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Halloween: Top 20 Haunted Places to Visit in France

October 28, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

Every October 31, for Halloween, it’s the same refrain: a parade of the most “beautiful” costumes, a candy hunt, a horror film, and for the bravest, an adrenaline shot in a place nicknamed “haunted.” An habit that did not escape the national vacation rental search engine Likibu, which, for the occasion, unveiled its list of the most haunted locations in France.

To do this, the site analyzed data collected from October 19 to 24, 2023. The estimated number of queries corresponds to searches conducted monthly on Google by Internet users.

Which haunted places are the most searched in France?

Catacombs of Paris (Île-de-France), with 157,830 searches
Padirac Abyss (Lot), with 150,410 searches
Brocéliande Forest (Ille-et-Vilaine), with 75,850 searches
Lake Paladru (Isère), with 54,350 searches
Fougeret Castle (Vienne), with 34,860 searches
Carnac Menhirs (Morbihan), with 34,030 searches
Commarque Castle (Dordogne), with 21,520 searches
Trepassers’ Bay (Finistère), with 18,110 searches
Rennes-le-Château (Aude), with 17,840 searches
Brissac Castle (Maine-et-Loire), with 16,830 searches
Bonaguil Castle (), with 13,260 searches
Tiffauges Castle (Vendée), with 12,190 searches
Plessis-Bourré Castle (Maine-et-Loire), with 12,060 searches
Montségur Castle (Ariège), with 10,900 searches
Combourg Castle (Combourg), with 10,410 searches
Veauce Castle (Veauce), with 7,980 searches
Reignac Iron Fortress (Tursac), with 6,690 searches
Puymartin Castle (Marquay), with 6,640 searches
Gisors Castle (Gisors), with 5,130 searches
Carrouges Castle (Carrouges), with 4,820 searches

Haunted castles, favorite places for Halloween

With 75,850 monthly searches, the historical Broceliande Forest reappears in the spotlight. Inspire for many films or fairy tales, it invites walkers to trace the steps of the fairies Viviane or Morgan, or to head toward Comper Castle, and perhaps, to pull Excalibur from its stone.

But what stands out most from this ranking is the French enthusiasm for haunted castles. Among the most favored castles, Fougeret Castle (34,860 monthly searches) is extolled as the “hauntedest place in France” and cherished by all paranormal and supernatural enthusiasts.

With 21,520 monthly searches, Commarque Castle also stirs curiosity among the French. Legend has it that it is inhabited by the ghost of the horse belonging to the lover of the daughter of the Count of Commarque (are you following?). During the Hundred Years’ War, the lord supposedly laid a trap for the beloved of his daughter, who died within the castle walls, sealing the fate of the horse’s phantom, which has appeared there since, on every full moon.

Another castle, another tale: with Brissac Castle (16,830 monthly searches), nicknamed the “giant of the Loire Valley.” Those who visit the site venture into the lair of the Green Lady, Charlotte of Valois, her true name, who was killed by her husband in 1477 after the discovery of her infidelity. Since then, she is said to haunt the castle’s walls day and night…

IFTM Top Resa 2026: A Vibrant Recap Highlighting Sensory Experiences and Tailor-Made Solutions

October 28, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

PONANT

Three days to reconnect, exchange, and build

In September, DTravel announced its presence at IFTM Top Resa with a promise: to show that a destination is never merely a brochure. Promise kept! Over three days, the team reconnected with loyal clients, cemented long-standing partnerships, and launched new exchanges with agencies, tour operators, and event organizers seeking tangible ideas for their upcoming programs in Portugal.

Beyond the business meetings, the agency aimed to offer visitors a genuine Portuguese interlude right in the heart of Hall 1.

A sensory immersion: awakening travel memories

To transport our visitors even before departure, we focused on what lies at the very core of our tourism philosophy: the awakening of the senses. Seated comfortably around our iconic Tram (or Eléctrico in Portuguese), a Lisbonian symbol that has become the gathering point of our booth, our partners could experience a warm olfactory and gustatory journey.

Because the desire to travel often begins with a forgotten scent or a comforting flavor, we organized several tasting sessions. The enchanting aroma of a perfect espresso, the croquant sweetness of a still-warm Pastel de Nata, the richness of a wine from our terroirs… These authentic touches instantly revived memories of past trips and sparked a desire to discover even more.

This experience directly reflects the philosophy that DTravel brings to its programs on a daily basis. Whether for cultural groups, corporate committees, or premium individual stays (FIT), we place experiential tourism at the center.

The mystery of Stand W071 unveiled: The success of our “Plinko” game!

Many of you were curious about the surprise we had announced before the show. The veil has finally been lifted on our DTravel version of the “Plinko” animation!

