Tag: Surprise

  • Top 6 Summer Destinations (One Might Surprise You!) For American Travelers In 2024  

    Top 6 Summer Destinations (One Might Surprise You!) For American Travelers In 2024  

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    Haven’t decided where you’re traveling to this summer?

    Don’t worry; there’s still time to cement your summer vacation plans.  

    In 2023 more Americans traveled internationally than ever before, and forecasts suggest that number will jump up again this year.  

    View of the statues in Trafalgar Square, London

    But where are they going? 

    These are the top 6 summer destinations for American travelers in 2024 based on the latest Google search data.  

    The Usual Suspects  

    It’s no surprise that London is the most searched city for American travelers this year.

    \America’s love affair with the UK capital shows no signs of abating, and for good reason.  

    London is a brilliant destination and home to some of the best museums and art galleries in the world. It also boasts a rich cultural heritage, fascinating historical attractions, and incredible architecture.

    London is a diverse and welcoming city where tourists can be amazed by the huge variety of things to see and do.  

    Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster bridge in London

    What’s more, the shared language between the UK and the U.S. makes it an incredibly easy vacation destination for American travelers, particularly those making their first overseas trip. 

    London is followed in 2nd place by its near-neighbor Paris, the city of love, which is also a perennially popular destination for U.S. travelers.

    Paris is regularly listed as the number one bucket list destination for American tourists.

    The popularity of Paris this year is also being bolstered as it is the host city for the Olympic Games this summer.

    Paris is preparing for an estimated 15 million visitors to arrive for the games this summer, an incredible number given the city’s population of 12.4 million.  

    Top view of flag of french olympics games 2024

    Unless you already have tickets or are a huge sports fan, Paris is best avoided between July and August this year.

    Plan your bucket list visit for the fall instead.  

    Not only will the crowd levels be lower, but the temperatures are also better suited to sightseeing in this exciting and constantly surprising city.  

    A Big Surprise  

    If spots 1 and 2 for America’s favorite cities were expected, then the city in third place is sure to be a big surprise.

    Tokyo is the third most popular destination for U.S. travelers this year, skyrocketing from last year’s 8th place.  

    Tokyo skyline and Mountain fuji in Japan

    Given the long flight time between the U.S. and Japan, not to mention the costs involved in airfare between the two countries, it is a big surprise that Tokyo is so popular right now.  

    But Tokyo’s unique cultural experiences, diverse range of activities, and position in modern pop culture mean that people just can’t get enough of it right now.

    Some of the must-visit attractions in the country include the Meiji Jingu Shrine, strolling around Ueno Park, or exploring the electronic wonderland of Akihabara.  

    If Tokyo is on your must-visit list, then the good news is that there’s never been a better time to visit Japan than as a U.S. traveler.

    The yen has dropped to a 34-year low against the dollar.  

    colorful signs in Akihabara Tokyo Japan.

    Tokyo has a reputation for being one of the world’s most expensive cities but the weak value of the Yen means that goods, services, attractions and even hotel stays are cheaper than they have been for a long time.  

    In 4th place is Rome and in 5th place is New York. A spot that is much closer to home if the idea of flying half way across the world doesn’t appeal to you.  

    An Unexpected Drop 

    Perhaps another surprise is that Cancun has dropped into 6th place on the list.

    America is by far the most popular country of origin among international air passengers to Mexico in general and Cancun in particular. 4.2 million Americans visited the region in 2023.  

    As long as there is still sand on the beaches, Americans will continue to head to Cancun in their droves. The number of air links between the two countries are considerable and flights tend to be affordable too.  

    cancun from above

    So why has the city dropped to be the 6th most popular for American travelers when it was in 2nd place last year? One thought is that some American tourists feel anxious about visiting Mexico right now due to reports of crime and warnings from the U.S. government.  

    In response to these concerns, the Mexican authorities have increased police and military presence in the city.

    And crime rates in Cancun remain low, making it one of the safest resort cities in Mexico.  

    These Are The Top 6 Summer Destinations For U.S. Travelers  

    According to Google search data, the complete list of the top 6 most searched summer destinations for American travelers are: 

    1. London, United Kingdom 
    1. Paris, France  
    1. Tokyo, Japan 
    1. Rome, Italy  
    1. New York, United States  
    1. Cancun, Mexico  
    view of the colosseum in rome with a beautiful sunset behind

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    This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

    Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

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  • The Best Cities In The World According To Timeout May Surprise You

    The Best Cities In The World According To Timeout May Surprise You

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    When most people think of the best cities in the world, they likely picture some of the most well-known cities like Paris, London, New York, or LA. However, after a massive survey of over 20,000 city residents around the globe, the best cities in the world, according to Timeout, may surprise you. Not just because they aren’t the most well-known or the first to come to mind, but because several are known, but not for reasons that would point to them being the best. So, what are the best cities in the world according to Timeout?

