Top 10 Cultural Holiday Destinations

Recently, I found one article regarding top 10 cultural holiday destinations. The lists of top 10 beaches are endless, so let’s concentrate on interesting destinations from another angle. Of course, it all depends on your personal preferences, but for cultural holidays you can’t beat these.

1. Athens, Greece

This is an amazing city with its mixture of ancient and modern. A wander around the Acropolis and seeing the Parthenon from so many places in the city has to be top of the list. The museums in this capital city are unique and if you have never been to Greece, then you really should make it the one place to visit on your bucket list.

2. Crete, Greece

The Minoan civilization is one that had the most amazing statues, architecture and running water. In the Palace at Knossos you can see the labyrinth where the Minotaur was supposed to have lived and devoured the maidens and young men sent to Crete every year. The whole island is steeped in myth and history and is just the place for people who want to combine culture with relaxing on pristine beaches.

3. Indus Valley, Pakistan

This area is unknown and unexplored by the West in comparison to Egypt for example. However the Indus Valley civilization was truly ahead of others not only in Asia but also in the world.

4. Prague

While this is not an ancient site in the same way as those mentioned above, it is well worth visiting, especially in springtime when the trees in the streets are in full blossom. There is the architecture to wonder at and the Torture Museum for those with a sense of the macabre.

5. Isfahan, Iran

This was once an important city in the Persian Empire and the artisans of the city still produce items which are exquisitely made and designed. The ornate gate at the entrance of the city is worth seeing and tourists will readily appreciate the beauty of this once splendid city.

6. London

London is steeped in history and ancient buildings abound. You can even find the old walls of the capital city if you get bored with the museums, art galleries and historic buildings that are just waiting for you to visit. Wear comfortable shoes!

7. Paris

Paris rivals London and probably has as many interesting museums, art galleries and historic buildings. The Notre Dame Cathedral and the Palace at Versailles are truly magnificent, and if your visit coincides with the Beaujolais Nouveau celebrations, you will have a memorable stay. However it is wise to avoid eating in tourist areas, but try to eat where the locals do, in small bistros which serve hearty traditional dishes.

8. Moscow

A visit to Moscow will amaze and delight with its grandeur. The elaborate onion shaped domes on the skyline are very imposing and make a lasting impression. The Hermitage takes days to go around and all culture vultures will love it. The Russians believe that it is much better than the Louvre, but you would have to judge for yourself. The Russians you will encounter are on the whole keen to meet foreigners and learn about their views and lifestyles. Don’t be surprised if you are taken into homes and asked a lot of questions about how you live and what you think of Russians and Russian history.

9. Mexico City

Mexico City is home to what is probably the best Anthropological Museum in the world and again this takes days to view in its entirety. The treasures of the ancient Mayan, Aztec and Olmec civilizations are incredible. Of course you may want to extend the trip and take in Macchu Pichu; this was not included in this top 10 as it cannot sustain the ravages of more tourism. The sad thing about the ancient ruins of the world is that so many tourists clambering around the ancient sites damage them and it would be a shame if future generations could not visit them because of the destruction we have caused.

10. Rome

Rome or the Eternal City has much to offer the cultural tourist, not just the pantheon and the Coliseum, but a whole host of archaeological sites all over the city and the surrounding area. It should probably have come nearer the top of the list, but again, it depends on personal judgment. As you travel into the city you will see people living around ancient ruins, and only then can you truly appreciate how great the ancient city was. You can also visit Pompeii and Herculaneum while in Rome and these sites will really help you to see the splendour of the old Roman Empire.

I hope with this article, it would give you more interesting places to visit.

Source : http://www.tydpf.org

“Can’t Miss” Tourist Attractions in Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta is an incredibly diverse and fascinating city, and there are many sights and activities to keep you busy during your stay.

And with the world's busiest airport serving this great southern city, hunting down cheap flights to Atlanta isn't all that tough.

Here are five of the top tourist attractions in Atlanta that the whole family can enjoy.

Saving tip: If you plan on visiting all five, you might consider purchasing an Atlanta CityPASS, which grants visitors admission to all five attractions for just $69.

World of Coca Cola : The World of Coca Cola is comprised a large Coke museum (featuring Coke paraphernalia both old and new), a tasting room (where you can sample some of Coke’s most famous products), and a large gift shop where you can purchase Coke-related souvenirs. Prepare for a sugar rush!

