For some of us, it might be hard to believe, but spring is actually right around the corner. If you are reading this and happen to be one of the millions of Americans currently under a winter weather watch, then this might be your sign to start thinking about a spring escape this year. You certainly wouldn’t be alone, as a new report from travel behemoth Tripadvisor has found that many U.S. travelers are thinking this exact same thing.
In their Seasonal Travel Index, the findings concluded that two-thirds of travelers surveyed are planning trips this year between March and May and that 94% of Americans surveyed plan to travel more or the same amount as they did last year, but most plan on spending more money on average on their travels than they did last year. So, where is everyone going? (And why are they going without me?)
Based on internet searches carried out between December 1st, 2022 to January 25th, 2023 by the American market, the survey compiled a list of the top 10 most-searched-for destinations, both for domestic travel as well as international. For these planned trips, the intended dates of travel fall between March 1st and May 31st, 2023.
Here Are The Top 10 International Destinations That American Travelers Are Hoping To Go This Spring
Cancun, Mexico
One of the most popular places for American tourists to visit in Mexico is Cancun, and despite some recent bad press, the destination remains the most searched-for hotspot with the American market.
While the potential for sargassum might ruin your beach holiday, there are plenty of options to choose from to make sure you can avoid the worst of this seaweed. There are things to know before visiting, of course, as this is a destination you will want to be fully up to date on all the latest news before you head there.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
A trusted favorite for American travelers looking for that powder-fine sand and crystal-clear beach experience, Punta Cana has been smashing tourism records and shows no signs of slowing down.
With new resorts and attractions opening, the list of reasons to visit this paradise on the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic just keeps growing.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
This searched-for destination takes us over to Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula and can be found nestled down at the southernmost tip. With turquoise waters of both the Pacific Ocean as well as the Sea Of Cortez bordering it, Cabo San Lucas (or more simply Cabo as it’s affectionately referred to) is a perfect place for American travelers looking for some Mexican beach time this spring.
Keep in mind there are many things to know before planning a trip to Cabo San Lucas, so do your research and don’t forget to pack your snorkel.
Paris, France
It should come as no surprise to see this mega-popular and timeless city on the list of most searched-for destinations this spring. Paris and the rest of France hold on to their position as the most visited places on Earth by international tourists, with over 66 million tourists visiting in 2022.
There is nothing quite like Paris in the springtime (when it drizzles), and visitors can take in the spring blooms amongst the famous sites. And if you don’t have the time to jaunt off to Paris this spring, you could always save your money and plan a trip during the upcoming Olympics.
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
This tourist destination in Mexico has simply been exploding in popularity in the past few years, and it’s not just vacation travelers that are loving Playa del Carmen but also many digital nomads and ex-pats who have been calling it home recently.
Located just south of Cancun, along the Caribbean shores of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, this area has mega hotels and stunning sunset view apartments, but also a great location for exploring the lush jungles, islands, and Mayan ruins nearby. Just be sure to book early, as the area is likely to sell out during popular times.
London, U.K.
What was once a very expensive flight is now much cheaper and more accessible to many Americans, and therefore searches for a spring trip to London are up. According to Visit Britain, they are projecting over 35 million visitors in 2023, with many of them traveling in the spring months of March and April.
U.S. travelers love London for its epic and historical sites and a very different way of life, yet with a shared language. Spring is especially beautiful as the many gardens in the city begin to fill with blooming flowers, and if it starts to rain, they can just pop into a local pub to wait it out.
Montego Bay, Jamaica
As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Jamaica, Montego Bay has long been a favorite, with American travelers looking to lounge on the beach and enjoy island life. The laid-back lifestyle of this country helps people unwind, and the sun, surf, and sea don’t hurt either.
And with more low-cost flight options from major U.S. cities, now might just be the time to head to Jamaica to kick back and relax.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Another Mexican destination on the list takes us to the country’s Pacific coast, in Jalisco state (are you sensing a theme, yes, Americans love Mexico!) Puerto Vallarta is a favorite with travelers from around the world and is becoming one of the most popular places to vacation.
Reporting tourism numbers that are breaking records, the destination offers many things to do and places to see; if you can tear yourself away from the beach, that is! Another bonus is that travel will be even easier soon to Puerto Vallarta, with the opening of more eGates for faster border control, cutting some of your travel time down, and meaning you can get to the beach sooner once you land.
Palm-Eagle Beach, Aruba
The Caribbean island of Aruba has long been a popular choice for American travelers looking for a tropical beach holiday. Aruba is loved by many, and an estimated two million tourists visit its shores each year, with around 80 percent of them being from America. While Aruba itself is only about 20 miles long, there is no shortage of beaches to spend your days lounging on.
Palm-Eagle Beach is a favorite due to its many hotels, amazing sunsets, and calm waters. While this area has the best of the tourism you can find on the island, it can also get a bit crowded, so make sure to plan accordingly.
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
A popular choice for a winter vacation, Turks and Caicos is seeing a surge in popularity with American travelers for many reasons, one being the additional flights that are being offered. Actually a group of 40 islands located in the Caribbean, this country offers many things to do while you enjoy your vacation there.
Providenciales is the most populated island of the lot and the third largest. Home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, it’s hard to imagine this paradise not making the list of most searched-for destinations.
In addition to international travel, the study also analyzed searches for domestic trips. Leading the searches for domestic travel were:
