Unpacked by Afar tackles one tricky topic in travel each week. Whether you want to hack your points and miles, figure out where to travel next, or need advice on an ethical dilemma, we're your expert travel guides. Because the travel world is complicated. We're here to help you unpack it.
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Unpacked by Afar tackles one tricky topic in travel each week. Whether you want to hack your points and miles, figure out where to travel next, or need advice on an ethical dilemma, we're your expert travel guides. Because the travel world is complicated. We're here to help you unpack it.
Where to Go in 2026: The Most Underrated Destinations for the Year Ahead
Unpacked by Afar
1 minute
6 days ago
Where to Go in 2026: The Most Underrated Destinations for the Year Ahead
In 2026, it's time to travel differently. This year's Where to Go list from Afar isn't about the usual suspects—it's about lessening the burden on over-touristed destinations while discovering places that are equally extraordinary.
Today, we released our list of 24 emerging regions and overlooked locales that deliver all the magic with none of the crowds. From Bucharest's Belle Époque architecture and lively bar scene to Sado Island's pristine beaches and relaxing onsens, these destinations prove you don't have to sacrifice incredible experiences to travel more responsibly.
And on December 5—and over the next two months—we'll explore 15 of these places here on Unpacked, through conversations with the writers who discovered them firsthand.
Resources
Where to Go in 2026: Places That Are on the Rise and Off the Beaten Path
Find inspiration, or start planning your next trip, on afar.com
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Unpacked by Afar
Unpacked by Afar tackles one tricky topic in travel each week. Whether you want to hack your points and miles, figure out where to travel next, or need advice on an ethical dilemma, we're your expert travel guides. Because the travel world is complicated. We're here to help you unpack it.