CNN Atlanta Studios : News junkies will love touring the global headquarters of CNN. Tickets are available for two different tours : the Morning Express Tour (a tour of the morning show) and the CNN VIP Tour. Detailed information on tour times and ticket prices can be found on the CNN tour website.

High Museum of Art: Atlanta’s world-class High Museum of Art boasts and impressive permanent collection, as well as a variety of well-curated temporary exhibitions throughout the year. On view between September 25, 2011 and January 8, 2012 is The Sculptures of Grainger McKoy, an artist known for his life-like wildlife sculptures. Picasso to Warhol, an exhibition featuring fourteen twentieth-century artists who redefined the very idea of art, is on view between October 15, 2011 and April 29, 2012.

Georgia Aquarium: Kids of all ages will be awed by the sea creatures at the Georgia Aquarium. A variety of tours and educational programs are available (see the Georgia Aquarium’s website for more information).

Atlanta History Center: The Atlanta History Center is comprised of the Atlanta History Museum, Centennial Olympic Games Museum, Swan House, Smith Family Farm, six historic gardens, and the Kenan Research Center. Visit one or all of these sites to learn more about the history and culture(s) of Atlanta, or simply stroll the Center’s stunning grounds.

Source : blog.onetravel.com

7 Tips Money Saving Travel

Where attractive destinations you want to go? Sure, you want some fun in this December. If you're not getting a bonus or under financial pressure, you need to plan ahead. I have tips for you.

Unless you receive a whopper bonus or an unexpected Christmas windfall, for most South Africans ‘kicking back’ and taking a break often comes with a nasty price-tag. Beat the annual holiday splurge that can leave you with little more than a peeling tan and a bad bank balance come January by taking a frugal vacation.

Here's how the smart holiday-maker will be living it up during December without breaking the bank in 2012:

1. House-sitting
This is a great idea if you’d like to earn a few bucks while on holiday. Many people go away each year leaving their homes and pets unattended for long periods of time and need a house-sitter to keep an eye on things. This is a perfect opportunity to enjoy free accommodation and earn some spending money while you’re at it!

2. Swap houses
If a ‘bells and whistles’ holiday is too pricey this year, why not just swap homes with someone instead? It works by trading places with other frugal travellers like you or family and friends for the holiday and is a smart way to enjoy a getaway without forking out a cent for accommodation.

3. Sleep under the stars
Camping is another adventure-filled, cost-effective option for those who are keen to explore the great outdoors. Not only will you save tons of money on accommodation and meals, you’ll also enjoy getting back to basics by cooking potjies on a fire; taking long walks in the forests or beachfronts or reading that holiday novel you’ve been meaning to get around to without any TV interruptions!

4. Try something new closer to home
Talk to family and friends for recommendations and look for destinations that are closer to home and affordable. Often the smaller, unknown spots offer the most unexplored beauty and best hospitality.
So instead of the usual, pricey vacation, why not try something new?

5. Stay-cautious
Although the idea of going away to a new, unexplored holiday destination sounds more fun than staying at home; the reality is it’s often more expensive. Become a tourist in your own city by exploring the local galleries, farmer’s markets, beaches or picnic sites.
Not only will this save you tons of moolah on travelling, accommodation and all the other associated costs of going on holiday; the ideas are endless and can be as easy as camping in your backyard if you so wish.

6. Fly local or go road-tripping
Sometimes flying is cheaper than driving. If you decide to fly local, subscribe to low-cost airlines’ mailing lists, such as kulula.com, for regular special deal offers. Book early, avoid peak travel times and always be on the lookout while comparing prices.
For international trips, take advantage of medical aid. They could also come in handy when booking accommodation as hotels often honour them for free or discounted rooms.
If you’re driving, why not grab a bunch of friends and turn it into a road trip? This way everyone can chip in on the petrol and other expenses along the way. Also ensure your car has a service done upfront to avoid any expensive tow-in costs in case of an accident.

7. Enjoy all the free entertainment on offer!
Sometimes you can spend so much money getting to your destination that you don’t have enough left to enjoy anything while you’re there. Keep an eye out for free activities on offer in your local city or even holiday resort. Why not take the kids to build sandcastles on the beach; enjoy reading a book in the garden or go and have a sunset picnic in a scenic spot?
You could also opt for adventurous nature activities such as bike riding, hiking or swimming. Search your local newspaper for listings and holiday go to guides to spot any free events or activities that could be worth exploring. Once you start looking, you’ll be surprised how much there is to do.

