The tourism sector, according to UN estimates, accounts for about 9% of global GDP. By 2030, developing countries will be visited by over a billion tourists annually. Let's look at the most popular destinations among travelers at the moment.

Malaysia, 25 million tourists

Malaysia is practically two countries in one. The peninsula on which the state is located is divided South China Sea. The legendary jungles of Borneo are preserved on one of the islands, while the western part is concentrated big cities, in which the influences of Malay, Chinese and Indian cultures are strong.

Malaysia, unlike many other countries in the region, has a stable political and economic situation, which contributes to the influx of tourists who are attracted by beaches, safari tours and other outdoor recreation.

Russia, 25.7 million

With an area of ​​17 million square kilometers, every tourist will find something to their liking. The most popular tourist areas: the Black Sea coast and the cities of the central region.

UK, 29.3 million

The first thing a tourist notices in this country is the high cost of living in London. England is home to the first ever travel company, Thomas Cook, which is still operating and helps foreigners visit the UK, and the British see the world. Nearly half of the UK's tourists visit London, where Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament and the British Museum, which was visited by 5.5 million people in 2012.

Germany, 30.4 million

Three factors support Germany's tourism: the country's rich nature, its position in the heart of the eurozone and the fact that only 30% of Germans are willing to holiday at home. The country has a lot to see: the sun-drenched Bavarian gardens, the nightlife of Berlin and the bustling business of Frankfurt offer an endless array of ways to spend your time. This year in August, a celebration is planned in Berlin to mark the 25th anniversary of the demolition of the wall separating the Federal Republic of Germany from the GDR.

Türkiye, 35.7 million

Istanbul has been the point of contact between Eastern and Western cultures since 660 BC. e. Nowadays, the city is one of the fastest growing urban agglomerations in the world, with an area of ​​5,343 square kilometers. Istanbul attracts a large number of visitors during the summer months, and travelers will find the city much quieter if they visit outside of the tourist season.

The country's coastal areas attract holidaymakers who want to spend a few weeks on the beach, while breathtaking flights hot-air balloon over Cappadocia will surely be remembered forever.

Italy, 46.4 million

Venice and Rome can be called Meccas for tourists, where you can explore ancient ruins and look at masterpieces of painting, sculpture and architecture. Almost all of the country's attractions are included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The tourism sector in Italy is one of the most profitable industries. According to the Ministry of Finance, the net profit of companies in this area last year reached 136 billion euros.

Spain, 57.7 million

In a country where the unemployment rate reaches almost 26%, Spain's tourism industry continues to grow and the flow of tourists continues unabated. Europeans are now joined by tourists from Asian countries. There are 43 objects from the list located in Spain World Heritage. According to UNESCO, the nature of Spain is worthy of third place in the ranking of biosphere reserves.

China, 57.7 million

This country can often throw a European or American traveler into culture shock, but if you remember a few simple rules, the trip will become much easier. Never eat with the side of chopsticks that you use to serve food. Alcohol cannot be drunk without toast, and you must offer to pay the restaurant bill yourself.

USA, 67.0 million

Already in the 1850s. Tourism has been a prominent industry in America, and the amount of revenue per tourist is the largest in the world. In many states, hospitality and tourism are major components of GDP. Everyone is familiar with the White House, the Statue of Liberty or the Empire State Building, but in the United States there are tens of thousands of strange monuments, such as the 60-ton temple of garbage in New Orleans or Iowa's Albert, a 15-meter bronze bull.

France, 83.0 million

Literature, film and television have created an idealized image of the "city of lights", and as a result, France remains one of the most visited countries in the world today. In 2012 alone, profits in this sector of the economy amounted to 77.7 billion euros, most of which came from Paris and the French Riviera.

This article contains 10 best countries, where tourists are most welcome and where you can take full advantage of the best travel conditions in the world. These are countries with a high level of social standards and lifestyle, with rich historical roots and cultural heritage, with a low crime rate and a friendly population. Popular tourist countries have many hotels and resorts for tourists of all incomes, a range of attractions and modern amenities, best parks and beaches in the world. So, plan your trip and pack your bags!