Designed as a playful, friendly, and unifying activity, this game punctuated our three days with a convivial and enthusiastic atmosphere. By sliding their token across our interactive board, visitors could try their luck to win items typically associated with Portugal and interact with others in good humor. This game perfectly illustrated the spirit of DTravel: impeccably professional rigor combined with a humane, accessible, and warm approach.

Heading toward 2027: experience at the heart of the programs

The exchanges at IFTM confirmed a clear trend: Portugal continues to attract huge interest, but professionals are looking for more than ever transparency, responsiveness, and genuinely customized proposals.

It is also why, for 2027, DTravel strengthens experiential tourism at the core of its programs, creating moments that bring each visitor closer to the culture, flavors, and traditions of every region.

To make the heart of each itinerary beat, we inject exceptional moments such as

• Interactive workshops: Introductory sessions to azulejo painting, traditional cooking classes with local chefs, and artisanal pottery making in Central Portugal.

• Exclusive tastings: Private visits to family-owned quintas with wine-and-food pairings, wine-assembly workshops, olive oil tastings, or convent liqueurs guided by passionate producers.

Experiences that suit both a school trip focused on active learning and a VIP incentive in search of exclusivity. Because what we touch, what we taste, and what we feel is often what stays etched in memory long after the journey ends.

From the Algarve to the Centre’s cultural routes, from the energy of Lisbon and Porto to Madeira and the Azores’ preserved nature, not to mention the MICE & Corporate segment which continues to grow, the French-speaking DTravel team is already at work turning the meetings and contacts formed in Paris into concrete, balanced, and tailor-made programs.

A huge thank you

To all our clients, partners, and friends who came to greet us at Stand W071, a sincere thank you for making these three days in Paris so precious.

Each encounter, every exchange, and every moment of sharing contributed to making this edition of IFTM Top Resa particularly memorable for DTravel.

The conversation has only just begun. We now approach the 2027 season with new ideas, new projects, and the same passion for creating, together, unforgettable experiences in Portugal.

Christmas Markets 2026: The World’s Top 10 Destinations

October 25, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

Lights, regional specialties and wooden chalets make Christmas markets essential winter gatherings. But do some destinations truly stand out for a festive getaway? A study conducted by Christmas Tree World compared 28 markets worldwide across eight criteria, including their online popularity, the number of stalls and December hotel prices. While Germany takes the top spot, France, the United Kingdom and the United States also feature among the most popular destinations.

From Nuremberg to Strasbourg, European Christmas markets dominate the rankings

It is in Nuremberg, Germany, that the top Christmas market on this list is located. The Christkindlesmarkt earns a score of 8.2 out of 10, after nearly four centuries of existence. Its around 180 stalls uphold an artisanal tradition, offering Christmas decorations, candles, toys and regional specialties. Among the must-sees are Lebkuchen, the city’s iconic gingerbread, and Zwetschgenmännle, small decorative figurines made from dried plums. The market is scheduled from November 27 to December 24, 2026.

The Striezelmarkt in Dresden (also in Germany), third with 7.5 out of 10, boasts an even longer history, dating back to 1434. Its roughly 240 stalls highlight Stollen, a traditional fruitcake dusted with icing sugar closely tied to the city. Visitors can also discover artisanal objects and traditional decorations. The 2026 edition is planned from November 25 to December 24.

The United Kingdom places three markets in the top 10. Manchester ranks second with 7.64 out of 10. Its main strength is the scale of festivities spread across several areas of the city center. In 2025, the municipality counted 274 stalls across ten sites, with gastronomic chalets, gift sellers and a 50-meter Ferris wheel. The market, organized since 1998, is slated to run from November 6 to December 22, 2026.

In Edinburgh, tied for fifth with Chicago, the festivities take over the East Princes Street Gardens, at the foot of the castle and the monuments of the Scottish capital. Visitors will find food stalls, gifts and seasonal attractions. The event is scheduled from November 14, 2026 to January 3, 2027.

Birmingham sits in eighth place. Its Frankfurt Christmas Market is described as the largest authentic German Christmas market outside Germany and Austria. German specialties, hot beverages, artisanal goods and concerts contribute to its atmosphere. It is planned from November 5 to December 24.

France is represented by Strasbourg, seventh with a score of 6.81 out of 10. Created in 1570, the Christkindelsmärik is one of Europe’s historic Christmas markets. The city spreads its stalls across several central squares, featuring Alsatian specialties, bredele cookies, mulled wine and artisanal decorations. At Place Kléber, the grand Christmas tree is one of the symbols of Strasbourg’s festivities. The launch of the 2026 edition is announced for November 27.

Finally, Vienna, Austria, ranks ninth. Its Vienna Christmas World combines a traditional market, an ice rink and attractions within a monumental setting. The festivities are planned from November 13 to December 24.

