TSA bans new items in checked bags. See what they are, why they're banned.
There are three new items banned by TSA that you may need to know about.
Here's what they are and how to prevent your items from being taken away.
TSA bans some cordless hair tools in checked luggage
Do you use cordless hair devices for your hair routine? It might be best to keep them at home, because they may contain potentially hazardous materials, like gas cartridges and butane, which are banned by TSA.
The Federal Aviation Administration says that these kinds of cordless hair tools are banned, according to TheStreet:
Cordless curling irons or flatirons containing gas cartridges
Butane-fueled curling irons or flat irons
Gas refills (spare cartridges) for curling irons or flat irons
If TSA finds these banned items in your checked bags, your luggage will be taken away.
These items are allowed in your carry-on, however, as long as they have safety covers to prevent activation.
Hair tools with cords are fine for checked or carry-on bags.
9 weird items you can bring through TSA security checkpoints
If you're a cowboy who likes Harry Potter and you want to celebrate Christmas with festive lights and a live lobster, you should have little trouble getting through TSA at the airport.
These bizarre and unexpected items are TSA-approved:
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Live lobsters: Live lobsters are allowed through security, but TSA says your lobster friend must be transported in a clear, plastic, spill-proof container. A TSA officer will visually inspect your lobster at the checkpoint.
Christmas lights: If you're feeling a bit of holiday cheer, TSA allows Christmas lights in either carry-on or checked bags.
Cowboy spurs: Cowboy spurs are allowed, but they have to be off your boots and placed in carry-on and checked bags.
Antlers: Antlers are allowed on board as a carry-on or can go inside your checked bags, but there's a snag — you need to ensure that the item will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane, if you're bringing it as a carry-on.
Harry Potter wands, light sabers: Both your Harry Potter wands and Star Wars light sabers are safe to fly. "Sadly, the technology doesn't currently exist to create a real lightsaber. However, you can pack a toy lightsaber in your carry-on or checked bag. May the force be with you," TSA adds.
Coffee and espresso makers: Need an extra jolt of energy? TSA says that coffee and espresso makers are allowed, but you should carefully pack it and make sure all cords are wrapped. TSA recommends packing them in your carry-on.
Magic 8 ball: While your fortune-telling ball can't go in carry-on bags, it's good to fly in checked bags. According to TSA, "For carry-on bags: We asked the Magic 8 Ball and it told us … Outlook not so good! For checked bags: We asked the Magic 8 Ball and it told us … It is certain!"
Sewing machines: Sewing machines are allowed to fly in your checked luggage or carry-on, but TSA says you should check with the airline to ensure that the item will fit in the plane's overhead bin or underneath the seat.
Waffle irons: Waffle irons will go through TSA checkpoints as a carry-on or in checked baggage, but make sure that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.
Not sure what's allowed or prohibited to bring on board? See the complete list on TSA's website.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: TSA just banned these items in checked bags. See what they are.
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Forbes
25 minutes ago
- Forbes
Best Potty Training Seats 2025
As a mom of three—including twin toddlers currently in the throes of potty training—I've quickly discovered that the process looks different for every child. After interviewing pediatricians and child development experts, and personally testing 15 different potty training seats, one thing became clear: the right seat can make a big difference. When a potty seat puts kids into an ideal ergonomic position and appeals to the child, the whole process is a lot smoother. Of all the models my kids tried,The First Years Super Pooper Plus Potty Training System With Foot Rest quickly emerged as the best potty training seat thanks to its supportive positioning for a bowel movement, its ease of use and its fun flushing features that keep kids motivated. Above all, pediatrician Dr. Rosana Lastra recommends proper ergonomic positioning. 'A seat that allows feet to rest flat with knees above the hips puts the body in a natural squat, which relaxes the pelvic floor and makes pooping easier,' she says. In addition to our top pick, the Kalencom Potette Plus 2-In-1 Travel Potty Trainer Seat is ideal for travel—you can use it in the car by attaching a disposable bag, and you can take it into a public restroom and place it on top of the seat. Learn more about all of our top picks, including some that double as a step stool. Our Top Recommendations Best Potty Training Seat Overall Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Type: 2-in-1 (potty chair and seat insert) | Special Features: Foot rest for proper alignment, buttons for toddlers to push Pros: Cons: This potty checks all the boxes, making it an excellent choice for potty-training toddlers. First and foremost, it supports the proper body alignment that Lastra recommends—the integrated stool allows kids to prop their feet up. As they get older and their legs get longer, you can remove the top part of the foot rest. 