As conflicts and political tensions affect more regions, many travelers will increasingly choose destinations known for stability, safety, and welcoming hospitality. Countries with peaceful environments, natural beauty, and reliable infrastructure will benefit most. Travelers may also prefer shorter trips within their own continents. Regions such as parts of Northern Europe, Southern Africa, and West Africa—including **The Gambia—could gain attention as relatively calm and authentic alternatives in an uncertain world.
Who will benefit from the turmoil of war around the world in 2026? Probably safe destinations: Poland, Gambia or even Guinea Bissau
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:
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. A tourism expert from travelindustry.news Mr. Joerg Friederichs said at the end of ITB 2026:
In 2026, niche travel destinations like Poland’s Baltic Sea coast are expected to see significant growth, while previous giants such as Dubai will lose out
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Want to know more about Poland’s Baltic Sea Coast?
Are even African niche countries like the little Gambia benefiting from the current crises and wars around the globe?
Probably such small destinations will have more tourists if the war in the Arabic World is not to stop. 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.
Safety is an important aspect that can greatly influence tourism
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. In Gambia everybody speak English, this is also a good reason, why a lot of Europeans are visiting one of the lovely Eco Reorts or hotels along the coast or even buying such nice African round houses in a lovely forest area close to the village Sanyang.
In Gambia, it is possible for foreigners to purchase land or houses, unlike in Thailand or the Philippines
Do you want to know more?
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 the West African island country Guinea Bissau wants to open for tourism
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. Experts recommend that the government of Guinea-Bissau arrange for more direct flights from Europe and simplify the entry process. Without visa requirements, many more travellers from Europe or Canada/USA would visit this small but very beautiful country.
The cards in the tourism wolrd could be reshuffled: Guinea Bissau could be a big winner in the next years
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…
Tourism has growing importance for Guinea-Bissau, offering opportunities to diversify the economy beyond agriculture and fishing. Natural assets like the Bijagós Archipelago attract eco-tourists, supporting local jobs, conservation, and small businesses while promoting sustainable development and international awareness.
More information from the Guinea Bissau Tourism Information:
The Guinea Bissau experts
Who wrote the article about the future of travel?
BellaCoola Film Production UG
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Mr. Oliver Gaebe
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bellacoola-liefert@die-besten-bilder.de
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