Go See Do Explore

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We have a confession to make: Puerto Rico has a hold on us that we can’t quite shake. We’ve visited five times now — and we’re already plotting trip numbers six and seven. Every time we land at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport and that warm, salt-thick air hits us as we step outside, we look at each other and think, why did we ever leave?

Here’s what keeps pulling us back.

Boricua Sign Old San Juan

The Culture Runs Deeper Than You’d Expect

Puerto Rico isn’t a resort island that happens to have a few historical sites sprinkled in. It’s a place with a genuinely layered identity — Spanish colonial architecture in Old San Juan, a living Taíno heritage, African influences woven through the music and traditions, and a modern Puerto Rican creative scene that is absolutely thriving. We’ve spent entire afternoons just wandering the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, ducking into galleries and chatting with locals. The warmth people extend to visitors here feels real, not transactional. And the festivals — if you can time your trip around one, do it.

El Yunque Mountains

The Nature Will Stop You in Your Tracks

Puerto Rico packs an almost absurd amount of natural variety into a relatively small island. El Yunque — the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System — is reason enough to visit on its own. We’ve hiked to waterfalls, heard coqui frogs in the distance, and stood in a cloud at the top of a peak, all within an hour of San Juan. But the nature doesn’t stop there. The bioluminescent bays at Mosquito Bay on Vieques and Laguna Grande near Fajardo are among the brightest in the world — kayaking through water that glows electric blue around your paddle is one of those experiences that genuinely doesn’t translate to photos. Throw in dramatic karst country in the northwest, sea turtle nesting beaches, and some of the best diving and snorkeling in the Caribbean, and you start to realize that Puerto Rico rewards the curious traveler in ways that a beach-only trip never could.

The Weather Is Just Reliably, Gloriously Good

We live in the Midwest. We know cold. So there is something deeply therapeutic about a destination that offers 80-degree days and sunshine for the better part of the year — and that you can reach with a domestic flight. Puerto Rico sits just south of the hurricane belt’s most active corridors, and while storm season is real, the island’s weather is hard to beat in the winter. We’ve hiked through El Yunque in the rain and still loved every minute of it. That’s how forgiving this place is.

The Food Deserves Its Own Paragraph (Several, Actually)

Let’s be clear: Puerto Rican food is wildly underrated on the world stage, and that needs to change. Mofongo — plantains mashed with garlic — sounds humble until you taste it. Lechón from a roadside spot on the Ruta del Lechón in Guavate is the kind of meal you think about for years. We’ve had world-class steaks, delicious seafood, and rum cocktails on the streets of Old San Juan unlike anything we’ve had anywhere else. The food scene in San Juan’s Santurce neighborhood has also exploded with creative, chef-driven restaurants that would hold their own in any major city.

The Bottom Line

Puerto Rico checks every box — no passport required for US citizens, short flight times from the East Coast and Midwest, a dollar economy, and enough variety in landscape and experience to never feel like you’ve seen it all. We’ve done the beaches, the rainforest, the bioluminescent bays, and the city. And we’re still not done.

If you’ve been on the fence, consider this your sign. We’ll see you there.

Have you been to Puerto Rico? Drop your favorite spots in the comments — we’re always looking to add to the list on our next trip.

Thanks for stopping by! Check out our Go See Do Explore Podcast, available wherever you listen to podcasts. To read about some of our previous trips, visit my Trips Page. If you like my photos be sure to “like” my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram! For my list of gadgets to make your travels easier, click here.

Conquering the Mt. Britton Trail in El Yunque National Forest

By Ashleigh

On March 4, 2026

In Hiking, Travel

Hiking Mt. Britton Trail El Yunque National Forest

El Yunque National Forest is one of those places that keeps pulling you back. After skipping the Luquillo Recreation Area for a couple of years, we finally made our return — and tackled the Mt. Britton Trail for the first time since 2022. Spoiler: it did not disappoint.

The Trail Itself

Let’s set expectations right away. The Mt. Britton Trail is not long — we’re talking roughly a mile and a half — but don’t let that fool you. This trail goes up. Pretty much the entire time. The Forest Service classifies it as moderate difficulty, and sure, the distance alone might justify that rating, but your legs will definitely feel every step of that elevation gain.