There are many ways to save on holiday. So while you may not be able to go to Europe or afford lavish hotel trips each year; with some smart planning, dedication and research you can still have an enjoyable, relaxed getaway. Being frugal during the rest of the year can also make an immense difference to your holiday budget.

Enjoy your holidays with this new tips. 

Source : women24.com

Top 5 Medical Tourism Destinations

I have read this article relates the top 5 Medical Tourism Destinations.

The modern concept of medical tourism - traveling to foreign countries for lower cost of care. Medical tourism destinations have emerged all over the globe, from Thailand to South Africa, and even European countries such as Hungary. The industry anticipates a great deal of growth in the coming years, from a 2004 estimate of $40 billion to $100 billion by 2012, according to statistics produced by McKinsey & Company and the Confederation of India.

Experts believe that medical tourism will have a positive impact on the economies of destination countries and benefit skilled and unskilled trades alike. The medical tourism phenomenon may also bode well for foreign investors who hold an interest in those countries.

Below, NuWire has selected its Top 5 Medical Tourism Destinations which present the most attractive opportunities for medical tourists and foreign investors alike. These markets were selected based on quality and affordability of care as well as receptiveness to foreign investment.

It should also be noted that medical staffs in the following countries are largely English-speaking, and thus language barriers do not pose a major obstacle for foreign patients.


Panama's economy should benefit from medical tourism

1. Panama

Panama offers significantly lower costs for medical procedures just south of the U.S. border. Costs, on average, are 40 to 70 percent lower than costs of similar surgeries in the U.S., according to a report on medical tourism published by the National Center for Policy Analysis (NCPA) last November. Although costs for medical procedures are generally higher compared to those of Southeast Asian countries, travel costs from the U.S. to Panama are considerably lower.

Panama is a relatively “Americanized” country and an attractive place for both regular tourists and medical tourists to visit. Panama City is a relatively safe and modern destination; the U.S. dollar is the country’s official currency, and many of the physicians are U.S.-trained. Consequently, U.S. patients are less likely to experience a high degree of culture shock when seeking care in Panama.

Medical tourism should have a positive impact on Panama’s economy, which relies heavily on the services industry. The medical tourism industry can also help to utilize Panama’s labor force of approximately 1.5 million people, which has a surplus of unskilled labor, according to the CIA World Factbook.

In general, Panama has shown commitment to improving its economy in fostering trade relations with the U.S. Rather than participate in Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA), Panama independently negotiated a free trade agreement with the US in December 2006.

Finally, Panama presents a wide range of opportunities for real estate investments as well as investments in the service and tourism-related industries. For more information on investing in Panama, please read our previous article, Investment Opportunities in Panama.

2. Brazil

Brazil has become an international mecca for cosmetic and plastic surgeries. Its road to fame in medical tourism began with Ivo Pitanguy, the world-renowned plastic surgeon who opened a clinic outside of Rio de Janeiro more than 40 years ago. It is the second largest market for plastic surgery in the world, behind the U.S., which is most likely attributed to the high quality of service and low cost compared to other countries.

Brazil is also becoming a medical tourism destination for other types of procedures in its own right. In terms of general medical treatment, Brazil has the most hospitals of any country outside the U.S. that are fully accredited by the Joint Commission (JCAHO), the largest U.S. hospital accreditation organization, according to the website for medical tourism service company MedRetreat.

São Paulo, the largest city in Brazil, is considered to have some of the world’s best equipped hospitals, advanced evaluation procedures and highly skilled physicians, according to BrazilMedicalTourism.com, a website hosted by Sphera Internacional.

Brazil can be reached from most U.S. cities within eight to 12 hours by plane.

Brazil is predicted to become one of the world’s most dominant economies in the future, according to the BRIC theory proposed by Jim O’Neill of Goldman Sachs. Furthermore, Brazil’s property sector appears favorable for foreign investment. For more information about investing in Brazil real estate, please read our previous article,Brazil Property Investment: More Than Just the Amazon.


Malaysia's capital city is metropolitan and modern

3. Malaysia

Malaysia’s medical tourism industry has seen staggering growth over recent years. The number of foreigners seeking healthcare services in Malaysia has grown from 75,210 patients in 2001 to 296,687 patients in 2006, according to the Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia. The large volume of patients in 2006 brought approximately $59 million in revenue. The Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia projected that the number of foreigners seeking medical treatment in Malaysia will continue to grow at a rate of 30 percent a year until 2010.

