American travelers haven’t quite wrapped up the summer 2023 season, but already have eyes on 2024. As summer turns to fall, we tend to find places to jet off to with crisp air and gorgeous colors.
However, a poll conducted by OnePoll for YMT Vacations revealed the top destinations in Americans’ travel plans for next year.
The survey consisted of 2,000 Americans. Many of whom have the goal of visiting 4 different places in 2024.
Traveler preferences range from a focus on eco-tourism to experiencing brand-new destinations, but all in all, it looks as though the travel resurgence won’t stop any time soon.
These are the 7 most popular international destinations for American travelers:
Iceland
The Land of Fire and Ice is on the radar of 14% of Americans looking to take an international trip. It’s no surprise why this stunning country is breaking tourism records.
Iceland may be known for the Northern Lights and Blue Lagoon, but are we going to ignore this country’s obsession with elves?
Land at the main airport in Keflavik, and you will pass pint-size homes dedicated to these definitely real (wink, wink) creatures on your way to the charming capital city.
Greece
Survey says 21% of Americans would love to venture off to the beautiful country of Greece. Some go to the Greek Islands, while others can’t wait to see the Acropolis for themselves.
There are so many wondrous islands to choose from, but why not go all out? You’re in Greece after all!
This country is home to one of the few Blue Zones on Earth. To those unfamiliar, Blue Zones represent places with longer life expectancy due to the society’s unique way of life.
For a truly off-path experience, the island of Ikaria offers serenity at the highest level with world-class hospitality and culture from locals who tend to live to triple digits. Not to mention otherworldly blue waters.
Italy
Just over 30% of Americans are seeking a trip to Italy. We’ve all seen the classic places in the movies, which has planted a seed in our minds to make this a bucket list destination.
You could go to where everyone else goes – Rome, Venice or pretend to hold up the leaning tower of Pisa – or you could venture off to stunning coastal villages, such as Cinque Terre.
Here, the scenic ‘Path of Love’ has just reopened its first segment after being closed for more than a decade.
Spain
Spain isn’t just big cities and wine country; there are amazing islands to explore too. That’s why 40% of American travelers are dead-set on heading to Spain.
Sure, there is absolutely nothing wrong with hitting up the big cities like Madrid or Barcelona, but what about the places that fly under the radar?
Perhaps Zaragoza, Malaga or Ronda will tickle your fancy. Or those in beach mode should consider Palma, for example.
Many vacation on the island of Mallorca to simply relax along the tranquil blue waters. But if you don’t get your butt off the beach, you’d be missing this delightful city full of winding cobblestone streets and historic architecture.
Canada
Our neighbors to the north have a ton of places worth visiting, and it’s quite easy to do so. That’s probably why such a high percentage (42%) of Americans plan on crossing the northern border.
Vancouver is one of the prettiest cities in North America, while Toronto is a cosmopolitan gem. There are so many parks to explore for an amazing experience in nature too.
But the latest exciting travel news out of Canada pertains to digital nomads. Remote workers looking for a long-term stay can move here for up to 6 months with no income requirements.
Mexico
Where to begin with Mexico? Our southern neighbors, rich in culture and world-renowned beaches, are always a top destination for Americans.
So it’s no surprise 42% of Americans plan on visiting here too. Ranging all the way from Tijuana to Chetumal and Los Cabos to Oaxaca, travelers will always find their niche here.
Not only are there world-class beach resorts and the always stunning Mexico City to escape to, there are new up-and-coming regions waiting to be discovered.
Take Mexico’s version of the Grand Canyon, for example. It’s quadruple the size of one of America’s top natural attractions. Barranca del Cobre will take your breath away.
And just wait for the new way to get around some of the top sites in the country. The Maya Train is set to open this December.