From New York to Chicago, American markets bet on spectacle

In the United States, Bryant Park’s Winter Village in New York ranks fourth with 7.41 out of 10. More than 180 vendors offer handmade goods, gifts and festive treats amid the winter installations. The site is also notable for its outdoor skating rink, letting visitors enjoy the Christmas atmosphere in the heart of Manhattan. The edition is set to begin on October 28, 2026. The winter season will extend beyond the holidays, with activities announced through February 28, 2027.

Also in New York, the Union Square Holiday Market takes tenth place. Here, the focus is on creations by local artists and artisans. Jewelry, decorative objects and gift ideas make up the offerings of the stalls set in the city center. The market is scheduled from November 12 to December 24, 2026.

In Chicago, the Christkindlmarket ties for fifth place with Edinburgh. For its 30th edition, it will operate across three sites, at Daley Plaza, Wrigleyville and Aurora. Its identity rests on German traditions, with culinary specialties, handmade toys and Christmas decorations. The markets in Chicago and Aurora are announced from November 20 to December 24, while the Wrigleyville market is to stay open until December 31.

To establish its ranking, Christmas Tree World studied 28 markets, taking into account eight factors, including Google searches, Instagram posts, TikTok videos, the age of events, the number of stalls, entrance fees and proximity to public transport. Each criterion was converted into a score, then integrated into a global score out of 10. This ranking thus measures several aspects of popularity and accessibility of the markets, without constituting a definitive judgment on their touristic quality.

Travelers’ Concerns Evolve: Health, Cancellations, and Assistance Top the List

October 23, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

CroisiEurope

The behavior of French travelers has profoundly changed in recent years. Repeated flight delays and cancellations during peak periods, extreme weather events that disrupt certain stays, geopolitical tensions and an increased sensitivity to health issues have made safety and flexibility genuine booking criteria.

This evolution directly challenges tourism professionals.

Key takeaways:

● Travelers place increasing importance on health, cancellation policies, and assistance before booking a stay.

● Unforeseen events related to transport, geopolitical situations, weather events or medical issues reinforce this demand for security.

● Tourism professionals are tasked with better informing their clients about available protection solutions.

Health remains the primary concern before a trip

The medical costs abroad can reach tens of thousands of euros depending on the destination, especially in the United States or Southeast Asia. Travelers are also increasingly aware that a single incident—a appendicitis, a bad fall while hiking, or several days in hospital after food poisoning—can quickly upset a trip’s budget. This financial reality has heightened attention to health considerations before departure.

Access to care and cost of consultations

In many destinations, access to care is neither immediate nor free for a foreign national. A simple consultation can cost several hundred euros outside the European Union, and hospitalization can quickly become a major expense. The European Health Insurance Card offers partial coverage in member countries, but it does not apply outside the European area.

Facing these realities, travelers ask more about protections available before leaving. Comparing various travel insurance options, such as those offered by AXA Travel Insurance, helps identify guarantees suited to the destination, the type of stay, and the traveler’s profile, depending on the chosen coverage.

Medical assistance and repatriation

The medical repatriation represents one of the highest cost items in case of a serious accident abroad. Depending on the type of trip and the destination, arranging it may require a medically equipped aircraft and international coordination.

Longer stays, itinerant travel, and the growth of outdoor activities also contribute to increasing attention to this coverage.

Travelers are increasingly aware that national social protection does not cover these situations. On-site medical assistance, available 24/7, has thus become a criterion of choice for a growing share of travelers, especially for trips outside the Schengen area or family journeys.

Cancellations and transport disruptions worry travelers more

In Europe, Regulation CE 261/2004 obliges airlines to compensate passengers for significant delays or flight cancellations caused by them, but these obligations do not cover every possible scenario.

Trip cancellations and financial consequences

A trip cancellation rarely results in a full refund without strings attached. Cancellation fees vary by providers, timing, and general sale conditions. For a stay worth several thousand euros, the financial loss can be significant. Travelers are increasingly proactive at booking, checking cancellation terms offered by agencies and tour operators.

Delays, strikes and weather events

Disruptions linked to crew strikes, or airspace closures are not always subject to compensation obligations by carriers.

These so-called “extraordinary” events are often excluded from European regulatory frameworks. Travelers must then cover extra costs themselves: hotel nights, meals, a new ticket. This reality fuels a growing demand for flexibility and additional guarantees, depending on the type of trip involved.

Assistance has become a real reassurance criterion

Recent studies on traveler behavior show that assistance and handling of unforeseen events occupy an increasingly important place in the criteria for selecting travel protection. Beyond financial compensation, travelers primarily seek quick and easily accessible support when an incident occurs abroad.

It means being able to readily contact a human interlocutor, able to provide advice and help reorganize the trip in case of disruption, or to coordinate on-site procedures. This rising emphasis on service is reshaping how offers are evaluated, whether for business travel or leisure stays, depending on the traveler’s profile.

