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Though the dollar has lost some value, Americans seem to be addicted to the joys of travel: In 2006, about 63.7 million U.S. residents traveled outside the country’s borders, enjoying international and overseas destinations, and you may be surprised at the 20 most popular international vacation destinations for Americans:

Top 5:

• Mexico: With 19,659,000 U.S. residents visiting in 2006, this Spanish-speaking country is almost like our second home, ranking as the Number 1 vacation destination for Americans.
• Canada: Our neighbor to the north opens its doors to 13,855,000 travelers every year, treating us to superb ski slopes, delicious French cuisine and stunning views.
• United Kingdom: The United Kingdom — England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales — warmly received 3,286,000 American travelers in 2006, inviting them to enjoy the Emerald Isle, Big Ben and the brogue-laced Scottish countryside.
• France: With 2,231,000 visitors in 2006, travel to this francophone country was up 1 percent, as Americans walked the Champs Elysees, enjoyed the beauty of Provence, and took in the sites of the French Alps.
• Italy: With an 8 percent increase, Italy had 2,201,000 American visitors in 2006, treating them to gelato, real pesto and the delight of authentic Italian pastas.

The Top 20 are rounded out, in order, by Germany, Jamaica, Bahamas, Japan, People’s Republic of China, Spain, Netherlands, Hong Kong, India, Ireland, Republic of China (Taiwan), Switzerland, Republic of Korea, Australia, and Greece/Thailand (tie).

So which have you visited? Which are on your list?

This entry was posted on Wednesday, December 19th, 2007 and is filed under Vacation Destinations.