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If you’re beginning to think about travel in 2026, now is the ideal time to start planning. Many of the most popular destinations and cruise itineraries sell out far earlier than travelers expect — often a year or more in advance. Wave Season (January through March) is known for strong pricing and promotions, but the real advantage of booking early is availability. From river cruises and Italy hotels to Alaska balcony cabins and cherry blossom season in Japan, early planning ensures better choices and fewer compromises.  Below are five types of trips you should be booking now if 2026 travel is on your radar.

By Brilliant Journeys – Travel well, Travel Brilliantly. If you’ve been dreaming about a river cruise but aren’t sure where to begin, you’re in good company. River cruising has one of the smoothest, most immersive styles of travel—unpack once, glide along iconic waterways, step right into the heart of Europe’s most charming towns, and enjoy curated, intimate excursions without the stress of planning. But with so many river cruise lines and itineraries, it’s normal to wonder: “Which river cruise is best for my first journey?”  Below are three exceptional itineraries across three trusted river cruise brands—each offering a perfect introduction to the world of river cruising. 🚢 1. Viking River Cruises ⭐ Top First-Time Itinerary: Rhine Getaway (Amsterdam to Basel) Viking is synonymous with river cruising, and their Rhine Getaway remains one of the most iconic itineraries in Europe. It’s ideal for a first-time cruiser looking for an easy, classic, and scenic introduction to the rivers. Trip Highlights Wander the canals and cozy neighborhoods of Amsterdam Enjoy cathedral views and Kölsch culture in Cologne Sail through the dramatic Middle Rhine , lined with castles Sip wine in the charming villages of the Alsace region End your journey in Basel , Switzerland’s cultural hub Why It’s Ideal for First-Timers This route is smooth, picturesque, and easy to navigate—perfect for guests who want history, beauty, and structured touring. Viking’s consistency, guided excursions, and relaxed elegance make it a standout for those new to river cruising.

Plan your dream vacation with Brilliant Journeys in Cypress, TX. Specializing in luxury cruises, all-inclusive resorts, European adventures, and destination weddings. Personalized service, local expertise, and exclusive travel deals await!

There’s something extraordinary about Costa Rica — a country where lush rainforests meet volcanic hot springs, where the air hums with life, and where pura vida (pure life) isn’t just a saying, it’s a way of being. During my recent trip , I had the opportunity to explore two incredible regions — Monteverde and Rincón de la Vieja — while meeting with local suppliers, hotels, and tourism boards . Over the course of a few days, I built valuable partnerships and gathered insider insights to help my clients experience the very best that Costa Rica has to offer.

Discover how custom incentive trips boost loyalty, performance, and retention. Brilliant Journeys curates unforgettable luxury travel rewards.