Malaysia offers a wide array of medical procedure - including dental, cosmetic and cardiac surgeries - at significantly lower costs than in the U.S. In Malaysia, cardiac bypass surgery, for example, costs around $6,000 to $7,000, according to a publication released by Tourism Malaysia last November.

Malaysia attracts medical tourists and investors alike for its favorable exchange rate, political and economic stability and high rate of literacy. The country also offers a comprehensive network of hospitals and clinics, with 88.5 percent of the population living within three miles of a public health clinic or private practitioner, according to statistics quoted on Hospitals-Malaysia.org.

In addition, Malaysia’s real estate market offers the potential for significant returns.

4. Costa Rica

Costa Rica, like Panama, has become a popular destination among North American patients for inexpensive, high-quality medical care “without a trans-Pacific flight,” according to experts quoted in the University of Delaware’sUDaily news in 2005. The convenience of travel has made the country a particularly attractive destination for American patients, as Costa Rica can be reached from most U.S. cities within seven to 10 hours of flight time.

Around 150,000 foreigners sought care in Costa Rica in 2006, according to the NCPA report published last November. Often, foreign patients travel to Costa Rica for the low costs of dental work and plastic surgery. Costs of procedures in Costa Rica are generally less than half the cost of the same procedures in the U.S.; the price of a dental veneer, for instance, is approximately $350 in Panama, whereas the same procedure is $1,250 in the U.S., according to the website for Medical Tourism of Costa Rica, a medical travel service company.

The country’s political stability, high education levels and the fiscal incentives offered in free-trade zones have attracted substantial foreign investment, according to the CIA World Factbook. The Costa Rican government seems to be taking steps to further encourage foreign investment in the country; in October 2007, a national referendum voted in favor of the U.S.-Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA). Successful implementation by March 2008 should result in an improved investment climate.


Population, education and business are all booming in India

5. India

India, arguably, has the lowest cost and highest quality of all medical tourism destinations , according to a report on medical tourism published by the National Center for Policy Analysis (NCPA) last November. Several hospitals are accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI) and utilize highly trained physicians and cutting-edge medical technology. But India comes in fifth on our list rather than first because of the amount of restrictions placed on foreign investors and the distance Americans must travel to get there.

The medical tourism sector is experiencing rapid growth, with approximately 500,000 foreign patients travelling to India for medical care in 2005, compared to an estimated 150,000 patients in 2002, according to experts quoted in the University of Delaware’s UDaily news. In monetary terms, experts estimate that medical tourism could bring India as much as $2.2 billion per year by 2012.

India has become a well-known medical tourist destination for cardiac and orthopedic procedures. In the past, American patients have travelled to India for procedures such as Birmingham hip resurfacing, which was previously unavailable in the U.S., and has only recently been FDA approved. Medical tourists also journey to India for procedures that carry high costs in the U.S.; for example, Apollo Hospital in New Delhi charges $4,000 for cardiac surgery, while the same procedure would cost about $30,000 in the U.S.

Although India has taken significant steps to becoming the “global health destination” envisioned by Finance Minister Jaswant Sing in the country’s 2003 budget, the country still faces problems such as overpopulation, environmental degradation, poverty and ethnic and religious strife. Such problems may dissuade some patients from traveling to India to receive healthcare.

What the Indian government has in store for foreign investors also remains uncertain. Although the government has reduced controls on foreign trade and investment, incremental progress on economic reforms still hinder foreign access to India's vast and growing market, according to the CIA World Factbook.

Now we know a few places to to go for Medical (Medical Tourism Destinations).

Source : nuwireinvestor.com

Greenwich is in top 10 travel hotspots for 2012

Top 10 travel hotspots for 2012. 

A WORLD-RENOWNED travel guide has named Greenwich as one of the top ten global destinations for 2012.

Frommer’s called Greenwich “one of London’s most historic areas”, with the “city’s lifeblood, the River Thames... allowing Greenwich to reinvent itself continually.”

It is the only UK destination on the list, highlighted by the guide for its maritime Unesco heritage site, naval history and baroque facades by legendary architects like Wren, Hawksmoor, and Vanburgh.

Along with established sites like the Old Royal Naval College and Observatory, the area is also praised for the world class views from Greenwich Park across to the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf.