Beyond price, a more holistic approach to traveler protection

FAQ on travelers’ protection expectations

What are today the main concerns of travelers before departure?

Travelers cite health, cancellations, and transport disruptions as the main worries. These concerns vary by destination, trip type, and traveler profile. The availability of responsive assistance has also become an important decision factor, especially for long-haul stays.

Do carriers cover all contingencies in case of disruption?

No. The European Regulation CE 261/2004 imposes compensation obligations on airlines for delays or cancellations caused by them, but it excludes extraordinary circumstances such as external strikes, extreme weather conditions, or airspace closures. In those cases, additional expenses remain the passenger’s responsibility, unless extra guarantees are purchased.

Is a bank card enough to cover travel contingencies?

High-end bank cards sometimes include assistance or cancellation protections, but their limits, waiting periods, and exclusions vary by bank and card type. They do not automatically cover all risks, notably high medical costs outside Europe or medical repatriation. It is advisable to check the exact terms before traveling.

How are travel agencies adapting to new protection expectations?

Tourism professionals are progressively incorporating a protection advisory into their sales process. This involves better information on formalities, greater transparency about included guarantees, and personalized support before and during the trip. The digitization of assistance services also facilitates real-time management of unforeseen events.

Categories World News Tags Assistance, Cancellations, Concerns, Evolve, Health, List, Top, Travelers

IFTM Top Resa 2026: Launch of the Literary Stops

October 6, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

Designed as a meeting place for encounters, signings, and exchanges, the Escales Littéraires stand will offer more than 800 titles, with a rich program paced by pitch sessions and presentations of works on its integrated stage area.

For this inaugural edition, the bookstore will highlight two major author profiles: tourism industry professionals who take to the pen, and the leading authors from the Hachette Tourisme editions.

The tourism industry authors

Well-known figures in the sector, they share their worlds through novels, thrillers, fictions or technical works (listed in alphabetical order):

Jean da Luz – Journalist and founder of TourMaG.com, author of thrillers including “Mortelle Machination”, “L’Affaire Marvin Brown”, “Opération Leningrad” and “Code Cortex” (forthcoming).

Fabrice Dariot – Former head of the BDV Group and of Air Journal, author of three crime novels including “Pierre de Stone” (Otago Editions).

Alain Decker – Photographer, globe-trotter and writer is the recipient of the Grand Prix des Enquêteurs for his novel “Jours de ténèbres” (Robert Laffont Editions).

Geoffrey Duval – After more than 25 years in the tourism sector, including several years as president of the US Tourism Office in France, he picked up the pen. Also an actor, he nourishes his writing with encounters and human stories. He signs his first novel: “Le voleur de rêves”.

Philippe Mugnier – Destination marketing consultant and tourism professor, this Savoyard author develops works inspired by his native region. After several historical works, he publishes his first novel, “FERT – Les Veilleurs du col”, a queer Da Vinci Code of the Alpine pastures.

Josette Sicsic – Specialized journalist, she follows tourism news and provides sociological and forward-looking insights into the development of international tourism. She is the author of several technical works and travel guides. “Voyages. C’était mieux avant ? : Des années soixante aux années Covid”, is her latest opus, co-authored with Pierre Josse (former editor-in-chief of Guide du Routard).

The Hachette Tourisme Authors (with Le Routard)

The voices and creators who shape guides, travel narratives, and new ways of exploring the world:

Chantille de Lincourt — A heritage-loving author (Des villages pas comme les autres, Des châteaux pas comme les autres). Villages & Patrimoine.

Annabelle Schachmes — Food journalist and author for the Food Lovers Travel collection. Instagram

Benjamin Martinie — Creator of the Hourrail media platform!, author of “Voyager avec Hourrail”, dedicated to low-carbon travel. Instagram

Antoine de Suremain — Filmmaker and adventurer, author of “Antoine explore la France”. Instagram

Anthony Felber — Professional trail runner and architect, author of “Les 800 plus hauts refuges des Alpes”.

A Cultural Gathering at the Heart of the Travel Industry

By bringing these signatories together within the IFTM pavilion, Escales Littéraires provides an exceptional showcase for literary creation tied to wandering, heritage, and human adventure.

In addition to autograph sessions, pitch presentations of the showcased books will punctuate the three days of the show, enabling the professional audience to discover the behind‑the‑scenes of these works and to engage directly with their authors.

Escales Littéraires Stand (S085)

Practical Information

IFTM Top Resa is the premier professional trade show uniting all players in tourism and travel (business, leisure, groups, events).