What keeps it from being labeled “difficult” is probably the fact that it’s shorter than some of its neighbors. You can actually continue past Mt. Britton and push on up to El Yunque Peak, which is rated difficult. So if you’re feeling ambitious and your knees are cooperating, that’s an option worth considering.

When the Road is Closed, You Walk

Our first visit back in 2022 came with an unexpected twist: the road leading to the trailhead was closed. And not in an “obviously closed for months” kind of way — this appeared to be day one or two of the closure, because the Forest Service hadn’t even announced it yet. No signage, no warning, just a blocked road and a long walk ahead of us.

So we parked far down and hiked up the road before we even hit the actual trail. If you’re planning a trip, do yourself a favor and check the Forest Service website for any closures before you go. Also, plan to arrive early. The gates open at 8:00 AM and the parking fills out shortly thereafter.

Mt. Britton Trail

A Glimmer of Hope for La Mina Falls Trail

One genuinely exciting thing we noticed on this visit: crews were actually working on the La Mina Falls Trail. That trail has been closed since Hurricane Maria in 2017 — nearly a decade — and progress has been painfully slow. La Mina is considered one of the only easy trails in the park, so getting it back open would be a huge win for families and casual hikers visiting El Yunque.

We’re cautiously hopeful. The work was visible. That’s more than we could say before.

Mt. Britton Views

Should You Hike Mt. Britton?

Absolutely yes. It’s a manageable challenge with a serious payoff — lush rainforest scenery the entire way up. Just arrive early, lace up something sturdy, and embrace the climb.

Paddling Through Paradise: A Glass-Bottom Kayak Adventure in Condado Lagoon

By Ashleigh

On February 23, 2026

In Travel

Glass Bottom Kayak tour in Puerto Rico

There’s something magical about gliding across crystal-clear water while peering into an underwater world beneath your feet. That’s exactly what we experienced on our morning glass-bottom kayak tour in Condado Lagoon, and it turned out to be one of those unexpectedly perfect travel moments.

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We arrived early, hopeful for manatee sightings that the lagoon is known for. Our guide greeted us with news that the earlier tour had spotted one of these gentle giants, but nature doesn’t work on a schedule. Instead of disappointment, we embraced the adventure ahead, knowing that wildlife encounters are never guaranteed—and that’s what makes them so special when they happen.

Us Paddling in Condessa Lagoon

As we pushed off from shore, the glass bottom of our kayak immediately revealed a whole new dimension to our paddle. The water was so clear it felt like floating on air. Within minutes, we encountered our first wildlife: a puffer fish hovering near the lagoon floor. Watching it navigate the seagrass through the transparent kayak bottom was mesmerizing, offering a perspective you simply can’t get from a traditional boat.

The real showstopper came when a graceful ray glided beneath us, its wing-like fins creating hypnotic ripples in the sand below. Time seemed to slow as we drifted above, watching this elegant creature go about its morning routine. Our guide explained the ray’s behavior while we snapped photos through the glass, trying to capture the surreal moment.

The surprises weren’t limited to underwater life. As we paddled along the mangrove-lined shores, we spotted several iguanas basking in the morning sun, their prehistoric silhouettes creating perfect photo opportunities against the lush tropical backdrop. These scaly residents seemed unbothered by our presence, allowing us to observe them up close.

Glass Bottom Kayak Tour in Condesa Lagoon

While we may have missed the manatees this time, the tour reminded us of an important travel truth: the best experiences often aren’t the ones you plan for. Sometimes it’s the puffer fish, the ray, and the sunbathing iguanas that create lasting memories.

The Bottom Line: A glass-bottom kayak tour in Condado Lagoon offers incredible marine life viewing opportunities regardless of whether the manatees cooperate. Book the earliest tour possible for the best wildlife chances, bring waterproof protection for your camera, and remember—every paddle reveals something new. To book this tour, check out Viator.

Discovering Art and Tranquility at Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico

By Ashleigh

On February 16, 2026

In Travel

If you’re looking for a cultural escape in San Juan that offers both world-class art and peaceful outdoor spaces, the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico (MAPR) should be at the top of your list. Located in the vibrant Santurce neighborhood, this impressive museum combines Puerto Rican artistic heritage with contemporary exhibitions in a setting that’s both sophisticated and welcoming.