Spain

Of course, Spain should be on this list because it is a beautiful European country with beautiful beaches all over the Mediterranean, as well as the most beautiful islands and coastal cities in this part of the sea. This is a huge country with a large number interesting places and cities for travel. Transparent blue waters Mediterranean, warm exotic light and soft golden sandy beaches convert spanish South coast V real paradise for tourists, especially in summer. Here guests can find both small resort settlements with private houses on the beach, and huge coastal cities with a large number of luxury hotels. From having fun in a big bustling giant city, to a completely quiet and relaxing holiday on a private beach, Spain has it all. So why not spend your time in exotic Spanish style? You can find out about the best beaches in Spain in a separate feed.

Malaysia

Malaysia is an equally popular tourist country. It is one of the most populous countries in Indonesia and also one of the richest in every sense. From the gigantic urban area of ​​Singapore, to the huge capital city of Kuala Lumpur with the tallest and most extraordinary skyscrapers in the world, there is definitely something to see here. If you want to get a feel for this country, enjoy a trip to the very northwestern corner of the country, where Langkawi Island is located. This is a small green tropical treasure with untouched nature, where you can enjoy a walk high above the rainforests and clouds on a real sky bridge. The Langkawi Sky Bridge allows you to view nature from above, offering exceptional panoramic vistas. Have you decided to travel? The best resorts in Malaysia are already waiting for you.

Switzerland

The small country of Switzerland is known as one of the best European countries for a holiday at any time of the year. It has vast, endless plains with green parks and historic villages, ancient sites and alpine landscapes. Swiss Alps, as well as the best ski resorts in the world. The ski trails are like giant steep corridors in a huge natural museum, while the lush green slopes with their forests and meadows resemble a mountain paradise. The best thing is that everything in Switzerland is located in close proximity, just a few hours away by train. In this popular tourist country, you can visit more places in a shorter period of time.

New Zealand

A trip to New Zealand will take you to exotic world southern hemisphere, where winter usually begins in August. New Zealand is so vast and diverse that it has several climate zones. With the hot tropical sun within North Island to the steep alpine peaks of South Island - there are many attractions to suit every taste. It has a magnificent variety of white sandy beaches lined with palm trees, as well as lush green forests and river valleys with some of the world's most unique creatures. Big cities are also quite unique and exotic, thanks to their impeccable hospitality and good infrastructure.

Fiji

If you want to escape to a remote tropical paradise- choose one of the Fiji Islands. They are even more tropical and exotic than New Zealand, also located in the Southern Pacific Ocean. Fiji - popular tourist destination, with an exotic atmosphere best beaches peace and unique nature. From white sandy beaches with friendly people to small coastal resort towns with first-class amenities and services - you will be accompanied everywhere by comfort and excellent service. Fiji also has a unique cultural atmosphere that can be seen in every historical building and local traditional restaurant. There are more than 300 islands and islets in the archipelago to explore. Get acquainted with the sights of Fiji in a special article on LifeGlobe.

Australia

Australia is a unique and very popular tourist country. This continent has a huge variety of entertainment and most beautiful places in the world. For example, the large bustling areas in Sydney or Melbourne, or the Canberra capital area, which includes some of the world's most famous landmarks. Can we also mention the amazing National parks in the Northern part of Australia, where rare animals live. You can also explore numerous landscapes such as deserts with huge red rocks and bizarre trees. All this is just a small part of what is worth visiting Australia for.

Scotland

Scotland is definitely no exception to this list. This is one of the friendliest countries in the world when it comes to playing cricket, or partying with friends, or having fun at the pub at night. Hospitality follows you as you travel to some of the most mystical and magical historical sites in northwestern Europe. Meanwhile, Scotland boasts truly vibrant and unusual natural diversity, with tranquil blue lochs, steep mountain peaks, river valleys and its own coastline. This is a very attractive country for tourism, suitable for family vacation and active travel.

Ireland

Ireland is another tourist destination where stunning traditional buildings and historical architectural styles are on display in Historical museums art, while the clean picturesque streets in large modern cities literally invite you on a tour. It also attracts a large number of unique Irish pubs, bars, restaurants and other traditional eateries. Don't miss a tasting of iconic Irish beer or whiskey, followed by panoramic ocean views from the coastal cliffs of southwest Ireland.

