2026 is the year of creating memories — and data suggests that experiential gifting is no longer just a trend; it’s a cultural shift shaping travel for the good. Spending on experiences is projected to rise 16% year over year. The global wellness tourism market reached $995 billion in 2024 (Global Wellness Institute) and is forecasted to grow at 13.2% annually through 2034 (Global Market Insights, 2025). As a passionate traveler, I can totally get behind this trend. I love the concept of living in an era where gift givers and recipients value making memories and taking place in experiences rooted in culture.
As travelers prioritize sustainability and personalization, the demand for destinations that offer cultural depth, regenerative practices, and transformative experiences continues to rise. If you’re looking for the ultimate experiential gift to give in 2026, these properties give the gift for culture, renewal, and discovery.
The Dylan Amsterdam
A visit to The Dylan Amsterdam is the perfect gift for travelers seeking both sophistication and sustainability. With elegant room features like bespoke oak cabinetry and Vallone bathtubs, a stay here embodies how luxury evolves to meet modern values. Coming soon in spring 2026, this luxury hotel will debut a Technogym-equipped fitness center to enhance wellness amenities.
Additionally, foodies can savor Michelin-starred dining at Restaurant Vinkeles and try a signature High Wine experience pairing five vintages with seasonal bites. A stay here is more than just a visit to Amsterdam, it’s a spot where travelers can indulge in curated culinary experiences, wellness amenities, and more — all of which prioritize sustainability.
Imperial Hotel, Kyoto
Opening March 5, 2026, the new Imperial Hotel, Kyoto is a cultural landmark reborn. The hotel, which occupies the Yasaka Kaikan, a 90-year-old Tangible Cultural Property in Kyoto’s historic Gion district, blends traditional craftsmanship with modern design with stand-out elements like tatami flooring, cedar, and Japanese stone. This historic spot allows travelers to enjoy curated activities, local culinary experiences, and wellness offerings that go beyond the ordinary, including immersive cultural programs that immerse travelers in the destination.
Ananda in the Himalayas
This year, Ananda in the Himalayas celebrates a 25-year legacy, attracting travelers who want to immerse themselves in a true wellness-focused destination. Award-winning programs here integrate Ayurveda, yoga, and emotional healing with evidence-based diagnostics, offering 14- to 21-night stays focused on stress relief, detox, rejuvenation, and immunity. Signature experiences include sunrise yoga overlooking the Ganges, Himalayan sound therapy, and guided meditation in nature. For the wellness-focused person in your life, a 2026 gift to this retreat offers a unique personalized wellness retreat that transforms a stay into an ongoing journey.
Hotel Belmar, Monteverde
Travelers who love nature are headed to Hotel Belmar in 2026, a leader in regenerative tourism. This property blends sustainability with style from its perch in Costa Rica’s cloud forest, with renovations featuring organic fabrics, reclaimed wood, and private balconies overlooking lush landscapes. From farm-to-table dining to craft beer brewing, there’s something for everyone here to immerse themselves in local culture and enjoy a mindful, regenerative retreat. This year also marks the 40th anniversary for the hotel, making it a perfect choice for travelers seeking journeys that give back to their planet.
Bettoja Hotels, Rome
2026 is a big year for Bettoja Hotels which is showcasing renovation across its three historic properties: Hotel Mediterraneo, Massimo d’Azeglio, and Atlantico. Founded in 1875 and still family-owned through five generations, Bettoja remains a landmark in Rome’s hospitality scene, offering 500 rooms, ten meeting spaces, and a panoramic rooftop bar. Modern travelers seeking a celebration of heritage can explore the new properties this year, with access to iconic landmarks and curated experiences like private dining in historic salons or rooftop aperitivo overlooking the Eternal City.
