As 2025 draws to a close, the December issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK) reveals its pick of the most exciting destinations for the year ahead. From sumptuous rail journeys through Uzbekistan to eye-opening cultural projects in Hull, the Best of the World list for 2026 brings together 25 meaningful reasons to travel next year, all handpicked by National Geographic’s global community of explorers, photographers and editors. 

This year’s list leaves no stone unturned, spotlighting everything from seminal US road trips to destinations emerging from disaster. Readers will also find an array of experiences chosen for the positive impact they’ve made on local communities and ecosystems. Whether it’s learning wilderness survival skills in the Cree Nation of Mistassini or helping with conservation projects in Fiji, the 2026 list is packed with inspiration for travellers looking to make their next trip count.  

Readers will also find a winter sports guide included with the December issue. Perfect for anyone planning on hitting the slopes this season, it includes 26 inspirational ideas for winter adventures, from the best rail-accessible reports in Europe to heli-skiing in Albania’s Accursed Mountains. 

Don’t miss 

• Nepal: A new homestay network is putting money into the pockets of rural women 
• Hokkaido: Japan’s northernmost island hums with the songs and stories of the Ainu people 
• Hungary: In the region of Tokaj, winemaking traditions have survived centuries of tumult 
• Puerto Rico: From the mountains to the coast, the Caribbean island is awash with treasures 

To read a sample of the December issue, click here.  
To subscribe to the National Geographic Traveller (UK) newsletter, click here.  

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Notes    
National Geographic Traveller (UK) is published under licence by APL Media Limited, from National Geographic Partners LLC in Washington, DC. The travel and lifestyle magazine launched in December 2010 and is packed full of you-are-there photography, authentic travel experiences and inspiring narratives. nationalgeographic.com/travel     

For more information about National Geographic, visit nationalgeographic.com, find us on the National Geographic app or visit us at Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest and TikTok.  

About APL Media 
APL Media is a multi-award-winning content marketing agency and publisher, producing high-quality print, digital, and live media across the travel and lifestyle sectors. Since 1997, it has published National Geographic Traveller (UK) under licence from National Geographic Partners LLC, supported by brand extensions including guides, events, and digital platforms. The portfolio also features Living360, a digital lifestyle brand covering wellness, travel, food, sustainability, and culture, distributed via national media and its own platform. APL Media delivers custom content, branded campaigns, editorial consultancy, and leading events such as the Travel Media Awards and Step Up. Its trade titles include Postcards and the ASTA Worldwide Destination Guide, with content also produced for national newspapers. 
aplmedia.co.uk