Latest news with #Go2Africa
Forbes
4 days ago
- Forbes
Ranked: The World's Most Visited Countries In 2024
Fisherman Boat with Fuji Moutnain bacgkround in Morning Mist Autumn, Kawaguchikok Lake, Japan getty F rom the snow-kissed peaks of Japan to the myth-laden palaces of Crete —this guide is your passport to the planet's top travel magnets that stir the senses and spark curiosity—as millions of explorers crisscross continents in search of wonder. Backed by research from leading travel company, Go2Africa, we've highlighted the world's most visited countries in 2024—to inspire your next adventures. Stepping beyond the postcard—you'll journey into a world of incense-filled temples, fairytale villages, and glorious islands—from the charm of Europe to the soul of Asia and the grace of North America . Paris getty France is a dreamscape woven in sun-drenched vineyards, golden beaches, snow-kissed alpine peaks, and elegant café-lined boulevards. From the timeless romance of Paris to the lavender fields of Provence , first-time visitors are spellbound by its sublime art, ornamental architecture, and rich history—whether wandering through Versailles' gilded halls or gazing up at the Gothic majesty of Notre-Dame . For gastronomes, France is a soul-stirring pilgrimage. Regional delicacies seduce at every charming corner: think buttery croissants in a tucked-away Parisian patisserie, briny oysters fresh from the Atlantic coast, and melt-in-your-mouth Brie de Meaux aged in stone-walled cellars—where Châteauneuf-du-Pape flows. Along the glittering Côte d'Azur , Mediterranean glamour meets Riviera chic, while Alsace enchants with storybook half-timbered villages—and for adventurers, the Alps promise world-class skiing. Forbes The World's Best River Cruises 2025, According To Experts By Lewis Nunn View of the city from Park Guell in Barcelona, Spain with moving clouds. getty From the Moorish palaces of Andalucía to the modernist masterpieces of Barcelona, Spain unfolds like an open-air museum—think sweeping olive groves, rugged mountains, and an endless golden coastline—whether it's the Balearic Islands' crystal-clear coves or the dramatic cliffs of Galicia . In Madrid, you'll wander through grand boulevards and world-class galleries, then settle in for tapas and vermouth at a cozy taberna . Barcelona, however, sparkles with Gaudí's whimsical architecture and the buzz of beachside nightlife. Further south, Granada and Seville seduce with flamenco echoes through lantern-lit courtyards and orange blossoms perfuming the air. Food is practically a religion here—succulent jamón ibérico, sizzling patatas bravas, and ocean-fresh seafood paellas steal the spotlight—paired with bold Rioja wines or crisp albariños. And when it comes to celebration, few places rival Spain: with festivals like La Tomatina and Las Fallas bursting with fiery energy and chaos—a reminder that Spain celebrates life with gusto. Buildings in Manhattan, New York getty Spanning coast to coast, the United States dazzles with contrasts—where drive-thru diners and Michelin-star restaurants, rodeos and Broadway shows, all coexist in this 50-state tapestry. In New York City , towering skyscrapers and world-class museums meet iconic neighborhoods—from hipster Brooklyn to historic Harlem. The West Coast , however, charms with California's sun-soaked beaches, the tech buzz of Silicon Valley, and the vintage cinema glamour of Los Angeles. For nature lovers, the U.S. is a playground too —hike through misty forests in the Pacific Northwest, marvel at the Grand Canyon's prehistoric vastness, or chase geysers in Yellowstone. Meanwhile, the South pulses with soul-stirring music—from Nashville's honky-tonks to New Orleans' jazz-filled streets. Forbes The Ultimate Guide To Croatia Island Hopping By Lewis Nunn Venice Grand Canal getty From the sun-drenched cliffs of the Amalfi Coast to the rolling vineyards of Tuscany and the snow-cloaked Dolomites, Italy is a timeless seduction—where art, history, cuisine, and romance all intertwine. In Rome, ancient ruins meet ornate Baroque fountains as you stroll from the Colosseum to the Vatican. Meanwhile, Venice, with its misty canals and fading palazzi, floats in a dreamlike haze of nostalgia and elegance. Head north to Milan and you'll get addicted to its modernity and haute couture, while Florence stuns with Renaissance grandeur and world-class galleries. Foodies? Sip velvety Barolo in the rolling hills of Piemonte, twirl strands of handmade pasta in Bologna, and sample creamy artisan gelato on a cobbled piazza in Sicily. 