Summer is getting closer, it's time to think about where to spend it. It was on the eve of the summer season that we compiled a rating best places For beach holiday in Europe, Russia and exotic countries. Don't know where to go? Meet us!

Where should you not go?

• Leave aside European resorts that offer holidays on the Black Sea. The service there, of course, is higher than domestic, but the sea is the same, and the pricing policy can be easily compared with resorts Mediterranean Sea or the Indian Ocean.
• You should not go to those countries that seem unsafe to you: Thailand, India, Bangladesh. And if you decide to go there, choose your location and hotel carefully.
• To resorts where there is at least a hint of an unfriendly attitude towards Russians. Your holiday could turn into a nightmare, so read reviews carefully.
• To countries where you will have to overpay. Prefer Montenegro to holidays in Croatia, choose the Philippines instead of Thailand, and prefer Grenada to the Bahamas. There you will find everything the same, but much cheaper.

Rating of the best places for a beach holiday

The best beach holiday in Europe

Greece, Crete

Photo: www.turboz.ru

Crete is the most popular place in Greece, where our tourists prefer to go on vacation. If you travel on your own, you can easily spend a modest amount and have a great time both on the beach and on excursions.
Advantages:

• clear sea, sandy beach;
• excellent European service, friendly staff;
• rich story Greece will not let you get bored during your vacation.

Flaws:

• you need to get a visa.

Advice: if you don’t want to go to Crete in the very heat, choose either June or September for your vacation.
Reviews from vacationers on Crete:
“Greece is an ideal place, I went there for the third time! Satisfied!
“This year we vacationed near Heraklion and toured the eastern part of Crete. I’m really tempted to return to Crete and see the west (they say it’s even better!).”

Montenegro, Budva

Photo: merealty.ru

Those who decide to relax at sea abroad for the first time are advised to go to Montenegro. The price-quality ratio is obvious here, and there are many advantages to vacationing in distant countries. Also, many people prefer Montenegro to Bulgaria due to the fact that the Adriatic Sea is here, not the Black Sea.

Advantages:

• prices for almost everything are acceptable, Bulgaria and Croatia are much more expensive;
• similar mentality, there is no language and cultural barrier;
• no visa required;
• The beach is both small pebble and sandy.

Flaws

Adviсe:

• It’s better to stay not in Budva itself, but in nearby villages, for example, in the village. Language There are fewer people on the beach and prices are even lower;
• The best time for a holiday is June.

Reviews from vacationers in Budva:
“Great big beach in the village. Language There are small pebbles on one side and sand on the other. In Budva itself, on the beach, it’s terrible, there are tons of people, so we really chose the best option for us.”
“As for the food, I’ll say that we spent lunch and dinner on the embankment. We took shawarma for 3 euros (they have such huge portions), personally it lasted me until 9 pm. Beer - 1.5 euros, chicken in pita bread - 3 euros, expensive tea - 3 euros, ice cream - 1.5 euros (also a large portion). There is also a small one - 0.5 cents.”

Spain, Mallorca

Photo: kervansaraymarmaris.com

Popular resort island in the Mediterranean Sea is chosen by people with above-average income. Spain is a rather expensive country, so a holiday here will cost a pretty penny.
Advantages:

• excellent European service;
• beaches for every taste: sandy and rocky, clear sea;
• the richest culture of Spain.

Flaws:

• need a visa.

Reviews from vacationers in Mallorca:
“We vacationed in the Cala D’or area - this is South part islands, a few tens of kilometers from the capital Palma de Mallorca, in my opinion - a good place for a relaxing, family holiday, unlike areas located near Palma.”
“The island resembles a miniature Spain. Here you can find a beach for every taste and color... You can also decide on the issue of privacy: you can go to very noisy beaches or visit a secluded beach where there are very few people.”

Italy, Calabria

Photo: www.putevoditel.nakurorte.ru

Calabria, which is located on the “toe” of the Italian boot, is perfect for beach lovers. There are not many attractions here, but low prices, beautiful beaches and clear sea.

Advantages:

• inexpensive hotels and life in general;
• clean sea, sandy beaches;
• excellent infrastructure and European service.

Flaws:

• basically nothing to see;
• need a visa.

