facts about travel destination

25 surprising travel facts that’ll make you see the world in a whole new light

Apr 2, 2020 • 8 min read

Travel: we sort of know all about it, right? Wrong. Scratch beneath the surface and it turns out we know nothing of this world. Do you know how long the world’s shortest commercial flight lasts, for example? (clue: shorter than the time it takes to boil an egg.) How about which country has no rivers? Or what unconventional pizza topping is popular in Sweden ?

With international travel currently off the table, why not use this time to swat up on surprising travel trivia, offering a few precious minutes of sweet relief from the constant news cycle and providing some fun facts to fill awkward pauses during video calls with friends and family; trust us, nothing plugs a silence better than a stat about how many steps from the nearest trash bin you are in Disneyland at all times.

Without further ado, here’s 25 travel facts that are certain to shock and surprise.

Trains, planes and automobiles...

1. The world’s longest commercial flight took around 30 hours.

The so-called ‘Double Sunrise’ service by Qantas, which ran from Australia to Sri Lanka from 1943-45, often lasted over 30 hours, with passengers seeing the sunrise twice. Today the longest commercial flight is the Singapore Airlines Singapore to New York route, with an average journey time of 17 hours and 50 minutes.

2. The shortest commercial flight takes less than two minutes.

Incredibly, the shortest commercial flight, operating between the neighbouring islands of Westray and Papa Westray in Scotland ’s Orkney islands , takes around one and a half minutes. With the fastest recorded flight taking less than 50 seconds.

3. Japanese railways hand out ‘certificates’ for delays of more than five minutes.

Japanese trains, reputedly the most punctual in the world, issue passengers with a ‘delay certificate’ if a train is running more than five minutes behind schedule. The documents can be shown to bosses or teachers to explain a passenger’s lateness. Delay certificates are also issued on some trains in Germany and in Paris .

4. The most expensive airport to city taxi ride costs around £190.

Any budget traveller worth their salt attempts to avoid airport taxis at all costs, but anyone keeping an eye on their finances should certainly avoid jumping in a cab from Tokyo ’s Narita Airport. According to a study by Moneycorp (a currency exchange company), the ride is the most expensive airport-to-city transfer in the world, costing an average of £191/$235 one way.

5. India’s trains transport roughly 23 million passengers each day.

That’s the entire population of Australia . Additionally, if laid out in a single line, the tracks from India’s railway network could circle the world one and a half times.

Things you didn’t know about countries…

6. Saudi Arabia has no rivers.

The country in the Arabian peninsula has no permanent rivers. It is one of the 17 countries in the world without a single river flowing through it.

7. In Ethiopia the current year is 2013.

Ethiopia maintains its own calendar, which, due to a difference in the perceived date of the Annunciation (the proclamation of the birth of Christ), is seven to eight years behind the Gregorian calendar (which is used as standard across most of the world). In Ethiopia the new year also begins on either August 29 or August 30.

8. It is the same time at both ends of China.

Despite spanning five geographical time zones, China only has one set time, which is observed throughout the country. China Standard Time is UTC+8.

9. The UK has the world’s longest country name.

The UK ’s official title of The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland makes it the longest recognised country name in the world.

10. Alaska is both the westernmost and easternmost state in the USA.

Alaska ’s Aleutian Islands are actually located west of the 180th Meridian (the line that divides the eastern and western hemisphere), making it the only US state to be partly located in the eastern hemisphere.

Foodie facts...

11. The most ordered meal on Deliveroo, a leading takeout app, in 2019 was a Hawaiian dish of raw fish. 

Of all the restaurants served by the app, which operates in over 200 cities around the world, the most ordered meal was the Poké Signature Super Protéiné – a Hawaiian dish with raw fish as the core ingredient – from restaurant Pokawa in the city of Paris . Less exotic, a humble cheeseburger from the London branch of chain restaurant Five Guys was the second most ordered dish on the app.

12. Russia only classified beer as an alcoholic drink in 2011

Remarkably before then any drink with less than 10% alcohol was considered a ‘foodstuff’.

13. Pilots and co-pilots do not eat the same meal before a flight.

As part of standard convention, pilots and co-pilots do not eat the same food before a flight in case of food poisoning (or worse). If one of the pilots is incapacitated (unable to leave the bathroom) then the other pilot can take over.

14. Banana is a popular pizza topping in Sweden.

Often paired with curry powder believe it or not.

15. Instant noodles topped a Japanese poll of the country’s greatest inventions of the 20th century.

In the poll, conducted in the year 2000 by Fuji Research Institute, respondents placed instant noodles at the top of the list, followed by karaoke in second place. Incidentally karaoke translates from Japanese into English as ‘empty orchestra’.

Lesser-known aspects of famous landmarks...

16. Despite what people say, the Great Wall of China is not visible from space.

Even from low Earth orbit the structure requires magnification to be seen by the human eye.

17. The Eiffel Tower was initially greatly disliked by the Parisian art community upon opening.

The iconic tower was labelled as ‘monstrous’ and ‘ridiculous’ after it was unveiled to the world. It’s even claimed that contemporary writer Guy de Maupassant disliked the structure so much that he ate lunch in the tower every day because it was the only place in Paris where the landmark was not visible. 

18. The scenic Great Ocean Road, that sweeps along the coast of Victoria, Australia, is actually a war memorial.

Built by soldiers and dedicated to those who lost their lives in WWI, the road serves as the largest war memorial in the world.

19. Sudan has more ancient pyramids than Egypt.

Sources vary, but Sudan is claimed to be home to around 250 pyramid structures, that were built by the rulers of the ancient Kushite kingdoms between 2500BC to 300AD. Egypt is thought to have just over 100 pyramids. 

20. The minarets of the Taj Mahal lean outwards slightly.

This was done deliberately to ensure that if the structure collapsed the minarets would fall away from the central tomb, and not destroy it. It’s also true that a team of 20,000 artisans and craftsmen built the iconic structure, but the popular story about them all being amputated by Shah Jahan, the ruler who commissioned it, upon completion (so they’d never build anything as beautiful), is most likely a myth.

Everything else...

21. There are currently 320,000 people learning ‘Klingon’ (the fictional language featured in television show Star Trek ) on language app Duolingo.

English is the most popular language on the app, with 34 million people undertaking lessons since the beginning of 2020. 

22. On the island of Yap, a state of Micronesia, rocks are used as currency.

Each rock’s worth is based on its size and its history (where it came from). Though US dollars have now started to be used for everyday purchases on the island, rocks are still used for ceremonial transactions (during weddings, for example). Yap also uses turmeric, shells and cloth as official currency.

23. If it was as densely populated as New York City, the entire world's population could fit into the US state of Texas.

We wouldn’t have all that much room, but, with the rest of the planet uninhabited, there’d be plenty of places to go to escape the crowds.

24. You’re never more than 30 steps away from a trash can in Disneyland.

The story goes that Walt Disney used to observe visitors in the park and see how many steps they took before littering, as a result a litter bin is never more than 30 steps away in any Disney park. Another of Walt’s lesser-known Disneyland additions was the creation of a secret bar hidden inside the – then otherwise 'dry' – park, which he used to entertain personal guests and sponsors. The speakeasy-style venue, located behind a large door in the New Orleans Square section of the park, now runs as a private members club with an annual membership fee of $10,000. 

25. You don't need to wait an hour after eating before you can swim safely.

Despite what your mother always told you, there is no medical data that suggests you can’t swim on a full stomach. It can, however, feel uncomfortable, and potentially lead to a feeling of nausea, so it’s best to take a short pause after polishing off your sandwich before you go crashing into the surf.

You might also like: Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Travel Quiz  The amazing history of the London Tube Relax and unwind with these 7 Slow TV travel vids

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50 Travel Fun Facts Every Travel Enthusiast Should Know

Are you an avid traveler? Do you have a passion for exploring new destinations and uncovering the hidden secrets of the world? If so, then this post is perfect for you! We’re about to share some incredible fun facts that will both surprise and inspire any travel enthusiast. From natural phenomena to historic sites, we’ll take a look at surprises from all over the globe – things that even those with years of travel experience may not know about. Take your knowledge up a notch with 50 fascinating Fun Facts every Travel Enthusiast should know!

The Great Barrier Reef in Australia

The Great Barrier Reef in Australia is an awe-inspiring wonder of our natural world. This magnificent coral reef system is the largest of its kind on Earth, spanning over 1400 miles along the northeast coast of Australia. The Great Barrier Reef is home to a vast array of marine life, making it the perfect spot for snorkeling, diving, and exploring all the incredible underwater treasures. Did you know that the Great Barrier Reef even has its airport on Hamilton Island? Imagine flying in and immediately being transported to a world filled with shimmering turquoise waters and rainbow-hued creatures. As a fun fact, the Great Barrier Reef is so massive it can be seen from outer space – how incredible is that? If you're looking for an unforgettable travel destination, the Great Barrier Reef should be at the top of your list.

Origin of "jet lag" term

Did you know that the term "jet lag" was only invented in 1966? Horace Sutton, a journalist from the Los Angeles Times, originally coined the phrase to describe the overwhelming feelings of fatigue and disorientation that come with rapidly traveling across multiple time zones. While it can be a highly disorienting experience, the fun fact behind jet lag is that it's only a temporary feeling, and it's a small price to pay for the incredible experience of discovering new cultures and places across the world. With this knowledge in mind, let's take on those jet-lagged feelings with excitement and anticipation for all the adventures that await us.

The world's busiest airport

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is not just any airport. It's the king of airports, the busy bee buzzing with energy and life. As the world's busiest airport by passenger traffic, it carries millions of travelers each year to destinations across the globe. Whether you're an Atlanta local, or just passing through, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a sight to behold. Here's a fun travel fact for you: did you know that in 2019, the airport served a staggering 110.5 million passengers? That's enough to make your head spin - and your heart race with wanderlust. As you stroll through the bustling terminal, take a moment to appreciate the excitement of travel and the possibilities it holds. The world is your oyster - and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the perfect launching point for your next adventure.

The world's shortest commercial flight

Have you ever heard of the shortest commercial flight in the world? It's a travel fun fact that might just blow your mind! The flight operates between Westray and Papa Westray, two beautiful and remote islands in Scotland's Orkney archipelago. With just a 1.7-mile air distance separating them, the flight takes an astonishingly short amount of time to complete - a mere 47 seconds , to be exact! But don't let the brevity of this flight fool you - it's a magnificent experience from start to finish, offering stunning views of the islands and their surrounding waters. Next time you're in Scotland, don't miss the chance to take this inspiring flight!

The longest non-stop commercial flight

If you're a travel enthusiast looking for an exhilarating experience, then you'll be thrilled to learn about the longest non-stop commercial flight currently operated by Singapore Airlines between Singapore and Newark, USA. Covering a distance of 15,344 km, this flight takes a whopping 18 hours and 45 minutes to complete, making it a true marvel of modern aviation. As you soar across the shores of the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, you'll get to witness breathtaking views and marvel at the sheer scale of our planet. This travel fun fact is certainly not for the faint-hearted, but for those seeking the ultimate adventure, it's an experience of a lifetime. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey.

The first scheduled passenger airline service

Travel enthusiasts, did you know that the first scheduled passenger airline service took place on January 1, 1914? That's right, it was a historic day for aviation when the world's first-ever daily scheduled flight took off from St. Petersburg to Tampa, Florida, USA. The brief 23 minutes journey covering a distance of 21 miles (34 kilometers) was a milestone in the history of transportation, marking a new era of convenience and accessibility. This fun fact of aviation history inspires us to appreciate the progress humans have made over the years in our quest for exploration and innovation.

The highest commercially navigable lake

Lake Titicaca is a place that makes you feel like you're on top of the world - quite literally. highest commercially navigable lake in the world, it's a destination that's sure to inspire. Travel to the Lake and you'll discover a natural wonder that's rich in history, culture, and fun facts that will leave an indelible impression on you. Picture yourself floating on a crystal clear lake, surrounded by stunning views of the Andes mountains, while learning about the ancient Inca civilization that once flourished on its shores. It's an experience that's truly unforgettable and one that's worth adding to your travel bucket list. So pack your bags and make your way to Lake Titicaca - the journey of a lifetime awaits!

The origin "all-inclusive resort" concept

The concept of all-inclusive resorts may seem like a modern-day invention designed to cater to the jet-setting needs of travelers, but did you know that the idea originated in the Caribbean over 70 years ago? It's true! The first all-inclusive resort opened its doors in 1950 in Jamaica, marking a new era of vacationing that has since become synonymous with fun, relaxation, and indulgence. Since then, all-inclusive resorts have grown in popularity, providing travelers with an easy way to escape the stresses of daily life and immerse themselves in exotic destinations without worrying about the small details. So next time you're looking for a travel fun fact to impress your friends and colleagues, remember that the Caribbean is the birthplace of all-inclusive resorts – a little piece of history that has changed the way we travel forever!

The origin of the "luggage carousel"

Imagine a world without luggage carousels! Thanks to engineer John Michael Lyons, we don't have to. In 1958, he invented the very first luggage carousel, a feat that has revolutionized the way we travel. This fun fact is not only a testament to Lyons' ingenuity and foresight but also a reminder of the power of invention. Just think of all the memories, experiences, and adventures each suitcase on that carousel represents. How inspiring to think that one person's idea could have such a profound impact on the way we explore the world. So next time you're waiting for your luggage, take a moment to marvel at the genius of the luggage carousel, and all the possibilities it allows.

The world's largest cruise ship

Embarking on a journey is always an exciting experience, but setting sail on the world's largest cruise ship is a whole new level of adventure. Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas has made waves in the cruise industry boasting an astounding capacity of over 6,600 passengers and a crew of around 2,200. This floating city-like vessel has everything from an ice skating rink to a zip line, and even a central park complete with real trees! If you're looking for a travel fun fact to impress your friends with, look no further than the Symphony of the Seas. Set sail on the ultimate cruise ship, and immerse yourself in luxury and endless entertainment.

The world's first hotel made entirely of ice and snow

The Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi , Sweden, is more than just a place to rest your head for the night – it's an architectural masterpiece. This unique hotel is the world's first made entirely of ice and snow, offering visitors an adventurous and unforgettable overnight experience. Each year, local builders use ice from the nearby Torne River to create this stunning work of art, which is open for guests from December to April. This travel fun fact is sure to inspire any wanderlust-prone individual to add Jukkasjärvi to their must-visit list. Imagine waking up in your cozy ice room, cuddled in layers of blankets, and gazing at the magnificent ice sculptures surrounding you. A trip to the Icehotel makes for a one-of-a-kind travel experience that will stay with you and inspire many great adventures to come.

The world's largest travel guidebook 

In the early 1970s, a young couple, Tony and Maureen Wheeler, embarked on a journey that would change the world of travel forever. They set off on an overland trip from London to Australia, and along the way, they documented their experiences, which later became the foundation for their travel guidebook publishing company, Lonely Planet . Since its inception in 1972, Lonely Planet has become the world's largest travel guidebook publisher, inspiring travelers to explore new destinations with its vast range of books and online resources. With over 500 titles in their collection, their remarkable success story is a true travel fun fact that reminds us how a simple passion for adventure and a willingness to share it can create an empire.

First travel insurance

Did you know that the concept of travel insurance has been around for centuries? It dates back to ancient China, where merchants would pay for protection against loss or theft during their journeys. This fascinating travel fun fact highlights the importance of having safeguarding measures in place when embarking on any adventure. It's inspiring to think that even in the past, people recognized the value of protecting themselves and their assets during travel. Today, we continue to benefit from the same principles as we enjoy exploring new horizons with peace of mind. Like the old Chinese merchants, we may not always know what lies ahead, but we can take comfort in knowing that we have the protection we need.

The first successful around-the-world flight 

The year 1933 marked a defining moment in aviation history when Wiley Post, the maverick American aviator, accomplished the impossible – the first around-the-world flight. From the small makeshift airstrip in New York to the distant shores of Berlin, Moscow, and Tokyo, Post journeyed an incredible 15,596 miles in just eight days, 15 hours, and 51 minutes, cementing his place in history as one of the greatest aviation pioneers of all time. This travel fun fact is nothing short of inspiring. It's a testament to the grit, determination, and courage of one man who dared to dream of a world where distance and time were mere concepts. Today, we honor Post and his legacy by pushing ourselves to go above and beyond the limits and aspirations of our predecessors.

The first person to travel around the world in less than 80 days

Imagine traveling around the world in less than 80 days, it sounds like the plot of a thrilling novel, but it was an incredible feat accomplished by American journalist Nellie Bly in 1889. The best-selling novel, "Around the World in Eighty Days," may have been fictional, but Bly's journey was real. The inspiring travel fun fact is that she managed to complete the journey in just 72 days, beating the fictional record set by Jules Verne's protagonist, Phileas Fogg. It was an incredible achievement, especially for a woman in the late 19th century, and her accomplishments paved the way for future female adventurers. Nellie Bly's record-breaking journey remains a historical and inspiring event to many today.

The origin of backpacking as a travel-style concept

The 1960s and 1970s were a revolutionary time in the world of travel. Young people started to explore the world with nothing but a backpack on their shoulders and a sense of adventure in their hearts. This travel style, known as backpacking, quickly gained popularity as more and more people sought to break away from the ordinary and explore the world around them. What's fascinating is that budget limitations didn't deter these travelers from seeking amazing experiences and making unforgettable memories. It's a true testament to the power of wanderlust and the incredible things that can be achieved when you set your mind to it. The concept of backpacking continues to inspire and attract adventurers to this day, proving that travel is so much more than just a vacation - it's a way of life.

The Origin of the Couchsurfing Concept

Are you ready for a fun travel fact that will inspire you to see the world in a new light? Enter Couchsurfing, the amazing hospitality exchange community that connects travelers with locals around the globe. Founded in 2004, Couchsurfing has grown into a global platform that challenges traditional travel norms by offering the opportunity for travelers to stay with friendly locals for free. Through Couchsurfing, travelers can immerse themselves in local cultures and get a unique insider's perspective on their destination. But Couchsurfing is so much more than just a place to stay - it's a community of passionate and open-minded individuals who share a love for adventure and cultural exchange. So pack your bags and join the Couchsurfing community to experience the world in a whole new way!

The Origin of the Gap Years Concept

Imagine the world as your classroom - where learning doesn't just happen in classrooms but expands to adventures that offer diverse experiences and cultures to explore. Enter gap years: a concept that originated in the United Kingdom in the 1960s that's taking the world by storm. Instead of rushing through their studies, students take a break to travel or pursue other experiences that ignite their passions and broaden their horizons. Fun fact - gap years have proven to benefit both personal development and career-building since it allows individuals to gain new, unique perspectives that give them a competitive edge in the job market. It's inspiring to think about the infinite possibilities that await anyone who decides to embark on a gap year adventure. So, are you ready to take the leap and experience all that the world has to offer?

The world's first Postcards

Traveling is a beautiful experience, and sending postcards is used to add to the excitement. Did you know that the concept of postcards originated in Austria in the 1860s? It's an inspiring fun fact to learn that Austria allowed postcards to be sent with a message on one side and an address on the other, becoming the very first country in the world to do so. Postcards became increasingly popular amongst travelers as a way to stay connected with loved ones back home while enjoying their adventures. Austria paved the way for one of the most treasured traditions in the world of travel. Nowadays, postcards may seem a bit outdated, but they continue to inspire and add to the beauty of traveling.

 We would like to take this opportunity to remind you that we have decks of different editions of challenges for you to do during your vacation. As such, this is one of the random challenges that may appear in the Original Edition of the Travel Challenges deck: 

The world's oldest-known travel agency

Did you know that the world's oldest known travel agency is Cox & Kings , established in 1758 in India? What started as a small business arranging transportation for British army officers has now become a global player in the travel industry. It's inspiring to think about how this company has been able to stay relevant for over two centuries, adapting to the changing times and catering to the needs of travelers from all over the world. This travel fun fact reminds us that the desire to explore new places and experience new cultures is something that has been around for centuries and will continue to inspire generations to come.

The origin of the "hotel" concept

Have you ever wondered where the word "hotel" comes from? It turns out that the word is derived from the French word "hôtel," which referred to a townhouse or mansion. It wasn't until later that the meaning of the word shifted to refer to an establishment that provides accommodation. Knowing the origins of this common word is a fun fact to keep in mind as you travel and stay in hotels around the world. It's a reminder of how language can evolve and take on new meanings over time. So next time you're staying in a hotel, take a moment to reflect on the history behind the world and appreciate the journey it has taken to get to where it is today.

The world's first hotel

Nestled in the mountains of Japan lies a hidden gem that has been standing for over a thousand years. The Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan is the world's oldest hotel, dating back to the year 705 AD! Imagine the stories and history that this hotel has witnessed over the centuries. As a traveler, staying at this hotel would be an unforgettable experience, and a fun fact to share with friends and family. It's inspiring to think that a place like this continues to stand strong, welcoming new guests for generations. The Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan is a true testament to the resilience and beauty of Japan's ancient culture.

The first commercial hot air balloon flight

In 1783, a group of spectators in France looked up to witness history being made. The first commercial hot air balloon flight had just taken place, propelling humans into the sky in a way they had never experienced before. The balloon was called "Aerostat Réveillon" and flew for about 5.5 miles (9 kilometers). This monumental achievement was not only a major technological advancement, but it opened up new travel opportunities. Suddenly, people could reach heights and destinations that were once unreachable. This fun fact about the first commercial hot air balloon flight reminds us that innovation and exploration have always been a part of human nature and that we should never stop pushing the boundaries of what we know and what we can achieve.

The first recorded use of the term "sightseeing"

It's amazing to consider that the practice of sightseeing, something that we take for granted today, has been around for centuries. The first recorded use of the term "sightseeing" can be traced back to 1768 in the journal of James Boswell . This remarkable travel fun fact underscores just how long humanity has been fascinated with exploring new places and seeing all that the world has to offer. As we embark on our adventures today, let's take a moment to appreciate the pioneers like Boswell who paved the way for us to experience the excitement and wonder of travel.

The first-ever recorded travel guide

Did you know that the first-ever recorded travel guide was written by a Greek geographer named Pausanias in the 2nd century CE? His work described the most fascinating landmarks and destinations in ancient Greece, helping travelers find their way and experience the beauty of this historic land. It's amazing to consider how far we've come since those ancient times, with travel guides now available for every corner of the globe. And yet, Pausanias' work serves as a testament to the timeless appeal of exploring new places and discovering the wonders that await. Let us be inspired by Pausanias' legacy and continue to seek out adventure, wherever it may take us.

The world's fastest train

The Shanghai Maglev Train is truly the epitome of modern transportation engineering. This maglev train operates in Shanghai, China, and is known to be the fastest train in the world, surpassing even the bullet trains in Japan. The Shanghai Maglev Train operates at incredible speeds of up to 430 km/h and only takes 8 minutes to travel the 30 km distance between Shanghai's Pudong International Airport and the city's financial district. With its sleek, futuristic design and state-of-the-art technology, the Shanghai Maglev Train provides a memorable experience for passengers who are keen on speed and advanced engineering. It's a fun fact to know that you can travel at such an impressive speed using one mode of transportation, inspiring us to think that the future of travel is indeed exciting!