Author Mark Henshall writes: “In 2012 Greenwich celebrates the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, Olympic events and even gets London's brand-new cable car.

“But to get a real feel of the place just jump on a Thames Clipper boat and just go with the flow.”

The area is known internationally as the home of Greenwich Mean Time, one of a number of tourist attractions.

Before, during and after the Games, held between July and September, a cultural festival will also be held on the borough’s streets, including Greenwich Festivals, which will be celebrating the cultural vibrancy of the area.

Greenwich Council is hoping for a boost in tourist numbers after making the list, with tourism being worth £744m to the local economy, and a source of around 8,000 jobs.

Leader of Greenwich Council Councillor Chris Roberts said: “It is very gratifying that Frommer’s have this year chosen to highlight Greenwich as a top-ten attraction. It is a fitting time to take centre stage.

“Travellers from across the globe should know that in Greenwich they will receive a warm welcome, as they discover the richness and diversity of our visitor attractions.”

Already live in Greenwich? Frommer’s recommends these…

- Bay of Fundy, Canada.

“One of the world’s most dynamic and dramatic coastlines”

- Beirut, Lebanon.

“An enticing combination of French designer boutiques, private beach clubs, cutting-edge galleries and magnificent third-century mosaics”

- Chongqing, China.

“Offers a captivating glimpse of modern China - the good, the gritty and the glamorous.”

- Curacao, Caribbean Sea.

“Curvaceous white beaches, cerulean seas, and a coral reef brimming with marine life”

- Fukuoka, Japan.

“A model green city”

- Ghana.

“Embraces traditional and contemporary cultures as well as beaches and safaris.”

- Girona, Spain.

“Packs a cultural punch that is the envy of many a larger destination.”

- Kansas City, USA.

“New hot spots join a long list of terrific Kansas City attractions.”

- Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico.

“Sublime beaches, a unique cuisine, joyous fiestas and exotic wildlife.”

Hope this info is useful for us for travel dan holidays.

By James Crouch

London's East End hot pick for investment

London's East End is hot pick for investment as the borough ranked top 10 destination of 2012, report Property Frontiers.

Investors considering buying in the Capital should take a second look at the Royal Borough of Greenwich in the East End of London, ranked by Frommers, the worldwide travel guide, as one of the Top 10 Destinations of 2012.

Sitting alongside exotic global destinations such as Ghana and Beirut, Greenwich, often considered to be the gateway to the East End of London, is set to enjoy its time in the limelight even further next year due to the numerous Summer Olympic events happening right on its doorstep.

Ray Withers, Director of investment experts, Property Frontiers, comments:

"We are delighted to see that the East End of London and indeed Greenwich receive internal accolade for its touristic appeals.

"The area as a whole has developed considerably in the last two decades with the establishment of the Canary Wharf financial centre, revitalisation of the Docklands, expansion of London City Airport and the Olympic Site having a very positive impact.

"It is certainly one area which holds a great deal of interest both to us and our clients."

An up and coming tourist destination within London, if you get under the skin of Greenwich it is easy to see why this 'little green patch' of London has been given such an exciting accolade.

Greenwich was the main naval centre of England in the 18th and 19th centuries and is steeped in history, to the point that it is now an UNESCO heritage site.

The architecture is awash with remarkable baroque facades by architects such as Wren, Hawksmoor, and Vanburgh as well as fine cuisine, interesting shops and a wonderful covered market which sets this area apart from many others in London.

Home to the largest leisure arena in Europe, the O2, Greenwich will also be the place to alight the new Emirates Air Line cable car which is being installed across the River Thames, expected to take thousands of tourists to and from the Olympic Park at Stratford.

With already high levels of tourism to the area and Frommers ear-marking the borough as a top place to visit in 2012, demand for accommodation is also set to rise, creating a lucrative opportunity for savvy property investors.

Withers explains:

"If you want to make a property investment which has a winning formula not just for today but for the future then you need to select an area that is just about to hit the 'big time' and where there is long term growth forecast.

"Rising tourism and a shortage of accommodation makes the East End of London the perfect investment environment."

By MILLIE DYSON
Source : myintroducer.com

Golden Triangle Tour Ideal for Family Holidays in India

If India is your destination during this holidays, lets read this article.

