2026 holiday destinations are now a priority if not already arranged. We are now approaching April 2026, almost 3 months since Christmas. I swear time is moving quicker than it was 30 years ago, obviously an age thing!
Anyhow, I have put together a top 10 list for the best 2026 holiday destinations to be considered, suiting most across a spectrum to visit this year. Some are hidden gems that I frequent again and again.
The recommendations are separated into categories, scored, to suit singles, couples, families, relaxation, activities, location and cost.
Just my personal experience. Feel free to comment or ask any questions and please follow for more. It helps a great deal, thank you in advance.
For more holiday swimwear see here
In no particular order.
Turkey, Antayla, Mardan Palace (Lara Beach)
The Mardan Palace is exactly as its name suggests. Located on Lara Beach, Antalya in Turkey this hotel is amazing and has everything you could possibly require for couples and families alike. It possesses the kerb-style appeal required when leaving your transfer that everybody else wishes they were staying.
A 4.8 rating on Trustpilot and 5* rated the place is impressive on arrival. Located along the Lara Beach stretch of Antalya, this all-inclusive resort has everything. A requirement, as there isn't much going on beyond resorts in this region. Golf choice is amazing, but that aside, off-site includes a few shopping malls and many boutique offerings. Alot of counterfeit high-end brands but they are not all within distance by foot and in my experience wasn't really worth the effort.
If it suits, there is never a need to leave the resort. It has everything for couples/families. Many pools, a private beach, waterpark, children's entertainment, nightclub, bars, restaurants, shops, fast-food, night-time entertainment and shows.
If you're happy to remain on-site, The Mardan Palace is excellent. The private beach is glorious with regular excursions to near-by caves, water-sports etc. The pools are fantastic during day-time with lots going on but also quieter enclaves to cater for all. Evening dining and entertainment is a consistently high-standard.
The staff are fantastic, it is immaculate, several levels of accommodation to choose from, but, this is placed at the higher end of 'all-inclusive' . Absolutely perfect for families, great for couples, not really a place for a singles holiday. Recommended.
See more of the Mardan Palace
Couples 5/5. Families 5/5. Singles 2/5. Relaxation 4/5. Activities 4/5. Location 3/5. Cost 3/5
Conclusion: Not for singles, great for couples and families, lots to do if on-site only is acceptable. Relaxing, medium-expensive to go but cheap when you're there, especially all-inclusive. Excellent standards and service. Recommended.
Best times to visit Apr-Sept
Spain, Marbella PYR (Puerto Banus)
A perfect location situated on the immediate peripheral of the port of Puerto Banus and only a few kilometres from Marbella . The PYR is an ideal location for singles, couples and golfing holiday enthusiasts. Its central location, within 5 mins walk of the port and nightlife, 5 mins walk from central shopping mall and restaurants and in the middle of a host of amazing golf resorts. This accommodation is an excellent choice for groups, singles and couples.
The accommodation is modest, above average and clean with all amenities. The on-site pool has a bar and restaurant, lively and fun during the day but not 'loud'. The PYR is a sleeping hub for a mixed group of guests golfing, holidaying and partying. Its not a 'nutty' party vibe. A little more civilised, just popular and walking distance central to everything in and around Puerto Banus. In the port the nightlife is mixed. Mainstream bars/clubs down an alley back from the port. The more exclusive are on the port (but expensive) lots of Gucci, Prada, Ferrari, Rolex (and more) influence.
I never had breakfast in the hotel as there was so much to choose from on the doorstep but it appeared well presented polite and efficient. The early mornings just full of golfers ready for the day. Daytime at the pool was light-hearted fun with small group interactions just suiting exactly what they required. Ideal for singles and couples, party groups, golfers, general travel exploring the area. Would not recommend for families as such. It wasn't bad, just not much to keep children entertained (not really their target clientele).
This is a perfect location in close proximity to Puerto Banus whatever your purpose for visiting. Its not 'retirement' territory, nor 'a family of four', but everything in between, not 'no frills' but neither 'plush', somewhere in between. Rated 4* but debateable? No complaints for what it is. I've stayed there over and over again.
Perfect swimwear can be found here
Couples 3/5. Families 2/5. Singles 4/5. Relaxation 3/5. Activities 3/5. Location 4/5. Cost 4/5
Conclusion: Not really for families, great for couples, singles, perfect for groups, lots to do if location central is essential. Relaxing, low in-expensive to go but medium expensive when you're there, dependent on the bars/restaurants you visit. Medium standards and service. Still recommended. Perfect for the younger generation wanting a fantastic Marbella experience or golfing groups wanting a mix of both.
