tourism quick facts

50 fascinating facts about the travel and tourism industry

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The travel and tourism industry is one of the biggest in the world with a wide variety of weird, wonderful and shocking facts. Today I’m going to give you a glimpse of some of the most fascinating facts about the travel and tourism industry, perfect for travel enthusiasts and lovers, as well as students and teachers!

Pilots and co-pilots won’t eat the same meal before a flight

The shortest commercial flight is less than two minutes long, in the past 60 seconds that you’ve been reading this article, over 2000 people have arrived in a foreign country, 56 pieces of luggage have been lost, and a quarter of a million dollars has been spent by americans abroad, the smoke trailing out of the aeroplane is actually water vapour, the boeing 747 can hold enough fuel to power a car around the planet 4 times, the high amount of pressure contained within a cabin prevents you from opening an aeroplane door mid-flight, fancy a 19 hour direct flight this was the longest flight in the world and it flew from new york to sydney, australia, flying as little as one mile in a plane can produce 53 pounds of carbon dioxide, jet lag feels worse when travelling from west to east, there are over 60,000 people in the air over the us at any given point, flying alters your sense of taste and smell, a single boeing 777 delivers double the horsepower of the titanic, during a 10 hour flight you could lose more than 2 litres of water, thomas cook were the world’s oldest tour operator, there are a number of eccentric airbnb options available, such as sleeping in a plane in france or a seashell in mexico, one of the most expensive hotels in the world is the empathy suite sky villa at the palms casino resort in vegas, las vegas has the highest number of hotel rooms in the world, phone chargers are the most common item left in hotel rooms, the tourism industry is the largest global industry by employment, china is experiencing a rapid growth in medical tourism, there are many different types of tourism that you may be unaware of, such as ‘slum’ tourism and ‘flash packing’, tourists are becoming less interested in conventional package holidays, with dynamic packages and special interest tourism on the rise, looking for new pearly-whites dental tourism has also seen a rapid growth in recent years, the proliferation of technology has resulted in a rise in smart tourism, some destinations are forced to limit tourist numbers due to overtourism, this is called controlled tourism, -> you’re half way there continue reading for even more fascinating facts about the travel and tourism industry, saudi arabia has no rivers, the maglev bullet train in japan is the fastest in the world, pluto can fit in russia, france is the most popular tourist destination, vatican is the smallest country in the world, canada has over 2 million lakes, the entirety of china operates on beijing time, france covers more time zones than any other country, feeding pigeons in san francisco is illegal, spanish is ranked as the happiest language in the world, the united states is the only developed country to not have a single paid holiday or vacation day, las vegas consumes around 60,000 pounds of shrimp, daily, dogs are banned from antarctica, every penny collected in rome’s trevi fountain is donated to a number of charities, the size of the eiffel tower changes during the summer, sticky rice was used in the construction of the great wall of china, italy is home to a free wine fountain, there is a typo on the famous liberty bell in philadelphia, pennsylvania, the biggest cruise ship in the world is the ‘wonder of the seas’, some of the most unusual attractions include the temple of rats and the island of the dolls, money spent on travel makes you happier than money spent on material goods, holidaying is good for your heart, travel increases your creativity, you’ll never see a disney bin being emptied, facts about travel and tourism- further reading, facts about the travel and tourism industry- aviation.

Fasten your seatbelts for some great facts about the travel and tourism aviation industry. Prepare for take-off!

In most cases, both the pilot and co-pilot will not eat the same meal before flying the aircraft. This is because they want to reduce the risk of both pilots contracting food poisoning from eating the same food.

Believe it or not, you can actually get on a flight that lasts less than two minutes! Located in Orkney, Scotland, this flight runs between the islands of Westray and Papa Westray. With a record time of just 47 seconds, why walk when you can take a plane?

This is one of my favourite facts about the travel and tourism industry, showcasing just how fast-paced this industry really is. I wonder how high these figures will be by the time you reach fact number 50?

Ever wondered how pilots use their aircraft to make those shapes in the sky using smoke? Well this is actually water vapour formed as a result of chemicals, hydrocarbon and oxygen, combining to produce water and some carbon dioxide.

Although this fuel doesn’t last as long in the Boeing 747 , it would however be enough to fuel your road trips for the next year or so. This aircraft has a total of 8 fuel tanks and a combined capacity of 57,164 gallons of fuel. I know I wouldn’t want to be the one paying that fuel bill.

One of the facts about the travel and tourism industry you might not know is, despite popular belief and conventional representations in the film industry, you can’t actually open an aeroplane door during a flight due to the high amount of pressure contained in the cabin. The cabin pressure is so high due to the altitude of the aircraft and thin air outside.

So yes, this does mean that most of those scenes you saw in films were technically inaccurate!

This test flight on a Qantas Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, flew an incredible 16,200 kilometres without stopping. The total flight time was 19 hours and 16 minutes, with maximum fuel, minimum cargo and a small number of passengers. This flight was research based and used to assess passenger and cabin crew health and wellness on an ‘ultra-long-haul flight’.

This is one of the more serious facts about travel and tourism. As fun and exciting as flying is, it unfortunately has some negative impacts on the environment.

Aircrafts produce a huge amount of carbon dioxide and greenhouse gas emissions which are harmful towards our planet. Not all of the facts about the travel and tourism industry are positive, and I would always encourage you to consider researching more sustainable transport options when planning your next trip.

Another one of the great facts about the travel and tourism industry would be the difference in jet lag when travelling either west or east. This is because our bodies find it easier to cope with staying up later than waking up earlier than usual. As the saying goes, “west is best, east is a beast”, you’re less likely to feel jet lagged if you travel from west to east because of the later time zones.

The US is a hugely popular tourist destination with aircrafts flying people in, out and around the US all day everyday. This means that there is, approximately, always over 60,000 people in the air over the US on any given day at any given point.

Have you ever noticed that food taste different when you’re on an aeroplane? Well, this is actually due to the high altitude and lack of humidity reducing your sense of smell, weakening your sense of taste and ability to recognise saltiness and sweetness. If you want to know how the food really tastes, you can attend the Flying Food Festival which takes place in London each year.

The Titanic was able to deliver approximately 46,000 horsepower, unlike today’s Boeing 777 which can now deliver around 110,000 horsepower.

The low humidity and reduced oxygen environment causes your body to lose more water than you usually would on the ground. Next time you’re on an aeroplane maybe opt for a bottle of water instead of a brew!

The travel organisation, Thomas Cook , was initially founded in 1841, with a train journey from Leicester to Loughborough being their first package holiday. Costing 1 shilling and 6 pence, the 22 mile train journey had a total of 500 passengers. Unfortunately, Thomas Cook collapsed in 2019, with thousands of flights cancelled and jobs lost. They do, however, still have a website which allows for customers to “package their own holiday”.

Facts about the travel and tourism industry- Accommodation

Below are a some of the most interesting facts about the travel and tourism industry, that may make you reconsider your accommodation options for your next trip!

Now more than ever, you have the option to spice up your choice of accommodation when you travel. These are just some examples of the unconventional Airbnb options now available to stay in, all over the world.

With prices starting at $100,000 per night , this suite is the most expensive in Vegas and one of the most expensive in the world. You might want to start saving for this one!

Vegas is home to approximately 161,593 hotel rooms, with this figure growing by 12,000 in 2020-2022. You’ll have plenty of hotel room options for your next trip to Vegas.

Ever had that sudden moment of realisation after checking out – you’ve left your charger! Well, if so, you aren’t alone. Followed by toiletries and clothing, phone chargers are the number one most common item left in hotel rooms. So next time you’re walking out of your hotel room for the last time, make sure to check that you haven’t forgotten your phone charger.

Facts about the travel and tourism industry- Types of tourism

One of the facts about the travel and tourism industry which you probably didn’t know is that there is over 150 different types of tourism . Lets take a deeper look at some of the most fascinating facts about the travel and tourism industry that relates to the different types of tourism.

As a whole, the tourism industry ranks as the top industry in the world by employment. In the UK, for example, approximately 1 in 10 people are working within the tourism industry. Whether you’re looking for a fast-paced job working in the sky or a quieter role on the ground, the tourism industry has a wide variety of positions to best suit you. Within these roles are also a diverse range of tourism types, read on to learn more!

Medical tourism refers to an individual(s) travelling to another country for health/ medical care. Studies have shown that China has seen a rapid increase in medical tourism, meaning more Chinese citizens are travelling abroad for some form of medical care. This is for a couple of reasons: Chinese are looking for a higher quality of healthcare; more Chinese can afford to pay the cost of travelling abroad for medical care.

Watch this video to learn more about the rise in medical tourism.

Out of all the different types of tourism out there, I can almost guarantee there are some unconventional types that you will be unaware of. I know I certainly was!

For example, slum tourism is where people choose to visit slums, and/or poverty stricken areas as part of tourism. Akin to this, flash packing is an interesting touristic concept which is essentially back packing without a budget, much like camping and glamping .

One of the newest facts about the travel and tourism industry is that, in recent years, trends and statistics have clearly shown that tourists are becoming more interested in dynamic package holidays , rather than the original, common package holiday. This is because tourists are becoming more aware of tailored packages and what the world has to offer, but also regular package holidays are no longer fulfilling everyone’s travel desires.

Special tourism , essentially tourism which is tailored to a specific interest, is also on the rise for the same reason.

Dental tourism refers to the process of travelling abroad to undergo some form of dental treatment.

Similarly to the previous facts about the travel and tourism industry, dental tourism has seen a rise in recent years, this is because people are researching to find out that dental treatment is often cheaper than in their country. For example, the cost of dental treatment in Budapest is 50-70% cheaper than in the UK, and approximately 500,000 of Budapests annual visitors are travelling to Hungary solely for some form of dental treatment.

Smart tourism refers to the innovation and proliferation of technology in a particular attraction, destination or tourists themselves. The capabilities of these technologies are increasing rapidly due to technological popularity and its constant innovations. Destinations are becoming smarter and attractions are becoming more appealing to tourists for their incredible technologies.

A great example of smart tourism would be Tui’s robotic humanoid, Pepper . Operating in Tui’s Stockholm office, Pepper is able to understand and reply in multiple languages – Pepper also offers a touchscreen featured to further enhance communication with its users. Incredible!

Controlled tourism, often as a result of overtourism , is the process of restricting tourist numbers in an area which is essentially experiencing too many visitors.

Overtourism is one of the facts about the travel and tourism industry which some people find surprising. However, without controlled tourism there can be negative implications to the environment and locals, making it particularly important for some destinations to limit their tourist numbers. Watch a video on overtourism here for more information.

Facts about the travel and tourism industry- Destinations

Below are some more facts about the travel and tourism industry, but more specifically about the incredible destinations all around the world and the facts about the travel and tourism industry that relate to them.

India’s trains transport approximately 23 million passengers a day

Believe it or not, but India ‘s trains transport around 23 million passengers every day, that’s around a third of the UK population! Many regular travellers on these trains are not willing to pay for accommodation expenses in big cities, such as Mumbai, and therefore choose to travel to and from work by train everyday.

This has got to be another one of my favourite facts about the travel and tourism industry! Saudi Arabia really has 0 rivers. Due to Saudi Arabia’s constant high temperatures and huge lack of annual rainfall, it is simply too hot for any rivers to exist due to the heat causing the rainfall to evaporate immediately.

