We all love bringing back captivating travel stories—some for ourselves, others to share with those who couldn’t join the journey. Imagine recounting how your plane soared just meters above sunbathers before landing near a Caribbean beach, or how an airport sprawls larger than the city of Mumbai. These may sound like tall tales, but they’re absolutely true. Here are six extraordinary airports from around the world that not only push the boundaries of engineering but also stand as inspiring destinations in their own right.

1. Princess Juliana International Airport, Saint Martin

Located on the Caribbean island of Saint Martin, this airport is renowned for its jaw-dropping runway approach over Maho Beach. This airport probably has one of the most unique landings in the world. The runway starts just meters from the shoreline, forcing large aircraft to fly as low as 10-20 meters above beachgoers. Expect to see crowds gathering daily to witness landings and takeoffs.

2. Juancho E Yrausquin Airport, Saba

This airport has the world’s shortest commercial runway, measuring just 400 meters. Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport has steep cliffs on one side and the ocean on the other, and the runway leaves no margin for error, making it also one of the most dangerous and technically challenging airports for pilots. The setting is dramatic and the experience simply breathtaking. Only small propeller aircraft can land here.

3. Barra Airport, Scotland

Located on the remote island of Barra in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides, this is the only airport in the world where commercial flights land directly on a sandy beach. The beach is the runway! Interestingly, as all beaches do, this also also gets submerged twice daily by high tides. This means, flight schedules go as per tidal cycle. The airport primarily serves small propeller planes connecting Barra to mainland Scotland.

4. Williams Field, Antarctica

Williams Field, or Willy Field, is an extraordinary airport located near McMurdo Station in Antarctica. The airport is a critical lifeline for scientific research in one of the harshest environments on Earth. Williams Field airport’s runways are constructed entirely of compacted snow and ice, meticulously maintained to support heavy aircraft. What’s extreme about this airport, you ask? Imagine operating in temperatures that often drop below -30 degrees Celsius and 24-hour daylight or darkness.

5. Svalbard Airport, Longyearbyen, Norway

Svalbard Airport is just 1,300 kilometers from the North Pole, and holds the title of the world’s northernmost airport with scheduled commercial flights. The airport is built on permafrost, and is built to withstand extreme Arctic conditions, including polar nights.

6. King Fahd International Airport, Saudi Arabia

Located in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, King Fahd International Airport is the largest airport in the world by land area, sprawling across 78,000 hectares. The airport is larger than the city of Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. One of the most impressive features is the exclusive Royal Terminal, a luxurious facility reserved for the Saudi royal family, visiting dignitaries, and high-profile guests. King Fahd International Airport also has a mosque, big enough to accommodate 2,000 worshippers.

International travel didn’t just bounce back in 2024, it boomed in several parts of the world, and there are abundant reasons. According to the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), many countries saw such strong tourism demand that they exceeded visitor arrival numbers from 2019.

As per the latest World Tourism Barometer from UN Tourism, an estimated 1.4 billion international trips were recorded in 2024, marking a near full recovery of pre-pandemic levels at 99%. This was 11% higher than 2023, equal to 140 million additional travelers, fueled by pent-up demand, strong performance from major source markets, and the rebound of destinations across Asia and the Pacific.

The momentum is expected to carry into 2025, with strong demand continuing to power the socio-economic growth of both established and emerging destinations. At the same time, the sector faces a clear responsibility: to transform tourism with people and the planet at its core.

Here are 10 standout nations where growth was not just recovery, it was exponential.

Qatar (+137%)

This destination saw tourist arrivals increase to more than double as compared to 2019. The boost is linked to massive events and infrastructure development, leading to the most dramatic resurgence among all reported countries. From the futuristic skyline of Doha to desert safaris and luxury beach resorts, this place also served as a major stopover hub.

El Salvador (+81%)

El Salvador managed to welcome 81% more tourists than in 2019, which is also an extraordinary leap for a country as small as this. Surfers flock to its Pacific coast for world-class waves, while history buffs are there to explore places like Mayan ruins, and more. Also, its compact size makes it easy to combine culture, adventure, and natural beauty in one trip.

Albania (+80%)

This scenic Balkan gem witnessed a growth of tourist arrivals of around 80% above pre-pandemic levels. Do visit the pristine Albanian Riviera which has been drawing comparisons with Greece and Croatia, but with fewer crowds.

Saudi Arabia (+69%)

Saudi Arabia’s arrivals soared 69% above 2019 which was boosted by cultural festivals, new visa policies, and its evolving global image. Travellers have heritage sites like AlUla and Diriyah to explore, alongside the futuristic megacity projects rising in the desert.