Inside the Museum

The museum’s permanent collection is a journey through Puerto Rico’s rich artistic history, from 17th-century religious paintings to bold contemporary works. You’ll find pieces by renowned Puerto Rican masters like Francisco Oller and José Campeche, alongside rotating exhibitions that showcase both local and international artists. The galleries are beautifully curated, with plenty of space to appreciate each piece without feeling crowded.

What I love about MAPR is how it tells the story of Puerto Rico through its artists’ eyes. The collection doesn’t just hang paintings on walls—it creates a narrative about the island’s evolution, its cultural identity, and its place in the broader art world. Plan to spend at least an hour exploring the indoor galleries, though art enthusiasts could easily lose track of time here.

Sculpture Garden at MAPR

The Sculpture Garden: A Hidden Oasis

Here’s where MAPR truly shines. Step outside into the five-acre sculpture garden, and you’ll immediately understand why this is one of San Juan’s best-kept secrets. The garden features works by prominent Puerto Rican and Latin American sculptors set among lush tropical landscaping, winding pathways, and serene water features.

This isn’t just a place to view art—it’s a place to breathe. The garden provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, perfect for a leisurely stroll or quiet contemplation. Bring your camera, because the interplay of art and nature here creates stunning photo opportunities at every turn.

Sculpture Garden at MAPR

Practical Tips

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, with extended hours on Thursdays. Admission is quite reasonable, and there’s a small café on-site if you need refreshments. The sculpture garden is particularly lovely in the late afternoon when the Caribbean light bathes everything in golden hues.

Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply seeking a beautiful space to explore, Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico delivers on both fronts. It’s the perfect blend of culture and nature that makes San Juan such a captivating destination.

Luquillo Beach: Our Favorite Day Trip from San Juan (And Why We Kept Going Back)

By Ashleigh

On February 9, 2026

In Travel

Luquillo Beach

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Some places you visit once and check off your list. Then there are those special spots that pull you back again and again. For us, Luquillo Beach became that place during our time in Santurce—so good we made the trip three times.

Getting There

The drive from Santurce to Luquillo takes about 45 minutes, heading east along PR-3 or the faster PR-66. We preferred leaving early to beat traffic and claim our spot on the beach before the weekend crowds arrived. The scenic route along the coast is gorgeous, with the El Yunque rainforest rising dramatically in the distance.

Luquillo Beach

The Beach Itself

Luquillo Beach, also called Balneario Monserrate, is everything a Caribbean beach should be. The crescent of golden sand stretches wide, backed by swaying palms and protected by a reef that keeps the waters calm and perfect for swimming. Unlike some of Puerto Rico’s more rugged beaches, Luquillo offers amenities: bathrooms, showers, lifeguards, and plenty of parking. It’s family-friendly without feeling overcrowded or overly commercialized.

Each visit, we would swim in the crystal-clear water, the kind of blue-green that doesn’t look real in photos. The gentle waves made it easy to float for hours, and we spotted colorful fish near the rocks at the beach’s eastern edge.

The Kiosks: Where the Magic Happens

But here’s the real reason we kept coming back: the kiosks. Just a little way down the beach, a long strip of over 50 colorful food stands and small restaurants line the road, each painted in vibrant Caribbean hues and pumping out different music. By our third visit, we had our favorites.

Why Three Times?

Because once wasn’t enough to try all the kiosks. Because the beach never got old. Because sometimes you need a perfect day that’s easy to reach but feels like a world away from the city. Luquillo became our reset button—our reminder of why we fell in love with Puerto Rico in the first place.

If you’re staying in San Juan, do yourself a favor: make the drive. And then make it again. To visit on a tour from San Juan, check out this tour on Viator.

Dancing Into the Sunset: Salsa on the Beach in Puerto Rico

By Ashleigh

On February 2, 2026

In Travel

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There are travel moments that etch themselves into your memory forever, and learning to salsa dance on Ocean Park beach in Puerto Rico as the sun melts into the Caribbean Sea is absolutely one of them.

Where Ocean Meets Rhythm

Ocean Park beach, nestled in the heart of San Juan’s most bohemian neighborhood, transforms into something magical as evening approaches. The daytime beach crowd disperses, the turquoise waters turn shades of amber and rose, and suddenly the sand becomes your dance floor. This isn’t your typical stuffy dance studio with fluorescent lights and mirrors – this is salsa the way it was meant to be experienced: barefoot, free-spirited, and utterly unforgettable.

