Emerging Destinations Around the Globe

Some travel destinations – Hawaii, Las Vegas and London come to mind – seem to be perennial favorites, always popular with tourists. But travel has trends, and over time new favorite destinations emerge.

Carlson Wagonlit Travel’s 2008 Travel Trends Survey identified several destinations currently emerging for vacation travel. Travelers’ desire for new adventures and their cultural curiosity – even the desire to use the passports that more Americans now possess – contribute to the up-and-coming status of new locations around the globe.

Several destinations in Eastern Europe rated “emerging” status this year, including Croatia, Hungary and the Czech Republic. In Asia, China leads the way as an emerging destination, perhaps due to the 2008 Summer Olympics, which will be held there. In the Middle East, Dubai is an emerging destination, based mainly on growing interest from upscale travelers. South America offers a range of emerging destinations, including Brazil, Peru, Argentina, Chile, Venezuela and the Galapagos Islands.

In Central America, Costa Rica is the overwhelming choice as an emerging destination. To help meet the quickly rising demand for vacations in Costa Rica, Pleasant Holidays recently launched new travel programs that feature more than 20 resorts in Costa Rica. Vacationers can choose from hotels and resorts, including some all-inclusive options, in Guanacaste, Puntarenas, San Jose, Monteverde and Arenal.

To plan your next vacation to an emerging destination, talk with your travel professional.