'My number one priority when choosing a potty seat is that it supports proper body alignment. This is especially important for pooping because we don't want kids straining,' she says. Once they're ready for the big toilet, remove the seat and use it as a toilet insert instead. It's not just great for bowel movements, either. It has a splash guard to prevent urine from spilling out of the front. I was worried that the foot rest would get in the way when my boys stand to pee, but they haven't had any issues at all. The foot rest alone is enough to make this potty fun for my toddlers, and they also really like the buttons that play flushing and cheering sounds. For reluctant kids, a feature like this can make all the difference. The pot in this potty is also generously sized, so you never have to worry about overflow. It's also one of the sturdiest potties I tested. I never have issues with it sliding around, and I think the wide base of the foot rest helps with that. The only real drawback of this toilet is that it can be a bit more difficult to clean than others. There are a few cracks behind the seat, and if pee seeps into those, it can be tricky to get into. Best Value Potty Training Chair Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Type: Potty chair | Special Features: High backrest Pros: Cons: A potty seat doesn't have to be complicated to be effective and this simple seat gets the job done. It's nice and sturdy with a non-slip bottom, and has a large pot that's easy to remove for cleaning. Among all of the potty seats I tested, it's also one of the easiest to clean. It doesn't have as many nooks, crannies and cracks like many of the other options do. I really appreciate the handle on the back, too. My kids often ask for the potty to be moved from room to room, and this makes it easy. I've found that as my kids get older, they prefer this chair even more since it's a bit more spacious than some of the smaller potty seats, and has a high backrest. While many of the smaller options are better for ergonomic positioning, kids can outgrow them rather quickly. Because it is such a simple seat, the biggest con is that there aren't any fun features to motivate kids to sit on the seat. If your child is a bit hesitant, try allowing them to decorate the outside of the potty with stickers featuring their favorite character or animal. This can give them some ownership over the potty and make it a little more exciting. Best Potty Training Seat For Travel Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Type: 2-in-1 (potty chair and toilet insert) | Special Features: Folds for storage Pros: Cons: This potty seat has been in my vehicle for over five years, and it has saved my kids from having accidents while traveling so many times. When you prop up the legs and use a liner bag, it can function as a standalone potty seat. I use this function often when my kids need to go and there isn't a bathroom to stop at. It also comes in handy for kids who are scared of public bathrooms or who might be shy to poop in public. If you do find a bathroom but want to keep your kids off the dirty toilet seat, you can flip the legs outward to use it as a potty insert. When they're done, fold the legs in, and stash it back in your car. While this is a great travel option, it's not perfect. It's not quite as sturdy as other more robust potty seats, though I've never had it collapse or tip over. You'll also need to purchase potty seat liners. I've used plastic grocery bags in a pinch, but the experience is always better using the correct liners. They fit on the seat well, have an absorbent pad in the middle and I've never had them leak. Best Potty Training Ladder Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Type: Ladder | Special Features: Adjustable to toilet height Pros: Cons: The Jool Baby Potty Training Ladder is really sturdy, and it's adjustable so you can easily get a secure fit on your toilet. It has two steps kids can use to climb up onto the toilet seat, which my toddlers really love. Though it doesn't have a fun flushing mechanism or a character theme like some other seats do, the very design makes the regular toilet more kid-friendly. The seat has a lot of great features: it's slightly cushioned, has a splash guard, and includes handles and a slightly raised back to help kids feel comfortable and secure. It's very easy to take on and off, so you're not giving up one of your toilets for your kids. Simply pull the seat off the toilet and fold the top down, then slide it next to the toilet or somewhere else out of the way. My 3-year-olds are able to put it on the toilet themselves, which is really helpful when they need to go and I can't get there to assist right away. Most potty training seats require little (if any) assembly, but this ladder did require some assembly time. The directions were a bit confusing, and once I had it assembled, I also had to adjust it to fit my toilet. Thankfully, this is only a one-time process, but it's something to consider. It's also a bit difficult to clean since there are a lot of small parts and cracks. The cushioned seat also attaches with a hook-and-loop material which is difficult to clean if it gets pee on it. Best Potty Training Seat Insert Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Type: Toilet insert | Special Features: Adjustable, hook for storage Pros: Cons: The BabyBjorn Toilet Training Seat is a simpler alternative to a ladder, yet it still helps toddlers feel more comfortable using the regular toilet. It also has a hook, so you can hang it out of the way when it's not in use. This seat is incredibly sturdy, largely