The world's largest airport

The King Fahd International Airport in Dammam is a true testament to the grandeur and vision of the Saudi Arabian government. As the world's largest airport, it spans over 780 square kilometers and can accommodate up to 80 million passengers annually. That's a staggering figure! But, did you know that it also boasts one of the largest dome structures in the world, covering an area of 32,000 square meters? As you travel through the airport, you can't help but feel inspired by the sheer size of the space and the endless opportunities for exploration and adventure that await. It truly is a magnificent feat of engineering and design, and a fun fact to share with fellow travelers.

The first known recorded travel diary

Did you know that the first known recorded travel diary was written by Xu Xiake , a Chinese travel writer, in the 17th century? Xu Xiake's travel diary details his extensive travels throughout China and offers an inspiring glimpse into the beauty and wonder of the country he loved. His writings are a testament to the joy and adventure that can be found in travel and serve as a reminder that even in times of uncertainty and difficulty, the world is full of amazing places waiting to be explored. So the next time you embark upon a journey, remember Xu Xiake's legacy and let his travel fun fact inspire you to discover all that the world has to offer.

The world's largest salt flat

Pack your bags, traveler, because one of the most awe-inspiring sights on Earth awaits you. Welcome to the Salar de Uyuni , the world's largest salt flat located in Bolivia. This natural wonder spans over 4,000 square miles and is comprised of over 10 billion tons of salt. It's impossible not to feel small in front of the vastness of this radiant salt flat. Besides its sheer size, the Salar de Uyuni holds another fun fact: it's so flat that NASA uses it to calibrate satellites. Imagine being able to stand on a piece of ground so level and smooth, you're used to help guide spacecraft through the cosmos! Take in this natural marvel with your own eyes and let the Salar de Uyuni take your breath away.

The ancient city of Petra in Jordan and the rock-cut architecture

Exploring Petra, the ancient city that served as a crucial trading hub, is an experience that will leave you awestruck. The elaborate rock-cut architecture, including the famous Treasury, is a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the people who lived there. Fun fact: Petra was established as early as 312 BCE and is one of the few cities in the world where cars are not allowed, which means you get to explore this incredible architectural wonder on foot. Walking through the narrow canyon and coming face to face with the stunning sandstone structures is an experience you won't soon forget. A visit to Petra is a must for any travel bucket list.

The lowest point on Earth's surface

Imagine swimming in a body of water so dense that you can't even sink. That is the unique experience that awaits you at the Dead Sea in Jordan and Israel, the lowest point on Earth's surface. This natural wonder boasts a high concentration of salt and minerals, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking some R&R. Did you know that people have been visiting the Dead Sea for thousands of years to soak in its healing waters? Whether you're there for a luxurious spa day or just want to float on the surface of the water, the Dead Sea is a travel fun fact that will leave you feeling inspired by all the wonders the world has to offer.

The world's lowest country

Did you know that the Maldives holds the title of being the world's lowest country in terms of average ground level? The stunning archipelago, composed of 26 atolls, is situated in the Indian Ocean and boasts breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. With its highest point only 7.8 feet (2.4 meters) above sea level, it's no wonder why this travel fun fact is so intriguing. Despite this remarkable characteristic, the Maldives remains an inviting destination for travelers from all over the world. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this unique paradise!

The world's largest hotel

The First World Hotel in Malaysia is not just any ordinary hotel, as it is the world's largest hotel, boasting over 7,351 rooms! This is more than just a travel fun fact, as the hotel's impressive size and scale are truly inspiring. It almost feels like a mini city within itself and staying here is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Imagine walking through the hotel lobby, surrounded by an endless sea of rooms and a bustling crowd of fellow travelers, all eager to explore the wonders of Malaysia. If that doesn't make you want to pack your bags and book a ticket, I don't know what will!

The city with the most Michelin-starred restaurants

If you're a food lover, then there's no better city to visit than Tokyo. This vibrant metropolis is home to over 230 Michelin-starred restaurants, making it the city with the most Michelin-starred establishments in the world . From sushi to ramen, tempura to teppanyaki, Tokyo has it all. Each restaurant offers its unique take on the cuisine, from the traditional to the cutting edge. So, if you want to satiate your culinary curiosity, hop on a flight to Tokyo, and explore this amazing city's gastronomic delights. After all, experiencing the world's most Michelin-starred restaurants is one of the best fun facts to share with your friends.

The world's largest pilgrimage

For Muslims traveling to Mecca , it is the ultimate spiritual journey. Mecca is the world's largest pilgrimage site, drawing millions of Muslims from all corners of the globe for the Hajj pilgrimage. As visitors approach the city, they're enveloped in the enthusiasm and devotion of fellow Muslims. The city is an incredible display of devotion, piety, and unity, creating an atmosphere that is truly awe-inspiring. In addition to its spiritual significance, Mecca is also a fascinating travel fun fact to share with others. Its incredible size and the sheer number of visitors during the Hajj are a testament to the strength of faith that exists within the Muslim community. The Hajj pilgrimage is a life-changing experience for all who participate, and it's no wonder that so many Muslims from around the world make the journey to Mecca each year.

The world's tallest waterfall

Angel Falls stands tall and mighty, being the world’s highest uninterrupted waterfall. Located in Venezuela, the falls have captivated the hearts of travelers from all over the world, leaving them in awe of its stunning natural beauty. At 979 meters, the falls are higher than the Eiffel Tower and almost three times the size of Niagara Falls. But that's not just it! A fun fact about these falls is that Angel Falls was named after an American aviator, Jimmy Angel, who discovered the falls while flying over the area in the 1930s. This incredible waterfall is a must-see for any travel bucket list, inspiring anyone who lays eyes on its grandeur. 

In addition, I'm taking this opportunity to show you another example of a card that could appear in our Original Edition of Travel Challenges : 

The country with the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Italy is a country that boasts of unparalleled cultural and artistic heritage. What’s even more impressive is that Italy is home to the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world, with over fifty-nine sites already inscribed on the list. From the majestic Colosseum and the iconic Piazza del Duomo in Florence to the remarkably preserved ruins of Pompeii and the beautiful city of Venice that's built on water, Italy has something for everyone. Exploring these sites is not only informative but also awe-inspiring, and it's no wonder why Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The travel fun fact that Italy has the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites is just one of the many reasons to visit this vibrant country and immerse oneself in its rich history and culture.

The city with the most international visitors per year

Bangkok is a bustling city that continuously draws in travelers from all over the world. It holds the title of being the city with the highest number of international visitors per year! This travel fun fact showcases the immense appeal that Bangkok has, from its vibrant street markets and mouth-watering food scene to its jaw-dropping temples and lively nightlife. It's no wonder that people from all walks of life yearn to explore this unique city. Whether you're a foodie, a shopaholic, a history buff, or simply looking for an adventure, Bangkok has something to offer for everyone. So pack your bags and set off to experience the wonders of this mesmerizing city for yourself!

The largest religious monument in the world

As you embark on your journey to the Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia, you'll be visiting the largest religious monument in the world. The jaw-dropping scale and intricate detail of the temple complex is inspiring, and a testament to the skills of the Khmer people who built it nearly a thousand years ago. It's hard not to feel awe-inspired by the sheer size of Angkor Wat, which covers over 160 hectares of land. As you explore the intricate carvings and ancient architecture of this stunning complex, you'll be taken on a journey through history and spirituality. Truly, a visit to Angkor Wat is a must-have travel experience for any lover of adventure and culture. And, of course, it's always fun to have a fascinating fact to share with your friends and family!

The Statue of Liberty in New York City was a gift from France

For over a century, the Statue of Liberty has been greeting visitors to New York City's harbor as a symbol of freedom and democracy. Gifted to the United States by France in 1886, the statue stands tall at 305 feet, weighing 225 tons. This beloved icon is not only a popular tourist destination but also a reminder of the ideals that our country was built upon. It's fascinating to think that the statue's creator, Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, initially intended to have it placed at the entrance of the Suez Canal. However, after being turned down by the Egyptian government, he presented the idea to the United States and the rest is history. For a travel fun fact, did you know that the seven spikes on the crown of the statue represent the seven continents and seven seas of the world? A visit to the Statue of Liberty is not only an awe-inspiring experience but also a reminder of the ongoing fight for freedom and democracy for all.

The longest suspension bridge in the world

If you're a traveler looking for an impressive sight to add to your bucket list, the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge in Japan is a marvel to behold. This suspension bridge stretches an incredible 6,532 feet (1,991 meters), making it the longest in the world. But it's not just its size that's impressive - the bridge is also a testament to Japanese engineering and ingenuity. Its construction required incredibly precise design and execution, and the final product is a breathtaking feat of human achievement. Whether you're an engineer or not, visiting the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge is a fun fact to share with friends and family, and a reminder of what can be accomplished when humans put their minds to something truly incredible.

Home of the "Big Five" game animals

The African savanna is the ultimate destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Its vast expanse serves as a home to some of the most iconic creatures on the planet, the "Big Five" game animals. Majestic lions roam freely, fiercely protective of their territories and pride. Massive elephants gracefully strut through the lands, trumpeting in triumph. Rhinoceroses dominate the terrain with their sheer size and strength, while elusive leopards silently stalk their prey. Buffalos, on the other hand, move in herds, roaming together and providing a stunning sight to behold. Travelers who dream of being part of this incredible ecosystem need to head over to the African savanna, where these magnificent creatures reign supreme. It's a fun fact that one can never get enough of – the African savanna is truly one of the most breathtaking places in the world.

The birthplace of jazz

New Orleans, the city of soulful jazz, is a place that ignites the senses and transports the soul to a realm of pure musical magic. Known as the birthplace of jazz, this vibrant city boasts a rich and diverse musical heritage that is celebrated year-round. From street musicians to world-famous jazz clubs, music can be heard echoing through the streets day and night. Every spring, the Jazz and Heritage Festival takes center stage and draws music lovers from across the globe to soak up the infectious energy of this city. A travel fun fact to keep in mind - the famous jazz funeral originated in New Orleans, where they celebrate life and honor their loved ones with a musical procession through the streets. It's no wonder New Orleans has earned the title of "the city that care forgot" - once you're there, the joy-filled energy of the music scene will stay with you long after you leave.

The busiest pedestrian crossing in the world

Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, is home to the world-famous Shibuya Crossing - known to be the busiest pedestrian crossing on the planet. With over 2,500 people crossing this intersection simultaneously during peak rush hours, it's a sight to behold. But what's even more impressive is the energy and vibrancy that Tokyo exudes. From its delicious food to its innovative technology and unique fashion, the city is a hub of cultural and technological excellence. Tokyo is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience a bustling and vibrant metropolis. It's more than just a fun fact; it's an inspiring testament to the city's spirit and its people.

The world's largest natural reserve

Imagine standing in the middle of the largest natural reserve in the world, surrounded by pristine glaciers, towering peaks, and a vast expanse of untouched wilderness. Northeast Greenland National Park is a wonderland waiting to be explored, and it boasts some of the most awe-inspiring sights on the planet. Covering an area of over 970,000 square kilometers, this vast reserve is not only home to an incredible variety of species, but it's also a significant travel destination. Did you know that the park is larger than all of California and three times the size of Texas combined? There's no doubt that visitors to this incredible landscape will be awestruck by its sheer size, beauty, and majesty. So pack your bags and prepare to embark on an adventure that you'll never forget - Northeast Greenland National Park is calling!

Greenland is an awe-inspiring destination that sits at the top of the world. It is the largest island in the world and is known for its pristine nature, rugged coastline, and stunning glaciers. Located in the northernmost part of the Atlantic Ocean, it is also one of the least populated places on Earth. Traveling to Greenland is an adventure like no other, starting from the moment you set foot on this majestic island. So pack your bags and get ready to explore one of the most breathtaking places on the planet - Greenland!

Longest world's longest town name

As you embark on your journey through Wales, make sure to take a pit stop in a town that holds the title of the world's longest town name! Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch may be a mouthful to pronounce, but the fun facts are worth the effort! This picturesque town with a population of only 3,000 boasts the Guinness World Record for having the longest place name in the world. Its name translates to "Saint Mary's Church in the hollow of the white hazel near a rapid whirlpool and the Church of St. Tysilio of the red cave". The town has become a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, charming picturesque houses, and fascinating history. So indulge in this travel fun fact and add Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch to your bucket list!

World’s shortest geographical place name

Å is not only the shortest geographical place name in the world, but also a unique travel destination that is sure to leave you inspired. Located in the Lofoten Islands of Norway, this small fishing village may be compact in name, but it offers big experiences for visitors seeking adventure. Imagine exploring rugged mountain landscapes while taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding sea. Or, diving into the deep blue waters for an up-close encounter with the Norwegian marine life. Whether you're an adventure-seeker or simply looking for a fun fact to share with friends, Å is a destination that's worth including on your travel itinerary.

Paris syndrome

Paris, known to many as the City of Love, may surprise you with its lesser-known syndrome that can affect certain travelers. Paris Syndrome is a condition where tourists become overwhelmed by the difference between their high expectations of the city and the reality they experience. However, don't let this deter you from experiencing the magic of one of the world's most iconic cities. With so much to see and do, Paris offers something for everyone, from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum. Plus, did you know that the city is home to the world's first-ever public park, the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont? With such a rich history and beauty, Paris is still very much worth a visit. So go ahead and immerse yourself in all the stunning sights and sounds without worrying about Paris Syndrome, as long as you come prepared to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

24/7 free wine fountain

If you are a wine lover, you might want to pack your bags and head straight to Italy. Located in the small town of Ortona in the Abruzzo region , there is a marvelous 24/7 free wine fountain that will leave you in awe. Yes, you heard it right - a free wine fountain! This is not just any ordinary fountain but it is a wonderful work of art that dispenses red wine for all visitors, day and night. The fountain has become a must-visit for travelers from all over the world, making it a true travel fun fact. So, what are you waiting for? Add this to your bucket list, and indulge yourself in a heavenly wine experience! 

The most linguistically diverse country

Papua New Guinea isn't just another beautiful travel destination - it's home to the world's most diverse linguistic landscape. With over 800 languages spoken across its unique terrain, Papua New Guinea is the ultimate cultural immersive experience. Exploring the country means diving into a world of vibrant new sounds and words, hearing languages heard nowhere else on the planet. From the highlands to the coast, the dialects will change fluidly, each with its own history and local traditions. It's a thrilling opportunity to gain insight into the intricacies and beauty of human communication - all while having the trip of a lifetime.

Drawing from all the amazing places and adventures present around the world, these 50 fun facts about travel bring to light the exciting cultures that take part in traveling. These cool and interesting facts encourage those with a sense of exploration in their soul to get out there and discover everything that our planet has to offer. Variety abounds, and traveling is one of the best ways to deepen your knowledge and understanding of our global community. From peculiar practices to incredible new sights, every trip is a journey full of excitement and discovery. If you're looking for some guidance on where to go next, why not try Sweden? After exploring this unique destination through these fascinating travel facts, get ready for an experience like no other with one of our decks of cards filled with 50 fun ideas ! Don't wait any longer - make 2020 the year you grow your wanderlust!

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50 Unusual Travel Facts You Need To Know Before Planning Your Next Vacation

These lesser-known facts about some of the world's most intriguing destinations will help make or break your future travel plans.

That's why the folks at Property Turkey put together a handy fact sheet, detailing some of the most interesting and weirdest facts about 50 destinations around.

For instance, animal lovers may want to head to the Falkland Islands, where sheep outnumber people 200 to 1 . Or you could make your way to India and spend time with the country's 270 million cows.

Maybe you're more of a nature person. If so, Iran is home to the world's second oldest tree , while Siberia's unspoiled and dense forests produce most of Earth's oxygen. Traveling there means you can literally breathe easy. On the other hand, Haiti has virtually no trees   due to massive deforestation.

If you're simply looking for a fun fact to throw out at your next cocktail party, how about this: In Japan, they grow their watermelons square .  

Check out all 50 fascinating facts below.

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25 Unique Travel Fun Facts That Will Inspire Your Adventure

Last Updated on May 31, 2024 by The Digital Travel Expert

Discover fascinating travel fun facts and stories from the world’s tallest waterfall to the coldest inhabited place on Earth that will ignite your wanderlust.

Uncover unique tidbits that will inspire your next adventure

There are a lot of interesting travel fun facts remind us what’s cool about traveling a step into a real-life adventure book! And here’s a fun fact to spice up your day: Did you know that there’s a hotel in Japan that has been open since 705 AD?

Are you ready to embark on a journey through the fascinating world of travel? Whether you’re a seasoned globe-trotter or a newbie adventurer, there’s always something new and exciting to learn about the places we visit.

Get ready for a whirlwind tour of 25 unique travel fun facts that will leave you itching to pack your bags and hit the road!

Table of Contents

25 Interesting Travel Fun Facts

Disclaimer: While I endeavored to gather cool and interesting travel facts, I must disclose that I cannot guarantee their 100% accuracy due to the dynamic nature of travel statistics and facts and information availability.

Let’s get to it.

1. The Great Wall of China: Did you know that the Great Wall of China is not actually visible from space with the naked eye? Despite what popular belief might suggest, it’s nearly impossible to spot this ancient wonder from orbit without the aid of magnification.

2. The Longest Flight: If you’re a fan of long-haul flights, you might be interested to know that the longest commercial flight in the world is from Singapore to New York City, covering a whopping distance of over 9,500 miles in approximately 18 hours!

3. The Deepest Lake: Lake Baikal in Siberia holds the title of the world’s deepest lake, plunging to depths of over 5,300 feet. Not only is it incredibly deep, but it also contains around 20% of the world’s unfrozen freshwater.

4. The Busiest Air Route: Want to take a guess at the busiest air route in the world? It’s not New York to Los Angeles or London to Paris. It’s actually the short hop between Seoul and Jeju Island in South Korea, with millions of passengers flying this route each year.

5. The Oldest Hotel: The Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan in Japan holds the Guinness World Record for being the oldest hotel in the world, continuously operated since it first opened its doors in 705 AD!

6. The Largest Palace: You might think Buckingham Palace takes the crown, but it’s actually the Istana Nurul Iman Palace in Brunei that holds the title of the worlds largest palace, boasting over 2.1 million square feet of floor space.

7. The Tallest Waterfall: Venezuela’s Angel Falls is not only the tallest waterfall on Earth, plunging an astonishing 3,212 feet, but it’s also one of the most breathtaking sights you’ll ever lay eyes on.

8. The Northernmost Capital: Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, holds the distinction of being the world’s northernmost capital city, earning it the nickname “The Land of Fire and Ice.”

9. The Largest Desert: When you think of deserts, you probably picture the Sahara, but did you know that Antarctica is actually the largest desert in the world? With its icy landscapes and barren terrain, it’s the ultimate frozen wasteland.

10. The Most Linguistically Diverse Country: Papua New Guinea takes the prize for being the most linguistically diverse country in the world, with over 850 languages spoken among its population of just 8 million people!

11. The Busiest Subway System: Think New York City has the busiest subway system? Think again! Tokyo’s subway network carries over 3.1 billion passengers annually, making it the busiest in the world.

12. The Shortest Commercial Flight: On the other end of the spectrum, the shortest commercial flight in the world operates between the Scottish islands of Westray and Papa Westray, spanning a distance of just 1.7 miles and lasting a mere 90 seconds!

13. The Coldest Inhabited Place: Welcome to Oymyakon, Russia, the coldest inhabited place on Earth, where temperatures regularly plummet to bone-chilling lows of minus 50 degrees Celsius (-58 degrees Fahrenheit)!

14. The Most Remote Island: Tristan da Cunha, located in the South Atlantic Ocean, holds the title of being the most remote inhabited island in the world, with the nearest inhabited landmass over 1,500 miles away.

15. The Smallest Country: Vatican City may be small in size, covering just 44 hectares (about 110 acres), but it’s big in significance as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church.

16. The Only City Spanning Two Continents: Istanbul, Turkey, is the only city in the world that straddles two continents, with its historic center situated in Europe and its more modern districts located in Asia.

17. The Most UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Italy is a treasure trove of cultural and historical wonders, boasting more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other country on the planet, with a grand total of 58 sites.

18. The Busiest Airport: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in the United States consistently ranks as the busiest airport in the world in terms of passenger traffic, with millions of travelers passing through its gates each year.

19. The Highest Capital City: La Paz, Bolivia, holds the distinction of being the world’s highest capital city, nestled in the Andes Mountains at an elevation of over 11,900 feet above sea level.

20. The Longest Beach: If you’re a beach lover, you’ll want to visit Cox’s Bazar in Bangladesh, home to the world’s longest natural sea beach, stretching uninterrupted for an astonishing 75 miles along the Bay of Bengal.

21. The Largest Cave: Son Doong Cave in Vietnam is not only the largest cave in the world by volume, but it’s also a subterranean wonderland filled with lush jungles, underground rivers, and towering stalagmites.

22. The Most Visited City: Bangkok, Thailand, consistently ranks as the most visited city in the world, thanks to its vibrant street life, rich cultural heritage, and mouthwatering cuisine that draws millions of tourists each year.

23. The Fastest Roller Coaster: Adrenaline junkies, listen up! Formula Rossa, located at Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi, holds the title of the world’s fastest roller coaster, reaching speeds of up to 149 miles per hour in just 4.9 seconds!

24. The Largest Volcano: While Mount Everest is the tallest mountain on Earth, Mauna Loa in Hawaii is the largest volcano by volume, rising over 13,600 feet above sea level and extending another 16,400 feet below the ocean surface.

25. The Most Remote National Park: Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve in Alaska is not only the largest national park in the United States but also one of the most remote, offering rugged wilderness and unparalleled natural beauty for intrepid adventurers.

And there you have it, folks! 25 mind-blowing travel fun facts that will inspire you to explore the far corners of our incredible planet. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure today and discover even more amazing wonders waiting to be uncovered!

Power of Travel Fun Facts

The travel and tourism industry is about people and destination. Understanding travel fun facts about a destination isn’t just about accumulating trivia; it’s about forging a deeper connection with the places you visit and enriching your experience through travel storytelling .

Here are several advantages of knowing travel fun facts when planning a trip.

1. Cultural Appreciation: Learning about the history, customs, and traditions of a destination through fun facts allows you to appreciate its culture on a deeper level. You’ll gain insight into the local way of life, which can enhance your interactions with residents and help you understand the significance behind certain landmarks or rituals.

2. Personal Connection: Fun facts create a personal connection between you and the destination. Whether it’s discovering a shared interest, uncovering a hidden gem, or learning about the origin of a famous landmark, knowing these tidbits adds depth to your travel experience and fosters a sense of belonging.

3. Memorable Stories: Travel Fun Facts serve as the building blocks for memorable stories. When you weave these intriguing tidbits into your narratives, you not only entertain your audience but also evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity about the places you’ve explored. These stories become cherished memories that you can share with friends and family for years to come.

4. Enhanced Exploration: Armed with knowledge about a destination’s unique features and attractions , you can tailor your itinerary to include must-see sites and off-the-beaten-path gems that align with your interests. Whether it’s visiting the oldest hotel in the world, sampling street food from a bustling market, or exploring a hidden cave system, knowing fun facts enhances your exploration and allows you to delve deeper into the destination’s essence.

