Looking for inspiration for your next incentive trip (or at least a reason to daydream between budget meetings)? This week’s travel headlines are packed with big shifts, bold trends and a few reminders that logistics still matter as much as wow factor.
Bangkok just snagged three spots in the top 10 of the World’s 50 Best Hotels, reinforcing its status as a luxury‑forward incentive haven along the Chao Phraya River. Meanwhile, 2026 is shaping up to be the year of “purposeful wanderlust,” with travelers craving bucket‑list moments, all‑inclusive ease and far‑flung cultural immersion. And before you send your team abroad, there’s a new alphabet to know: ETAs, the digital travel authorizations quickly becoming the gatekeepers for global entry.
As always, Smart Travel is here to bring you the latest updates shaping the way we move, meet and plan.
Bangkok Hotels Climb Global Rankings
Three luxury Bangkok hotels have secured spots in the top 10 of the World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025 list, reinforcing Thailand’s rising profile as a premier destination. Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River ranked No. 2, followed by Capella Bangkok (No. 3) and Mandarin Oriental Bangkok (No. 7), all offering five-star service and seamless access to the cultural heart of the city.
Read More: Luxury, Culture and White Lotus in Thailand
For planners looking to wow high performers, the recognition is a timely reminder that Bangkok blends award-winning hospitality with authentic experiences, from floating market excursions to curated spa and culinary journeys. “This recognition reflects Thailand’s world-class standards for hospitality, design and cultural richness,” said Chompu Marusachot, director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s New York office.
With strong airlift, high-value luxury offerings and a growing reputation for immersive group experiences, Bangkok continues to deliver on both wow factor and ROI.
New Survey Reveals Travelers’ 2026 Priorities
If business travel is about motivating teams with meaningful experiences, 2026 is shaping up to be a banner year. According to a new survey of TravelSavers and Nest advisors, travelers are leaning into highly personalized, bucket-list-worthy adventures—with a side of five-star comfort, of course.
Italy remains the undisputed champ for top destination, but Asia and Eastern Europe are making a strong showing, with Japan grabbing the No. 1 trending spot and countries like Hungary, the Czech Republic and Romania emerging as stylish (and less crowded) destinations. The takeaway for planners? Teams are hungry for new horizons.
On the style front, all-inclusive travel tops the charts. But forget the old buffet-and-wristband model; today’s resort experience comes with elevated dining, bespoke wellness offerings and a sleek, younger clientele. River cruising, active adventures and high-touch luxury travel are also trending, offering a well-rounded slate of options for every type of team.
Perhaps most telling is the rise of “bucket-list” and “treat yourself” travel. Teams are embracing once-in-a-lifetime experiences with intention, whether it’s a Northern Lights excursion or a private food tour through Vietnam. The vibe for 2026? Do it big and make it count.
For planners, that means incentives need to be more than just pretty destinations; they need to be meaningful, customizable and Instagram-worthy, too.
ETAs Are Changing Border Control—Here’s What Planners Need to Know
Incentive travel may be going global, but crossing borders in 2026 and beyond won’t be as simple as booking a flight and packing a passport. A growing list of countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and soon the European Union, now require electronic travel authorizations (ETAs), and many travelers still don’t realize it until it’s almost too late.
According to a recent iVisa report, more than a quarter of all ETA applications in 2025 were filed less than 48 hours before departure. That’s not a great margin for error, especially when a missed form can mean a missed flight.
Unlike traditional visas, ETAs are quick, digital permits for short stays and are typically required of travelers from visa-waiver countries. They’re faster and cheaper than full visas, but they still require pre-planning. Upcoming rollouts include the EU’s ETIAS (slated for 2026), South Korea’s expanded K-ETA and potential new systems in Thailand, South Africa and Japan.
For planners managing international programs, the rise of ETAs is a logistical challenge worth watching. Even if your group is traveling to a “visa-free” country, they may still need to apply, pay a small fee and receive approval before boarding.
The big takeaway: “Visa-free” no longer means friction-free. As more destinations digitize their borders, staying ahead of entry requirements is essential for your team and your attendees.
Oceania Cruises Adds Winter Mediterranean Voyages for 2027–28
Winter sun, without the crowds? Oceania Cruises is leaning into the slower season with its first-ever full winter schedule in the Mediterranean, offering 17 sailings from November 2027 through March 2028 aboard the new Oceania Allura.
The itineraries (ranging from 9 to 26 days) trade summer bustle for off-season charm. Activity options include enjoying mulled wine in Moroccan souks, Christmas markets in Rome’s Piazza Navona and quiet strolls through Istanbul’s old quarter. Destinations include Spain, Italy, Greece, Montenegro and Turkey, with extended port calls and overnights designed for deeper immersion.
Read More: Royal Caribbean Launches “World’s Biggest Weekend” Cruise with New Mega-Ship Utopia of the Seas
“Winter sailings in the Mediterranean have a completely different pace and atmosphere,” said Jason Montague, chief luxury officer at Oceania Cruises. “We’re offering guests more time to experience the region’s rich flavors, traditions and character.”
The new voyages could be an ideal fit for incentive planners seeking something unexpected—off-peak dates, festive cultural moments and a chance to reward top performers.
Airlines Aim for Fast Rebound Before Thanksgiving
Even with the shutdown behind us, the skies aren’t quite clear yet—but there’s cautious optimism. Airlines say they’re ready to bounce back within days of the FAA lifting its order to reduce flights at 40 high-volume airports, originally issued due to air traffic controller shortages during the government shutdown.
On Wednesday, the FAA confirmed it would cap flight reductions at 6% instead of increasing to the previously planned 10%, citing a meaningful return of staffing across key facilities. Airline execs, including American’s CEO Robert Isom, say they’re already seeing operational improvement and expect to deliver a “strong Thanksgiving operation.”
Still, no timeline has been announced for lifting the FAA’s order entirely. For now, planners should stay alert, especially on regional routes, where cuts have been concentrated to protect major hubs from severe disruptions.