The Perfect Puerto Rican Evening

Picture this: your toes sink into sand still warm from the afternoon sun, tropical breezes carry the scent of salt and nearby street food vendors, and palm trees sway overhead like nature’s own backup dancers. As the instructor counts out the basic steps – “uno, dos, tres… cinco, seis, siete” – the sky puts on its own performance, painting itself in brilliant oranges, pinks, and purples that only Caribbean sunsets can deliver.

Ocean Park beach is the ideal backdrop for this experience. Unlike the more tourist-heavy Condado or Isla Verde beaches, Ocean Park maintains an authentic, local vibe. The beach stretches wide and welcoming, with plenty of space for dancers of all levels to practice their moves without worrying about bumping into someone’s sandcastle.

More Than Just Steps

What makes beach salsa classes at Ocean Park truly special is the atmosphere. Your “classmates” might include honeymooners looking for a romantic activity, solo travelers seeking connection, or locals who simply can’t resist the pull of music and movement. The instructors bring infectious energy and patience, understanding that some students will be too mesmerized by the sunset to focus entirely on their footwork – and that’s perfectly okay.

The casual setting removes all pretense. Nobody cares if you miss a turn or step on your partner’s toes. The sound of waves provides a natural rhythm section, and if you lose track of the beat, just listen to the ocean. There’s something liberating about dancing imperfectly in such a perfect setting.

Practical Magic

Most beach salsa classes at Ocean Park run in the late afternoon, typically starting around 5:30 or 6:00 PM to catch that golden hour glow. Classes usually last 60 minutes and welcome beginners enthusiastically. No experience necessary – just bring your sense of adventure and maybe a bottle of water.

Why This Experience Matters

In a world of carefully curated Instagram moments and over-planned itineraries, dancing salsa on Ocean Park beach offers something genuinely spontaneous and joyful. It’s travel at its best – immersive, cultural, active, and completely impossible to replicate back home.

You’ll leave with sandy feet, a heart full of rhythm, and the kind of story that makes friends say, “I need to go there.” Because really, they do. You can book this salsa class and experience to magic for yourself on Viator.

Experience America’s Past Time in Puerto Rico with the Winter Baseball League

By Ashleigh

On January 26, 2026

In Travel

There’s baseball, and then there’s Puerto Rican winter baseball. If you think you’ve experienced America’s pastime, wait until you catch a game between the Santurce Cangrejeros and San Juan Senadores. This isn’t just sports – it’s a cultural immersion that belongs at the top of your Puerto Rico bucket list.

Why Winter Baseball is a Must-Do Experience

From November through January, Puerto Rico’s baseball scene comes alive with intense passion. The rivalry between Santurce and San Juan runs deep. At Estadio Hiram Bithorn in San Juan, you’re close enough to hear the crack of the bat and feel the energy radiating from passionate fans.

Tickets are refreshingly affordable at $8-25, available online or often at the gate. The stadium is a quick 10-15 minute drive from Old San Juan or Condado, with parking around $5-10. Arrive 30-45 minutes early to soak in the pre-game atmosphere.

Us at Puerto Rican winter baseball

The Real Game Changer: Food and Atmosphere

Forget overpriced stadium food. Here you’ll find authentic island cuisine – alcapurrias (fried plantain fritters), pinchos (grilled skewers), bacalaítos (codfish fritters), and tripleta sandwiches. Wash it down with ice-cold Medalla Light, Puerto Rico’s beloved local beer.

The energy is contagious from the moment you arrive. Fans decked out in orange and black for Santurce or red and blue for San Juan create a sea of color. Reggaeton and salsa blast between innings, and spontaneous dancing breaks out in the stands. This is Puerto Rico – if there’s music, there’s dancing.

The baseball itself is top-notch. You’ll see current MLB players staying sharp, prospects fighting to prove themselves, and Puerto Rican stars playing for hometown pride. The crowd is knowledgeable, vocal, and intensely loyal, with chants in Spanish creating an authentically local experience.

