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2023 marked the first full year of unrestricted travel since the end of the health crisis. Border restrictions were lifted, discriminatory measures were removed, and normality was restored in many parts of the world. As a result, there has been a predictable surge in holiday bookings.
Throughout the past year, we have seen an increase in demand for various types of vacations, including cultural activities, beach getaways, workations, and wellness retreats. These travel trends are expected to continue gaining momentum in 2024.
It is not surprising that three iconic sunny countries are expected to become even trendier to travel to in 2024:
Greece
According to a recent report by ForwardKeys, Greece is one of the top three countries that travelers are most likely to visit in the coming year. Greece has gained popularity this year as Europe relaxed travel restrictions, and there has been significant interest in cultural expeditions to explore its ancient heritage.
Greece, the birthplace of democracy and the cradle of Western civilization, offers a plethora of manmade wonders. The Athenian Acropolis Hill is a must-visit, as it houses structures that have played a vital role in shaping Greek nationhood, such as the Parthenon, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and the Temple of Athena Nike.
Outside of Athens, popular spots on the Greek mainland include Delphi, home to the Oracle of Ancient Greece, the Meteora monasteries, and the medieval White Tower of Thessaloniki, among others. For island-hoppers, Santorini, Mykonos, Milos, and Paros offer picturesque landscapes and crystal-clear waters.
The Dominican Republic
As the second-most visited country in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic is another top destination for 2024. With its year-round warm temperatures, state-of-the-art resorts, and rich cultural heritage, it is a favorite among travelers. Punta Cana, a major resort destination on the Caribbean coastline, is particularly popular among Americans looking for a winter escape.
Other popular destinations in the Dominican Republic include La Romana, known for its beautiful beaches, and Puerto Plata, a laid-back port city with a charming colonial core. The capital city, Santo Domingo, has also seen an increase in visitors due to its historical significance as the oldest European-built settlement in the Americas.
Mexico
Mexico tops the list as the world’s trendiest tourist destination, with a record-breaking 66 million passengers traveling through Mexican airports in 2022. Further growth is expected in 2023, and this trend is projected to continue in 2024.
Mexico’s greatest strength lies in its diverse offerings. From the resort-packed Mayan Riviera, which includes popular cities like Cancun, Tulum, and Playa Del Carmen, to the stunning nature of the Pacific states and the captivating colonial state capitals, Mexico has something to offer for everyone.
The Cancun Hotel Zone is a leading attraction, with its mega-resorts along the Caribbean Sea, impressive infrastructure, and renowned hospitality. Lesser-known spots like Merida and Lake Bacalar have also gained popularity recently.
In an effort to enhance travel within the region, Mexico will be launching its first long-distance tourist train in Yucatan, connecting various states in the peninsula. Additionally, a new airport serving Tulum will increase travel demand and air traffic to the region.
Overall, these three sunny destinations are set to become even trendier in 2024, offering a mix of cultural experiences, beautiful beaches, and stunning natural landscapes. As travel continues to rebound, it’s no wonder these countries are on the top of travelers’ lists.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com