My Epic 2026 Travel Plans Exploring the Wonders of Greece, Japan, Germany and Egypt
- Brad Kaplan
- Nov 29
- 4 min read
Travel is more than a hobby for me; it’s a way to live the history I teach and to experience the cultures I’ve studied for years. In 2026, I am embarking on a journey that fulfills my lifelong travel dreams. This year is my big travel year, a chance to visit some of the most fascinating places in the world—places I have taught about as a world history teacher. From ancient ruins to modern cities, from serene rivers to bustling ports, my itinerary is packed with unforgettable experiences.
Here’s a detailed look at my travel plans for 2026, including the destinations, tours, and cruises that will bring history and culture to life.
March in Greece: Exploring Ancient Wonders by Land and Sea
My year of travel kicks off in March with a 14-day tour of Greece, organized by Globus. This trip combines time on land with a cruise at sea, allowing me to explore the country’s rich history and stunning landscapes from multiple perspectives.
Highlights of the Greece Tour
Athens: Walking through the Acropolis and the Parthenon, I will immerse myself in the birthplace of democracy and Western civilization.
Delphi: Visiting the ancient oracle site, a place that shaped decisions in the classical world.
Santorini and Mykonos: Cruising the Aegean Sea, I will enjoy breathtaking views of whitewashed buildings and crystal-clear waters.
Crete: Exploring the Minoan civilization’s ruins, including the Palace of Knossos.
This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Traveling with Globus means I can focus on soaking in the experience while experts handle the logistics.
In April, I will switch gears and head to the Netherlands for a 10-day river cruise with Avalon Waterways. This trip promises a peaceful yet enriching way to explore Dutch culture and history.
What to Expect on the River Cruise
Amsterdam: Starting in the vibrant capital, I’ll explore canals, museums, and historic neighborhoods.
Canals of Captivating Amsterdam
Keukenhof Gardens: Visiting during tulip season, the gardens will be a colorful highlight.
Windmills and Countryside: Cruising through the Dutch countryside, I will see iconic windmills and charming villages.
Cultural Stops: The cruise includes stops in cities like Utrecht and Rotterdam, each with unique architecture and history.
The river cruise format allows me to relax while seeing multiple destinations without the hassle of packing and unpacking.
Summer in Texas: A Home Base for Rest and Exploration
May, June, and July will be spent in Texas. This period is a chance to rest, catch up with family and friends, and explore local sites. Texas offers a rich history and diverse culture, from the Alamo in San Antonio to the vibrant arts scene in Austin.
August in Asia: Celebrity Cruise to Japan and Korea
August brings a 12-day cruise with Celebrity Cruises through Japan and Korea. This trip combines modern cities with ancient traditions, offering a thorough analysis into East Asian culture.
Cruise Highlights
Tokyo: Exploring Japan’s capital, from historic temples to cutting-edge technology.
Kyoto: Visiting traditional shrines, gardens, and experiencing tea ceremonies.
Busan and Seoul: In Korea, I will explore bustling markets, palaces, and coastal scenery.
Cultural Experiences: The cruise includes opportunities to try local cuisine and attend cultural performances.
This cruise offers a unique way to experience two countries with rich histories and vibrant cultures in one trip.
September in Germany and Poland: Independent Travel Through History
September will be dedicated to an independent trip through Germany and Poland. Traveling without a tour group allows me to explore at my own pace and dive deeper into places that interest me most.
Planned Destinations
Berlin: exploring the city’s complex history, from the Brandenburg Gate to remnants of the Berlin Wall.
Munich: enjoying Bavarian culture and visiting historic sites like Nymphenburg Palace.
Krakow, in Poland, I will visit the medieval old town and the nearby Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial.
Warsaw: discovering the resilience of Poland’s capital through its museums and rebuilt historic center.
This trip will be a personal journey through some of Europe’s most significant historical sites.
December in Egypt: Experiencing the Wonders of the Ancient World
To close out the year, I will travel to Egypt in December to witness the marvels of ancient civilization firsthand.
Key Experiences in Egypt
The Pyramids of Giza: Standing before the Great Pyramid and the Sphinx.
Luxor: Touring the Valley of the Kings and the Karnak Temple complex.
Nile River Cruise: Sailing the Nile to see temples and tombs along the way.
Cairo Museums: Exploring artifacts that tell the story of Egypt’s long history.
Egypt offers a chance to connect with some of the oldest stories in human history, a fitting end to a year filled with exploration.
Planning Ahead and Making Travel Dreams Reality
I am often asked how I manage to travel so extensively. The answer is simple: I plan ahead and look for great deals. Booking early allows me to secure spots on popular tours and cruises at reasonable prices. I also combine group tours with independent travel to balance convenience and freedom.
Traveling to these destinations is not just about ticking places off a list. It’s about living the history I teach, experiencing cultures firsthand, and sharing those experiences with others. This year will be a testament to the value of planning, passion, and persistence.
Travel offers a unique way to understand the world and its history. My 2026 itinerary reflects a commitment to exploring diverse cultures and historical sites, from the Mediterranean to East Asia, Europe, and North Africa. Whether on a guided tour, a river cruise, or an independent adventure, I look forward to the stories, sights, and memories this year will bring.
If you are inspired to plan your own big travel year, start by choosing destinations that excite you and booking early. The world has so much to offer, and with the right preparation, you can experience it all.
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