5. Cultural Sensitivity: Being aware of cultural norms and etiquette can help you navigate unfamiliar environments with respect and sensitivity. By learning about local customs and traditions, you can avoid inadvertently offending residents and foster positive interactions that promote cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

6. Educational Value: Traveling is an opportunity for lifelong learning, and travel fun facts add an educational dimension to your adventures. Whether you’re discovering the geological wonders of a region, unraveling the mysteries of ancient civilizations, or marveling at architectural feats, each fun fact contributes to your overall knowledge and appreciation of the world.

7. Inspiration for Future Travel: Travel fun facts often spark curiosity and inspire further exploration. By uncovering intriguing tidbits about a destination, you may find yourself drawn to similar places or themes for future trips. Whether it’s seeking out more UNESCO World Heritage Sites, exploring culinary delights from around the world, or embarking on adrenaline-pumping adventures , fun facts serve as a springboard for future travel adventures.

In summary, knowing travel fun facts adds depth, meaning, and storytelling potential to your travel experiences. By connecting with the destination on a personal level, crafting memorable stories, and enhancing your exploration, fun facts enrich your journey and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the diverse wonders of our world. So, the next time you plan a trip, don’t forget to delve into the fascinating world of travel fun facts—you never know what amazing discoveries await!

FAQs about Travel Fun Facts

Did you know fun facts about travel longest place name.

The longest place name in the world is Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapiki-maungahoronukupokaiwhenuakitnatahu? Yup, that’s a mouthful! It’s a hill in New Zealand, and locals often shorten it to Taumata for obvious reasons.

What are 5 facts about tourism?

Here are five cool fun facts about tourism history: The Grand Tour: Wealthy Europeans embarked on the “Grand Tour” during the 17th and 18th centuries, traveling through major cultural centers to enrich their education and social status. Thomas Cook: In 1841, Thomas Cook organized the first-ever package tour, offering train tickets, meals, and accommodations, pioneering modern mass tourism. Pan American World Airways: Pan Am, founded in 1927, revolutionized air travel by offering the first transatlantic passenger flights, making global tourism more accessible. The Jet Age: The introduction of jet aircraft in the 1950s dramatically reduced travel times, fueling a surge in international tourism and making distant destinations more reachable. Space Tourism: While still in its infancy, space tourism became a reality in 2001 when Dennis Tito became the first private citizen to travel to space, opening up a new frontier for adventurous travelers.

What are 3 unique facts about travel?

Jet Lag Is Real: Traveling across time zones can disrupt your body’s internal clock, leading to fatigue, insomnia, and mood swings. It’s like your body’s way of saying, “Wait, what time is it again?” Airport Codes Tell Stories: Ever notice those three-letter airport codes? They’re not just random letters; they often reflect the city’s name, history, or nearby landmarks. So next time you’re flying into JFK or LAX, you’ll know there’s more to those letters than meets the eye. Wanderlust Is Contagious: Once you catch the travel bug, there’s no going back. Exploring new places, meeting diverse people, and experiencing different cultures become addictive, leaving you constantly craving your next adventure. Consider yourself warned—once you start, you might never want to stop!

Additional resources: Interesting Facts You Didn’t Know About Dubai

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50 Fascinating Travel Facts

Fun and Fascinating Facts About Travelling

Finland has around 180,000 islands., san marino has more cars in its country than people., jet lag feels worse if you travel from west to east. research done in 2016 found that jet lag feels worse if you travel from west to east. resynchronization of circadian oscillators and the east-west asymmetry of jet-lag… find out more., iran is home to the second oldest tree on earth, it is 4000-years-old., travel can make you more creative., travel can help improve your problem-solving skills., taking a vacation can lower your risk of heart disease., the largest underground cemetery in the world is located in paris., frequent flying leads to weight gain. the most at risk group are business travellers who board a plane more than 21 days per month., the shortest airline flight available for purchase lasts two minutes and runs from the scottish island of westray to papa westray., the worlds most expensive hotel room costs £63,415 a night, at hotel president wilson in geneva, the royal penthouse suite., women who travel on vacation at least twice a year are less likely to suffer from depression., france is the most visited country in the world, with over 82 million international visitors per year., only 29% of americans have even been abroad., the most intelligent country is canada., dubai owns 20% of the world’s cranes., about 10 million people in the world go on a cruise every year., the komodo dragon is the largest living lizard., the vatican’s swiss guard still wears a uniform inspired by the renaissance painter raphael., 99% of the territory of libya, is deserts., russia is bigger than pluto., papua new guinea speaks the most number of languages in the world, 820., denmark has twice the number of bicycles as cars., australia has approximately 23 million people and around 60 million kangaroos., the great barrier reef is the only living structure that can be spotted from outer space., canada has 3,000,000 lakes. it is more than all over the world combined., within the next 60 seconds, over 56 pieces of luggage have been lost and over 2,174 people have arrived in a foreign country., chine covers five times zone, however, the whole of china operates on beijing time., st. petersburg’s st. isaac’s cathedral rests on 10,000 tree trunks, sunken into the marshy ground below., 71% of europeans have a passport., the himalayas contains nine of the world’s ten highest peaks., there are around 7,000 flights in the air at any one time., ganvie in africa is the country’s largest city built entirely on stilts, there is actually no land on the north pole, only ice on top of the sea., italy has the most hotel rooms of any other nation in europe., mexico city is sinking at an average rate of 10cm a year., the atlantic ocean is saltier than the pacific ocean., 5 out of 10 largest diamond mines in the world are in russia., the trans-siberian rail in russia is the longest journey by rail in the world., france covers more time zones than any country on the planet., there are 1,860 steps to the top of the empire state building., honolulu, hawaii is the only city in america to have its own ancient royal palace., falkland island has 350 sheep for every person., saudi arabia has no rivers., travelling can increase life expectancy., it helps build confidence and a strong sense of self.  travelling can make you more positive and content., adding salt and pepper to your food is considered highly offensive to chefs in switzerland., white tigers are only found among indian tigers., haiti has virtually no trees due to massive deforestation., the tokyo zoo in japan closes down for two months every year to give the animals a little break from the people..

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Surprising travel facts you need to know

The world is vast and filled with strange, fascinating phenomena that make our planet a truly remarkable place to explore. From unusual ways to get around to jaw-dropping wildlife encounters, there’s no shortage of travel experiences that defy our perception of normality. 

Delve into some of these surprising travel facts and explore bizarre border crossings, geography oddities, and more. Let us embark on a journey into the unexpected.

READ MORE : Here are 13 seriously weird places to visit

Bizarre border crossings and geography oddities

The borders between countries are often arbitrary lines drawn on a map, but sometimes these lines result in strange divisions of land that boggle the mind. While you might believe that Alaska is the westernmost US state, it is also the easternmost state due to its proximity to the International Date Line. This geographical quirk leads to the Aleutian Island of Semisopochnoi being both the eastern and western extremes of the United States.

Speaking of odd border crossings, did you know that you don’t need a passport to go to Hawaii? As an integral part of the US, passports are not required for Americans travelling to the archipelago. For international travellers asking the question, “do I need a passport to go to Hawaii? ,” the answer is yes. A passport and visa will be necessary.

Unusual ways to travel

Moving onto peculiar modes of transport, Cambodia’s Bamboo Train is quite a sight to behold. Referred to as “norry” in Khmer, the Bamboo Train is an improvised rail vehicle that travels on Cambodia’s old railroad tracks. It’s built with a bamboo platform, bicycle wheels, and a small gasoline engine, making for a unique and exhilarating way to see the Cambodian countryside.

Fancy taking the road less travelled? In Bolivia, you can navigate the World’s Most Dangerous Road. As terrifying as it sounds, the journey offers stunning views of the Andean mountains and has become a sought-after attraction for thrill-seeking mountain bikers.

Another interesting method of transport is the Solar Boat in Israel, an eco-friendly, solar-powered boat that offers guided tours on the Sea of Galilee. The boat is a great example of sustainable tourism in action and offers visitors a unique way to experience the lake.

Global etiquette: surprising cultural differences

Cultural norms vary greatly from one country to another, and embracing these differences is an essential aspect of travel. For instance, while slurping may be rude in many countries, it is regarded as a sign of appreciation in Japan. The louder you slurp, the better – it indicates you’re thoroughly enjoying your meal.

In Thailand, the head is considered the most sacred body part, while the feet are regarded as the lowest and unclean. Pointing your feet at someone or touching their head is considered highly disrespectful. Therefore, it is common practice to remove your shoes before entering a Thai household and sit with your feet tucked away when in someone’s company.

Here’s another unexpected cultural difference: in Kenya, spitting as a form of greeting was once common among the Maasai people. The practice is now rare but is still observed by some as a sign of respect.

Weird and wonderful wildlife encounters

The animal kingdom is full of peculiar creatures, and from snorkelling with pigs to meeting sloths in the rainforest, travellers have plenty of opportunities to observe wildlife up close. 

One of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters can be found in Australia’s Kakadu National Park. Here, you can witness the ancient tradition of “barramundi dreaming,” a unique ritual performed by the local Aboriginal people to ensure good luck for their fishing expeditions.

Travellers are often drawn to the world’s wildlife, but some encounters are truly extraordinary. Consider Mexico’s Isla de las Muñecas, or “the Island of the Dolls” , where hundreds of dolls have been strung up in the trees to appease the spirit of a drowned girl. The eerie scene has become a popular offbeat destination.

In the Danakil Depression, Ethiopia, one can witness the unique phenomenon of acidic hot springs that create a striking landscape coloured by the minerals leaching from the Earth’s surface. The alien-like terrain has become a hotspot for researchers and inquisitive tourists alike.

READ MORE : Have you ever tried bizarre and weird food from around the world

Trips that leave a mark: unforgettable historic destinations

The world is home to many sites of tremendous cultural and historic significance, making it the perfect destination for travellers looking for an educational experience. In India, you can explore Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world and a holy site for Hindus. Here, you can observe rituals performed by pilgrims on its numerous ghats or embark on a boat ride on the Ganges.

Some trips leave an indelible impression on your soul, and such is the case with these unforgettable historic destinations. Take, for example, the Door of No Return in Senegal, a sobering site that symbolizes the final exit point for African slaves before being shipped to the Americas. A visit here is not only an opportunity to remember the past but to honour those who suffered so immensely.

Another impactful destination is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Japan, standing as a testimony to the horrors of nuclear warfare. The ruins of the A-Bomb Dome serve as a stark reminder of the tragedy that occurred in 1945 and the importance of striving towards a more peaceful and compassionate world.

Do you have surprising travel facts to share?

The world is full of surprising travel facts, curious ways of getting around, peculiar cultural customs, bizarre wildlife encounters, and unforgettable historic journeys. Embrace the unusual, broaden your horizons, and find inspiration in the world’s strangest and most striking attractions.

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24 Unusual Travel Facts You May Not Know

Did you know that Finland has nearly 180,000 islands ? That Indonesia has 127 active volcanoes? Or that Normandy’s beaches still have broken down shrapnel from World War II? With so many countries in the world, there come a host of interesting travel facts.

Whether you want to learn more about your next travel destination  or impress people at your next dinner party, here are 24 interesting travel facts that are sure to entertain you:

Natural Wonders

1. Canada has the most lakes in the world. With over 3 million lakes, 9% of the country is actually fresh water.

2. Haiti has been so badly deforested that there are practically no trees left. You can see that most clearly when you compare it with the neighbouring country, the Dominican Republic.

3. Suriname is almost entirely covered in jungles (over 91% of its land), and most people live along the coast.

4. 99% of Libya is covered in desert, making it one of the most arid places in the world.

5. At Thingvellir in Iceland, you can see two tectonic plates (the North American and Eurasian) meeting above the surface of the earth. You can even go diving between them.

6. The unspoilt forests of Siberia in Russia account for almost 25% of the world’s forests and are responsible for producing most of the world’s oxygen.

Amazing Animals

7. The island of Okunoshima in Japan is inhabited entirely by bunnies .

8. The Falkland Islands in the UK have 350 sheep for every person. Only about 3,000 people live here, and, naturally, wool is their major export.

9. Exumas Island in the Bahamas is home to swimming pigs .

10. The Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg is famously home to numerous cats . They even have a press secretary dedicated to them.

11. Almost 3% of the ice in Antarctica is made up of penguin urine.

12. Japan has “ turtle tunnels ” running under railway tracks to save them from being run over by trains.

Human Creations

13. India is the most diverse country in the world in almost every way – culturally, economically, geographically, racially, linguistically, ethnically, and religiously.

14. Zalipie is a village in Poland where all the buildings are decorated with painted flowers.

15. The people of Papa New Guinea speak over 820 languages, the most in any nation. Together they comprise 12% of the total world languages.

16. Ethiopia follows a traditional calendar based on the Coptic Orthodox Church that is seven years behind the rest of the world. This is because they never changed the proposed year of Jesus’ birth with the rest of the Christian world.

17. The small town of Caldari di Ortona in Italy has a free wine fountain that offers locally made wine and is open to anyone.

18. Vatican City’s famous Swiss Guard wear uniforms inspired by renaissance paintings by Michelangelo, Raphael, and Jacopo Coppi.

Peculiar Countries

19. Monaco is smaller than New You City’s Central Park, covering just 0.8 square miles. It is also the smallest permanently inhabited nation in the world.

20. With an average height of 1.8m above sea level, the Maldives is the lowest nation on earth.

21. Singapore is the largest country in the world without any farms or agriculture-based economy.

22. About ⅓ of the world’s airports are located in the USA, and at any given time there are over 61,000 people up in the air.

23. France covers 12 time zones, more than any other country. The United States comes second with 11, and Russia third with 9.

24. Conversely, the whole of China operates on Beijing time despite covering 5 whole time zones.

Are there any other travel facts you know of? If so, be sure to share them in the comments below.

Amazing article !!! I really love to travel . And i am really fond of reading meaningful article regarding travel. thank you so much for sharing this ..

Great, so informative

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Unveiling the wonders of culture and tradition!

Are you ready to embark on a journey filled with adventure, culture, tradition, and exciting attractions? Let your explorer's spirit soar and make unforgettable memories as you explore the beauty of our diverse world.

100 Strange, Intriguing & Obscure Travel Facts

The beauty of travel is that it constantly teaches you new things. Once you start traveling, it is hard to stop. And hard to go without. For all those who cannot travel internationally right now, here is a curated collection of the top 100 strange, intriguing and obscure travel facts . Guaranteed to teach you a few new things and perhaps even inspire you to add some new destinations to your bucket list 😉

If travel does not teach you new things, you are doing it wrong.

First up, and perhaps the most important…

Top 10 Travel Facts Of All Time

#1 Studies show that money spent on travel makes you happier than money spent on material goods, proving once and for all travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer.

#2 During flights the pilot enjoys a first class meal while the copilot eats economy ― just in case one causes food poisoning.

#3 In 1987 American Airlines removed one olive from each salad served in first class and saved $40,000.

#4 Only 3 countries in the world currently protect more than 50% of their land in national parks, nature reserves, and wildlife refuges: New Caledonia (54.4%), Venezuela (54.1%) and Slovenia (53.6%).

#5 There is was a town named Fucking in Austria. Locals did not realize the English meaning of Fucking until World War II, however it was only with the invention of social media that tourists began flocking to this small town of 106 people for photos with the Fucking signs. (So many people used to steal these signs that the city had to replace them with theft-proof Fucking signs.) On January 1st, 2021, the town name officially changed its named to Fugging — which is actually how you pronounce Fucking in the local dialect in the first place 😉

#6 The tiny Pacific Ocean nation of Tuvalu makes a large chunk of its income by leasing out its .tv domain.

#7 The Pan-American highway, the world’s longest motorable road, has a length of 30,000 miles. It stretches from Canada all the way down to South America .

#8 Bulgarians shake their heads from side to side to mean ‘yes’ and nod up and down to say ‘no’.

#9 Norway is home to not just one village named Å — as is often cited in travel/geographic travel — but a total of five !

#10 Travel has been proven to increase creativity. Seriously .

Airplane & Airline Travel Facts

The Cessna 172 is the single most produced aircraft in history. Over 44,000 have been produced since 1956 ― that’s an average of 2 per day for 64 years and counting!

The world’s shortest commercial flight is just over one minute long ― or as short as 47 seconds if the wind is on your side. It is between two Scottish islands and first-time fliers receive a Guinness World Records certificate with their name on it. See Photos

The world’s shortest international commercial flight is the 10-minute from Sint Maarten (Dutch Caribbean) to Anguilla (British Overseas Territory)…

…and the second-shortest international commercial flight is the 15-minute from Sint Maarten (Dutch Caribbean) to St Barths (French Overseas Collectivity).

The world’s longest flight is the 18-hour 16,600km (9,000 nmi) flight from Singapore to Newark, New Jersey. Singapore Airlines flights #21 and #22 first began in 2004 but were suspended March 24th, 2020, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is uncertain when (or even if) they will resume.

Qantas was testing out a record-breaking new 19-hour flight from Sydney to New York and London before the pandemic began. It is unlikely that this will become a regularly scheduled route anytime soon.

The rear section of an airplane has bumpiest ride because that is where turbulence has greatest effect. However, in the unlikely event of a crash, passengers in the rear section have greatest chance of surviving.

Jet lag feels worse when you travel from west to east. This is because it is easier for the body to adjust to longer days (e.g. flying east to west) than it is for shorter days, according to recent research .

Tocumen International Airport in Panama City, Panama, has the least number of canceled flights of any airport in the world, with a cancellation rate of just 0.07% (before Covid-19).

Marmite was the #1 most confiscated food brand at airports in the United Kingdom. To overcome this issue, British Airways and Marmite teamed up to made smaller 70g jars of Marmite for travelers that are only sold to passengers onboard flights.

During a normal flight, the temperature outside the airplane is around -60ºF (-51ºC). That is colder than almost anywhere on Earth at any given moment of the year! Scientific explanation .

The world’s busiest airport for 22 straight years was Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Atlanta, Georgia, USA– until now. According to official numbers released by the Airports Council International (ACI) in late April 2021, the world’s busiest airport for 2020 was Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in China.

During 2020 Guangzhou had 43.8 million passengers, down 40% from 2019. Meanwhile Atlanta had 42.9 million passengers, a staggering 61% drop from 2019. (Atlanta is unquestionably expected to resume its #1 slot.)

There are roughly 61,000 people in the air over the United States at any given time on any given point in the day.

(That’s probably because 1/3 of the world’s airports are located in the USA .)

Architectural Travel Facts

At 16 million square feet (1.5 million m²) Terminal 3 of Dubai International Airport is the largest building on earth in terms of floor space.

Santa Maria della Salute Church in Venice, Italy, rests on 1,156,627 wooden pilings that remain intact after more than 300 years!

The three tallest statues in the world are of Buddha — or rather were until 2018 when a 597ft (182m) tall statue of a politician was erected in Gujarat, India, becoming the new world’s tallest statue. Even so, 30 of the 100 tallest statues around the world are of Buddha, more than any other one individual.

Venice has a grand total of 435 bridges crossing its famous canals.

The world’s largest swimming pool holds 66 million gallons of water and is 115 feet deep (35m) in some places. It cost $2,000,000,000 to build and opened in 2006 at San Alfonso del Mar Resort in Chile.

This record-setting pool measures 1,013 meters (3,324 ft) in length with a total area of 8 hectares (19.77 acres). It even contains what is quite possibly the world’s only pool within a pool .

Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower) in London is leaning over so much it can now be seen with the naked eye. In 4,000 years it will be at the same angle as the tower in Pisa is now.

The 4 minarets of the Taj Mahal lean outwards slightly so that if they ever collapse the minarets will fall away from the central tomb and not destroy it.

Ganvie is the largest city in Africa built entirely on stilts. This village in Benin dates back to the 16th century and has been on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List since 1996. Population: 20,000.

The world’s most expensive hotel room costs $100,000/night and comes with a two-night minimum.

The world’s most expensive submarine hotel room — and let’s be honest, probably the world’s only submarine hotel — is the Lover’s Deep Submarine . Lurking at great depths somewhere off the coast of St. Lucia, this baby will reportedly set you back between $175,000-$300,000 per night (depending upon news article). It most likely has a minimum stay of at least two nights. On the plus side, the extravagant food menu even includes a special aphrodisiac menu and the crew cabins for the three staff (captain, chef and butler) are on the opposite side of the submarine from the guest cabins 😉

Historical Travel Facts

The streets of Trinidad, Cuba, were purposely designed to be confusing in order to aid the original settlers in skirmishes against marauding pirates.

In 1928 American industrialist Henry Ford established a town in the Amazon Rainforest named Fordlândia. It was intended to be home to 10,000 people and a source of rubber for the Ford factories, however the project failed. Fordlândia was abandoned in 1934 but still exists today, albeit with a very small population.

Geographic Travel Facts

The northern hemisphere is home to 90% of the world’s population.

Singapore is the largest country on earth with no farmland.

The total length of all the world’s coastline is roughly the same distance as the earth to the moon: 217,490 miles (350,016km).

Nauru and Tokelau are the only countries in the world without official capital cities. Nauru does not have any cities at all (just districts) and Tokelau rotates the capital annually among the atolls.

Alaska is both the westernmost and easternmost state in the USA . The Aleutian Islands are actually located west of the 180th Meridian (the line that divides the eastern and western hemisphere) making it the only US state to be partly located in the eastern hemisphere.

The United States has 173 volcanoes, more than any other nation. Only 5 are in Hawaii. Most are in Alaska, where at least 1-2 eruptions have occurred every year since 1900 .

Mount Kilauea in Hawaii holds the record for the world’s longest volcano eruption : 25 years continuously from 1983-2018, adding nearly 700 acres to Hawaii’s Big Island.

Iceland has a volcano eruption an average of once every five years. Over the last 500 years ⅓ of all the lava to hit Earth’s surface did so here. (Iceland is also home to elves and the world’s only museum of mammal penises .)

The Maldives is the lowest nation on earth with an average height of less than 5 ft (1.5m) above sea level and its highest point a mere 17 ft (5m). Sadly, this makes the archipelago the first victim of rising oceans ― better to visit sooner rather than later.

17 countries around the world do not have any rivers but Saudi Arabia is the only one that is not an island nation. The country is 95% desert and in certain places sand dunes often exceed a height of 100 ft (30m).

Bermuda has more islands than roads ― 181 islands but only 155 miles (250km) of paved roads connecting them.

Greenland is the largest island in the world because Australia is classified as a continent with 8,222 islands, including Tasmania and New Guinea. (By definition an island is a mass of land that is both “entirely surrounded by water” and also “smaller than a continent.” As such, Australia cannot be an island because it is already a continent.)

Indonesia spans over 3,200 miles (5,100km) from east to west, 300 miles more than the USA, and has 17,508 islands. If you visited one Indonesian island per day it would take 48 years to visit them all.

Canada has more lakes than every other country on earth. Combined. How many? Over three million lakes, 60% of the world’s total. A whopping 9% of the country is fresh water.

The Archipelago Sea in Finland has more than 40,000 islands and islets, making it the largest archipelago in the world by the number of islands (although many of the islands are very small and tightly clustered).

Australia has more than 28 times the land area of New Zealand but its coastline is not even twice as long.

Australia has over 10,000 beaches! If you visit one beach every day it would take 27 years to see them all.

