1. Who? Liddy Pleasants, Managing Director

My favourite destination this year: Bali & Komodo

My standout travel experience this year was the four days that I spent with the family on a private ‘phinisi’ (traditional fishing boat), sailing around the Komodo Islands. This formed part of a longer 2-week trip in Indonesia, where we had flown to meet up with my 19-year-old son who was on his gap year. We had seen the world’s largest Buddhist temple at Borobudur and explored Bali’s rice terraces at Sidemen (see Active Bali & Komodo for more). But those four days on board were as near a slice of heaven as I think possible.

By day, we’d sunbathe on deck…or jump off the deck (seemingly kids have an unending appetite for jumping into the water from ever higher points?!). We swam with manta rays, caught glimpses of turtles and came face to face with living dinosaurs (Komodo Dragons) on shore. By night, we dined under the stars, being waited on hand and foot. Utter bliss – and great for family bonding!

Where I’d like to go in 2026: Argentina

For some people, the great allure of Argentina is the dramatic mountains of Patagonia. But not for me! I’m always drawn to the stark beauty of the desert, and Argentina’s little-visited North-West has been on my wish-list for years. I’m soon to be heading there to explore the high altitude deserts, remote salt-flats, many-coloured mountains, and little-known vineyards. I’ll be hanging out with the gauchos, fitting in a visit to the mighty waterfalls at Iguazu and eating my body weight in steak!

2. Who? Charlotte Hamilton, Sales Manager

My favourite destination this year: Thailand & Laos

This summer, I finally gave in to my young teenage daughter’s badgering to visit Thailand. I’d always dismissed Thailand as being a little too mainstream and not quite adventurous enough for my tastes, but we loved it! We did the main touristy sites in Bangkok but then headed to less-visited Khao Yai National Park, where we saw wild elephants and almost zero other tourists. We also got our R&R fix on an island just 2 ½ hours from Bangkok, which was far less visited (and easier to reach) than those down south, and spent time up in the North East.

We also decided to add on a few days in Northern Laos, taking the ‘slow boat’ to Luang Prabang. My husband described our two days floating down the Mekong River, visiting different tribal villages and watching the scenery slowly change, as ‘the most relaxing thing he’d ever done, anywhere, ever!’ So a winning combination! Check out our Thailand itineraries and our Laos Highlights.

Where I’d like to go in 2026: Guatemala & Belize

As a self-confessed lover of a combo trip (two destinations in one holiday), I’m hoping to replicate the success of this year’s Asia trip in Central America. Although neighbours and sharing a Caribbean coastline, Guatemala and Belize seem to have that ‘best of both worlds’ vibe we love.

A volcano hike for my husband? Tick! Shopping in Central America’s largest handicraft market, Chichicastenango, for my bargain-hunting daughter, tick! Visiting Mayan pyramids at Tikal for culture, or river tubing for adventure, tick! All before a completely different, more laid-back beach experience in Belize, stuffing our faces with seafood, sunbathing, and swimming with sharks and rays in Caye Caulker. Bring it on!

3. Who? Sinead Bailey, Travel Consultant

My favourite destination this year: Oman

Although I’d visited Egypt and Jordan previously (and loved them both), this was the first time that my husband and two teenage sons had visited the Arabian Peninsula. It will definitely not be the last! From the second we arrived in Oman, we couldn’t believe how well developed and organised it was. Everything, from the roads to the hotels to the activities, worked just perfectly. With such a great infrastructure, Oman has ‘self-drive’ written all over it, and my sons loved exploring the desert in a Toyota Land Cruiser!

My personal highlights were staying in a gorgeous hotel with fabulous views over the Jebel Akhdar mountains and the incredibly welcoming people. For my sons, it’s a tie between sandboarding and dune bashing in the desert, and jet skiing and windsurfing on the beach at Muscat’s Shangri La. Here’s what else you could do!

Where I’d like to go in 2026: Madagascar

As an Africa specialist, I’ve been lucky enough to visit many countries across the continent, especially safari destinations. Madagascar, though, offers a completely different kind of wildlife-rich experience from the ones I’m used to; so it’s firmly on the 2026 bucket list. Instead of lions roaming the grasslands, I’m hoping to see lemurs leaping from rocks and trees and instead of the lone acacia, I’ll be wandering past avenues of Baobab.

I also like the idea that travelling through Madagascar will be a more raw and rugged experience – rather like travel was 30 years ago. And, as a bonus, I’ve also been told by our MD, Liddy Pleasants, that the beaches here rival the Maldives, yet are relatively undeveloped! I’ll report back!

4. Who? Caroline Dolby-Bingham, Travel Consultant

My favourite destination this year: Brazil

As introductions to new destinations go, flying by private plane into the Pantanal felt like something out of a James Bond film! I was absolutely blown away by this unique wetland landscape, which only kept getting better when we swapped the plane for horse-riding and herding cattle!