    1) Edinburgh, Scotland

    Edinburgh Skyline

    According to the 2022 Time Out Index, the best city in the world is Edinburgh, Scotland. With all this beautiful European city has to offer, it isn’t surprising that it secured the top spot. Some of the city’s attractive qualities include:

    • Incredible views and history dash the streets of this highly walkable city.
    • Independent shops are everywhere, offering unique merchandise you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
    • Edinburgh offers a progressive feel and welcomes everyone, with 88% of residents reporting that expressing who you are in Edinburgh is effortless.

    2) Chicago, Illinois

    Chicago skyline with park in foreground

    A surprising second-place city due to a high-crime stigma, Chicago is often mistaken for the murder capital of the United States. In reality, Chicago was 10th on the list of cities with the most murders in 2022, with 24 per 100,000 people. In general, Chicago is a very safe city to visit, with high crime rates mostly restricted to specific neighborhoods. Below are some of the things that draw people to Chicago:

    • The Food! Chicago-style deep-dish pizza is an absolute must when visiting this city, and Chicago-style hot dogs line the streets from vendors throughout the city.
    • Iconic art and culture. Art galleries are all over the city, and shows are constantly taking place.
    • Thriving nightlife. Whether you’re into happy hours, dinners, bars, or nightclubs, Chicago offers something for everyone looking for entertainment after the sun goes down.

    3) Medellín, Colombia

    Medellín Colombia 4 South bridge with city in the background at night

    Another surprise on this year’s list, Medellín used to be known as the most dangerous city in the world. When many people think of the city, they picture Pablo Escobar and crime. However, much has changed in the past 30 years, and Medellín is now generally considered safe. Here are some of the top reasons people visit:

    • The weather is almost perfect, with year-round averages of 72°F (22°C).
    • Medellín offers exceptional value for your money, with some hostels costing less than $10 per night.
    • Like Chicago, the nightlife is flourishing. Whether looking for a relaxed drink or a bass-fueled dance party, there is evening entertainment to suit every traveler.

    4) Glasgow, Scotland

    Glasgow Scotland park with couple walking on bridge

    Glasgow is the second-largest city in Scotland and was voted the friendliest in the Time Out Index for 2022. The people are kind, and the city is brimming with things to do. People love Glasgow for many reasons, including:

    5) Amsterdam, The Netherlands

    Amsterdam canal with bikes locked up on bridge rails

    Respondents to the Time Out Index voted Amsterdam the easiest place on earth to ‘express who you are’ and awarded it second place for progressiveness. Unsurprisingly, it is the best city in the world for bicyclists and is also extremely walkable. Here are some of the reasons people love this famous European city:

    • The nightlife is unlikely to disappoint. With countless nightclubs throughout the city and a closing time of 4 a.m. on the weekends, Amsterdam offers partygoers endless opportunities to dance to their heart’s content.
    • Coffeeshop culture. Amsterdam and Marijuana are two words that go hand in hand in many people’s minds. The city has over 160 coffeeshops to enjoy. Recently, the city proposed banning tourists from its coffeeshops, but for now, visitors are still allowed.
    Tourist in Amsterdam with camera

    The five cities above each offer visitors unique experiences they won’t find elsewhere. Each has a unique blend of culture, commerce, and charm that has earned them the top 5 spots for the best cities in the world, according to Timeout. Below are the top 20 cities on Timeout’s list of 53 best countries.

    Top 20 Best Cities of the World List

    1. Edinburgh
    2. Chicago
    3. Medellín
    4. Glasgow
    5. Amsterdam
    6. Prague
    7. Marrakech
    8. Berlin
    9. Montreal
    10. Copenhagen
    11. Cape Town
    12. Madrid
    13. Manchester
    14. Mumbai
    15. Melbourne
    16. Taipei
    17. London
    18. Porto
    19. Lyon
    20. New York
    Woman looking at sunset near river in chicago

    For a complete list of all 53 of the best cities in the world according to Timeout, see their website.

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    Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling.  Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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