5. Turkey Number of Tourists in 2024: 52.6 million Hot Air Balloons at Love Valley in Cappadocia getty Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey is a country of compelling contrasts—where grueling mountain hikes through the Kaçkar range meet indulgent hammam rituals steeped in centuries of tradition. In Istanbul , East meets West as you wander through the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia, get lost in the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar, or watch the sunset over the Bosphorus with a cup of çay in hand. Head deeper into Anatolia and uncover the beauty of Cappadocia —where fairy chimneys and hot air balloons paint a dreamlike skyline. History buffs, however, will marvel at Ephesus , a remarkably preserved Greco-Roman city, and the ancient ruins of Troy. Meanwhile, along the turquoise coast, jewels like Antalya and Bodrum offer dazzling beaches and lively harbors. But it's not just the sights— Turkey is famed for its hospitality. Feast on sizzling kebabs, flaky baklava, and freshly baked simit from street vendors—or sip thick Turkish coffee as locals share stories. Read More: Forbes Is This The World's Most Expensive Cruise? By Lewis Nunn 6. Mexico Number of Tourists in 2024: 45 million San Miguel de Allende, Mexico getty From ancient Aztec ruins to the colonial charm of Oaxaca, Mexico grabs you by the senses and doesn't let go. Step into history at Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, or explore the painted facades and cobblestone alleys of San Miguel de Allende. Nature lovers, however, can snorkel in the crystalline waters of Cozumel, hike through the copper-colored canyons of Chihuahua, or witness bioluminescent plankton sparkling along the shores of Holbox Island. Meanwhile, beachgoers and sun-chasers find their paradise in the palm-fringed sands of Tulum and the surf-washed coves of Puerto Escondido. And then there's the food—savor street tacos fresh off the grill and sip smoky mezcal under a velvet starry sky. 7. Hong Kong Number of Tourists in 2024: 44.5 million Junk boat crossing Hong Kong harbor. getty Hong Kong —while not an official country (rather, a Special Administrative Region )—deserves a spotlight. Here, skyscrapers rise shoulder to shoulder with ancient temples, and neon-lit streets hum with life around the clock. Ride the iconic Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour for panoramic views of its soaring skyline, or ascend to Victoria Peak for glorious sunsets. Shopping here is legendary, too— you can explore luxury malls in Central or haggle for hidden treasures in the markets of Mong Kok. Foodies, meanwhile, are spoiled for choice: sip tea in historic dim sum teahouses, munch on egg waffles from street vendors, or sample Michelin-starred street bites at restaurants like Tim Ho Wan . Be sure to explore Hong Kong's spiritual side too: pay a visit to the Big Buddha on Lantau Island and stroll through the incense-filled halls of Man Mo Temple. Nature lovers, however, can hike the Dragon's Back trail for stunning coastal views or lounge on the beaches of Sai Kung. Whether you're craving high fashion, ancient rituals, buzzing nightlife, or some of the world's best noodles— Hong Kong has it all. Read More: Forbes How To Spend The Perfect Weekend In The Lake District By Lewis Nunn 8. United Kingdom Number of Tourists in 2024: 41.2 million Castle Combe in