Reviews from vacationers in Calabria:
“If the beach, the sea, or just relaxation are more important, it’s better in Calabria. There are quite long and wide sandy beaches, a good clean sea... Not many people. And prices in hotels and restaurants are lower there.”
“Calabria in the Tropea region (there is a very beautiful sea and good and relatively inexpensive hotels with own beaches) is more suitable for a relaxing beach holiday.”

The best beach holidays in exotic countries

India, Goa

Photo: fionatravel.com.ua

Goa evokes conflicting impressions among different people: some say that their holiday in Goa was unforgettable, while others remember it as a boring time spent surrounded by cows and dirty water. If you are used to Turkish all-inclusive, a holiday in Goa is not for you.

Advantages:

• exoticism that will be remembered for a long time;
• low prices (if you do not take 5* hotels);
• rich culture of India.

Flaws:

• the sea can be dirty depending on the season;
• long flight (non-stop - 7-8 hours).

Adviсe:

• relax on Goa is better from December to March;
• choose your hotel carefully, as in any exotic country;
• refrain from holidaying in Goa with children. Many tourists take children with them, but it is not safe.

Reviews from vacationers in Goa:
“Unique nature, excellent climate. We were there at the end of December. The weather was about +30, +32, but it was not stuffy. And the water was always equally warm!”
“When counting the money spent on food, it turned out that food, just food, for two of us for 9 days, including lunches and dinners, cost us 6,000 rubles. for two. I think it’s not expensive at all, provided that you eat what you want, when you want and in any quantities.”

Cuba, o. Cayo Largo

Photo: dsc.invia.sk

The island of Cayo Largo is famous for its gorgeous beaches and clear sea. Russians are treated very well here, unlike the Dominican Republic, so you can safely plan your trip.

Advantages:

• excellent sandy beach and crystal pure water;
• friendly attitude of hotel staff;
• no visa required.

Flaws: with a properly planned trip there are none.

Advice: It’s better to go to Cuba in the spring, i.e. from March to May (sometimes June).

Reviews from vacationers on the island. Cayo Largo:
"We liked. The weather is very comfortable, there is always a breeze, so it is not hot. The sea, the beach, the sand are just some cartoonish color, everything is somehow unreal.”
“This is a wonderful place, simply fabulous! The sea - it is impossible to describe its beauty! Sand - it is impossible to describe its whiteness! Palm trees are tall! Dolphins are friendly!”

Bali, Tanjung Benoa

Photo: nsk-1001tur.ru

Bali has places for both quiet and noisy holidays. In Tanjung Benoa, the holiday is just measured, calm, which is suitable for married couples who prefer to bask on the beach.

Advantages:

• exotic atmosphere for those who want something unusual;
• friendly hotel staff;
• you can live quite cheaply;
• rich culture local residents;
• The visa is issued upon arrival at the airport.

Flaws:

• not always clean beaches;
• lack of attractions.

Adviсe:

• Don't go to Bali if you care about clean sand and crystal water. But if you want to bring exoticism into your life, go there;
• From November to the end of March in Bali is the rainy season, it is better to choose a different time for your vacation.

Reviews from vacationers in Tanjung Benoa:
“Bali did not disappoint one bit. This is a very special place, with a very special atmosphere and nature. You want to go back there again and again, or even better, not to leave there at all... This place needs to be felt, felt, lived, with its not always clean ocean, beaches not with white sand, lack of architecture...”
“We lived in Novotel Benoa 4* (Tanjung Benoa): a quiet place, along the street there are small (and inexpensive) restaurants - we chose one of them and had dinner there every evening.”

Malaysia, o. Borneo

Photo: www.sunplanet.ru

Malaysia is preferred by those who like to lie on the beach and sunbathe. However, there are also many interesting sights, the inspection of which will diversify your holiday.

Advantages:

• a large island, you can not only swim and sunbathe, but also get acquainted with local life;
• clean sea and sandy beaches;
• you can go diving;
• no visa required.

Flaws: with a properly planned trip there are none.

Advice: it’s better to go to o. Borneo from April to October.

According to the World Tourism Organization, more than a billion people visit foreign countries every year. Where do modern tourists and travelers most often go, what are the most popular countries for tourism? We will not take into account those people who come to other countries for just one or a few days; we are interested in those who spent at least a week there.

