From Himalayas to Desert Skies: 5 Transformative Destinations to Discover in 2026

In 2026, travel is no longer simply about the places you go. It is a curated experience of the senses, a journey that nurtures body, mind, and spirit while indulging in the art of living beautifully. Across the globe, extraordinary destinations are redefining wellness, merging ancient rituals with modern luxury and experiences that linger long after the journey ends.

For women seeking more than escape, we spotlight five wellness retreats, exclusive gateways to renewal. From the serene Himalayan foothills to the windswept expanse of desert landscapes, these journeys balance meditation with thrill, serenity with style, and self-care with the art of living luxuriously.

Rishikesh: The Himalayan Haven of Inner Harmony

Perched in the mist-kissed foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is where ancient spiritual traditions meet modern healing. Revered as the “Yoga Capital of the World,” it has long been a sanctuary for those seeking self-discovery. The city pulses with color and celebration year-round, from vibrant spring festivals to devotional summer pilgrimages, filling the air with music, incense, and reverent energy.

For a truly transformative experience, Ananda in the Himalayas is an unmissable destination. This storied wellness retreat marries understated elegance with a spectrum of holistic offerings—from bespoke yoga sessions to tailored Ayurveda therapies—each designed to restore equilibrium and uplift the spirit.

Amsterdam: A Capital of Creativity

Amsterdam is a masterclass in balance, melding old-world quaintness with thrumming urban energy. Explore the city by bicycle along its iconic canals, immerse yourself in the avant-garde exhibitions and seasonal wildflower displays at the Zaanstad Amsterdam Museum, or discover the quirky art studios and cafés of up-and-coming neighborhoods like Amsterdam-Noord.

The city’s calendar mirrors the natural rhythm of the seasons: spring brings the famed tulip blooms, while winter glows with the Festival of Lights. Culinary excellence is equally dynamic: The Dylan Amsterdam showcases Michelin-starred, locally sourced menus that honor seasonality while pushing gastronomic boundaries.

Kyoto: A Heritage of Mindful Luxury

Kyoto unfolds like a living story, where centuries-old temples, heritage streets, and cultural rituals come alive with every step. Lose yourself in lantern-lit celebrations, sip matcha in a centuries-old tea ceremony, or take a reflective walk through tranquil temple gardens. 

Opening this year in a beautifully restored Gion theatre, the Imperial Hotel Kyoto blends traditional Japanese architecture with sleek, contemporary design. With curated cultural experiences, serene meditative spaces, and bespoke wellness offerings, it’s a base from which to explore Kyoto’s profound sense of presence.

Monteverde: A Lush Sanctuary for the Senses

High in Costa Rica’s mist-draped highlands, Monteverde is a sanctuary of verdant beauty. Celebrating 50 years of conservation, the cloud forests teem with exotic flora and fauna, inviting travelers to slow down, wander mindfully, and reconnect with the jungle.

Hotel Belmar, an alpine-inspired eco-lodge perched above the forest canopy, elevates sustainability into an art form. In 2026, new nature-immersive wellness spaces and a regenerative restaurant menu—crafted from on-site gardens—promise to heighten the sense of harmony. An artists-in-residence program infuses a creative heartbeat into this green retreat, offering a dynamic interplay of imagination and inspiration amidst breathtaking surroundings. 

Mongolia: Desert Dreams

Mongolia stretches like a living horizon, where the past and future meet in sweeping deserts and endless steppes. In 2026, the country will host international forums celebrating environmental stewardship, highlighting the care of its unique desert landscapes.

Honoring its nomadic roots, Mongolia comes alive with festivals and traditional games—from thrilling camel races across the Gobi to competitions that showcase centuries-old skills. New tailor-made journeys invite travelers to step beyond conventional tourism: sleep beneath the desert stars, share stories with local families, and feel the raw, untamed beauty of the open steppe. Here, adventure is personal, immersive, and unforgettable, a true odyssey for those willing to embrace Mongolia’s mystique.