Why My Clients Are Choosing the Caribbean in 2026

Kelli Pike • January 6, 2026

2026 is calling for slower mornings, softer days, and island time done intentionally 

There’s a shift happening.

As I plan travel for 2026, one destination continues to rise to the top: the Caribbean Islands.

And it’s not just about beautiful beaches or warm weather — though those certainly help. What I’m seeing is something deeper. A collective desire to slow down, to choose ease, and to travel with intention.


In 2026, my clients are prioritizing experiences that feel restorative rather than rushed. They’re seeking destinations that allow them to disconnect from the noise of everyday life and reconnect with themselves, their partners, and the simple pleasure of being present. The Caribbean offers that kind of reset effortlessly.

Travelers are choosing longer stays on a single island rather than hopping between destinations. They’re gravitating toward intimate, luxury resorts where service feels intuitive and privacy is respected. The focus has shifted from doing more to feeling more — slow mornings by the sea, unhurried afternoons, and evenings that unfold naturally.

As a luxury travel designer, my role is to curate Caribbean getaways that feel personal and elevated. That means selecting islands and resorts that align with each client’s pace, preferences, and reasons for traveling. Whether it’s a romantic escape, an anniversary celebration, or simply time to recharge, the Caribbean allows for travel that feels both indulgent and grounding.

What I love most about planning Caribbean travel for 2026 is how thoughtful travel requests have become. Travelers ask for experiences that feel authentic, not overproduced. Private boat days instead of packed excursions. Candlelit dinners on the beach instead of crowded restaurants. Space to breathe, wander, and just be.

The Caribbean has always held a certain magic, but in 2026, it feels especially aligned with how people want to travel. It’s an invitation to slow down, embrace warmth — both literal and emotional — and return home feeling renewed.

If you’re considering the Caribbean Islands in 2026, I’d love to help you design a luxury escape that feels effortless, intentional, and completely your own.

— Kelli

The Souvenir We Didn’t Know We’d Miss

By Kelli Pike • January 14, 2026
There’s something undeniably nostalgic about flipping through a passport filled with inked memories — each stamp a quiet reminder of where you’ve been and who you were when you were there. But that chapter of travel is slowly closing. Singapore officially stopped stamping foreign visitors’ passports in 2022, and now much of Europe is following suit. With the rollout of the new Entry/Exit System across 29 European countries through April 2026, travelers can expect e-gates, facial recognition, and biometric screening to replace traditional passport stamps. The shift promises smoother, faster border crossings — less time in line, more time wandering cobblestone streets. Still, for many travelers, the loss of that tiny but meaningful souvenir feels bittersweet. Countries transitioning away from passport stamps include: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. Travel is evolving — becoming more digital, more efficient, more seamless. But the heart of it remains the same: the stories you collect, the moments that change you, the memories that stay long after the journey ends. Will you miss passport stamps, or are you ready for the digital era of travel? Source: The Smart Local Singapore
Sunglasses on beach, reflecting golden sunset.

Why You Should Book an All-Inclusive Vacation Through a Travel Advisor

By Kelli Pike • January 12, 2026
Ever wish travel planning felt… easy? Like you could just pick the destination, pack your suitcase, and let everything else be handled? That’s exactly what working with a travel advisor feels like. 🤍 All-Inclusive, But Make It Elevated Yes — food, drinks, experiences, and amenities are included. But when you plan with an advisor, you also get guidance, personalization, and peace of mind. No second-guessing. No endless tabs open. No “did I book the right place?” You’re Not Just Booking a Resort You’re choosing the right resort for your travel style. Romantic getaway? Anniversary trip? Friends escape? Reset and recharge? Not every beautiful property fits every traveler — that’s where I come in. Real Insight, Not Just Pretty Photos I tour resorts, stay connected with industry partners, and lean on first-hand experience and trusted advisor intel. So when I recommend a destination or property, it’s because it actually delivers. And If Something Goes Sideways? You’re not alone. You have someone advocating for you, troubleshooting, and handling the logistics while you stay in vacation mode. The Goal Is Simple You dream. You get excited. You pack. I handle the rest. And truly? That’s my favorite part of what I do. 🤍 — Kelli 🌺
Couple kissing on a boat with rock formations in the background, blue water and sunny day.

Why a Travel Advisor can elevate your next excursion

By Kelli Pike • January 7, 2026
Excursions are one of the best ways to deepen your travel experience—whether it’s soaring across a zipline in the Caribbean, wandering local markets in Riviera Maya, or savoring a private cooking class in coastal Italy. But with so many options, choosing the right excursion can feel overwhelming. That’s where a travel advisor comes in. As experienced travelers and destination experts, travel advisors bring first-hand knowledge, insider connections, and curated recommendations to the table. They know which tours are must-dos, which operators are reliable, and which experiences will resonate with your style and pace. Beyond guidance, they handle the logistics too—booking, timing, and even coordinating transportation—so your vacation feels seamless from start to finish. Working with an advisor can also unlock perks and exclusive offers you won’t find online, from discounted excursions to priority access at top destinations. And when it comes to preparation, advisors ensure you arrive ready—advising on what to pack, what to wear, and how to make the most of every adventure. With a trusted travel advisor, excursions become more than just activities—they become thoughtfully designed moments that elevate your entire journey.