Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas USVI. By. GETTY IMAGES
A new report from Expedia has revealed St. Thomas U.S. Virgin Islands as the fastest-growing travel destination for the upcoming summer.
The island has seen a 45 percent increase in search interest compared to last year, propelled by improved flight connections from the mainland United States. St. Thomas offers travelers a Caribbean paradise accessible without a passport, making it an appealing choice for U.S. tourists.
"To be recognized on Expedia’s Summer Outlook top ten destinations is a great," stated Tourism Commissioner Joseph Boschulte. "However, Being number one is awesome. Our team celebrates this accomplishment and look forward to continuing to work to bring more visitors to the territory."
Following closely behind in popularity are San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Cleveland, Ohio, both recognized for their unique blends of cultural attractions and vibrant city life. San Juan has enjoyed a 35 percent increase in travel interest, with its beautiful beaches and rich history. Similarly, Cleveland has been acknowledged for its cool city vibe and plethora of activities, leading to a significant boost in tourism interest.
The report also highlights other key destinations experiencing substantial growth in traveler interest. Indianapolis, Indiana, known for its dynamic downtown and family-friendly attractions, reported a 35% surge in searches. Las Vegas, Nevada, continues to attract visitors not just for its casinos and nightlife but also for its burgeoning family-oriented and entertainment offerings, with searches up 20% from last year.
Napa County, California, and Honolulu, Hawaii, are also among the top destinations, celebrated for their scenic beauty and tourist-friendly amenities. Napa is renowned for its vineyards and has been likened to Tuscany for its rolling hills, while Honolulu is favored for its optimal mix of urban convenience and natural beauty.
Lesser-known but rapidly gaining attention are Mackinac Island, Michigan, and Kauai, Hawaii. Both destinations offer a more tranquil and nature-centric experience compared to their more frequented counterparts. Mackinac Island is cherished for its idyllic summer getaway appeal, and Kauai, the Garden Island, provides a lush, peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the busier tourist spots in Hawaii.
This diverse list of destinations reflects a wide range of interests among U.S. travelers, from city explorations and cultural deep-dives to quiet, picturesque escapes.