Best times to visit May-Sept
Australia, Hillarys Harbour, Perth
For most, no matter where you are travelling from, Australia will be a distant destination. If you are making the effort, I would recommend seeing it all whilst you're there. Though Australia itself involves extensive travel to include coast to coast. The main attraction being Sydney. There are other less popular destinations to consider. We found Perth, WA, being an example.
Located on the South-West of Australia, Perth became a convict station for westerners from the 1850s and home to Fremantle Prison. One of WA most fascinating and cultural attractions.
It has since grown, developed and become one of the most desirable places to live. With beautiful beaches stretching along the coastline, boasting the greatest of Australian vineyards, the amazing golf courses (shout out to Joondalup Resort), but more admirable is the Australian hospitality and good nature. Its American positivity combined with UK reality. Not overbearing, un-natural. Just what 'real' being friendly is and ought to be.
If I could and was young enough this is where I would live. However, and there is a caveat.
Its expensive.
Eating and drinking out...£50-100/person on a cheap night. Probably akin to London or LA prices I suppose. Its just a better experience. It feels detached from any global issues, its pleasant, feels untouched by politicians at the moment or so it feels.. May it stay that way. Feels right.
There is lots to see and do. Perth City Centre holds host to lots of attractions, golf, vineyards, historical interests, for petrol heads there are race-tracks everywhere.
A car is essential to get around, even though the bus and rail network is excellent for certain locations.
Apart from the City Centre, Hillarys Harbour and Mindarie Marina are great places to spend the day with live entertainment, food, drinks, stalls etc. The accommodation at Hillarys is superb. For a few days? Recommend you travel, hire a car or mobile home. Just note south of Perth is only about 3 hours , then coast. North of Perth is 2 hours (ish) (maybe), then desert. West the sea, East the desert. It is literally in a corner, but a nice one.
Great for couples and families. Whilst this place was amazing, not one for singles. I will also add, its not really a holiday destination? It feels more like somewhere to live, not visit? Then, that said, its a great location for lifetime surfers/travellers. There is alot on offer.
Hillarys Harbour Accommodation
Couples 4/5. Families 5/5. Singles 2/5. Relaxation 3/5. Activities 4/5. Location 3/5. Cost 2/5
Conclusion: Not for singles, great for couples and families, lots to do but a hire car is essential to see what Perth has to offer. Relaxing, medium-expensive to go, expensive whilst you're there. Excellent standards and service. Recommended.
Italy, Sorrento
This is a bit of a subjective wild card for me. If you have never been, its a must. Very popular in the 90's but overtaken by new locations, most recent example being Santorini (Greece, undeniably beautiful). Influencer advice aside, and going back to basics, the originals such as Sorrento will, no doubt, become trendy again.
A visit to Pompeii, The Amalfi Coast and Capri are essential if you visit. The literal cost of everything somewhat tarnishes the experience. Parking anywhere is alone 50 euros/day (if you're lucky). Capri is expectably expensive, its Monaco, St Tropez etc. on steroids. With that in mind what a place to visit just to view how the wealthy live. Day trips are available from Sorrento by boat and relatively inexpensive with tours/lunch included.
The main square of Sorrento is pleasant surrounded by bars, cafes and restaurants with a perfect sophisticated night-time ambiance. It feels safe, friendly, a very romantic setting. Beware... everybody here seemed to be extraordinarily attractive, both male and female! At least it did to me and as somebody pushing a 5/10 I felt out of sorts. Even the waiters and taxi drivers were 'model' material. Its a very 'cool' place!
Highly recommend for sightseeing for both singles and couples (though if you're a couple, don't expect to come back with your partner!) Not really a great conventional holiday experience for young children. This is a location I would advise for an extended break. Maybe 2-4 days. Fit in Pompeii, Capri, Positano/Amalfi Coast visits. Then move on, just my thoughts?
Accommodation isn't specified here as I used Air BnB and would recommend likewise due to cost. The hotels are not necessarily a mainstream holiday experience you may be used to (only my opinion). Showing more of a businessman on business day off than tourist by the pool vibe. Search for a good deal during the time you expect to visit. My Air BnB link plus others I feel in a good location listed.