Wiltshire, England in the Autumn getty From the royal fanfare of London to the Celtic legends of Scotland and the poetic soul of Welsh valleys, the United Kingdom brims with centuries-old heritage, rolling countryside, and buzzing megacities. Start in London , England's bustling capital, where icons like Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, and the British Museum await—while sipping cocktails in sky-high bars or surfing through Borough Market. Beyond the capital, however, amble through fairytale villages of the Cotswolds or hike the dramatic peaks of Scotland's Highlands . Explore historic gems like York and Edinburgh, where cobbled lanes lead to ancient castles and cozy fireside pubs—meanwhile, literature lovers can trace Shakespeare's footsteps in Stratford-upon-Avon or explore Oxford's colleges where great minds from Tolkien to Hawking once roamed. Wales tempts with rugged coastlines and windswept castles, and Northern Ireland stuns with the surreal basalt columns of Giant's Causeway. And let's not forget English culinary treats—think buttery scones in countryside tearooms or fish and chips by the breezy seaside in Cornwall. 9. Greece Number of Tourists in 2024: 40.7 million Church in Oia (Santorini, Greece). getty From the whitewashed villages of Santorini to the ancient ruins of Athens, Greece is a treasure trove for travelers drawn to its rich Mediterranean culture and storied past. Start your journey in its capital, Athens , where the Acropolis towers above the city—and dive into street markets bursting with pungent herbs, handwoven textiles, and beautiful ceramics—before savouring souvlaki in a tucked-away taverna. Island-hopping is essential. The Cyclades are famed for postcard-perfect sunsets—while Crete offers rugged gorges and myth-laden palaces. For a quieter escape, explore the Ionian islands with their emerald waters and Venetian flair. History lovers, however, will be captivated by Delphi's ancient oracle or the monasteries of Meteora—sitting high on otherworldly rock formations. Greece also seduces with its rhythm—long lunches under vine-covered pergolas and traditional music drifting through sunlit village squares. Whether you're hiking the legendary slopes of Mount Olympus or sipping iced coffee by the Aegean, Greece beckons an alphabet of travelers—with warmth, wonder, and timeless beauty. Read More: Forbes The Ultimate Guide To South Africa Cruises By Lewis Nunn 10. Japan Number of Tourists in 2024: 36.9 million Fujiyoshida, Japan at Chureito Pagoda and Mt. Fuji in the spring with cherry blossoms. getty From the neon-lit towers of Tokyo to soaking in an onsen beneath snow-dusted peaks, Japan is a nation where centuries-old traditions brush seamlessly against striking, cutting-edge innovation. Start in its capital, Tokyo —where skyscrapers glow above sushi counters and bullet trains whisk you past springtime cherry blossoms. Kyoto , meanwhile, whispers of a quieter Japan—where you can wander through bamboo groves in Arashiyama, sip matcha in a serene teahouse, and catch the flicker of a geisha slipping down lantern-lit alleys. Nature lovers, however, will adore Hokkaido —where rolling lavender fields meet powdery slopes—while Nara offers the perfect opportunity to meet roaming deer under ancient shrines. Whether you're drawn by samurai lore, anime culture, or Zen gardens galore, Japan is a miso soup bowl of discovery. Read More: Forbes The World's Best River Cruises 2025, According To Experts By Lewis Nunn Forbes How To Spend The Perfect Weekend In Guernsey By Lewis Nunn Forbes The Ultimate Guide To Croatia Island Hopping By Lewis Nunn Forbes Is This The World's Most Expensive Cruise? By Lewis Nunn Forbes How To Spend The Perfect Weekend In The Lake District By Lewis Nunn Forbes The Ultimate Guide To South Africa Cruises By Lewis Nunn
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Yahoo
15 most overcrowded tourist destinations revealed — is one of your favorite vacation spots among them?
