The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has released its latest report on Tourism Highlights, unveiling the most popular destinations in the world for international tourists. France tops the ranking with 83.02 million foreign visitors in 2012, and comes in 3rd in international tourism receipts (US$53.70 billion), thanks to its attractive romantic atmosphere. The United States ranks 2nd for receiving 66.97 million international arrivals last year, with a whopping total income of US$126.21 billion. China earned a 3rd spot for receiving 57.73 million international visitors in 2012, followed by Spain with 57.70 million.
Most destinations among the top 10 are European countries. China and Malaysia are the only two Asian destinations included, with China's Hong Kong and Macao ranking 13th and 20th respectively.
The following are the world's top 10 tourism destinations.
Malaysia
Malaysia [File photo] |
International tourist arrivals in 2012: 25.03 million
International tourist arrivals in 2011: 24.71 million
Change (2012/2011): 1.3 percent
International tourism receipts: US$20.25 billion