When it comes to international travel, there are statistics that say WHERE people are actually traveling, and then there are polls, that reveal where people WANT to travel. Sometimes these lists can be confusing, and oft times totally different. So, I have decided to put together a list of places that are both. This list of international destinations for U.S. travelers is based off where people have been traveling, and also what is on that Wishlist stuck to the front door of the refrigerator!
Before I start, let me ask you a question. Where do YOU want to travel this year? If there were no restrictions, and money was no object. Where would you be buying a ticket to?
While you are thinking about that, let’s get into the list of top international destinations for U.S. travelers, and maybe it will give you a few ideas!
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Table of Contents
- Mexico
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- Italy
- France
- Dominican Republic
- Spain
- Germany
- Indonesia
- Australia
- Summary
Mexico
Mexico is an amazing country, and the diversity that it offers is literally second to none! From the big tourist towns and beaches of Cancun and Tulum, to ancient Mayan Ruins, canyons, cenotes, and a food scene to die for! This place has it all, and it is right on the doorstep of the United States.
If you are thinking of heading to Mexico, you will first have to decide what sort of holiday you are looking for. The climate can be very different, depending on where you visit, and a week in Baja California or Mexico City will be very different to a week in Cancun. A little bit of research goes a long way, but one thing is for certain – Mexico is a winner, with over 39 million Americans opting to holiday there in 2019 alone!
Canada
Canada. That strange land north of the border. Well, I have news for you! It isn’t strange at all, and 15 million Americans holidaying there every year agree!
If Mexico is a land of contrasts, then Canada is a country of Panoramas. This place is a photographer’s heaven, with lakes and mountains that stretch on forever. Snowy landscapes, wildlife, and train journeys that are among the very best in the world. Simply put, if you have not been to Canada, then you are missing out!
One of my favorite places in Canada is Vancouver. And that is saying a lot when the country has SO MANY amazing towns and cities. The thing that does it for me with Vancouver is that you have the best of all the worlds. It is right on the bay, and therefore offers everything that a seaside city would offer. It also has the snow capped Rockies at the back door, and therefore comes with skiing, hiking, panoramas and everything else that can be found in the wilds of a mountain wilderness. Honestly, you can’t go wrong.
United Kingdom
Aah, the good old U.K. The land of Kings and Queens, warm beer and people with toffee accents. Right?
Wrong! Although there IS a Queen. But the warm beer really is a bit of a hoax, (it exists, but not predominantly) and the toffee accents are just, well, accents really.
The United Kingdom is made up of four different countries, and the fact is, that it is one of the top international destinations for U.S. travelers. The reason is simply that it has so much to offer. From the rolling green countryside and quaint English pubs, to Northern Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway and Scotland’s mountains and lakes, there is something for everyone in the U.K. Just don’t get too hung up on the dreary weather. It will be fine tomorrow, trust me….
Italy
Italy makes the list of top international destinations for U.S. travelers simply because, well, it’s pretty awesome! If you love history, culture, food and wine, then this is a place that you simply MUST visit at least once in your lifetime.
From the paved roads of ancient Rome, to the incredible Amalfi Coast, the canals of Venice or the incredible history that is Florence, you don’t have to go very far in Italy to be in awe. The entire country is like a postcard, and just when you think you have seen it all, you realize that you have only really just scratched the surface.
You can holiday in Italy for as short or as long as you like, but do yourself a favor and see as much of it as you can. Every city is different, and distances are not that great, so while public transport is an option, self driving is the most rewarding choice. Although, if you take a short cut through the Tuscan Countryside, you might find yourself driving a lot slower than normal….
France
Castles, castles and more castles! That’s what comes to my mind when I think of France. But what is the country really like?
The answer is, pretty amazing. That is why it is such a popular destination, not just for U.S. travelers, but for those from all over the world. In fact, France would be on the list of popular destinations for holiday makers from nearly every nation on Earth.
What makes it so special then?
The answer is simple. It is simply gorgeous. From the iconic Eiffel Tower and Arc De Triomphe of Paris, to the rugged and beautiful coastlines. From the rolling green countryside, to the snow topped alps and the Riviera Coastline. There is nothing that this country does not have to offer.
Oh, did I mention the food? And no, I’m not talking about snails. I AM talking about cheese and wine, and some of the most amazing delicacies in the world. The restaurants in France are incredible, and dining is one of the main reasons that many residents of neighboring countries visit. I mean, how far would YOU go for an epic fondue….