thanks to the adjustable dial. For kids who are scared of going on the regular toilet, this is a major benefit because it won't wobble around or fall off when they're trying to get on or off the toilet. I was able to get a really nice fit on multiple toilets, and this feature makes it a good travel option, too. The seat is very lightweight, and my toddlers have no problem putting it on the toilet themselves. It also has a simple design with a subtle pop of color around the outside, so it won't stand out as an eyesore in your bathroom. The seat has a splash guard in the front, which helps prevent urine from shooting out of the toilet. If they do miss and get pee all over, however, it's not the easiest seat to clean. The adjustable dial has quite a few areas that can be difficult to clean. Fortunately, since they are going right into the regular toilet, there isn't a pot to clean out. Best Multi-Purpose Potty Training Seat Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Type: 3-in-1 (potty seat, toilet insert and step stool) | Special Features: Helps eliminate odors, can function as a step stool Pros: Cons: If the thought of a toilet training seat stinking up your house worries you, the Munchkin Arm & Hammer Multistage 3-In-1 Potty is the right option for you. The seat has an odor-fighting deodorizing disc built into the lid which I've found helps neutralize odors and gives off a light, pleasant scent. The seat itself has proven to be sturdy and comfortable for my toddlers. In addition to helping tame odors, the seat is a multifunctional: kids can use it as a regular potty seat, a toilet insert and a step stool—a real space-saver if your home is already crowded with toys and products like mine is. The pot is easy to remove and clean, and I appreciate that it's nice and deep. This helps prevent it from spilling over when emptying a particularly full pot. The only drawback I've found is that pee sometimes spills out when my kids carry around the step stool while there's still something in it (one of the downfalls of testing 15 potties at once). If you're more vigilant about emptying the potty, however, this probably won't be an issue. Best Potty Training Seat For Reluctant Toddlers Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Type: 2-in-1 (potty chair and toilet insert) | Special Features: Flushing buttons, character themes Pros: Cons: Sometimes, especially with reluctant potty trainers, you just need a potty that's exciting for kids and themed with their favorite character. The First Years Potty Training And Transition Potty could be just the enticement they need. 'Even the 'perfect' potty won't work if your kid refuses to sit on it,' says Lastra. This potty features either Baby Shark, Mickey Mouse, Paw Patrol or Spidey and His Amazing Friends. The seat also has buttons they can push to flush the seat and elicit other fun sounds. Of all of the seats I've tested, this is one that my toddlers continually gravitate towards—for obvious reasons. When your child is ready to transition to the big toilet, you can simply remove the seat and use it as an insert. It's a thoughtful, toddler-friendly feature that helps ease the change—since the seat feels familiar, kids are more comfortable and confident making the move. The seat isn't quite as sturdy and stable as some of our other top picks. It hasn't ever tipped over or slid while my kids were using it, but it may not be the best pick for older or larger toddlers. Best Multi-Stage Potty Training Seat Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Type: 3-in-1 (potty seat, toilet insert and step stool) | Special Features: Can function as a step stool Pros: Cons: This newly released 3-in-1 potty is another option that's ideal for saving space. It transitions from a potty chair to a toilet insert to a step stool in a pretty innovative way: to transition to a step stool, you take the insert out and turn the potty upside down, so you can use the toilet insert and step stool at the same time. Lastra recommends multifunctional seats like this because kids tend to stick with the one they're familiar with. Since the insert can be removed and the potty flipped to become a step stool, it avoids the spilling issues seen with the Munchkin seat. The pot and seat insert are both easy to clean, and the pot is large enough to hold a lot of liquids and solids. The toilet insert also has a splash guard you can flip up, which I find particularly helpful for my boys. Though I haven't had any issues with my kids tipping this seat or having it slide around, it's not quite as sturdy as some other options. The material just seems to be a bit more flimsy. The overall look and feel is also a bit more utilitarian than some other options. My kids don't dislike this potty, but they also don't gravitate towards it like they do with some others. To help your kid get excited to use this potty, you might encourage them to decorate it with stickers. Other Potty Training Seats We Tested I tested a total of 15 potty training seats and chairs with my 3-year-old twins during potty training, and I used some of these seats when potty training my older child as well. BabyBjorn Potty Chair: I've used this potty for all three of my kids, and it's a great option. The only reason it's not a top pick is that it's very similar to the less expensive OXO Tot Potty Chair, which performed nearly identically in our tests. Kolkraft Sesame Street Elmo Hooray 3-In-1 Potty Training Toilet Seat: I didn't have any concerns with this seat when it came to stability, and my toddlers like