Travel in 2026: New Year, New Adventures. Why Group Travel Might Be Your Perfect First Step
- Ericka Hamilton
- Dec 9
- 4 min read
As the year winds down, many of us start thinking about what we want more of in the year ahead—more calm, more clarity, more connection, and meaningful experiences to look forward to. For so many people, that includes travel.
But if you've ever found yourself ready to go while your friends can't take time off… or your partner prefers to stay home… or the thought of traveling completely solo feels equal parts exciting and overwhelming—you're not alone. I've been there too.
And here's the truth no one told me at the time: You can travel solo, without ever feeling alone.
For me, that realization happened on a 12-day escorted tour through Spain. I'll be honest—I was skeptical, especially about the "coach bus" part. But once the trip began, something shifted. I could actually exhale. Someone else was handling the logistics, and I could be fully present. I wandered a morning market alone, then shared dinner with new friends that same evening. It was the best of both worlds.
Escorted tours are that comfortable middle ground so many new (or hesitant) travelers are looking for: the freedom of solo travel, wrapped in the safety and support of a group.
What to Expect on an Escorted Tour
If you've never joined one before, here's the part no one tells you: The structure gives you more freedom, not less.
Here's how a typical tour works:
A dedicated tour director travels with you the entire time
You spend 2–3 days in each destination before moving on
Travel between locations is by comfortable coach or scenic train
Most days include a mix of guided tours and free time
Breakfast is usually included, along with a few dinners
You choose how social—or independent—you want to be
One of my favorite surprises on my Spain trip? The rest stops I thought would feel like interruptions actually became small windows into local culture—regional snacks, new conversations, and tiny, unexpected moments that made the trip feel richer.
Where Could 2026 Take You?
If you're thinking about dipping your toes into group travel next year, here are two thoughtfully curated tours I often recommend for first-timers who want comfort, culture, and a beautiful pace.
Scotland: Unpack Once, Explore Everything
CIE Tours' Scottish Daytripper | 6 Days
If the idea of constant packing and unpacking makes you nervous, this itinerary is ideal. You'll stay at a 4-star hotel in Glasgow's vibrant West End for all five nights—your cozy home base for the week—while taking day trips to Scotland's highlights.
Trip highlights:
Ferry to the Isle of Arran + Brodick Castle
Full day in Edinburgh, including Edinburgh Castle
Whisky tasting at the Johnnie Walker Experience
Loch Lomond cruise into the Highlands
Stirling Castle
Sir Walter Scott's Abbotsford House
Why it's perfect for new or anxious travelers: Small groups (10–25 guests), one central hotel stay, thoughtful pacing, and just the right mix of guided experiences and personal exploration.
Switzerland: Scenic Trains Through the Alps
Globus' Swiss Splendors by Train | 8 Days
If you dream of gliding through the Alps with mountain views outside your window, this tour is pure magic. No bus fatigue—just iconic train journeys connecting Switzerland's most breathtaking landscapes.
Trip highlights:
Gornergrat Railway with Matterhorn views
Eiger Express Cable Car up the Jungfrau massif
Scenic Loetschberg train to Interlaken
Peaceful lake cruises framed by mountains
Olympic Museum in Lausanne
Why travelers love it: Ultra-small groups (maximum 18 guests), first-class train travel, and spectacular views every single day.
Both tours include first-class hotels, transportation, entrance fees, expert guides, and many meals—so you can simply show up and enjoy.
Is Group Travel Right for You in 2026?
Group travel might be a wonderful fit if:
You want to travel, but don't have a travel companion
Navigating a new country alone feels intimidating
You enjoy meeting new people, but value independence
You want cultural depth without the planning stress
You're ready to say "yes" to a meaningful adventure
If you've ever said, "I want to go… I just don't want to go alone," an escorted tour in 2026 can be a beautiful and comfortable first step.
Ready to Turn Your 2026 Travel Dreams Into Reality?
If the idea of group travel is starting to feel possible—or even exciting—I'm here to help you take the next step at a pace that feels right for you.
Whenever you're ready, consider booking a free 30-minute consultation: Let's talk about your travel goals for 2026. I'll walk you through how escorted tours work and help you narrow in on the right fit—no pressure, no rush.
Whether you're imagining Scotland's storied castles or Switzerland's snow-covered peaks, I'll help you find the right itinerary and take care of all the planning details.
You get to focus on getting excited. I'll handle the rest.
P.S. As I wrap up another year of helping travelers explore the world—many for the very first time—I'm deeply grateful. Whether you traveled with me this year, followed along through my blog, or are quietly dreaming about your next adventure, thank you for being here.
Here's to the trips that shaped us in 2025… and the new stories waiting for us in 2026.
If you have questions or hesitations about group travel, I'd love to hear them. Every concern is one I've either heard before—or felt myself—and I'm always happy to offer honest guidance.
About the Author: Ericka Hamilton, Travel Advisor & Educator
Ericka Hamilton is the owner of Unveiled Explorations & Travel, where she helps cruisers, solo travelers, and groups plan meaningful, effortless travel. With a background in education and mental health, she brings a calm, clear, and supportive approach to trip planning—specializing in cruises, escorted tours, and intentional travel for people who want structure without overwhelm.
Learn more at unveiledexplorationstravel.com.
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