With top speeds of 375 miles per hour, the Japanese Maglev bullet train is guaranteed to ensure you get to work on-time! Japan’s high speed railways have also had a total of 0 fatal incidents, labelling it one of the safest existing forms of travel. This bullet train has been labelled as ‘futuristic’, with some tourists visiting Japan to take a look at this super speedy train in-person.

Now this has got to be one of the most unbelievable facts about the travel and tourism industry in this article. Russia is not only the biggest country in the world, but is also big enough to fit the planet Pluto in its borders! NASA have precisely predicted that Pluto can in fact fit into Russia ‘s borders, however, despite popular belief, Pluto is in fact bigger than Russia. But hey, this has still got to be one of the most shocking facts about the travel and tourism industry.

Yearly reports have shown that France continues to be the most popular visitor destination, with visitor numbers as high as 90 million a year! The wide range of diverse visitor attractions are one of the main reasons why France is such a popular destination, with tourists visiting to see popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower.

Measuring at only 0.2 square miles, Vatican City is the smallest country in the world. Nearly 120 times smaller than Manhattan. Nevertheless, approximately 17,000 people visit Vatican City everyday. The Vatican Museums are the most popular attraction and are the main reason why a lot of tourists choose to visit such a small country.

A huge 9% of Canada’s surface are lakes, making Canada the country with the most lakes in the world. As a result of this, Canada is a popular destination to visit for tourists looking for lake holidays, both inbound and domestic. Accessible by road, a lot of Canada’s lakes are used for water sports and are a hotspot for tourists.

Despite the country covering a total of 5 time zones, the whole of China actually operates on one time zone, Beijing. This is another great fact about the travel and tourism industry that I never knew until recently. Following one standard time, UTC+8:00, their daylight saving time hasn’t actually been observed since 1991.

Relative to my previous fact, France is actually the country which covers the most time zones in the world – a total of 12 time zones!

Due to their dependencies and overseas territories, France technically cover the most time zones, despite some territories being really far from the capital, Paris. This means that France even beat the biggest countries in the world , the USA and Russia, who each cover 11 time zones.

Section 486 of the municipal police code prohibits the feeding of pigeons in San Francisco. The state made the decision to make the feeding of any bird or wild animal illegal, this is because of the negative impacts which it has on the birds. By overfeeding the birds they are more likely to become dependent on humans and will lose their natural ability to forage for food. Violators of this law can be fined hundreds of dollars and cited – you’d better keep those bread crumbs to yourself next time you visit San Francisco.

The National Academy of Sciences released a study which suggested that Spanish is actually the happiest language in the world. After the analysis of around 100,000, used most frequently in the top 10 most popular languages in the world, the researchers were able to determine that Spanish used the most positive language. The top 5 happiest languages are as follows: Spanish; Brazilian; Portuguese; English; Indonesian.

In the US, time off is considered less of a right and more of a perk, making it the only developed country without a single paid holiday or vacation day. There is also no federal law which ensures paid family leave, one of the most shocking facts about the travel and tourism industry, particularly to Europeans.

I think it’s safe to say that shrimp is a popular dish in Las Vegas . This also equates to almost half of all the shrimp consumed in the US everyday. Shrimp is served almost everywhere in, restaurants, buffets, food stalls, and even coffee shops. This fact definitely came as a surprise to me and I’m left wondering how much is spent on shrimp in Las Vegas everyday?

Ever since 1994, dogs have been officially banned from Antarctica due to concern that they could spread a disease to the seals. Sled dogs haven’t been allowed in Antarctica since 1994 as a result of fears they would spread the disease, Canine distemper. This is a serious and viral illness which would threaten seals in Antarctica, eventually leading to the banning of dogs.

Facts about the travel and tourism industry- Attractions

Almost there! Below are 7 more fascinating facts about the travel and tourism industry and its awesome attractions.

The Trevi Fountain in Rome is one of their most famous attractions and is a definite tourist hotspot. It’s tradition that visitors toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain but why? Well, there is actually three popular reasons why people do this: to ensure a return trip to Rome ; to find love in Rome; to marry in Rome. However, for your wish to work you must make sure you throw the coin correctly. You should turn your back to the fountain, take the coin in your right hand and toss it over your left shoulder. Make sure to keep an extra coin in your pocket for your next trip to Rome’s Trevi Fountain – and good luck, of course!

As a result of the high temperatures in Paris over the summer, the size of the Eiffel Tower actually increases by 15cm. The 324 metre tall structure expands due to a phenomenon called thermal expansion, the result of material going through extreme changes in temperature. Nevertheless, the Eiffel Tower returns to its original height during the winter, as a result of the cooler temperatures.

The remarkable structure that is the Great Wall of China, having stood strong for over 2,300 years, was actually built on sticky rice! It was used to strengthen the structure as a form of binding material, combined with traditional mortar. The Great Wall of China isn’t the only building which is has been essentially ‘stuck together’ with sticky rice, and some of these structures are even strong enough to withstand earthquakes.

For some of my readers, I can imagine this will be one of the facts about the travel and tourism industry which excites you the most! A small municipality of Ortona, Caldari, is the home to a popular tourist attraction – a free wine fountain! Yes, it’s true, there is genuinely a wine fountain in Italy that is completely free to use, and you can go visit. So, next time you travel to Italy, make sure to book somewhere close to Caldari di Ortona (preferably within walking distance).

Another one of the great facts about the travel and tourism industry would be the misspelling of Pennsylvania on the famous Liberty Bell. It’s true, if you take a close look at the Liberty Bell you will notice that Pennsylvania is actually missing one “n”, and is in fact spelt “Pensylvania” instead.

In 2022, the Wonder of the Seas was listed as the biggest cruise ship in the world. With a gross tonnage of 236,857, this huge cruise ship features 18 decks, can accommodate up to 6,988 guests and has a total of 2,300 crew members. Owned by Royal Caribbean International, this cruise line also owns the second and third largest cruise ships in the world – the Symphony of the Seas and the Harmony of the Seas.

Some of the most interesting facts about the travel and tourism industry involve the most unusual attractions! Now, these are just a couple of the most unusual tourist attractions that I found, however, there are many more which you could explore.

The Temple of Rats, formally named the Karni Mata Temple, is located in India and is simply a temple that is full of rats. The temple is home to approximately 25,000 black rats and some white rats, and you can visit!

Another unusual attraction is the Island of the Dolls in Mexico. Similarly, everything this attraction offers is in the name. The original home of Don Julian Santana Barrera, a lone inhabitant, this attraction hails a tragic background story.

General facts about the travel and tourism industry

Here are my final five facts about the travel and tourism industry, keep reading for a some more great facts!

Research has shown that people are made happier spending their hard earned money on travel, rather than material goods. A psychology professor from Cornell University, Dr. Thomas Gilovich, has studied the subject and determined that people are actually made happier when spending money on experiences, rather than material goods. Travel really does make you happy!

Studies have also shown that taking a vacation can actually lower your risk of a heart disease. Not only does travelling have positive impacts on your physical health, but your mental health too. Travel has also be linked to the reduction of stress and an improved outlook on life. So go ahead, book that holiday, why not?

It doesn’t stop there, travelling has also been proven to promote creativity. Newly discovered research has shown that, as a result of a more positive mindset and outlook on life, travel can increase your creativity. So next time you hit a mental block, make sure to go ahead and book a vacation – the perfect excuse!

This is one of my favourite facts about the travel and tourism industry. Disney Parks are incredibly popular attractions, so how do their bins not overflow mid-day? Well, this is actually because the bins in Disney Parks have a vacuum at the bottom which, every 20 minutes, vacuum’s all of the rubbish through a pipe system at around 60mph. Another great fact about Disney Park bins is that you are never more than 30 feet away from a bin – no littering here!

Congratulations, you’ve reached the end of my ’50 fascinating facts about the travel and tourism industry’. I hope you enjoyed and don’t forget to leave a comment below if you know any facts about travel and tourism that I should include next time.

By the way- if you enjoyed this article outlining these fascinating facts about the travel and tourism industry, why not take a look at some more? I have recommended some below-

• 50 best jobs that allow you to travel the world
• The fascinating history of tourism
• 99 Exciting jobs in travel and tourism- the ultimate travel job list!
• What is a Travel Influencer? How to become a Travel Influencer

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By Bastian Herre, Veronika Samborska and Max Roser

Tourism has massively increased in recent decades. Aviation has opened up travel from domestic to international. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of international visits had more than doubled since 2000.

Tourism can be important for both the travelers and the people in the countries they visit.

For visitors, traveling can increase their understanding of and appreciation for people in other countries and their cultures.

And in many countries, many people rely on tourism for their income. In some, it is one of the largest industries.

But tourism also has externalities: it contributes to global carbon emissions and can encroach on local environments and cultures.

On this page, you can find data and visualizations on the history and current state of tourism across the world.

Interactive Charts on Tourism

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25 surprising travel facts that’ll make you see the world in a whole new light

Apr 2, 2020 • 8 min read

Travel: we sort of know all about it, right? Wrong. Scratch beneath the surface and it turns out we know nothing of this world. Do you know how long the world’s shortest commercial flight lasts, for example? (clue: shorter than the time it takes to boil an egg.) How about which country has no rivers? Or what unconventional pizza topping is popular in Sweden ?

With international travel currently off the table, why not use this time to swat up on surprising travel trivia, offering a few precious minutes of sweet relief from the constant news cycle and providing some fun facts to fill awkward pauses during video calls with friends and family; trust us, nothing plugs a silence better than a stat about how many steps from the nearest trash bin you are in Disneyland at all times.

Without further ado, here’s 25 travel facts that are certain to shock and surprise.

Trains, planes and automobiles...

1. The world’s longest commercial flight took around 30 hours.

The so-called ‘Double Sunrise’ service by Qantas, which ran from Australia to Sri Lanka from 1943-45, often lasted over 30 hours, with passengers seeing the sunrise twice. Today the longest commercial flight is the Singapore Airlines Singapore to New York route, with an average journey time of 17 hours and 50 minutes.

2. The shortest commercial flight takes less than two minutes.

Incredibly, the shortest commercial flight, operating between the neighbouring islands of Westray and Papa Westray in Scotland ’s Orkney islands , takes around one and a half minutes. With the fastest recorded flight taking less than 50 seconds.

3. Japanese railways hand out ‘certificates’ for delays of more than five minutes.

Japanese trains, reputedly the most punctual in the world, issue passengers with a ‘delay certificate’ if a train is running more than five minutes behind schedule. The documents can be shown to bosses or teachers to explain a passenger’s lateness. Delay certificates are also issued on some trains in Germany and in Paris .

4. The most expensive airport to city taxi ride costs around £190.

Any budget traveller worth their salt attempts to avoid airport taxis at all costs, but anyone keeping an eye on their finances should certainly avoid jumping in a cab from Tokyo ’s Narita Airport. According to a study by Moneycorp (a currency exchange company), the ride is the most expensive airport-to-city transfer in the world, costing an average of £191/$235 one way.

5. India’s trains transport roughly 23 million passengers each day.

That’s the entire population of Australia . Additionally, if laid out in a single line, the tracks from India’s railway network could circle the world one and a half times.

