5 places that mix culture, adventure and beaches, from Barbados to Vegas

Travel is changing. It’s out with all-inclusives and overcrowded hotspots, and in with adventure and under-the-radar destinations.

While lounging on a beach with a good book will never get old, the shift towards experiential and authentic travel means people want more from their holidays.

Data from the world’s leading travel firms and trend forecasters suggests that 2026 will be the year of quiet escapes, algorithm-shaped itineraries, personalised retreats and a return to slower, more intentional travel.

That means that now, more than ever, travellers are interested in connecting with local culture, exploring hidden gems, and looking after themselves, mentally and physically.

Our travel writer Sophie-May Williams looks at five places that offer a brilliant mix of adventure, culture and precious beach time, with something to suit every kind of traveller.

Barbados

The Caribbean island of Barbados is having its moment in the sun after being featured on Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel list for 2026.

Beach lovers can explore the rugged East Coast and marvel at the pink sand and cliffs of Crane Beach, recently tipped as an emerging destination by Condé Nast Traveler.

In the west, it’s all about relaxation. Swim in the turquoise waters of Mullins and Paynes Bay, where you might even spot turtles.

The Bajan capital, Bridgetown, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where historic plantations and independent boutiques sit side by side. Crop Over Festival, Barbados’ biggest summer celebration, is a vibrant, month-long carnival that takes place in the city in August. It celebrates the end of the sugarcane harvest, with Bajan music, parades, art, food, and heritage showcases.

Elsewhere, Barbados is the birthplace of rum, so it’s worth taking a tour of Mount Gay, the world’s oldest distillery. At Foursquare distillery, known for its craft production, cocktail workshops are available.

The island also boasts a vibrant ‘Culinary Capital’ food scene, fusing Caribbean and African flavours. Local favourites include fresh seafood, especially flying fish and cou-cou, the national dish.

The Maldives

The Maldives is a destination of dreams, famous for lavish overwater bungalows, cerulean waters and powdery white sands made from coral (a rarity).

The Indian Ocean atoll is made up of around 1,200 islands (110 to 120 are designated for tourist resorts), most with bombshell beaches.

And if the first ten days of January are any indication, 2026 is poised to be the most successful year in the history of Maldivian tourism.

According to the latest data from the Ministry of Tourism, the archipelago welcomed 56,832 tourists between January 1 and January 10, a 12.9% increase compared to the same period in last year.

One of the most iconic is Reethi Beach in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its lush coral reefs and world-class snorkelling.

But the Maldives isn’t just about sunbathing. Thrillseekers can scuba dive, jet ski, parasail, and surf. Wildlife lovers can swim with whale sharks and scout for dolphins on dream-like sunset cruises.

Also on offer are cultural island-hopping experiences, which give travellers a glimpse of local life. You can also visit a reef conservation project and help out if you want to do your bit for the environment.

With ambitious tourism targets set for 2026 — the government is aiming for 2.4 million visitors this year — the Maldives is no longer reserved for honeymooners.

Thailand

With a magnificent coastline of sugar-soft sands, turquoise waters and dazzling coral reefs, Thailand is a bucket list destination for good reason.

Spend hours sunbathing in Koh Kradan, voted the world’s best beach in 2023, or kayak beneath towering limestone cliffs to Railay Beach in Krabi, a jump-off point to explore more than 100 islands.

For a break from the beach, nowhere thrills like the north. In Chiang Mai, marvel at stunning golden temples, visit ethical elephant sanctuaries and trek through rice terraces and waterfalls.

In Chiang Rai, Thailand’s northernmost city and gateway to the Golden Triangle, embrace the rich Lanna culture. The White Temple is a must-see, but you can also hike in the jungle or try your hand at bamboo cooking classes.

Finally, in Bangkok — named the world’s top tourist city for 2024 — take in the vibrant street life and world-class cuisine, indulging in street stalls, night markets, and fine dining.

With strong growth projected for 2026 thanks to surging interest in sustainable, eco-friendly tourism and long-haul travel, there’s never been a better time to visit Thailand. 

UAE

Dubai is known for glamorous influencers and boozy brunches, but there’s more to the United Arab Emirates capital if you scratch the surface.

At a glance, it’s home to many world firsts and records: its skyline galaxy features Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, while the £9 billion Palm Jumeirah is one of the world’s most ambitious man-made archipelagos.

But what’s great about Dubai — ranked eighth in the World’s Best Cities for 2026 — is its diverse menu of action-packed trips, luxury hotels and boho beach escapes.

Where else can you go from swimming in the world’s deepest pool to tearing through the desert on a quad bike in 20 minutes?

Splash some cash at luxury outlets, then go spice shopping in the souk.

Elsewhere, explore the Venice of the Gulf, a waterfront community in Dubai South inspired by the ancient city. Lounge on the vibey Sunset Beach or grab lunch from a food truck on Kite Beach.

In this multicultural melting pot, you’ll never run out of things to do.

Las Vegas

Sin City, Neon City, The Entertainment Capital of the World. Call it what you want — Vegas is the ultimate party paradise.

At The Strip, check out the replica Eiffel Tower and Venetian canals, or place a bet in a casino. A highlight is the (free) Fountains of Bellagio show, as is the downtown Fremont Street Experience, a dazzling display of rambunctious beats and neon lights.

Beyond the luxury hotels and Michelin-star dining, Vegas’ desert location means there are spectacular natural wonders, too.

Head to the Red Rock Canyon just outside the city for scenic drives and hikes, or take a tour to the natural wonders of the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam.

There’s also the Valley of Fire State Park, where ancient images are carved into red sandstone formations in the Mohave Desert.

While tourism in Las Vegas slumped in 2025, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, predicts a comeback in 2026.

Go now, and see it while it’s still relatively quiet.

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