it. However, the red pot that collects the pee and poop does present a concern. It makes it difficult to see if there is urine in it, and it makes it almost impossible to see the color of the pee or poop. Parents often need to examine the color of their child's pee or poop, especially if there are any health concerns. Summer Infant My Size Potty Pro: Unfortunately, this seat did not perform well during testing. The pot is really small, and somehow, pee constantly leaked from the sides of the seat. Munchkin Sturdy Potty Seat: I've been using this seat for years and it works well. However, it's not adjustable like the BabyBjorn Toilet Training Seat. On some toilets, it may not fit as well and could create an unsteady base for kids to sit on. Frida Baby Fold & Go Potty Seat: This is an ideal option when you want a toilet insert that's super compact. However, when compared to the Kalencom Potette Plus 2-In-1 Travel Potty Trainer Seat, it simply doesn't offer as many features and can only be used on an existing toilet while the Potette Plus can also be used as a standalone potty. Contours Bravo 3 Stage Potty: The Contours Bravo 3 Stage Potty has a unique design that creates a large area for kids to sit on. Its flaw, however, is that the pot gets stuck when you try to pull it out to empty it, and if you're not careful, this can send pee and poop flying, which is obviously not ideal. Fisher-Price Step Up Potty: This step-up potty ladder has a comfortable seat, but the ladder isn't adjustable. I wasn't able to get it to fit my toilet without it wobbling, and many online reviewers mentioned the same issue. Why Trust Forbes Vetted The baby and kids gear team at Forbes Vetted is steeped in experience testing and vetting the best products. We frequently cover potty training topics, including the best potty training books and the best potty training pants. How We Tested The Best Potty Training Seats I tested all 15 of the potty training seats we considered for this list myself with my 3-year-old twin boys. My daughter also used many of these seats when she was a toddler. In addition to using each seat throughout our daily lives, I also conducted more specific tests on each seat. Here's some more insight into how I tested each seat. I noted each time any of the seats wobbled or seemed unstable while my kids were sitting on them. I also attempted to slide them around and tip them over while nobody was sitting on them. Some seats tended to leak pee around the sides or under the pot, so when this happened, I attempted to figure out why and made note of the incident. I also carried each pot across a room and to the toilet to be emptied many times. I noted which ones were easier to transport than others. I made note of how easy each seat was to use for both parents and toddlers. This included information on assembly (if applicable), placing the seat on the toilet and function of features like handles and buttons. I cleaned each seat multiple times and documented any cracks, small parts or areas of the seats that were difficult to clean. When it comes down to it, a good potty seat needs to appeal to toddlers. I observed which seats my kids gravitated towards and which they said were the most comfortable. What To Consider When Buying A Potty Training Seat Lastra explains that parents often struggle with potty training because their kids aren't in a good ergonomic position to go to the bathroom. 'When we adjust the child's position, it's like magic and everything works. When kids have to strain or feel uncomfortable, they're much more likely to resist the potty, which can make the whole training process harder,' she says. Good ergonomic positioning involves a comfortable seat that allows your child's knees to be higher than their hips when their feet are rested on a flat surface. If your potty isn't low enough to the ground for your toddler, try placing something stable under their feet to help get them into the right position. 'After alignment, ease of cleaning is my next must-have,' says Lastra. 'A seat that's simple to wipe down or has a removable bowl saves a lot of hassle.' Look for seats that don't have a lot of seams or areas that are difficult to get into to clean. A toilet insert will require less cleaning overall than a potty chair. Splash guards can help keep pee contained, too, so you're not cleaning up messes as often. This is typically even more important for boys. While not necessary, fun theming can make a toddler more likely to want to use the potty. Look for seats that appeal to them or let them decorate a more plain seat with stickers. Anything that can make kids feel uneasy or scared while going to the bathroom could jeopardize the potty training process. Look for seats that are sturdy and that won't slide or tip while your toddler is sitting on them. What Type Of Seat Is Best For Potty Training? The best type of seat for potty training puts toddlers in an ergonomic position, which helps them poop without straining. Fun features like a theme with their favorite character or flushing handles can help get toddlers excited about using the potty, too. For these reasons, we named the best potty seat The First Years Super Pooper Plus Potty Training System With Foot Rest. Potty Training Seat Vs. Chair The terms potty training seat and potty training chair are often used interchangeably. However, a potty chair is a standalone potty that sits on the floor while a potty seat is an insert that rests on top of the regular toilet. Many potty training chairs can also function as potty training seats.
