The 'unmissable' holiday destination that’s the ‘new Turkey’ for 2026
A country with bustling coastal resorts and world-famous landmarks has been tipped to replace Turkey in 2026. Egypt has been described as a “destination of choice for travellers" this year with bookings surging in recent years.Turkey has long been a popular destination among UK tourists thanks to its long-standing resorts and reliable weather. Yet many holidaymakers are starting to look for alternatives away from the main tourist crowds.Clare Tobin, CEO at Wild Frontiers, which specialises in small group tours, has named Egypt among the top alternative destinations for the year ahead. She said: “Following a quieter period since 2023, Egypt has made a notable comeback this year and is set to be a destination of choice for travellers in 2026. Wild Frontiers has reported an 60per cent increase in bookings year on year, from 2024 to 2025.“Similar to Turkey, the rich history and culture of Egypt is unmissable, as well as the gorgeous beach resorts and beautiful weather.” The country’s tourist appeal is boosted this year by the fact it's been 50 years since the death of Agatha Christie, whose novel ‘Death on the Nile’ “perfectly captured Egypt’s enigmatic charm, making it the ideal time to retrace her footsteps along the Nile.”Another highlight for 2026 is the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), which only opened its doors late last year. Located two kilometres from the Pyramids in Giza, it showcases the treasures of ancient Egypt and is described as the world’s largest archaeological museum.Wild Frontiers will be exhibiting at Destinations: The Holiday & Travel Show at the Olympia in London from January 29 to February 1. The show is also returning to Manchester Central from January 15 to 18.It’s not just Egypt tipped to be a top holiday destination in 2026. Wild Frontiers has named several other countries which are set to replace popular locations. Kyrgyzstan has been named an alternative for Switzerland and Austria.An “undiscovered gem”, the country is known as the “Switzerland of Central Asia”, with snowcapped mountains is a “great destination for hikers, nature lovers and honeymooners.” For those seeking an alternative for the likes of the Mediterranean or Morocco, Wild Frontiers recommends Iraq in the spring and autumn . It’s described as a destination for “history lovers and those seeking adventure, with its rich heritage, warm hospitality and increasing accessibility.”With “its incredible white beaches and beautiful weather”, Tanzania is described as an alternative for Kenya and South Africa. Wild Frontiers describes it as a “a great new option for beach and sunbathing lovers with incredible safari and access to Mt. Kilimanjaro.”Japan has surged in popularity in recent years, but South Korea is hot on its heels, having welcomed 16.37million foreign visitors in 2024. This marked a 48.8 per cent increase from the previous year.Similar to Japan, South Korea is seasonal and the best time to visit is during spring and autumn, to truly capture the country’s beauty. Cherry blossom season falls between late March and early April, and the changing of the leaves happens from late September to early November.For more of the latest What's On news, click here.
