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Although alluring, international travel can be somewhat of a gamble.
For U.S. citizens, leaving the border means going through customs, possibly paying a tourist fee, and getting acquainted with another language and customs.
Despite some of the barriers to international travel, there are three destinations Expedia.com has seen increasingly high bookings.
Punta Cana, Cancun, and Mexico City are the top 3 international destinations for U.S. travelers right now.
Here’s what makes these destinations so unique:
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Paradise is the word most people use when describing Punta Cana. The city is renowned for its beautiful beaches, particularly along the Coconut Coast. It is a place that travelers can’t seem to get enough of.
Visitors could spend their entire trip sinking their toes into the white sands and bathing in the turquoise waters of famous beaches such as Bavaro and Macao Beach. Yet Punta Cana has much more to offer.
Despite the beautiful beaches, travelers want authentic experiences. They are looking to create memories on their trips, not just take a bunch of postcard-worthy photos.
Fortunately, Punta Cana delights travelers with its authenticity, culture, and uniqueness.
Something for every type of traveler
Everyone knows that every traveler is different. Some enjoy more relaxed experiences, while others seek the adrenaline rush of adventure travel. Of course, some fall in between and want both peace and excitement.
Punta Cana offers something special for every traveler. With so many activities, you might visit wanting to relax on the beach but end up jet skiing or snorkeling.
You could even end up experiencing adventures on land by visiting Bacaro Adventure Park, which offers zip lining, off-roading, and horseback riding.
If you don’t feel like seeing your life flash before your eyes while you dangle cables above the forest, you can always calm your nerves on the golf course. Additionally, there is also BlueMall Punta Cana if you prefer shopping as a relaxing sport.
Great weather all year long
Lastly, Puna Cana is on the top list of places to visit because there’s no wrong time to go.
The summer months, July through September, can exhibit some extreme heat.
However, most of the year, the temperatures are between 72°F and 88°F. So whether you’re looking for a spring break adventure or a place to escape to in winter, Punta Cana is one of the best destinations.
2. Cancun, Mexico
Did you know that Cancun was once barely inhabited? It is hard to imagine the now popular metropolitan city was once nothing but dirt. And 100s of years before the tourism project in 1970, Cancun was once a Mayan civilization.
Now, the city has become a modernized place that still honors its ancient history. The El Rey Archaeological Zone, located in the center of the hotel zone, houses numerous Mayan stone structures. It's no wonder that travelers gravitate toward the city that offers culture, history, and world-class tourism.
Cancun is the one destination where U.S. travelers know they can experience it all and not have to travel too far from home.
The infamous hotel zone of Cancun will provide you with all the touristic amenities and stunning beaches. However, you don’t have to travel far to experience more authentic and local culture.
The downtown area is where you can find street tacos and less flashy attractions.
It’s important to note that this area is also where many local people live. Therefore, visitors must be respectful and mindful while visiting.
Being a respectable traveler by observing before interacting, lowering any expectations, and being conscious of what you do or say can help preserve the magic of Cancun’s local culture.
Breathtaking nature
While the spectacular beaches are enough reason to love Cancun, the area also offers more beauty with its spectacular cenotes.
Cenote Selvatica, La Noria, Verde Lucero, and Mojarras are among the most popular. These nature-crafted sinkholes within a limestone cave are great for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
3. Mexico City, Mexico
The country south of the U.S. isn’t just a tropical getaway. Another reason why U.S. travelers visit this country known for tequila and tacos is because of the variety it offers.
As the country’s capital, Mexico City and its surrounding areas make up one of the largest metropolitan areas in the Western Hemisphere. It is also one of the oldest capitals in the Americas; it’s no wonder this city houses the most museums in the world.
For travelers seeking culture and history and being dazzled by a city’s blend of local and foreign cultures, Mexico City is the perfect destination.
Endless cultural experiences
The city is jam-packed with cultural experiences that share both the past, present, and future of the city with visitors. There are so many things to do it’s difficult to name just a few.
Some of the most popular attractions include
- The artisanal market, La Ciudadela
- The house where Frida Kahlo lived and died
- Trendy bars and speakeasies
- Authentic Mexican cuisine
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.