This is the thing about Brazil: experiences feel bigger and better, whether it’s spotting a jaguar in the Pantanal or being lowered into a deep, flooded cave in Bonito. And don’t even get me started on the cultural melting pot that is Rio, a city that was every bit as lively and chaotic as you’d expect. Ending the trip with some well-earned chill-out time in sunny and stylish Búzios, Brazil’s very own version of Marbella, was the perfect finale!

Where I’d like to go in 2026: Western Canada

It’s always so hard to pick just one country, but the family is keen to go back to Canada. We had a fabulous holiday in Eastern Canada a few years back, with lots of fun at Niagara and Algonquin, and the girls loved the cool Toronto vibe. However, I was awe-struck by a colleague’s photos of bears, elk, snow-capped mountains, and endless forests when she returned from Banff and Western Canada.

So with the promise of bear and whale watching on Vancouver Island, kayaking with dolphins, and Vancouver city’s vibrant food scene, Stubborn Mule’s Western Canada itinerary is right at the top of the family travel list for next year.

5. Who? Emma Linnitt, Travel Consultant

My favourite destination this year: Japan

Although I lived and travelled throughout Asia for nearly 20 years, I’d never managed to make it to Japan until this year. But it really was worth the wait – I’ve always loved culture and history, and Japan delivered on both, in abundance.

It’s a place unlike anywhere else in Asia, totally unique and with such striking contrasts. For me, the highlight was the food – from exquisite sushi and steaming bowls of ramen to crisp tempura… even the humble 7-Eleven egg sandwiches are worth a mention! It’s totally crazy but completely captivating, and absolutely worth it.

Where I’d like to go in 2026: the Philippines

Well, that’s an almost impossible question to answer! Mexico and Belize are near the top of my travel list for 2026, but I’d particularly jump at the chance to visit one of Stubborn Mule’s newest destinations, the Philippines. My kids have grown up now, but they’d have loved the paradise beaches that the Philippine islands are famous for. And as you’d expect, lots of the activities are water-based, from snorkelling coral reefs, kayaking through mangroves, to sailing around islands on an outrigger.

The cultural side also appeals to me, as I’m always drawn to lively Asian cities, with their buzzing night markets and exciting cuisines. I’m also keen to check out one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, UNESCO Heritage-listed, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. It’s a site of great natural beauty and significant geological features, and they say the cave system is spectacular.

6. Who? Robyn Glenn, Travel Consultant

My favourite destination this year: Belize

I was so excited to visit Belize this year, and the moment I arrived by ferry into Ambergris Caye, I fell in love with its tropical charm – sandy roads, golf carts, palm trees, and laid-back vibes. Caye Caulker was even more relaxed, all reggae beats and Caribbean spirit. Snorkelling at Hol Chan and Shark Alley was unforgettable – I spotted a manatee, turtle, and vibrant fish (despite the choppy sea and a touch of sunburn!).

On the mainland, San Ignacio brought a whole new thrill. Exploring the ATM cave, squeezing through gaps and wading across rivers to see ancient skeletons was incredible. From reef to rainforest, Belize completely stole my heart! Check out our Belize Adventure Highlights sample itinerary, see what I did.

Where I’d like to visit in 2026: New Zealand

It’s been over ten years since I last visited New Zealand, and I’ve been longing to return ever since. Comprising two islands, North and South, means you experience huge contrasts – dramatic snow-capped mountains, lush forests, rugged coastlines, and an outdoor lifestyle we all crave.

I want to revisit the glowworm caves on the North Island, explore surf towns around Hawke’s Bay, and tackle some of the stunning hikes on the South Island, from Abel Tasman National Park to the Glenorchy Mountains (see our example New Zealand itineraries for more). And of course, embrace every adventure activity along the way!  Oh, and yes – I’m still dreaming of those buttery pies NZ is famous for, along with a chilled glass of New Zealand white wine at sunset.

7. Who? Emma Magnus, Travel Consultant

My favourite destination this year: Tanzania

My family and I are real wildlife lovers, but it’s only been this year that I’ve been able to go on my first classic African Safari – to Tanzania. Let’s just say, I’m a total convert. Up close and personal Big 5 encounters, like seeing lions lounging in the trees and vast herds of wildebeest, I’d expected. But what fascinated me was just how different the landscapes are depending on the national park (27 in total!), from wide open plains to acacia-dotted savannahs, and lush, green forests.

I also loved watching the Maasai herding their goats in their brightly coloured robes, as well as meeting the Ndatoga and Nzabe tribes. The days were long and action-packed with game viewing, cycling through banana plantations, safari walks, and much more, so we especially loved Zanzibar’s white sandy beaches and turquoise waters at the end of the trip.

