UPTOURIST

The official 10 most Googled travel spots of 2015 has just been released.

Some will surprise you, others will inspired. Some will do both.

Enjoy!

10. Tenerife

The Macaronesian island of Tenerife is the largest of the 7 Canary Islands. It holds the 3rd largest volcano on the planet, El Teide. Though the beauty of the Canaries is an obvious draw for travelers, there’s much more going on here than travelers seeking sun and sand in tropical paradise. The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife held every February is the second largest world carnival on the planet. Tourism is the only real source of income for the island, making this year’s ranking a godsend for all who live there.

9. Greece

Greece, known as the Hellenic Republic only holds around 11 million people within its Mediterranean shorelines. Why do people love to Google Greece so much? They want to go there, of course! This is one of the most ancient islands on the planet, if not in age than mysticism. If it’s true earth was once inhabited by gods, Greece was indeed there favorite home. Surrounded by baby blue waters. From the ancient Parthenon in Athens to the birthplace of Alexander the Great in modern day Macedonia, there’s so much history to enjoy while taking in the food, culture and beauty of this amazing place.

8. Amsterdam

Everyone loves the Dutch! It’s a free-living culture that understands how to live a full and happy life. The endless romantic canals and amazing French-inspired Dutch Renaissance Gothic Architecture are certainly a major draw for arty types. However, not so far below the surface lies a culture steeped in free-living which includes acceptance from authorities on the topics of public drug use and prostitution via the city’s legendary Red Light District. With that said, Amsterdam is an artist’s haven (shoutout to Armin Van Buuren!) and is considered the 4th best place to base an international business out of.

7. Italy

Italy’s located right in the heart of the Mediterranean and is also a place steeped in the early history of man. It once dominated the ancient worldOf course, there isn’t a Catholic on the planet who doesn’t know that the Pope makes his home here in Rome. The Vatican City being among one of the most visited states in all the land. It is said that Italy was the early birthplace of Capitalism. Italy is known for fine dining, amazing street food, some of the world’s best wine — and exorbitant travel and accommodation costs. Due to its rich history, Italy is home to 51 World Heritage Sites too!

6. Dubai

It’s rich ($$$) breathtaking skyline doesn’t leave much to the imagination. Dubai along with Abu Dhabi are the richest among the 7 emirate countries. A stay here means you’re likely to be living in the lap of luxury. Sand and surf aren’t far off and the hotels aren’t cheap; being rated the most expensive in the world next to Geneva’s. This city was built on oil, but now its claim to fame is providing tourists with the very best travel experience possible.

5. Cornwall

The UK isn’t really known for their beaches like their friends across the channel in France are. However, the coastline of Cornwall is an exception. It’s one of the Island’s premiere fishing vacation destinations. While the whole of the UK is steeped in a foggy haze that protects it from full sunlight, the southerly location of Cornwall makes it the warmest and sunniest of all lands in the UK. This was one of the earliest places to be mined for its rich tin content during the early ages, meaning there are more historical sites than one can see in a single visit.

4. Spain

Most of you have likely heard more about Spain than you’ll ever remember. One thing that always sticks out to me about this historical and cultural hotspot is the festivals. This country parties multiple times every month of the year, from the famous Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, to the rather odd Romería de Santa Marta de Ribarteme in Galicia; where those who’ve had a brush with death over the last year give thanks to the patron Saint Marta for their life. There’s always a party in Spain, along with tons of architecture, flowering gardens, and just an amazing culture.

3. Australia

Everyone knows why they want to go to Oz. It’s surely not because they’re trying to save money! This is one of the most expensive places to live or visit in the free world, but it’s sure worth it. The best beaches, decent beer, awesome free-loving people and some of the biggest crocs on the planet! Don’t forget the Great Barrier Reef; one of the 7 natural wonders of the world and a gorgeous marine landmark that may not be here in a hundred years if we don’t start reducing our carbon footprint soon. There’s nothing better than a big old Aussie road trip outside the confines of the city to see what this vast land has to offer. Don’t forget your sunscreen!

2. America

The land of the free and home of the brave. Home of the largest military superpower on the planet and the place where many big dreams are won and lost every day. I know that Las Vegas is a big draw on Google as is Hollywood and the first on this list; New York. There’s so much to see, do, eat and otherwise experience that it’s no wonder there were so many searches related to the states for Google searches in 2015.

1. New York

I don’t know about you, but I’ve never found New Yorkers to be particularly welcoming; contrary to Taylor Swift’s song. They’re a really rude, obnoxious sort who’ll sooner walk over or push around you than they will to lend a helping hand. Anyhow, many will disagree — several others will not. There’s always tons going on in New York and it’s definitely a mecca for a lot of things including big business, fashion, food — not to mention traffic!

This is the official list from Google folks. What don’t you see that you feel should be included?

 

Main Image Credit: Frank Kehren/Flickr