Things you didn’t know about countries…

6. Saudi Arabia has no rivers.

The country in the Arabian peninsula has no permanent rivers. It is one of the 17 countries in the world without a single river flowing through it.

7. In Ethiopia the current year is 2013.

Ethiopia maintains its own calendar, which, due to a difference in the perceived date of the Annunciation (the proclamation of the birth of Christ), is seven to eight years behind the Gregorian calendar (which is used as standard across most of the world). In Ethiopia the new year also begins on either August 29 or August 30.

8. It is the same time at both ends of China.

Despite spanning five geographical time zones, China only has one set time, which is observed throughout the country. China Standard Time is UTC+8.

9. The UK has the world’s longest country name.

The UK ’s official title of The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland makes it the longest recognised country name in the world.

10. Alaska is both the westernmost and easternmost state in the USA.

Alaska ’s Aleutian Islands are actually located west of the 180th Meridian (the line that divides the eastern and western hemisphere), making it the only US state to be partly located in the eastern hemisphere.

Foodie facts...

11. The most ordered meal on Deliveroo, a leading takeout app, in 2019 was a Hawaiian dish of raw fish. 

Of all the restaurants served by the app, which operates in over 200 cities around the world, the most ordered meal was the Poké Signature Super Protéiné – a Hawaiian dish with raw fish as the core ingredient – from restaurant Pokawa in the city of Paris . Less exotic, a humble cheeseburger from the London branch of chain restaurant Five Guys was the second most ordered dish on the app.

12. Russia only classified beer as an alcoholic drink in 2011

Remarkably before then any drink with less than 10% alcohol was considered a ‘foodstuff’.

13. Pilots and co-pilots do not eat the same meal before a flight.

As part of standard convention, pilots and co-pilots do not eat the same food before a flight in case of food poisoning (or worse). If one of the pilots is incapacitated (unable to leave the bathroom) then the other pilot can take over.

14. Banana is a popular pizza topping in Sweden.

Often paired with curry powder believe it or not.

15. Instant noodles topped a Japanese poll of the country’s greatest inventions of the 20th century.

In the poll, conducted in the year 2000 by Fuji Research Institute, respondents placed instant noodles at the top of the list, followed by karaoke in second place. Incidentally karaoke translates from Japanese into English as ‘empty orchestra’.

Lesser-known aspects of famous landmarks...

16. Despite what people say, the Great Wall of China is not visible from space.

Even from low Earth orbit the structure requires magnification to be seen by the human eye.

17. The Eiffel Tower was initially greatly disliked by the Parisian art community upon opening.

The iconic tower was labelled as ‘monstrous’ and ‘ridiculous’ after it was unveiled to the world. It’s even claimed that contemporary writer Guy de Maupassant disliked the structure so much that he ate lunch in the tower every day because it was the only place in Paris where the landmark was not visible. 

18. The scenic Great Ocean Road, that sweeps along the coast of Victoria, Australia, is actually a war memorial.

Built by soldiers and dedicated to those who lost their lives in WWI, the road serves as the largest war memorial in the world.

19. Sudan has more ancient pyramids than Egypt.

Sources vary, but Sudan is claimed to be home to around 250 pyramid structures, that were built by the rulers of the ancient Kushite kingdoms between 2500BC to 300AD. Egypt is thought to have just over 100 pyramids. 

20. The minarets of the Taj Mahal lean outwards slightly.

This was done deliberately to ensure that if the structure collapsed the minarets would fall away from the central tomb, and not destroy it. It’s also true that a team of 20,000 artisans and craftsmen built the iconic structure, but the popular story about them all being amputated by Shah Jahan, the ruler who commissioned it, upon completion (so they’d never build anything as beautiful), is most likely a myth.

Everything else...

21. There are currently 320,000 people learning ‘Klingon’ (the fictional language featured in television show Star Trek ) on language app Duolingo.

English is the most popular language on the app, with 34 million people undertaking lessons since the beginning of 2020. 

22. On the island of Yap, a state of Micronesia, rocks are used as currency.

Each rock’s worth is based on its size and its history (where it came from). Though US dollars have now started to be used for everyday purchases on the island, rocks are still used for ceremonial transactions (during weddings, for example). Yap also uses turmeric, shells and cloth as official currency.

23. If it was as densely populated as New York City, the entire world's population could fit into the US state of Texas.

We wouldn’t have all that much room, but, with the rest of the planet uninhabited, there’d be plenty of places to go to escape the crowds.

24. You’re never more than 30 steps away from a trash can in Disneyland.

The story goes that Walt Disney used to observe visitors in the park and see how many steps they took before littering, as a result a litter bin is never more than 30 steps away in any Disney park. Another of Walt’s lesser-known Disneyland additions was the creation of a secret bar hidden inside the – then otherwise 'dry' – park, which he used to entertain personal guests and sponsors. The speakeasy-style venue, located behind a large door in the New Orleans Square section of the park, now runs as a private members club with an annual membership fee of $10,000. 

25. You don't need to wait an hour after eating before you can swim safely.

Despite what your mother always told you, there is no medical data that suggests you can’t swim on a full stomach. It can, however, feel uncomfortable, and potentially lead to a feeling of nausea, so it’s best to take a short pause after polishing off your sandwich before you go crashing into the surf.

You might also like: Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Travel Quiz  The amazing history of the London Tube Relax and unwind with these 7 Slow TV travel vids

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Fact sheet: 2022 national travel and tourism strategy, office of public affairs.

The 2022 National Travel and Tourism Strategy was released on June 6, 2022, by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo on behalf of the Tourism Policy Council (TPC). The new strategy focuses the full efforts of the federal government to promote the United States as a premier destination grounded in the breadth and diversity of our communities, and to foster a sector that drives economic growth, creates good jobs, and bolsters conservation and sustainability. Drawing on engagement and capabilities from across the federal government, the strategy aims to support broad-based economic growth in travel and tourism across the United States, its territories, and the District of Columbia.

The federal government will work to implement the strategy under the leadership of the TPC and in partnership with the private sector, aiming toward an ambitious five-year goal of increasing American jobs by attracting and welcoming 90 million international visitors, who we estimate will spend $279 billion, annually by 2027.

The new National Travel and Tourism Strategy supports growth and competitiveness for an industry that, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, generated $1.9 trillion in economic output and supported 9.5 million American jobs. Also, in 2019, nearly 80 million international travelers visited the United States and contributed nearly $240 billion to the U.S. economy, making the United States the global leader in revenue from international travel and tourism. As the top services export for the United States that year, travel and tourism generated a $53.4 billion trade surplus and supported 1 million jobs in the United States.

The strategy follows a four-point approach:

• Promoting the United States as a Travel Destination Goal : Leverage existing programs and assets to promote the United States to international visitors and broaden marketing efforts to encourage visitation to underserved communities.
• Facilitating Travel to and Within the United States Goal : Reduce barriers to trade in travel services and make it safer and more efficient for visitors to enter and travel within the United States.
• Ensuring Diverse, Inclusive, and Accessible Tourism Experiences Goal : Extend the benefits of travel and tourism by supporting the development of diverse tourism products, focusing on under-served communities and populations. Address the financial and workplace needs of travel and tourism businesses, supporting destination communities as they grow their tourism economies. Deliver world-class experiences and customer service at federal lands and waters that showcase the nation’s assets while protecting them for future generations.
• Fostering Resilient and Sustainable Travel and Tourism Goal : Reduce travel and tourism’s contributions to climate change and build a travel and tourism sector that is resilient to natural disasters, public health threats, and the impacts of climate change. Build a sustainable sector that integrates protecting natural resources, supporting the tourism economy, and ensuring equitable development.

Travel and Tourism Fast Facts

• The travel and tourism industry supported 9.5 million American jobs through $1.9 trillion of economic activity in 2019. In fact, 1 in every 20 jobs in the United States was either directly or indirectly supported by travel and tourism. These jobs can be found in industries like lodging, food services, arts, entertainment, recreation, transportation, and education.
• Travel and tourism was the top services export for the United States in 2019, generating a $53.4 billion trade surplus.
• The travel and tourism industry was one of the U.S. business sectors hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent health and travel restrictions, with travel exports decreasing nearly 65% from 2019 to 2020. 
• The decline in travel and tourism contributed heavily to unemployment; leisure and hospitality lost 8.2 million jobs between February and April 2020 alone, accounting for 37% of the decline in overall nonfarm employment during that time. 
• By 2021, the rollout of vaccines and lifting of international and domestic restrictions allowed travel and tourism to begin its recovery. International arrivals to the United States grew to 22.1 million in 2021, up from 19.2 million in 2020. Spending by international visitors also grew, reaching $81.0 billion, or 34 percent of 2019’s total.

More about the Tourism Policy Council and the 2022 National Travel and Tourism Strategy

Created by Congress and chaired by Secretary Raimondo, the Tourism Policy Council (TPC) is the interagency council charged with coordinating national policies and programs relating to travel and tourism. At the direction of Secretary Raimondo, the TPC created a new five-year strategy to focus U.S. government efforts in support of the travel and tourism sector which has been deeply and disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Read the full strategy here

UN Tourism | Bringing the world closer

Tourism – an economic and social phenomenon, share this content.

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Why Tourism?

Over the decades, tourism has experienced continued growth and deepening ‎diversification to become one of the fastest growing economic sectors in the world. ‎Modern tourism is closely linked to development and encompasses a growing number ‎of new destinations. These dynamics have turned tourism into a key driver for socio-‎economic progress.‎

Today, the business volume of tourism equals or even surpasses that of oil exports, ‎food products or automobiles. Tourism has become one of the major players in ‎international commerce, and represents at the same time one of the main income ‎sources for many developing countries. This growth goes hand in hand with an ‎increasing diversification and competition among destinations.‎

International tourist arrivals (overnight visitors) grew 4% in January-March 2019 compared to the same period last year, below the 6% average growth of the past two years.

This global spread of tourism in industrialised and developed states has produced ‎economic and employment benefits in many related sectors - from construction to ‎agriculture or telecommunications.‎

The contribution of tourism to economic well-being depends on the quality and the ‎revenues of the tourism offer. UN Tourism assists destinations in their sustainable ‎positioning in ever more complex national and international markets. As the UN agency ‎dedicated to tourism, UN Tourism points out that particularly developing countries stand to ‎benefit from sustainable tourism and acts to help make this a reality.‎

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50 Travel Fun Facts Every Travel Enthusiast Should Know

Are you an avid traveler? Do you have a passion for exploring new destinations and uncovering the hidden secrets of the world? If so, then this post is perfect for you! We’re about to share some incredible fun facts that will both surprise and inspire any travel enthusiast. From natural phenomena to historic sites, we’ll take a look at surprises from all over the globe – things that even those with years of travel experience may not know about. Take your knowledge up a notch with 50 fascinating Fun Facts every Travel Enthusiast should know!

The Great Barrier Reef in Australia

The Great Barrier Reef in Australia is an awe-inspiring wonder of our natural world. This magnificent coral reef system is the largest of its kind on Earth, spanning over 1400 miles along the northeast coast of Australia. The Great Barrier Reef is home to a vast array of marine life, making it the perfect spot for snorkeling, diving, and exploring all the incredible underwater treasures. Did you know that the Great Barrier Reef even has its airport on Hamilton Island? Imagine flying in and immediately being transported to a world filled with shimmering turquoise waters and rainbow-hued creatures. As a fun fact, the Great Barrier Reef is so massive it can be seen from outer space – how incredible is that? If you're looking for an unforgettable travel destination, the Great Barrier Reef should be at the top of your list.

