Creating a "Must-Visit" or "Hot List" for 2026: A Step-by-Step Guide for Travel Advisors

As a travel advisor, one of the most effective ways to engage your audience and position yourself as an expert is by curating a "must-visit" or "hot list" for the upcoming year. These lists not only inspire your clients but also showcase your knowledge of emerging trends, destinations, and experiences. With 2026 on the horizon, now is the perfect time to start crafting your list.

Here’s a step-by-step methodology to help you create a compelling and actionable hot list that resonates with your clients and drives bookings.  

Step 1: Reflect on Emerging Travel Trends  
Start by analyzing the latest travel trends and consumer behaviors. For example, trends like "purposeful and experience-driven journeys," "climate-conscious getaways," and "value-conscious exploration" have been shaping travel decisions in recent years. Travelers are increasingly seeking authentic experiences, cooler climates, and destinations that offer great value for their money. Understanding these trends will help you identify destinations and experiences that align with what travelers are looking for in 2026.  

Additionally, consider niche trends such as "star-chasing tourism," where travelers plan trips around concerts, sporting events, or cultural phenomena. This trend is particularly popular among younger travelers and can be a unique angle for your list.  

Step 2: Leverage Industry Insights and Data  
Tap into industry reports, supplier updates, and travel trend analyses to identify destinations gaining popularity. Tools like Google Trends and reports from organizations like the World Travel & Tourism Council can provide valuable data on emerging destinations and travel styles.  

Collaborate with supplier partners to gain insights into their most popular or newly launched products. For example, luxury programs like Accor’s HERA or Hilton for Luxury offer exclusive benefits that can make certain destinations more appealing to your clients.  

Step 3: Define Your Audience and Niche  
Your hot list should reflect the preferences and needs of your target audience. If you specialize in family travel, focus on destinations with family-friendly activities and accommodations. For luxury travelers, highlight high-end experiences and exclusive properties. By aligning your list with your niche, you’ll ensure it resonates with your clients and positions you as an expert in your field.  

Step 4: Curate a Balanced Selection of Destinations  
A well-rounded hot list should include a mix of domestic and international destinations, as well as a variety of travel styles.

For example, you might feature:  
-Adventure Destinations: Highlight places like Patagonia or Iceland for their breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities.  
-Cultural Hotspots: Include cities like Tokyo or Bordeaux, which offer rich cultural experiences and culinary delights.  
-Value Destinations: Suggest affordable yet captivating locations like Krakow, Poland, or Portugal, which continue to attract budget-conscious travelers.  
-Emerging Destinations: Introduce lesser-known gems that are gaining traction, such as Nha Trang in Vietnam or Curacao in the Caribbean.  

Step 5: Incorporate Personal and Client Experiences  
Nothing builds trust and engagement like sharing personal travel stories or client success stories. If you’ve recently visited a destination or planned a memorable trip for a client, include it in your list. Highlight unique experiences, such as a hidden gem restaurant or an off-the-beaten-path excursion, to add authenticity and relatability to your recommendations.  

Step 6: Use SEO and Content Marketing Strategies  
Optimize your hot list for search engines by incorporating relevant keywords, such as "top destinations for 2026" or "must-visit places next year." This will help your blog rank higher in search results and attract more readers. Additionally, use storytelling to create an emotional connection with your audience. Share why each destination made the list and what makes it special.  

Step 7: Promote Your Hot List Across Multiple Channels  
Once your list is complete, share it widely to maximize its impact. Post it on your blog, share snippets on social media, and include it in your email newsletters. Use visually appealing images and videos to capture attention and drive engagement. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are particularly effective for showcasing travel inspiration.  

Step 8: Engage and Follow Up with Your Audience  
Encourage your audience to interact with your hot list by asking for their opinions or inviting them to share their travel plans for 2026. Use this engagement as an opportunity to start conversations and identify potential leads. Follow up with personalized recommendations based on their interests, demonstrating your expertise and commitment to their travel dreams.  

Final Thoughts  
Creating a "must-visit" or "hot list" for 2026 is more than just a marketing exercise—it’s a chance to inspire your clients, showcase your expertise, and drive bookings. By following this methodology, you’ll craft a list that not only captures the imagination of your audience but also positions you as their go-to travel advisor.