As the world is gradually coming together, more and more people are travelling globally. International tourism is at an all-time high and the numbers are only going up. For people travelling from Western countries, Asia is among the most-preferred international tourist destinations. With their deep cultural undertones and a rich tapestry of traditions, countries like India, Thailand, China and Japan figure high on travel lists.
But international tourism in the east is not just limited to culture tours. Destinations like Singapore, Hong Kong and Macau have developed themselves into exciting tourist playgrounds that can easily rival the best international tourist places in the west. The middle east has its own unique culture that blooms like a colourful flower amidst the beige desert monotones. It boasts some of the best international tourist destinations in the world.
If you’re looking forward to some exciting international tours, you must choose from some of the best international tourist places for a memorable holiday. Here’s a brief look at some exciting holiday destinations around the world.
Probably among the most sought-after international tourist places, any country on continental Europe will make for a wonderful holiday. It is teeming with history and blessed with plenty of natural beauty. European international tours are very much in demand and make up a sizable slice of the international travel pie. France is a romantic holiday destination mostly preferred by couples and honeymooners. The lure of a dreamy boat ride on the Seine, or a secret tryst under the Eiffel tower, is simply too strong to resist. While France is taken over by lovers, Switzerland attracts more families. The allure of Mount Titlis and Jungfraujoch is enhanced by the creamy sweetness of Swiss chocolates. Culture hunters should head to UK, Netherlands or Austria to tap into Europe’s throbbing cultural pulse. If you’re more of a history buff, explore Greece and find the origins of Western civilisation. A visit to Rome will also whet your appetite for the old with lessons from ancient history. Sail along quaint canals in Venice and Amsterdam and be amazed by the picture-postcard perfect scenes along the way.
After Europe, Asia ranks highest in international tourism. In olden times, the shroud of mystery heightened Asia’s appeal as an exotic destination. Home to many vibrant cultures and religions, Asia attracts a fair number of international tours every year. India, China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Bhutan are some of the Asian countries that get the greatest number of tourists.
India’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage, coupled with its rich history has been attracting tourists since the 1960s and 70s. China has its Great Wall, Japan has its beautiful Cherry Blossoms and Thailand has its mystical traditions. Macau is China’s answer to Las Vegas while Hong Kong has developed itself into a brilliant global city that is a melting pot of cultures from all over the world. Countries like Indonesia, Vietnam and Cambodia are gradually realising their potential and are well on their way to becoming an integral part of international tourism.
Discovered by Amerigo Vespucci, USA, Mexico, Bahamas, Costa Rica and Canada are the most well-known countries on this continent. USA and Canada attract the highest number of international travellers. Blessed with a bounty of natural beauty and a varied terrain, Canada is the more rugged destination among the two neighbours.
USA is the dream destination for many international travellers and features very high on many travel lists. The natural beauty of its national parks and the seemingly inexhaustible energy of Las Vegas and New York are enticing prospects for seasoned as well as first-time travellers.
If North America is all about man-made wonders and attractions, South America is dominated with natural bounty. Countries like Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru and Venezuela figure on many travel lists.
The mystery of Machu Pichu, the adventure of the impenetrable Amazon Rainforest and the stark beauty of Angel Falls, all add to South America’s appeal. But it’s not all just about natural beauty. The Rio carnival is probably the biggest party in the world. And if you’re a football fan, you’ll fit right in.
The very name of Africa conjures up images of vast open grasslands, endless horizons and a land teeming with wildlife. Considered to be the cradle of life, Africa inspires respect with its raw beauty and sheer ruggedness. But only a handful of African nations figure in international tourism.
Kenya’s Masai Mara Reserve, South Africa’s Kruger National Park and Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park have put these countries on the tourist map. Then there are cities like Cairo and Alexandria in Egypt and Lagos in Nigeria that showcase the heritage and culture of their respective countries.
The continent down under is a vibrant holiday destination that has everything an intrepid traveller looks for. While Australia has the Great Outback, New Zealand possesses an otherworldly natural beauty that could easily be mistaken as a land from fantasy. Sydney and Melbourne are the cultural torchbearers of Australia while Christchurch does the honours for New Zealand.
With international tourism on the rise, it is a good time to explore the world.