British Airways (BA), a UK-based airline, has announced its list of the top 13 destinations to visit in 2013.
The airline company expects the coming year to see far more UK residents visiting Far Eastern destinations. And a recent survey conducted by the airline for its Facebook page shows that 22 percent of the respondents want to visit New York in 2013, while 8 percent would like to visit Australia.
Richard Tams, the airline head of UK and Ireland sales, said, ‘Undoubtedly consumers will continue to be driven by value-for-money next year, with routes such as Dubai, Cape Town and Bangkok already proving popular. We’re also experiencing a real growth in Asia right now and responding to demand with a number of new routes, including Seoul and Sri Lanka.’
Sri Lanka heads the 13 for 2013 list, with many more tourists showing an interest in visiting the country. Ash van Wensveen, the airline destination manager, said, ‘There’s a real buzz about Sri Lanka right now. For a small island it offers a lot, from endless beaches, to elephant treks and several Unesco world heritage sites to visit – it’s hard to think what Sri Lanka doesn’t offer.’
Rio de Janeiro, in Brazil, will be hosting the 2016 Olympic games, the 2014 Brazil World Cup, and FIFA Confederations Cup in 2013, and is also gaining plenty of tourist interest.
Of the Asian destinations, Seoul, in South Korea, makes it to the list. Mike Rock, the airline commercial manager in Seoul, said, ‘There’s a lot happening in Korea right now, business is thriving and it’s a tourist destination on the up. The mega metropolis is home to some 10 million people, and is attracting a fresh new audience.’
Ho Chi Minh City, in Vietnam, also appears on the list as, as does Dubai, in the UAE. Ash van Wensveen, said, ‘Dubai has become more affordable over the past few years, yet still offers super high-end hotels and unrivalled luxury.’
The top 13 destinations, in order, are, Sri Lanka, Rio de Janeiro – Brazil, Seoul, Korea, Croatia, Vietnam, Punta Cana – Dominican Republic, Derry – Northern Ireland, Las Vegas – USA, Tbilisi, Georgia, San Diego – USA, Cape Town – South Africa, Alicante and Dubai.
