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We are experiencing a super busy summer this year as travelers are eager to explore the world.
But where is everyone going during the next few weeks? A new report has the answer.
Forwardkeys, a travel analytics firm, recently published the results of a study showing the most popular city destinations from the 1st of July until August 31.
Some of the destinations coincide with those of TripAdvisor’s and Google Flights reports, but others might surprise travelers.
Forwardkey’s experts analyzed billions of searches —including airlines, travel agencies, and search companies like Kayak, Kiwi, Skyscanner, and more— to reveal the most popular destinations.
The complete report shows the top 100 destinations and compares their performance to last year.
One of the main differences compared to the 2022 results is that now that travel restrictions related to the pandemic have been lifted, Asian cities have climbed.
These are the 7 most popular international destinations this summer according to the new report:
7) Istanbul
Turkey has been gaining a lot of popularity as one of the best travel destinations in 2023, and Istanbul is a must-go this summer.
This city has stunning architecture, delicious food, spectacular views, and fascinating history. Many travelers fall immediately in love with Istanbul the first time they visit.
6) Lisbon
Portugal’s capital attracts travelers from all over the world —especially digital nomads for the great quality of life and the visa— and there are many reasons to visit.
Traveler flock here for the beautiful architecture, vibrant nightlife, delicious and affordable food, and the great beaches.
Lisbon can also be a great base to explore other destinations in this beautiful country.
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5) Barcelona
Even though there are a few things travelers should bare in mind before visiting Barcelona this summer, this city seems to be one of the headquarters for globetrotters.
Despite the large crowds, Barcelona offers travelers incredible attractions, a great young and happy atmosphere, and many events and festivals.
4) Denpasar Bali
This capital city in Bali is the main hub for those who want to explore this enchanting island. Summer and beach go well hand in hand, but beaches in Bali make travelers’ experiences even better. No wonder it made it into the top ten.
This summer, Bali will be packed with tourists and digital nomads, but travelers can still visit top places to avoid the crowds.
Visitors must consider the new strict rules —like travelers not being allowed to drive scooters without an official license or staying at non-registered accommodations— when traveling to Bali this summer.
3) London
The language is not a barrier to this amazing destination, and summer is the prime tourist season.
London is known for its rainy and cloudy days, but during summer, there are more opportunities for sunny days that allow visitors to admire the breathtaking cityscape and walk its popular streets.
There are also world-class museums, amazing landmarks, and activities, and it has a vibrant nightlife.
2) Paris
It seems despite the worrying crisis France is going through, tourists always want to visit this charming city!
The Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs-Élysées, the Seine… There’s so much to see and do in Paris, and this city is a dream come true to so many people around the world.
During summer, travelers get to enjoy music festivals, the long days, the beautiful sunsets embellishing the already spectacular buildings… No wonder it remains a top destination.
Paris is always à la mode!
1) Bangkok
And finally, the first place goes to Thailand’s capital: Bangkok.
This destination made a clear first place; it has been the most researched city for the summer, even far ahead of Paris.
This result is also proof of the recovery of the Asia Pacific market and the reactivation of the different destination’s global competition, as explained ForwardKeys’s Vice President of Insights, Olivier Ponti.
Travelers heading to Thailand this summer must stay up to date with the new rules as a new tourist fee is going to be introduced.
(Update** recent reports have shown that the tourist fee has been delayed until at least September)
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Tom
Monday 26th of June 2023
What Thailand tourist fee? It's been floated but has now been postponed indefinitely. May never happen and certainly won't be, anytime soon. No point in mentioning it.
Tyler Fox
Tuesday 27th of June 2023
Tom, thank you for your comment. We have updated the article to reflect this.