Fox News
an hour ago
- Fox News
Vegas casino CEO says Sin City may be 'outpricing itself'
Derek Stevens, owner and CEO of casinos and resorts in Las Vegas, tells Fox News Digital how dining habits are evolving as tourism drops in Sin City, with many visitors calling out high food prices in the popular vacation destination.
Forbes
an hour ago
- Forbes
The 26 Best Trips For 2026, According To Travel Experts
Iceland—home to the "coolcation" and one of the best places to travel in 2026. getty What are the best places to travel in 2026? When the world's top luxury travel advisors gather in one place, the conversations often foreshadow where travelers will be heading next. That's definitely the case at ILTM North America, held each fall at Baha Mar in the Bahamas. Now in its 13th year, the luxury travel conference has become a barometer for what's trending and where the future is headed. 'International hoteliers are coming from around the globe—Tasmania, Queenstown, Japan, the Philippines—to one little beach resort in the Bahamas to sit together for four days and have conversations about how we can make travel the very best experience for the most demanding, discerning clients there are,' Simon Mayle, ILTM's director, told me in an interview. With the event aimed at the U.S. outbound market—the market that drives global trends, according to Mayle—it's no surprise that ILTM is where new hotel openings, cultural shifts and once-in-a-lifetime journeys come into focus. Ahead of the conference, which will take place in October, I caught up with Mayle and three other notable travel advisors to see what places they have on their radars for 2026—and beyond. From Brazil's growing safari scene to the shores of Albania, their picks reveal not just where to go, but how travel itself is evolving. Simon Mayle, director of ILTM and a leading voice when it comes to where travel is headed next. Courtesy of ILTM According to Mayle, today's travelers are looking for more than five-star service—they want meaning. He points to two themes shaping what's next: a renewed interest in slow transport and an appetite for destinations that combine nature, culture and family connection. 'We're all living these crazy digital lives where we're busier than ever,' he says. 'So travel is about reconnecting with nature, with family, with yourself.' That's why Mayle sees growth in experiences like luxury rail journeys, private yachts and lodges that immerse travelers in local landscapes and traditions. Here are the places on his radar right now. El Nido Resorts in the Philippines, one of the best places to travel in 2026. Courtesy of ILTM Palawan, Philippines The Philippines is high on Mayle's bucket list—'one of the few places I've not been,' he says. 'Every connection I have with the culture is super interesting—that wonderful blend between Catholicism meets drag meets everything. And then there's the incredibly blue water and thousands of islands. There's a lot to explore.' In Palawan, Mayle is particularly excited about El Nido Resorts, a collection of eco-minded sanctuaries on islands across the country. Pantanal And Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Brazil hasn't traditionally been seen as safari territory, but that's starting to change. In the Pantanal, ambitious conservation projects are turning the region into a new wildlife frontier. 'The leopard population is growing,' Mayle says. 'One was just found in Rio for the first time in 50 years.' For travelers who want to combine iconic city culture with a conservation experience, Brazil now offers both. Sumba, Indonesia Far less developed than nearby Bali, Sumba offers a striking blend of natural beauty and authentic culture. 'It looks like one of the most authentic places you could possibly go with the indigenous community still very much alive and kicking and living their true lives,' says Mayle. Add in wild horses running along the beach at sunset and untouched coastlines, and Sumba feels like Southeast Asia before mass tourism. Dunia Baru, a handcrafted phinisi yacht that sails through some of Indonesia's most remote waters. Lawrence/Courtesy of ILTM Sailing in Indonesia Want to see more of Indonesia? Dunia Baru, a handcrafted phinisi yacht, sails through some of Indonesia's most remote waters, from Komodo to Raja Ampat. With 14 suites, it can be booked by the cabin or as a full charter. 'What a great luxurious experience to be on a boat like this with a group of friends,' says Mayle. 'It couldn't feel more remote, more exciting, more adventurous than anything else out there. And there's the fact you can get to all these destinations on the boat and don't have the pain of flying, connecting, unpacking and repacking.' Queenstown, New Zealand Mayle says that New Zealand is having a moment. 'Pre-pandemic, New Zealand was off the charts and then had a very quiet time. Now it seems to be having a massive renaissance,' he says. In Queenstown, Mayle says the new Roki Collection is elevating the destination to a new level. 