Where most travelers dream of going: countries and cities named

Every year, millions of travelers share their impressions of their favorite countries and cities, forming ratings of the most popular tourist destinations. Travel preferences change, but some places remain consistently attractive to visitors.

The Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards 2024 announced the winners in 22 categories, where the choice of more than 168,000 participants became the basis for summarizing the results. OBOZ.UA offers to find out about the countries, cities, and regions that topped this year's ratings.

The most desirable countries: Australia, Canada, and Japan

For the third time in four years, Australia has won the title of the most desirable country in the world, thanks to the rich culture of indigenous peoples and unique natural landscapes. Travelers appreciate Australia for its combination of modern megacities and remote wilderness areas. Canada was awarded silver in the ranking, and Japan won the bronze medal for its combination of traditional culture and modern technology.

European leadership: Italy and Croatia

Italy has once again confirmed its status as the most popular country in Europe. In addition to the famous Venice and Florence, lesser-known places attract the attention of tourists: Bologna, Matera, and Umbria. Croatia, which received silver, offers tourists fabulous landscapes of the coast and islands. The bronze award went to France, a traditional center of culture and gastronomy.

The most attractive cities in the world: Tokyo, Singapor,e and Rio de Janeiro

Tokyo has become the leader among the most attractive cities in the world for the first time. This city fascinates with its combination of ancient temples and modern skyscrapers. The silver prize went to Singapore with its futuristic architecture, and the bronze to Rio de Janeiro with its world-famous carnivals and beaches.

The best European cities: Madrid and Istanbul

Madrid won gold among European cities thanks to the opening of the Gallery of Royal Collections, which added to its cultural importance. Istanbul won silver for its unique status as a city on the border of Europe and Asia, and Dubrovnik, with its medieval architecture, received a bronze award.

The most desirable regions of the world: Galapagos Islands and the Greek Islands

The Galapagos Islands have become the most attractive region in the world, offering unique opportunities for observing rare animals. In Europe, the Greek islands, are known not only for their beauty but also for sustainable tourism, for example, cars are prohibited on Hydra.

The best islands: Sri Lanka and Malta

Sri Lanka has risen to the top of the ranking for the first time thanks to its new Pekoe Trail, a hiking route that runs through tea plantations. In Europe, Malta took the gold with its rich historical heritage and natural beauty.

A new tourist destination

Uzbekistan, as part of the Silk Road, won gold in the Best New Destination category for the first time. Samarkand and Bukhara continue to fascinate with their history and architecture, and the country's natural landscapes only add to its appeal.

Gastronomic leader

France has once again confirmed its dominance in the field of gastronomic tourism. From Michelin-starred restaurants to traditional village markets, the culinary culture of this country remains unsurpassed.

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