Travel in 2026 and 2027: Where to Go, What’s Changing, and How to Book Smarter

Two years of travel are overlapping right now. The rest of 2026 is a good moment to take a trip before the crowds of next summer, while 2027 already has a major draw on the calendar and some changes to entry rules that are worth understanding before you book.

1. Europe’s entry rules are still in flux

Many travelers have been waiting for ETIAS, the online pre-authorization for visitors from visa-exempt countries heading to Europe. The EU has pushed its launch from late 2026 into 2027, and the fee has risen to 20 euros. Until further notice, travelers don’t need pre-authorization for Schengen visits. The official portal says no applications are being collected, and a start date will be announced only several months ahead. EU postpones ETIAS travel authorization to 2027 +2

Separately, the biometric Entry/Exit System began full operation in April 2026, and reports of long queues and missed flights at major airports mean it pays to build extra buffer time into connections and avoid tight same-day transfers. insideflyerinsideflyer

What to do: book now if you like, but keep your plans flexible for 2027, and only use the official EU portal when applications open.

2. The “eclipse of the century” is a reason to plan early

On August 2, 2027, a total solar eclipse will cross the Atlantic, southern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. It will be the longest total eclipse visible from land until 2114, with maximum totality of 6 minutes 23 seconds. Luxor, Egypt sits almost on the centreline, and the Nile Valley’s August skies are among the most dependable in the world. Spain and Morocco also fall in the path, with over four minutes of totality at many spots. these are the best places to see the 2027 total solar eclipse +2

Demand is already showing: many eclipse-timed Nile cruises are sold out. One guide suggests booking accommodation and regional transport 12 to 18 months ahead, and warns that August daytime temperatures in Egypt routinely top 104°F. total solar eclipse 2027 where to go +2

For a more comfortable base in Europe, look at hotels in Spain, where coastal southern cities suit a short eclipse trip. Remember to use certified solar viewing glasses, since it isn’t safe to look at the sun directly during the partial phases. space

3. Southern Europe: still the best all-round value

If you want a classic trip without extreme heat or inflated prices, shoulder seasons (April to June, September to October) remain the sweet spot. Good starting points:

• Greece: island hopping and mainland history. Browse Greece hotels.
• Croatia: coastal towns and national parks. Browse Croatia hotels.
• Italy: cities, lakes, and food-led travel. Browse Italy hotels.
• Turkey: culture, coast, and often strong value. Browse Turkey hotels.

4. Warm-weather escapes in Asia and the Indian Ocean

For winter sun and beach-and-culture trips, these remain popular:

• Thailand for islands, food, and flexible budgets
• Vietnam for a mix of cities, coast, and countryside
• Singapore as an easy, polished stopover or short break
• Mauritius and the Seychelles for honeymoons and slower-paced beach stays
• India for heritage, hill stations, and festivals

5. City breaks that never go out of style

Short trips continue to work well for people with limited leave: Dubai for warm winter weather and shopping, London for theatre and museums, and New York for a classic big-city weekend.

6. A practical booking checklist for 2026-2027

1. Check passport validity (many countries want six months remaining) before booking anything.
2. Prefer free-cancellation rates while entry rules and flight schedules are still shifting.
3. Compare room options by location, not just price. A cheaper hotel far from transit can cost more in time and fares.
4. Read recent guest reviews, focusing on the last few months.
5. Book flights and hotels together where it helps, or compare them separately. You can browse flights and car rentals alongside hotels on the same site.
6. Buy travel insurance that covers cancellations and medical care, especially for trips involving heat, altitude, or remote areas.
7. Use only official government sites for visas and authorizations, and avoid third-party sellers.

For a general comparison of booking platforms, see this overview of hotel booking websites, and for more destinations visit the eFlyto hotel directory.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need ETIAS for Europe in 2026?
No. As of October 2026, it isn’t in operation and applications are closed, with a launch now expected sometime in 2027.

When is the total solar eclipse in 2027?
August 2, 2027, visible across parts of southern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.

When should I book hotels for the eclipse?
As early as possible. Hotels along the path of totality, and Nile cruises in particular, are already filling.

Is it cheaper to book far ahead or last minute?
It varies by destination and season. Free-cancellation bookings let you secure a room now and rebook if prices drop.