'There's nothing that stands out in Queenstown in terms of true luxury, and this will change that,' he says. With a design that emphasizes astronomy, nature and architecture, the property brings sophistication to one of the world's most dramatic landscapes. Palm Beach, Florida Known for its manicured Worth Avenue shopping, Gilded Age estates, and storied social scene, Palm Beach has long been a winter playground for America's elite. 'It's got that old-school Floridian charm that intrigues a Brit—an American glamour that captures our interest in the same way that Downton Abbey might capture the interest of an American,' says Mayle. Now, a quietly cool new wave of hotels is adding fresh appeal. Mayle points to the Vineta Hotel, a 41-room reimagined historic property from the Oetker Collection, as the kind of boutique opening redefining the area. 'It's a beautiful little property that's a hundred years old,' he says. Aerial view of a beach in Ksamil, Albania—one of the best places to travel in 2026. getty Albania Right on the Adriatic, Albania is stepping into the spotlight as Europe's new summer hot spot. 'It's the next obvious place where you blend beautiful beaches with great people and family-style cooking,' says Mayle. Beaches like Ksamil (known as the Maldives of Europe), historic towns such as Berat and a welcoming culture are part of the draw—along with prices that remain modest compared to nearby Mediterranean hotspots like Croatia and Greece. Puglia, Italy Mayle recently spent a week road-tripping through Puglia, calling the experience 'perfect.' He was struck by the baroque architecture, walkable historic cities and the warmth of the southern Italians. 'I love the southern Italians. They're so full of personality,' he says. Lecce left the biggest impression. 'Wow—the architecture, the city at night, it's really walkable. It's really beautiful. You're constantly being surprised by something.' The Bahamas Out Islands Closer to home, the Caribbean continues to evolve. Mayle highlights an upcoming project in the Out Islands from The Ocean Club, a Four Seasons Resort. 'It's exciting to see the Out Islands getting more attention,' he says. Georgia Schley Ritchie of The Travel Counsel. Courtesy of Georgia Schley Ritchie The Expert: Georgia Schley Ritchie - The Travel Counsel For Georgia Schley Ritchie, a former attorney who founded an Atlanta-based agency, The Travel Counsel, luxury travel is all about matching clients with experiences that feel both extraordinary and personal. Her host agency—Global Travel Collection—is one of the largest luxury travel networks in the world. Ritchie told me in an interview that her team handles 'absolutely everything,' but their specialties include safaris, Japan and Europe. Right now, she sees two clear shifts: the rise of 'coolcations' (cooler destinations for summer travel) and renewed attention to underexplored corners of classic spots. 'We definitely see people steering more to countries like Iceland, Norway and Scotland,' she says. She also encourages travelers to go during shoulder season: April, May, September. 'You can get away from the crowds—and escape the heat.' Here are the places she's most excited about. Sicily, Italy Sicily may have had its 'White Lotus' moment, but Ritchie says the island is far from overexposed. 'People have been to a lot of other places in Italy, but not always Sicily,' she notes. With ancient ruins, dramatic coastlines and an emerging food-and-wine scene, Sicily offers more variety than many people realize. She's a fan of Villa Igiea, a Rocco Forte property in Palermo set in a restored palazzo, as one of the island's standouts. 'It's a renovated palace, just fabulous,' she says. And while most travelers still gravitate toward Taormina and the east coast, Ritchie believes the west will see more interest as luxury options expand. An aerial view of sand dunes and sea in Namibia—one of the best places to travel in 2026. getty Namibia For safari lovers who have already ticked off Botswana or Tanzania, Namibia offers a fresh perspective. 'It may not be a first-time safari destination, but I would say for the next one, go to Namibia. It's very cool,' she says, pointing to the sheer diversity of experiences compared to other safari destinations. Think desert-adapted elephants and lions, surreal dunes of the Namib Desert and stark, cinematic landscapes. Rwanda Demand for gorilla trekking shows no signs of slowing, and Ritchie says Rwanda is leading the way and a definite 'hot spot' for the kind of once-in-a-lifetime experiences people are prioritizing now. Zimbabwe Ritchie recently visited Zimbabwe with her daughter and business partner and came away impressed. 'We finished at Lake Kariba at a six-star property called Fothergill Island, and it was amazing,' she says. Combined with Victoria Falls—one of the natural wonders of the world—Zimbabwe is reemerging as a premier safari destination. 'It went off the radar for a while, but it's back,' she says. Georgia Schley Ritchie of The Travel Counsel in Bhutan Courtesy of Georgia Schley Ritchie Bhutan Earlier this year, Ritchie led a client trip to Bhutan, and it left a lasting mark. 