Istanbul is the only metropolis in the world bridging two continents. It’s the only place in the world where you can breakfast in Asia and go for a short walk followed by lunch in Europe. The city has been the capital of many empires throughout history and Napoleon Bonaparte famously said: “If the earth was a single state, Istanbul would be its capital.”

With its sprawling size you might think Russia has the most time zones of any country in the world but it comes in third with 9. The United States is second with 11. Surprisingly, France covers more time zones than any country on the planet, with a total of 12 thanks to its various overseas territories.

The whole of China operates on Beijing time, even though the country covers five time zones. The same is true with India, where sunrise times vary several hours from east to west.

Travel Facts About Animals

Elephants make friends, bury their dead, travel for ‘funerals’, speak to each other, and show extreme intelligence.

Almost 3% of the ice in Antarctica is made up of penguin urine. Maybe think twice before eating it.

The hippopotamus kills more people per year in Africa than crocodiles, lions, etc.

Emus and kangaroos cannot walk backwards, and are on the Australian coat of arms for exactly that reason. No going backwards.

Dogs have been banned from Antarctica since 1994 out of concern that they could spread diseases to the locals seals.

As of 2019, India is home to almost 200 million cows .

In Morocco there are goats that regularly climb trees to eat the fruit ― but only Argan trees .

They can live for up to 200 years ― the trees, no the goats ― however the fruit only ripens once per year, during June and July. Although inedible to humans, the goats absolutely love it.

Although Australia is home to the largest number of venomous snakes in the world, it averages only one fatal snake bite per year.

There are more known reptile species in Australia than in all other listed countries combined.

Out of the estimated 4.4 million alpacas in the world, around 87% of them are in Peru. Reportedly they can even be house-trained.

Pigs don’t swim everywhere in the Bahamas, just on Exumas Island, home to the famous swimming pigs.

If you ever go on safari in Africa, remember this: a group of Rhinos is called a “crash” and fast-moving crashes have been known to live up to their name. Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, South Africa

The Goliath Frog is the world’s largest frog. It can weigh up to 3.25 kilograms (7.2 lb) and is only found in Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea 🐸

Ōkunoshima is a small island in Japan populated entirely by wild rabbits. It was the site of Japan’s poison gas production operations until being abandoned after World War II. Between the bunnies, old forts and gas factory, the island has become an offbeat tourist attraction.

Marajó island in Brazil is the only place on earth where police patrol on buffaloes. Located at the mouth of the Amazon River, the island is subject to frequent flooding ― and buffalo are more reliable than vehicles 😂

Travel Facts About Nature

At 808.8 million hectares the unspoiled forests of Russia (primarily Siberia) account for over 25% of the world’s total forested area.

Mongolia is overflowing with natural, open terrain. After all, it is the least densely populated country in the world — there are only 2 people per km² (5 people per mi²). Nearly half of the 3.2 million population live in the sprawling capital city of Ulaanbaatar.

There is actually no land on the North Pole, only ice on top of the sea.

On the island of Yap, a state of Micronesia, rocks are used as currency . Each rock’s worth is based on its size and its history (where it came from). Though US dollars have now started to be used for everyday purchases on the island, rocks are still used for ceremonial transactions (during weddings, for example). Yap also uses turmeric, shells and cloth as official currency.

Sweden is home to more than 250,000 islands! More than any country on earth. Of the 267,570 islands, less than 1,000 are populated.

One-of-a-Kind Travel Facts

If you die in Amsterdam with no next of kin, and no friends or family to prepare the funeral or mourn your passing, a poet will write a poem for you and recite it at your funeral. “We are not responsible for how they lived, but we are responsible for them in death, and if they died in Amsterdam then they are one of us.” The project is called “The Lonely Funeral” ( De Eenzame Uitvaart ) and the idea originated from the city of Groningen. Several other towns in the Netherlands and Belgium have followed this example.

The small town of Caldari di Ortona in Italy has a free wine fountain that offers locally made wine and is open to anyone.

Japan currently has a shortage of ninjas . The city of Iga, located in central Japan about 280 miles from Tokyo, claims to be the birthplace of the ninja. Its annual ninja festival attracts 30,000+ tourists to this city of only 100,000. Unfortunately, even with salaries as high as $85,000, trained ninjas are increasingly hard to find .

Nepal is the only country on earth to worship a living Goddess, known as Kumari. The Royal Kumari of Kathmandu lives a privileged life in a palace at the center of the city…until she hits puberty, loses her deity status, and goes back to a normal life in obscurity.

In Thingvellir, Iceland, you can not only see two tectonic plates meeting above the surface of the earth, you can even go scuba diving between them!   Iceland Off The Beaten Path

ʻIolani Palace in Hawaii is the only royal palace in the USA. Built between 1879-83, the palace is now open to the public as a museum in Honolulu.

San Marino is the only country that has more cars than people.

Interesting Language Facts

At least 840 different languages spoken in Papua New Guinea, more than any other country. Together they comprise 12% of the total world languages.

The Hawaiian alphabet has 13 letters and locals have been known to tell visitors that it is the smallest alphabet in the world, but it’s not. The Rotokas alphabet of Bougainville, Papua New Guinea, only has 12 letters: AEGIKOPRSTUV. Rotokas is officially the world’s smallest alphabet.

And the Khmer alphabet of Cambodia is the largest alphabet in the world with 74 characters.

Only 4% of all the world’s languages are spoken by 96% of its population.

Spanish is ranked as the happiest language in the world due to its abundance of happy words. By this standard, the other happiest languages in the world are Portuguese, English, Indonesian and last but not least French rounding out the top five.

Everything Else

South Korea has multiple emergency phone numbers for different types of crises, including a dedicated number for reporting spies: 113.

In Molokai, Hawaii you can write a message on a coconut and mail it anywhere in the world. It’s called Post-A-Nut and you can either decorate a naked coconut yourself or buy one that has already been painted and add stamps.

Expedia.com, Hotels.com, Hotwire.com, Orbitz, Travelocity, and Trivago are all owned by the same company, Expedia Inc.

Nepal‘s flag isn’t square or rectangular, it is a double triangle. The only one in the world like that.

Every penny thrown into Rome’s Trevi Fountain is collected daily and donated to a number of charities.

The United States is the only developed country in the world without a single legally required paid vacation day or holiday. (Oops, this is probably more of an anti-travel fact.)

According to the World Economic Forum, Iceland is the friendliest nation on earth.

Introvert personalities are more likely to pick mountainous locations for a holiday while extroverts prefer the beach, according to numerous studies .

India is the most diverse country in the world in almost every way – culturally, economically, geographically, racially, linguistically, ethnically, and religiously.

There is enough fuel in a Boeing 747 plane to power a car around the entire planet 4 times.

Have any unique travel facts to share?

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About Derek Freal

"Some people eat, others try therapy. I travel."   Cultural enthusiast. Adrenaline junkie. Eater of strange foods. Chasing unique and offbeat adventures around the world since 2008. Derek loves going to new destinations where he does not speak a word of the local language and must communicate with hand gestures, or places where he is forced to squat awkwardly to poo -- supposedly its healthier and more efficient. For more information (about Derek, not squat pooing) including popular posts and videos, check out his bio .

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A Guide To Indonesia’s Most Beautiful Islands

Benefits of car sharing.

42 Fun Travel Facts: From the World’s Shortest Flight to the Largest Honky Tonk

Kenneth Holland

• August 3, 2023
• No Comments

Ah, there you are, looking all starry-eyed, bitten by that notoriously contagious bug—wanderlust. Picture it, you’re at the airport, your suitcase bursting with optimism and at least four outfits per day, your passport at the ready to collect more stamps than a philatelist on a spending spree.

Oh, and you have that glossy guidebook you nabbed at the checkout stand—the one filled to the brim with facts about traveling, as if it could truly prepare you for the organized chaos that is venturing into the unknown.

But let’s be real, half the charm of travel is the unexpected, isn’t it? Those delicious little surprises that ambush you at every corner, turning you from a doe-eyed tourist into a seasoned globetrotter.

However, we all know a little bit of knowledge never hurt anyone, so whether you’re an adventurous soul or a meticulous planner (or maybe, just maybe, a perfect blend of both), here’s a curated list of 42 fun facts and interesting facts about travel to spice up your next escapade. Buckle up, it’s going to be a ride…

1. Travel: Your Passport to Intelligence

Turns out, wanderlust doesn’t just fill up your Instagram feed—it also makes you smarter. Traveling helps you adapt to new situations, think creatively, and be more open-minded.

So, you’re not just collecting souvenir magnets, you’re actually collecting brainpower—take that, doubters!

2. Loganair’s Shortest Flight in the World

Let me tell you about a flight that’s shorter than the time it takes you to find your seatbelt and fasten it.

Operated by Loganair, the route from Westray to Papa Westray in Scotland takes—wait for it—a whopping 1.5 minutes.

Yes, you read that right, a travel experience that barely gives you time to blink, let alone panic about turbulence.

3. The Porcine Paradise: Pig Beach in the Bahamas

If frolicking in turquoise waters alongside adorable pot-bellied companions sounds like your kind of tropical getaway, welcome to the Pig Beach in the Bahamas.

Here, pigs don’t fly, but they sure do swim. This uninhabited island is a hog heaven where the swimming swine are the main attraction—talk about hogging the spotlight.

4. San Alfonso del Mar: Dive into the World’s Biggest Pool

At San Alfonso del Mar resort in Algarrobo, Chile, you’ll find a pool that’ll make your neighborhood swimming spot look like a mere puddle.

The San Alfonso del Mar Swimming Pool : Stretched over a staggering 20 acres, it’s the world’s largest outdoor pool, and it’s so vast, you’d half expect to spot Moses parting it. Pack a lunch, because swimming from one end to the other might turn into a day trip.

5. Venice: The Floating City of 118 Islands

Venice, a city that makes “I’m on island time” a real deal. Consisting of 118 small islands, it’s connected by a confounding 400+ bridges that will turn your GPS into a gibbering wreck.

Here’s a fun game: try getting lost; chances are you’ll stumble upon yet another enchanting, Instagram-worthy canal.

6. An Overabundance of Airports: The United States

Ah, the United States, home to the brave, land of the free, and incidentally, owner of the most airports in the world.

If you’re ever playing a game of ‘ spot the airport ,’ this is your playground. So, if you ever doubted America’s love for travel and convenience, consider this: it has over 13,000 airports—more than enough to pick and choose your favorite landing strip.

7. Canada: The Lake-Laden Land

Canada, the land of the ‘eh’-s and hockey, has a bit of a hoarding problem—it’s hoarded more lakes than the rest of the world’s total, combined. We’re talking 2 million lakes here, folks, that’s more bodies of water than you could visit in several lifetimes.

Good luck trying to dip your toes into each of them, just remember to pack enough towels.

8. Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan: The Granddaddy of Hotels

Tired of the bland, modern hotels that look like they popped up yesterday?

Enter Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan in Japan, the world’s oldest hotel, which has been up and running since 705 AD.

Talk about impressive hospitality genes, this place has been perfecting the art of accommodation for over 1300 years—it’s older than some countries!

9. Russia: The Land of Stretched Time

Think your daily schedule is a mess? Try living in Russia, the only country that spans a mind-boggling 11 time zones.

You can have breakfast in Moscow, lunch in Siberia, and still make it for a dinner date in Vladivostok—talk about a world tour without ever crossing the border.

10. Debunking the Myth: The Great Wall of China

Look, it’s time we had a heart-to-heart about the Great Wall of China. Contrary to popular belief—and much to the chagrin of the wide-eyed kids out there—no, you can’t actually see it from space.

Turns out, astronauts have better things to do than squint at Earth trying to locate ancient landmarks—go figure.

11. Fraser Island: A Sandy Marvel

Next up on our list, we’re swapping the classic beach vacation for something a little more intense: Fraser Island in Australia, the largest sand island in the world.

It’s basically a colossal sandbox stretching over 1,840 square kilometers, minus the plastic shovels.

Pro tip: I wouldn’t recommend trying to build a sand castle here, unless you fancy a multi-storey sand skyscraper.

12. Eiffel Tower: A Monument with a Temperature Problem

Ever wondered what happens when a colossal hunk of iron sits under the Parisian sun? Surprise, surprise—it expands.

The Eiffel Tower can grow up to 6 inches during a hot summer day. For a structure that’s been the poster child of Paris since 1889, it sure likes to keep people on their toes.

13. Hell: A Place That Freezes Over

Last but not least, let’s talk about Hell. No, not that one—the quaint little town in Norway that lives up to its ironic name every winter by literally freezing over.

Now you finally have a snappy comeback for anyone who says they’ll do something when Hell freezes over—because, guess what, it does!

14. All Aboard the Trans-Siberian Railway

Ever fancied traversing the entire Asian continent? Look no further than the Trans-Siberian Railway.

Spanning over 9,289 kilometers from Moscow to Vladivostok, this rail journey is the epitome of ‘it’s about the journey, not the destination’. Just make sure you pack enough snacks.

15. Monaco: When Size Doesn’t Matter

Picture this: Monaco is so tiny, it couldn’t even win a size contest with Central Park in New York. In fact, you could fit the entire country into Central Park and still have room for a couple of hot dog stands.

But hey, who needs space when you’re a glitzy playground for the world’s richest and most famous?

16. Mount Everest: Not for the Faint-Hearted

Here’s a chilling tidbit for you. Mount Everest, the pinnacle of climbing achievements, is also a final resting place for over 200 climbers.

Just a friendly reminder that ‘because it’s there’ might not always be the best reason to do something.

17. The World’s Quietest Room: The Sound of Silence

You think your yoga studio is peaceful? Try spending some time in the world’s quietest room located at Microsoft’s headquarters in Washington.

It’s so eerily quiet, you can hear your own organs working. Suddenly, that noisy coffee machine at work doesn’t seem so bad, huh?

18. The Epitome of Wanderlust: Norwegian Passports

If you’re into collecting travel stamps, you might want to consider becoming a Norwegian citizen.

With their passport boasting a whopping 192 pages, it’s like a thick novel that tells the exciting story of your globetrotting adventures. Just don’t try to read it at bedtime—you might catch a severe case of wanderlust.

19. Chicago: Green Rivers and St. Paddy’s Day

Chicago, the city where the river flows with… green dye? Every St. Patrick’s Day, Chicagoans celebrate their Irish spirit in a big way by turning the Chicago River into a fluorescent green spectacle.

It’s as if Mother Nature herself had a bit too much Guinness and decided to let loose.

20. China: Because Who Needs Multiple Time Zones?

In an oddity that boggles the mind, the whole of China operates on a single time zone. Yes, that’s right, from the metropolis of Shanghai to the remote countryside, every clock tells the same time.

When it’s five o’clock somewhere, it’s five o’clock everywhere in China!

21. High in the Sky: Different Meals for Pilots and Co-Pilots

Remember when your parents told you not to eat the same thing as your sibling, just in case one of you got sick? Turns out, airlines follow the same principle.

Pilots and co-pilots are advised to eat different meals to avoid simultaneous food poisoning—now there’s an inflight announcement you never heard.

22. Las Vegas: More Rooms than a Board Game Convention

Now to the most visited city that trades in sleep for poker chips: Las Vegas. You might have guessed, but it holds the record for the most hotel rooms in the world.

If every room in the city were filled, Las Vegas could host every attendee from the world’s three largest conventions simultaneously, with room to spare for Elvis impersonators.

23. Alaska: Doing The East-West Shuffle

Oh, Alaska, never content with just being the biggest state, it also had to be both the westernmost and easternmost.

Thanks to the Aleutian Islands, which stretch right up to the edge of the Western Hemisphere, it’s got both ends of the US covered. Just pick a direction, and Alaska has got it nailed.

24. Sweden’s Unconventional Topping: Banana on Pizza

If you thought pineapple on pizza was controversial, brace yourself.

The Swedes love to top their pizzas with… bananas. There’s open-mindedness, and then there’s this.

25. Saving with Salad: American Airlines’ Olive Ploy

Here’s a fun little tidbit: back in 1987, American Airlines figured out how to save $40,000.

The secret? They removed one olive from each salad served in first class. It’s the kind of penny-pinching brilliance that would make Scrooge McDuck proud.

26. The Pan-American Highway: A Road Tripper’s Dream

If you’re in the mood for a truly epic road trip, look no further than the Pan-American Highway.

Stretching over 19,000 miles from Alaska to Argentina, it’s the longest motorable road in the world. Just imagine the mixtape you’d need for that journey.

27. United States: A Hotbed of Volcanoes

In a surprising turn of events, the United States holds the title for the most volcanoes—roughly 173 of them.

While most of them are in Alaska, the rest are scattered all over the country, just waiting to add a bit of extra excitement to your cross-country road trip.

28. Billy Bob’s: The Honky Tonk Heaven

Everything’s bigger in Texas, right? Case in point: Billy Bob’s in Fort Worth , known as the world’s largest honky tonk.

This monstrous venue is a country music lover’s dream, complete with live bull riding, boot-scootin’ dance floors, and enough beer to fill the Red River—just remember to leave the horse outside.

29. King Fahd International: The Sultan of Airports

King Fahd International Airport in Saudi Arabia isn’t just your average air travel hub—it’s the undisputed king, being the largest airport in the world.

With an area larger than the entire country of Bahrain, it’s practically its own sovereign nation. One can’t help but wonder if they’re compensating for something.

30. Unleashing Joy: Traveling Equals Happiness

It’s official, folks—traveling makes you happier.

Sure, losing your luggage or getting stuck in a 10-hour layover isn’t a bundle of joy, but the overall experience, the sights, the sounds, the new flavors—these are what memories are made of.

So, go on, pack your bags, and start joy-hunting.

31. South Dakota: The Land of Cows… Lots of Cows

Here’s some food for thought: South Dakota has more cows than people. We’re not sure if the cows are running a successful recruitment campaign or if the humans just got tired of the cold winters.

Either way, if you ever find yourself in a trivia battle, this tidbit could be your secret weapon.

32. Liberty Bell: A Big, Fat Typo

Ah, the Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American independence. But did you know that this revered relic has a pretty glaring typo?

The word “Pennsylvania” is misspelled as “Pensylvania.” Oops! Guess even freedom has its typos.

33. South Korea: Dial 113 for Spy Busters

Have a suspicion that your neighbor is a secret agent? In South Korea, there’s a special hotline just for that—dial 113 to report spies.

Sure, it might not be as exciting as a James Bond flick, but it certainly adds a little spice to the daily grind.

34. US: The No-Paid-Holidays Nation

Oh, America. Land of the free, home of the brave, and the only developed country in the world with no legally required paid holidays. Yikes.

This fact might not make you eager to pack up and move, but it’s certainly something to ponder.

35. Boeing 747: A Fuel Guzzler Like No Other

A Boeing 747 is basically a gas station with wings. Its fuel tanks hold enough fuel to power a car to circle the globe not once, not twice, but four times.

And here you were thinking your SUV had a drinking problem!

36. Travel: A Cardio Workout for the Heart

Now, here’s a health hack for you—travel can actually strengthen your heart.

Beyond the inevitable cardio you get from running to catch flights, the happiness and relaxation that come with travel have been proven to be heart-healthy. Pack your suitcase, book a trip, and consider it your cardio for the day.

37. Imperial: Going Below Sea Level, Literally

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live under the sea without the inconvenience of being a mermaid, head to Imperial, California.

This city sits a remarkable 235 feet below sea level. Just remember: despite the name, you won’t find any Imperial Stormtroopers—just a lot of puzzled sea creatures.

38. Sudan: More Pyramids Than You Can Shake a Scepter At

Egypt, step aside. When it comes to pyramids, Sudan is the reigning champion with a staggering 255, compared to Egypt’s meager 138.

If you’ve got a thing for pointy ancient structures, you know where to book your next trip.

39. Contrails: The Water Vapor Truth

Here’s one for the conspiracy theorists: those smoke lines crisscrossing the sky from airplanes are not, I repeat, NOT chemical trails.

Sorry to burst your tin-foil-hatted bubble, but they’re actually just water vapor. Let’s just agree to call them sky doodles, shall we?

40. Rome’s Trevi Fountain: A Penny for Your Wishes

You’ve probably seen those movie scenes where the starry-eyed protagonist throws a coin into Rome’s Trevi Fountain and makes a wish. But where do all those pennies end up?

They’re collected and donated to Caritas, a charity that uses the funds for a supermarket program giving free groceries to the needy.

So, by all means, make a wish. You’re literally throwing money at a good cause.

41. Introverts, Extroverts, and Vacation Choices

Apparently, our personalities dictate our vacation spots. Studies show that introverts are more likely to pick mountainous locations for a holiday, while extroverts hit the beach.

As an ambivert, I suppose you’d just be endlessly circling the travel agency in confusion.

42. Money Can’t Buy Love, But It Can Buy Travel

And for our last insight of the day: studies have shown that money spent on travel makes you happier than money spent on material things. But can it buy love, you ask?

Well, travel can certainly buy you memories, adventures, and a wicked tan. If that doesn’t get you love, I don’t know what will.

The World Awaits…

So there you have it, folks. We’ve traipsed around the globe together, uncovering some of the weirdest, most fascinating tidbits that our world has to offer.

From the excessive honky tonk of Billy Bob’s and the spy hotline in South Korea, to the sky doodles we’ve mistaken for smoke lines and the penny-wishing for charity at Rome’s Trevi Fountain, the world sure is a strange and wonderful place.

So remember, travel not only stretches your horizons, but also strengthens your heart, expands your mind, and according to some, can even make you happier than buying things.

Who knows, maybe your next adventure will lead you to a place with more pyramids than Egypt or a beach lined with pigs?

Here’s to uncovering more of the world’s oddities, one snarky, informative travel fact at a time. Happy traveling!

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30 Travel Facts You Probably Didn't know

With the rise of global connectivity and social media apps like Instagram allowing for stunning images and videos to be shared from all corners of the earth, travel is now more popular than ever. People travel for a variety of reasons, with curiosity and intrigue generally being at the forefront of everyones desire to explore foreign lands. The coronavirus pandemic has halted the plans of many would-be globe trotters and left many fires burning in the minds of those with endless wanderlust. To help keep your wanderlust somewhat satiated we have put together a list of quirky travel facts you probably didn’t know:

1. Jet lag is worse when travelling from west to east

Jet lag is probably the worst part of travelling and It’s almost impossible to prepare against it. Research shows that human beings struggle more to adapt to shorter days rather than longer ones. Since our internal clock seems to be just over 24 hours, travelling from west to east shortens the day and therefore is harder to adapt to.

2.The world’s shortest international flight is 15 minutes (literally)

The shortest international flight possible is a 15 minute flip from the Dutch territory, Saint Maarten to Anguilla, a British territory in the Caribbean.

3.Bangkok is not the Thai capital’s full name

View this post on Instagram A post shared by мιимιи 📸 (@phantomminn)

Bangkok is the English name for the capital of Thailand . Written out fully in Thai it is way, way longer. Here it is in all its glory:

Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit

It directly translates to:

The city of angels, the great city, the residence of the Emerald Buddha, the impregnable city (unlike Ayutthaya) of God Indra, the grand capital of the world endowed with nine precious gems, the happy city, abounding in an enormous Royal Palace that resembles the heavenly abode where reigns the reincarnated god, a city given by Indra and built by Vishnukarn.

