Top 5 “Off the Beaten Path” Travel Destinations for 2026

Travel in 2026 is shaping up to be less about ticking off landmarks and more about discovering places that feel fresh, surprising, and a little under the radar. According to travel expert – and BC Children’s Hospital Choices Lottery partner – Claire Newell of Travel Best Bets, travelers are looking for destinations that offer strong value, fewer crowds, and memorable experiences — without sacrificing comfort or culture.

It’s also the perfect time to start dreaming of your next vacation! The BC Children’s Hospital Choices Lottery offers multiple travel prizes in its early prize draws, meaning buying early tickets could help turn these picks into a real itinerary.

With that in mind, here are Claire’s top five travel destination picks for you in 2026:

1. Azores, Portugal

Remote, lush, and dramatic, the Azores are often described as Europe’s most beautiful hidden gem. Volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, hot springs, make this Atlantic archipelago ideal for travelers craving nature and adventure without crowds.

**Azores, Portugal:** A peaceful lookout over a volcanic crater, highlighting the islands’ incredible nature, scenic hikes, and dramatic volcanic landscapes.

2. Scandinavia

“Scandinavia is seeing a surge in interest, particularly for travellers looking to escape the extreme summer heat of Southern Europe,” says Claire. Improved airline connectivity has opened the door to standout experiences such as Norway’s Lofoten Islands, Stockholm’s historic Gamla Stan, Swedish Lapland, and Finland’s Oulu — named a 2026 European Capital of Culture.

**Oulu, Finland:** With its charming preserved wooden houses and peaceful coastal setting, this 2026 European Capital of Culture offers a mix of unique events, art and adventure.

3. Brazil

Brazil offers an incredible mix of energy and scenery. Rio de Janeiro and Iguazu Falls remain iconic, while São Paulo is becoming more accessible thanks to a new nonstop flight from Calgary with WestJet starting in November 2026. As South America’s cultural and culinary capital, São Paulo offers vibrant neighbourhoods, world-class dining, and an incredible arts scene.

**Batman’s Alley, Pinheiros District, São Paulo, Brazil:** One of São Paulo’s most iconic urban attractions, this renowned open‑air gallery is filled with colourful, ever‑changing street art, vibrant murals, small galleries, and nearby cafés.

4. Albania

Albania is rapidly rising as one of the Mediterranean’s best‑value destinations — and one of 2026’s “it” spots. With crystal‑clear waters, hidden caves and coastal towns, it offers a premium Mediterranean experience without the premium price tag. As Claire puts it, “Think of it as Italy’s quieter, more affordable cousin,” offering rugged coastal beauty, authentic charm and far fewer crowds — at a fraction of the cost.

**Borsh Beach, Vlorë, Albania:** A peaceful 7‑km stretch of white‑pebbled, turquoise‑water beach, surrounded by olive groves and mountains in the Albanian Riviera, offering a relaxed escape with nearby beach bars, restaurants, and small hotels.

5. Thailand

Thailand is experiencing a major resurgence, fueled by the pop‑culture spotlight from The White Lotus and the added convenience of a non‑stop flight to Bangkok, Thailand with Air Canada. While the country’s iconic beaches still steal the show, more travellers are discovering a slower side of Thailand beyond the usual hotspots.

**Rawai Beach, Phuket, Thailand:** A historic fishing village known for its authentic local vibe and stunning island views, serving as a prime departure point for island-hopping boat trips.

Ready to Win Your Next Vacation?

If these destinations have you dreaming of your next getaway, now’s the perfect time to get your BC Children’s Hospital Choices Lottery tickets. Early buyers can win thousands of dollars in travel prizes from $10,000 up to $250,000 in the Early Bird, which can turn inspiration into real plans — all while supporting world‑class care and research for children across B.C.