Couples 5/5. Families 3/5. Singles 3/5. Relaxation 3/5. Activities 4/5. Location 4/5. Cost 3/5
Conclusion: Excellent for single travellers as there is so much to see for a short stay, perfect for couples, very romantic not so much for families unless its a travelling holiday. Fantastic sites to see. Not necessarily a stay at the hotel holiday. Its sight-seeing and excursions, medium-expensive to go but relatively inexpensive when you're there, dining out is excellent. Excellent standards and service. Recommended.
Best times to visit May-Sept
Greece, Crete
During my younger years I visited all the Greek islands. None of them ever disappointed. They are all fantastic destinations and hold something for everybody. For this review we will focus on the larger of the Greek islands, Crete. I worked here during my student years and the main resorts of significance being Malia and Agios Nikolaos.
Malia is livelier, its rowdy, it's a party town. Perfect for singles or groups of the younger generation loving clubs, sleeping all day, living for the night-life etc.
Agios is a little more reserved, more cosmopolitan offering similar but a toned down version and in a more picturesque setting. The town is based around a port, lined with bars and restaurants. The clientele in the vicinity will now no doubt be similar to that of Malia but not as wild. If worked/lived in Malia, on hindsight I would prefer Agios Nikolaos.
Both towns are full to the brim with bars and clubs. Malia has a far better beach presence and lots going on during the day if that's your thing. Agios is quieter during the day, especially at port side cafes (but its still a party town!)
Both fantastic locations, not necessarily catering for families/children. Maybe not even couples. Its for groups of singles and a memory maker with an industry heavily centred on nightlife.
Couples 3/5. Families 2/5. Singles 5/5. Relaxation 2/5. Activities 2/5. Location 5/5. Cost 4/5
Conclusion: The place to be for young groups and singles. Not so much families, lots to do if night-life and day-time beach activity is your goal. Minimum relaxing, the relaxation is required when you get back home! Inexpensive to go, cheap when you're there, dining out and drinking. If the chosen resort is not specifically chosen do not expect excellent standards and service. The rooms are intended to sleep in only so quite basic in most. A place you need to go if you're of the correct age. Enjoy!
Best times to visit Apr-Sept
Spain, Benidorm (Air BnB)
This one location where the internet is littered with information, I am trying to offer a slightly unique perspective. Mum and Son holiday...was it suitable?
I've watched hours of Benidorm on YouTube from popular channels such as ByTheCurb and felt this would be great for Mum.
Concluding...it is. Benidorm, despite the 'tacky' association is a wonderful place. We stayed in a Air BnB for obvious reasons (2 rooms for a start). It was central in the Old Town and I will leave all links below.
The location was excellent, central to the traditional Old Town but only 5 minutes walk to Levante Beach, 10-15 minutes for the the 'louder' strip and nightlife. The whole resort, no matter your preference, was safe. The louder parts, frequented by louder clientele still felt safe and Mum loved the variety of entertainment on offer. I would recommend this place to anybody. Its full of characters, very friendly, choose your own evening ambience by location in the area. It just offers everything.
Dining out can be lager and kebabs OR fine wine and tapas. Evening entertainment can be traditional Spanish guitar or exceptional cover acts. Its up to you. Overall its clean, safe, value for money and great fun no matter your preference.
If you do not opt for a traditional holiday resort style accommodation, many places to stay are without the external attribute. I personally, very much insist on a balcony. A link to where we stayed below at a cost of £464 for the week for 2 people. The huge balcony and a pool (which is difficult to find in Benidorm) was a bonus. Location perfect. Check it out and we are not affiliated in anyway.
Vía Emilio Ortuño, 22 6 piso puerta C, Benidorm, Valencian Community 03501, Spain
Couples 5/5. Families 4/5. Singles 5/5. Relaxation 3/5. Activities 3/5. Location 5/5. Cost 5/5
Conclusion: The place to be for young groups and singles. Also for families and couples. It caters for everybody. Lots to do if night-life and day-time bar activity is your goal. The same for travellers wishing to see places of interest and meet people. The same for families, Mum and Dad can meet like minded families, children can mix. Minimum relaxing, the relaxation is required when you get back home! Inexpensive to go, cheap when you're there, dining out, drinking, entertainment and sightseeing. If the chosen resort is not specifically chosen do not expect excellent standards and service. The rooms are intended to sleep in only so quite basic in most. More expensive resorts are available targeting families for the required experience.
