Success in summer 2026: Safe niche destinations such as Świnoujście on the Polish Baltic coast
Who will benefit from the turmoil of war around the world in 2026? Probably "safe" destinations: Poland, Gambia or even Guinea Bissau ...
Gambia's beautiful Paradise Beach in Sanyang, where on some days only a few playful cows enjoy the magnificent Atlantic beach
The ITB Berlin 2026 concluded as a landmark event, celebrating its 60th anniversary by reinforcing its status as the world’s leading travel trade show with approximately 97,000 participants and an estimated 47 billion euros in business volume.
Despite the festive atmosphere, the shadow of the ongoing Middle East conflict loomed large over the convention, significantly altering the strategic focus of international travel buyers and tour operators. As instability continues to affect traditional Mediterranean and Levantine hotspots, the global tourism industry is witnessing a profound shift in consumer behavior toward "safe haven" destinations.
Poland's Baltic Sea Coast: The big winner in 2026?
This beautiful picture shows a sunny summer day in the seaside resort of Świnoujście (Swinemünde) on the Polish Baltic coast and captures the charm of one of the country’s most elegant historical beach destinations…
Maybe. Recent geopolitical events—especially the war involving Iran—are already affecting global travel patterns in 2026. The impact could indirectly benefit destinations such as the Baltic Sea Coast, including resorts in Poland, Germany, and the Baltic states.
Poland's Baltic Sea Coast has 2,000 hours of sunshine per year and is cheaper than German seaside resorts
The hospitality industry in Świnoujście experienced a remarkable boom in 2026. The once quiet seaside resort has transformed into one of the most important tourist destinations on the Polish Baltic coast. Around 200 hotels, guesthouses, and apartment complexes now offer accommodation for guests from Poland, Germany, and Scandinavia.
In 2026, niche travel destinations are expected to see significant growth, while previous giants such as Dubai will lose out
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Is little Gambia benefiting from the current crises and wars around the globe?
Unique flair, good bathing weather from January to December, relatively safe: Africa's Gambia "The smiling coast of Africa"
The war involving Iran is disrupting tourism across the Middle East, with forecasts predicting 11–27% fewer international visitors in the region in 2026 due to security fears, travel warnings, and flight disruptions. As travelers avoid conflict zones, stable destinations like The Gambia could benefit. Its peaceful Atlantic beaches and reputation for safety may attract tourists seeking alternative winter-sun destinations outside the Middle East.
1Such small Atlantic destinations like Sanyang's Rainbow Beach Resort already seeing significantly more bookings for summer 2026
Paradise Beach, Rainbow Beach Resort, Sanyang in Gambia
Safety in countries is very important for tourists from all countries
This geopolitical climate has created a unique opening for smaller niche countries located far from the zones of friction, with The Gambia emerging as a prime example of a peaceful alternative. Experts at the ITB noted that travelers are increasingly seeking the "Smiling Coast of Africa" due to its political stability, authentic nature-based tourism, and year-round sunshine.
Even Guinea Bissau wants to open for tourism
The most magnificent giant trees can be admired at Canhabaque. Here, time seems to have stood still…
Even Guinea Bissau is champing at the bit, eager to attract travellers from all over the world to the 88 unique Bijagos Islands. A lot of niche countries can have much more tourists in 2026, if they act smart and wise.
The cards in the tourism wolrd could be reshuffled.
By positioning themselves as reliable and tranquil sanctuaries, such niche markets are poised to capture a larger share of the European demographic that is currently hesitant to book trips to more volatile regions. Ultimately, ITB 2026 proved that while the industry remains resilient, its future growth is tied to the ability of emerging, peaceful nations to provide the security and serenity that modern travelers now prioritize above all else...
The coast of Guinea-Bissau is more than 320 km long and, in parts, breathtakingly beautiful. Varela Beach in the north still looks the same as it did 100 years ago.
Peace.
Let's hope that the war is ending soon .. let's travel the wonderful planet ... our world...
