Which City Is the Most Popular Tourist Destination?

Bangkok, Thailand, is the city that is the world's most popular as a tourist destination, with almost 16 million visitors in 2013. A big factor is that it is near China, the county that spends the most on international tourism, at more than $100 billion US Dollars (USD) per year. London, England, was second to Bangkok in 2013, with about 15.96 million tourists. Paris, France, was third in popularity at almost 14 million visitors, even though less than 20% of France's tourists actually visit Paris.

More about tourist destinations:

  • One out of every five travel destinations is to a country other than the one where the tourist lives.

  • The US receives the most money brought in by foreign tourists, at roughly $126 billion USD in 2012.

  • More than half of all tourist trips are for leisure, and about one-fourth are for health or religious purposes.
More Info: unwto.org

Discussion Comments

Euroxati
@Chmander and @Viranty, you make some great points, but don't forget what the final bullet point says. Vacation isn't always for leisure purposes, as some do it for health or religion.

As an example, let's say that someone wants to change their religion. They might travel outside of their country to get a better look at what that religion has to offer. Through study, observation, and research.

Chmander

@Viranty - I agree with you about the expenses of being on vacation, and how having a great time more than makes up for it. Honestly, when it's all said and done, I don't think people refuse to go on vacation because they lack the money, they just don't have time.

More than often, we get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of life (especially with our jobs), that we often don't take the time to see what life truly has to offer.

Viranty

Whether you're in the country or outside of it, traveling can be very expensive, but it sure is worth it. Though I don't have enough money at the moment, currently, I'm trying to save enough so that I can go on a vacation as well. Ironically, the place is Bangkok, Thailand.

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