Travelzoo Best Bets: Where to Go in 2026 with Susan Catto

Send us Fan Mail Ready for a clear eyed look at how to travel smarter in 2026? Dan and Travelzoo’s Senior Editor and co-host Gabe Saglie close our 10-part Best Bets series with Susan Catto, Head of Publishing and Production at Travelzoo Canada, for a forward looking conversation on the future of travel deals and the trends shaping how we book. This episode connects the dots between destinations, member behavior, and the offers that truly deliver value. We explore how Canadians and Americans are traveling differently this year, from longer international journeys and train powered domestic escapes to the revival of the great American road trip with Route 66’s 100th anniversary and heritage travel tied to USA 250. We uncover where value is hiding in plain sight. Mexico’s all inclusive scene is shifting from more to better. Saudi Arabia is emerging with remarkable UNESCO sites and a new wave of hospitality. Albania is gaining ground as a Mediterranean alternative without the crowds or price tag. Closer to home, winter in Muskoka, Vancouver Island, and Nova Scotia proves that off season can offer some of the richest experiences of the year. In Asia, Singapore stands out as a seamless gateway, while Japan, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand continue to attract repeat visitors, often through flexible air inclusive packages that make it easy to extend your stay. If you want real savings and better experiences, timing is everything. We break down shoulder season advantages, last minute booking behavior, the rise of workcations, and why travelers are reallocating budgets toward meaningful upgrades like better seats and curated experiences. Most importantly, we talk about trust. Human vetted offers, verified stay reviews, and community driven recommendations are redefining what a great travel deal actually looks like. This is your roadmap to navigating travel trends and finding smarter value in 2026. Thanks for joining us for this series! Don’t forget to become a member at travelzoo.com to access exclusive offers. Register for just a dollar for the first month! The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/