'That should be on everybody's bucket list. It's not overtouristed because they took care of that when they decided they were going to open the country to tourism. It's very interesting, amazing food, a beautiful country. The people are amazing,' she says. Her top place to stay is &Beyond Punakha River Lodge, which she describes as 'to die for.' Iceland And The Nordics Cooler climates are increasingly appealing to her clients, with destinations like Iceland, Norway and Scotland becoming summer favorites for travelers looking to escape the heat. Ritchie recently sailed with Ponant in Iceland. 'It was everything you'd want in a luxury small cruise line,' she says. 'It was amazing service, incredible food. It was French and had a really interesting clientele. It's a small ship, and it never felt crowded. The service was impeccable.' Explora Journeys She also praises Explora Journeys, a newer small ship cruise line she compares to 'a Four Seasons on the water,' thanks to its elegant design, standout art and diverse dining options. 'We love Explora and everybody that we've put on it has loved it, too.' A view of Madrid: one of the best places to travel in 2026. getty Madrid, Spain As a self-professed palace hotel junkie, Ritchie is especially excited about the reimagining of Santo Mauro, a historic palace transformed by designer Lorenzo Castillo. 'Anything that he touches is absolutely splendid,' she says. Madrid itself is also gaining ground as more travelers look beyond Barcelona. With world-class museums, tree-lined boulevards and an evolving dining scene, it offers the perfect mix of history and modernity. Utah Closer to home, Ritchie is watching the rise of Black Desert Resort in Utah. Set among the red rocks near Zion National Park, the sprawling project combines championship golf with luxury residences, a wellness-focused spa and outdoor adventure. 'It's the kind of place that can redefine what a U.S. desert vacation looks like,' she says. With national parks nearby and a design that blends seamlessly with the landscape, Black Desert offers travelers an American alternative to long-haul adventure travel. The Expert: David Rappel David Rappel. Courtesy of David Rappel For more than three decades, Miami-based advisor David Rappel has specialized in high-touch, highly customized itineraries for an elite global clientele. He says his style is hands-on: 'My phone is never off,' Rappel told me in an interview. And he describes himself as more of a concierge-style travel advisor. 'I'm very involved, down to the smallest touches that make a client's stay exactly what they want.' Rappel is affiliated with Global Travel Collection, a division of Internova, and his clients—from tech entrepreneurs to C-suite executives to famous celebs—expect not just five-star service but seamless logistics, private access and even security considerations. And the sky is the limit: He even orchestrated a private 'Amazing Race'-style scavenger hunt across Hong Kong for one client. 'I have discovered all is possible for a price,' he says. Closing down the Sistine Chapel for a client? No problem. The only wish he couldn't grant was closing the Sydney Bridge for a private dinner, which one client wanted. Rappel says that ILTM North America is where he reconnects with trusted partners and discovers the newest properties that will define what's next in travel. 'I hear about new trends at the show, and I am looking forward to hearing about new opportunities for my clients,' he says. Here are the destinations and hotels on his radar. Abacos, The Bahamas 'This is an easy-to-get-to destination from the USA. These islands are a perfect escape, less than an hour by flight from Florida,' he says. While Nassau is the gateway, Rappel urges travelers to explore the Out Islands, where the beaches are quieter and the atmosphere more exclusive. 'The Out Islands are worth the visit.' One of the most anticipated openings is Montage Cay in the Abacos, a private-island resort that will bring Montage's brand of understated luxury to the Out Islands. Rappel also notes that the one-to-one peg between the Bahamian and U.S. dollars makes it an easy choice for American travelers. The iconic Waldorf Astoria in New York is being reinvented—and is one of the best places to travel in 2026. getty New York City 'What can't be said about this city, from the museums to Broadway. As always there is something new, in this case it's two hotels,' says Rappel. The first is the newly reopened Waldorf Astoria New York. 'The Grande Dame is back,' he says, noting that it's 'the glamour of the Gilded Age meets modern expectations.' The hotel has returned with just 375 rooms and suites—down from more than 1,400 pre-renovation. The smaller scale means more space, light and attention to detail. 'The next highly anticipated hotel opening is a true favorite of mine from Miami Beach: the Faena New York.' Expect a bold design, cool art programming and just 120 rooms and suites. London London continues to be a favorite for his business and leisure clients, and Rappel is watching two new arrivals closely. The first is The Chancery Rosewood, a transformation of the former U.S. Embassy on Grosvenor Square into a 'hospitality wonderland.' The second: Six Senses London, the Asian wellness-focused brand's entry into the U.K. market. Located in Bayswater, it will feature a three-floor spa and a massive indoor pool. 