Birds of a feather flock together. Since most people travel during the summer season, some of the world's most beautiful destinations are also its most overcrowded. A new ranking by Go2Africa has revealed the top 15 most overcrowded tourist destinations in the world — where the number of visitors dramatically outweighs the local population. It highlights a growing global trend: picturesque destinations are feeling the strain of overtourism. As travel rebounds worldwide, congestion of tourists raises questions about sustainability, local impact and the delicate balance between welcome and overwhelm. To figure out which countries made this list, Go2Africa compared each country's total number of visitors per year to its population data by analyzing tourism figures from national tourist boards and reports. Their findings revealed that Vatican City — the world's smallest country by both area and population — tops the list. Despite the population of this sovereign city-state within Rome, Italy being only 882 residents, the spiritual heart of Catholicism welcomes an astounding 6.8 million tourists annually. That equates to a staggering 7,709.75 visitors for every local — a clear reflection of the city-state's immense religious and historical draw. Nestled in the Pyrenees between France and Spain, the mountainous principality of Andorra takes second place. Best known for its ski resorts and tax-free shopping, this Southwestern European country sees around 9.6 million tourists each year. With a population of just under 82,000, that means there are 117.16 tourists for every resident. Another European mountainous microstate, San Marino, ranks third. With only 33,581 residents, it attracts 2 million tourists annually. Known for its medieval architecture and scenic hilltop views, San Marino hosts 59.56 tourists per local. In fourth place is the Bahamas, a sun-soaked Caribbean paradise. Although home to just over 400,000 people, the island nation welcomes more than 11.2 million visitors each year — equivalent to 27.96 tourists per resident. Its crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches remain a major pull for international travelers. The tropical Caribbean country, Saint Kitts and Nevis, rounded out the top five. It has a population of 46,843 and draws in 875,085 visitors annually. The dual-island nation sees 18.68 tourists per resident. Its lush scenery and tranquil beaches have made it a celebrity favorite — most famously with Princess Diana. These findings highlight the growing impact of tourism not just on infrastructure, but also on local communities. While scenic and culturally rich destinations remain irresistible to global travelers, the figures reveal the need for sustainable tourism strategies to preserve these special places for generations to come. The top 15 most overcrowded travel destinations: 1. Vatican City Local population: 882 Tourists per year: 6,800,000 2. Andorra Local population: 81,938 Tourists per year: 9,600,000 3. San Marino Local population: 33,581 Tourists per year: 2,000,000 4. Bahamas Local population: 401,283 Tourists per year: 11,220,000 5. Saint Kitts and Nevis Local population: 46,843 Tourists per year: 875,085 6. Antigua and Barbuda Local population: 93,772 Tourists per year: 1,154,236 7. Bahrain Local population: 1,607,049 Tourists per year: 14,900,000 8. Monaco Local population: 38,956 Tourists per year: 340,000 9. Malta Local population: 563,443 Tourists per year: 3,563,618 10. Hong Kong Local population: 7,414,909 Tourists per year: 44,500,000 11. Iceland Local population: 393,396 Tourists per year: 2,287,341 12. Croatia Local population: 3,875,325 Tourists per year: 21,300,000 13. Barbados Local population: 282,467 Tourists per year: 1,520,740 14. Switzerland Local population: 8,921,981 Tourists per year: 42,800,000 15. Grenada Local population: 117,081 Tourists per year: 504,000
Sky News AU
6 days ago
- Sky News AU
World's 15 most overcrowded tourist destinations revealed - is one of your favorite vacation spots among them?
Birds of a feather flock together. Since most people travel during the summer season, some of the world's most beautiful destinations are also its most overcrowded. A new ranking by Go2Africa has revealed the top 15 most overcrowded tourist destinations in the world — where the number of visitors dramatically outweighs the local population. It highlights a growing global trend: picturesque destinations are feeling the strain of overtourism. As travel rebounds worldwide, congestion of tourists raises questions about sustainability, local impact and the delicate balance between welcome and overwhelm. To figure out which countries made this list, Go2Africa compared each country's total number of visitors per year to its population data by analyzing tourism figures from national tourist boards and reports. Their findings revealed that Vatican City — the world's smallest country by both area and population — tops the list. Despite the population of this sovereign city-state within Rome, Italy being only 882 residents, the spiritual heart of Catholicism welcomes an astounding 6.8 million tourists annually. That equates to a staggering 