🗺️ Where is Just A Small World Going in 2026? A Year of Alpine Peaks, Desert Vistas, and Maritime Shores!
Hello, fellow wanderlusters! I am absolutely thrilled to finally pull back the curtain and share the epic journey that Just a Small World has planned for 2026. Buckle up because we’re embarking on three distinct, month-long adventures!
This year is all about contrasts: the sophisticated sparkle of Europe, the rugged, sublime beauty of the American Southwest, and the charming, coastal spirit of Atlantic Canada. I can’t wait to share all the planning, tips, and tales with you!
🌸 Spring Awakening: A Month of Alpine & Lakeside Charm (Late March / Early April)
Our 2026 travels kick off with an ambitious, month-long tour of some of Europe's most captivating regions, catching the tail end of winter and the first signs of spring. This trip is designed to blend stunning natural beauty with rich, centuries-old culture.
📍 The Destinations
Zurich, Switzerland: Kicking things off with Swiss sophistication and lakeside walks.
Lichtenstein: A brief but exciting visit to one of Europe's smallest and most unique nations. Expect a post on everything you can see in a day!
Munich, Germany: Diving into Bavarian culture, exploring grand architecture, and enjoying classic German beer and fare.
Salzburg, Austria: The "City of Music" calls! Think Sound of Music and the sites from the classic musical.
Alsace, France: Picturesque villages, half-timbered houses, and wine routes are definitely on the itinerary. We’re ready for some serious fairytale charm.
Belgium: Indulging in world-class chocolate, waffles, and centuries of art and history. (Plus, the beer, of course!)
Lake Como, Italy: Exploring the breathtaking beauty of this famous Northern Italian lake, blending glamour and tranquillity. Bellissima!
Lugano, Switzerland: The scenic Southern Swiss city with its own stunning lake, blending Italian flair with Swiss precision, is the final destination of our European trip.
✨ What I’m Excited About:
We’re excited for the contrast between the bustling, cultural hubs like Munich and the serene, natural beauty of Lake Como and the Swiss Alps. Plus, ticking Lichtenstein off the travel list will be a fun milestone!
🏜️ High Summer Escape: The Mighty 5 to the Four Corners! (June)
From Europe's lush peaks, we're shifting gears completely and heading into the monumental, sun-drenched landscapes of the American Southwest for a magnificent national park and canyon adventure that stretches across Utah and Arizona!
📍 The Destinations
This trip is a full-on immersion into the American Southwest:
Utah's National Parks: We'll be hitting the famed "Mighty Five"—Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches. Expect towering canyon walls, hoodoos, expansive deserts, and some epic hiking guides.
Northern Arizona Canyons: We are venturing south to experience the heart of the Colorado Plateau, including the stunning slot canyons of Antelope Canyon, the dramatic overlook of Horseshoe Bend, and the geological marvels of Marble Canyon.
The Four Corners Region (Navajo Nation): Diving into the history and culture of the region, we'll visit the unforgettable landscape of Monument Valley, the historical dwellings of Canyon de Chelly, and the geographic marker of the Four Corners Monument.
✨ What I’m Excited About:
The sheer scale of the natural world in this region is awe-inspiring. I'm looking forward to catching the sunset in Bryce Canyon, navigating the trails of Zion National Park, descending into the ethereal light of Antelope Canyon, and sharing tips for hiking and handling the summer heat in the desert!
⚓ The Maritime Magic of Canada (July / August)
Our final major trip of the year will transport us to the stunning coastal provinces of Eastern Canada before culminating on the famous shores of Maine, embracing a slower pace, rich history, and incredible seafood.
📍 The Destinations
Quebec: Starting with a taste of old-world Europe in North America. Think charming cobblestone streets, delicious French cuisine, and the history of Quebec City and Montreal.
Nova Scotia: Exploring the famous Cabot Trail, visiting Peggy’s Cove, and soaking up the lively maritime culture of Halifax.
Prince Edward Island (PEI): A true haven for foodies and nature lovers! We’re focusing on the island’s picturesque beaches, stunning coastal walks along the famous red-sand cliffs, and diving deep into the incredible local culinary scene.
Bar Harbor, Maine & Acadia National Park: We will cross the border to finish our adventure in the quintessential New England coastal town of Bar Harbor and explore the dramatic, granite-capped mountains and rugged coastline of Acadia National Park.
✨ What I’m Excited About:
This trip is all about charm and coastlines. We’re eager to experience the legendary hospitality of the Atlantic provinces of Canada, drive the famous Park Loop Road in Acadia, and enjoy all the delicious seafood the Atlantic Coast has to offer.
🎉 Counting down to our travels in 2026!
2026 is shaping up to be an unforgettable year of diverse adventures, spanning European lakes, desert peaks, and Atlantic coastlines. I hope you'll follow along as we plan, pack, and explore these incredible destinations.
Which trip are you most excited to follow? Let me know in the comments below!
