Last Updated
Whether it’s the allure of pristine beaches, the mystery of historic attractions, or the thrill of city life, American travelers are always looking for that next great experience.
And while timeless classics like Cancun, Paris, or Bangkok can offer all that and more, we tend to thrive on a sense of variety, which is why so many of us are turning our eyes toward trendier hotspots.
Airalo, a network operator whose focus is pre-paid mobile data connectivity for international travelers, recently released a report revealing the destinations that saw the biggest increase in interest from American travelers this past year.
These were the places that made it to the top 5:
5. US Virgin Islands
Searches including the US Virgin Islands, comprising St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, have almost tripled this past year, with many travelers rediscovering the unique blend of Caribbean charm and American convenience found only on the archipelago’s powdery shores.
A truly one-of-a-kind destination, the US Virgin Islands’ cultural diversity is reflected in its mouthwatering cuisine, lively music, and even more energetic festivals.
Local markets offer a vibrant array of fresh Caribbean flavors that’ll put you right on that island mindset, whereas the many traditional celebrations held throughout the year provide an authentic experience for travelers eager to embrace the local spirit.
4. Tokyo, Japan
From being named one of the safest destinations for solo travelers to winning the title of one of Asia’s best cities to visit, Tokyo has had a widely successful year tourism-wise, and if the recent growth spout continues, a new visitor record can’t be too far away, either.
Boasting futuristic skyscrapers set against historic temples, the Japanese capital creates a visually stunning, culturally rich landscape that can’t be replicated anywhere else on Earth.
From the electronic wonderland of Akihabara to the fashionable streets of Harajuku, the city caters to virtually every type of traveler.
Here, you can immerse yourself in traditional tea ceremonies, eat in Michelin-starred sushi restaurants, or explore the ancient Asakusa district – the only challenge will be choosing what to do first.
3. Osaka, Japan
Japan’s status as one of the trendiest travel destinations in the world is further proved by the fact that it’s the only country with two entries on today’s list, with the second one being Osaka.
Commonly known as the “Kitchen of Japan” Osaka has always held a reputation as a foodie’s paradise.
To this day, American travelers looking to experience the best of what Japanese cuisine has to offer (and that’s a very high bar) will have the time of their lives here.
The city’s thrilling food scene, probably best represented by the famous Dotonbori district, offers a sensory overload with its neon lights, bustling markets, and tantalizing aromas that’ll fill your dreams even years after you set foot in the Japanese hotspot.
Osaka’s warm and welcoming atmosphere, colloquially known as “kuidaore” or “eat until you drop,” perfectly encapsulates the local culinary philosophy.
From savory okonomiyaki to melt-in-your-mouth takoyaki, Osaka’s food offerings are sure to be the highlight of everyone lucky enough to stumble across this part of Asia.
Beyond the culinary wonders, attractions to explore while in the city include the Osaka Castle as well as Universal Studios Japan.
2. French Polynesia
While the idyllic archipelago nestled in the South Pacific was, to many, one of the most surprising destinations to make it to Airalo’s ranking, the fact that searches involving the stunning coastal destination rose 227% last year speaks to the fact that Americans are starting to take notice of its other-worldly beauty.
Featuring overwater bungalows, turquoise lagoons, lush tropical landscapes, as well as iconic destinations like Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Moorea, this paradisic hotspot has now become synonymous with opulence and movie-like views.
1. Cayman Islands
With a remarkable 483% increase in searches over the last year, the Cayman Islands have nabbed the well-deserved title of the world’s trendiest destination.
Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman together offer such a diverse range of experiences, ranging from world-class diving and snorkeling to upscale dining and luxury resorts, that every single lucky visitor to get there will get to have their biggest travel dreams fulfilled.
The Stingray City sandbar, the local nature reserves, and the iconic Seven Mile Beach are all must-sees.
Read More:
Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans Starting At $10 Per Week
How To Easily Earn Points For Free Travel
↓ Join Our Community ↓
The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS
Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.
This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com