The cultural heavyweights worth building an itinerary around as culture and creativity come together in powerful new ways

Community and creativity are reshaping daily life in this edit of storied destinations, set to define the travel conversation for 2026. Each offers more than surface appeal – through architectural ambition, grassroots cultural energy, or a renewed sense of purpose – and rewards visitors willing to look a little deeper.

Where to travel in 2026

Hiroshima, Japan

Eighty years on, Hiroshima is no longer defined by a single moment in time, but by what emerged from it: a city rebuilt through architecture. From the ruins of wartime devastation came a bold modernist vision, shaped by figures such as Kenzo Tange and Togo Murano, later extended by contemporary masters including Tadao Ando, Shigeru Ban and Jun Aoki, among others. That legacy feels newly energised today. The launch of the three-yearly Hiroshima Architecture Exhibition this year positions the city as a centre for architectural discourse, uniting Pritzker Prize winners, experimental practices and emerging voices. When the festival is not on, highlights remain plentiful: from Shigeru Ban’s Simose Art Garden Villa to Kisho Kurokawa’s restored Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art. Beyond the city, the wider prefecture unfolds as a constellation of design destinations in its own right.

Hong Kong

Few skylines are as instantly recognisable as Hong Kong’s, but to understand the city is to look beyond its serrated outline of glass towers and jade-green peaks. Long defined as a global financial hub and gateway between East and West, Hong Kong today reveals itself as something more layered: a place where heritage, nature and creativity reshape its identity. Icons such as I.M. Pei’s Bank of China Tower and Norman Foster’s HSBC Building anchor the skyline, while adaptive-reuse projects signal a shift in mindset. Tai Kwun, PMQ and The Mills transform former police quarters and factories into cultural engines. Beyond Central, districts such as Sham Shui Po pulse with everyday life and creative reinvention, where design studios, tofu shops and neon-lit markets coexist. Add to this more than 40 per cent protected green space, and Hong Kong emerges as a city of rare duality – resilient, evolving and deeply alive.

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Along the cobbled streets of San Miguel de Allende, colour seeps from every corner. Painted façades, marigold-framed doorways and sunlit courtyards set the rhythm of daily life, anchored by the city’s distinctive pink parish church rising above the rooftops. Long admired for its historic character, the highland town today is experiencing a renewed creative energy, drawing designers, artists and makers in search of light, pace and a deeper connection to craft. Once a magnet for 20th-century painters, writers and intellectuals, San Miguel is again evolving. Studios, galleries and small design-led businesses sit alongside long-established workshops specialising in textiles, ceramics and copper, encouraging close collaboration and a slower, more considered way of working.

Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Set midway between Europe and China, Tashkent rises from the Central Asian steppe as one of the Silk Road’s most layered cities. Shaped by Arab, Persian, Mongol and Russian rule, it became the capital of an independent Uzbekistan in 1991 after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Few places reveal history so vividly. Ancient Islamic quarters sit beside Imperial Russian boulevards, Stalinist monuments and the boldly imaginative Soviet modernism of the 1960s and 70s. While parts of that legacy are being reshaped by new marble-clad developments, many landmarks endure: the Hotel Uzbekistan, the sculptural Chorsu Bazaar and a metro system whose chandeliers and marble halls feel closer to a palace than public transport. Emerging from decades of isolation, Tashkent remains refreshingly untouched by mass tourism, with leafy parks, open-air markets and a café culture that feels unhurried and genuine. It is a city rediscovering itself.

Tbilisi, Georgia

The Georgian capital is defined by a fiercely independent cultural spirit forged over millennia and sharpened by adversity. While the country’s political climate is fraught, its creative life remains defiantly alive. Artists, designers, musicians and chefs continue to build, make and gather, sustaining a city where culture functions as both refuge and resistance. Today, Georgian wine, food and hospitality are legendary. New spaces reflect this momentum, including the recently opened Telegraph Hotel, which has quickly become a social anchor for the city’s creative community. From neighbourhood hotels, restaurants and nightclubs that double as communal living rooms, to studios where fashion, art and craft evolve hand-in-hand with tradition, Tbilisi is a city that has learned how to endure.

As one of the superpowers, with a currency that has long been the world’s benchmark, the United States (US) is often considered a city with a relatively expensive lifestyle. However, behind all that, Uncle Sam’s country also has many pocket-friendly tourist destinations and offers impressive natural beauty and outdoor activities.

No need to empty your wallet, US News in “Best Cheap Tourist Destinations in the US in 2025″ shares a series of recommendations for cheap tourist destinations in the US that are pocket-friendly. What are they? Keep scrolling to see the full list.

