Hidden Travel Gems for 2026 & 2027
20/10/2025
At Hays Travel, we believe the world still holds some secret gems. Dreamlike destinations that offer wonder, connection, and a touch of magic for travellers seeking a fresh perspective on our wonderful world. The kind of places that stay with you long after you’ve unpacked your suitcase. So, if you’re dreaming of new horizons, searching for those hidden gems around the globe, or simply switching off somewhere new, let this be your travel wish list for 2026 and beyond.
Fiji – A Soft Coral Daydream in the South Pacific
Fiji is a real-life dream, where turquoise waters stretch as far as the eye can see, and life flows to the rhythm of gentle waves. This South Pacific paradise is made up of over 300 islands, and every single one feels like its own private escape.
But beyond its sugar-white sands and dreamy overwater bungalows lies an underwater world like no other. Coined as the Soft Coral Capital of the World, Fiji is a diver’s dream. Snorkel or scuba dive through kaleidoscopic reefs, swim alongside shimmering marine life, and let the warm Pacific waters lull you into a timeless dance among coral gardens swaying with the ocean's surges and flows.
Above the waterline, Fiji is just as captivating. Explore traditional villages, hike through lush jungle trails, and experience the famous Fijian hospitality, where every "Bula!" (hello!) is said with a smile.
Antarctica – A Frozen Frontier Like Nowhere Else on Earth
Towering blue glaciers, sculpture-like icebergs, and mirror-still seas create a surreal landscape that few have ever seen in person. If you're wondering where to travel in 2026 or 2027 that truly feels like stepping onto another planet, look no further than Antarctica- the last great wilderness. Vast, remote, and breathtakingly beautiful, this icy continent is one of the world’s most extraordinary hidden gems.
Adventure pulses through every experience here, and its wildlife encounters are the stuff of legend. Zip through frozen bays in zodiacs, hike across snow-covered ridges, wander among thousands of waddling penguins, glide silently past sleeping seals on drifting floes, or simply stand in awe of the sheer silence and space. This is a destination untouched by time, where nature reigns and every moment feels sacred.
Sri Lanka – An Island of Colour, Culture & Coastlines
Sri Lanka sees golden beaches meet misty mountains, and ancient ruins that whisper stories of centuries past. Often overlooked in favour of its famous neighbours, this teardrop-shaped island in the Indian Ocean is bursting with reasons to visit.
Home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a culture rich in deep-rooted traditions, Sri Lanka is a treasure trove for history lovers. Think sacred temples, ancient cities, and legendary fortresses like Sigiriya rising from jungles when allusive leopards and elephants roam. But it’s not all stone and story.
You’ll also find serenity here, in quiet tea plantations, palm-lined beaches, and coral reefs brimming with marine life. Plus, a unique culture of buzzing street food scenes and warm hospitality that makes every moment feel alive. Its relatively compact size makes it an easy and rewarding destination to explore.
Oman – Desert Dreams & Hidden Oasis Escapes
For travellers seeking the road less travelled, Oman is a revelation. A land where sand dunes stretch to the sky, mountains carve dramatic silhouettes against the horizon, and age-old traditions hum beneath modern cities, Oman’s charm lies in its timeless beauty.
Unlike its glamorous neighbours in the UAE, Oman has preserved its ancient soul. Wander through ancient souks, visit medieval forts, and sleep beneath a blanket of stars in the Wahiba Sands desert. Or cool off in Wadi Bani Khalid, a true oasis with emerald pools, waterfalls, and lush palms hidden deep within the arid landscape.
With over 3,000km of coastline, Oman is also a haven for beach lovers, divers, and dolphin spotters. If you're wondering where to go in 2026 or 2027 that offers culture, nature, and adventure, Oman should be high on your list.
Ready to Plan Your Dream Trip?
If 2025, 2026 or 2027 is your year to explore further, dive deeper, and find hidden treasures across the globe, we’d love to help. Browse our latest Worldwide Brochure or speak with one of our travel experts! Whether you're flying solo, adventuring as a couple, or exploring as a family, we can tailor your dream trip.