Website: : www.iftm.fr

Dates : From Tuesday, September 15 to Thursday, September 17, 2026

Location: Paris Porte de Versailles — Escales Littéraires Stand (S085)

Contact for Press & Organization :

IFTM / Press Office: IFTM Press Service (Sophie Nathan – [email protected])

Librarian in charge: Jean da Luz-Figueiredo – [email protected]

DTravel Returns to IFTM Top Resa: Portugal Heads Back to Paris

September 27, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

Climats du Monde

A destination is never merely a brochure

For Dtravel DMC, taking part in IFTM Top Resa is not about simply presenting standardized circuits or pre-printed brochures. The inbound agency is reinventing its role by focusing above all on active listening, exemplary responsiveness, and genuine tailor-made engineering. From the sun-kissed softness of the Algarve to the wild, volcanic landscapes of the Azores, through the preserved charm of Madeira or the cultural vitality of Lisbon and Porto, DTravel masters the diversity of Portuguese territories in their most authentic form.

This intimate knowledge of the terrain also extends to cultural Spain, enabling the agency to design fluid cross-border combinations and original thematic itineraries. Whether focused on architectural heritage, Iberian gastronomy, wine, or nature, DTravel champions high-value experiences. The agency favors private openings of historic monuments, workshops with passionate artisans, exclusive access, and a carefully curated selection of intimate, charming accommodations.

Whether meeting the requirements of high-end FIT stays, exceptional journeys, or regionally themed itineraries for groups, the agency tunes every detail with the precision of a master craftsman. The objective is clear: to go beyond mere logistical service and offer a memorable immersion. As the management team notes: “Knowing the Iberian Peninsula well does not merely mean knowing where to take a traveler, but understanding which facet of the destination will resonate best with their expectations and emotions.” It is this artisanal and personalized approach to travel that DTravel brings to share this year with all tourism professionals in Paris.

Five Audiences. One Obsession: Creating Meaning.

A high-end FIT does not necessarily seek the same emotion as a cultural group.

A student does not discover a destination with the same eyes as a seasoned traveler.

And a management committee does not expect an incentive to resemble a simple organized trip.

That is why DTravel develops its expertise across several worlds: FIT, groups, culture, students and MICE.

Different worlds, but one same demand: to understand what the journey should provoke.

For school and university groups, for instance, Portugal and Spain become true learning grounds.

Why simply observe when you can experience?

Hikes, historical visits, urban rallies, pottery workshops, traditional crafts, or local cuisine: DTravel favors an active pedagogy designed to engage young travelers rather than leave them as spectators.

The objective is to find the right balance between discovery, cohesion, autonomy and safety, while respecting the budgetary and organizational constraints of the institutions.

For school and university groups, DTravel rejects contemplative tourism. The agency favors a lively educational approach. To captivate young travelers, the agency emphasizes direct experimentation and immersion in favor of concrete and varied on-site activities. The programs include hiking, historical visits, and interactive urban rallies.

Students also participate in crafts workshops, traditional pottery, or local cooking, fostering direct contact with locals. This dynamic teaching method guarantees an ideal balance between cultural discovery, teamwork, and enhanced safety, all structured to rigorously adapt to the budgetary constraints of educational institutions.

MICE & Corporate: Tailor-made Solutions

The Meetings & Incentives by DTravel division offers comprehensive know-how to meet the needs of corporations and event agencies. Green seminars focused on rejuvenation, VIP-stimulation stays, product launches, or large-scale conventions: DTravel designs turnkey, creative, and impeccably executed setups.

The agency selects exceptional venues, from charming private accommodations to bold contemporary spaces, while orchestrating original team-building activities (treasure hunts in vintage vehicles, coastal regattas, private dinners in historic monuments). With a dedicated 100% French-speaking team and on-the-ground operational presence, DTravel ensures smooth logistics and absolute peace of mind, from the initial sketch to participants’ departure.

The Mystery of Stand W071: A Surprise to Discover On-site

This year, DTravel DMC is paying particular attention to visitors who push open the door of its space at Hall 1. To mark this 2026 edition, the team is planning a secret exclusive surprise for all professionals who will stop by its stand. A hint? It is an extension of what the agency achieves on a daily basis: creating an authentic link with the destination and waking up curiosity.

Top Vacation Destinations to Watch in 2027

September 25, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

L'été 2026 confirme l’évolution des habitudes de voyage des Français - Depositphotos.com, janoka82

Climats du Monde

The economic context continues to weigh on travellers’ choices.

According to data observed by Petit Futé, travel agencies registered 8% fewer bookings in July and August, while the average basket rose slightly to 2,098 euros (+1.2%).

Nevertheless, the French do not give up on traveling: after a 30% drop in reservations between March and May, those made between June and August rose by 56%. For the season overall, reservations show a 6% increase.

The short-haul segment also grows by 8%, while France holds firm with a decline limited to 0.8%.

“23°C rather than 39°C”: coolness becomes a criterion of choice

Beyond the budget, the question of temperatures could permanently reshape the geography of summer holidays.