Best times to visit Apr-Sept
Antigua, Sandals
I have only stayed at a Sandals resort once and it was here, Antigua. The brand lived up-to all expectations (as the price tag should suggest).
Situated on the north of the island, this is an all-inclusive, couples only resort. The first wow factor at a Sandals resort is just exactly what 'all-inclusive' means. E.g. there is a fridge in reception stocked with Champagne, proper branded names. These are free to take back to your room. The activities are endless, pools many, choice of accommodation is fantastic. We opted for a beach front apartment which was literally a sliding door from the bed to the beach.
Sandals offers a wide range of on-site cuisine options, daily beach/pool activities and evening entertainment.
It does feel slightly subdued for my personal liking and beyond the resort Antigua doesn't offer a great deal more The whole island is only approximately 400 sq.km., so the resort is it really. As my personal experiences of Caribbean Islands is limited I would imagine the same for most. The standards are high, service excellent, locals warm and welcoming.
I would always advise friending a local taxi driver. Take his number, tip well and they will show you all you wish to see safely. Pay for their time and gain a guide, personal protection from being unnecessarily bothered and great company/insight/education to local culture. As always confirm your chosen guide is appropriate, but in some locations you need to employ common sense on who is appropriate.
The resort offers pretty much what it says on the tin. It is at the higher end of All-Inclusive. It is calm, relaxed, luxurious. A perfect holiday for couples seeking a real pampering experience and total relaxation in fantastic surroundings.
The resort is obviously located on a private beach, which is outstanding and offering numerous water-sport activities. Most are included with the holiday package.
Couples 5/5. Families 0/5. Singles 0/5. Relaxation 5/5. Activities 4/5. Location 4/5. Cost 2/5
Conclusion: Not for singles/groups, or families. This is perfect for couples who require higher end all-inclusive. Lots to do if on-site only is acceptable. Relaxing, expensive to go but cheap when you're there, especially as the all-inclusive packages includes a great deal. Premium excellent standards and service. Recommended.
Best times to visit Dec-Apr
Portugal, Albufeira
For some unknown reason I always opted for Spain before Portugal. Still not figured this personal choice. There are many similarities, some closer than others but (i'll get hammered for this) they do feel 'almost' the same.
Albufeira being no exception. The old town centred around a bustling square full of bars, restaurants, evening markets and entertainment. Its a great place to sit and watch from a relaxed table and observe everything going on. Albufeira square in the old town, does however offer a more up-market cosmopolitan feel. Its a pleasant place to spend an evening over and over during a holiday.
There is the obvious 'strip', an essential for many popular holiday destinations that delivers much the same as you would imagine from a locality named 'the strip'.
What separated Portugal for me personally, the surf on the beach is brilliant. Its approximately 30km from Faro Airport (on the most southernly point of Portugal) and subject to the Atlantic waves. Excellent conditions for body-boarding, safe but big enough.
The choice of golfing experiences across the Villamoura courses is superb.
Superbock appeared to be the locally brewed beer of favour and there is no better place to experience others on offer during the event we attended at Paderne Castle. An evening night out highly recommended (if available)
Check out the Calicos Municipal Market. Largo do Mercado 8200, 8200-126 Albufeira. Brilliant for those enjoying the craft/flea market feel with a great offering of local ceramics.
Look for accommodation at the coastal end of the strip.
Hotel Sol E Mar https://www.baratahotels.com/solemar// or
Walking distance central. The vicinity is quite hilly. As such we opted for a moped for the week to get around and visit local markets etc. Well worth doing.
Couples 4/5. Families 4/5. Singles 4/5. Relaxation 3/5. Activities 4/5. Location 3/5. Cost 4/5
Conclusion: Offers something for everybody. Relaxing, but lots to do, inexpensive to go relatively inexpensive there. Dining/drinking out is acceptable. Beach is excellent. Moped hire is a good idea to get around, even if only for daily hire to see a few places. Good standard and service. Recommended.
Best times to visit Apr-Sept
UK travelling holiday
Beyond all of the destinations included in this review. This is where I am able to categorically exercise personal authority. I travelled the UK extensively for 3-4 years during a sales career and visited everywhere on many occasions. I have provided a travel map and agenda for those wishing to visit. It is subjective and I have tried to include places significant, accompanied by areas of outstanding beauty and historical interest.