Origin of "jet lag" term

Did you know that the term "jet lag" was only invented in 1966? Horace Sutton, a journalist from the Los Angeles Times, originally coined the phrase to describe the overwhelming feelings of fatigue and disorientation that come with rapidly traveling across multiple time zones. While it can be a highly disorienting experience, the fun fact behind jet lag is that it's only a temporary feeling, and it's a small price to pay for the incredible experience of discovering new cultures and places across the world. With this knowledge in mind, let's take on those jet-lagged feelings with excitement and anticipation for all the adventures that await us.

The world's busiest airport

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is not just any airport. It's the king of airports, the busy bee buzzing with energy and life. As the world's busiest airport by passenger traffic, it carries millions of travelers each year to destinations across the globe. Whether you're an Atlanta local, or just passing through, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a sight to behold. Here's a fun travel fact for you: did you know that in 2019, the airport served a staggering 110.5 million passengers? That's enough to make your head spin - and your heart race with wanderlust. As you stroll through the bustling terminal, take a moment to appreciate the excitement of travel and the possibilities it holds. The world is your oyster - and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the perfect launching point for your next adventure.

The world's shortest commercial flight

Have you ever heard of the shortest commercial flight in the world? It's a travel fun fact that might just blow your mind! The flight operates between Westray and Papa Westray, two beautiful and remote islands in Scotland's Orkney archipelago. With just a 1.7-mile air distance separating them, the flight takes an astonishingly short amount of time to complete - a mere 47 seconds , to be exact! But don't let the brevity of this flight fool you - it's a magnificent experience from start to finish, offering stunning views of the islands and their surrounding waters. Next time you're in Scotland, don't miss the chance to take this inspiring flight!

The longest non-stop commercial flight

If you're a travel enthusiast looking for an exhilarating experience, then you'll be thrilled to learn about the longest non-stop commercial flight currently operated by Singapore Airlines between Singapore and Newark, USA. Covering a distance of 15,344 km, this flight takes a whopping 18 hours and 45 minutes to complete, making it a true marvel of modern aviation. As you soar across the shores of the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, you'll get to witness breathtaking views and marvel at the sheer scale of our planet. This travel fun fact is certainly not for the faint-hearted, but for those seeking the ultimate adventure, it's an experience of a lifetime. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey.

The first scheduled passenger airline service

Travel enthusiasts, did you know that the first scheduled passenger airline service took place on January 1, 1914? That's right, it was a historic day for aviation when the world's first-ever daily scheduled flight took off from St. Petersburg to Tampa, Florida, USA. The brief 23 minutes journey covering a distance of 21 miles (34 kilometers) was a milestone in the history of transportation, marking a new era of convenience and accessibility. This fun fact of aviation history inspires us to appreciate the progress humans have made over the years in our quest for exploration and innovation.

The highest commercially navigable lake

Lake Titicaca is a place that makes you feel like you're on top of the world - quite literally. highest commercially navigable lake in the world, it's a destination that's sure to inspire. Travel to the Lake and you'll discover a natural wonder that's rich in history, culture, and fun facts that will leave an indelible impression on you. Picture yourself floating on a crystal clear lake, surrounded by stunning views of the Andes mountains, while learning about the ancient Inca civilization that once flourished on its shores. It's an experience that's truly unforgettable and one that's worth adding to your travel bucket list. So pack your bags and make your way to Lake Titicaca - the journey of a lifetime awaits!

The origin "all-inclusive resort" concept

The concept of all-inclusive resorts may seem like a modern-day invention designed to cater to the jet-setting needs of travelers, but did you know that the idea originated in the Caribbean over 70 years ago? It's true! The first all-inclusive resort opened its doors in 1950 in Jamaica, marking a new era of vacationing that has since become synonymous with fun, relaxation, and indulgence. Since then, all-inclusive resorts have grown in popularity, providing travelers with an easy way to escape the stresses of daily life and immerse themselves in exotic destinations without worrying about the small details. So next time you're looking for a travel fun fact to impress your friends and colleagues, remember that the Caribbean is the birthplace of all-inclusive resorts – a little piece of history that has changed the way we travel forever!

The origin of the "luggage carousel"

Imagine a world without luggage carousels! Thanks to engineer John Michael Lyons, we don't have to. In 1958, he invented the very first luggage carousel, a feat that has revolutionized the way we travel. This fun fact is not only a testament to Lyons' ingenuity and foresight but also a reminder of the power of invention. Just think of all the memories, experiences, and adventures each suitcase on that carousel represents. How inspiring to think that one person's idea could have such a profound impact on the way we explore the world. So next time you're waiting for your luggage, take a moment to marvel at the genius of the luggage carousel, and all the possibilities it allows.

The world's largest cruise ship

Embarking on a journey is always an exciting experience, but setting sail on the world's largest cruise ship is a whole new level of adventure. Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas has made waves in the cruise industry boasting an astounding capacity of over 6,600 passengers and a crew of around 2,200. This floating city-like vessel has everything from an ice skating rink to a zip line, and even a central park complete with real trees! If you're looking for a travel fun fact to impress your friends with, look no further than the Symphony of the Seas. Set sail on the ultimate cruise ship, and immerse yourself in luxury and endless entertainment.

The world's first hotel made entirely of ice and snow

The Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi , Sweden, is more than just a place to rest your head for the night – it's an architectural masterpiece. This unique hotel is the world's first made entirely of ice and snow, offering visitors an adventurous and unforgettable overnight experience. Each year, local builders use ice from the nearby Torne River to create this stunning work of art, which is open for guests from December to April. This travel fun fact is sure to inspire any wanderlust-prone individual to add Jukkasjärvi to their must-visit list. Imagine waking up in your cozy ice room, cuddled in layers of blankets, and gazing at the magnificent ice sculptures surrounding you. A trip to the Icehotel makes for a one-of-a-kind travel experience that will stay with you and inspire many great adventures to come.

The world's largest travel guidebook 

In the early 1970s, a young couple, Tony and Maureen Wheeler, embarked on a journey that would change the world of travel forever. They set off on an overland trip from London to Australia, and along the way, they documented their experiences, which later became the foundation for their travel guidebook publishing company, Lonely Planet . Since its inception in 1972, Lonely Planet has become the world's largest travel guidebook publisher, inspiring travelers to explore new destinations with its vast range of books and online resources. With over 500 titles in their collection, their remarkable success story is a true travel fun fact that reminds us how a simple passion for adventure and a willingness to share it can create an empire.

First travel insurance

Did you know that the concept of travel insurance has been around for centuries? It dates back to ancient China, where merchants would pay for protection against loss or theft during their journeys. This fascinating travel fun fact highlights the importance of having safeguarding measures in place when embarking on any adventure. It's inspiring to think that even in the past, people recognized the value of protecting themselves and their assets during travel. Today, we continue to benefit from the same principles as we enjoy exploring new horizons with peace of mind. Like the old Chinese merchants, we may not always know what lies ahead, but we can take comfort in knowing that we have the protection we need.

The first successful around-the-world flight 

The year 1933 marked a defining moment in aviation history when Wiley Post, the maverick American aviator, accomplished the impossible – the first around-the-world flight. From the small makeshift airstrip in New York to the distant shores of Berlin, Moscow, and Tokyo, Post journeyed an incredible 15,596 miles in just eight days, 15 hours, and 51 minutes, cementing his place in history as one of the greatest aviation pioneers of all time. This travel fun fact is nothing short of inspiring. It's a testament to the grit, determination, and courage of one man who dared to dream of a world where distance and time were mere concepts. Today, we honor Post and his legacy by pushing ourselves to go above and beyond the limits and aspirations of our predecessors.

The first person to travel around the world in less than 80 days

Imagine traveling around the world in less than 80 days, it sounds like the plot of a thrilling novel, but it was an incredible feat accomplished by American journalist Nellie Bly in 1889. The best-selling novel, "Around the World in Eighty Days," may have been fictional, but Bly's journey was real. The inspiring travel fun fact is that she managed to complete the journey in just 72 days, beating the fictional record set by Jules Verne's protagonist, Phileas Fogg. It was an incredible achievement, especially for a woman in the late 19th century, and her accomplishments paved the way for future female adventurers. Nellie Bly's record-breaking journey remains a historical and inspiring event to many today.

The origin of backpacking as a travel-style concept

The 1960s and 1970s were a revolutionary time in the world of travel. Young people started to explore the world with nothing but a backpack on their shoulders and a sense of adventure in their hearts. This travel style, known as backpacking, quickly gained popularity as more and more people sought to break away from the ordinary and explore the world around them. What's fascinating is that budget limitations didn't deter these travelers from seeking amazing experiences and making unforgettable memories. It's a true testament to the power of wanderlust and the incredible things that can be achieved when you set your mind to it. The concept of backpacking continues to inspire and attract adventurers to this day, proving that travel is so much more than just a vacation - it's a way of life.

The Origin of the Couchsurfing Concept

Are you ready for a fun travel fact that will inspire you to see the world in a new light? Enter Couchsurfing, the amazing hospitality exchange community that connects travelers with locals around the globe. Founded in 2004, Couchsurfing has grown into a global platform that challenges traditional travel norms by offering the opportunity for travelers to stay with friendly locals for free. Through Couchsurfing, travelers can immerse themselves in local cultures and get a unique insider's perspective on their destination. But Couchsurfing is so much more than just a place to stay - it's a community of passionate and open-minded individuals who share a love for adventure and cultural exchange. So pack your bags and join the Couchsurfing community to experience the world in a whole new way!

The Origin of the Gap Years Concept

Imagine the world as your classroom - where learning doesn't just happen in classrooms but expands to adventures that offer diverse experiences and cultures to explore. Enter gap years: a concept that originated in the United Kingdom in the 1960s that's taking the world by storm. Instead of rushing through their studies, students take a break to travel or pursue other experiences that ignite their passions and broaden their horizons. Fun fact - gap years have proven to benefit both personal development and career-building since it allows individuals to gain new, unique perspectives that give them a competitive edge in the job market. It's inspiring to think about the infinite possibilities that await anyone who decides to embark on a gap year adventure. So, are you ready to take the leap and experience all that the world has to offer?

The world's first Postcards

Traveling is a beautiful experience, and sending postcards is used to add to the excitement. Did you know that the concept of postcards originated in Austria in the 1860s? It's an inspiring fun fact to learn that Austria allowed postcards to be sent with a message on one side and an address on the other, becoming the very first country in the world to do so. Postcards became increasingly popular amongst travelers as a way to stay connected with loved ones back home while enjoying their adventures. Austria paved the way for one of the most treasured traditions in the world of travel. Nowadays, postcards may seem a bit outdated, but they continue to inspire and add to the beauty of traveling.