The traditional sun-soaked getaway no longer necessarily means seeking the highest temperatures. Brittany and Normandy record a 10% growth in the market data cited by Petit Futé.

Searches on petitfute.com notably rise by 11% in Finistère, 5.2% in Côtes-d’Armor, 4.5% in Calvados and 4% in Manche.

This pursuit of coolness also crosses borders. The Asturias, Cantabria, Galicia and the Basque Country emerge as alternatives to the more southern Spanish destinations, combining coast, mountains and milder temperatures.

Further north, Norway, Scotland and Ireland also benefit from this trend, sometimes referred to as a “coolcation.”

The mountains also take center stage in summer

Another shift noted by Petit Futé: the mountains confirm their appeal during the summer period. 30% of French people took a mountain holiday between spring and autumn.

This dynamic is reflected in petitfute.com’s audiences, with notable increases of 11% in Ardèche and 3.4% in Savoie.

Nature, outdoor activities and more moderate temperatures contribute to making the mountains an alternative to coastal destinations that are highly exposed to extreme heat. For Petit Futé, this trend could now become a lasting part of summer habits.

Albania and Montenegro among the destinations to watch

Abroad, Albania and Montenegro show a 10% increase in bookings in 2026. Two destinations that could continue to gain ground in 2027.

In Montenegro, Petit Futé particularly bets on Kotor and Perast, but also on the combination of Adriatic coastline and mountainous landscapes.

In Albania, the enthusiasm for Ksamil could give way to a new phase of discovery of the country. Himarë, Berat, Theth or Valbona could thus benefit from a shift of demand toward less frequented territories.

This search for alternatives does not necessarily mean travelers are abandoning major destinations. Another logic seems to be emerging: continue traveling in well-known countries, but favoring their less-touristed regions.

Which destinations for 2027?

Based on the trends observed this summer, Petit Futé identifies several territories likely to gain in attractiveness next year. Scandinavia could especially benefit from the search for coolness, while Poland aims to go beyond the image of a simple city-break thanks to its Baltic coast, its lake region and mountainous ranges.

The same dynamic is seen in Northern Spain, where Asturias, Cantabria, Galicia and the Basque Country bring together several of the expectations observed in 2026: nature, ocean, gastronomy and milder temperatures.

Romania, with Transylvania and the Danube Delta, as well as Slovenia, with its lakes and the Julian Alps, are also among destinations to watch.

In France, Brittany, Normandy and the Cotentin, but also the Jura and the Vercors, could continue to benefit from this shift in travelers’ behaviors.

E-commerce: Booking.com Breaks Into the Top Spots as Travel Gains Ground

September 24, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

E-commerce : Booking.com monte sur le podium, les plateformes de voyage progressent - Depositphotos.com Auteur bigtunaonline

Climats du Monde

Travel confirms its weight in the e-commerce habits of the French. In the second quarter of 2026, a period marked by the summer vacation preparations, several platforms in the sector recorded high audience levels in the ranking published by FEVAD and Médiamétrie//NetRatings.

In total, 53 million internet users, or 90.4 % of the French population aged 11 and above, consulted monthly at least one of the Top 20 e-commerce sites or apps. The overall ranking audience rose slightly compared to the first quarter, with 380,000 additional monthly unique visitors.

In this landscape, the major names of travel-related e-commerce are present.

Fevad: Where Do Booking, Airbnb & Co Stand?

The main progression concerns Booking.com. The booking platform gains one position and climbs to the 3rd rank in the standings, behind Amazon and Leboncoin.

It records 22.47 million average monthly unique visitors, i.e. 38.3% coverage of the French population, and 2.44 million daily unique visitors.

Booking.com now moves ahead of Temu, which occupied the third spot in the previous quarter.

Another travel player present in the ranking: Airbnb. The platform sits in 13th place, with 14.59 million monthly unique visitors, or a 24.9% coverage of the French population.

Airbnb also counts nearly 1.98 million daily unique visitors. The platform gains one place in the ranking.

Rail transportation is not left out. SNCF Connect ranks 15th in the Top 20, with 13.09 million average monthly unique visitors.

The platform represents a coverage of 22.3% of the French population and brings together 1.55 million daily unique visitors.

Finally, Veepee closes the Top 20 with 8.53 million monthly unique visitors and 1.59 million daily unique visitors.

If the platform is not exclusively travel-focused, travel is nonetheless an integral part of its offering.

Audience e-commerce · France

Top 20 E-commerce Sites – Q2 2026

Average monthly unique visitors, coverage and daily visitors. Source: FEVAD / Médiamétrie//NetRatings.