Assuming for most, the trip would start in London on arrival. Head South, Brighton, follow the coast West and visit the Cornwall peninsular (seeing Devon on your way in and way back out. Head North to The Cotswolds and Straford-Upon-Avon, (visit South Wales if you wish, Cardiff), North-West to Abersoch in North Wales is fantastic, East to Liverpool with amazing heritage, music and football, North to Keswick in the Lake District. By far the most beautiful place to visit. North again to Loch Lomond, and Loch Ness. North again to the NC500, South down to Edinburgh via the east coast Inverness, Aberdeen and then down to Berwick-Upon-Tweed. South staying on the coast to South Shields and Whitby. West over to York and Harrogate before heading back south along the M1 back to London, visiting Cambridge on the way.
Subjective, appreciated. No offence intended to anybody from country parts I omitted. This is based simply on where I would go with time and cost limitations whilst trying to see a great variety of the UK. (and based on living / working extensively everywhere).
The route would look like this...London, Brighton, Cornwall, The Cotswolds (Stratford-Upon-Avon), Abersoch, Liverpool, Keswick, Loch Lomond/Loch Ness, NC500 (clockwise), Edinburgh, Berwick-Upon-Tweed, South-shields, South to Whitby, South West to York, West to Harrogate, South to Cambridge, South to London (with local variations along that route depending on personal preference)
We will follow up with a more detailed look at each location and local places to visit in the surrounding areas in another blog. This is good place to start.
Couples 5/5. Families 4/5. Singles 3/5. Relaxation 2/5. Activities 5/5. Location 3/5. Cost 3/5
Conclusion: Bit subjective this one. Can be for singles, great for couples and families, lots to do and see dependent on where you visit. Its exploring. Relaxing, active medium-expensive as fuel prices are as expensive you will find. Cheap when you're there, but dependent on what you do. Travelling is always down to the individual. Culture changes throughout the country as will local personalities. Just adjust. Recommended.
Best times to visit Apr-Sept (but pick a month...the UK weather is unpredictable!)
For further information on additional locations or advice (including places to stay) contact me. I will always reply and help where I can. Email: info@pollylop.com or visit our travel community www.facebook.com/groups/pollyloptravel
Thailand, Verso (Hua Hin)
If there was ever a destination on a wish list to visit, Thailand was my No.1. With so much to offer across a hugely diverse spectrum it truly is exceptional to see.
Thailand is subjective, totally dependent on what you are seeking. Here, we introduce Hua Hin. A resort on the eastern peninsular, south-west of Bangkok.
Hua Hin has a more calm feel compared to other popular destinations in Thailand and is popular with retiring expats. Whilst maintaining a holiday/tourist resort appeal it is laid back, less offensive in nature and more welcoming to those seeking a calm Thai experience. The locals are extremely welcoming and speak good English.
As with most of Thailand it favours the financial pocket of Westerners that holiday here and more so than the more popular destinations such as Pattaya, Phuket and Koh Samui.
Hua Hin is a coastal resort with stunning beaches, inexpensive dining and fantastic attractions.
Verso is in the south of Hua Hin, minutes from the beach, Monkey Mountain and Golden Buddha temple with amazing bars/cafes cliffside overlooking the sea.
The resort is modern, contemporary, immaculate, spacious and boasts many pools, gym facilities, spa and lounge. Just a short walk from a vibrant Hua-Hin night-life or easy access to tranquil beach front walks.
On-site is an internal oasis separated from the outside and exclusively private. The accommodation, staff and service is exceptional. Perfectly located, excellent accommodation close to, basically, anything and everything you favour. Unbelievably great value for money, excellent for singles and couples (even families but expect to entertain children yourself). Attractions to visit are endless and something for everybody but the sense of spirituality is strong. Amazing place!
Couples 5/5. Families 3/5. Singles 4/5. Relaxation 4/5. Activities 4/5. Location 4/5. Cost 5/5
Conclusion: Thailand has something for everybody. Its safe, extremely inexpensive and offers so much. Hua-Hin is a gem. It caters for singles/travellers, great for couples and families, loads to do and see. The local welcome is unrivalled. Relaxing, relatively inexpensive to go depending on accommodation choice but can be very cheap when you're there. Excellent standards and service. The best hospitality in the world. Recommended.
Best times to visit Nov-Apr