Why It Belongs on Your Itinerary

You can visit El Yunque and explore Old San Juan – and you should. But attending a winter baseball game offers something those tourist attractions can’t: an authentic glimpse into Puerto Rico’s sporting soul. This is where you’ll see families gathering for their weekly ritual, communities united in support, and neighborhood pride on full display.

For the price of a few mainland beers, you get world-class baseball, incredible food, infectious energy, and memories that’ll last long after your tan fades. Just remember: pick your side and embrace the passion. ¡Vamos!

Thanks for stopping by! Check out our Go See Do Explore Podcast, available wherever you listen to podcasts. To read more about this trip check out the Returning to La Isla del Encanto Trip Report. To read about some of our previous trips, visit my Trips Page. If you like my photos be sure to “like” my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram! For my list of gadgets to make your travels easier, click here.

Returning to La Isla del Encanto

By Ashleigh

On January 12, 2026

In Travel

Us in front of the Boricua sign in Old San Juan

We are back from another Holiday trip in one of our favorite destinations in the world: Puerto Rico. This year we had considered skipping our tropical vacation and had planned a road trip down south, but the idea of not going back to the island made us both sad. So, we ended up booking a last-minute trip. With the last-minute nature of our booking, rental cars were costly. So, we decided to stay in the San Juan area for the whole trip to be able to walk around and use rideshare as needed.

The first half of our stay was in Old San Juan, which is one of our favorite places on the island. Once again, because of our late booking, our favorite hotel, El Colonial, was not available, but we ended up renting an apartment right next door. Our apartment had a wonderful balcony where we were able to sit out and enjoy the sounds and sights of the walled city.

The second half of the trip was spent in the artsy Santurce neighborhood. We were able to walk to delicious restaurants and fun bars. We rented a car for a few days so we could revisit some of our favorite island sites. Ultimately, we were able to extend our reservation for less than it would have cost to book the dates originally. Obviously, this isn’t something you can always count on, but it ultimately worked out well for us.

Here is a recap of what is to come on this trip report:

Old San Juan

Rum Tour
Ferry to Cataño
Puerto Rico Winter Baseball Game

Santurce

La Ruta de Lechon
El Yunque – Mt. Briton Trail
Luquillo Beach & Kiosks
Salsa Dance Class
Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico
Glass Bottom Kayak Tour of Condado Lagoo

While we enjoyed exploring new areas of San Juan, we missed being closer to the ocean. Fortunately, there were no major issues this trip and we can’t wait to return to our favorite island again!

Our Epic 2025 Travels: From Distant Destinations to Perfect Road Trips

By Ashleigh

On December 29, 2025

In Travel

As we wrap up 2025, we’re reflecting on what might have been one of our best travel years yet. From dealing with unexpected challenges in Puerto Rico to discovering hidden gems across North America, this year brought unforgettable experiences, incredible food, and plenty of adventures with our trusty camper.

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El Morro

A Rocky Start in Puerto Rico

Our year began with quite the adventure during our annual Christmas trip to Puerto Rico. At 5 AM on New Year’s Day, I woke to the distinctive sound of power cutting out—you know that eerie moment when everything beeps, then goes silent? What followed was a 48-hour power and water outage affecting much of the island, a reminder of Puerto Rico’s fragile infrastructure since Hurricane Maria.

We ended up moving to an Airbnb with backup power and water, which salvaged the end of our trip. While we didn’t get to do everything we’d planned, it was a humbling reminder of what locals deal with regularly. Sometimes travel doesn’t go as planned, and that’s okay.

Chicago and the Travel Show

February brought our annual pilgrimage to Chicago for the Travel and Adventure Show. While we spent most of our time at the convention (where Andrew McCarthy was a standout speaker), we made time for our favorite River North neighborhood. The highlight? Three Dots and a Dash, an incredible tiki bar on Clark Street that’s become a new must-visit on our Chicago list.

Us in front of the Sueño de una tarde dominical en la Alameda Central

Mexico City: The Trip That Changed Everything

If there’s one destination that defined our 2025 travel, it was Mexico City. This trip felt different from anything we’d done before. We engaged deeply with local culture through cooking classes in someone’s home and spent time with our incredible guide, Lila, who helped us truly understand the city.

