The Cheapflights Global Rising Stars Report compares flight searches from the first six months of 2011 against those from the same time period of 2010 to highlight 25 of the most popular up-and-coming destinations for travelers flying from the United States.
The global list is a ranking of the five destinations with the biggest percent increase within five key geographic regions: Europe, Asia/Oceania, North America, South America and Africa.
Some destinations to make the list, like enchanting Tallinn, came as no surprise to us here at Cheapflights – while others seemed a little less obvious. Highlighted below are the top five below. Check out the complete Rising Stars Report for a full rundown of newly popular destinations.
Tallinn, Estonia (354% increase)
Apparently American travelers have caught wind of Tallinn’s preserved history and unparalleled charm and are finally – and understandably – flocking in droves to the Estonian capital. Like out of a medieval fairytale, the preserved Old City is surrounded by walls that visitors can climb for panoramic views of the town. And though the European gem has held onto its medieval roots well – it was deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 – it’s the combination of old v. new that has charmed tourists. Estonia joined the eurozone in early 2011, so travel planners can bank on spending a few euros on high-end shopping, film and music festivals and modern restaurants in the list topper.
Wroclaw, Poland (349% increase)
Like with Tallinn, it was only a matter of time before Americans discovered Wroclaw. The Polish city has, also like Tallinn, endured a rocky and sometimes violent history, emerging as an alluring, lively city. Visitors to the central European town should begin their walking exploration at the Rynek, or town square, and admire the 14th-century Town Hall and other architectural wonders. Culture and nightlife thrive in Wroclaw, where restaurants, bars and pubs set the scene for locals and tourists alike. Plus, having not made the cut to join the euro, Poland still holds onto its devalued currency. Go soon before the tourist counts – and prices – grow.
George, South Africa (169% increase)
George is a popular South African destination in itself, but it’s also the gateway to the Garden Route, a coastal drive that stretches along the Western Cape and draws international visitors annually. The World Cup in 2010 raised South Africa’s profile for Americans, and the staggering increase in flight searches to George is evidence. Located between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, it boasts beautiful terrain for hiking, surfing and other outdoor activities.
Thessaloniki, Greece (128% increase)
More and more Westerners are planning vacations to Greece as the Hellenic nation’s economy continues to collapse. It’s no wonder that the seafront city of Thessaloniki has risen in popularity; its Byzantine architecture and thousands of years of history make it a spectacular spot to vacation. Quaint shops and hip boutiques merge on cobblestone streets, laying a historic path for visitors to stroll along. And though it looks like Greece’s financial instability will continue for a while, Thessaloniki is worth visiting now.
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (114% increase)
While travel to Saudi Arabia still comes with plenty of warnings from the State Department, Riyadh has seen some improvements in terms of security concerns. The capital city of the oil rich but conservative kingdom is seeing a relative uptick in interest from those willing to travel with caution. Are they heading to the Arab Peninsula to visit the holy sites of Mecca and Medina, to capitalize on the business environment, to reunite with family or to be an intrepid tourist? No matter the cause, the increase is there.
Read the full report at Cheapflights.com.
(Images: Dennis Jarvis,)
