Travelers enjoy traveling alone with strangers
Solo travel with strangers is gaining in popularity as travelers seek freedom, reflection, and authentic experiences.
- USA TODAY’s travel writers recommend five destinations for 2026 based on first-hand experience.
- Destinations include North County San Diego, Gifu Prefecture, Japan, and Charleston, South Carolina.
If there’s one thing the USA TODAY Travel team never gets tired of, it’s chasing the moments that remind us why travel matters.
Over the past year, our team has taken planes, ships, and the occasional winding backroad to traverse the world, discovering places that surprise, inspire, and stay with you long after you’ve unpacked them.
From relaxing coastal retreats to bustling cities, these trips have shaped the way we think about travel in 2026. These are the kinds of destinations that offer more than just great photos. Whether you’re traveling for rest, adventure, or a reset, we offer outstanding food, rich culture, and experiences that feel meaningful.
This is not a list created based on hype or an algorithm. This comes from first-hand reporting, conversations with locals, and the places that truly move our team.
So, if you’re starting to plan where to go next year, here are five destinations that we think will shine in 2026 and are worth adding to your travel bucket list.
Spend a relaxing beach day in a coastal town
San Diego is a tried-and-true tourist destination, but consider heading north next time you visit. Earlier this year, I explored the North County coastal area where my family is. It’s a quiet and quaint place that rivals the metropolitan areas of the city.
This area is home to many seaside communities with unique views, activities, and character. Travelers can browse the boutiques and art galleries on Cedros Avenue in Solana Beach, camp at San Elijo State Beach in Encinitas, or hike at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve between Del Mar and La Jolla.
There are plenty of local coffee shops and eateries to visit along the way (don’t miss breakfast at Atelier Mana). Visitors can enjoy a relaxed pace while having easy access to famous attractions like Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo. During my stay, I was able to enjoy both the surfer town and city life.
Want to know more?Here’s the story I wrote after my visit. Lazy Beach Days: Discover San Diego’s Underrated Coastal Gems
— Nathan Diller, Travel Reporter
Escape the crowds of Tokyo and take a leisurely journey through Japan’s hidden gems
I’m sure I’m not the only one who feels like everyone I know is going to Japan. The island nation’s popularity has recently skyrocketed among travelers looking to indulge in delicious food (fresher than fresh sushi, right?), seemingly endless shopping, and rich cultural heritage, all while taking advantage of favorable exchange rates.
I jumped at the chance to visit this November and was surprised by just how much of Japan really captivated me. It was not Tokyo or Osaka, but the countryside.
I explored Gifu Prefecture, which is located in the center of Japan, as if I were on a road trip, similar to how Japanese people love to travel. Traveling through Gifu at a slower pace, soaking up the local cuisine and cultural traditions, was literally a breath of fresh air. This mountainous region is known for its spectacular fall foliage.
I was able to get to know Japan on a completely different level than when I was in the city. Add to that the fact that Japan’s hotspots like Kyoto and Mount Fuji are struggling with the effects of overtourism, and there’s no reason not to go off the beaten path.
Want to know more?Here’s the story I wrote after my visit. Avoid the crowds in Japan: Visit this hidden gem for a more authentic trip
— Kathleen Wong, Travel Reporter
this city knows its place
Charleston, South Carolina is the epitome of Southern coastal charm, with beautiful pastel buildings and cobblestone streets dating back centuries, lively restaurants filled with chatter and delicious Lowcountry cuisine, and nearby dune-dotted beaches where sea turtles nest seasonally.
But Charleston’s history also has an ugly side, tied to the slavery that made the port city rich. I don’t hesitate to do that either. Charleston remembers its past with places like the International African American Museum, Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Parks, and various former plantations that offer tours for tourists.
I love how this city has embraced its entire identity and is so quick to share it with visitors like family. My older daughter could have spent more time shopping along King Street, and my younger daughter could have spent the entire day at the beach, but no one complained about the educational opportunities all around, especially my husband and son, both history buffs. We’re all ready to go back.
Want to know more? Here’s the story I wrote after my visit. Charleston is a family vacation that even teenagers will love
— Eve Chen, travel reporter
This country is easy to visit, but hard to forget
I knew in my heart that even though I had never been to Portugal, it would be similar enough to other European destinations. At first glance, that may be true. After all, their history is closely tied to neighboring countries. But Portugal had its own charms to contend with.
A trip to Europe that will leave you feeling stimulated without getting tired. Cities like Lisbon and Porto are walkable, city trains are easy and affordable, and even small towns feel welcoming and friendly. You can move between history, beaches, wine country, and cozy cafes without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. That’s exactly why so many American travelers are hooked right now.
Portugal also offers great value. Coffee can be bought with small change, and the food is delicious without being extravagant. What really makes Portugal shine is its balance. With a beautiful coastline, postcard-perfect viewpoints like Cape Roca and Nazaré, and easy day trips to places like Sintra, Cascais and the Douro Valley, it’s easy to see why travelers say they can enjoy so many sights and activities in a short period of time.
While all things are important to consider, this trip taught me that traveling with strangers can be life-changing. For that, I will always be grateful to Portugal.
Want to know more? Here’s the story I wrote after my visit. Why Portugal is a ‘safer option’ for Americans traveling to Europe
— Josh Rivera, Travel Editor
Why West Virginia is truly “almost heaven”
Throughout 2025, I traveled to the New River Gorge region of West Virginia twice. The first was a work trip that helped me get familiar with everything the area had to offer. Then, a few months later, I returned on a personal visit to attend an LGBTQ rock climbing retreat.
I’m an outdoors person, so I loved being able to experience nature in beautiful parts of the country. West Virginia may not be every traveler’s top destination, but it should be. The state offers everything from summer whitewater rafting to winter ski slopes to year-round hiking and biking trails.
If you’re looking to get out and try a new activity, or revisit one you already love, West Virginia should be high on your list.
This state offers more than just beautiful scenery. The capital Charleston (not to be confused with Charleston, South Carolina, which my colleague Eve wrote about above) has a growing foodie scene and is an excellent gateway to the New River Gorge.
I have already started thinking about my next trip to climb again in 2026.
Want to know more? Here’s the story I wrote after my visit. From rock climbing to skiing, this hidden gem is perfect for families who love the outdoors
— Zach Wichter, Travel Reporter