All players – top 20

53 031

90,4 %

Rank
Site

Average monthly unique visitors (000)
Coverage in France (%)
Daily unique visitors (000)

Amazon*

41 184

70,2 %

10 488

Leboncoin.fr*

32 095

54,7 %

8 285

▲ 1

Booking.comtourisme

22 470

38,3 %

2 439

▼ 1

Temu

21 307

36,3 %

5 377

▲ 1

Vinted*

20 071

34,2 %

6 327

▼ 1

E.Leclerc*

19 985

34,1 %

3 051

▲ 1

Lidl*

18 669

31,8 %

2 644

▼ 1

Carrefour*

18 588

31,7 %

2 512

▲ 3

SHEIN

15 477

26,4 %

3 653

▼ 1

Cdiscount*

15 389

26,2 %

1 343

▼

AliExpress

15 126

25,8 %

2 745

▲ 1

Leroy Merlin*

14 858

25,3 %

1 282

▲ 1

Airbnbtourisme

14 590

24,9 %

1 983

▼ 3

Fnac*

13 988

23,8 %

995

SNCF Connect*tourisme

13 094

22,3 %

1 546

Decathlon

12 884

22,0 %

972

▲ 2

Intermarché*

9 953

17,0 %

1 280

▼ 1

Auchan

9 936

16,9 %

1 042

NEW

ManoMano*

9 038

15,4 %

605

Veepee*

8 529

14,5 %

1 593

*Sites affiliated with the FEVAD. Médiamétrie and Médiamétrie//NetRatings – Global Internet Audience – Category created specifically for Fevad – Average Q2 2026 – France – Base: 11 years and older – Copyright Médiamétrie//NetRatings – All rights reserved.

Top 50 Travel Destinations Worldwide for 2027 According to Lonely Planet

September 24, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

Lonely Planet has just unveiled its Best in Travel 2027 selection, comprising fifty destinations and experiences chosen from around the globe. “We don’t merely endorse a single travel genre. It’s first and foremost about finding the experience that matches current travel desires (…) This list is above all a showcase of experiences that are accessible and doable, perfect for a weekend,” explains Nitya Chambers, editor-in-chief of the guide, to CNN on Tuesday, September 22.

In North America, the guide highlights Quebec, the redwood forests along the California coast, Maryland, Prince Edward Island, and New Mexico. It also offers some more original experiences, such as a visit to Rose Island Lighthouse, a flight over Alaska, a getaway to the vineyards of Valle de Guadalupe in Mexico, a stay in South Beach in Miami, or a discovery of Minnesota’s wide-open spaces.

Historical Heritage, Unconventional Experiences, and Nature…

Next, Europe takes the spotlight, with Veneto (Venice, the Dolomites…), the German city of Dessau, the Swedish Riviera around Skanör-Falsterbo, Croatia with Šibenik, and Spain with León among the current favorites. Lonely Planet also suggests following the famous Napoleon Route in France, sailing between the Aeolian Islands off Sicily, walking the Saint Cuthbert’s Way to Lindisfarne, exploring Greece’s underwater landscapes, or admiring Killary Fjord in Ireland.

In the Caribbean, Central America, and South America, the selection includes Montserrat, the Bariloche lake region in Argentina, the colonial city of Granada in Nicaragua, as well as Bocas del Toro in Panama. Among the suggested experiences are an expedition cruise to the Galápagos, a tango introduction in Buenos Aires, a swim in the icy waters of Antarctica, or a stroll through Monteverde’s Cloud Forest in Costa Rica.

In Africa and the Middle East, the spotlight shines on Oman, the Moroccan capital Rabat, as well as Kenya’s Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks. Museums in Abu Dhabi are recommended, as is a safari at Gombe in Tanzania, made famous by Jane Goodall’s chimpanzee research, or a journey to the São Tomé and Príncipe archipelago.

Okinawa, Chengdu, and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway…

Then comes Oceania, featuring Dunedin and the Waitaki region in New Zealand, Tweed in Australia, and New Caledonia, not to mention artistic experiences in Australia’s Red Centre, an immersion into the Samoan Fa’a Samoa culture, or nautical adventures in French Polynesia.

Finally, Asia completes this selection with Okinawa in Japan, Chengdu in China, Gujarat in India, Da Nang in Vietnam, and Fulidhoo Island in the Maldives. Travelers can opt for a boat excursion to orangutan territories in Malaysia, a ride aboard the legendary Darjeeling Himalayan Railway in India, a hike along the Michinoku Coastal Trail in Japan, a culinary journey in Taiwan, or a look at Astana’s distinctive architecture in Kazakhstan. Ideas for years to come!

Guadeloupe: How CTIG Trains Its Top Salespeople to Become True Experts

September 1, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

Avec ses paysages spectaculaires, la pointe des Châteaux accueille chaque année près de 500 000 visiteurs - Photo : LG

Costa Rica

For five days, twenty travel agents explored four of Guadeloupe’s six inhabited islands.

