As a traveler looking for your next vacation, the big question that is typically asked is “Where to next?” Sure, there are the popular spots like Paris and London, but there are more gems out there than you think.
Whether you are looking for a place to adventure and explore or you want to relax by the beach, these top vacation spots will ensure that there is something for every kind of traveler. So, go out there and explore the world with the five vacation hot spots that you can’t miss this year.
Abu Dhabi, UAE
If you are looking for an excellent alternative to popular tourist spots like Dubai, Abu Dhabi is your best bet. While Abu Dhabi has wonderful weather and great beaches, it is also enriched with entertainment at your leisure. Abu Dhabi is the lively capital of the United Arab Emirates, with a great combination of luxury and beauty.
Abu Dhabi is anticipating a surge in tourism for 2026, solidifying its status as a must-visit destination. The city will host major attractions, including the Formula 1 event in December, and the Saadiyat Nights Concert Series, which will showcase international performers like Ricky Martin and Diana Ross. Additionally, art lovers can look forward to a special exhibition at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, featuring the works of the acclaimed Spanish artist, Picasso.
Travel requirements: Travelers must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry to enter the UAE. Many countries, including the United States, EU countries, Australia, Japan, and more, can receive a visa on arrival.
Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries do not require a visa and can enter with their passport or national ID.
Travel insurance requirements: The United Arab Emirates removed the travel insurance requirement in 2022. However, it is still highly recommended to get travel insurance because of the high cost of healthcare and to protect your trip costs.
Arusha, Tanzania
Seeking adventure? With its amazing safaris and the place for hikers to tackle Kilimanjaro, Tanzania is a destination that travelers around the world are looking forward to. Arusha is a bustling city that is enriched with culture and adventure, making it a popular gateway for travelers looking to visit Eastern Africa for the first time.
In 2026, Arusha is the spot for safari travel. Visit Arusha National Park, and you will find a variety of wildlife, including flamingos, giraffes, and buffalo, wandering in the beautiful greenery. Additionally, travelers looking to know more about wildlife through education and interactive exhibits can visit Dr. Jane’s Dream: The Goodall Centre for Hope in the fall, honoring the legacy of the late primatologist Jane Goodall.
Travel requirements: All travelers must have a passport that is valid for 6 months from the date they arrive. Most nationalities require a visa, which can be obtained online through eVisa or on arrival at major entry points. A limited number of countries are visa-exempt for short stays.
You will need a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate only if arriving from or transiting through a country with a yellow fever risk.
Travel insurance requirements: In July 2025, the Tanzanian government started to consider a mandatory travel insurance requirement for all of Tanzania, but it has not yet been implemented. If you are traveling to Zanzibar, it is required that you purchase a travel insurance plan directly from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC).
Zaragoza, Spain
When travelers think of Spain, they most likely think about going to Barcelona or Madrid. Zaragoza, even though it is far less touristy, is a perfect alternative to the popular destinations that we often think about first. The city is known for its Gothic architecture and its connection to the famous artist Francisco Goya, making it a spot for art enthusiasts.
Located in Northern Spain, Zaragoza is the ultimate spot to view the total solar eclipse happening in August 2026. Spain will witness its first total solar eclipse in over a century, making it a rare celestial event. Since Spain is often hot and dry in the summer, it means that there is a higher chance of clear skies to view this spectacular phenomenon.
Travel requirements: A passport or travel document is required and must be valid for up to three months after the expected date of departure. Non-visa-exempt travelers, including individuals from China, Ecuador, Fiji, India, and other countries, are required to get a visa for the Schengen Area. Meanwhile, U.S. citizens and other travelers from visa-exempt countries are allowed to visit the Schengen Area for less than 90 days without a visa.
Travel insurance requirements: If you are from a visa-exempt country staying in the Schengen Area for more than 90 days, or you are from a country that requires a visa while in Europe, you are required to have a travel insurance policy. When applying for a visa, your coverage must include the following:
- A minimum of €30,000 in medical coverage
- Coverage for emergency medical treatment and hospital stays
- Coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains
- The policy must be valid in all Schengen Area countries for the duration of your stay
Montego Bay, Jamaica
Duty-free shopping, beautiful beaches, and authentic jerk dishes make Montego Bay one of the most sought-after destinations out there. It’s also a bustling port of call for many cruises. While Jamaica was struck by a Category 5 hurricane in late October 2025, the area has rapidly improved and rebuilt the area, and more than two-thirds of the island is already open and inviting visitors with open arms.
In late 2026, the Royalton CHIC Jamaica Paradise Cove, an all-inclusive and adults-only resort, is expected to open by the shores of Runaway Bay. You can expect luxury entertainment and dining, making it a destination to remember.
Travel requirements: Foreign travelers to Jamaica must present a valid and approved travel document, like a passport, as evidence of their identity and nationality. U.S. citizens do not require a visa to enter the country for stays of less than 90 days.
