If there’s one thing busy professionals know, it’s how hard it can be to step away from work and truly recharge. But in 2026, more travelers are getting strategic—making every vacation day count by planning smarter, earlier, and with more intention.

As a physician myself, I understand how hard it is to truly unplug—and how essential it is for our well-being. That’s one of the reasons I started MMarkham Travel: to help people like me (and like many of our clients) make the most of the time we do have, without the stress of planning every detail.

Whether it’s a long holiday break, a wellness reset, or a romantic weekend away, here are five key luxury travel trends for 2026 —and how to take advantage of them.

1. Holiday Travel Is the Smartest Way to Maximize Time Off

When vacation days are limited, leveraging school breaks and holidays can make all the difference. We’re seeing more travelers plan their biggest trips around Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, and Spring Break—not just for convenience, but to extend their time away without using extra PTO.

Yes, holiday travel often comes with higher price tags—but the tradeoff is time: more days to unwind, reconnect, and explore. Whether it’s a beachfront villa in the Caribbean, a family-friendly resort in Costa Rica, a New Zealand adventure, or a European Christmas market tour, early planning helps secure the best flights, room categories, and experiences.

2. Wellness Travel Is Evolving (and in High Demand)

Burnout is real, and travelers are craving more than just relaxation—they want rejuvenation. In 2026, luxury wellness travel is moving beyond the spa menu to offer fully immersive, restorative experiences that support mental, emotional, and physical well-being. After leading retreats at Miraval for women physicians, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful a few days of intentional rest can be. It’s not indulgent—it’s necessary.

Top picks for this kind of intentional travel include Castle Hot Springs in Arizona, Miraval (with locations in Arizona, Austin, and the Berkshires), and Canyon Ranch. These properties strip away decision fatigue and offer holistic programs tailored to your goals—from stress relief and better sleep to mindfulness and movement. These resorts book quickly, especially during holiday periods and spring break—so advance planning is key.

3. Couples’ Getaways Are Getting Shorter, Smarter, and More Luxe

Even if you only have a weekend, it can feel like a full vacation—when done right. Many couples are carving out 3–4 day escapes that pack in luxury, privacy, and inspiration.

Some favorite destinations for 2026 include:

Jade Mountain in St. Lucia – for iconic ocean views and private infinity pools

Amangiri in Utah – a desert escape blending spa serenity and architectural drama

Cap Juluca in Anguilla – a refined yet laid-back Caribbean hideaway

Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort – Adults-only wellness retreat with personalized programs—great for couples wanting connection and restoration.

When time is short, it matters even more that every detail is tailored. A travel advisor helps you secure the perfect room, unlocks exclusive perks through programs like Virtuoso and our private hotel collection, and curates your stay so every moment of your getaway feels indulgent and unforgettable.

4. One or Two Big Trips—Planned with Intention

While many busy professionals are still carving out time for short getaways, they’re increasingly prioritizing one or two longer, well-planned vacations each year—trips that offer deeper immersion, more meaningful experiences, and a true sense of renewal. These are deep-dive journeys—not whirlwind tours—where each stop is meaningful, each day is purposeful, and each experience reflects your style.

Think multi-country Europe, an immersive Japan itinerary, or a scenic rail journey through the Alps. With thoughtful planning, these become true reset moments—helping you return with fresh energy and incredible memories.

5. High-Touch Travel Planning > DIY or AI

With endless online options and AI-generated itineraries, it’s easy to fall into overwhelm. In 2026, many professionals are recognizing that real luxury starts with how the trip is planned.

Personalized, high-touch service—where your preferences, pace, and priorities come first—isn’t something you can replicate with a search engine. Working with a trusted travel advisor saves hours of research and ensures your trip reflects you, not an algorithm.

Looking Ahead to 2026

However you choose to spend your vacation days in 2026—on a beach with your partner, soaking in hot springs, or traveling across continents—the key is planning ahead. The best experiences, flights, and hotels often go to those who act early.

Ready to make the most of your 2026 travel? Whether you’re envisioning a holiday escape, a couples’ weekend, or a wellness retreat, our team would love to help bring it to life. Let’s start the conversation.