Recommendations for Cheap Tourist Destinations in the United States

1. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Traveling to the US doesn’t have to be a waste of money because you can visit Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. This place offers various exciting activities, from hiking, mountain climbing, to kayaking. For visitors who want to find out about the history of this national park, the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center is ready to welcome you.

2. Moab, Utah

Moab is a paradise for adventurers. Located between two famous national parks—Arches and Canyonlands, Moab invites budget travelers to hike, bike, or cruise the Colorado River. When night falls, pitch your tent to admire the Moab night sky free from light pollution.

3. Gulf Shores, Alabama

For those looking for a beach vacation in the US but not too expensive, you can take a trip to the Gulf Shores area in Alabama. This place offers beautiful panoramas of white sand and blue ocean. For a more stunning view, ride the Ferris wheel at The Wharf and witness the face of Gulf Shores bathed in the sunset.

4. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Who doesn’t know the Grand Canyon? This valley of steep cliffs can be found in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona. In addition to admiring the great canyon, tourists can also visit the shops and historic buildings in Grand Canyon Village.

5. Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach in Oregon adds to the list of cheap tourist destinations in the US. Located on the northwest coast of Portland, Oregon, Cannon Beach is famous for its iconic Haystack rocks. Wildlife enthusiasts can also encounter a number of rare bird species, such as tufted parrots and magpie robins.
In addition, this coastal area is also an ideal destination to meet gray whales. Specifically, winter or spring is the right time to see around 18,000 gray whales migrating.

6. Sequoia National Park, California

Many people come to Sequoia National Park, California, to admire the lush giant trees that have lived for thousands of years. Hiking and mountain climbing are some of the outdoor activity options in the place, but you also need to know that this national park area is home to wildlife such as bears, mountain lions, and bobcats.

7. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park is the next recommendation for a cheap tourist destination in the US. Located in Montana, this national park is a favorite destination for hikers, especially at Logan Pass. Other activities that are no less interesting are swimming, walking along the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, or spending time in a picnic area after a tiring hike.

8. Olympic National Park, Washington

Nature lovers will definitely love Olympic National Park in Washington because this national park offers a diverse landscape that includes mountains, beaches, and rainforests. Escape the city life for a moment and be one with nature by fishing, hiking, or meeting various wildlife, such as black bears, bald eagles, and elk, here.

9. Bar Harbor, Maine

As the gateway to Acadia National Park, one of the most beloved national parks in the northeastern US, Bar Harbor offers an affordable vacation experience, especially during the off-peak season, namely during the summer. Here, travelers can take a leisurely stroll along the Shore Path or have a picnic on the shores of Agamont Park.

10. Finger Lakes, New York

The Finger Lakes allow you to do many exciting activities. Like fishing? Get ready all your equipment and go fishing at Lake Sakneateles. Hiking enthusiasts can explore Watkins Glen State Park and its 19 waterfalls.

In addition, tourists can also learn more about the life of Harriet Tubman, an important figure who was a spy during the American Civil War, at the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park.

Five Flower Lake, also called Wuhua Lake, is located in Jiuzhaigou Valley, China. It is famous for its crystal-clear water that naturally shows many colours like blue, green, turquoise, and yellow, making it a stunning natural wonder.

Some places in the world are famous for their amazing natural beauty, attracting travelers from everywhere. Certain lakes stand out because of their unique colors, clear water, and peaceful surroundings. These lakes look magical, almost like a painting, and change their appearance with sunlight and seasons. People visit them to enjoy nature, take pictures, and experience a calm and relaxing environment that feels truly special and unforgettable.

Which Lake is known as the Five Flower Lake?

Five Flower Lake, also called Wuhua Lake, is a beautiful and colourful lake in Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park, Sichuan, China. It is famous for its crystal-clear water that shows many colours like blue, green, turquoise, yellow, and light brown at the same time. These colours are created naturally by minerals, algae, sunlight, and fallen tree trunks under the water. The lake is a protected natural wonder and a popular tourist attraction.

Why is it called Five Flower Lake?

The lake is called Five Flower Lake because its water appears in many colours at once. You can see shades of blue, green, turquoise, yellow, and light brown in the lake. These colours happen naturally due to minerals, sunlight, algae, and fallen tree trunks underwater. The combination of these elements creates a spectacular, multi-coloured effect, like a painting made by nature.

Location of Five Flower Lake

Five Flower Lake is located in Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park, which is in Sichuan Province, China. This park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its beautiful landscapes, including lakes, waterfalls, forests, and snow-capped mountains. The area is protected to preserve its natural beauty, and it is one of the most famous tourist destinations in China.

Why does Five Flower Lake Have Different Colours?

