Custom tour operator Audley Travel  has expanded its global offering for 2026 to include the Southeast Asian islands of The Philippines for US travelers. Also new for clients next year and beyond is a scenic self-drive through Sardinia, a luxurious new Spanish train route traveling from iconic cities Seville to Madrid, plus an expansion of the United Arab Emirates region to include Dubai and Abu Dhabi as destinations beyond a stop-over, plus culture, tribal traditions and art in Gujarat, India. 

 An introduction of The Philippines (on sale in December)

A new addition in 2026 is The Philippines (available for the US market for the first time since 2020). The Southeast Asian archipelago is best known for its pristine beaches, however moving inland there are many other places to visit. Audley specialists recommend a highlights of the Philippines sample itinerary to help curate a trip to explore the islands to the full.

This includes exploring the bustling capital city, Manila, a trip to Banaue (home to magnificent rice terraces, excellent trekking and five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as well as visiting the preserved heritage town of Taal. Clients also have the opportunity to spot the endangered tarsier on the Visayan island of Bohol and enjoy world-class snorkeling and diving in the clear waters around El Nido.

Additional new excursions for next year and beyond include the Baguio Mountain Man Dining Experience and Sunrise at Chocolate Hills project on the island of Bohol & Panglao.

A 16-day custom Highlights of the Philippines tour, including three nights in Manila and three nights in El Nido, costs from $6,380 per person (based on two sharing) and includes domestic flights, private transfers, accommodations, and privately guided excursions. 855 435 1768 / www.audleytravel.com/us/the-philippines   

United Arab Emirates expansion

Previously sold as a stop-over destination, Audley has expanded its offering in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to offer the Emirates as destinations in their own right. Sample luxury and family focused itineraries from Audley's specialists include an in-depth UAE tour (showcasing both city and desert properties, and a hidden side to the Emirates), short breaks in the Emirates and dual centre Dubai and Abu Dhabi trips. Audley has also expanded its offering for clients looking for budget-friendly stopovers. 

Audley's new sample family itinerary blends cultural immersion with engaging experiences in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.  The seven-day itinerary starts with three nights at JA Ocean View Hotel in Dubai, including a privately guided walking tour through the city. Led by a local expert, the tour visits the Shindagha Museum, Perfume House, and Old Dubai's lively souks, with an abra ride across the Creek and tastings of traditional Emirati cuisine. In Abu Dhabi, families explore the fascinating art museum Louvre Abu Dhabi, the presidential palace of Qaṣr Al-Waṭan, and one of the largest mosques in the world, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque – all with a private guide.

Audley's seven-day custom Dubai and Abu Dhabi Family Break Getaway costs from $2,795 per person (based on two adults and two children) and includes transfers, excursions and accommodations. 855 435 1768 / www.audleytravel.com/us/uae

Sardinia scenic self-drive

For 2026, the choice for clients has expanded with Audley's Italy specialists recommending a self-drive trip exploring Sardinia, seeking out unique mountainscapes and ocean views as part of the journey.

In the south of the island, for those looking for more bustle and history still close to the water, Cagliari, nestled within the heart of the historic city makes a superb beach and marina base. Sunset at Capo Carbonara Marine Sanctuary is a must for dolphin sightings, and Catina Olianas wine tasting of local varieties will appeal to the gastronomers. Meanwhile in central Sardinia, clients can experience a traditional lunch with Sardinian Shepherds for the opportunity to truly connect with the food and culture whilst learning about local traditions and breaking bread with the people who live and love the area.

In the north of the island, the historic town of Alghero has the closest feel to mainland Italy when it comes to architecture. For clients looking to experience the outdoors, hiking the Limbara Mountains is recommended. This is an easy to moderate hike which will have clients exploring the mountain trails and valleys where they can potentially see wildlife like boars, foxes, eagles, deer, mouflon, and wildcats (amongst many others).

A 10-day custom self-drive trip to Sardinia costs from $9,375 per person (based on two sharing) and includes vehicle hire, accommodations and privately guided excursions. 855 435 1768/ www.audleytravel.com/us/italy

Seville to Madrid via Luxury Train

Clients of Audley can now explore the highlights of Southern and Central Spain via the old school glamour of train travel. The Al Andalus Train, which is now part of Audley's tailormade offering, has launched a new route for 2026 visiting cities such as Seville, Cordoba, Cadiz, Merida and Toledo.

As part of this opulent hotel on rails experience, Audley clients can expect to stay in deluxe suites, enjoy Spanish gastronomy both onboard and via local restaurants as part of the journey, immersive excursions, as well as expert guides throughout.

An 11-day tailor-made trip to Spain including six nights on the Al Andalus Train costs from $14,330 per person (based on two sharing) and also includes private transfers, four nights in hotels, some food and beverages, and excursions. 855 435 1768 / www.audleytravel.com/us/spain

Gujarat – culture, tribal traditions and art

Gujarat on the western coast of India is raw and authentic and 2026 sees the expansion of Audley's program in the state from a focus on wildlife (popular with clients keen to visit the sole home of pure Asiatic lions in the world), to a destination ideal for delving into India's incredible culture and tribal traditions and art.

Highlights include visiting Bhuj, the epicenter of all things related to textiles where clients can experience weaving, block printing, tie-dye and antique textiles. 

In Ahmedabad, the heritage walk is an Audley recommendation to unveil the city to clients, comprising of numerous pols (self-contained neighborhoods) protected by secret passageways. To experience the glory of this city Audley suggests a walk through an old quarter, observing its architecture, art, religious places, culture and tradition. 

These new cultural, tribal and art-based experiences can be paired with wildlife to complete an itinerary in Gujarat. The Little Rann of Kutch offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of the tribal communities, and also a cross-desert safari experience, looking for wild ass, nilgai, blackbuck, chinkara, Indian wolf, and desert foxes. Clients can also enjoy exceptional birdwatching, especially flamingos with visits between November and January offer the best chance of a sighting.

Velavedar National Park is home to a massive population of blackbuck, the handsome Indian antelope, plus fox, jackal, jungle cat and wild pig, whereas Sasan Gir National Park is the only place in India where it is possible to view lions in the wild. 

A 13-day tailor-made trip to Gujarat costs from $7,990 per person (based on two sharing) and features three nights in Ahmedabad, two nights at Little Rann of Kutch, two nights at Velavedar National Park, two nights at Sasan Gir and three nights at Bhu. The price includes transfers, accommodations and excursions. 855 435 1768/ www.audleytravel.com/us/india

Coming soon...

Audley will also be further refining its hotel and excursion offering in stop-over destination Qatar (currently available as a stop-over destination) as part of a wider product development program in its Middle East destinations. This will include adding local, immersive sightseeing experiences together with launching a selection of new hotels in different locations, ideal for both stopover visits and longer, dedicated winter beach stays.

ENDS