Ethiopia (+40%)

Ethiopia’s tourism sector rebounded strongly, which witnessed rising international arrivals by 40% over pre-pandemic totals. There are rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the wildlife of the Simien Mountains, people have unmatched options to explore when here.

Morocco (+35%)v

Known for its rich history and diverse landscapes, Morocco attracted 35% more tourists than it did in 2019. Marrakesh and Fez still dazzle with their souks and medinas, while the Sahara beckons with camel treks and starlit camps. Adventure travelers are also turning to the Atlas Mountains for trekking and skiing.

Colombia (+37%)

Colombia embraced tourism with gusto, registering a 37% increase over its 2019 visitor count. Medellín and Bogotá have transformed into creative, vibrant cities, while Cartagena’s colonial charm continues to lure international travelers. The country’s biodiversity also makes it a paradise for birdwatching and eco-tourism.

Andorra (+35%)

This Pyrenean microstate in Europe saw arrivals climb 35% above pre-pandemic levels, showing resilience despite its size. Known for skiing and duty-free shopping, it’s a winter wonderland for Europeans. In summer, its mountain trails attract hikers seeking high-altitude escapes.

Malta (+29%)

The Mediterranean island country of Malta welcomed 29% more international visitors than in 2019. Its sun-soaked beaches, baroque architecture, and Game of Thrones filming sites draw culture lovers and beachgoers alike. The island also shines with festivals celebrating food, history, and music.

Serbia (+29%)

Serbia charted a 29% rise in tourism arrivals compared to 2019 figures, boosting its presence on the global travel map. Belgrade’s nightlife and riverfront scene make it a rising European capital of cool. Meanwhile, Novi Sad and the Danube region offer cultural festivals and scenic wine routes.

But with so many destinations to choose from, where should your travel dollars go? Let’s count down the most popular countries that had tourists flocking to their borders last year.

If your suitcase has been giving you sad eyes from the closet corner, 2025 might be the year to dust it off!

As travellers around the globe scramble to make up for lost time, airports are buzzing like beehives, and famous landmarks are playing host to selfie sticks once again.

The World Economic Outlook Report shows global tourism grew by 2.9% in 2024, proving that humans simply cannot be kept from exploring new places and eating questionable street food in foreign countries.

Most Visited Countries in the World

But with so many destinations to choose from, where should your travel dollars go? Let’s count down the most popular countries that had tourists flocking to their borders last year. These hot spots combine incredible attractions with the comfort of well-developed tourism infrastructure – perfect for your 2025 adventure!

1. France (89.4 million visitors)

The global champion of tourism continues its reign with nearly 90 million visitors annually. France offers an unbeatable mix of culture, cuisine, and captivating landscapes that keep travellers coming back for more.

Paris alone draws millions with its iconic Eiffel Tower, which lights up with a dazzling display every hour after sunset. The Louvre Museum houses the mysterious Mona Lisa, which appears much smaller in person than most tourists expect. Beyond the capital, the French Riviera beckons with glamorous beaches, while the Loire Valley charms visitors with more than 300 fairytale castles.

French cuisine lives up to its reputation, with each region offering special dishes. From buttery croissants at corner bakeries to hearty cassoulet in the south, food becomes an adventure of its own.

The country maintains excellent transportation systems with high-speed TGV trains connecting major cities, making it easy to see several regions in one trip.

2. Spain (83.7 million visitors)

Spain welcomed 83.7 million sun-seekers and culture enthusiasts last year, combining warm hospitality with diverse attractions. The country’s winning formula mixes golden beaches, vibrant cities, and rich historical sites.

Barcelona captivates visitors with Antoni Gaudí’s fantastical architecture, including the still-unfinished Sagrada Família basilica, scheduled for completion in 2026. Madrid boasts world-class museums like the Prado, home to masterpieces by Goya and Velázquez.

Spanish food culture centres around social dining experiences. Tapas bars invite visitors to sample small plates of patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, and fresh seafood. The country produces excellent wines, with regions like Rioja and Ribera del Duero gaining international acclaim.

Festivals add colour and excitement throughout the year. The Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, La Tomatina tomato fight in Buñol, and countless local fiestas showcase Spain’s passion for celebration.

3. United States (79.3 million visitors)

The United States attracted 79.3 million international visitors with its incredible diversity of landscapes, cities, and experiences. From iconic urban centres to breathtaking national parks, America offers something for every type of traveller.