Organized by the Comité du Tourisme des Îles de Guadeloupe (CTIG), with the support of Air Caraïbes and the Des Hôtels et Des Îles group, this educational tour had a clear objective: to show that the destination is not limited to its beaches, but that it blends nature, culture, gastronomy, and a hotel offering capable of meeting all types of travelers.

But this study trip is only the final step in a much more ambitious scheme.

Named “Secrets des Îles de Guadeloupe,” the CTIG certification program rests on four phases: an e-learning course, a seminar or webinar, a commercial challenge, and an on‑site experiential edutour.

The aim is to raise the distributors’ skills so that they become true destination specialists.

The twenty participants are among Guadeloupe’s best sellers at the end of the 2025 commercial challenge, which generated more than €563,000 in revenue for the destination.

Barely landed in Pointe-à-Pitre (Grande-Terre) after a direct flight provided by Air Caraïbes, the participants headed to Deshaies (Basse-Terre).

For five days, they traversed Grande-Terre, Basse-Terre, Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Bas, which make up the Saintes archipelago. In other words, four of Guadeloupe’s six inhabited islands, a feat hailed at the end of the stay by Patrick Galin, the promotion officer for the Îles de Guadeloupe.

« You have experienced four islands out of six. You have visited an island I have only been to three times in my life. That is Terre-de-Bas. »

A reminder that this edutour does not follow the most conventional itineraries.

Hotels for every traveler profile

La plage de l'hôtel La Toubana, seul cinq étoiles de la Guadeloupe - Photo : LG

One of the trip’s objectives was naturally to discover the accommodations that agencies will later propose to their clients.

The first night therefore took place at the Langley Resort Fort Royal, in Deshaies (Basse-Terre).

Nestled between a broad blonde-sand beach and the tropical forest, this four‑star resort makes an excellent base for exploring the north of Basse-Terre. The bungalows scattered across the gardens, direct beach access, and tranquil atmosphere immediately appeal.

Deshaies hides another surprise. Fans of the series Death in Paradise will instantly recognize the scenes from this British fiction shot here since 2011, portraying the fictional “Isle of Sainte-Marie.”

The police station, the seafront, the Creole lanes, Catherine’s bar, and several beaches feature among the iconic spots visitors can discover on a stroll.

On the second day, a change of scene with a three-night stay at La Créole Beach (Des hôtels & des Îles) in Gosier, Grande‑Terre.

More lively, with several restaurants, a spa, and a spacious pool, the property caters to both families and couples who want to stay close to Grande‑Terre’s main attractions.

The group also visited La Toubana (Des hôtels & des Îles) in Sainte-Anne, Grande‑Terre, the destination’s only five‑star property. Overlooking the Caribbean Sea, it positions itself in the premium segment with its bungalows, suites, private beach, and spa.

In Les Saintes, Bois Joli hotel in Terre‑de‑Haut completes this discovery thanks to its privileged location opposite one of the world’s most beautiful bays.

A destination you experience as much as you visit it

Un des grands moments du séjour : la découverte de la mangrove en pagayant - Photo : LG

Very quickly, hotel visits gave way to experiences. At the Jardin botanique de Deshaies, the agents plunged into lush tropical vegetation before taking the Route de la Traversée.

In the heart of Guadeloupe National Park, a forest hike allowed them to measure the richness of this preserved nature. Swimming at the Écrevisses Falls (Basse-Terre) stands out as one of the trip’s highlights.

Another memorable discovery: a kayaking excursion in the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin (Grande-Terre). Gliding quietly among the mangroves, participants explored the mangrove from a different angle and became aware of its essential role in maintaining the balance of this ecosystem.

The ACTe Memorial, in Pointe‑à‑Pitre (Grande‑Terre) provided a historical and commemorative dimension to the journey by recounting the history of slavery and the peoples of the Caribbean.

Bokit, coconut sorbet, and agricole rhum

Arrêt indispensable pour déguster un sorbet coco fait maison - Photo : LG

The best memories do not always come from scheduled visits.

In Sainte-Anne (Grande‑Terre), the group settled at a food truck to sample a bokit. Born from African, European and Caribbean influences, this generously stuffed fried bread has become one of Guadeloupe’s emblematic street foods.

The day before, a stop at the Mamelles roundabout (Basse‑Terre) had allowed tasting Lucie’s famous homemade coconut sorbet, a true local institution.

It would be impossible to mention Guadeloupe without talking about rum. In Sainte‑Rose (Basse‑Terre), a visit to the Reimonenq distillery reminds how sugarcane cultivation shaped the archipelago’s history and economy. The participants discovered the various stages of making agricole rum, from cane harvest to tasting.

Another way to sell Guadeloupe

Published by Laurent Guéna Journalist – TourMaG.com
See all articles by Laurent Guéna

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