As the calendar turns and a new year begins, there's no better time to plan your next great escape, especially one that involves exceptional cocktails, vibrant bar culture, and a deeper appreciation for the craft of mixology around the world.
Whether you are a seasoned bartender seeking inspiration or an enthusiast planning your next spirited getaway, 2026 is full of opportunities to explore new places through the lens of what is being poured, shaken, and stirred.
1. New Orleans, Louisiana — Where Classic Cocktails Are Born
New Orleans remains one of the most iconic cocktail cities in the world. The birthplace of the Sazerac, the Ramos Gin Fizz, and the Vieux Carré is the perfect destination for anyone who appreciates history with their highball.
Explore:
The French Quarter’s legendary bars like Carousel Bar and Napoleon House
Modern cocktail lounges redefining Southern hospitality
The Museum of the American Cocktail for an educational experience
Travel Tip: Visit during the spring before the summer heat peaks, and pair your trip with a live jazz night and a whiskey tasting flight.
2. Oaxaca, Mexico — For the Agave Spirit Adventurer
If tequila and mezcal are your passion, Oaxaca is a must. This region is the soul of artisanal mezcal production, offering immersive distillery tours, agave tastings, and incredible regional cuisine to match.
Explore:
Palenques where mezcal is still made by hand
The Mezcaloteca, a curated tasting room experience
Local markets filled with citrus, herbs, and spices to inspire new pairings
Travel Tip: Book a guided mezcal tour to better understand production methods, terroir, and ancestral traditions.
3. Cape Town, South Africa — A Hidden Gem for Wine and Spirits
Cape Town is rising fast as a global destination for wine, gin, and cocktail creativity. It offers a breathtaking mix of natural beauty and sophisticated drinking culture.
Explore:
Innovative cocktail bars using local botanicals and infusions
The Cape Winelands, only an hour away from the city
Rooftop bars with panoramic views of Table Mountain
Travel Tip: South Africa’s summer runs from December through March — making it ideal for a January or February getaway.
4. Tokyo, Japan — Precision, Perfection, and Philosophy
Tokyo’s cocktail scene is unlike anywhere else. Deeply rooted in technique and hospitality, bartending here is a form of artistry. From elegant hotel bars to tiny hidden gems, every drink feels like a ceremony.
Explore:
Ginza’s legendary high-end bars for flawless classics
Experimental cocktail dens in Shibuya and Shinjuku
Local Japanese whiskies, rare shochus, and yuzu-infused creations
Travel Tip: Respect the formality. In Tokyo, the way you enjoy a drink matters just as much as what is in the glass.
5. New York City, New York — The Center of the Cocktail World
You cannot go wrong starting your year in New York. With new bar openings every month, rotating seasonal menus, and some of the most talented bartenders in the industry, NYC continues to be a global trendsetter.
Explore:
Speakeasies and hidden cocktail lounges
Tasting menus and elevated bar programs in Michelin-star restaurants
Industry events, pop-ups, and mixology workshops throughout the city
Travel Tip: January is an ideal time for smaller crowds and new winter cocktail menus at many top venues.
Raise a Glass to the Year Ahead
Traveling for cocktails is about more than just what is in the glass. It is about discovering new flavors, cultures, and communities that deepen your understanding of mixology. Whether you stay local or cross oceans this year, take the time to savor something new.
Planning a cocktail-inspired journey in 2026?
Expand your knowledge before you go. Explore expert certifications at UMixology.com, or join The Empire Society for access to exclusive travel tips, global bar guides, and mixology tools.