New York City remains a top draw with its towering skyline, world-class shopping, and Broadway shows. Visitors flock to Times Square’s neon lights and climb to the top of the Empire State Building for panoramic views. On the opposite coast, Los Angeles beckons with Hollywood glamour, while San Francisco charms with its hilly streets and Golden Gate Bridge.

Theme parks contribute significantly to American tourism, with Walt Disney World in Florida and Disneyland in California creating magical experiences for families. Las Vegas dazzles with its extravagant hotels and entertainment options, attracting visitors seeking excitement.

American food goes far beyond fast food chains, with regional specialities like New Orleans’ Cajun cuisine, Texas barbecue, and New England’s fresh seafood delighting culinary travellers.

4. China (65.7 million visitors)

China welcomed 65.7 million visitors in 2024, showing an impressive growth of 4.5% from the previous year. The world’s most populous country combines ancient wonders with futuristic cities.

The Great Wall stretches over 13,000 miles across northern China, with restored sections near Beijing providing the most accessible visiting experience. The Forbidden City, home to 24 Chinese emperors, contains 9,999 rooms filled with treasures.

Chinese cuisine varies dramatically by region, from Sichuan’s fiery dishes to Cantonese dim sum. Street food markets offer adventurous eaters the chance to sample local specialities, while tea houses provide peaceful settings to experience China’s ancient tea culture.

5. Italy (64.5 million visitors)

Italy welcomed 64.5 million visitors drawn to its perfect combination of art, history, food, and natural beauty. Few countries pack so many world-famous sites into such a compact area.

Rome stands as an open-air museum where ancient ruins like the Colosseum and Forum exist alongside Renaissance masterpieces and modern city life. The Vatican Museums house art collections gathered by popes over centuries, culminating in Michelangelo’s breathtaking Sistine Chapel ceiling.

Venice captivates with its unique canal network and ornate architecture, though visitors should be prepared for crowds during peak seasons. Italian cuisine serves as a major attraction itself, with each region offering distinctive specialities. Travellers can enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizza, fresh pasta in Bologna, and creamy gelato everywhere.

6. Turkey (51.2 million visitors)

Turkey recorded impressive growth with 51.2 million visitors in 2024, up 11.9% from the previous year. This nation, bridging Europe and Asia, offers an intriguing blend of cultures, histories, and landscapes.

Istanbul captivates visitors with landmarks reflecting its unique position. The Hagia Sophia, once a church, then a mosque, now a museum, stands as a testament to the city’s layered history. The Blue Mosque impresses with its cascading domes and six slender minarets.

Cappadocia’s surreal landscape of “fairy chimneys” and cave dwellings draws photographers and adventure seekers, especially for its famous hot air balloon rides at sunrise.

Turkey’s coastline along the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas boasts beautiful beaches and resort towns like Antalya and Bodrum. Turkish cuisine entices with kebabs, mezes (appetisers), and sweet baklava, while Turkish baths offer relaxing cultural experiences.

7. Mexico (45 million visitors)

Mexico attracted 45 million visitors in 2024, showing a robust growth of 9%. The country combines pre-Hispanic history, colonial charm, and natural beauty with famous hospitality.

The Riviera Maya, along the Yucatán Peninsula, draws beach lovers to its white sands and clear waters. Mexico City surprises first-time visitors with its sophistication, world-class museums, and vibrant neighbourhoods. The historic centre contains both Spanish colonial buildings and Aztec ruins, reflecting the country’s complex heritage.

Mexican cuisine, recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, goes far beyond tacos and guacamole. Colourful festivals demonstrate Mexico’s passionate culture, with Day of the Dead celebrations being particularly significant as families honour deceased loved ones with marigold-decorated altars and vibrant parades.

8. Thailand (39.8 million visitors)

Thailand welcomed 39.8 million visitors seeking its unique combination of fascinating culture, beautiful beaches, and famous hospitality. The “Land of Smiles” offers exceptional value for travellers.

Bangkok presents a fascinating contrast of ancient and modern. The Grand Palace complex houses the revered Emerald Buddha, while nearby, ornate temples (wats) showcase detailed craftsmanship. The capital’s famous street food scene allows visitors to sample authentic Thai cuisine for just a few dollars!

Phuket offers developed resorts with plenty of activities, while smaller islands like Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta provide more relaxed settings. The limestone karsts of Phang Nga Bay create dramatic seascapes featured in many films.