Where I’d like to go next: Sri Lanka

This part of Asia will be new to me, and I can’t wait to experience it all – and not just the wildlife in Yala National Park!! What appeals to me most is that Sri Lanka seems to pack such a lot in. You can experience a huge range of landscapes and cultures, yet the driving distances between them are quite short. One day, you are staying in a tea plantation in a colonial-style building, and the next exploring the jungle for leopards or washing elephants in rivers. It all just sounds wonderful!

I admit that spending a few days relaxing on a palm-fringed beach, maybe swinging in a hammock, also appeals! See our example Sri Lanka itineraries for an idea of what you can do and see.

8. Who? Alex Kinsman, Travel Consultant

My favourite destination this year: Colombia

I travelled to Colombia in September and it was an incredible experience – rich in culture, food, and personality! It’s a destination that truly offers something for everyone, from picturesque horse riding through the coffee plantations to hiking deep into the jungle of Tayrona.

I was blown away by how much you can do in each location and how diverse the country is. I loved the contrast between the colourful old town of Cartagena, lined with jazz-and-salsa playing cafés and colonial houses, with the completely chilled and beautiful Caribbean coast. Check out our Colombia with Kids Top 10 feature and you’ll see why I think families will find this a fascinating place to holiday.

Where I’d like to visit in 2026: Georgia

I would love to visit Georgia next year to experience a completely different side of travel and truly get off the beaten track. After exploring Uzbekistan this year, I’ve become fascinated by countries along the Silk Road, where cultures merge in a captivating blend of Europe and Asia.

Georgia has long intrigued me – its warm hospitality is said to be unlike anywhere else and I’m excited to see the breathtaking mountain landscapes. I would love to take a few days exploring the countryside on horseback to get a glimpse of the rural mountain areas and experience daily life far from the cities. Riding through remote villages and staying in family-run guesthouses would be such an authentic way to see it all.

9. Who? Kelly Perks, Product Manager

My favourite destination this year: Kenya

I’ve wanted to travel to Kenya for over 20 years, and my time finally came in 2025 – and it far exceeded my expectations. The game drives were completely thrilling, despite the bumps! From the first (of many) grazing zebra and strutting ostriches, right up to the most exciting views of lions and cubs in the grass, I loved it all.

Samburu’s landscapes are beautifully rugged and Mount Kenya gorgeously green – such a vibrant contrast. Don’t miss spending time in Nairobi at the start or end of your trip. Nairobi National Park is packed with wildlife and we can arrange a walk through the informal settlement area of Kibera to glimpse life through the eyes of a ‘born and bred’ local. Check out our family safari adventure in Kenya if you’d like to see some great photos!

Where I’d like to visit in 2026: Galapagos Islands

As a family of nature lovers, a dream holiday to the Galapagos Islands is currently top of our list. My teenagers would adore snorkelling with penguins and strolling among the tortoises. I’m not a sea-lover, though, so we’ll do it land-based and stay in hotels on the islands – great for getting out to local restaurants in the evenings. The biggest question is which country to pair it with?

Mainland Ecuador sounds fabulous, with volcanoes, horse-riding, biking, the equator and jungle. But I’m also considering a combo with Peru (I’ve been before, but the rest of the family hasn’t, and they’d love to see Machu Picchu). Or even Costa Rica, so the kids can see sloths in the wild? Either way, making the final decision is half the fun!

10. Who? Lee Douglas, Systems Manager

My favourite destination this year: Kefalonia and Ithaca – Greece

They say that every Greek island is unique, and having visited Crete for the first time last year (I’ve been late to the party when it comes to Greece), and now Kefalonia and Ithaca this summer, I completely agree. Kefalonia! What a treat! The island that inspired Captain Corelli’s Mandolin really is the perfect size for a family to explore, but it’s the light and intensely turquoise waters that made every photo look like a holiday brochure.

Ithaca, though, felt really different. Far less visited than many other islands, its untouched remoteness made it feel even more authentic. My top tip? Hire a small motorboat (no license necessary) to explore the secluded coves and enjoy the beaches to yourself (apart from the goats).

Where I’d like to go next:  Montenegro

It might be a cliché that Montenegro is the new Croatia, but having visited the latter a few years ago, I’m really keen to explore its southern neighbour. Families and friends who’ve visited both say that it has the same magnificent coastline that you get in Croatia, but there are even more opportunities for active adventure. My kids, both in their late teens, love everything like that, including canyoning, zip-lining, hiking, white-water rafting, plus it’s far easier on the wallet. What’s not to love?!! Check out our sample Montenegro itinerary for more on what to do and see there on family holidays in 2026.

Next steps for family holidays 2026

Wherever in the world you want to go, get in touch for the best family holiday advice for 2026 and beyond – ring us during office hours at 01728 752751 or use our website contact form. We’d love to hear from you.

You can also explore our round-up of all the best family holiday destinations we offer for the coming year.

Liddy Pleasants, MD Stubborn Mule Travel