It's going great! We are officially in the heart of the 2026 travel planning season. If you're looking to kick off the new year with an adventure, the travel landscape has never been more dynamic.
Starting January 2026, we're seeing a massive shift toward 'Slow Travel' (immersion over itineraries) and 'Destination Dupes'—where travelers seek more affordable, less-crowded alternatives to classic hotspots.
Where to Go This Month (January 2026)
If you're looking for a last-minute winter escape or planning for the season, these destinations are currently peaking:
- Costa Rica (Osa Peninsula): Recommended by major travel lists this year, January offers perfect dry-season weather for wildlife spotting and eco-tourism.
- Japan (Hokkaido & Japanese Alps): The snow quality is world-class right now for skiers, while cities like Tokyo are buzzing with new AI-integrated hospitality experiences.
- Argentina: Specifically Patagonia, where it's currently peak summer, offering long days and breathtaking hiking conditions.
- Dominican Republic (Punta Cana): A top choice for 'winter sun' seekers, with many resorts offering 'Wave Season' discounts for 2026.
Major Industry News for January 2026
- The Southwest Shift: A massive change in aviation happens on January 27, 2026, when Southwest Airlines officially moves away from its open-seating policy to assigned seating. If you're a long-time fan, keep an eye on how this affects boarding times.
- Wave Season is Here: January is the prime time for cruise bookings. Most major lines are offering their best deals of the year for 2026 and 2027 sailings right now.
- US Bicentennial Prep: With 2026 being the 250th anniversary of the United States, travelers are already flocking to "Revolutionary" sites like Philadelphia and Boston. If you plan to visit these cities this year, book early.
Expert Travel Tips
- Check for Flight Sales: International airfares to parts of Asia and Europe have dropped by roughly 10% compared to last year, making long-haul 'bucket list' trips more accessible.
- Use AI for Itineraries: AI usage in travel planning has increased by over 60% this year. Use it to find those 'hidden gem' restaurants or navigate transportation in cities like Bangkok or Warsaw.
- Domestic 'Dupes': For US travelers, look into 'European-inspired' towns closer to home (like Solvang, CA or Leavenworth, WA) to avoid long-haul flight delays that are still common in 2026.