Collette Shares Top Trends, Destinations & Experiences for 2026
Local perspectives and genuine experiences. That’s what global tour operator Collette says travellers are looking for in 2026.
“As a third-generation family member to lead Collette, I’ve spent my life witnessing the transformative power of travel,” said President and CEO Jaclyn Leibl-Cote.
“What we’re seeing for 2026 is a shift toward travelers being intentional with their choices in both destination and unique experiences, creating a more meaningful connection. Today’s modern travellers aren’t focused on checking off major sights; they want a more immersive understanding of the places they visit and the people who live there. They want to spend time in real communities, learn from local perspectives, and experience a destination in a way that feels genuine and connected.”
Top travel trends, experiences and destinations for 2026 from Collette travel experts include:
Solo Adventures
Solo travel continues to grow for Collette, especially among 50+female travellers who seek personal growth and interesting experiences alongside the structure, safety, and connection of guided travel. Extended stays in walkable cities alongside flexible pace and variety also allow travellers to explore independently within the comfort of a group setting.
Popular tours for solo travel include:
Spotlight on Paris for art, cuisine, and iconic Paris charm
Spotlight on London for history, culture, and effortless urban experience
Gems of Greece: Athens, Naxos & Crete for Island serenity, ancient wonders, and Mediterranean warmth
Colors of Morocco for vibrant markets, desert landscapes, and rich cultural traditions
History and Culture Immersion
Collette says its travellers are prioritizing tours that offer historical insight, cultural traditions, meaningful connection with local and Indigenous communities, and immersive musical experiences that bring each destination’s story to life.
Popular tours include:
France Magnifique for WWII, medieval, and royal French history
The Balkans: From Coastal Croatia to Legendary Greece for war history, religious heritage, and ancient civilization.
Food as Experience
Collette says its in‑destination tour designers are deeply connected to their regional cuisines, weaving together the stories, traditions, and hidden culinary gems that make food one of the company’s signature strengths across every tour.
Featured tours include:
Essential South America including wine-paired lunches, empanada cooking classes, and amazing dinners at local restaurants.
Journey Through Northern Vietnam experiencing a Vespa-led Hanoi Food Tour, and a Lac Village Home-Hosted Dinner.
Tuscan & Umbrian Countryside featuring a local truffle hunter and dog followed by truffle tasting and a pasta demonstration.
Flavors of Portugal and Spain featuring a petiscos cooking class, Portugal’s beloved small plates, and a dinner featuring pintxos, the Basque Country’s signature small bites.
Travel That Gives Back
Collette says today’s travellers are looking for tours that honour local culture, community connection, and meaningful engagement. Responsible travel, sustainable practices, and supporting local communities are increasingly important. Collette says it shares those values and offers travel choices that support local economies, women-run enterprises, and community-based initiatives.
Featured tours and impact moments include:
Japan and South Korea Meet Japan’s ama pearl divers, experience a homestyle cooking class with the Women’s Association of Korea
Plains of Africa A vibrant visit to Ocean Sole, where discarded flip‑flops are transformed into colorful art that supports local artisans and conservation efforts.
Wonders of Thailand featuring the ethically vetted, Changchill Elephant sanctuary
Coasts and Countryside of England Visit Strawberry Field, an Iconic Beatles site supports local youth through training and employment.
Small Group and 2026 Trending Destinations
Collette travelers are increasingly prioritizing small group explorations tours and “off the beaten path” destinations to dive deeper and engage more meaningfully with local life.
Tours that caters to those priorities include:
Africa Cape Town to Cairo: The Ultimate African Experience
Ireland Countryside of the Emerald Isle
“Every year, we see travelers asking for deeper, more culturally grounded experiences. They want small-group moments, more time in local communities, and itineraries that go beyond the major sights,” said Diana Ditto, VP of Product Marketing and Growth Strategy .
“Our tours are designed by travellers, for travellers with in-market experts living and working in these destinations. It allows us to create innovative itineraries with unexpected experiences that feel personal, memorable, and meaningful.”
