Travel advisors on what's trending for Canadian travellers and opportunities for the year ahead
Where are your clients kicking off their 2026 travels?
CDT: Many of my clients are kicking off 2026 by heading south to the Caribbean to escape the cold, because honestly, sunshine and sandy beaches never go out of style. Europe is also high on the list, especially France, which is always a favourite for food, culture and those picture-perfect moments. Africa is another dream destination this year, with more clients asking about safaris and South Africa wine tours. And of course, I’m thrilled to see more of my travellers getting ready for their very first luxury ocean cruise with Regent and Silversea. It’s such a joy helping them step into that world of effortless, all-inclusive luxury.
GH: I just love the excitement of the new year. It literally gets my heart rate pumping-without the intense workout. The cold and snow get my clients thinking about travelling to somewhere warm and sunny to rejuvenate themselves because let’s face it – Canadian winters are long! I’m finding a high demand for all-inclusive resort packages to the Caribbean, but also Costa Rica and Los Cobos are coming in hot. I feel that you can never go wrong with the all-inclusive packages as everything is included and there is nothing to worry about other than: Do we go to the pool or beach and which tropical beverage are we having next? ration trip. A new year always brings new journeys, and I can’t wait to be part of those stories.
What trends do you think will be big in the travel industry this year and why?
CDT: I think 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for travel and I’m already seeing some trends coming through with my own clients and across the industry. First, and this isn’t surprising, but travellers are looking for more authentic and meaningful experiences. People want to connect. Connect with local culture, food, traditions and real moments that go beyond the usual sightseeing checklist. Whether it’s a local baking class in France or a village visit in Africa, authenticity is something travellers are really wanting.
I’m also seeing purpose-driven travel continue to grow. Trips that are planned around why you’re going, not just where you’re going. Some are travelling to rest and recharge, which also falls into wellness travel, while others want experiences that help them slow down and really feel present and connected.
Another trend that I’m excited about is longer, slower travel, where travellers are taking the time to dig into a destination, so it doesn’t feel like a tick on a list, but rather a real experience. Clients are stretching their vacations, exploring off-peak seasons and embracing slow travel. I think this is something we can all learn and benefit from.
Lastly, unique experiences or what I like to call ‘Epic List Experiences,’ whether that’s a luxury rail journey, a hands-on watch-making workshop in Geneva or a once-in-a-lifetime safari, that’s what luxury travel is all about now. Clients are planning what I call ‘Epic-List Trips’ that feel personal, unforgettable and you guessed it, epic.
All of this means this year is going to be a year where travel feels richer, more personal, and more purposeful and I’m super excited to help my clients live those epic experiences.
GH: I’m seeing an increase in client inquiries about cruising, specifically to European and Mediterranean destinations. Travellers are looking for something more adventurous and a different experience other than the Caribbean area. Clients want history, culture, architecture and amazing food – they want to experience the scenery and see ancient roots. Instagram and Facebook-worthy on a high level.
Are there any lesser-known or emerging destinations that are seeing a rise in popularity or interest among your clients or suppliers?
CDT: Absolutely, and I have to say I love this part of my job. This is where I get to dig in and learn about places that perhaps I wouldn’t have thought of. There are several destinations that might still be under the radar for many travellers but are gaining momentum. One big theme I’m seeing (and Virtuoso highlights this as well) is that travellers want meaningful experiences in places that feel fresh, authentic, and less crowded, not just the same old hotspots. For example, some of the destinations Virtuoso is spotlighting for 2026 include European cities that feel new and exciting like Riga in Latvia, charming coastal regions of Catalonia, Spain or Cornwall in England – places that offer culture and character but without the big crowds you’d find in Paris or Rome.
There is also much interest in cooler-climate and nature-forward trips like Iceland, Antarctica – destinations with dramatic landscapes especially for seasoned travellers who’ve been there and done that and now want something different, something a bit more adventurous. Even popular regions are being rediscovered in new ways: clients are exploring lesser-visited areas of well-loved countries like the smaller Greek Islands or quiet towns in France and Italy because they’re craving those slow-paced, immersive experiences and again don’t want the crowds.
And although it’s not ‘off the map’ in the traditional sense, there’s also a growing interest around Qatar and Saudi Arabia. These destinations offer a totally new kind of luxury travel with upscale resorts and untouched nature that’s intriguing, extravagant and feels very fresh for the luxury traveller. So, while well-known favourites are still quite popular, what’s exciting for 2026 is the rise of these emerging destinations.