The food scene alone was worth the trip. We didn’t get sick of tacos—not even close. Every meal was phenomenal, from street food to sit-down restaurants. But what really stood out was how this trip ruined group tours for us. After experiencing three or four private tours with Lila, going back to large group experiences just didn’t feel the same. When you can ask questions freely, control what you see, and move at your own pace, it transforms the entire travel experience.

Discovering Traverse City (Again and Again)

We ended up taking three long weekend trips to Traverse City, Michigan, this year. In April, we camped at the state park. October brought a stay at the Brio Beach Inn, a boutique motel right on the beach without the resort prices. And in November, we did something completely new: a destination Thanksgiving.

Renting a house with two kitchens for our whole family eliminated all the usual holiday stress. No furniture moving, no hunting for extra chairs—just a relaxing holiday in one of our favorite places. We also discovered Blustone Vineyard on Leelanau, a fantastic winery that convinced us to join yet another wine club. At this point, wine just comes to us—we don’t buy it any other way!

Memorial Day at Watkins Glen

Our second camping trip of the season took us to Watkins Glen State Park in New York’s Finger Lakes region—the farthest we’d taken our little Runaway camper at that point. While it was a bit chilly for Memorial Day weekend in Western New York, the trip was absolutely worth it.

Watkins Glen shares a lot of similarities with the Traverse City area: stunning nature, excellent hiking, and a thriving wine region. The gorge trail at Watkins Glen is truly spectacular, with waterfalls and unique rock formations that make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. The Finger Lakes is also home to a spectacular wine scene with a lot of great wineries to explore. Our favorite wineries in the area are probably Red Tail Ridge and Billsboro.

St. Louis Cathedral at Sunset

New Orleans: A Culinary Love Affair

Our long weekend trip to New Orleans was absolutely unforgettable. Chris worked remotely for part of the trip, but that didn’t stop us from experiencing the incredible food scene that makes this city legendary.

Commander’s Palace stands out as one of the best meals I’ve ever had—and I don’t say that lightly. Everything about the experience was exceptional. But New Orleans isn’t just about fine dining. We also visited Dooky Chase, a historic restaurant that’s been serving soul food and Creole cuisine for generations. Every meal in this city was phenomenal.

What strikes me about New Orleans is how the food is woven into the culture itself. You’re not just eating—you’re experiencing history, tradition, and innovation all on one plate. The city has a way of making every meal feel special, whether you’re at a white-tablecloth restaurant or grabbing something casual.

Runaway Rangerunner at Cyprus Lake Campground in Bruce Peninsula National Park

The Epic Summer Road Trip

Our three-week summer camping adventure was the longest we’d ever stayed in our camper. Starting in Ontario’s Bruce Peninsula National Park (pro tip: Parks Canada opens all reservations at once in early winter—mark your calendars or sites book up!), we made our way through Algonquin Provincial Park, where we tackled a 10+ mile kayak journey to lunch on a remote island.

Montreal captivated us with its culture, history, and incredible food. Poutine and smoked meat became dietary staples. The city earned a spot on our return list.

Maine, particularly Acadia National Park, was transformative. It’s funny how certain places affect you—this was my second visit to Acadia that coincided with major life transitions. There’s something about that place that inspires change and reflection.

Comerica Park 2025 ALDS Game 3

Detroit Days

We fell in love with Detroit this year, taking numerous day trips and even our first overnight stay. From Tigers playoff games (despite a three-hour rain delay and frozen toes) to discovering treasures at Eastern Market, from seeing “Back to the Future: The Musical” to finding Roasting Plant Coffee, Detroit kept surprising us.

The city’s Mexicantown became a frequent stop, with La Jaliscience and its unique taqueria-supermarket combo earning regular visits. And that Italian-Mexican fusion restaurant, El Barzon? Phenomenal food with an amazing patio we’ll definitely return to when it’s warm. One of the highlights was my birthday dinner at Alpino, the Alpine-inspired restaurant in Corktown.

Plane Wing

Looking Ahead

As we move into 2026, we’re already planning more adventures. We learned that long weekends are an efficient way to maximize PTO, that private tours are worth the investment, and that sometimes the best trips are the ones closest to home.

Our flyer stats might be sad this year (only six flights!), but we’re ready to change that. After subsidizing our truck purchase by staying closer to home, it’s time to spread our wings again—literally.

