January always feels like a reset button—a moment when the world collectively pauses, exhales, and starts imagining what the next twelve months could hold. For me, this year’s reflection came with a bit of enforced stillness. After a minor hand surgery last week, I suddenly had something I don’t usually give myself: time. Time to rest, time to think, and time to ask myself the questions I often rush past.

What am I looking forward to this year?

What goals am I setting for myself—both personally and professionally?

Travel in 2026 isn’t just about ticking places off a list—it’s about savoring flavors, hearing the rhythms of local life, and collecting moments that linger long after you’ve unpacked. Here are the destinations I’m most excited to send travelers to this year, with the insider touches that transform a trip into a story worth retelling.

Forget Times Square’s glittering ball drop—why not welcome the new year with a giant potato, a moon pie, or even a marshmallow chick? Across the U.S., towns are putting their own quirky spin on New Year’s Eve, and these celebrations are as memorable as they are fun.

Two weeks ago, I shared why working with a travel agent can transform your vacation. For our December 2024 trip, I stepped into that role for my husband and me—serving as our own travel agent. Every detail was carefully planned, and the benefits I provide to my clients came to life in our journey.

The holidays, birthdays, or “just because” moments are the perfect time to surprise the adventurer in your life with something that makes their travels smoother, smarter, and more joyful. At Everyday Explorers Travel, we believe the best gifts aren’t just things—they’re tools for creating memories. Here’s our curated list of traveler-approved essentials that will delight any wanderer. We don’t just recommend these items - we use them ourselves on our journeys, so we know firsthand how much they can enhance the experience.

Imagine this: you’re dreaming of a trip to Italy. You picture yourself wandering cobblestone streets, sipping wine at sunset, maybe even learning to make pasta from a local chef. But when you sit down to plan, the excitement quickly turns into overwhelm. Flights, hotels, transfers, tours—suddenly your dream feels more like a spreadsheet.

Everyday Explorers Travel grew out of that same spirit: curiosity, delight in small things, and the conviction that travel should be accessible, joyful, and deeply personal.