The world's oldest-known travel agency

Did you know that the world's oldest known travel agency is Cox & Kings , established in 1758 in India? What started as a small business arranging transportation for British army officers has now become a global player in the travel industry. It's inspiring to think about how this company has been able to stay relevant for over two centuries, adapting to the changing times and catering to the needs of travelers from all over the world. This travel fun fact reminds us that the desire to explore new places and experience new cultures is something that has been around for centuries and will continue to inspire generations to come.

The origin of the "hotel" concept

Have you ever wondered where the word "hotel" comes from? It turns out that the word is derived from the French word "hôtel," which referred to a townhouse or mansion. It wasn't until later that the meaning of the word shifted to refer to an establishment that provides accommodation. Knowing the origins of this common word is a fun fact to keep in mind as you travel and stay in hotels around the world. It's a reminder of how language can evolve and take on new meanings over time. So next time you're staying in a hotel, take a moment to reflect on the history behind the world and appreciate the journey it has taken to get to where it is today.

The world's first hotel

Nestled in the mountains of Japan lies a hidden gem that has been standing for over a thousand years. The Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan is the world's oldest hotel, dating back to the year 705 AD! Imagine the stories and history that this hotel has witnessed over the centuries. As a traveler, staying at this hotel would be an unforgettable experience, and a fun fact to share with friends and family. It's inspiring to think that a place like this continues to stand strong, welcoming new guests for generations. The Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan is a true testament to the resilience and beauty of Japan's ancient culture.

The first commercial hot air balloon flight

In 1783, a group of spectators in France looked up to witness history being made. The first commercial hot air balloon flight had just taken place, propelling humans into the sky in a way they had never experienced before. The balloon was called "Aerostat Réveillon" and flew for about 5.5 miles (9 kilometers). This monumental achievement was not only a major technological advancement, but it opened up new travel opportunities. Suddenly, people could reach heights and destinations that were once unreachable. This fun fact about the first commercial hot air balloon flight reminds us that innovation and exploration have always been a part of human nature and that we should never stop pushing the boundaries of what we know and what we can achieve.

The first recorded use of the term "sightseeing"

It's amazing to consider that the practice of sightseeing, something that we take for granted today, has been around for centuries. The first recorded use of the term "sightseeing" can be traced back to 1768 in the journal of James Boswell . This remarkable travel fun fact underscores just how long humanity has been fascinated with exploring new places and seeing all that the world has to offer. As we embark on our adventures today, let's take a moment to appreciate the pioneers like Boswell who paved the way for us to experience the excitement and wonder of travel.

The first-ever recorded travel guide

Did you know that the first-ever recorded travel guide was written by a Greek geographer named Pausanias in the 2nd century CE? His work described the most fascinating landmarks and destinations in ancient Greece, helping travelers find their way and experience the beauty of this historic land. It's amazing to consider how far we've come since those ancient times, with travel guides now available for every corner of the globe. And yet, Pausanias' work serves as a testament to the timeless appeal of exploring new places and discovering the wonders that await. Let us be inspired by Pausanias' legacy and continue to seek out adventure, wherever it may take us.

The world's fastest train

The Shanghai Maglev Train is truly the epitome of modern transportation engineering. This maglev train operates in Shanghai, China, and is known to be the fastest train in the world, surpassing even the bullet trains in Japan. The Shanghai Maglev Train operates at incredible speeds of up to 430 km/h and only takes 8 minutes to travel the 30 km distance between Shanghai's Pudong International Airport and the city's financial district. With its sleek, futuristic design and state-of-the-art technology, the Shanghai Maglev Train provides a memorable experience for passengers who are keen on speed and advanced engineering. It's a fun fact to know that you can travel at such an impressive speed using one mode of transportation, inspiring us to think that the future of travel is indeed exciting!

The world's largest airport

The King Fahd International Airport in Dammam is a true testament to the grandeur and vision of the Saudi Arabian government. As the world's largest airport, it spans over 780 square kilometers and can accommodate up to 80 million passengers annually. That's a staggering figure! But, did you know that it also boasts one of the largest dome structures in the world, covering an area of 32,000 square meters? As you travel through the airport, you can't help but feel inspired by the sheer size of the space and the endless opportunities for exploration and adventure that await. It truly is a magnificent feat of engineering and design, and a fun fact to share with fellow travelers.

The first known recorded travel diary

Did you know that the first known recorded travel diary was written by Xu Xiake , a Chinese travel writer, in the 17th century? Xu Xiake's travel diary details his extensive travels throughout China and offers an inspiring glimpse into the beauty and wonder of the country he loved. His writings are a testament to the joy and adventure that can be found in travel and serve as a reminder that even in times of uncertainty and difficulty, the world is full of amazing places waiting to be explored. So the next time you embark upon a journey, remember Xu Xiake's legacy and let his travel fun fact inspire you to discover all that the world has to offer.

The world's largest salt flat

Pack your bags, traveler, because one of the most awe-inspiring sights on Earth awaits you. Welcome to the Salar de Uyuni , the world's largest salt flat located in Bolivia. This natural wonder spans over 4,000 square miles and is comprised of over 10 billion tons of salt. It's impossible not to feel small in front of the vastness of this radiant salt flat. Besides its sheer size, the Salar de Uyuni holds another fun fact: it's so flat that NASA uses it to calibrate satellites. Imagine being able to stand on a piece of ground so level and smooth, you're used to help guide spacecraft through the cosmos! Take in this natural marvel with your own eyes and let the Salar de Uyuni take your breath away.

The ancient city of Petra in Jordan and the rock-cut architecture

Exploring Petra, the ancient city that served as a crucial trading hub, is an experience that will leave you awestruck. The elaborate rock-cut architecture, including the famous Treasury, is a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the people who lived there. Fun fact: Petra was established as early as 312 BCE and is one of the few cities in the world where cars are not allowed, which means you get to explore this incredible architectural wonder on foot. Walking through the narrow canyon and coming face to face with the stunning sandstone structures is an experience you won't soon forget. A visit to Petra is a must for any travel bucket list.

The lowest point on Earth's surface

Imagine swimming in a body of water so dense that you can't even sink. That is the unique experience that awaits you at the Dead Sea in Jordan and Israel, the lowest point on Earth's surface. This natural wonder boasts a high concentration of salt and minerals, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking some R&R. Did you know that people have been visiting the Dead Sea for thousands of years to soak in its healing waters? Whether you're there for a luxurious spa day or just want to float on the surface of the water, the Dead Sea is a travel fun fact that will leave you feeling inspired by all the wonders the world has to offer.

The world's lowest country

Did you know that the Maldives holds the title of being the world's lowest country in terms of average ground level? The stunning archipelago, composed of 26 atolls, is situated in the Indian Ocean and boasts breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. With its highest point only 7.8 feet (2.4 meters) above sea level, it's no wonder why this travel fun fact is so intriguing. Despite this remarkable characteristic, the Maldives remains an inviting destination for travelers from all over the world. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this unique paradise!

The world's largest hotel

The First World Hotel in Malaysia is not just any ordinary hotel, as it is the world's largest hotel, boasting over 7,351 rooms! This is more than just a travel fun fact, as the hotel's impressive size and scale are truly inspiring. It almost feels like a mini city within itself and staying here is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Imagine walking through the hotel lobby, surrounded by an endless sea of rooms and a bustling crowd of fellow travelers, all eager to explore the wonders of Malaysia. If that doesn't make you want to pack your bags and book a ticket, I don't know what will!

The city with the most Michelin-starred restaurants

If you're a food lover, then there's no better city to visit than Tokyo. This vibrant metropolis is home to over 230 Michelin-starred restaurants, making it the city with the most Michelin-starred establishments in the world . From sushi to ramen, tempura to teppanyaki, Tokyo has it all. Each restaurant offers its unique take on the cuisine, from the traditional to the cutting edge. So, if you want to satiate your culinary curiosity, hop on a flight to Tokyo, and explore this amazing city's gastronomic delights. After all, experiencing the world's most Michelin-starred restaurants is one of the best fun facts to share with your friends.

The world's largest pilgrimage

For Muslims traveling to Mecca , it is the ultimate spiritual journey. Mecca is the world's largest pilgrimage site, drawing millions of Muslims from all corners of the globe for the Hajj pilgrimage. As visitors approach the city, they're enveloped in the enthusiasm and devotion of fellow Muslims. The city is an incredible display of devotion, piety, and unity, creating an atmosphere that is truly awe-inspiring. In addition to its spiritual significance, Mecca is also a fascinating travel fun fact to share with others. Its incredible size and the sheer number of visitors during the Hajj are a testament to the strength of faith that exists within the Muslim community. The Hajj pilgrimage is a life-changing experience for all who participate, and it's no wonder that so many Muslims from around the world make the journey to Mecca each year.

The world's tallest waterfall

Angel Falls stands tall and mighty, being the world’s highest uninterrupted waterfall. Located in Venezuela, the falls have captivated the hearts of travelers from all over the world, leaving them in awe of its stunning natural beauty. At 979 meters, the falls are higher than the Eiffel Tower and almost three times the size of Niagara Falls. But that's not just it! A fun fact about these falls is that Angel Falls was named after an American aviator, Jimmy Angel, who discovered the falls while flying over the area in the 1930s. This incredible waterfall is a must-see for any travel bucket list, inspiring anyone who lays eyes on its grandeur. 

The country with the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Italy is a country that boasts of unparalleled cultural and artistic heritage. What’s even more impressive is that Italy is home to the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world, with over fifty-nine sites already inscribed on the list. From the majestic Colosseum and the iconic Piazza del Duomo in Florence to the remarkably preserved ruins of Pompeii and the beautiful city of Venice that's built on water, Italy has something for everyone. Exploring these sites is not only informative but also awe-inspiring, and it's no wonder why Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The travel fun fact that Italy has the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites is just one of the many reasons to visit this vibrant country and immerse oneself in its rich history and culture.

The city with the most international visitors per year

Bangkok is a bustling city that continuously draws in travelers from all over the world. It holds the title of being the city with the highest number of international visitors per year! This travel fun fact showcases the immense appeal that Bangkok has, from its vibrant street markets and mouth-watering food scene to its jaw-dropping temples and lively nightlife. It's no wonder that people from all walks of life yearn to explore this unique city. Whether you're a foodie, a shopaholic, a history buff, or simply looking for an adventure, Bangkok has something to offer for everyone. So pack your bags and set off to experience the wonders of this mesmerizing city for yourself!

The largest religious monument in the world

As you embark on your journey to the Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia, you'll be visiting the largest religious monument in the world. The jaw-dropping scale and intricate detail of the temple complex is inspiring, and a testament to the skills of the Khmer people who built it nearly a thousand years ago. It's hard not to feel awe-inspired by the sheer size of Angkor Wat, which covers over 160 hectares of land. As you explore the intricate carvings and ancient architecture of this stunning complex, you'll be taken on a journey through history and spirituality. Truly, a visit to Angkor Wat is a must-have travel experience for any lover of adventure and culture. And, of course, it's always fun to have a fascinating fact to share with your friends and family!

The Statue of Liberty in New York City was a gift from France

For over a century, the Statue of Liberty has been greeting visitors to New York City's harbor as a symbol of freedom and democracy. Gifted to the United States by France in 1886, the statue stands tall at 305 feet, weighing 225 tons. This beloved icon is not only a popular tourist destination but also a reminder of the ideals that our country was built upon. It's fascinating to think that the statue's creator, Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, initially intended to have it placed at the entrance of the Suez Canal. However, after being turned down by the Egyptian government, he presented the idea to the United States and the rest is history. For a travel fun fact, did you know that the seven spikes on the crown of the statue represent the seven continents and seven seas of the world? A visit to the Statue of Liberty is not only an awe-inspiring experience but also a reminder of the ongoing fight for freedom and democracy for all.

