We've seen some interesting travel patterns emerge since 9/11. Despite all the talk of how Americans are staying home, Europe is almost as popular as ever. Italy is still by far the number one destination for Americans heading abroad--I suppose largely because the U.S. dollar goes so far there. The runners up are Britain and France, followed by Spain, Germany and Ireland.
Americans are into safe travel this summer, which may explain the increasing popularity of Australia, Hawaii and Canada. Tourism to Hawaii--to Maui in particular--is soaring. Canadian tourism is helped by the amazing weakness of the Canadian dollar compared to its U.S. counterpoint. There are extraordinary deals to be had here. Judging by the sale of Frommer's guidebooks, tourism to Montreal and Quebec City is at a record high. That makes sense, because French Canada gives Americans an opportunity to visit a foreign country without wandering too far from home.
California tourism is up as well, as Americans get in their cars with their families and go in search of their own country. The #1 and #2 destinations for Americans, though, are--no surprise--Walt Disney World and Las Vegas. Entertainment is the name of the game in travel today. I guess that coming home with a tan line is just not enough any more.
