Top 10 Fastest-Growing Travel Destinations Globally in 2017 – Number One Is Palestine

By Rita

When it comes to traveling abroad, due to limited vacation time and budget, most Taiwanese people may still opt for short getaways to Japan or Southeast Asia. But if you look globally, you might discover a whole different landscape.According to CNN, a recent survey report by the United Nations World Tourism Organization showed that many of the top 10 fastest-growing travel destinations in 2017 are relatively unknown. Although immediate travel may not be feasible, long-term planning could make it possible to visit these lesser-known places someday.

Here are the 10 global destinations that surged in popularity in 2017

▲ Historical sites in Israel. (Photo / Darzhi / Illustration)

10th Place – Israel
Over the past year, Israel’s tourism growth rate increased by 25.1%. Must-see attractions include the fortress atop Masada, a historic hilltop.

9th Place – Mongolia
The landlocked country of Mongolia has seen a 28.3% rise in tourist numbers this past year, thanks to its unique landscapes and relatively pristine nomadic culture. Highlights include the Orkhon Waterfall in Övörkhangai Province.

8th Place – Nicaragua
Nicaragua is a Central American country experiencing rapid growth in tourism. So far, tourist numbers have risen by 28.4%, with its unique volcanic wonders attracting many visitors, such as Cerro Negro volcano.

▲ Beach in Punta del Este, Uruguay (Photo / Darzhi / Illustration)

7th Place – Uruguay
Recently, the beach in Punta del Este, Uruguay, has drawn significant attention from tourists and attracted many visitors. The growth in off-season tourist numbers in 2017 reached 30.2%.

6th Place – Vietnam
Vietnam is the fastest-growing tourist destination in Asia, beloved for its street food and the natural beauty of its countryside.

5th Place – Tunisia
Two years ago, Tunisia was hit by terrorist attacks, which severely impacted its tourism industry. However, the sector has gradually recovered over the past two years, especially its beaches, sand dunes, and historical sites, which are now highly favored by travelers. Tourist numbers rose by 32.5%.

4th Place – Iceland
Although Iceland went through bankruptcy, surprisingly, its tourism industry has consistently ranked among the top 10 choices for international travelers. Its unique landscapes have given it an irreplaceable appeal. In 2017, tourist numbers grew by 34.9%.

3rd Place – Northern Mariana Islands
This island may be relatively unknown to many, but it is located in the Pacific Ocean. Its distinctive pastoral scenery and island atmosphere led to a 37.3% increase in tourist numbers.

2nd Place – Egypt
Egypt is almost a timeless travel destination. Despite multiple terrorist attacks and political unrest, the 51% rise in tourist numbers shows that none of these disturbances could deter visitors from riding camels and seeing the pyramids.

▲ Historical and religious sites in Palestine (Photo / Darzhi / Illustration)

1st Place – Palestine
Although Palestine is also a region with considerable political instability, its tourism performance has been surprisingly strong, with a remarkable 57.8% growth. Attractions include Ottoman-era palaces and historical religious sites.