'Highlights include 3,500 square feet dedicated to fitness and a 65-foot indoor swimming pool,' says Rappel. The coastline of the Papagayo Peninsula in Costa Rica—one of the best places to travel in 2026. getty Costa Rica In Costa Rica, Rappel is excited about Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve within the protected Papagayo Peninsula. With just 36 villas and 14 estate homes, the property will emphasize sustainability and cultural immersion alongside Ritz-Carlton's signature service. 'It's the kind of place that forces even established neighbors like Four Seasons to step up their game,' he says. The Expert: Jason C. Miller - Accomplished Jason C. Miller, founder of Accomplished, on La Dolce Vita Orient Express. Courtesy of Jason C. Miller Jason C. Miller didn't start his career in travel—he spent a decade in pharmaceuticals before founding Accomplished in 2006. But his pivot wasn't just professional; it was personal. 'I decided to turn my love of travel into a career…one focused on meaningful connections, top-notch service and truly memorable experiences around the world,' he told me in an interview. Today, Miller leads a global team that designs trips for travelers who expect style, depth and insider access every step of the way. Miller says he is most excited about how luxury city hotels are evolving and 'bringing wellness, heritage and cutting-edge design into urban environments,' he says. 'Travelers want to be in the heart of the action without giving up the chance to recharge, and 2026 will be a big year for city stays that feel as restorative as a resort.' He's also seeing an evolution with established luxury brands that are leading the way in a new kind of travel—'one that mixes culture, design, wellness and personal touches to create trips people remember just as much for how they felt as for where they went.' For Miller, ILTM North America is a chance to stay ahead of the curve. 'ILTM North America is one of the most inspiring events in the travel industry. It has that perfect mix of being intimate but still super impactful…bringing together top hotels and destinations from around the globe with the best North American travel advisors,' he says. 'I always walk away with fresh ideas, new connections and a better sense of where luxury travel is headed.' Here's what's on his radar for 2026. New York City Echoing fellow advisor David Rappel, Miller has his eye on two major Manhattan openings that promise to reshape the city's luxury landscape: Waldorf Astoria New York ('a true icon is making a comeback—blending its rich history with a fresh take on luxury,' he says) and Faena New York ('Faena's signature blend of art, culture, and hospitality will bring fresh energy to New York City's luxury scene'). An illustration of the London's new Chancery Rosewood. Courtesy of Chancery Rosewood The Chancery Rosewood, London Miller also agrees with Rappel when it comes to London's Chancery Rosewood. 'A historic landmark (former U.S. Embassy) turned modern masterpiece, offering Rosewood's signature residential style in one of London's most prestigious locations,' he says. Six Senses' European Capitals: London, Rome, Milan Wellness in the heart of the city—that's what excites Miller about Six Senses' expansion into Europe's capitals, including new locations in London, Rome and Milan. 'Six Senses always delivers the wellness experience they're known for—this time in major cities,' he says. Mandarin Oriental, Vienna Vienna is having a moment, and Mandarin Oriental, Vienna is cementing it with this transformation of a 19th-century courthouse. 'This one should be the perfect mix of Viennese heritage and contemporary sophistication, destined to be a new hot spot in Vienna,' says Miller. Orient Express's La Dolce Vita. Courtesy of Orient Express Orient Express: Trains, Hotels And Yachts Orient Express is weaving a network of experiences that span land and sea. La Dolce Vita , its new luxury train, will revive the golden age of rail across Italy. Hotels in Rome and Venice will carry that aesthetic into hospitality. 'Orient Express is redefining glamorous, multi-modal luxury travel with the launch of La Dolce Vita train and their two new luxury hotels in Rome and Venice,' Miller says. And the upcoming Orient Express yachts will bring luxury onto the water. Branded Yachts: Ritz-Carlton And Four Seasons Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons are also bringing five-star service to the seas. 'I think the luxury branded yachts are going to change the cruise scene, especially a younger demographic and those that don't usually cruise—more of a luxury hotel on the water,' says Miller. MORE FROM FORBES: Forbes The Star Of 'Crazy Rich Asians' Shares His Best Travel Tips And His Latest Project—A Travel Rewards Credit Card By Laura Begley Bloom Forbes How This Hospitality Visionary Is Rewriting The Rules Of Luxury Travel By Laura Begley Bloom Forbes The 20 Best Cities To Live In The World, According To A 2025 Report By Laura Begley Bloom