The longest suspension bridge in the world

If you're a traveler looking for an impressive sight to add to your bucket list, the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge in Japan is a marvel to behold. This suspension bridge stretches an incredible 6,532 feet (1,991 meters), making it the longest in the world. But it's not just its size that's impressive - the bridge is also a testament to Japanese engineering and ingenuity. Its construction required incredibly precise design and execution, and the final product is a breathtaking feat of human achievement. Whether you're an engineer or not, visiting the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge is a fun fact to share with friends and family, and a reminder of what can be accomplished when humans put their minds to something truly incredible.

Home of the "Big Five" game animals

The African savanna is the ultimate destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Its vast expanse serves as a home to some of the most iconic creatures on the planet, the "Big Five" game animals. Majestic lions roam freely, fiercely protective of their territories and pride. Massive elephants gracefully strut through the lands, trumpeting in triumph. Rhinoceroses dominate the terrain with their sheer size and strength, while elusive leopards silently stalk their prey. Buffalos, on the other hand, move in herds, roaming together and providing a stunning sight to behold. Travelers who dream of being part of this incredible ecosystem need to head over to the African savanna, where these magnificent creatures reign supreme. It's a fun fact that one can never get enough of – the African savanna is truly one of the most breathtaking places in the world.

The birthplace of jazz

New Orleans, the city of soulful jazz, is a place that ignites the senses and transports the soul to a realm of pure musical magic. Known as the birthplace of jazz, this vibrant city boasts a rich and diverse musical heritage that is celebrated year-round. From street musicians to world-famous jazz clubs, music can be heard echoing through the streets day and night. Every spring, the Jazz and Heritage Festival takes center stage and draws music lovers from across the globe to soak up the infectious energy of this city. A travel fun fact to keep in mind - the famous jazz funeral originated in New Orleans, where they celebrate life and honor their loved ones with a musical procession through the streets. It's no wonder New Orleans has earned the title of "the city that care forgot" - once you're there, the joy-filled energy of the music scene will stay with you long after you leave.

The busiest pedestrian crossing in the world

Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, is home to the world-famous Shibuya Crossing - known to be the busiest pedestrian crossing on the planet. With over 2,500 people crossing this intersection simultaneously during peak rush hours, it's a sight to behold. But what's even more impressive is the energy and vibrancy that Tokyo exudes. From its delicious food to its innovative technology and unique fashion, the city is a hub of cultural and technological excellence. Tokyo is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience a bustling and vibrant metropolis. It's more than just a fun fact; it's an inspiring testament to the city's spirit and its people.

The world's largest natural reserve

Imagine standing in the middle of the largest natural reserve in the world, surrounded by pristine glaciers, towering peaks, and a vast expanse of untouched wilderness. Northeast Greenland National Park is a wonderland waiting to be explored, and it boasts some of the most awe-inspiring sights on the planet. Covering an area of over 970,000 square kilometers, this vast reserve is not only home to an incredible variety of species, but it's also a significant travel destination. Did you know that the park is larger than all of California and three times the size of Texas combined? There's no doubt that visitors to this incredible landscape will be awestruck by its sheer size, beauty, and majesty. So pack your bags and prepare to embark on an adventure that you'll never forget - Northeast Greenland National Park is calling!

Greenland is an awe-inspiring destination that sits at the top of the world. It is the largest island in the world and is known for its pristine nature, rugged coastline, and stunning glaciers. Located in the northernmost part of the Atlantic Ocean, it is also one of the least populated places on Earth. Traveling to Greenland is an adventure like no other, starting from the moment you set foot on this majestic island. So pack your bags and get ready to explore one of the most breathtaking places on the planet - Greenland!

Longest world's longest town name

As you embark on your journey through Wales, make sure to take a pit stop in a town that holds the title of the world's longest town name! Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch may be a mouthful to pronounce, but the fun facts are worth the effort! This picturesque town with a population of only 3,000 boasts the Guinness World Record for having the longest place name in the world. Its name translates to "Saint Mary's Church in the hollow of the white hazel near a rapid whirlpool and the Church of St. Tysilio of the red cave". The town has become a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, charming picturesque houses, and fascinating history. So indulge in this travel fun fact and add Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch to your bucket list!

World’s shortest geographical place name

Å is not only the shortest geographical place name in the world, but also a unique travel destination that is sure to leave you inspired. Located in the Lofoten Islands of Norway, this small fishing village may be compact in name, but it offers big experiences for visitors seeking adventure. Imagine exploring rugged mountain landscapes while taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding sea. Or, diving into the deep blue waters for an up-close encounter with the Norwegian marine life. Whether you're an adventure-seeker or simply looking for a fun fact to share with friends, Å is a destination that's worth including on your travel itinerary.

Paris syndrome

Paris, known to many as the City of Love, may surprise you with its lesser-known syndrome that can affect certain travelers. Paris Syndrome is a condition where tourists become overwhelmed by the difference between their high expectations of the city and the reality they experience. However, don't let this deter you from experiencing the magic of one of the world's most iconic cities. With so much to see and do, Paris offers something for everyone, from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum. Plus, did you know that the city is home to the world's first-ever public park, the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont? With such a rich history and beauty, Paris is still very much worth a visit. So go ahead and immerse yourself in all the stunning sights and sounds without worrying about Paris Syndrome, as long as you come prepared to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

24/7 free wine fountain

If you are a wine lover, you might want to pack your bags and head straight to Italy. Located in the small town of Ortona in the Abruzzo region , there is a marvelous 24/7 free wine fountain that will leave you in awe. Yes, you heard it right - a free wine fountain! This is not just any ordinary fountain but it is a wonderful work of art that dispenses red wine for all visitors, day and night. The fountain has become a must-visit for travelers from all over the world, making it a true travel fun fact. So, what are you waiting for? Add this to your bucket list, and indulge yourself in a heavenly wine experience! 

The most linguistically diverse country

Papua New Guinea isn't just another beautiful travel destination - it's home to the world's most diverse linguistic landscape. With over 800 languages spoken across its unique terrain, Papua New Guinea is the ultimate cultural immersive experience. Exploring the country means diving into a world of vibrant new sounds and words, hearing languages heard nowhere else on the planet. From the highlands to the coast, the dialects will change fluidly, each with its own history and local traditions. It's a thrilling opportunity to gain insight into the intricacies and beauty of human communication - all while having the trip of a lifetime.

Drawing from all the amazing places and adventures present around the world, these 50 fun facts about travel bring to light the exciting cultures that take part in traveling. These cool and interesting facts encourage those with a sense of exploration in their soul to get out there and discover everything that our planet has to offer. Variety abounds, and traveling is one of the best ways to deepen your knowledge and understanding of our global community. From peculiar practices to incredible new sights, every trip is a journey full of excitement and discovery. If you're looking for some guidance on where to go next, why not try Sweden? After exploring this unique destination through these fascinating travel facts, get ready for an experience like no other with one of our decks of cards filled with 50 fun ideas ! Don't wait any longer - make 2020 the year you grow your wanderlust!

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Basic Facts About Vietnam - Quick Facts, Culture and Tourism

Country profile, location and climate, quick facts, exploring vietnam, way of life.

Full name: Socialist Republic of Vietnam

Common name: Vietnam

Main cities: Hanoi (capital); Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon, largest city and the national economic hub); Haipong (major port in northern Vietnam, the third largest city)

National day: September 2nd

National flag: The flag of Vietnam is a red flag with a gold star. Red symbolizes the sacrifice made for independence. The star represents unity, with its five points representing workers, peasants, soldiers, intellectuals and young people, all uniting to build socialism.

Located in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is bordered by China, Laos, and Cambodia. Its southern coast faces the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest, and the South China Sea to the southeast. Vietnam's location and topography result in a tropical monsoon climate.

The country's climate, however, still varies, with several distinct zones. The north has quite a severe winter, with pleasant spring, and hot, rainy summer and autumn. In the highlands, the climate is extreme, with very hot summers and occasional snow in winter.

In central Vietnam, summers are typically hot and sunny. Lăng Cô in the north is hotter in summer and cooler in winter, while Da Nang and southern cities have milder conditions. Travelers are advised to avoid visiting between September and February, when the sea level rises significantly, and there are rains and frequent strong winds.

The southern climate is hot and sunny, with frequent rains in June and July, and a cool, dry season from December to February.

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Vietnam is ruled by one political party, with the President as Head of State, and the Prime Minister as Head of Government. The Prime Minister is selected through the legislature of the National Assembly. In practice, the President's position is only ceremonial, with less authority, and the Prime Minister has most governmental influence.

Although economic reconstruction of the reunited Vietnam has proven difficult, Vietnam's economy is much stronger than the economies of other neighboring developing countries, such as Cambodia and Laos. Like most communist countries, Vietnam maintains careful restrictions on foreign investment and market opportunities.

Since 2000, Vietnam has experienced the highest economic growth rate in the world. PricewaterhouseCoopers has forecast Vietnam to be the one of the fastest-growing emerging economies in the world by 2025, with a potential growth rate of almost 10% per year.

Demographics

The population of Vietnam is over 90 million, with notable growth from 1979 onwards. The majority belong to the Kinh (also known as the Viet) ethnic group. As the predominant social and ethnic group, the Kinh have a major influence on Vietnam's politics and economy.

Vietnam is also home to 54 ethnic minority groups, including the Hmong, Dao, Tay, Thai, and Nùng. Prior to the Vietnam War in the 1950s, the population of the Central Highlands was almost exclusively Degar (including over 40 tribal groups). The lowlands are inhabited by the Hoa (ethnic Chinese) and Khmer Krom groups.

Most people in Vietnam speak Vietnamese, with distinct languages spoken by minority groups. A significant number of educated Vietnamese also speak French as a second language.

Since the 1990s, Vietnam has become a major tourist destination, via significant state and private investment. Popular tourist destinations include the former imperial capital of Hué, and the World Heritage Sites of Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, Hội An and Mỹ Sơn.

Many tourists also frequent coastal regions such as Nha Trang, the caves of Hạ Long Bay and the Marble Mountains. A large number of tourist complexes are under construction, such as the Bình Dương complex, with the largest artificial sea in Southeast Asia.

Vietnam will also host a major entertainment complex called Happyland, with rally racing, a five-star hotel and an amusement park. Located in southern Long An Province, near Ho Chi Minh City, this complex has been designed to accommodate 14 million tourists per year.

Vietnam's history has been one of devastation, political struggle, and rebellion. In addition to having been occupied by China four times, the Vietnamese were also divided and repeatedly attacked by other Asian and western invaders.

Occupation by both Chinese and French has left lasting cultural impressions on Vietnam, with Confucianism as the foundation for social etiquette, and French culinary influences still affecting Vietnamese cuisine.

Vietnam's empire ended with the Nguyễn dynasty, which ruled from 1802 to 1945. Most French people left by the end of World War II in 1945, but the French returned in 1946 until their conclusive defeat in 1954. With the Geneva Conference, Vietnam was divided into the communist-led North and the Republic in the South.

