Your Best Trip of the Year Could Still Be Ahead.

If your calendar is filling up and you’re starting to think, “Well, I guess this year got away from me,” we’d like to gently disagree.

Because here’s the thing: some of the best trips don’t happen after months of overthinking. They happen when you finally decide to stop waiting for the “perfect” time.

There are still incredible journeys departing before the year is over, from festive European Christmas markets to wildlife encounters that belong on your vision board. Whether you’re craving one last adventure before the holidays or looking to end the year on a high note, there’s still time to make it happen.

Here are a few of our favorite departures that prove 2026 isn’t over just yet.

For the Foodies: Vietnam Culture & Culinary

If your favorite travel memories revolve around what’s on the menu, this one’s for you.

From bustling street markets in Hanoi to hands-on cooking experiences and unforgettable local flavors, this journey dives deep into Vietnam’s rich culture through its cuisine. Along the way, you’ll experience ancient temples, vibrant cities, peaceful countryside, and the warm hospitality that makes Vietnam so unforgettable.

Perfect for: Travelers who believe the best way to understand a destination is one bite at a time.

For Nature Lovers: Costa Rica Cruising & Wildlife

Imagine waking up to howler monkeys instead of alarm clocks.

This expedition-style adventure explores Costa Rica’s spectacular coastline, rainforests, and protected national parks, where sloths, scarlet macaws, monkeys, dolphins, and sea turtles all make regular appearances. It’s equal parts relaxation and discovery, with the added bonus of unpacking just once.

Perfect for: Anyone who’d rather trade emails for wildlife sightings.

For Holiday Magic: Danube Christmas Markets Cruise

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping inside a snow globe, this is about as close as it gets.

Sail along the Danube while visiting Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets, where twinkling lights, mulled wine, handcrafted ornaments, and centuries-old traditions transform every town into something straight out of a holiday movie.

It’s festive without feeling overdone, and somehow manages to make even the biggest holiday skeptics feel a little more cheerful.

Perfect for: Travelers who start playing Christmas music before Thanksgiving.

For Bucket Lists: Wonders of New Zealand

New Zealand has a way of making every landscape feel like it’s trying to outdo the last.

Think dramatic fjords, geothermal wonders, rolling vineyards, glacier-carved valleys, and charming coastal towns, all wrapped into one unforgettable itinerary. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, this destination has a way of surprising even seasoned travelers.

Perfect for: Adventurers who want a little bit of everything.

For the Italy Lovers: Cinque Terre, Lake Como & Venice

There are Italy trips…and then there are Italy trips.

This itinerary brings together three of the country’s most iconic destinations. Wander the colorful villages of Cinque Terre, soak in the timeless elegance of Lake Como, then finish among Venice’s winding canals and hidden piazzas.

It’s everything you love about Italy, beautiful scenery, incredible food, and that unmistakable dolce vita feeling.

Perfect for: Anyone who’s never met a pasta they didn’t like.

For the Ultimate Adventure: Galápagos & Machu Picchu

Why choose between two bucket-list destinations when you can experience both?

This extraordinary journey combines the wildlife-rich Galápagos Islands with the legendary ruins of Machu Picchu. One day you’re spotting giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies; the next you’re standing atop one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites.

Not many trips can claim that kind of range.

Perfect for: Travelers who collect unforgettable moments, not souvenirs.

For Families: Botswana Family Safari

Forget the usual family vacation.

A Botswana safari introduces kids (and adults) to Africa’s incredible wildlife in a way that no documentary ever could. Expert guides, family-friendly camps, and unforgettable game drives create meaningful experiences that everyone will be talking about long after they get home.

Spoiler alert: no one will miss screen time.

Perfect for: Families looking to trade theme parks for elephants.

The Year Isn’t Over Yet.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to book that trip, consider this it.

There’s something satisfying about ending the year with a passport full of fresh stamps, a camera roll full of memories, and stories you’ll still be telling well into next year. Whether you’re chasing sunshine, holiday magic, wildlife, or world-class cuisine, there’s still plenty of time to make it happen.

The best part? You don’t have to figure it all out alone. Your Avenue Two Travel advisor can help you find the departure that fits your schedule, your travel style, and your “I’ve been meaning to do this forever” list.

Because the calendar may be winding down, but your next adventure doesn’t have to wait.