Curator’s statement
Luxury travel in 2026 is no longer about iconic cities or five-star checklists. It’s about places that still feel rare—even for travelers who’ve already seen the world. This guide highlights luxury travel destinations for 2026 that offer true exclusivity, depth, and access, designed for well-traveled clients seeking bespoke, high-end travel experiences that cannot be replicated or booked casually online. These journeys reflect the new era of luxury travel trends in 2026, defined by intention, expertise, and thoughtful design.
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Where to stay in Antarctica, Africa, Asia & South America
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Things to do in Antarctica, Africa, Asia & South America
National Geographic Explorer
Antarctica—Expedition cruising at the End of the World: Explore Antarctica aboard purpose-built expedition vessels, combining expert-led exploration, daily landings, and access to one of the most remote regions on Earth.
Rwanda—Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park: Experience gorilla trekking with expert guides and highly limited permits, offering rare wildlife encounters and an unmatched sense of access.
Namibia—Desert & remote landscape exploration: Travel through vast desert landscapes where silence, scale, and dramatic scenery define the journey, from towering dunes to remote wilderness areas.
Patagonia (Chile & Argentina)—Comfort-focused adventure in nature: Explore Patagonia’s glaciers, mountains, and national parks through carefully paced adventures that balance dramatic landscapes with refined lodging and thoughtful logistics.
Bhutan—Spiritual & cultural journeys: Discover Bhutan through monasteries, valleys, and living traditions, guided by local experts and shaped by a philosophy of slow, deeply rooted travel.
Uzbekistan—Silk Road cultural immersion: Discover historic Silk Road cities such as Samarkand and Bukhara with private guides who offer architectural, historical, and cultural depth.
Japan—Refined cultural & design experiences: Go beyond the obvious with ryokan stays, rural regions, and expertly guided cultural experiences defined by precision, craftsmanship, and design.
Places to eat & drink in Antarctica, Africa, Asia & South America
Cooking class at Amankora Punakha
Antarctica—Onboard expedition dining: Refined dining aboard expedition vessels, featuring regionally inspired menus, fresh ingredients, and wine pairings designed to elevate long days of exploration.
Rwanda—Lodge-based fine dining: Thoughtfully curated meals at luxury lodges near Volcanoes National Park, often incorporating local ingredients and private dining setups before or after gorilla trekking.
Bhutan—Farm-to-table lodge dining: Seasonal, locally sourced Bhutanese and international cuisine served at luxury lodges, with an emphasis on wellness, balance, and mindful dining.
Namibia—Desert lodge dining experiences: Elegant meals served in remote desert lodges, from candlelit dinners under the stars to open-air breakfasts overlooking dunes and vast landscapes.
Japan—Kaiseki & regional culinary experiences: Traditional multi-course kaiseki dining, intimate ryokans, and region-specific cuisine that reflects seasonality, craftsmanship, and precision.
Argentina & Chile (Patagonia)—Lodge dining with local wines: Rustic yet refined dining at remote lodges, featuring Patagonian lamb, seafood, and local produce paired with Argentine and Chilean wines.
Uzbekistan—Private dining & historic settings: Intimate dining experiences arranged in historic homes or boutique hotels, highlighting traditional Uzbek cuisine with elevated presentation.
Need to know
These destinations require thoughtful planning, advance permits, and experienced on-the-ground partners. Many experiences—such as gorilla trekking in Rwanda, Antarctic expeditions, and remote stays in Bhutan or Namibia—have limited availability and strict regulations, making early planning essential.
Travelers should expect journeys that prioritize quality over speed, often involving charter flights, overland transfers, or expedition-style travel rather than traditional luxury infrastructure. This is intentional and part of what makes these destinations so special.
Working with a specialist ensures access to the right lodges, guides, and timing—transforming complex logistics into seamless, deeply rewarding journeys designed around the traveler, not the checklist.
Travel Advisor
Regina Larrazolo
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