The Most Popular Places Abroad To Kick Off Summer
AAA predicts that approximately 39.2 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home this upcoming Memorial Day Weekend from May 26-30 and while the vast majority will travel domestically many will venture overseas as more and more countries relax COVID-19-related travel restrictions more than two years into the pandemic. From Canada to Europe and the Caribbean in between, the places travelers are seeking are diverse but a handful keeps popping up more than the rest. The latest AAA booking data released this month reveals the 10 international destinations that passport-carrying Americans are most interested in spending the unofficial start of summer.
10. Calgary, Canada
One of two Canadian cities to make the top 10 international destinations for Memorial Day Weekend 2022, Calgary is an ideal escape for a long weekend as visitors can secure nonstop flights from both the East and West Coasts and look forward to a wide range of attractions and activities such as the Instagram-worthy Peace Bridge, biking, river rafting, fly fishing and so much more.
9. Nassau, Bahamas
When it comes to the Caribbean, the popular cruise port of Nassau in the Bahamas is drawing lots of attention from travelers ahead of the summer despite still requiring COVID-19 testing. The sprawling Atlantis Paradise Island and Baha Mar resorts are certain to be among the top hangouts for visitors to this Bahamian gem come Memorial Day Weekend.
8. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is one of a whopping six European cities to crack AAA Travel’s top 10 this year and the capital of Catalonia truly has it all, from gorgeous beaches to charming parks and lively public squares where visitors can dine, shop and immerse themselves in the destination’s rich history and local culture.
7. Amsterdam, Netherlands
A dream destination for artists and those who appreciate it, Amsterdam is also garnering plenty of interest this Memorial Day. The Dutch capital’s intricate canal system and unparalleled character alone are reason enough to visit but world-class attractions like the Rijksmuseum, Rembrandt House, Van Gogh Museum and Royal Palace help to put it over the top.
6. Cancun, Mexico
Cancun continues to be among the easiest places to visit in the Caribbean amid the COVID-19 pandemic as travelers don’t have to worry about testing, vaccination or quarantine requirements. Additionally, convenient flight options from the U.S. and a plethora of affordable beachfront all-inclusive resorts make it a standout locale for Americans leaving the country for Memorial Day Weekend.
5. London, UK
The U.K. was among the world’s most visited countries prior to the pandemic and that’s unlikely to change based on the latest AAA booking data for Memorial Day travel. The destination dropped all remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions in mid-March and flights to London have long since resumed, making this hub for history and culture an easy choice for many travelers.
4. Rome, Italy
Rome is yet another coveted European destination that’s arguably unrivaled in its historical and cultural significance. Iconic attractions and experiences like the Vatican, Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps draw visitors from all over the globe and that trend is poised to continue on Memorial Day Weekend.
3. Paris, France
The City of Light is also a sought-after overseas destination this Memorial Day. While Paris has something for everyone, including history buffs, foodies, culture seekers, art enthusiasts and even sports fans—the French Open tennis championships run May 22 through June 5—it’s surprisingly not the most popular destination in Europe this year.
2. Dublin, Ireland
Ireland’s capital city of Dublin is the top Memorial Day Weekend destination in Europe for 2022, according to AAA booking data. Ireland dropped all COVID-19-related entry restrictions at the start of spring, giving travelers added incentive to tour the epic cathedrals, castles and pubs of Dublin and perhaps pay a visit to the Guinness Storehouse, which was named the number one tourist attraction in all of Europe at the World Travel Awards in 2015.
1. Vancouver, Canada
While Europe’s appeal is undeniable, many travelers have their sights set on America’s neighbor to the north, specifically Vancouver on Canada’s West Coast. In addition to sharing a time zone with several U.S. states, Vancouver offers a variety of parks, gardens and inviting outdoor spaces perfect for hiking, biking, kayaking and much more. The city also boasts no shortage of traditional attractions like the Vancouver Aquarium and Vancouver Art Gallery.