Golden triangle is one of the most popular circuits of North India. It is a complete family holiday option in India and offers all for that the country recognized.  Several wonderful heritage sites, expedition of rich culture and life style of local people really capture the heart of most of the travelers on their golden triangle trip. So if you are looking for a family spot in India embark on this specially designed tourist circuit. Generally it covers three wonderful tourist spots as national capital Delhi, City of Taj Mahal that is Agra and the Pink City, Jaipur.

The circuit offers you a wonderful chance to travel around some most important historical sites of the country. In Delhi that is also the starting point of most of the golden triangle trips, you will visit several wonderful heritage monuments, new developed structures, government building, foreign embassies, temples, mosques, gurudawaras (worship place for Sikhs) and much more. The mix of Indian culture with western modernity also grabs the attention of several cultural enthusiasts on sightseeing. The city is home of quite a few tourist attractions, some must see of them are Red Fort, India Gate, Akshardham Temple, Lotus Temple and Qutub Minar.

Agra is the second destination of golden triangle. The city is the home of most poplar Indian heritage monument that is Taj Mahal, a epitome of true love standing form more than three and half centuries. The wonderful Taj Mahal is sited at the bank of holy Yamuna River. The building receives millions of travelers every year and one of the most visited heritage sites of India. Besides Taj Mahal, the city offers lot more to explore including City Fort, Itmad-ud-Daulah tomb also famous as baby Taj, Ram Bagh, China Tomb and   Fatehpur Sikri.

Jaipur is the third destination of Golden Triangle Tour. It is the capital city of Rajasthan and home of some most wonderful forts and palaces. Amber Fort, City Palace Complex, Hawa Mahal, Jantar-Mantar observatory, Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort and Sheesh Mahal are the most popular tourist attractions of the city.

All these three cities are also bursting with wide rage of tourism facilities. You will find medium range to most luxury accommodation facilities and eateries very easily. With several remarkable tourist attractions and world class tourist facilities a well planned golden triangle is the ideal option for Family Holidays in India. You can also visit several popular tourist destinations Rajasthan with golden triangle circuit like Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Ajmer, Pushkar, Jodhpur, Bikaner, etc. Several reputed Travel Agents in Rajasthan offering excellent combined tour packages for golden triangle with popular tourist attractions of Rajasthan. You can also take help from them to plan your visit. They can plan your trip according vacation and budget and make your journey more pleasing and comfortable with their excellent services and assistance.

Source : www.swagattours.com

Autumn holiday...Where to go?

Where destinations to go for travel, holidays when autumn is coming?

In Europe, the middle of october and the beginning of november, is the perfect time to visit the Mediterranean areas because the popular destinations, the sunny weather and the warm temperatures. It is the perfect time to visit the magnificent southern Italy, Andalusia and the towns in south of Spain. Also the Greek islands are lovely travel destinations.

The monsoon season is almost over in Asia and so the tourist season is beginning. India is a perfect autumn destination although in some areas the weather is cool or even cold.  For a cultural vacation you can go in in Kathmandu and its surrounding area.

In Africa it’s the perfect time to visit the Desert in Tunisia, but also Madagascar and South Africa. An attractive destination is Egypt with its pyramids and  a luxurious Nile cruise which will take you back in time accompanied by warm temperatures.

Georgia, Atlanta or Dallas in Texas have an ideal climate at this time. Phoenix in the heart of the desert, in the Salt River Valley, also has temperatures that are closer to that of summertime. If you want to visit Argentina you must know that the weather is very dry and hot in this season, but it’s the perfect time to see the nature and the wildlife in Atlantic Patagonia.

Hope this destinations for holidays in autumn session can give u all  a romantic honeymoon place or choice for travelling with your family. 

Top Travel Destinations In New Survey

A survey of more than 11,000 travelers from 23 countries has named the United States the world's most desirable destination, beating out the France, Italy, Japan and the United Kingdom.

One in five respondents to the survey said they were planning a leisure trip to the US in the coming two years. Only 15 percent of travelers said they'd be going to France or Italy by the end of 2013. The poll was conducted by Visa.

One surprising finding was the resurgence of Japan, where many feared a tourism downturn after the March earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster.

Particularly for travelers in the Asia Pacific region, Japan remains the destination of choice. (It's notably very popular with Chinese tourists, a growing group.)

Still, it's the United States that remains at the top of most tourists wish-lists. The biggest fans? Neighboring Canada and Mexico, where nearly half of all travelers are planning a trip to the US in the next two years.

source : huffingtonpost.com