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is the most visited destination in the Caribbean, and it is no surprise that it features on my list of international destinations for U.S. travelers. The island is the quintessential tropical playground. If you are picturing crystal clear blue water with white sandy beaches lined by palm trees, then you are picturing the Dominican Republic!
The island is not just about the beaches, however. Of all the Caribbean islands, it is the most diverse, and also boasts jungles, mountains, vast arid areas and 300m high waterfalls. Whatever takes your fancy, if you desire a tropical location, you would be hard pressed to not find your perfect holiday here!
Spain
Spain is one of the most laid back countries in Europe, so if you are after a place to relax, this could be it. No one is in a hurry in Spain, and if you enjoy having a laugh and a good long chat over a glass of wine and plate of good food, then you will be right at home in Spain.
The main centers of Spain are the cities, Madrid and Barcelona. Both are energetic and vibrant, and extremely beautiful. Barcelona in particular is very photogenic, and is a place that you could and probably should, spend a bit of time.
The countryside of Spain is in direct contrast to the energetic cities. Here in the smaller towns you will find the lifestyle laid back and casual. They seem to have a lot of time in Spain, and they savor every single minute of it. Take a hike through the mountains, seek out an ancient medieval village, or just find a quiet beach to chill out on. The choice is yours….
Germany
Germany is a big country, and there is a lot to do and cover. But depending on what “your scene” is, you will more than likely find it here.
If one thing stands out to me more than anything else about the German culture, it is that they love their food and drink. And THAT is an understatement! They have entire festivals dedicated to it, such as the Octoberfest beer festival in Munich that is run as an annual event. They literally set up giant tents in parks and serve liters of beer and stuff you full of sausage all day every day!
The funny thing is, I have been to Germany when it’s NOT Octoberfest, and it’s actually not that much different! The Germans love their food and love their Beer and Schnapps. And if you like sausages, then you will be a happy camper.
Germany is not ALL about the food, though, because the country is amazing. Chock full of castles, hiking, mountains and history, there is enough here to keep anyone occupied for months. Do yourself a favor, and put Germany on your bucket list, because it is really worth the visit!
Indonesia
Indonesia is made up of over 17,000 islands, each one as diverse as the next, so it is little wonder that the South East Asian Country is on the list of top international destinations for U.S. travelers. But how much do you really know about Indonesia?
The reality is, that the only place that most travelers know about in Indonesia is the holiday island of Bali. This is no surprise, as it is by far and away the most frequented destination in the country, with major drawcards being it’s amazing culture, temples, panoramic views and beaches. It is cheap too, and comparable to many of the other South East Asian or Central American countries, meaning it is a favorite for backpackers to the region.
There is a lot more to Indonesia than just Bali, however, and in recent years the island of Java has been rising into more prominence. With amazing Volcanoes, epic waterfalls and its very own wonders of the world, it is rapidly becoming the new “must experience” place in Indonesia, with the Central Java city of Yogyakarta at the very top of the list as the new and fresh place to see!
Australia
Australia really needs no introduction, but do you realize just how vast the land down under actually is? That’s right, there is more to Australia than just an Opera House, Harbor Bridge, Kangaroos and pristine white beaches that stretch on forever.
Although, to be fair, there are those things too…
Australia is huge. This is a place that you either fly over an hour between capital cities, or spend 12 hours on a roadtrip. The East Coast cities of Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne are a long distance apart, which also means that they are all unique. Then there is Perth, which will set you back 5 hours crammed into an economy class seat.
No matter where you go in Australia, however, you will find those iconic beaches, friendly smiles, and welcoming attitude. Visit Sydney or Melbourne and soak in the vibes of places you usually only see in postcards. South East Queensland will dish up the epic Gold Coast, amazing Hinterland and laid back Brisbane city. Further north are more endless beaches and the incredible Great Barrier Reef.
Whatever you do, if you visit Australia for any length of time, DO NOT miss Perth. This city sits on the Western Coastline and is different and possibly more beautiful than anywhere else in the country.
Simply put, Australia is amazing.
Summary
The world is full of amazing locations for a getaway. International travel is on the way up, and more and more Americans are checking their passports and heading to the airports. This list of international destinations for U.S. travelers is by no means exhaustive, and only really scratches the surface. So pack your bags and get ready, because your next holiday deserves to be a good one!
DON’T FORGET to leave a comment below. I promise to reply!
What a fascinating array of foreign locations! Every location has a certain allure and charms. Italian cuisine and its rich history are truly unforgettable.