GH: Yes, and I love it. Destinations like Iceland and Norway are becoming more popular – travellers are looking to see natural glaciers, the fjords and the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. I literally just booked three couples on a Norwegian Cruise for two weeks because this is exactly what they want to experience. I love cruises as travellers can experience so much at each port and then move onto the next adventure in a new port.
Another off-the-grid destination that’s been booming lately is Morocco – and it’s easy to see why. If you’re craving culture, colour and pure a vibe, Morocco has it all. Get lost in the bustling Marrakech Market, escape into the magic of the iconic Chefchaouen, “The Blue City,” explore the modern-meets-traditional energy of Casablanca, with a touch of the Sahara Desert. Adventure awaits you at every corner of Morocco.
If you could change one thing about the travel industry, what would it be?
CDT: Wow, that’s a loaded question. Hmmm, if I could change one thing about the travel industry? Well, on a funny note, for the love of God can we please stop all the strikes? Nothing tests a traveller’s patience (or a travel agent’s coffee and wine intake) quite like an airline strike of some sort. Not that they’re not necessary, but honestly, I think I’ve lost years off my life. But on a more serious and professional note, I’d love to see even better communication and consistency across the industry. When airlines, hotels, cruise lines and suppliers communicate clearly and quickly especially when plans change it makes such a difference for our mutual travellers. My clients value calm, seamless journeys, and anything that improves that experience is a win in my books. At the end of the day, I just want smooth, transparent travel so my clients can simply relax, enjoy, and focus on creating epic travel memories.
GH: This is a tough one because as travel advisors I feel that we are all at the mercy of the supplier, the airline or the cruise line to some degree. I don’t think travellers realize all of the behind the scenes issues and stresses that we deal with and unfortunately usually don’t have any control of. As travel advisors we want our client’s vacations to be perfect but there are those slight hiccups or even disasters that we handle in stride. We provide reassurance to our clients to the best of our abilities – no wonder I have wrinkles. What would I change in the travel industry? I’d make a perfect travel advisor in a world with no strikes, no weather disasters, no hotel over-bookings, no system glitches, and I could go on. But we all know this is a fantasy. In the end I still love what I do and I wouldn’t change it for the world, wrinkles and all.
What tips do you have for how other advisors can increase their social media presence?
CDT: Honestly there are so many amazing agents that are doing a much better social media job than me. But I guess my biggest tip for advisors is to show up consistently and let people meet you online and what I mean by that is, social media isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being present. Inspire your viewers. They want to see your personality, hear your voice and feel your passion for travel and when you do that authentically it builds trust.
Focus your posts on what you really want to sell. Stop posting photos and videos of Cuba beaches if Cuba is not your niche. Be strategic, be creative, be authentic and have fun with it.
It’s equally important to keep your branding consistent and share valuable tips, insights and your expertise and most importantly show up as the advisor you’d want to book with. Be genuine, be helpful, and again be consistent and don’t forget to include a clear (CTA) call to action.
GH: I’m a huge believer in growing your presence on social media platforms. Social media has allowed me to grow my travel business exponentially each year in revenue, clients and referrals. From someone who didn’t even have an Instagram account when I started to having people DMing me saying ‘I’ve been following you, can you help book my vacation?’ is an eye opener to the power of social media. My advice is to get out there no matter how scared and not confident you are in posting stories or reels, people are watching and seeing you. I love to make myself personable so that clients get to know me as a travel advisor, but also as a friend or someone they can relate to. Consistent posting and being creative is key to my success. Put in the time and watch your business soar.
Do you have anything to add?
CDT: I’d just like to add that I feel incredibly grateful to do what I do. Helping my clients see the world, celebrate life’s milestones and create those ‘Epic List’ moments is something I never take for granted. Travel has changed so much over the years, but it has also stayed the same. It’s about the connection, joy, and experiences that stay with you long after you’ve returned home and unpacked your bags. I’m excited for the year ahead and all the amazing journeys my clients will take. It’s truly a privilege to be a part of their life stories and I hope to have a few of my own as well.
GH: I am grateful for all of my clients, family, friends and colleagues that have made my travel career one that I love. Without their support, I couldn’t stay motivated or continue striving to grow in this incredible industry. Cheers to my fellow travel colleagues and community.