From 1955 to 1975, the two regions fought each other during the Vietnam War. This was also called the American War, due to economic and military aid to South Vietnam from the US. The Vietnam War was the most brutal in its history.

Over two thirds of the current population of Vietnam was born after 1975. Many young Vietnamese imitate American customs and keep up-to-date with US pop culture.

Popular Attractions

Most travelers will be fascinated by Vietnam's wonderful natural beauty – from green rice fields in the north to the lively Mekong Delta in the south. Vietnam's rich history and ancient traditions also serve as a major tourist attraction. Aside from museums and memorials, there are also many noteworthy ancient temples worth visiting.

Nature lovers will be intrigued by Halong Bay, northern Vietnam's number-one tourist spot. Located on a 120-km coastline, the 'Bay of Descending Dragons' is a beautiful national park with many limestone pillars topped by forest, rising from water in the Gulf of Tonkin. This World Heritage Site consists of a spectacular seascape of islands.

Tourists can also visit the golden Thien Mu Pagoda, which overlooks the Perfume River. Thien Mu is an historical site, the unofficial symbol of the former imperial capital, built in 1601 during the rule of the Nguyễn Lords, with redevelopments and detailed features added over the centuries.

For a taste of the locals' favorite scenic spot, you can visit Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the historical center of Hanoi. The lake is where, according to legend, King Le Loi received a magical sword with which he drove out Chinese invaders.

Ho Chi Minh City is the place to be for urban minds. This historical city is the lively commercial hub of the country, where shoppers can find Vietnam's best deals, and tourists can enjoy a cosmopolitan restaurant and cafe scene.

At Dong Khoi Street in the center of Ho Chi Minh City you can see the HCMC Museum of anecdotal and historical artifacts, and the grand Notre Dame Cathedral.

For many, a visit to Reunification Palace is obligatory. Also known as Independence Palace, this is where South Vietnam's president resided, and its original furniture is still there.

It is chiefly famous as the spot where the war ended, when North Vietnam's tanks stopped there on 30 April 1975. Nearby is the War Remnants Museum, giving a perspective on the brutality and devastation caused by the war.

Popular Souvenirs

Vietnamese souvenir shops often sell T-shirts with the national flag and portraits of "Uncle Ho." This might not be so popular abroad, as most Vietnamese overseas are highly critical of the former Vietnamese government. A less controversial purchase to use as a gift might be the traditional straw hat (nón lá).

Popular Restaurant Food

Vietnamese food is rich in flavor, using common ingredients such as rice, fresh herbs, fish sauce, shrimp paste, soy sauce, fruit and vegetables, to create its distinctive tastes.

Vietnam's national dish is phở, a rice noodle soup with beef or chicken, available at any time of day, and most often eaten by locals for breakfast. Hanoi is home to several famous phở restaurants, with roadside stalls serving the dish at cheaper prices and often with richer taste.

Most restaurants/cafes in Vietnam offer Vietnamese food, along with some common western food and Chinese dishes. A popular item locally is bahn mi, toasted baguette with pickles, herbs, and vegetables, usually with beef or chicken and chile-mayonnaise.

Other delicious options worth trying are cơm tấm, a dish made from broken rice grains served with meat (beef, chicken, or pork) and bánh cuốn (steamed rice rolls).

Some elements of Vietnamese culture have Chinese origins, with Confucianism and Taoism influencing its traditional political system and philosophy. Buddhism, the country's predominant religion, is strongly entwined with popular culture, which has a major focus on humanity and harmony.

Vietnamese people highly value family and community, as well as key cultural symbols, such as the Vietnamese dragon, and mythical figures.

In the modern era, the cultural life of Vietnam has been deeply influenced by government-controlled media and cultural programs. Since the 1990s, Vietnam has seen greater exposure to Southeast Asian, European and American cultural influences. Notable influences from France and the United States have become evident in Vietnam, through history and pop culture.

The Vietnamese language contains many words borrowed from Chinese. Nevertheless, Vietnamese culture is quite distinct from Chinese culture, partly because the Vietnamese have absorbed cultural influences from neighboring Hindu civilizations, such as the Champa and the Khmer empires.

Traditional clothing: Vietnam's most common traditional attire is the "ao dai" (flowing tunic). There are different styles of ao dai in different regions of the country. It is a four/five-part flowing tunic, with two equal front flaps tied together.

The men's costume is very similar to the women's, with a snug collar buttoned down to the waist on the left side. The male tunic extends only to the knees and is more loose-fitting.

Food: Rice, bread, noodles and vegetables are common in Vietnam. Baguettes and coffee are popular with locals, usually for breakfast, with tea or coffee breaks less common. Dinners usually consist of one or two main dishes, and consist of a combination of broth, meat, and vegetables.

Traditional festivals: Vietnam celebrates many festivals each year. Because it is a Buddhist country, many traditional festivals are related to Buddhism. The Mid-Autumn Festival is one such celebration.

Visit Vietnam with Asia Highlights

Asia Highlights welcomes the chance to help you design your perfect trip to Vietnam. Our knowledgeable staff will assist you in selecting destinations, accommodations and activities that best suit your requirements.

Check out the following links to learn more about our tours and get a head start on planning your hassle-free vacation today!

• 10-Day Best of Vietnam with Mekong Delta
• 13-Day Vietnam Classic Wonders with Sapa
• 14-Day Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos Tour

You might like to read

• 8 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Vietnam
• How to Plan a Vietnam Travel - 10 Things You Need to Know
• Best Time to Visit Vietnam
• The People of Vietnam

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Office for Coastal Management

Tourism and recreation.

Fast Facts / Tourism and Recreation

Tourism and recreation support a wide range of businesses in the nation’s shore-adjacent zip codes, from restaurants, hotels, aquariums, and marinas to boat manufacturers and sporting goods stores. The following facts are based on the latest available economic data 1 (2018).

2.5 Million People

Almost 2.5 million people are employed by ocean-based tourism and recreation.

$66 Billion Earnings

Workers in the ocean-based tourism and recreation sector earned about $65.6 billion in annual wages.

$143 Billion GDP

Ocean-based tourism and recreation contributes approximately $143 billion in gross domestic product to the national economy each year.

An Industry Leader

The ocean-based tourism and recreation sector employs more Americans than the entire real estate industry, as well as more people than building construction and telecommunications combined.

Steady Growth

The industry added 54,000 jobs (2.3 percent growth) from 2017 to 2018—adding jobs at a slightly higher rate than the overall U.S. economy (1.6 percent growth).

In terms of employment, California, Florida, New York, Hawaii, and New Jersey are the five largest contributors to marine-based tourism and recreation, accounting for more than half of this sector’s total employment in 2018. In terms of gross domestic product, New York, California, Florida, Hawaii, and Washington State were the five largest contributors, accounting for more than half the national gross domestic product of this sector in 2018.

Leisure and Hospitality in Coastal Counties

In the larger economic sector of leisure and hospitality*, which includes all hotels and restaurants located in shoreline-adjacent counties, the economic contributions are also substantial. Statistics 2 include the following:

• Employs almost 6.9 million people
• Generates over $196 billion in earnings
• Contributes $427 billion to the gross domestic product

*Note: Economics: National Ocean Watch (ENOW) is a NOAA economics database on the Digital Coast that features time-series data focused on the six economic sectors that are dependent on the oceans and Great Lakes. ENOW's tourism and recreation statistics are good indicators of coastal and ocean tourism because they estimate the ocean-dependent portion of business for hotels and restaurants by including only those establishments located in shore-adjacent zip code areas, and they exclude all forms of sports and entertainment that are not ocean-related.

Statistics for the leisure and hospitality sector, on the other hand, include all hotels and restaurants located anywhere in a shore-adjacent county, many of which are far from the coast and have very little business connected to ocean tourism. These statistics also include activities associated with all forms of sports and entertainment, including sports arenas (e.g., professional baseball and football stadiums), Broadway plays, casinos, and racetracks.

Source: NOAA Office for Coastal Management

1: Economics: National Ocean Watch

2: Total Economy for US Coastal Shoreline Counties

Additional Fast Facts

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• Climate Change Predictions
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• Marine Economy
• Natural Infrastructure
• Research Reserves
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• Shoreline Length
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• Top Ten Natural Infrastructure
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Ghana Travel Guide: Essential Facts and Information

As one of the most popular tourist destinations in West Africa,  Ghana  has something for every kind of traveler . From its cosmopolitan capital to historic cities steeped in Ashanti culture, the country is known for its urban flair; while its parks and game reserves are filled with exotic wildlife. On the coast, secluded beaches are interspersed with forts that serve as a reminder of Ghana's tragic role in the slave trade. This is one of the region's wealthiest, most stable countries - making it a great starting point for first-time visitors to Africa . 

Ghana is located on the shores of the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa . It shares land borders with Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire and Togo. 

With a total area of 92,098 miles/ 238,533 square kilometers, Ghana is similar in size to the United Kingdom.

Capital City:

The capital of Ghana is Accra, located on the country's southern shore. 

Population:

According to July 2016 estimates by the CIA World Factbook, Ghana has a population of almost 27 million people. Akan is the largest ethnic group, accounting for approximately half of the total population. 

English is the official language and the lingua franca in Ghana. However, around 80 indigenous languages are also spoken - of these, Akan dialects like Ashanti and Fante are the most widely used. 

Christianity is the most popular religion in Ghana, accounting for 71% of the population. Just over 17% of Ghanaians identify as Muslim. 

Ghana's currency is the Ghanaian cedi. For accurate exchange rates, use this currency converter .

Thanks to its equatorial location, Ghana has a tropical climate with hot weather all year round. Although temperatures vary slightly according to geographical region, you can expect daily averages of around 85°F/ 30°C. The wet season generally lasts from May to September (although in the south of the country there are two rainy seasons - March to June, and September to November). 

When to Go:

The best time to visit Ghana  is during the dry season (October to April), when precipitation is limited and humidity is at its lowest. This is also the time of year with the least mosquitoes, while unpaved roads are usually in good condition. 

Key Attractions:

Cape Coast and Elmina Castles

The whitewashed castles at Cape Coast and Elmina are the most impressive of Ghana's remaining slave forts. Built in the 17th and 15th centuries respectively, both served as holding stations for African slaves en route to Europe and the Americas. Today, castle tours and museum exhibits offer an emotional insight into one of the darkest periods of human history.

With a reputation as one of the safest capital cities in West Africa, Accra is a bustling metropolis known as much for its traditional culture as it is for its music scene, restaurants and nightclubs. Top attractions include colorful Makola Market (a great place to shop for souvenirs); and the National Museum, home of Ashanti, Ghanaian and slave trade artifacts. 

Kakum National Park

Located in southern Ghana, Kakum National Park offers visitors the chance to explore a tract of unspoiled tropical rainforest filled with fascinating animals - including rare forest elephants and buffalo. Over 250 different bird species have been recorded within the park, and there's an excellent canopy walkway measuring some 1150 feet/350 meters. 

