These are the most popular international destinations where Americans are traveling this holiday season. Mexico pops up a few times, and we just had over 30 Globe Aware volunteers in Mexico this month!

Top 10 International Destinations Americans Are Heading To This Christmas

BY: Dale Peterson
Travel off Path

These are the most popular international destinations where Americans are traveling this holiday season.

According to data gathered by travel insurance company Allianz, holiday travel is up 17% compared to 2021.

Aerial view of cancun hotel zone with a boat in the ocean, destinations

Although U.S. destinations like New York City and Orlando top the charts for domestic travel, these are the 10 most popular international destinations for American travelers this Christmas.

1. Cancun, Mexico

Cancun regularly tops the list of most popular destinations for American travelers, especially those from the East Coast.

This Mexican destination is set to reach 95% occupancy rates this winter as Americans flock to its beautiful beaches to escape the cold.

2. San Jose del Cabo, Mexico

Another beach destination in Mexico that’s exploding in popularity this winter is Cabo.

On the Pacific Coast of the country, many Americans are discovering that they like Cabo more than Cancun. Cabo is known for its stunning beaches and for being the “wellness capital” of Mexico.

3. London, England

Many Americans are heading across the pond this Christmas, with London topping the charts for most popular European destinations.

London at Christmas is a magical experience. The city’s streets are transformed with Christmas lights and decorations, and there’s so much to do, from seeing the iconic Big Ben clock to visiting Buckingham Palace to admiring the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London.

4. Montego Bay, Jamaica

Sunny Jamaica is another one of the top international destinations for Americans this Christmas.

If you want to escape the cold winter weather back home, there’s nowhere better to go than Montego Bay, where you can sip a cold drink on the beach and listen to the sounds of reggae music.

5. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Another Pacific Coast destination in Mexico that’s popular with Americans is Puerto Vallarta.

This city is known for its great beaches, water sports, and nightlife. If you’re looking for a fun Christmas getaway abroad, you’re guaranteed to find it in Puerto Vallarta.

6. Nassau, Bahamas

The Bahamas are a chain of islands that are in close proximity for many U.S. travelers, just 50 miles away from Florida.

Visitors are attracted to Nassau because of its great beaches, resorts, and beautiful coral reefs, popular with scuba divers and snorkelers. Short and frequent flights from the U.S. make this island destination an easy getaway for American travelers.

7. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is known for being one of the cheapest Caribbean islands to visit this winter.

Punta Cana is a popular destination because of its beautiful beaches and affordable all-inclusive resorts. For a Christmas getaway that won’t break the bank, this is a great place to go.

8. Oranjestad, Aruba

Although it’s a little more far-flung, located in the Southern Caribbean not far from the coast of Venezuela, Aruba has long been a tourism hotspot.

With plenty of resorts, beautiful beaches, and nightlife, Aruba’s status as “One Happy Island” makes it a great place to spend a tropical Christmas.

9. Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

For a truly unforgettable Caribbean vacation, many Americans head to Turks and Caicos. These islands are a paradise on Earth, with white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters.

Turks and Caicos is known for being a great scuba diving destination. It’s also home to many luxury resorts if you want to splurge on a relaxing Christmas vacation.

10. Paris, France

Finally, Paris is another European destination Americans are heading to this Christmas.

The City of Love is more beautiful than ever around Christmas, with decorations, lights, Christmas markets, and holiday shopping.

Although the majority of the most popular international destinations for travelers involve warm weather, sunshine, and tropical beaches, Paris is a great choice for travelers who want to experience Christmas in Europe.