What made 2025 special wasn’t just the destinations, but how we approached travel. We took our time, engaged deeply with places, and weren’t afraid to return to favorites or extend stays when we weren’t ready to leave. That’s the kind of travel that sticks with you.

Here’s to 2026 and whatever adventures it brings. If you want to hear more details about any of these trips, read the past articles on the blog or check out our individual episode recaps on the podcast.

What were your favorite travel moments from 2025? Share them in the comments below!

7 Travel Trends That Will Shape Your 2026 Adventures

By Ashleigh

On December 22, 2025

In Travel, Travel Tips

Planning your travels for next year? Skyscanner recently released their predictions for 2026, and the future of travel looks more personalized, experiential, and surprisingly literary than ever before. Here’s what we learned from diving deep into their latest report.

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Social media is reshaping how we travel, and beauty trends are leading the charge. According to Skyscanner, 31% of travelers have tried to keep hotel beauty products, while 24% shop duty-free specifically for skincare and makeup. The real story here? Gen Z is driving a new kind of wellness tourism, with 33% planning to seek out beauty treatments and skincare stores while traveling in 2026—compared to just 8% of baby boomers.

This isn’t entirely new territory. Think of it as an evolution of the old Hot Springs resort culture, just with a modern, TikTok-influenced twist. Whether you’re hunting down Korean beauty products or scheduling an in-flight skincare routine, beauty is becoming a legitimate travel motivator.

Here’s a statistic that surprised us: 55% of American travelers say they always or often visit local supermarkets when traveling abroad. We’re completely guilty of this ourselves—from hunting down Old Dutch popcorn twists in Canada to exploring the mind-blowing pasta aisles in Italian grocery stores.

Why do we love this? It’s one of the best ways to understand local culture without spending restaurant prices. You get to see what locals actually eat, discover regional specialties you can’t get at home, and feel like more than just a tourist passing through.

Mountain vacations aren’t just for ski season anymore. A whopping 80% of travelers are considering mountain escapes for summer or fall 2026, drawn by peace and quiet (62%), clean air and cooler weather (60%), and beautiful remote accommodations (57%). Hotel bookings using Skyscanner’s “room with a mountain view” filter are up 103% globally.

While we’ll admit we’re more water people than mountain people, we can absolutely see the appeal of escaping to higher elevations for fresh air and stunning vistas.

This trend feels straight out of a book lover’s dream. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of fictional heroes, visiting beautiful bookshops and libraries, or planning a reading retreat, literature is shaping travel decisions. Fifty-five percent of travelers have booked or would consider booking a trip based on literature.

Think Outlander fans descending on Scotland, or the surge of visitors to locations mentioned in trending books. The Gilmore Girls effect is driving interest in New Haven, Connecticut for the show’s 25th anniversary celebrations in 2026.

Family travel isn’t new, but it’s definitely growing. The data shows 52% of Gen Z adults have traveled with their parents (let’s be honest—probably because parents are paying), while 37% have done three-generation trips with parents and grandparents. Hotel bookings using family filters are up 66%.

There’s real value in these shared experiences, even if the youngest generation is getting a financial assist. Travel creates memories that last across generations.

Solo travel is booming, but with an interesting twist—people are traveling alone specifically to meet others. Fifty-three percent of travelers have gone or considered going overseas specifically to meet people for friendship or dating. It’s less about being alone and more about being open to new connections without the distractions of home.

Hotel bookings using the solo filter have jumped 83% globally, proving that independent travel isn’t slowing down anytime soon.

Finally, travelers are choosing destinations based purely on the accommodation. Fifty-six percent of travelers have picked where to go based solely on where they’d stay. This is partially a comeback of the classic resort vacation model, but with a modern twist—people want unique, Instagram-worthy properties that set the tone for their entire trip. We can relate to this after our stay at the amazing Hotel Per La in Los Angeles.

Looking for specific destinations? Skyscanner highlights Limon, Costa Rica (searches up 286%), Jaipur, India (up 107%), and Bodrum, Turkey as trending spots. For budget-conscious travelers, São Paulo, Singapore, and Venice are showing significant flight price drops.

The bottom line? Travel in 2026 will be more personal, more experiential, and more about meaningful connections—whether that’s with a good book, a local market, or fellow travelers on the road. Where will you explore next year?