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required only if you are arriving from or transiting through a country with a yellow fever risk.
Many countries require a visa for Jamaica, but how do I know if I need one? The Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency website offers a comprehensive list of the visa requirements for each country.
Travel insurance requirements: There are no travel insurance requirements for Jamaica, but it is highly recommended.
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galápagos Islands are where you want to be if you want to experience wildlife up close. Whether you want to have fun with the sea lions or want to hang out with giant tortoises, the Galápagos will have you see wildlife that you have never seen before. Nature and animal lovers combined can find themselves enjoying the beautiful scenery while admiring the most amazing marine wildlife.
2026 cruise sales are at an all-time high. Since the Galápagos can be enjoyed at any time of the year, why not hop on a luxury cruise to the Galápagos Islands this year? Many new cruise ships are debuting in 2026, so that you can travel in style while exploring the most biodiverse place on the planet.
Travel requirements: To travel to Ecuador, you must have a valid passport for 6 months beyond your arrival date and need a blank passport page for entry/exit stamps. Most citizens from North America and Europe do not require a tourist visa for stays that are less than 90 days.
Travel insurance requirements: Travel medical insurance is a legal requirement to visit the Galápagos Islands. Even though Ecuador has discontinued its travel medical insurance requirement for visits to the mainland, the Ecuadorian government still requires all travelers to the Galápagos Islands to have travel medical insurance.
Where Can I Find the Best Travel Insurance?
Whether you plan on taking a vacation later this summer or decide to put off your getaway a little longer, these five amazing destinations will be waiting for you.
While you plan your trip, make sure to also pack the best travel insurance to protect your deserved vacation. VisitorsCoverage’s comparison tools allow you to compare travel insurance plans, ensuring you make a more informed decision when it comes to securing the best travel insurance. Not sure where to start? Our Customer Success Team is always there to help you get the right insurance for your next trip.
Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Insurance for International Travel
Is purchasing travel insurance for international travel worth it?
Yes. Travel insurance for international travel can be absolutely worth it. Oftentimes, an international trip can be a large investment for many travelers, so it is worth it to get a travel insurance plan that protects your trip expenses. Additionally, your domestic health insurance may not cover you abroad, causing you to pay out-of-pocket in case of a medical emergency. With a travel insurance plan, you can protect both your trip investment as well as yourself in case of any medical emergency abroad.
How much does travel insurance for international travel cost?
Travel insurance for an international trip can cost about 4-10% of your total prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses. The price of your travel insurance can vary based on factors like your trip cost, length, age, destination, and any optional add-ons. While it is an additional cost to your travel budget, travel insurance can genuinely help you from major losses if your plans change suddenly.
What is not covered by international trip insurance?
Travel insurance for international travel and what isn’t covered can vary by plan, so it’s important to read your policy details carefully. That said, most travel insurance plans do not cover:
- Routine medical checkups
- Pre-existing conditions (unless covered under a pre-existing conditions waiver)
- Injuries from high-risk activities not listed in the policy
- Traveling against medical advice
- Losses due to intoxication or drug use
- Canceling your trip for a reason not listed as a covered event
Cancelling your trip for a reason that is not listed on your insurance policy can include a change of mind or fear of traveling. However, securing Cancel For Any Reason coverage can help you out in this case, protecting up to 50% to 75% of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses. Keep in mind that CFAR is a limited benefit that typically needs to be purchased within 14-21 days after the initial trip deposit date.
How long before a trip should I purchase a travel insurance plan for an international trip?
Ideally, you should secure your travel insurance plan for an international trip as soon as you book your trip. Many useful benefits, such as coverage for pre-existing conditions or the option to add Cancel For Any Reason insurance, are available, but typically require that you buy your travel insurance within 14-21 days of making your initial trip deposit.
Are extreme sports or adventure travel automatically included under international trip insurance?
Many insurance policies offer an adventure sports add-on to your travel insurance policy, making sure you are extra covered for medical situations related to your trip. If you are looking to participate in a high-risk activity during your trip, such as surfing or mountain climbing, make sure you are looking for a policy that includes adventure sports coverage for your exact activity.
Can travel insurance for international travel include cruises?
Yes, travel insurance for international travel can include any kind of travel, regardless of whether you are traveling by air or at sea. Travel insurance is designed to cover you wherever you go, and your travel insurance plan can apply whether you are cruising, flying internationally, or traveling within your own country.
Is the loss of prepaid tours or non-refundable expenses covered under travel insurance for international travel?
Yes. If you need to cancel or interrupt your trip, or if you experience a delay, travel insurance for your international trip can cover your prepaid, nonrefundable expenses. This can include flights, hotel accommodations, prepaid tours and excursions, and any other travel expense that you already paid for and can’t get a refund for.
