The Global Destination Cities Index by Master Card was recently released, detailing the most visited cities in the world for 2013. The top ten cities includes some names of major destinations like Paris, London and New York, as well as some other cities that might surprise you.
The graphic breaks each travel destination down by number or annual visitors, popular attractions and cheap hotels that travellers could stay at. One of the most inexpensive places to stay is the 'Hotel Chinatown 2' in Kuala Lumpur, which offers rooms for just $16/night.
According to Master Card, the number one most visited city for 2013 was Bangkok, Thailand, with an astounding number of over 15.98 million visitors per year.
Top Travel Destination Graphics
Master Card Reveals 2013's Most Visited Cities in the World
Trend Themes
1. Rising Tourism in Bangkok - An opportunity for the hospitality industry to expand in Bangkok
2. Growth in Budget Travel - An opportunity for hotels to capitalize on the demand for cheap accommodations
3. Expansion of Tourist Attractions - An opportunity for entrepreneurs to create unique tourist experiences in popular cities
Industry Implications
1. Hospitality - The industry can benefit from the influx of tourists in popular destinations like Bangkok
2. Travel - Travel companies can tap into the growing demand for budget travel and offer more affordable packages
3. Tourism - Entrepreneurs can create innovative tourist attractions to cater to the increasing number of travellers