7,709.75 visitors for every local — a clear reflection of the city-state's immense religious and historical draw. Nestled in the Pyrenees between France and Spain, the mountainous principality of Andorra takes second place. Best known for its ski resorts and tax-free shopping, this south-western European country sees around 9.6 million tourists each year. With a population of just under 82,000, that means there are 117.16 tourists for every resident. Another European mountainous microstate, San Marino, ranks third. With only 33,581 residents, it attracts 2 million tourists annually. Known for its medieval architecture and scenic hilltop views, San Marino hosts 59.56 tourists per local. In fourth place is the Bahamas, a sun-soaked Caribbean paradise. Although home to just over 400,000 people, the island nation welcomes more than 11.2 million visitors each year — equivalent to 27.96 tourists per resident. Its crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches remain a major pull for international travelers. The tropical Caribbean country, Saint Kitts and Nevis, rounded out the top five. It has a population of 46,843 and draws in 875,085 visitors annually. The dual-island nation sees 18.68 tourists per resident. Its lush scenery and tranquil beaches have made it a celebrity favorite — most famously with Princess Diana. These findings highlight the growing impact of tourism not just on infrastructure, but also on local communities. While scenic and culturally rich destinations remain irresistible to global travelers, the figures reveal the need for sustainable tourism strategies to preserve these special places for generations to come. The top 15 most overcrowded travel destinations: 1. Vatican City Local population: 882 Tourists per year: 6,800,000 2. Andorra Local population: 81,938 Tourists per year: 9,600,000 3. San Marino Local population: 33,581 Tourists per year: 2,000,000 4. Bahamas Local population: 401,283 Tourists per year: 11,220,000 5. Saint Kitts and Nevis Local population: 46,843 Tourists per year: 875,085 6. Antigua and Barbuda Local population: 93,772 Tourists per year: 1,154,236 7. Bahrain Local population: 1,607,049 Tourists per year: 14,900,000 8. Monaco Local population: 38,956 Tourists per year: 340,000 9. Malta Local population: 563,443 Tourists per year: 3,563,618 10. Hong Kong Local population: 7,414,909 Tourists per year: 44,500,000 11. Iceland Local population: 393,396 Tourists per year: 2,287,341 12. Croatia Local population: 3,875,325 Tourists per year: 21,300,000 13. Barbados Local population: 282,467 Tourists per year: 1,520,740 14. Switzerland Local population: 8,921,981 Tourists per year: 42,800,000 15. Grenada Local population: 117,081 Tourists per year: 504,000 Originally published as World's 15 most overcrowded tourist destinations revealed - is one of your favorite vacation spots among them?
New York Post
6 days ago
- New York Post
15 most overcrowded tourist destinations revealed — is one of your favorite vacation spots among them?
Birds of a feather flock together. Since most people travel during the summer season, some of the world's most beautiful destinations are also its most overcrowded. A new ranking by Go2Africa has revealed the top 15 most overcrowded tourist destinations in the world — where the number of visitors dramatically outweighs the local population. Advertisement It highlights a growing global trend: picturesque destinations are feeling the strain of overtourism. As travel rebounds worldwide, congestion of tourists raises questions about sustainability, local impact and the delicate balance between welcome and overwhelm. Advertisement To figure out which countries made this list, Go2Africa compared each country's total number of visitors per year to its population data by analyzing tourism figures from national tourist boards and reports. Their findings revealed that Vatican City — the world's smallest country by both area and population — tops the list. Despite the population of this sovereign city-state within Rome, Italy being only 882 residents, the spiritual heart of Catholicism welcomes an astounding 6.8 million tourists annually. That equates to a staggering 7,709.75 visitors for every local — a clear reflection of the city-state's immense religious and historical draw. 3 Vatican City is the most overcrowded tourist destination in the world. pyty – Advertisement Nestled in the Pyrenees between France and Spain, the mountainous principality of Andorra takes second place. Best known for its ski resorts and tax-free shopping, this Southwestern European country sees around 9.6 million tourists each year. With a population of just under 82,000, that means there are 117.16 tourists for every resident. Another European mountainous microstate, San Marino, ranks third. With only 33,581 residents, it attracts 2 million tourists annually. Known for its medieval architecture and scenic hilltop views, San Marino hosts 59.56 tourists per local. Advertisement 3 San Marino is a landlocked country in Southern Europe, surrounded by Italy. Kadmy – In fourth place is the Bahamas, a sun-soaked Caribbean paradise. Although home to just over 400,000 people, the island nation welcomes more than 11.2 million visitors each year — equivalent to 27.96 tourists per resident. Its crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches remain a major pull for international travelers. The tropical Caribbean country, Saint Kitts and Nevis, rounded out the top five. It has a population of 46,843 and draws in 875,085 visitors annually. The dual-island nation sees 18.68 tourists per resident. Its lush scenery and tranquil beaches have made it a celebrity favorite — most famously with Princess Diana. 