The unique colours of the lake come from several natural factors:

• Mineral deposits: Minerals in the water reflect sunlight in different ways, creating various shades.
• Algae: Tiny water plants contribute to the greenish and yellowish tones.
• Calcium carbonate: This natural chemical affects the water’s clarity and colours.
• Submerged tree trunks: Fallen trees at the bottom of the lake also change the way light reflects.
• Clear water: The water is extremely clean, allowing sunlight to reach the lake bed and show multiple colours at once.

Clear Water and Lake Features

The water in Five Flower Lake is so clear that visitors can see the lake bed, mineral layers, and tree trunks from the surface. This gives the lake a glass-like appearance, making it look magical. You can also notice the details at different depths, which adds to its beauty and uniqueness.

Changing Colours with Seasons

The colours of Five Flower Lake are not always the same. They change depending on:

• Sunlight: Different times of the day produce different shades.
• Weather: Clouds, rain, or sunshine affect how the colours appear.
• Seasons: Snow in winter or flowers in spring can change the lake’s appearance.

Surrounding vegetation: Trees and plants around the lake reflect in the water, adding more shades.

Tourism and Environmental Protection

Five Flower Lake is a major tourist attraction, but it is strictly protected to preserve its fragile ecosystem.

• Swimming, fishing, or touching the water is not allowed.
• Walking on designated paths is encouraged to avoid damaging the surroundings.
• Visitors are educated about the importance of keeping the lake clean.

Interesting Fact About Five Flower Lake

One fascinating fact about the lake is that it naturally displays multiple colours at the same time, something very rare in nature. Its combination of colours, crystal-clear water, and natural surroundings makes it one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.

Getting a vacation requires a significant amount of money. It is not surprising that travelers are looking for affordable holidays. A travel expert shares tips for planning a budget-friendly vacation, especially when traveling to Europe.

According to Amy Doherty, owner of Travel by Luxe, there are opportunities to find affordable vacations amidst the competition in the tourism industry. “There are still brilliant deals out there, but you have to approach planning with a bit more strategy than you did five or ten years ago,” she said, as quoted from Express UK.

After finding the best discounts or determining the right time to travel, you can save money without sacrificing quality. Here are some tips from Amy Doherty that are often used when traveling to Europe.

1. Book hotels via mobile

One of Amy’s main tips is to always book hotels on a mobile device, rather than a laptop. Hotels often offer exclusive discounts to mobile users because apps usually have a better conversion rate.

“If you check the same hotel on your phone versus your desktop, the mobile price is frequently lower. Websites like Booking.com or Hotels.com are particularly good for these deals,” she said.

2. Set price alerts

The most effective trick for getting cheap airline tickets is setting price alerts from the beginning so you’re notified when prices drop. Travelers can use platforms like Skyscanner and Google Flights to set price alerts. When the price drops, they will be notified and can book before it rises again. Travelers who monitor prices for several weeks usually pay much less than those who book impulsively.

3. Choose destinations where your money is more valuable

According to Amy, the cost-of-living crisis affects how people choose vacations. If the destination choices are more flexible, look for destinations with really low daily costs. Travelers can also use comparison tools like Numbeo to compare restaurant, transportation, and accommodation costs before deciding on a destination.

4. Use installment options

When attractive offers appear but it’s not yet payday, installment services can help. Amy explained that platforms like Booking.com and Expedia now offer such features. “It means you don’t lose out on a brilliant price just because the timing isn’t ideal,” she said.

5. Avoid booking last minute

It’s no longer the era of last-minute bookings. According to Amy, UK operators like Jet2holidays or TUI, the most stable low fares usually appear two to six months before departure. If you book too close to the departure date, you might only be scrambling for remaining rooms, and the prices rarely drop.

She suggested that March is one of the best months for smoother and calmer travel, while September and October often offer lower fares and quieter destinations. As for flights, choose Sundays to get lower prices.

6. Travel around Europe by train

Traveling by train in Europe can be much cheaper than flying, especially if booked early. Amy said that the European train network offers early discounts that are rarely matched by airlines.

7. Stay flexible with dates

If you need to change your departure or return dates, try not to exceed one day. This is because the fares can change drastically. “Airlines charge more on peak days, so playing around with your schedule is one of the easiest ways to save,” she said.

8. Getting more legroom

If you want extra comfort without paying for a seat, choose the right side near the bulkhead, or the back often has more space. Most airlines will seat families together for free if they check in early and do not choose seats. Conversely, if they check in late or when the flight is very full, they will sit separately.

9. The hotel is more cost-effective than Airbnb

Amy referred to a recent Which? A study found that in most major destinations, hotels are much cheaper than Airbnb for a single room. She said hotel prices are clearer, with daily cleaning, and often include breakfast, so the value is greater. To save even more, she suggested booking hotels on Thursdays.