4. Å, Norway

There is a town in Norway simply called ‘Å’, pronounced ‘aw’.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Davide Campagna (@davcampa)

5. Australia, a beach paradise

Sydney isn’t the only Australian city with a beach, the massive island continent boasts over 10,000 beaches and 25,760km of coastline.

6. New wanderlust

Wanderlust has become severely overused and almost cliche (guilty), from questionable tattoos to smart phone wallpapers. If you’re looking for another way to express your burning desire for adventure, why not try the German ‘fernweh’ which means ‘far sickness’ or an intense urge to travel.

7. Kiribati conquering

The Pacific island of Kiribati is the only country to lie all four hemispheres as it sits over the equator and stretches across the western and eastern hemispheres.

8. Saudi Arabia is dry

This is not just a reference to the lack of alcohol (legally) but Saudi has no official rivers.

9. We’re not that different

4% of all the world’s languages are spoken by 96% of its population.

10. French Time

France covers more timezones than any other country in the world. This might not make any sense at first glance, but remember, France owns a fair few islands across the world.

11. Russia is bigger than Pluto

Maybe not such an impressive feat since Pluto was stripped of its planet status, but either way, Russia is pretty damn big.

12. Linguistically gifted Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea has over 820 languages listed as spoken in the country. And to think most of us struggle to learn a second language.

13. Fountain of Philanthropy

Every coin thrown into Rome’s Trevi Fountain is collected and donated to various charitable organisations. So go on, toss that coin! It’s for a good cause!

14. Stilt city

Ganvie in Benin is Africa’s largest city built entirely on stilts.

15. Busiest Airport

You’d probably expect a central travel hub like Dubai or London Heathrow to hold the title of the world’s busiest airport, but in reality the busiest airport in the world is Hartsfield-Jackson Airport in Atlanta, USA .

16 . Las Vegas

Even the most avid lover of nightlife could never sleep in every hotel in Sin City – it would take 400 years to do that.

17. When goats climb

There’s a village in Morocco where goats regularly climb trees to eat the argan berries? It most definitely requires a second look.

18. Florida Strikes Again

South Florida is the only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles coexist naturally in the wild. Might be worth giving it a skip if you’re a water lover!

19. Kentucky Bourbon

The number of bourbon barrels in Kentucky outnumbers its population by more than two million.

20. Cappadocia’s Underground Cities

The underground caves in Cappadocia , Turkey are a massive drawcard for tourists thanks to their surreal beauty which create an incredible landscape. But did you know they were once inhabited cities? The deepest was Derinkuyu, at 279ft deep, which, at its peak, may have housed up to 20,000 christians trying to flee persecution from the Roman Empire.

21. Lightning can strike twice

Venezuela’s Lake Maracaibo has the highest density of lightning on the planet . There are 150 nights of lightning per annum, 10 hours a day and approximately 280 strikes per hour.

22. The island capital

Sweden is reportedly home to the world’s most islands, boasting 267,570 of them. This makes it the world’s ‘island capital’.

23. Squaremelons

Did you know that in Japan watermelons are square? Apparently this growing method was developed for organisational convenience in people’s fridges. The melons are grown in boxes and assume the shape of the container. They tend to appeal to wealthy or fashionable consumers because they cost anywhere from two to three times of what a normal watermelon does.

24. Not local in Singapore

Singapore is the largest country in the world that has no farms. The country’s five million residents consume food that is entirely imported. This purely comes down to the island being so developed that there is no space for agricultural land.

25. Canadian Water

Canada is the second largest country in the world and boasts over 60 per cent of all the world’s natural lakes – which means its home to more water than the rest of the world combined.

26. The driest place on earth is full of ice?

No one would  argue with you if you thought the Sahara Desert was the driest place on Earth – but that accolade actually goes to Ross Island in Antarctica, where it hasn’t rained for millions of years.

27. Monaco Money

Monaco might be the second smallest country in the world by area (Vatican City is the smallest) but its population packs a punch. Along with being the most densely-populated country in the world, it is home to the largest number of millionaires and billionaires in the world per capita.

28. Road Trip

A fan of road trips? Well why not tackle the Pan-American Highway, the world’s longest drivable road. It stretches a whopping 30,000 miles long, and runs from Canada to South America.

29. Going Up? Oui, oui

The Eiffel Tower in Paris is so popular that its lifts travel a combined distance of 64,000 miles every year.

Dubai is not only home to 20 per cent of the world’s cranes, but it also boasts the world’s tallest structure (the 2,716 ft-high Burj Khalifa), the world’s tallest hotel (the 72-storey, 1,165 ft JW Marriott Marquis Dubai Hotel), the world’s largest shopping centre (the Dubai Mall), and the world’s biggest aquarium (in the Dubai Mall). None of these are that surprising to be fair.

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The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2022

From far-flung destinations to hometown favorites, 2022 is the year to get back out there and turn your dream trips into reality.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Planning new adventures as a new year approaches is always a thrill, but finding the best places to visit in 2022 is unique. After two years of border closures, cruise cancellations, and travel restrictions galore , 2022 is the year we hope to get back out there, uninhibited (albeit vaccinated and COVID tested ), return to our favorite destinations, and cross new ones off our lists.

Though the hospitality industry was hit hard by the pandemic, many properties used the forced downtime to renovate rooms, add new amenities, and expand outdoor spaces to offer even more once guests return. 2022 is when many travelers will venture further from home, and even overseas, for the first time since the start of the pandemic, finally reaping the benefits of these valiant efforts.

Although COVID variants remain, regulations are still evolving, and precautions must still be taken, many of the destinations we chose for 2022 offer what we believe travelers are looking for in a post-pandemic world, from hotels with private accommodations to destinations teeming with fresh-air activities . Others, like Las Vegas, are for those who are ready and raring to make up for all the social time they missed — with a few splashy headliners, including Adele and the Raiders, thrown in for good measure.

As cruising makes its comeback , we included unforgettable places to see by water, from Antarctica to the Nile, and as hard-hit destinations like Italy and Asia recover, we found the buzziest reasons to return. Of course we didn't forget about all the stateside gems we got to know while domestic travel was surging, from Alaska and California to Florida and Michigan.

Our 2022 list, organized alphabetically, doesn't hold back, with aspirational trips as far away as India, Mozambique, Qatar, and even space — but we're also including hometown favorites, like Walt Disney World and its new Star Wars hotel ; the wellness retreats of beautiful Sedona; and the simple pleasures of small-town, farm-to-table living in Franklin, Tennessee. Because no matter what type of trip you've been dreaming of, we want to help you turn 2022 into the year you get back out there and make it a reality.

— Edited by Nina Ruggiero and Scott Bay

1. Abruzzo, Italy

Stretching from the heart of the Apennines to the Adriatic Sea on the peninsula's southeastern side, Abruzzo, Italy has long been one of the country's most overlooked destinations despite its unspoiled villages, picturesque Trabocchi Coast, and stunning natural escapes. Over the past few years, however, it has gone from a sleepy underdog to an ambitious harbinger of slow travel, sustainable gastronomy, and conscious hospitality. Villa Corallo , a 19th-century mansion near Civitella del Tronto was transformed into a five-star hotel in 2019. Dimore Montane , an eco-lodge opened in 2020 in Majella National Park, marries glamping with environmentally-friendly facilities with a zero waste policy. Meanwhile, restaurants like Bottega Culinaria in San Vito Chietino and Materia Prima in Castel di Sangro are redefining the region as one of Italy's most exciting food hotspots for their innovative and sustainable takes on local produce and traditional dishes (in case Niko Romito's three-Michelin-starred Reale wasn't enough). And completing construction this Spring is Via Verde dei Trabocchi: a cycling and pedestrian path along the Adriatic sea that's being built on a disused railway route. — Marianna Cerini

With many international borders closed over the last two years, many eager U.S. travelers' eyes turned to Alaska. The vast state, famous for its towering, snow-capped peaks, pristine wilderness, massive national parks, and colorful locals, made for a dynamic destination with no passport required. But as borders reopen, interest in the 49th state is showing no signs of slowing down. Alaska's tourism board said early forecasts are projecting that more than 1.57 million cruise ship passengers could visit southeast Alaska in summer 2022. That's an 18% jump from 2019, the previous record year. Many perennial favorite cruise lines , like Holland America, will be returning to full strength after a non-existent 2020 and abbreviated 2021. Others, like Windstar Cruises, UnCruise, and Hurtigruten are rolling out fresh itineraries or are launching new ships. On dry land, Alaska is set to see myriad new offerings and events. In Juneau, the Sealaska Heritage Institute will open their Arts Campus (where visitors will be able to learn about Alaska Native art and culture) and will host Celebration , one of the largest gatherings of Indigenous peoples. In Anchorage, Fur Rendezvous , Alaska's oldest and largest winter festival, will be back from Feb. 25 to March 6 (which also happens to be peak aurora season ). The event hosts activities like the Running of the Reindeer and the Outhouse Races, before culminating with the 50th running of the iconic Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race . — Bailey Berg

3. Anguilla

This easy-going Caribbean gem is simpler than ever to get to with American Airlines launching the first-ever nonstop, direct flight from Miami on Dec. 11. Private charter flights by Tradewind Aviation have also resumed service to the island. And the just-opened Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club has a fleet of jets to ferry guests from key U.S. cities. The sprawling luxury resort will include a few restaurants overseen by chef Abram Bissell, formerly of Eleven Madison Park, The NoMad, and The Modern. Quintessence , a boutique luxury resort with perks like butler service and a 4:1 staff-to-guest ratio, is opening a more affordable annex of suites called Quinn that will debut in 2022 (along with a Champagne cellar tasting room and Art Bar). New Restaurant Uchu at Belmond Cap Juluca is taking inspiration from Belmond's collection of properties in Peru. Named after the Quechuan word for spice, the menu will feature contemporary Peruvian cuisine inspired by three of the country's regions: the coast, the jungle, and the highlands. — Scott Bay

4. Antarctica

The pandemic shutdown created a compelling reason to visit Antarctica in 2022: See how the whales, seals, and penguins react after nearly two years without seeing humans. New polar-class expedition ships and new ways to get to the White Continent are reasons to pack your boots too. Viking Expeditions will be in Antarctica for the first time in 2022 with new, twin 378-passenger expedition ships. Ponant's new 270-passenger Le Commandant Charcot introduces eco-friendlier sailing, as the first hybrid-electric ship fueled by liquified natural gas (rather than heavy fuel). Quark Expeditions' long-awaited 199-passenger Ultramarine delivers exciting heli-hiking adventures via two eight-seat twin-engine helicopters. Hit a craps table in between icy exploration on the luxurious new all-suite 200-passenger Crystal Endeavor. Silversea Cruises' posh, 144-passenger, all-suite Silver Explorer returns with a debut travel option: Skip the notorious (for rough water) Drake Passage and catch a private flight directly from Chile to Antarctica to board the ship. — Fran Golden

American travelers have long loved the Bahamas for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and sunshine just about 50 miles off the coast of Florida, but there are even more reasons to visit the island nation in 2022. Baha Mar on the Island of New Providence has a brand new water park equipped with everything from a lazy river to a surf simulator, and day passes are available for purchase to those who aren't resort guests. For more rest and relaxation, journey to the outer islands of the Bahamas. While charter flights will get you exactly where you need to go, Crystal Cruises is offering a Bahamas-centric cruise that brings guests to some of the quieter and more remote islands. On its mid-July cruise, guests will embark and disembark from Nassau and then be whisked away via "6-star" service to the islands of Bimini, Great Exuma, San Salvador, and Long Island. Beyond the beach, don't forget to indulge in some local food and culture. The Island archipelago is famous for its conch, stew fish, and rock lobster. From late April through early May, Carnival is celebrated in Nassau and back after a pandemic hiatus. Keep an eye out for the famous sound and dance of the junkanoo. — Jamie Aranoff

6. Barbados

Whether you want a relaxing all-inclusive stay or a vibrant vacation filled with dining and nightlife, Barbados has you covered. Nowhere is that more evident than the pedestrian-friendly South Coast, which is teeming with new resorts and restaurants. The O2 Beach Club & Spa is an all-inclusive resort set on the white sands of Dover Beach, with three pools, six dining options, seven bars, and the Acqua spa, featuring the only hammam treatment room on the island. It joins other luxurious South Coast hotels, including Sandals and Sea Breeze Beach House . If you can pull yourself away from the resort pools, head along the coast to Worthing Square Food Garden, an outdoor food hall with 20 vendors serving dishes from around the Caribbean. Or stroll down the mile-long boardwalk for easy access to ocean-front food and drinks at local favorites like Champers, Salt Café, Tiki Bar, and Chill Café & Bar. — Kevin Gray

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

A favorite of adventure travelers for its rainforests and divers who explore the Great Blue Hole and expansive barrier reef, Belize offers an abundance of casual spots and a handful of luxe resorts. The latest arrival is Alaia Belize, an Autograph Collection Hotel , in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, opened mid-2021 with plans to add to its already extensive guest room, suite, and oceanfront villa accommodations. Major airlines are also recognizing the destination's potential with nonstop flights and convenient connections from most U.S. cities. In addition to United and Delta's nonstop flights from Houston and Atlanta, respectively, Alaska Airlines added nonstop service from Los Angeles and Seattle to Belize City in November, and Frontier Airlines will start weekly nonstop flights from Denver and Orlando. — Patricia Doherty

8. Budapest, Hungary

Very few places in the world capture both old-world charm and elegant modernity like Hungary's capital city, and Budapest's latest 130-room luxury hotel, Matild Palace , is a shining example. The neo-baroque palace-turned-hotel, which opened last summer in the city's District V, is a UNESCO-protected site that once housed the city's royalty. The hotel is now home to Wolfgang Punk's famed restaurant, Spago , the first of its kind in central Europe. It also hosts the Duchess bar — a rooftop "liquor library" that mixes craft cocktails using local wines and pálinka, Hungarian fruit brandy, which can be enjoyed alongside panoramic views of the Danube river. Surrounded by 22 wine regions, Budapest is a city for oenophiles. Enjoy a glass of Kékfrankos or Kadarka in the Castle District's newly opened wine bar, Takler Borbár Buda , founded by one of the country's renowned winemaking families. Don't leave the city without visiting Marlou , a biodynamic wine bar near the Hungarian State Opera, and Portobello , an unassuming coffee and natural wine bar around the corner from Matild Palace. — Stephanie Andrews

9. Burgundy, France

The region of Burgundy is known for — you guessed it — its Burgundy wine, but French wine isn't the only reason Burgundy is a must-visit in 2022. In the spring, the region's capital city of Dijon will welcome the Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin (International City of Gastronomy and Wine), an expansive complex with a cooking school, a new hotel, a handful of restaurants, and a wine cellar with over 250 by-the-glass offerings. The new project is perfectly situated at the starting point of Burgundy's famed wine route — Route des Grands Crus — which runs from Dijon to Santenay and produces some of the country's most well-regarded wines, including pinot noir, chardonnay, and sauvignon blanc. — Evie Carrick

10. British Virgin Islands

Within the Caribbean, the 60 islands that comprise the British Virgin Islands have long held the reputation of luxury draped in relaxation. And now it's doubling down on that brand of island spirit with Richard Branson's second private island, the 125-acre Moskito Island that opened in October and sits right across from his first BVI paradise, Necker Island (which received a serious upgrade when it reopened last year after a two-year closure). The new destination will eventually have 10 private estates that can be rented through Virgin Limited Edition , but among the ones already available are Point Estate, starting at $17,500 a night, and Oasis Estate for $19,000. But Moskito isn't the only shiny new reason to visit BVI. Proving the area's resilience following the devastation after Hurricanes Irma and Maria, Saba Rock , the private island long known for its diving, went through a complete reconstruction before reopening in October; the Bitter End Yacht Club reopened in December with BVI's first over-the-water bungalows; and Oil Nut Bay will expand in early 2022 with new villas, a watersports center, and spa. Also on tap for 2022, the solar-powered White Bay Villas and new hilltop suites at Long Bay Beach Resort . And with the Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival returning in the spring of 2022 after being canceled for two years, BVI is proving it's truly back and stronger than ever. — Rachel Chang

11. Costa Smeralda, Sardinia

You're likely to glimpse Europe's pro athlete and yachting crowds at Marriott's four hotels on the Costa Smeralda, the glitzy Italian destination known for its Caribbean-like beaches and luxury resorts. Its glamorous Hotel Cala di Volpe has gradually been unveiling room renovations alongside new dining options, including its Harrods Suite, with a roof terrace and sea-facing plunge pool, and BeefBar 's first Italian outpost. The entire area is one big " Billionaire Experience ," but Formula One and entertainment mogul Flavio Briatore snagged the term for his new dining and nightlife venue in designer shopping destination Porto Cervo. For more of a low-key, family-friendly escape, the Baglioni Resort Sardinia opened 404 an hour south in San Teodoro in June, overlooking the stunning Tavolara Marine Reserve . — Nina Ruggiero

12. Crete, Greece

The Greek Islands have long been a perennial favorite vacation destination for discerning travelers, and Crete, the largest of the 227 islands in the archipelago, deserves a spot atop your must-see list. Yes, it's a place where you can find the white-washed buildings and blue roofs you've lusted after on Instagram for years, and a spot where you can dive into the cerulean blue waters of the Mediterranean at every turn. And of course you can dig deep into both history and mythology as humans have lived on the island since the 7th millennium B.C ., not to mention the fact that Crete is the birthplace of Zeus . It's little surprise then, with all this beauty and history, that Crete continues to harbor a rich creative community, mostly centered in the neighborhood of Chania. There, visitors can peruse works in museums like the Mediterranean Architecture Center , or seek out unique pieces in galleries like the Municipal Art Gallery or the Redd Gallery . To visit Crete, hop aboard a sailing with Silversea , which takes guests to Crete and several other stellar islands, or book a stay at the Blue Palace Elounda, a Luxury Collection Resort , named one of the Top 10 Greece Resort Hotels in Travel + Leisure 's World's Best Awards, 2021. — Stacey Leasca

13. Walt Disney World

The "World's Most Magical Celebration" — Walt Disney World's 18-month-long 50th anniversary event that kicked off on Oct. 1 — continues through 2022 with enchanting touches and highly anticipated ride and hotel openings. Star Wars : Galactic Starcruiser will begin offering its immersive, two-night adventures in a galaxy far, far away on March 1. The interactive, choose-your-own-adventure experience will have guests wielding lightsabers, sleeping on the ship, brushing shoulders with Star Wars characters, eating intergalactic cuisine, and maybe even going on a secret mission, making this a truly unique experience that you can't find anywhere else in the world. Other 2022 openings include the Guardians of the Galaxy : Cosmic Rewind indoor coaster at Epcot, slated for summer. — Elizabeth Rhodes

14. Doha, Qatar

As we ask ourselves what cities of the future should look like, we naturally look around for examples. Places like Shanghai, Tokyo, and New York City seem to fit the description on paper, but I'd argue that no city better encapsulates that definition than Doha, the capital of Qatar. There is so much to discover — from East-West/West-East , a series of four steel monoliths created by sculptor Richard Serra to the Museum of Islamic Art , the massive 560,000-square-foot gallery. Eat at Syrian comfort food spot Damasca One, Em Sherif a rooftop spot that serves up authentic regional dishes, and the lively corner restaurant Nourlaya Contemporary for Sri Lankan cuisine. Stay at the Mandarin Oriental Doha or Banyan Tree Doha . (Read Robinson's full dispatch on Doha in the July 2021 edition of Travel + Leisure) — Whitney Robinson

15. Edinburgh, Scotland

The Auld Reekie is buzzing with new energy. The highly anticipated Hotel W , designed by Jestico and Whiles in conjunction with Allan Murray Architects, is opening next winter. And several other hotels have recently opened in and around the city — Marine North Berwick , the Market Street hotel , Rusacks St. Andrews , and ship-turned-luxury-hotel Fingal . Gleneagles Townhouse , a first-ever city outpost from the famed Gleneagles estate, is opening in the spring. St James Quarter, a developing area of the city, and where Hotel W is being built, is opening next year with 85 shops, 30 restaurants, and a cinema. New in whisky is the September christening of Johnnie Walker Princes Street . And promising to shake up the scotch scene in the capital city is Leith Distillery , opening in the summer. — Scott Bay

16. Finger Lakes, New York

The Finger Lakes have bolstered their wellness and culinary offerings in recent years, carving out a name for themselves in the luxury travel realm. Inns of Aurora , comprising five historic mansions, debuted a holistic wellness facility in 2021 — set on 350 acres overlooking Cayuga Lake, complete with hydrotherapy pools, meditation areas, and a farm fresh cafe. Forty miles west of Cayuga, The Lakehouse on Canandaigua — situated on, yes, Canandaigua Lake — recently unveiled the Willowbrook Spa, which boasts lakeside barrel sauna sessions among other innovative treatments. Sandwiched between Cayuga and Canandaigua lakes is Seneca Lake, home to the largest of the Finger Lakes wine trails (this might be riesling country, but don't knock the lighter-bodied reds till you try 'em) and foodie draws like the 14-seat F.L.X. Table . Travelers visiting in the coming year will also see the Finger Lakes festival roster return in full force, including Rochester's Lilac Festival in May and International Jazz Festival in July, as well as attractions for the historically inclined road tripper, like Cayuga County's celebration of Harriet Tubman's birth through a number of walking tours and activations rolled out through 2022. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

17. Franklin, Tennessee

Despite its count of more than 80,000 year-round residents, the very walkable Franklin firmly grasps onto its small-town charms , starting with a quintessentially quaint downtown chock-full of shops and restaurants finding shelter in brick storefronts lining the sidewalks. The uninitiated might know this place for its past — Civil War museums, battleground sites, and historical markers telling the stories of a slave market, race riots, and Black soldiers in the U.S. Colored Troop division of the army all offer points of education and reflection. But the southern city has many modern-day draws as well — for starters, an exciting food and drink scene that includes the Tennessee Whiskey Trail and Arrington Vineyards , the largest winery in the region. Musical events and venues abound, too: The Pilgrimage Music Festival is one of the biggest in the state, and the 7,500-seat FirstBank Amphitheater , newly opened inside a former rock quarry, has welcomed the likes of the Jonas Brothers and Santana to its stage. There's also Leiper's Fork , a quirky-cool enclave filled with antique shops and art galleries. Even more brand-new to the scene is Southall , a 325-acre farm and inn with 62 rooms and suites and 16 cottages opening this June. The lush setting amid rolling hills makes active adventures (hiking, biking, kayaking), wellness pursuits (a spa, meditation, yoga, and two outdoor pools), and nourishing food (the restaurant uses ingredients grown, raised, and foraged on the property) easy to find. All of this and more lie just a short, 30-minute drive from bustling Nashville, making it tempting to tack onto a visit to the capital city. — Alisha Prakash

