British Airways names top 13 destinations for 2013
Dubai has made the cut as one of British Airways top 13 destinations to visit in 2013.
The city is in company with other warm-weather destinations such as Rio de Janeiro, Las Vegas, and San Diego, California.
British Airways area commercial manager for the Middle East and Central Asia Paolo De Renzis said that Dubai’s ranking is indicative of its status as an established tourist hotspot.
“Dubai has long been a destination of choice for Europeans looking for sun, sand and shopping, while at the same time, Dubai residents are looking for new cities and countries to discover,” said Renzis.
Its popularity is also partially driven by its value for money, an aspect that is also drawing travellers to Cape Town, Bangkok, Sri Lanka, observed British Airways head of UK and Ireland sales Richard Tams.
The list was compiled by a panel of experts, using the airlines data. Each destination on the top 13 list is accessible via British Airways Terminal 5 at London Heathrow airport.
CLICK THROUGH TO NEXT PAGES TO SEE: British Airways top 13 destinations to visit in 2013
Article continues on next page...
Alicante, Spain
Alicante’s Old Town markets buzz with activity during the daytime, while the nightlife flocks to its restaurants for Spanish cuisine. The city is geared up for a yearlong fiesta as it hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, while beaches welcome tourists in search of relaxation.
Article continues on next page...
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is Africa’s most popular tourist destination. Its Table Mountain, Cape Point, world-class beaches, whale watching, cultural landmarks, and historic Cape Dutch architecture draw travelers to this Southern Hemisphere city. The city also offers vibrant dining, nightlife, and hospitality industries.
Article continues on next page...
Croatia
This coastal European country enjoys Mediterranean weather and sweeping ocean views. The tourism industry is a large part of Croatia’s economy, the largest segment coming from nautical tourism representing the country’s popularity for yachting and sailing. The country’s Adriatic Sea is also home to a thousand small islands.
Article continues on next page...
Derry, Northern Ireland
Just over an hour outside of Belfast, this city was voted as the City of Culture for 2013. The city’s diverse museums and cathedrals offer opportunities for exploration. Its sweeping views of the Northern Irish countryside also draw in travelers.
Article continues on next page...
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai has focused on developing its tourism industry in recent years. The largest populated emirate on the Arab Peninsula is famous for offering some of the biggest attractions in the world, from the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building; to man-made islands and large hotel developments; to some of the world’s largest shopping malls.
Article continues on next page...
Las Vegas, United States of America
Las Vegas has long been an oasis of entertainment in the desert. Yet it now offers more than just gambling, its high-end hotels, theatrical shows, varied restaurants, international shopping, and theme park-like attractions draw attention to the American city.
Article continues on next page...
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Nestled in the Spanish Caribbean, Punta Cana has enjoyed recent popularity as an affordable family holiday destination. Its consistent climate means beaches, golf courses, and seaside resorts can be enjoyed year round by tourists.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The city is basking in the afterglow of the London Olympics as it gears up to host the 2016 games. It will get a warm-up for global athletics with the FIFA Confederations Cup in 2013 and the World Cup in 2014. Aside from its athletic pitches, the city’s sun-kissed beaches and Carnaval atmosphere draw visitors from around the world.
Article continues on next page...
San Diego, United States of America
This California seaside enclave offers a relaxed pace in comparison to the state’s more well-known cities such as Los Angeles or San Francisco. A surplus of beaches, parks, entertainment attractions, and a world-class zoo cemented this coastal destination’s place on the list.
Article continues on next page...
Seoul, South Korea
South Korea’s largest city has enjoyed recent economic growth, transforming it into a global city. It has the second most used subway system in the world. The city also enjoys a growing restaurant and nightlife scene. Travelers can indulge in Seoul’s shopping districts, art galleries, museums, and architecture.
Article continues on next page...
Sri Lanka
This South Asian country enjoys the benefits of an island location in the Indian Ocean. The country is well-known for its well-preserved ancient ruins. It’s lush greenery, biodiversity, and sandy beaches serve as points of interest for tourists. The country is also home to native elephants, leopards, and wild boars.
Article continues on next page...
Tbilisi, Georgia
The capital and largest city in Georgia lies on the banks of the Kura River. Ethnically diverse Tbilisi is famous for its mix of Byzantine and Middle Eastern influenced architecture. Its ballet and opera theatre, national library, ancient fortress, and cathedrals are all tourist hotspots.
Article continues on next page...
Vietnam
A series of economic reforms following the Vietnam War have aided in this country’s emergence as a tourist destination. Hanoi, Saigon, and coastal regions are some of the most popular with travelers. The country hosts a number of annual festivals and more tourist attractions are slated for development in the coming years.