Zero To Travel Podcast 7 Must-Visit Destinations for 2026 (Get There Before the Crowds Arrive!) with Lyn Hughes
Jan 6, 2026
Join Lyn Hughes, the founding editor of Wanderlust Magazine and a travel journalism veteran, as she curates the top travel destinations for 2026. Discover remote wilderness routes, hidden cultural hubs, and wildlife-rich regions that demand your attention. Lyn shares her insights on balancing adventure and sustainability, personal anecdotes from her travels, and discusses how tourism can play a crucial role in conservation efforts. This chat is filled with inspiration for your next meaningful journey!
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Galápagos Plus Mainland Ecuador
- The Galápagos remains uniquely biodiverse and worth repeated visits because each island offers distinct wildlife and ecosystems.
- Lyn Hughes urges visitors to pair Galápagos trips with mainland Ecuador to experience cloud forests, volcanoes, Amazonia, and local culture.
Choose Land-Based Stays To Save
- If budget is a constraint, choose a land-based Galápagos stay and join boat excursions rather than an expensive liveaboard cruise.
- Consider waiting for discounted cruise spots if you have flexible time and want a cheaper option.
Drive The Kimberley Before It Changes
- The Gibb River Road in the Kimberley offers an authentic, off-grid 660 km wilderness driving experience that may change if sealed or developed.
- Visiting now preserves the rugged road-trip feel and access to remote cattle stations, gorges, and wildlife.