18. Galápagos Islands

The world's largest marine biosphere reserve will expand more than 20,000 square miles next year thanks to a recent presidential decree . The conservation measure seeks to combat illegal fishing by offering increased protection to the thousands of species that populate the archipelago's waters as well as a migration corridor stretching up to Costa Rica used by sharks, whales and other sea life. Come January, travelers can cruise this UNESCO-protected region on new nine-day adventures from Hurtigruten Expeditions and outfitter Metropolitan Touring aboard the 90-guest carbon-neutral MS Santa Cruz II. For a more intimate experience, passengers can book Aqua Expeditions ' seven-suite 164-foot superyacht, Aqua Mare, when it debuts in May. At the end of the year, eco-enthusiasts can sail to lesser-explored islands to spot giant tortoises, sea lions, flightless cormorants, Galápagos penguins, and marine iguanas on Quasar Expeditions ' new sustainable yacht — the 18-passenger M/Y Conservation featuring biodegradable amenities, renewable energy and a carbon-neutral footprint. Those with timid sea legs should check into the locally owned and run Montemar in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. — Nora Walsh

19. Greater Palm Springs, California

Greater Palm Springs is kicking its signature self-care into high gear in the coming year. Taking a cue from its sister property, Sensei Lanai , the new Sensei Porcupine Creek is converting a 230-acre private estate into a luxury wellness experience in Rancho Mirage in 2022. In Palm Springs proper, Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza will celebrate Indigenous art and history alongside the new Spa at Séc-he , where visitors will soak in approximately 12,000-year-old hot springs. Nearby, Fleur Noire Hotel just opened its adults-only casitas and bungalows, with a speakeasy Champagne bar to follow. Unexpectedly, the desert has a budding surf scene — the former Wet 'n Wild waterpark is becoming Palm Springs Surf Club , with a state-of-the-art wave pool, spa, restaurant, and bar; DSRT Surf is set to open a 5.5-acre wave lagoon in Palm Desert; and Kelly Slater himself is bringing a green energy–powered wave basin to Coral Mountain , a proposed new wellness resort with a hotel and residences, set to open in La Quinta by 2023 pending city approvals. And for entertainment outside the splash zone, the $250-million Coachella Valley Arena will host hockey, concerts, and more live events by the end of the year. — Nina Ruggiero

20. Greenville, South Carolina

Once in the shadow of Charleston and Asheville, Greenville has emerged in recent years as a go-to destination in its own right — and it keeps giving travelers more reasons to visit. In 2022, the city of just over 70,000 people will welcome a luxury boutique hotel, unveil a new public gathering place, and build on its well-earned reputation as a culinary and craft beer hotspot. The long-awaited, 187-room Grand Bohemian hotel is expected to open its doors this spring, complete with a two-story restaurant and bar, art gallery, and spa. The 60-acre Unity Park will feature plenty of greenspace, an observation tower, baseball fields, playgrounds, and walking and biking trails. And recently opened restaurants, including French Laundry alum Drew Erickson's Camp , Urban Wren, Coral, and an outpost of Nashville's famous Prince's Hot Chicken located inside Yee-Haw Brewing will ensure you're well-fed while in town. — Kevin Gray

21. Ilha Caldeira, Mozambique

While South Africa and Uganda grab headlines for African wildlife, Mozambique has been quietly making strides protecting 17 percent of its land — including beaches, coral reefs, and islands — showcasing its dedication to its natural beauty both on land and underwater. Ever since the country's 16-year civil war ended in 1992, the southeastern African nation has been aiming to build back in the right ways. Case in point: the private island of Ilha Caldeira, less than seven miles off the coast as part of the Primeiras and Segundas Archipelago, located within the marine-protected area with 20 percent of the country's intact living coral. It's here that the eco-luxury Banyan Tree resort chain has developed one of its most ambitious projects yet, a five-star property — accessible by jetty or helicopter — with 40 private pool villas that will be completely solar powered. Add to that a fish market restaurant with a 270-degree ocean view, the brand's trademark Banyan Tree Spa, and world-class diving, all in a too-pristine-to-believe beach setting, and this island escape is sure to draw attention away from its Indian Ocean neighbors when it opens at the end of 2022. — Rachel Chang

22. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Those wary of traveling internationally in 2022 will find solace in Jackson Hole, a mountain town with endless open space (Wyoming is the least populated state in the U.S.) and plenty to do. In the winter, life revolves around Jackson Hole Mountain Resort , home to some of the nation's best skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, plan your trip around the Jackson Hole Food & Wine Summer Festival (June 23-25) or head to the nearby Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. For easy access to the mountain town, travelers can hop on one of Aero's high-end, seasonal flights and stay at The Cloudveil off the Town Square or the Caldera House at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. — Evie Carrick

23. Kafue National Park, Zambia

Straddling three regions of Zambia, Kafue National Park is the largest (and oldest) in the country, measuring 8,648 miles. In the wildlife-rich Busanga plains — located in the secluded northern side of the park — spend the night at newly opened Chisa Busanga Camp in their bird's nest shaped rooms. Enjoy a silent safari, thanks to e-cruisers or an e-bike safari provided by the property. See wildlife from above with a hot air balloon safari from Shumba Camp or Busanga Bush Camp . Other accommodation offerings in the park include riverfront Ila Safari Lodge and Mukambi Safari Lodge . Both properties offer fishing, walking safaris, boat cruises, and have Instagram worthy pools (perfect for a soak and the traditional safari sundowner: a gin and tonic). — Mazuba Kapambwe

24. Kaunas, Lithuania

Kaunas, Lithuania has a lofty New Year's resolution. After a century of wars, Soviet rule, and, since the 1990s, independence, this UNESCO Creative City of Design is ready to cultivate a new identity — and it's doing so as one of two European Capitals of Culture for 2022 (alongside Novi Sad, Serbia). The festivities commence in January, with thousands of concerts, festivals, exhibitions, and events throughout the year to celebrate Kaunas' history while cementing its path forward . Also this year, Kaunas will welcome the highly anticipated $30 million Science Island, Lithuania's first national science and innovation center designed by UK firm Malcolm Reading Consultants (MRC). By May, the city's former Magnus Hotel will reopen with sparkly new digs and a posh rooftop under the ibis Styles umbrella 404 . This lively city is also a main stop on the recently unveiled 1,330-mile Forest Trail across the Baltics. And, a host of just-announced Ryanair flight routes, including Madrid to Kaunas, will make visiting this capital of culture a breeze. — Stephanie Vermillion

25. Kyushu, Japan

Kyushu may be less than two hours from Tokyo by plane, but it feels far from Honshū's well-beaten tourist circuit. The southwesternmost Japanese main island is still largely unexplored, providing those willing to venture off the beaten path with a much different Japan than the one they'll find in its cities. As a warm, subtropical island, Kyushu is home to long, golden beaches and some of Japan's best snorkeling and scuba diving. Inland, the country's most active volcano, Mt. Aso, feeds the island's myriad natural hot springs — many of which offer sea views. And while the island has accommodations that include both hot spring resorts and luxury beachfront villas 404 , nothing tops a stay at Hirado Castle , which was recently restored and renovated to welcome visitors overnight . — Evie Carrick

26. Lanai, Hawaii

Wellness opportunities and cultural awareness are showcased along with luxury at Lanai's two Four Seasons resorts. At Sensei Lāna'i, A Four Seasons Resort , guests can now choose the Discover Sensei Experience , offering the ability to enjoy the retreat's amenities without joining the more comprehensive programs. New "Optimal Wellbeing" programs focus on improving performance in tennis and golf along with overall wellness. Four Seasons Resort Lanai is adding an observatory as part of "Love Lanai," featuring cultural experiences designed to share the island's rich heritage. The observatory program will center around the history of Pacific voyaging, native traditions, and astronomy. — Patricia Doherty

27. Las Vegas, Nevada

Never bet against the house: The pandemic may have put a damper on Las Vegas, but the ever-on-the-move city is back in a big way for 2022. A massive new development on the Strip, Resorts World Las Vegas, opened in June, has three distinct Hilton properties under one enormous roof, not to mention more than 40 restaurants and bars, plus pools (plural), and a handful of $15,000-a-night villas . Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, the Cromwell , and downtown's Circa Resort & Casino are also giving visitors fresh options on where to stay. The city's pro sports teams — also now plural — are drawing in fans. And off-Strip "immersive experiences," like the Omega Mart by Meow Wolf and the Illuminarium, both at Area15 , are lending an additional layer of things to do beyond the expected. Not that there's anything wrong with splashing out on dinner and a show after the past two years. Live acts — like Adele's just-announced residency at The Colosseum — are once again hot tickets, as is a table at chic new supper club Delilah , at the Wynn Las Vegas. Some things, thankfully, never change. — Paul Brady

28. Louisville, Kentucky

Your cowboy boots were made for walking the streets of Louisville. Nicknamed "The Bourbon City," an official gateway to Kentucky's bourbon trail, the city is expanding its bourbon footprint in 2022. In October, the Urban Bourbon Trail welcomed the first and only African American–owned distillery in the state, Brough Brothers . Meanwhile, its trailmate, Angel's Envy , will wrap its $8.2-million expansion project complete with a new event space and five tasting rooms in the spring. The city is most well known for hosting the annual Kentucky Derby every spring at the historic Churchill Downs racetrack, and the Downs will open the first installment of its multi-year expansion plan, the Homestretch Club , just in time for the 2022 Derby. There, attendees will be able to enjoy the race with an all-new trackside lounge experience. — Hannah Streck

29. Malaysia

Malaysia is home to a beautiful medley of cultures (Chinese, Indian, and Malay) and a diverse smattering of terrain: bustling cities with towering buildings, verdant rain forests with incredible wildlife, and idyllic islands with dreamy beaches. But all of this and more has been closed to the world for much of the pandemic. Now that the island of Langkawi is open via a travel bubble, with the rest of the country expected to follow suit in 2022, travelers can once again experience Malaysia's many gifts. Langkawi, a beach lover's paradise, blends unspoiled nature (UNESCO-listed Kilim Karst Geoforest Park ) and unparalleled luxury ( Four Seasons Resort , Datai Langkawi ), while cosmopolitan capital Kuala Lumpur draws visitors with its gleaming Petronas Towers, delicious hawker food stalls, and shopping. Then there's Borneo, complete with wildlife-packed jungles and a rich Indigenous culture, as well as Desaru Coast, a 3,900-acre area that's home to coveted resorts like the One&Only Desaru Coast , a tropical oasis that opened in early September 2020 (the brand's first in Asia). — Alisha Prakash

30. Maldives

The Maldives' 1,000+ islands sit in the Indian Ocean like a string of turquoise pearls. The tropical nirvana has 166 accommodation options, including the new Joali Being nature retreat, which leads guests on a transformative wellness journey. Alila Kothaifaru Maldives debuts in February with 80 beach and overwater villas on the Raa Atoll. Coming to the same atoll in May, also with 80 luxury villas, is Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa on a massive lagoon primed for snorkeling. The ever-innovative Soneva Fushi has a new experience that includes zip-lining to a six-course meal 30 feet about the sand. Along with Soneva Jani, they've debuted Soneva Soul , a new spa complex melding ancient and modern techniques. Other vacation favorites are unveiling new digs like the sleek, contemporary renovation of Naladhu Private Island and the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island , debuting in February. — Katie Lockhart

31. Newport, Rhode Island

Newport is considered one of the sailing capitals of the world. It is home to the largest fleet of America's Cup 12 Meter yachts , most of which are available for charter. In May, the coastal town is welcoming a Sailing Museum that is sure to solidify that title. Over the past few years, a slew of hotel openings have closed a much-needed gap for luxury accommodations, including Hammett's Hotel , Brenton Hotel , and The Wayfinder Hotel . The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection is debuting the property's highly anticipated transformation conceived by Dallas-based design collective Swoon — the lobby, dining room, and shared areas are now complete with guest rooms finishing early next year. Renowned beverage executive Maxwell Britten has joined the team as chief cocktail curator alongside an amazing chef who cooks up a selection of elevated pub-inspired dishes. And don't miss Giusto , at Hammett's Hotel, which serves up excellent Italian with a Rhode Island twist. — Scott Bay

32. Nile Cruise, Egypt

There is no trip that will convert you to a life of river cruising quite like a sail down (well, technically, up) the Nile. In fact, the world's first river cruises sailed in Egypt, a country designed around the central waterway, where it makes sense that the Nile would act as your home base. A typical Egyptian river cruise sets sail from Cairo to Luxor and then Aswan, with the occasional stop to visit an island temple along the way — complete with sights like the Pyramids, Valley of Kings and Queens, Nefertari's tomb, and the Temple of Kom Ombo. In 2022, there's more than one new river cruise to choose from, between Uniworld's newly launched S.S. Sphinx and AmaWaterways' Amadahlia , both of which sailed their inaugural voyages in fall 2021. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

In late 2021, Panama launched a tourism platform along with the coolest tagline in travel: " Live for More ." With a booming coffee scene and a renewed focus on its culture, history, and biodiversity , the Central American nation is ready for its moment in the spotlight. It's an attractive place for those looking to get out of resort mode and into a world open for exploration and adventure. Immersive environmental experiences abound here, including trekking through the rainforest on its suspended hanging bridges and walking to the top of the Volcán Barú, an active volcano with both Pacific and Atlantic Ocean views from the top. There is also abundant opportunity to learn from Panama's seven Indigenous communities, each of whom offer their own personalized experiences and are happy to share their craftsmanship and traditions. Panama offers plenty of luxury, too. In its capital city, check into the American Trade Hotel , centrally located in Panama's Casco Viejo district, a historic neighborhood which happens to also be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. — Stacey Leasca

34. Phuket, Thailand

Before the pandemic, Phuket was beautiful but crowded, full of beach bars and tourists chasing all-nighters. It's still full of energy and surrounded by the same pristine sea glass–colored water, but its luxurious side is finally getting the attention it deserves, from its high-end coffee shops to its cocktail bars. Hide from the world in paradise with a stay in one of the private pool residences at Trisara , featuring kitchens, a private chef, butler service, and breathtaking views over the sea, as well as access to the resort's PRU restaurant , which has earned both a Michelin star and a Michelin green star. Or book a stay at the brand-new V Villas Phuket , which offers a curated selection of 19 private-pool, 1-, 3-, and 4-bedroom villas. Later, party the night away in Phuket Old Town with inventive cocktails at Club No. 43 (think: rum with grilled pineapple juice and espuma), or settle in for a great dinner and a night of daring performances at the Junkyard Theatre , which just launched a weekly Saturday night show. — Alison Fox

35. Pico, Portugal

The islands of the Azores — a Portuguese archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean some 900 miles west of Lisbon — are more popular than ever, and for 2022, travelers will want to fix their eyes firmly on the second-largest isle: Pico, an alluring, otherworldly locale covered with black, volcanic rocks. Conquering Portugal's highest peak, the cloud-shrouded, 7,713-foot-high Mount Pico, used to be the island's main draw, but a recent uptick in hospitality infrastructure has allowed for more opportunity to partake of Pico's most important agricultural output: wine. Renowned Portuguese winemaker Antonio Maçanita just opened a new winery that comes with bookable design-forward apartments adjacent to the island's unique vineyards. On Pico, grapes are planted on volcanic terroir that are then protected from Atlantic winds with rock walls. Maçanita's ​​ Azores Wine Company 's mineral, sometimes slightly salty wines could be the perfect celebratory drink after a grueling hike.The crashing waves around Pico are beginning to seduce surfers, too. And there are also ample opportunities to watch for marine life thanks to 20 species of dolphins and whales (including humpbacks and orcas) that can be spotted in these waters. But if you'd rather eat what's in the water: Try lapas, a local shellfish delicacy best served grilled with butter and garlic and finished with a squeeze of lemon. Thankfully, getting to experience all of this has never been easier: Starting July 1, United Airlines will for the first time connect Newark to the island of São Miguel (the Azores' largest island), and from there, it's a quick hop over to Pico. Or you could always get there via direct flights from Lisbon or Porto with Tap Air Portugal's stopover program. — Chadner Navarro

36. Quebec, Canada

After over a year of tight pandemic restrictions, Canada reopened to American tourists in 2021, so now might finally be time to plan that trip to the Great White North, starting with the province of Quebec. From the charming, French-influenced cities of Montreal and Quebec City to the region's snow-capped mountains, there's something new to explore every season. In December 2021, the first Club Med mountain resort in Canada, Club Med Quebec Charlevoix , opened, offering all-inclusive ski vacations just a short flight from several major U.S. cities. Regent Seven Seas Cruises is offering a foliage-packed autumn cruise from New York to Montreal in October. No matter what time of year you visit, Le Capitole Hotel in Quebec City and Humaniti Hotel Montreal are top picks for places to stay in the major cities. — Elizabeth Rhodes

37. Queensland, Australia

Australia's highly anticipated international border reopening will be well worth the wait, especially as more travelers seek nuanced cultural experiences and sustainable stays. The northeastern state has long been the gateway for visits to the rightly beloved Great Barrier Reef, and beginning in 2022, visitors can learn about conservation efforts and the ecosystem directly from the area's Traditional Land Owners and Indigenous guides during day trips from Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel . Aboriginal elders and Traditional Land Owners are also working with local operator Gudjuda Tours on a daylong excursion to tag and rescue one of the reef's most beloved creatures: sea turtles. Those who want to take a more extended trip to the Whitsunday Islands can look to Elysian Retreat , recently certified as the area's first fully solar-powered resort, or its carbon-negative sister property Pumpkin Island . Back on the mainland, within the verdant Daintree Rainforest UNESCO World Heritage Site, eco-luxury hideaway Silky Oaks Lodge will finally welcome guests back after its $15-million overhaul. — Sarah Bruning

38. Santa Ynez Valley, California

Two hours from L.A., the Santa Ynez Valley is rural, unassuming, and coming into its own. The region has grown grapes for decades and has even made a Hollywood cameo in the movie Sideways. The arrival of newer tasting rooms, restaurants, and hotels in recent years has firmly put the area on oenophiles' and travelers' radars. Start with a private olive oil tasting at Global Gardens and hard cider at Tin City Cider in Los Olivos. Follow with pizza pies at Full of Life Flatbread and vino at nearby female-owned A Tribute to Grace and Casa Dumetz . Detour to Firestone Walker 's outpost in Buellton for a few limited edition craft brews and finish with dishes such as roasted tomato and fennel risotto at the Ballard Inn's Gathering Table 404 . Though it's technically just beyond the boundaries of the valley in Lompoc, The Hilt Estate , is too good to miss. And once it opens this year as an Auberge property, The Inn at Mattei's Tavern will make for the perfect base from which to explore it all. — Tanvi Chheda

39. São Paulo, Brazil

Known for its dynamic combination of luxury, design, and fashion influence, São Paulo is an international metropolitan hub of arts and culture. It's the largest city in South America, hosting an array of entertainment opportunities such as fabulous hotels, decadent restaurants, high-class museums, and iconic mid-century architecture. With airlines including American adding flights throughout Brazil in 2022 and a flourishing hospitality renaissance throughout the city, São Paulo is well prepared for its anticipated influx of new travelers. A must-visit destination for 2022 is the Rosewood São Paulo , located in the heart of São Paulo's Cidade Matarazzo and housed in a historic landmark building. Here, visitors will encounter 200-plus luxurious guest rooms, suites, and residences, plus six restaurants and bars and two pools. — Molly O'Brien

40. Savannah, Georgia

This coastal Georgia city is rightly famous for its atmospheric, moss-draped streets and squares, not to mention its hundreds of years of history. But lately Savannah has been boosted by creativity and innovation outside the sometimes frozen-in-amber Old Town, which means now is a particularly compelling time to visit. Make home base the brand-new Thompson Savannah 429 , a slick 13-story tower with interiors by Studio 11 Design that anchors the still-developing Eastern Wharf neighborhood. Phase one of the 54-acre development, which aims to turn a once-industrial waterfront into a contemporary mixed-use destination, includes hundreds of apartments, fitness trails, access to the Savannah River, and multiple bars and restaurants, including Fleeting , a seasonally driven spot inside the Thompson. At the same time, Savannah's other major waterfront destination has also come into its own. The Plant Riverside District, a stone's throw from Old Town, marked its official grand opening in November 2021, putting a bow on a bustling JW Marriott hotel , countless restaurants and bars, and multiple live performance venues all along a rebuilt waterfront. Not that all the action is along the river: The ever-evolving Starland District, a short drive from Johnson Square, has its share of hangouts including Starland Yard , a food truck park that's also home to the excellent Pizzeria Vittoria Napoletana ; Two Tides Brewing Company , which pours hazy ales and delicious sours in a super-cool taproom; and Troupial , a Venezuelan cafe. You'll also want to pack Wildsam Savannah , a newly released field guide that helps visitors understand the layers of history (and the contemporary politics) that are fueling the latest renaissance in Savannah. — Paul Brady

41. Seattle, Washington

Few places offer both an urban and a natural escape in one destination — and the Emerald City might be one of the best. The city center is world-class with top hotel accommodations ( Four Seasons Hotel Seattle and Thompson Seattle ), locally focused fine dining, and countless cultural sites. Then, just minutes away from all of that is some of the most stunning outdoor recreation out there. Adding to the city's luster is the newly opened Lotte Hotel Seattle . The 189-room tower is bringing high design and refined service to the area. Charlotte , the hotel's restaurant on the 18th floor, serves up an inventive menu that is sure to become an all-time favorite dining experience. The landmark Fairmont Olympic Hotel recently completed a $25-million historic restoration of its public spaces, quickly becoming one of the most Instagrammable spots in town. Plus, its buzzy new culinary showpiece will debut in the months to come. Before leaving Seattle, don't miss a meal at celebrated pasta specialist Brian Clevenger's new restaurant, Autumn . — Scott Bay

42. Sedona, Arizona

Makito Umekita/Travel + Leisure

With tourism already surging thanks to the Instagram fame of attractions like Devil's Bridge, Sedona garnered even more of a following during the pandemic among cooped-up city dwellers enthralled by the destination's red rocks and energy vortexes. In 2022, set your sights on North America's first landscape hotel, Ambiente , home to 40 standalone accommodations (called "atriums"), most with private rooftop decks perfect for stargazing. Opening in May, the sustainability-focused retreat will offer on-site trailhead access — further immersing guests in the Sedona landscape while combating traffic along the city's main highway — and reactivate an ancient waterway to populate a stream running throughout the hotel. Experience Sedona's culinary clout right on property at Ambiente's restaurant, Forty1, housed in a refurbished airstream, or venture next door to Mariposa , the city's must-visit restaurant by chef Lisa Dahl, who pioneered fine dining in this town. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

43. Singapore

Singapore reopened to vaccinated American travelers in October 2021 with the introduction of the country's Vaccinated Travel Lane . Travelers can fly from the U.S. on Singapore Airlines' vaccine-mandatory flights ; the World's Best airline 26 years running launched Vaccinated Travel Lane flights this fall, and United Airlines plans to follow suit by January 2022. Even in the early stages of reopening to foreign travelers, the city-state is already unveiling new culinary ventures. Recently, chef Julien Royer, behind three-Michelin-star Odette, opened Claudine , and Raffles Singapore unveiled Osteria BBR 404 by Alain Ducasse, while Marina Bay Sands plans to debut chef Tetsuya Wakuda's second restaurant within the hotel in the new year. Of course, there's just as much flavor to be found at Singapore's famed hawker centers, now on the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage. As tourists return to Singapore, new cultural attractions follow — from the return of Singapore Art Week, beginning Jan. 14, to the recent unveiling of SkyHelix Sentosa , an open-air ride towering 300 feet above sea level, for anyone still in need of thrills after a 17-hour flight over the Pacific. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