3 Saint Kitts and Nevis is the fifth most overcrowded tourist destination in the world. Andreas – These findings highlight the growing impact of tourism not just on infrastructure, but also on local communities. While scenic and culturally rich destinations remain irresistible to global travelers, the figures reveal the need for sustainable tourism strategies to preserve these special places for generations to come. The top 15 most overcrowded travel destinations: 1. Vatican City Advertisement Local population: 882 Tourists per year: 6,800,000 2. Andorra Local population: 81,938 Tourists per year: 9,600,000 3. San Marino Advertisement Local population: 33,581 Tourists per year: 2,000,000 4. Bahamas Local population: 401,283 Tourists per year: 11,220,000 5. Saint Kitts and Nevis Advertisement Local population: 46,843 Tourists per year: 875,085 6. Antigua and Barbuda Local population: 93,772 Tourists per year: 1,154,236 7. Bahrain Advertisement Local population: 1,607,049 Tourists per year: 14,900,000 8. Monaco Local population: 38,956 Tourists per year: 340,000 9. Malta Local population: 563,443 Tourists per year: 3,563,618 10. Hong Kong Local population: 7,414,909 Tourists per year: 44,500,000 11. Iceland Local population: 393,396 Tourists per year: 2,287,341 12. Croatia Local population: 3,875,325 Tourists per year: 21,300,000 13. Barbados Local population: 282,467 Tourists per year: 1,520,740 14. Switzerland Local population: 8,921,981 Tourists per year: 42,800,000 15. Grenada Local population: 117,081 Tourists per year: 504,000
Daily Mail
7 days ago
- Daily Mail
The most overcrowded tourist destinations in the world - with one European country taking the top spot
From the sandy beaches of the Bahamas, to the stunning landscapes in Iceland, it might not be surprising that such locations attract millions of tourists a year. Aside from visitors, locals impact how busy a destination may feel too, and in some cases tourists can exceed the residents. Go2Africa has ranked the 15 most crowded locations, and one European country sits at the top spot with a whopping 6,800,000 visits a year, compared to the tiny population of 882. The huge difference at Vatican City means locals are massively outnumbered by 7709.75 tourists to one. As the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church, Vatican City attracts many visitors for its religious and historical importance. Andorra, which is located between France and Spain, comes second with 9,600,000 tourists a year compared to its 81,938 local population. Known for its amazing ski spots, Andorra is home to the stunning mountains and is a popular destination for winter sports. So many people visit that there's 117.16 tourists per local annually. While San Marino, near north-central Italy, sees 2,000,000 travellers each year and is home to 33,581 people. San Marino has breath-taking scenery as well as plenty of historical monuments and buildings to attract visitors. The country sees 59.56 visitors per one resident each year. The Bahamas has a huge 11,220,000 influx of tourists on an annual basis, while 401,283 live there, placing it fourth. With clear blue waters and stunning beaches, tourists flock to the Bahamas on an annual basis to soak up the sun. Some 27.96 tourists dreamy Caribbean location per one local. At fifth, Saint Kitts and Nevis attracts 875,085 guests but has a population of 46,843 locals. The tropical Caribbean island was loved by Princess Diana and is known for its stunning beaches and lush landscapes, with 18.68 tourists per local. The top 15 most overcrowded destinations: 1. Vatican City Local population: 882 Tourists per year: 6,800,000 2. Andorra Local population: 81,938 Tourists per year: 9,600,000 3. San Marino Local population: 33,581 Tourists per year: 2,000,000 4. Bahamas Local population: 401,283 Tourists per year: 11,220,000 5. Saint Kitts and Nevis Local population: 46,843 Tourists per year: 875,085 6. Antigua and Barbuda Local population: 93,772 Tourists per year: 1,154,236 7. Bahrain Local population: 1,607,049 Tourists per year: 14,900,000 8. Monaco Local population: 38,956 Tourists per year: 340,000 9. Malta Local population: 563,443 Tourists per year: 3,563,618 10. Hong Kong Local population: 7,414,909 Tourists per year: 44,500,000 11. Iceland Local population: 393,396 Tourists per year: 2,287,341 12. Croatia Local population: 3,875,325 Tourists per year: 21,300,000 13. Barbados Local population: 282,467 Tourists per year: 1,520,740 14. Switzerland Local population: 8,921,981 Tourists per year: 42,800,000 15. Grenada Local population: 117,081 Tourists per year: 504,000
