rich with entertainment and culture. It is based on global American Express Card Member travel bookings in 2025 and insights from Amex Travel’s global network of travel consultants.
Eighty-seven percent of survey respondents said they want to book hotels that have locally inspired elements, specific to the destination they are visiting, and 79% consider unique itineraries or accommodations to be important when booking a trip.
Seven in 10 respondents ranked food and the social scene among their top three considerations, followed by 59% who cited entertainment and sports events. Millennial and Generation Z participants said family-friendly spaces and offerings are one of the most important considerations.
Amex Travel conducted the survey on line in July among 2,083 adults with a household income of more than $50,000 per year who travel by plane at least once a year.
See the accompanying gallery for Amex Travel’s 10 trending destinations for 2026.
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