44. Southwest Michigan

Beaches with ocean-like views were once the main draw to Michigan's southwest coast, but new high-style accommodations and hyper-local experiences are giving us more reasons to go. Where to stay with so many options? Consider the cool new motel-turned-boutique Lake Shore Resort in Saugatuck; The Fields glamping retreat with new spa tents in South Haven; the revamped, modern Harbor Grand Hotel in New Buffalo; or anywhere along the coast with high-touch Bluefish Vacation Rentals , which has killer lakefront homes now stocked with handmade local goods. Hop on the new pedestrian/bike trail in Union Pier, and definitely shop two new woman-owned standouts: the beautifully curated Haven and Ariane Prewitt's AP Cottage, scheduled to open this spring. Women are showing off the culinary scene, too, with everything from a special saison ale — winner of the 2021 Great American Beer Festival — at woman-owned Waypost Brewing Co. , to new herb-inspired cocktails at James Beard-winning chef Melissa Corey's Penny Royal Café & Provisions , to James Beard nominee Abra Beherns' Granor Farm , where dinners return this year in a new glass-enclosed barn. — Nina Kokotas Hahn

45. St. Moritz, Switzerland

If you're on the hunt for glitz, glamour, and powder for days, look no further than St. Moritz, Switzerland. The Alpine ski town has long been considered the birthplace of winter vacationing. Tourists first flocked to the mountain town in 1864 , when hotelier Johannes Badrutt took a few British travelers to the community, promising them bluebird days all winter. It wasn't long until others learned about this hidden winter oasis. Skiers and winter sports enthusiasts flocked to the mountain, which has now hosted the Winter Olympic Games not once, but twice. It's an ideal place for ski bunnies too, thanks to its luxury shopping, and its numerous Michelin-starred restaurants . This winter, head to St. Moritz for its fantastic events like White Surf (Feb. 6, 13, and 20, 2022), an international horse race that takes place across the frozen Lake St. Moritz, and the Snow Polo World Cup 404 (Jan. 28-30, 2022), which happens to be the world's only high-goal tournament on snow. Book a stay at the Badrutt's Palace Hotel , which officially reopened on Dec. 3 for the 2021/2022 season and offers guests the chance to try their hand at high-octane winter sports like skijöring, snowkiting, tobogganing, and even private helicopter tours to the peaks of Piz Bernina and Piz Palü. — Stacey Leasca

46. St. Pete/Clearwater, Florida

The beaches of St. Petersburg and nearby Clearwater are consistently ranked among the best in the U.S. and even the world , but there's more to this destination than white sand, pristine waters, and 361 days of sunshine per year. St. Pete/Clearwater offers more than 30 museums and galleries featuring world-renowned artists like Andy Warhol and Pablo Picasso, as well as the largest collection of Salvador Dalí's work outside of Spain. One could say brewing the perfect beer is also an artform that St. Pete/Clearwater has mastered, with its trail of 35+ locally owned craft breweries. Playfully nicknamed the " Gulp Coast ," complete your experience with a digital passport that tracks your beer-sampling progress. These year-round offerings mean you can visit any time, but head over in June 2022 to revel in the 20th anniversary of St. Pete Pride , the largest Pride event in Florida, hosting events for everyone from friends and families to couples and solo travelers. — Jessica Poitevien

47. Todos Santos, Mexico

Todos Santos is one of Mexico's pueblo mágicos, or "magic towns," and locals are working to retain its history and culture while embracing the steady stream of travelers who have begun venturing an hour north of Cabo San Lucas to discover its charm. The area saw a handful of new boutique resorts pop up in 2021 that provide luxury amenities while keeping the rugged land and local flora the centerpiece. Wellness-focused Paradero describes itself as a "landscaping project" that just so happens to have luxurious suites, and El Perdido , an all-villa resort less than five miles south, provides all-terrain vehicles so visitors can get to Los Cerritos beach, the local surf break of choice. Oceanfront Rancho Pescadero 's multimillion-dollar transformation will be complete in the spring. Bookings for its oceanfront villas and penthouse rooms — some with private rooftops and plunge pools — open in January. Todos Santos has fully embraced farm-to-table dining, with Javier Plascencia's orchard-adjacent Jazamango leading the way, and Santa Terra , a cosmopolitan oyster bar meets arts and entertainment venue concept, is in the process of adding multiple bars and restaurants, plus a glamping site and amphitheater, according to its developer, "without chopping down a single tree." — Nina Ruggiero

48. Udaipur, India

After an extremely challenging 20-month closure, India reopened to vaccinated travelers on Nov. 15, 2021. Those looking toward South Asia in the new year, perhaps to see the Taj Mahal in Agra or hit the Goan beaches, should make sure Udaipur is on the itinerary. The city of lakes in southern Rajasthan is thought of as the most romantic Indian destination (even called the "Venice of the East") — but it's not just for honeymooners. From the vibrance of Hathi Pol bazaar and Shilpgram , an artisanal compound on the outskirts of the city with a festival set to return on Jan. 22, to the serenity of Lake Pichola, the artificial lake made in the 14th century, Udaipur is a city where you can fully immerse in Rajasthani culture. A hub of Indian luxury, Udaipur is now home to the country's first Raffles hotel, which opened in October. This private island hotel on Udai Sagar Lake is accessible only by boat — something of a trademark for the over-the-top hotels of Udaipur. Meant to be a flagship hotel in the Raffles portfolio, complete with brand staples (think: bars, both Long and Writers), 101 lavish suites, Rasoi cooking school, and lakeside open-air restaurant Belvedere Point. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

49. Wales, United Kingdom

The only path in the world to follow the whole of a country's coastline, the Wales Coastal Path celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2022. Walking its 870 miles would take three months, but its most spectacular stretches can be seen in one visit — and in style. St David's in Pembrokeshire, west Wales, is Britain's smallest city with a mere population of 1,600 and is home to a Medieval cathedral , a luxury hotel inside Roch Castle , some excellent pubs, and the upscale St David's Gin & Kitchen . Hiking paths with unbeatable coastal vistas are within easy reach (try the St David's Head loop ) and pass neolithic tombs and hillforts. — Jamie Carter

50. Yucatán, Mexico

Mérida, the capital of the state of Yucatán, has emerged as one of Mexico's most popular cities thanks to its lively restaurant scene, a busy calendar of cultural events, and a relaxed tropical atmosphere. Increasingly, however, travelers are venturing beyond the city to explore the state's unspoiled nature reserves, ancient Maya sites, and sprawling haciendas — a number now converted into hotels. Among the destinations that are drawing travelers to Yucatán are El Cuyo, a quiet beach town that was long a closely guarded secret of windsurfers. Now visitors can also enjoy gourmet Mexican fare at the El Chile Gordo restaurant and boho-chic lodgings at the new Casa Mate . In Espita, a charming colonial town near Valladolid, is the Casona los Cedros hotel which opened in summer 2021. Sisal, a historic port in the western part of the state, has attracted new interest since being named a Pueblo Mágico at the end of 2020. A new highway completed in April now connects Sisal to Hunucmá (and then beyond to Mérida) making it easier for beachcombers to visit, and perhaps spend the night at the cool Club de Patos 404 . — John Newton

51. Bonus: Space

This was a monumental year for human spaceflight — not only did NASA and SpaceX achieve a regular cadence of astronaut launches for the first time since the Space Shuttle was retired in 2011, but space tourism has also lifted off in a major way, making space a top destination to visit in 2022. And it's a realistic trip, too, so long as you have the budget for it. Both Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic succeeded in taking passengers to space on short suborbital hops this year, and each company plans to ramp up those flights in 2022 — Virgin Galactic already has more than 600 bookings. The price for a quick jaunt to space? A few hundred thousand dollars . If you have an even bigger budget (say, a couple hundred million dollars), you could charter your own orbital flight in a SpaceX Dragon Capsule, as did entrepreneur Jared Issacman with his Inspiration4 mission in September. There are also tourism trips to the International Space Station in the works; Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa launches on his multi-day journey in December, courtesy of space travel agency Space Adventures and Russia's Roscosmos space agency, which plans to take even more " citizen space explorers " to the orbiting laboratory in the near future. Of course, not everyone has pockets deep enough to cover space travel, but more affordable journeys are on the horizon. Startup Space Perspective plans to launch high-altitude balloon rides to the edge of space in 2024 , for the relatively low price of $125,000. Potential dealbreaker, though — the balloons don't actually reach space, maxing out at 100,000 feet in altitude, while space is considered to begin somewhere between 264,000 feet (50 miles) and 327,360 feet ​​(62 miles). But hey, at least there's a bar on board. — Stefanie Waldek

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80+ Eye-Popping Travel Facts and Stats [2023]

Travel is kind of a big deal for most of us.

In honor of all things wanderlust, we’ve rounded up 80+ surprising facts and stats about travel to help you appreciate just how incredible it really is.

Top 10 Fun Travel Statistics and Facts to Know in 2023

General fun travel stats and facts, social media, smartphones, airbnb, and work vs. travel, air travel: trivia facts and statistics.

• The most visited countries in the world are France (89.4M), Spain (82.7M), and the US (79.6M).
• Lower air pressure and dryness in the plane cabin reduce your taste buds’ sensitivity to sweet and salty foods by ~30%, which is why food tastes different when flying.
• It’s still 2015 in Ethiopia due to alternate calculations in determining the annunciation date of Jesus’ birth.
• Bulgarians shake their heads from side to side to mean “yes” and nod up and down to say “no.”
• The shortest scheduled passenger flight is the Loganair Westray to Papa Westray route in Orkney, Scotland, which lasts around one and a half minutes. The record for the fastest flight is 53 seconds.
• The world’s longest town name is “Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch.” It sits on the Welsh island of Anglesey, across the Menai Strait from the city of Bangor.
• Monaco is smaller than Central Park in New York. Yet, nearly one in three people who live there are millionaires.
• The island of Yap uses rocks as currency.
• Travelers gain an average of ~0.6 pounds (~0.3 kg) during a 1–3 week trip.
• About 40% of Generation Y choose travel destinations based on how Instagrammable the pictures will turn out.

Do you need passport photos? Find out more:

• US Visa Photo
• Passport Photos Near Me
• How to Take a Passport Photo at Home?
• Italy has a free, 24/7 wine fountain in the small town of Ortona, Abruzzo.
• Of 1.42M lakes on planet Earth, Canada is home to 62% of them.
• Roughly 600 people help run and maintain the Eiffel Tower every day. 
• Jet lag is worse after traveling east than west. That’s likely due to greater difficulty of advancing rather than delaying the body’s internal clock.
• While the official languages of Papua New Guinea are Hiri Motu, Tok Pisin, and English, the nation is considered the most linguistically diverse, with nearly 820 languages.
• France covers more time zones than any country (12), followed by Russia (11), the United States (11), and Antarctica (9).
• Indonesia comprises over 17.5K islands with a total coastline of 50.5 miles (81.3K km).
• Libya has the highest percentage of deserts: 99%.
• The least visited country in the world is Tuvalu, located halfway between Australia and Hawaii.
• About 27% of the Netherlands is below sea level. 
• Australia is the only country in the world that occupies a whole continent.
• Norway and Sweden have the most islands globally, mainly in the Arctic.
• Greenland is the largest island on the planet.
• Canada has the longest coastline globally, bordering three oceans with its thousands of islands.
• Mongolia has the lowest population density of around 4.4 people per square mile (~1.7 people/sq km).
• There are roughly 6.5K languages in the world today. Yet, nearly 97% of the population speaks just 4% of them.

• The world’s shortest geographical place name is the Norwegian town of Å (pronounced “aw”), which means “river” in the Scandinavian languages.
• Every coin thrown into Rome’s Trevi Fountain is collected every day and donated to charity.
• The time in China follows a single standard time offset of UTC+08:00, even though the country spans almost five geographical time zones.
• The White Mountains of California are home to Methuselah, a 4,853-year-old tree.
• Australia has over 10K beaches. It’d take 27 years to visit a new one every day.
• The Northern Hemisphere is home to ~6.4B people (around 87% of Earth’s population).
• Known as the “City of Bridges,” Pittsburgh boasts 446 bridges—more than any other city, including Venice.
• Iceland is a mosquito-free country.
• France has the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants.
• The most visited city in the world is Hong Kong (29M+ visitors yearly), followed by Bangkok (24M+) and London (19M+).
• Finland was ranked the happiest country in the world in 2022.
• Malaysia boasts the world’s largest hotel, the First World Hotel, with 7.3K+ rooms.
• Only 11% of Americans have been to 10 countries or more.
• Louvre is the most visited museum globally, followed by Beijing’s National Museum of China and Tate Modern in London.
• There was a village spelled  “Fucking” in Austria until 2021, whose residents were known as “The Fuckingers.” The village’s name has recently been changed to Fugging.
• The world’s longest road is the Pan-American highway, with a length of 30K miles (48.2K km), which stretches from Canada to South America.
• The global revenue of the travel industry dropped by 42% in 2020 due to coronavirus.

• The US recorded a tourism revenue loss of ~$147B between January and October 2020.
• The United States’ Magic Kingdom (Walt Disney World) was visited by ~7M people in 2020, becoming the most visited amusement park globally.
• New York is the leading city destination in America, welcoming ~5.42M foreign visitors every year.
• 89% of US travelers checked social media during their most recent vacation.

• 55% of vacationers spend between 30 and 120 minutes daily on social media sites.
• Most Americans (71%) check their smartphones 32–80 times per day on average when traveling—10% admit they take a peek ~160 times every day.
• A little over 50% of travelers decided to visit a destination after seeing its images and/or videos from friends, family, or peers on social media.
• 60% of Americans post photos on social media while away. In the case of Millenials, that number shoots up to 97%.
• Friends’ photos on Facebook impact over 50% of users’ travel plans.
• 1M+ travel-related hashtags are searched on Instagram weekly.
• About 70% of US travelers update their Facebook status while on vacation.
• In 2015, Justin Bieber shot a music video for “I’ll Show You” at the Fjadrárgljúfur canyon in Iceland. Fast forward a few years, and tourism to the once-sleepy town almost doubled.
• Instagram boasts 300M+ posts with the word “travel” in them.

• Airbnb has 7M+ listings worldwide.
• With a market cap of ~$104.25B, Airbnb ranks first among the top online travel companies.
• The number of US travelers who use Airbnb likely reached 45.6M in 2022.
• Every second, roughly six guests check into Airbnb rentals.
• Airbnb is active in ~98% of the world. Exceptions are North Korea, Syria, Iran, and Sudan.

• 59% of travelers are ready to spend extra to make their trip more sustainable.
• 61% of people say the COVID-19 pandemic encouraged them to travel more sustainably in the future.
• 36% of vacationers become angry when their companion constantly takes photos or selfies.
• 75% of American travelers consider their cell phones the number one travel accessory.
• Six in 10 travelers say using smartphones for work made them unable to relax and recharge their batteries.
• 60% of US working professionals say their managers expect them to stay connected while on vacation.
• Just over half of workers (55%) feel they should respond to work emails while away, even if the company doesn’t require it.
• 66% of employees in America wish they’d been unreachable from work during their most recent vacation.
• 69% are less likely to quit after taking a workation.
• The US is the only developed country in the world without a single legally required paid vacation day. In contrast, every EU country has at least four work weeks of paid vacation.
• During a 10-hour flight, men can lose ~66 ounces of water (~2 liters) and women ~54 ounces (~1.6 liters).
• Boeing 747 uses around one gallon of fuel (4 liters) every second. Throughout a 10-hour flight, it might burn 36K gallons (150K liters).
• During a routine flight, the temperature outside the plane ranges from -40°F to -70°F (-40°C to -56°C).
• There are ~61K people in the airspace above the United States at any given moment.

• Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is the world’s busiest airport located in Baiyun-Huadu, Guangzhou, Guangdong.
• The longest nonstop commercial flight is from Los Angeles to Singapore (serviced by United Airlines), scheduled at 17 hours and 50 minutes.
• Qatar Airlines’ Auckland to Doha route is the longest flight globally by distance, at 9,032 miles (14,535 km).
• The most expensive airport taxis worldwide are in Hiroshima and Oita airports in Japan, with fees reaching $165.
• Pilots and co-pilots are advised not to eat the same food. The rationale being if something is wrong with the meal, the unaffected pilot could always take over.

What are the most visited countries in the world?

The most visited countries in the world are France ( 89.4M ), Spain ( 82.7M ), and the US ( 79.6M ). Each country has a rich history and boasts fantastic scenery, from stunning beaches to breathtaking mountains.

How long is the world’s shortest flight?

The shortest scheduled passenger flight is the Loganair Westray to Papa Westray route in Orkney, Scotland, which lasts around one and a half minutes . The record for the fastest flight is 53 seconds .

What country has the most time zones? 

France covers more time zones than any other country: 12 . It’s followed by Russia ( 11 ), the United States ( 11 ), and Antarctica ( 9 ).

How many languages are there in the world?

There are roughly 6.5K languages in the world today. Yet, ~ 97% of the population speaks just 4% of them.

What’s the most visited city in the world?

Hong Kong is the most visited city in the world, welcoming 29M+ tourists yearly. It’s followed by Bangkok ( 24M+ ) and London ( 19M+ ).

What’s the happiest country in the world?

Finland ranked as the happiest country in the world in 2022. It’s attained consistently high rankings in the top education systems, although Finland is occasionally surpassed by countries such as Singapore, South Korea, and Japan.

How many travelers use Airbnb?

The number of US travelers who use Airbnb likely reached 45.6M in 2022. This means one in four Americans would have used the platform at least once by the end of 2022.

Do tourists want to be sustainable?

About 59% of travelers are ready to spend extra to make their trip more sustainable. This is good news for the planet and businesses that offer sustainable travel options.

What is the world’s longest flight?

The longest nonstop commercial flight is from Los Angeles to Singapore. It’s serviced by United Airlines and lasts 17 hours and 50 minutes .

Stacking It All Up

There you have it.

A comprehensive list of surprising travel statistics and facts you can use to spice up your knowledge.

Let us know in the comments if there are any other unusual travel statistics you’d like to see.

Fair Use Statement

Did you like our infographics? If so, feel free to share them with your audience. Just remember to mention the source and link back to this page.

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As a Digital PR specialist and a member of the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ), Max has 5+ years of writing experience. Over the course of his career, Max’s work has garnered significant attention, with features in numerous prominent publications such as The New York Times, Forbes, Inc., Business Insider, Fast Company, Entrepreneur, BBC, TechRepublic, Glassdoor, and G2.

40 Crazy Travel Facts

By Scott Dye

Travel can be many things: scary, profound, educational, and sometimes, life-changing. It can also be quite surprising.

Accordingly, we scoured the internet and found 40 crazy travel facts. enjoy, 1.  the german word “fernweh” means “far sickness,” or an intense urge to travel., 2. jet lag feels worse if you travel from west to east., 3. good for the soul and the heart: taking a vacation can lower your risk of heart disease..

4. The U.S. is the only developed country in the world without a single legally required paid vacation day or holiday. Yikes.

5. 99% of libya is desert ., 6. there are 61,000 people in the air over the u.s. at any given time on any given day. that’s a lot of skymiles, 7 . one-third of the world’s airports are located in the u.s., 8. the shortest international commercial flight available for purchase is a 15 minute trip from sint maarten (dutch caribbean) to anguilla (british overseas territory)., 9. the pilot and his assistant must eat different food in order not to upset their stomachs at the same time., 10. there’s a good chance you may see a lake or two when visiting canada. in fact, it has over three million lakes . that’s 60% of the world’s total., 11. if traveling to thailand, it’s important to know the official, full name of bangkok is: (see image below).

12. There’s a lot to explore when heading to Russia. Incredibly, the country is bigger than Pluto .

13. there is a town in norway just called a ., 14. bring a full bottle of water with you when in saudi arabia. this country officially has zero rivers ., 15. over 820 languages are spoken in papua new guinea , or 12% of the world’s total., 16. during a normal flight, the temperature outside your plane is around -60ºf .  that’s colder than almost anywhere on earth at any given moment of the year., 17. a single boeing 777 engine delivers twice the horsepower of all the titanic’s engines combined . giddyup, 18. there is enough fuel in a boeing 747 plane to power a car around the entire planet 4 times ., 19. the eiffel tower is a daily place of work for 600 parisians ., 20. need some beach time australia has over 10,000 beaches . if inclined you could visit a new beach every day for over 27 years..

21. Travel to Antarctica is rare for most people, but not for meteorites. 90% of all meteorites are found there.

22. the great barrier reef is the only living structure visible from outer space., 23. introvert personalities are more likely to pick mountainous locations for a holiday, while extroverts prefer the beach., 24. with its abundance of happy words, spanish is rated as the happiest language in the world . time for some rosetta stone, 25. presently, almost 50% of americans research, book, and plan their trips to a new travel destination using only a mobile device., 26. did you know, in morocco, there are goats that regularly climb trees to have a meal, 27. continents shift at about the same rate as your fingernails grow . nailed it, 28. the northern hemisphere is home to 90% of the world’s population., 29. sloths get a bad rap for being lazy, but amazingly they can hold their breath underwater for up to 40 minutes ..

30. Kiribati is the only country in the world to fall into all four hemispheres , straddling the equator and extending into the eastern and western hemispheres.

31. unbeknownst to many, more than 30 million people in china live in underground caves., 32. all roads lead to rome especially when there’s a city named rome on every continent (aside from antartica, of course)., 33. no matter where you travel, you’ll probably spot a cow. there’s a good chance you spot their buddy nearby too, as research has found that cows have best friends ., 34. don’t want a crash while on a safari it could be a good thing, as a group of rhinos goes by the name crash ., 35. efficiency is the name of the game. panama city’s tocumen international airport has the least number of canceled flights in the world with a cancellation rate of just 0.07 percent ., 36. mexico city is sinking by up to 15 inches a year in certain places., 37. the famous “panama hat”  actually comes from the country of ecuador ., 38. rice was used in the construction of the great wall of china . resourceful.

39. You can lose more than 60 fluid ounces of water from your body during a ten-hour flight. Stay hydrated amigos.

40. and lastly, need some inspiration travel has been proven to increase creativity ., 2 responses to “ 40 crazy travel facts ”.

I am a huge travelling person and i just loved reding this article … thank you for sharing this .

wow !!! Amazing post .. I was really looking for this kind of post , as i am fond of travel and knowing about travel is something i like. thanks a lot for sharing this.

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280 Best Travel Trivia Questions and Answers

Think you’re a travel buff? How well do you know the world beyond your backyard? I’ve compiled the best list of travel-related trivia questions and answers to liven up your trivia nights with friends or make those long road trips more enjoyable.

These questions will take you on a global journey, quizzing your knowledge across the United States, Europe and beyond. Ready to test your travel IQ? Let’s dive in.

If you’d like a printed version of the travel trivia questions you can find it in my shop buck & co.

Fun Travel Trivia Questions for Road Trips or Quiz Nights (Answers Included!)