Mole National Park

As Ghana's largest national park, Mole is the top safari destination for visiting wildlife lovers. It is home to elephant, buffalo, leopard and the rare roan antelope. If you're lucky, you may spot one of the park's recently re-introduced lions, while the birdlife here is also fantastic. There are options for vehicle and walking safaris under the supervision of a local guide. 

Getting There

Located in Accra, Kotoka International Airport (ACC) is Ghana's main gateway for overseas travelers. Major airlines that fly to Kotoka International Airport include Delta Airlines, British Airways, Emirates and South African Airways. Visitors from most countries (including those in North America and Europe) will need a visa to enter the country - check this website or consult with your nearest embassy for further details on requirements and processing times.

Medical Requirements

As well as ensuring that your routine vaccines are up-to-date, you will need to be vaccinated against yellow fever before traveling to Ghana. Anti- malaria prophylactics are strongly recommended, as are vaccines for Hepatitis A and typhoid. Women who are pregnant or trying to conceive should be aware that Zika virus is a risk in Ghana, too. For a full list of medical requirements, check the CDC website . 

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10 of the Best Things to Do in Accra, Ghana

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National Household Travel Survey Daily Travel Quick Facts

Daily Travel is a trip from one point to another on a single day.

HOW WE TRAVEL

• 87 percent of daily trips take place in personal vehicles
• 91 percent of people commuting to work use personal vehicles

HOW MANY TRIPS WE TAKE EVERY DAY

• Americans take 1.1 billion trips a day — four for every person in the U.S
• U.S. daily travel averages 11 billion miles a day — almost 40 miles per person per day

HOW MANY TRIPS WE TAKE IN A YEAR

• Americans take 411 billion daily trips a year or about 1,500 trips per person
• U.S. daily travel totals about 4 trillion miles — 14,500 miles per person

WHY WE TRAVEL

• 45 percent of daily trips are taken for shopping and errands
• 27 percent of daily trips are social and recreational, such as visiting a friend
• 15 percent of daily trips are taken for commuting

WHAT WE DRIVE

• 57 percent are cars or station wagons
• 21 percent are vans or SUVs
• 19 percent are light trucks

WHEN WE TRAVEL

• The most daily trips are made on Friday (16 percent)
• The fewest daily trips are made on Sunday (13 percent)
• More daily trips are taken between noon and 1 p.m. (7.4 percent) than between 8 a.m. - 9 a.m. (5.5 percent)

THE AVERAGE DRIVER

• Spends 55 minutes a day behind the wheel
• Drives 29 miles a day

MEN VS. WOMEN

• Women drive less (21 to 38 miles per day)
• Men drive longer (67 to 44 minutes per day)

SOURCE: National Household Travel Survey, 2001-2002. 

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Impact of technology on travel and tourism - statistics & facts

What are the main technology trends in travel and tourism, travel apps: two countries dominate the market, key insights.

Detailed statistics

Revenue of Amadeus 2010-2022

Amadeus: number of bookings 2010-2022

Revenue of Sabre Corp. worldwide 2012-2023

Company Insights High-Growth Companies Asia-Pacific

• Great Deals E-Commerce Corporation
• Spofeed Co., Ltd.

Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic

Current statistics on this topic.

Online Travel Market

Most downloaded travel apps worldwide 2022, by aggregated downloads

IT Services

Tour Operators & Travel Agencies

Travel agencies and tour operators using cloud computing services EU 2016-2021

Related topics

• Online travel market
• Digitalization of the travel industry
• Digitalization of the hospitality industry worldwide

Online travel trends

• Artificial intelligence (AI) use in travel and tourism
• Travel and tourism in the metaverse
• Mobile travel trends

Online travel companies

• Booking Holdings Inc.
• Expedia Group, Inc.
• Trip.com Group
• Tripadvisor

Recommended statistics

Global distribution systems (gdss).

• Basic Statistic Revenue of Amadeus 2010-2022
• Basic Statistic Revenue of Amadeus 2010-2022, by segment
• Basic Statistic Amadeus: number of bookings 2010-2022
• Basic Statistic Revenue of Sabre Corp. worldwide 2012-2023
• Basic Statistic Revenue of Sabre Corp. worldwide 2019-2023, by segment
• Premium Statistic Revenue of Travelport worldwide 2010-2022
• Basic Statistic Revenue of Travelport 2013-2018, by segment

Revenue of Amadeus worldwide from 2010 to 2022 (in billion U.S. dollars)

Revenue of Amadeus 2010-2022, by segment

Revenue of Amadeus worldwide in 2022, by business segment (in million euros)

Number of travel bookings made using the Amadeus distribution platform from 2010 to 2022 (in millions)

Revenue of Sabre Corp. worldwide from 2012 to 2023 (in billion U.S. dollars)

Revenue of Sabre Corp. worldwide 2019-2023, by segment

Revenue of Sabre Corp. worldwide from 2019 to 2023, by business segment (in billion U.S. dollars)

Revenue of Travelport worldwide 2010-2022

Revenue of Travelport Worldwide Limited worldwide from 2010 to 2022 (in billion U.S. dollars)

Revenue of Travelport 2013-2018, by segment

Revenue of Travelport worldwide from 2013 to 2018, by business segment (in million U.S. dollars)

Travel apps

• Premium Statistic Revenue of the travel apps industry worldwide 2017-2027
• Premium Statistic Travel apps revenue in selected countries worldwide 2022
• Premium Statistic Most downloaded travel apps worldwide 2022, by aggregated downloads
• Premium Statistic Number of aggregated downloads of leading online travel agency apps worldwide 2023
• Premium Statistic Average number of reviews of travel and tourism apps worldwide 2022
• Premium Statistic Average number of ratings of travel and tourism apps worldwide 2022
• Premium Statistic Average retention rate of travel and tourism apps worldwide 2022
• Premium Statistic Leading travel apps in the U.S. 2022, by market share
• Premium Statistic Leading travel apps in Europe 2022, by market share

Revenue of the travel apps industry worldwide 2017-2027

Revenue of the travel apps market worldwide from 2017 to 2027 (in billion U.S. dollars)

Travel apps revenue in selected countries worldwide 2022

Revenue of travel apps in selected countries worldwide in 2022 (in million U.S. dollars)

Most downloaded travel apps worldwide in 2022, by aggregated number of downloads (in millions)

Number of aggregated downloads of leading online travel agency apps worldwide 2023

Number of aggregated downloads of selected leading online travel agency apps worldwide in 2023 (in millions)

Average number of reviews of travel and tourism apps worldwide 2022

Average number of reviews of travel, tourism, and hospitality apps worldwide in 2022

Average number of ratings of travel and tourism apps worldwide 2022

Average number of ratings of travel, tourism, and hospitality apps worldwide in 2022

Average retention rate of travel and tourism apps worldwide 2022

Average retention rate of travel, tourism, and hospitality apps worldwide in 2022

Leading travel apps in the U.S. 2022, by market share

Market share of leading travel apps in the United States in 2022

Leading travel apps in Europe 2022, by market share

Market share of leading travel apps in Europe in 2022

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

• Premium Statistic Number of companies using ChatGPT within their business 2023, by industry
• Premium Statistic Share of travel firms that implemented AI strategies worldwide 2021, by AI maturity
• Premium Statistic AI-influenced revenue share of travel companies worldwide 2018-2024
• Premium Statistic Travelers expecting to use AI to plan trips in 2033 worldwide 2022, by aspect
• Premium Statistic Expected usage of ChatGPT to plan next trip in the U.S. 2023
• Premium Statistic U.S. adults that thought a Chat-GPT text on travel was AI/human-made 2023
• Basic Statistic Interest in AI-related products among U.S. adults 2023

Number of companies using ChatGPT within their business 2023, by industry

Amount of companies using ChatGPT in their business function in 2023, by industry

Share of travel firms that implemented AI strategies worldwide 2021, by AI maturity

Share of travel companies that implemented Artificial Intelligence (AI) strategies worldwide as of September 2021, by maturity of AI strategies

AI-influenced revenue share of travel companies worldwide 2018-2024

Share of travel companies' revenue that was influenced by Artificial Intelligence (AI) worldwide in 2018 and 2021, with a forecast for 2024

Travelers expecting to use AI to plan trips in 2033 worldwide 2022, by aspect

Share of travelers that would trust using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to plan travel in 2033 worldwide as of August 2022, by travel aspect

Expected usage of ChatGPT to plan next trip in the U.S. 2023

Likelihood of using ChatGPT in the process of planning the next trip among respondents in the United States as of April 2023

U.S. adults that thought a Chat-GPT text on travel was AI/human-made 2023

Share of adults that believed a ChatGPT-generated text about travel was made by an Artificial Intelligence (AI) or a human in the United States as of March 2023

Interest in AI-related products among U.S. adults 2023

Share of adults in the United States who are interested in artificial intelligence (AI) related products as of February 2023

Metaverse and extended reality (XR)

• Basic Statistic Leading business sectors already investing in the metaverse 2022
• Premium Statistic U.S teens and adults on enhanced experiences in the metaverse 2022
• Premium Statistic Interest in metaverse travel activities of Gen Z in the U.S. and the UK 2022
• Premium Statistic Interest in AR in the U.S. 2022, by use case
• Premium Statistic Interest in VR in the U.S. 2022, by use case

Leading business sectors already investing in the metaverse 2022

Leading business sectors worldwide that have already invested in the metaverse as of March 2022

U.S teens and adults on enhanced experiences in the metaverse 2022

Experiences expected to be better in a virtual or metaverse environment according to teens and adults in the United States as of May 2022

Interest in metaverse travel activities of Gen Z in the U.S. and the UK 2022

Interest in metaverse travel activities of Gen Z in the United States and the United Kingdom (UK) as of February 2022

Interest in AR in the U.S. 2022, by use case

Interest in augmented reality (AR) in the United States as of October 2022, by use case

Interest in VR in the U.S. 2022, by use case

Interest in virtual reality (VR) in the United States as of October 2022, by use case

Use of technology

• Premium Statistic Travelers' expected use of selected planning tools for trips in 2033 worldwide 2022
• Premium Statistic Expected comfort level with selected payment methods for trips in 2033 worldwide 2022
• Premium Statistic Global consumer and merchant acceptance of crypto payments 2021, by industry
• Basic Statistic Popular goods and services to buy with crypto 2022, by gender and income group
• Premium Statistic Travel agencies and tour operators using cloud computing services EU 2016-2021

Travelers' expected use of selected planning tools for trips in 2033 worldwide 2022

Share of travelers expecting to use selected planning tools for trips in 2033 worldwide as of August 2022

Expected comfort level with selected payment methods for trips in 2033 worldwide 2022

Share of travelers expecting to be comfortable in using selected payment methods for trips in 2033 worldwide as of August 2022

Global consumer and merchant acceptance of crypto payments 2021, by industry

Willingness to use/accept cryptocurrencies for payments by consumers/merchants across various industries worldwide as of 2021

Popular goods and services to buy with crypto 2022, by gender and income group

Most popular goods and services bought by consumers worldwide when using cryptocurrencies for online shopping in 2022, by gender and income group

Use of cloud computing services among travel agencies, tour operators, and related activities in the European Union (EU 27) from 2016 to 2021, by cloud service

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Sarawak Tourism Quick Facts

Dataset description.

The dataset provides a comprehensive and detailed statistic in relation to the tourism industry in Sarawak.

Data and Resources

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