I’m a Travel Expert: 5 Destinations Wealthy Retirees Are Booking for Summer 2026
Written by
Nicole Spector
Edited by
Jenna Klaverweiden
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Summer travel planning is in the air, and while most Americans are barely getting by amid rising inflation (often forced to cut back on sheer essentials like groceries), many wealthy retirees are taking full advantage of their wealth by planning lavish trips abroad.
GOBankingRates consulted travel experts to find out where wealthy retirees are heading this summer.
Also see five bucket-list trips that are affordable for retirees.
1. The Mediterranean Coast by Boat
Many retirees of (significant) means are forgoing airports and setting sail, with the Mediterranean Sea being a top destination.
“I think a big part of the appeal is that the Mediterranean gives wealthy retirees a very comfortable way to do a ‘dream trip’ without it feeling hard,” said Bobby Laurie, travel expert and travel analyst at The Jet Set. “Everything is fairly close by, and they can get there without being exhausted or much effort.”
2. Costa Smeralda, Sardinia
While exploring the Mediterranean at large, wealthy retirees are making sure to check out Costa Smeralda, Sardinia, with its crystal turquoise waters and exclusive marinas.
“For luxury travelers, the accommodation here is mostly hotels, delivering the privacy, attentive service and sea views this client expects,” said Brian Alex, director of operations at Italy With Bella. “It’s a world away from the tourist saturation of the Amalfi Coast, and for older travelers, the pace is entirely their own.”
3. Japan
Wealthy retirees are also flocking to Japan, according to Patrick Hill, head of Paramount Cruises.
“Demand is seriously strong here,” Hill said. “It is the balance of culture, calm and exceptional service that draws people in. The key is keeping itineraries well paced, with private guides and seamless transport so it feels enriching without being too full on.”
4. The Caribbean
Known for its gorgeous beaches and warm weather, the Caribbean has long been a hot vacation spot for the wealthy, and it’s as trendy a tourist destination as ever in 2026, with visitors taking a particularly pricey approach.
“There’s less interest in large resorts and more demand for private villas and smaller, yacht-style cruising,” Hill said. “It is all about space, flexibility and avoiding anything that feels too commercial.”
5. Kenya and Tanzania
Wealthy retirees are also hitting up Kenya and Tanzania, specifically to experience adventurous safaris, which are notoriously expensive and tend to be longer excursions.
“Safari is a luxury for anyone, but having the time to fully immerse is difficult before retirement,” said Michelle Souza, travel advisor at Fora. “I am seeing more extended journeys, combining multiple countries or a bush and beach approach. For example, I sent a client in her 70s on a 3.5 week solo trip to Kenya and Tanzania. Before retirement, that is not a realistic trip length.”
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