Thai cuisine’s balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavours has earned global popularity. Cooking classes allow visitors to learn the secrets behind dishes like pad Thai, green curry, and tom yum soup.

9. Germany (39.6 million visitors)

Germany attracted 39.6 million visitors with its efficient infrastructure, historic cities, and cultural offerings. The country successfully balances its historical legacy with forward-thinking modernity.

Berlin stands as one of Europe’s most dynamic capitals, where sections of the Berlin Wall now serve as an open-air gallery. The city’s Museum Island houses five world-class museums in close proximity. Munich counterbalances with Bavarian tradition, especially during Oktoberfest, when millions gather to enjoy beer, pretzels, and brass band music.

Fairytale castles dot the German landscape, with Neuschwanstein Castle inspiring Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. The Romantic Road tourist route connects charming medieval towns like Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where well-preserved city walls and half-timbered houses create postcard-perfect scenes.

German Christmas markets transform city squares into magical wonderlands during December, with twinkling lights, handcrafted ornaments, and the aroma of mulled wine drawing winter visitors.

10. United Kingdom (39.4 million visitors)

The United Kingdom welcomed 39.4 million visitors to its shores in 2024. This island nation packs remarkable diversity into a relatively small area, from historic cities to rolling countryside.

London remains the primary draw, where centuries of history coexist with cutting-edge trends. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, explore the Tower of London’s dark history, and view world treasures at the British Museum – all for free. The city’s theatre scene in the West End rivals Broadway for quality and variety.

Edinburgh charms with its medieval Old Town and Georgian New Town, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Literary fans trace the footsteps of favourite authors through Jane Austen’s Bath, Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon, and the Brontë sisters’ Yorkshire moors.

Bottom Line

There you have it – the world’s most popular destinations are practically begging for your visit in 2025! Whether you’re drawn to France’s sophisticated sidewalk cafés, Thailand’s tropical beaches, or Germany’s fairy-tale castles, these 10 countries have spent decades perfecting their welcome mats.

So charge your camera, practice your terrible attempts at local languages, and get ready to join the millions making these countries the most visited spots on our planet. Bon voyage, safe travels, and don’t forget to write – or at least post excessively on social media so we can all be properly jealous!

Here is a list of tourist destinations around the world named after animals. These places are notable for their unique names inspired by local fauna or historical associations with animals, often offering fascinating wildlife or cultural experiences. Some of these places have inspired scientific research, some host cute and furry residents, and some have fearsome prehistoric beings. Come, check out these places, and maybe bookmark them for your next travel adventures.

Chidiya Tapu, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Chidiya Tapu, like its name suggests, is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting diverse birdlife and stunning sunset views. It is a great addition to your beachy holiday in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The sunset and sunrise scenes are simply unforgettable, and you WILL come back with stunning photos of sunsets, birds and forests.

Kangaroo Island, South Australia, Australia

This island is named after the unique kangaroos that inhabit it, which differ slightly from mainland species. This island is a premier wildlife destination in Australia. Visitors can observe kangaroos, koalas, and other native animals in their natural habitat, alongside beautiful beaches and unique landscapes.

Penguin Island, Western Australia, Australia

This island is known for its significant population of little penguins, making it one of Australia’s top wildlife destinations. Tourists can enjoy penguin sightings, especially at dusk, along with other marine life and scenic coastal walks.

Elephant Island, Antarctica

No, there are no elephants in Antarctica. This island is named after the elephant seals spotted by early explorers along its shores. This island is historically significant as the refuge for Ernest Shackleton’s crew during their 1916 expedition.

Cat Island (Tashirojima), Japan

Famous for its large population of stray cats, which outnumber humans, this quirky island is a unique tourist spot. Visitors come to interact with the friendly felines, explore the “cat shrine,” and experience the island’s peaceful, feline-centric culture.

Pig Island (Big Major Cay), Bahamas

This uninhabited island is renowned for its feral swimming pigs, a major draw for tourists who enjoy swimming and posing with these animals. People don’t stay here, but the number of tourists proves the island’s popularity. The pigs, believed to have been left by sailors, give the island its name and make it a must-visit in the Bahamas.

Komodo Island, Indonesia

Named after the Komodo dragon, the world’s largest lizard, this island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors flock to see these fearsome reptiles in their natural habitat, alongside stunning beaches and diving opportunities. There are guided tours available. Maintain your distance when visiting Komodo dragons.

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

These islands are famous for their giant tortoises and unique biodiversity, which inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. The archipelago is a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers. Most of the animals found on this island are endemic in nature and have been around for a long time, especially the tortoises.