France

The most popular countries for tourism in Europe are led by France. Paris in particular is the most visited foreign tourists city, it is often called the most romantic place on the ground. Right here at the top Eiffel Tower, a huge number of marriage proposals have been made, the newlyweds come to Paris. In a word, everything here is shrouded in an atmosphere of love and romance.

Of course, not all tourists who come to France are lovers; there really is something to see and be surprised by. A huge cultural heritage, amazing national cuisine, exquisite wine, gorgeous nature - this is what attracts tourists from different parts of the world. If you want to spend a few days at sea, feel free to go to Cote d'Azur- The most fashionable resorts and luxury hotels are located here.

Spain

This country will satisfy the taste preferences of both beach lovers and connoisseurs of attractions that are part of the world cultural heritage. A comfortable climate, a lot of cultural and historical attractions, excellent Mediterranean cuisine and the friendliness of the locals are what many tourists note.

Be sure to visit Barcelona - one of the most beautiful cities not only Europe, but also the world.

China

IN last years The world's top tourism destinations have accepted China into their “community.” This country is visited by an increasing number of tourists from different parts of the world. globe, the Russians also “tried” it. The incredible natural beauty and originality of culture will not leave even the most sophisticated tourist indifferent.

If you love traditional Asian countries, for example, be sure to visit China at least once in your life - you will be truly delighted. There is no less color and exoticism here, but the quality of recreation and the development of infrastructure are impressive. More than 55 million tourists visit China every year.

USA

Surely every second person in the world would like to visit the USA. If you are looking for the most popular countries for tourism, you will probably find America in every ranking. The country of enormous opportunities has been attracting not only emigrants, but also tourists for more than a century. Entertainment lovers and megacities are attracted to New York, Las Vegas, and Chicago. In turn, connoisseurs of local beauty will find a lot of interesting things here. How do you like it Grand Canyon or, say, Yellowstone National Park?

The standard of living in America is impressive, and some tourists really begin to think about moving after their trip. That is why the United States has tightened visa requirements, especially for Russians.

Great Britain

It is difficult to call England a classic holiday destination, however, the most popular countries for tourism include it in their list. The country certainly does not experience a shortage of tourists.

Of course, most tourists go to London, which offers attractions for every taste: from art to traditional football. But there are also those travelers who visit remote corners of the country where they can admire stunning scenery.

Türkiye

The most popular tourism countries, or rather the list of those already listed, need to be supplemented with Turkey. This is a favorite resort for beach holidays among Russians and not only. You are guaranteed wonderful weather, a warm and gentle sea, gorgeous beaches with a wide coastline.

If you want to get to know Turkey better, feel free to go to Istanbul - a city with a centuries-old history and a huge cultural heritage, connecting Europe and Asia.

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has published data on which countries and regions of the world were most popular in 2013. In total, 1 billion 87 million people traveled for tourism purposes last year. Europe remains the most popular region in the world, which was visited by more than half (51.8%) of the world’s tourists - 563.8 million. Asia (excluding the countries of the Near and Middle East) and Oceania accounted for 22.9 percent of tourists (248.7 million), North and South America- 15.5% (168.2 million), for Africa (without Egypt) - 5.1% (55.9 million), for the Near and Middle East (including Egypt) - 4.7% (50.8 million), and this region became the only one where the number of tourists decreased compared to 2012. This is due to the unstable political situation in Egypt and Syria. In 2014, the number of tourists in the region continues to decline due to Israel's military operation in the Gaza Strip.

As for the most popular tourist countries world, then the top ten looks like this:

10th place - Thailand with 26.5 million tourists in 2013.

9th place - Russia with 28.4 million tourists. For a long time, the most active tourists in our country were Americans and Europeans. But recently, more and more tourists are coming to Russia from China. Chinese tourists in Russia took the lead in the first quarter of 2014. From 2015, it is planned to send groups of Chinese tourists to Crimea using visa-free lists (tourism data for 2013, of course, excluding Crimea, which was then part of Ukraine).

8th place - Great Britain with 31.2 million tourists.

7th place - Germany with 31.5 million tourists.

6th place - Türkiye with 37.8 million tourists. Türkiye is .

5th place - Italy with 47.7 million tourists.

4th place - China with 55.7 million tourists.