Today, we’re diving into the trends that are shaping the way travelers are exploring the world. I’m joined by my good friend Jonathan Epstein, of Celebrated Experiences, one of our partners for curating authentic and luxurious travel experiences in Europe.

We’re diving into everything from travel as a way to escape mental overload, to how people are using trips to mark life moments. We go deep on the evolution from wellness travel to overall wellbeing travel and the expansion of where and when our clients are traveling. 

It’s a fun, forward looking conversation, but a very practical one, grounded in what we’re actually seeing happen in the world right now.

Grab a drink, sit back, and enjoy this deep dive into the trends that will define how we travel in 2026.

Support the podcast by booking any of the luxury stays HERE

Listen to hear:

• 02:24 – Where things are shifting at one of our favorite destinations
• 04:08 – Why travel is becoming an antidote to mental overload
• 05:54 – How travelers are unplugging and stepping away from the digital world
• 11:39 – About the unexpected, strange, and memorable moments that happen on the road
• 21:23 – What makes travel such a powerful way to create lasting memories and stories
• 23:15 – How intention and purpose are shaping the way people plan trips
• 30:53 – Why expanded direct flight routes are changing travel behavior
• 38:10 – Where luxury travel is showing up in more places than ever before
• 50:20 – What is driving the rise in travel for tours, concerts, and live shows
• 56:38 – How AI is influencing travel trends and decision-making
• 63:09 – What comes up in a fast-paced lightning round
• 72:18 – Why curiosity and hope remain essential for travelers exploring the world