• About what percentage of flights are delayed per day? Answer: 20%
• According to the legend, what did St Patrick’s drive out of Ireland? Answer: Snakes
• Antarctica is a Desert, true or false? Answer: TRUE
• Approximately how many airplane flights depart and land every day? Answer: 100,000
• Approximately, how much money is thrown into Rome’s Trevi Fountain each day? Answer: approx. 3,000 euros
• Are There Native Snakes In New Zealand? Answer: No
• Big Ben is located in what European city? Answer: London
• Bodeguita del Medio in Havana, Cuba claims to be the birthplace of what cocktail? Answer: A mojito
• Easter Island is known for having 1000 of these? Answer: Statues
• Encanto is based in which South American country? Answer: Colombia
• Haggis is the national dish of which country? Answer: Scotland

• How big is Monaco? Answer: 2 km²
• How long is the Great Wall of China? Answer: 21,196 km
• How many capital cities does South Africa have? Answer: 3
• How many countries still have a royal family? Answer: 43
• How many Emirates does the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have? Answer: 7
• How many floors are in the Empire State Building? Answer: 102
• How many hours is the longest commercial flight? Answer: 18
• How many islands does Australia have? – 53, 8,222 or 15,644? Answer: 8,222
• How many islands does Spain have? Answer: 60 islands
• How many stars does the United States of America flag have? Answer: 50
• How many states start with the word, “new”? Answer: 4 (New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York)
• How many Wonders of the World are there? Answer: 7
• How tall is the Eiffel Tower (to tip)? Answer: 324 m
• In the movie King Kong, Kong climbs what US building? Answer: Empires State Building
• In what country would you find tapas? Answer: Spain
• In what US city can you find the Golden Gate bridge? Answer: San Francisco

• In which capital city can you find the Parthenon? Answer: Athens
• In which city would you find Heathrow and Gatwick airports? Answer: London
• In which Country are Cows seen as sacred? Answer: India
• In which country did cheesecake originate? Answer: Ancient Greece
• In Which Country Do We Say Jultomten Which Means “The Christmas Gnome”? Answer: Sweden
• In which country is Angkor Wat temple? Answer: Cambodia
• In which country is Christmas island? Answer: Australia
• In which country is pig beach? Answer: The Bahamas
• In Which Country is the ‘Thumbs Up’ Gesture considered an insult? Answer: Iran
• In which country is the Great Sphinx? Answer: Egypt
• In which country is the Loch Ness? Answer: Scotland
• In Which Country Is The Plain Of Jars? Answer: Laos
• In which country is the world’s highest waterfall? Answer: Venezuela
• In which country is Zanzibar located? Answer: Tanzania
• In which country was the airline Ryanair founded? Answer: Ireland
• In Which Country Will You Find Sigiriya, The Lion Rock Fortress? Answer: Sri Lanka
• In which country would you find the currency ‘baht’? Answer: Thailand
• In which country would you find the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park? Answer: China
• In which famous natural landmark is Nemo born? Answer: The Great Barrier Reef
• In which Italian city was the pizza invented? Answer: Naples
• In which museum can you find the Rosetta Stone? Answer: The British museum
• In which Spanish city is the Sagrada Familia? Answer: Barcelona
• In which state is the Grand Canyon? Answer: Arizona
• In which state would you find Mount Rushmore? Answer: South Dakota
• India trains transport how many passengers per day? Answer: 23,000,000
• It’s The Great Wall of _____ Answer: China
• London’s Winter Wonderland happens in which park? Answer: Hyde Park
• Machu Picchu is located in which country? Answer: Peru

• Maté is the National Drink of which South American Country? Answer: Argentina
• Mount Kilimanjaro is located in which country? Answer: Tanzania
• Mulan is from what country? Answer: China
• Name Italy’s Most Popular Frozen Dessert? Answer: Gelato
• Name the first state to enter the union. Answer: Delaware
• Name The Four President’s Heads Who Are Carved Into Mount Rushmore. Answer: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln
• Name The Largest Art Museum In The World? Answer: The Louvre, Paris
• Name the largest city in the world: Answer: Tokyo
• Name the last state to enter the union Answer: Hawaii
• Name the smallest country in the world: Answer: The Vatican City
• On what Caribbean Island can you swim with pigs? Answer: Bahamas
• Pizza originates from which European country? Answer: Italy
• Princess and the Frog is set in what US city? Answer: New Orleans
• Puerto Rico is a territory of what country? Answer: United States
• RAK is the code of which airport? Answer: Marrakech Airport
• Rome–Fiumicino International Airport is named after a famous artist. Which one? Answer: Leonardo Da Vinci
• Russia has how many time zones? Answer: 11
• Saigon in Vietnam changed its name to what in 1976? Answer: Ho Chi Minh City
• Saltfish and ackee is the national dish of which country? Answer: Jamaica
• Since 1971 the ‘Door to Hell’ has been burning in which country? Answer: Turkmenistan
• Spain has the world’s largest food fight, what food is thrown? Answer: Tomatoes
• Spain is the largest producer of this pitted fruit: Answer: Olives
• Stinky Tofu is the National Dish of which Country? Answer: Taiwan
• Sydney Opera House is a famous landmark of this country: Answer: Australia
• The ancient Colosseum amphitheater is located in which European city: Answer: Rome
• The Appalachian National Scenic Trail goes through how many states? Answer: 14
• The archaeological site of Petra is found in what country? Answer: Jordan
• The Aurora Borealis is also known as? Answer: The Northern Lights
• The Big Banana is a landmark in which country? Answer: Australia
• The Blue Lagoon is located in which country? Answer: Iceland
• The breakfast dish, Huevos rancheros is from which country? Answer: Mexico
• The Canadian Flag has which icon it on? Answer: Maple Leaf
• The Dish Poutine belongs to which Country? Answer: Canada
• The famous “Panama hat” actually comes from this country Answer: Ecuador
• The kebab is from which country? Answer: Turkey

• The longest boardwalk in the world exists in this city and state. Answer: Atlantic City, New Jersey
• The Rome Colosseum is one of the Wonders of the World? True or False? Answer: TRUE
• The rotten meat of this animal is the national dish of Iceland: Answer: Shark
• The second oldest tree is 4,000 years old. Where does it live? Answer: Iran
• There’s a bench at the Taj Mahal named after someone, who is it? Answer: Princess Diana
• Travelling in what direction makes jet lag worse? Answer: West to East
• True or False – There is a town named Condom in France. Answer: TRUE
• True Or False, The North Pole Has No Land? Answer: TRUE
• What American city is known as “The Big Easy”? Answer: New Orleans
• What animal only resides in Borneo or Sumatra? Answer: Orangutans
• What are the names of the 7 continents? Answer: Asia, Africa, Antarctica, Europa, North America, South America, Oceania/Australia
• What Australian city do Marlin and Dory swim to in the movie Finding Nemo? Answer: Sydney
• What city has the most bridges in the world? Answer: Hamburg
• What city in India has the largest population? Answer: Mumbai
• What city is the Liberty Bell located in? Answer: Philadelphia
• What continent is home to the newest country in the world? Answer: Africa
• What countries national airline is named “Aer Lingus” Answer: Ireland
• What countries share the world’s longest international border? Answer: Canada and USA
• What country consumes the most cheese per person? Answer: France
• What country does not to have a rectangle or square flag? Answer: Nepal
• What country has the largest pyramid (by volume) in the world? Answer: Mexico
• What country has the most neighbors? Answer: China and Russia
• What country has the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites? Answer: Italy
• What country has the Phi Phi islands? Answer: Thailand
• What country has the tallest people in the world? Answer: The Netherlands
• What country is completely land-locked in South America? Answer: Bolivia or Paraguay
• What Country Is Obsessed With Eating KFC On Christmas Day? Answer: Japan
• What country is the island of Mykonos is part of? Answer: Greece
• What country would you find the archaeological site of Troy? Answer: Turkey
• What currency did Italy use before the Euro? Answer: Lira
• What does DC, in Washington DC, stand for? Answer: District of Columbia
• What does ESTA stand for? Answer: Electronic System for Travel Authorization
• What does UNESCO stand for? Answer: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
• What European city is known as “The City of Lights”? Answer: Paris
• What famous sea touches Ukraine, Russia, Georgia, Turkey, Bulgaria and Romania? Answer: The Black Sea
• What fast food chain has the most locations in the world? Answer: McDonald’s
• What grain was used in the construction of the Great Wall of China? Answer: Rice
• What is a TGV in France? Answer: High-Speed Train
• What is Canada’s national animal? Answer: Beaver
• What is escargot? Answer: Snails
• What is Europe’s most mountainous country? Answer: Switzerland
• What is Italy’s national dish? Answer: Ragu alla Bolognese
• What Is Located North Of Arctic Circle Considered As Christmas HQ? Answer: Rovaniemi, Lapland
• What is Scotland’s national dish? Answer: Haggis
• What is Scotlands National Animal? Answer: A Unicorn
• What is the biggest city in China? Answer: Shanghai
• What is the busiest airport in the USA? Answer: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
• What is the busiest airport in the world? Answer: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
• What is the capital city of Afghanistan? Answer: Kabul
• What is the capital city of Switzerland? Answer: Bern
• What is the Capital City of Turkey? Answer: Ankara
• What is the capital of Australia? Answer: Canberra
• What is the capital of Brazil? Answer: Brasilia
• What is the capital of Ukraine? Answer: Kyiv
• What is the currency of South Korea? Answer: South Korean Won
• What is the deepest lake in the world? Answer: Lake Baikal
• What is the Dragon Khan? Answer: A roller coaster in PortAventura Park (Spain)
• What is the driest continent? Answer: Antarctica
• What is the highest mountain in Africa? Answer: Mount Kilimanjaro
• What is the highest point in the world? Answer: Mount Everest, Nepal/Tibet
• What is the largest Australian airline? Answer: Qantas
• What is the largest city in the world by population? Answer: Tokyo
• What is the largest country by size? Answer: Russia
• What is the largest country in Africa? Answer: Algeria
• What is the largest hot desert in the world? Answer: Sahara Desert
• What is the largest island in the world? Answer: Greenland
• What is the largest sized airport in the world? Answer: King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, Saudi Arabia
• What is the least visited country in the world? Answer: Tuvalu
• What is the longest highway in the United States? Answer: Route 20 (Massachusetts to Oregon)
• What is the most Northern Capital City? Answer: Reykjavik
• What Is The Most Photographed Landmark In Australia? Answer: Sydney Opera House
• What is the most popular tourist city in the United States? Answer: New York City
• What is the most southerly capital city in the world? Answer: Wellington
• What is the most spoken language in the world? Answer: Mandarin Chinese
• What is the most visited country in the world? Answer: France
• What Is The Most Visited Tourist Attraction In The World? Answer: Times Square
• What is the most widely eaten food in the world? Answer: Rice
• What is the national animal of Canada? Answer: The Beaver
• What Is The National Dish Of Hungary? Answer: Gulyás (Goulash)
• What is the National Dish of Spain? Answer: Paella
• What Is The Nickname For The Clock At The End Of The Palace Of Westminster? Answer: Big Ben
• What is the nickname of New York City? Answer: The Big Apple
• What is the only living structure visible from space? Answer: The Great Barrier Reef
• What is the population density for England? Answer: 434 per km2
• What is the southernmost capital city in the world? Answer: Wellington (New Zealand)
• What is the tallest building in the world? Answer: Burj Khalifa
• What is the White House’s address? Answer: 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington DC
• What is the world’s busiest international airport? Answer: Dubai International Airport
• What is the world’s largest island? Answer: Greenland
• What is the world’s largest salt desert? Answer: Gran Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia
• What is the world’s longest designated hiking trail? Answer: Pacific Crest Trail
• What island famous island prison is located in California? Answer: Alcatraz
• What museum has The Starry Night by Vincent Van Gogh? Answer: Museum of Modern Art in New York City
• What percentage of the earth is water? Answer: 71%
• What river runs through London? Answer: River Thames
• What river runs through the Grand Canyon? Answer: Colorado River
• What Scandinavian country is the safest country in the world? Answer: Iceland
• What Sea is to the North of Turkey? Answer: The Black Sea
• What shape is a samosa? Answer: Triangle
• What Texas city is home to The Alamo? Answer: San Antonio
• What three colors make up Germany’s flag? Answer: Black, red and yellow
• What type of flowers is Holland known for? Answer: Tulips
• What type of geographical feature is the Stromboli? Answer: A volcano
• What US city has the busiest cruise port in the world? Answer: Miami
• What US city is the Space Needle located in? Answer: Seattle
• What US state is the film Lilo & Stitch set in? Answer: Hawaii
• What Was Ho Chi Minh City Previously Called? Answer: Saigon
• What’s the capital of Australia? Answer: Canberra
• What’s The Name Of The Famous Mosque In Abu Dhabi? Answer: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
• Where are the Spanish Steps located? Answer: Rome, Italy
• Where Can You Find The Seven Coloured Earths? Answer: Mauritus
• Where did the bungee jump originate? Answer: Auckland, New Zealand
• Where is the best-preserved meteor crater located? Answer: Winslow, Arizona
• Where is the Great Pyramid in Egypt? Answer: Cairo, Giza
• Where Is The World’s Largest Nativity Scene Located? Answer: Einsiedeln, Switzerland
• Where was the capital of Spain before Madrid? Answer: Toledo
• Where would you find the Callanish? Answer: The Isle of Harris in Scotland
• Which 4 US presidents are in Mount Rushmore? Answer: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln
• Which actress portrayed Cheryl Strayed in Wild? Answer: Reese Witherspoon
• Which airline’s logo has a red maple leaf? Answer: Air Canada
• Which Asian country has more than 17,000 islands? Answer: Indonesia
• Which author wrote the book Eat, Pray, Love? Answer: Eat, Pray, Love
• Which capital city has a name that means “good airs” in English? Answer: Buenos Aires in Argentina
• Which capital city has the most Michelin stars in the world – London, Paris or Toyko? Answer: Tokyo
• Which Central South American Country Is Home To The Largest Salt Flats In The World? Answer: Bolivia
• Which city (not in Poland) has the highest Polish population in the world? Answer: Chicago
• Which city do croissants originate from? Answer: Vienna
• Which city has more cars than people? Answer: San Marino, Italy
• Which city is known as the “City of Seven Hills”? Answer: Lisbon, Portugal
• Which City Is Referred To As ‘The Windy City’? Answer: Chicago
• Which city is situated on two continents? Answer: Istanbul
• Which Cocktail Originated In The Raffles Hotel, Singapore? Answer: Singapore Sling
• Which colour is the Easyjet logo? Answer: Orange
• Which Continent Doesn’t Have Ants? Answer: Antarctica
• Which Continent is Mexico in? Answer: North America
• Which Countries flag has an AK47 on it? Answer: Mozambique
• Which country celebrated the millennium in 2007? Answer: Ethiopia
• Which country does NOT have a rectangular flag? Answer: Switzerland
• Which country gifted the statue of Liberty to the United States? Answer: France
• Which country has the longest coastline? Answer: Canada
• Which country has the most lakes? Answer: Canada
• Which Country has the most Muslims in the world? Answer: Indonesia
• Which country has the most pyramids? Answer: Sudan
• Which country has the most time zones? Answer: France
• Which country has the world’s highest waterfall? Answer: Venezuela
• Which country is bigger than Pluto? Answer: Russia
• Which country is called “The Emerald Isle”? Answer: Ireland
• Which country is called the “Land of Fire and Ice”? Answer: Iceland
• Which country is called the Land of the Rising Sun? Answer: Japan
• Which country is Caracas the capital of? Answer: Venezuela
• Which country is considered “happiest” in the world? Answer: Finland
• Which country is home to the most volcanoes? Answer: Indonesia
• Which country is made up of 180,000 islands? Answer: Finland
• Which Country is the World’s Tallest Living Man from? Answer: Turkey
• Which country is Timbuktu located in? Answer: Mali
• Which country makes the most money on tourism? Answer: The United States
• Which country was the movie ‘The Beach’ filmed in? Answer: Thailand
• Which country’s Olympic blobsled team is featured in Cool Runnings? Answer: Jamaica
• Which currency is in used in Bali? Answer: Indonesian rupiah
• Which European capital was built on 14 islands? Answer: Stockholm
• Which European city is the Acropolis located in? Answer: Athens (Greece)
• Which fabric device opens up during a skydive? Answer: Parachute
• Which famous museum has a glass pyramid at the front? Answer: Le Louvre

• Which is the friendliest city in the world? Answer: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
• Which is the most bicycle-friendly city in the world? Answer: Copenhagen
• Which island country is known as the ‘Island of Spice’? Answer: Grenada
• Which island group includes Ibiza, Menorca, and Majorca? Answer: Balearics
• Which Italian Landmark Dates Back To 70AD? Answer: The Colosseum in Rome
• Which lake is called the ‘jewel of the Italian lakes’? Answer: Lake Como
• Which London bridge is nicknamed “wobbly bridge”? Answer: Millennium Bridge
• Which New York airport has the same name as a US President? Answer: JFK airport
• Which North American country’s name means “Rich Coast”? Answer: Costa Rica
• Which river flows through Paris? Answer: River Seine
• Which river formed the Grand Canyon in Arizona, USA? Answer: Colorado
• Which sport is also referred to as sailboarding? Answer: Windsurfing
• Which sport is Kelly Slater known for? Answer: Surfing
• Which state is known as the “Sunshine State”? Answer: Florida
• Which two cities did the original Orient Express travel between? Answer: Paris and Istanbul
• Which two countries are the Iguazu Falls part of? Answer: Argentina and Brazil
• Which two countries officially begin with “The”? Answer: The Gambia and The Bahamas
• Which two South American countries share Lake Titicaca? Answer: Bolivia & Peru
• Which US state does key lime pie come from? Answer: Florida
• Which US State has a one syllable name? Answer: Maine
• Which US state makes the most money on tourism? Answer: California
• Which US university was the sports drink Gatorade named after? Answer: The University of Florida—the Florida Gators
• Which USA state has the biggest land area? Answer: Alaska
• Which volcano is located near Tokyo and considered a sacred mountain? Answer: Mount Fuji
• Who has more Pyramids, Egypt or Sudan? Answer: Sudan
• With a population of 37 million, which is the largest city in the world? Answer: Tokyo
• Zanzibar is an island off which African Country? Answer: Tanzania

And that about wraps up our list of the best travel trivia questions and answers. With a mix of global and local inquiries, they bridge cultures and spark curiosity. So, as you delve into the world of travel, remember that knowledge, laughter, and shared experiences are the true souvenirs of any journey. Happy quizzing on trivia night with friends or on a road trip!!

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A travel expert who has been to more than 90 countries says these are the best under-the-radar destinations

• Samantha Brown shared three underrated travel destinations to avoid crowds.
• Brown has visited over 90 countries in her 20-year career as a seasoned travel host.
• She said Australia and Canada offer unique experiences.

From Europe and Asia to South America and Australia, Samantha Brown has been to more than 90 countries around the world.

The Emmy-award-winning travel host of the PBS show " Samantha Brown's Places to Love " takes viewers across the globe to share what it's like to experience different cultures.

She's been hosting travel shows on various networks for 25 years, including Travel Channel's "Great Vacation Homes."

In a recent conversation with Business Insider, Brown highlighted three underrated destinations that will wow you without the crowds.

Darwin is an underrated destination in Australia.

Darwin is at the top of Australia in the Northern Territory.

"It's closer to Asia than it is to Melbourne or Sydney," Brown said. Singapore is about 300 miles closer than Melbourne, according to Google Maps.

Despite the roughly four-hour flight between Darwin and these more popular Australian destinations, Brown says it's a hidden gem worth visiting because of its unique landscapes in the two bordering national parks, Mary River and Litchfield.

The surrounding national parks may make you feel as if you're on another planet.

Brown travels to Darwin to see waterfalls, pools, and unique landscapes at Mary River and Litchfield National Parks.

"You're in this phenomenally different landscape from the Outback. Darwin feels as if you are not only hitting a new country but a new planet," she said. "It's unlike anything you've ever seen. And I think if you've traveled that far, you need to see that."

If you enjoy train travel, board the Ghan from Darwin to Adelaide. It is known as one of the most scenic railways in the world , with dramatic landscapes inaccessible by other transportation modes.

If you can't get to Europe, take a trip to Montreal.

"If Europe is too expensive, go to Montreal ," Brown said.

The city in Canada's eastern province of Quebec is just a 90-minute flight from NYC.

The French-Canadian city feels like Paris, according to Brown.

The French-Canadian city reminds Brown of Paris with historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and French culture.

Most Montreal locals speak French, and with a European aesthetic, it's easy to see why Brown considers it a comparable destination.

"Montreal is one of the best cities in the world," she said. "The 400-year-old city feels like Europe for half the cost."

She's particularly a fan of the public art scene. According to the city's website , more than 1,000 pieces are displayed around Montreal and are free to view.

Brown recommends taking yourself on a free tour. From the streets to the underground metro stations, Montreal is full of art.

"I love public art, and I love places that we are all allowed to inhabit with no money," Brown said.

A great place to start is Place Jacques Cartier , a public square filled with street artists and vendors, as BI previously reported.

Costa Rica may not seem like a hidden gem, but it is during the rainy season.

In Central America, Costa Rica is a hot spot for tourists. From beaches and jungles to volcanoes and cloud forests, travelers can have a range of experiences in one trip.

But fewer tourists visit in the summer, as Costa Rica's wet season begins in late May and spans six months.

Many tourists don't know that the rain clears up midseason for July.

In the midst of the wet season, rain stops in Costa Rica in July, Brown told BI.

"It happens every year, just for the month of July," she added.

Since many travelers assume Costa Rica is rainy all summer, prices for flights and hotels decrease.

"You can go to the Caribbean side, where all the resorts are, or you can go to the interior, where there are volcanoes and rainforests," Brown said. "You're going to a place that everyone loves to go to. The biodiversity is off the charts. But you're going at a time when no one thinks to go."

For more ideas on where to travel this summer , Brown released the ultimate itinerary in a Summer Travel Trends Report in collaboration with Klarna.

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Data shows Toronto is the most sought-after destination for Canada Day getaways

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If you're a Toronto resident who's looking to do some travel over the Canada Day long weekend, it might be time to think again: according to new data, you already live in the hottest destination for Canada Day travellers.

The long weekend is right around the corner and, according to data from Expedia , it's shaping up to be one of the — if not the — busiest travel weekends of the entire summer, and it's the 6ix that travellers have their sights set on.

According to the data, a whopping 32 per cent of people travelling domestically this Canada Day long weekend are booking tickets to Toronto, trumping other major cities in the country like Montreal (25 per cent) and Vancouver (23 per cent).

For those travelling internationally, New York leads the pack at 31 per cent, but Cancun and Las Vegas appear to be the fastest growing in terms of popularity, with search traffic up 112 per cent and 61 per cent respectively.

The surge in travel for Canadian vacationers couldn't come at a better time, it seems, as Expedia recently also dropped their 24th annual Vacation Deprivation Report , and found that more than half the surveyed Canadian workers felt they weren't getting enough vacation.

There's no time like the present, and no better type of weekend than a long weekend to finally get that well-deserved RnR — and if you happen to be staying in (or visiting) Toronto over the weekend, there's plenty of things to do .

Vadim Rodnev /Shutterstock

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