Everyone's Going to This European City This Summer (It's Not Paris)
Booking.com released data on the top trending international destinations this Fourth of July.
For many Americans, celebrating Independence Day in the US is all about firing up the BBQ in their backyard, cracking up a cold beverage, and marveling at some jaw-dropping fireworks above your head. Others, though, are more into the idea of traveling for the occasion.
According to a recent survey by NerdWallet, the personal finance website, 31% of Americans plan to travel for the holiday, which this year falls on a Thursday, making long five-day weekends a plausible reality for many. Some of these travelers will even cross the country's boundaries and will travel internationally.
But they're not looking to go just anywhere. According to Booking.com's new findings on Fourth of July-related travels, one international city takes the cake for being the most desirable one for Americans this year—and it looks like instead of BBQ and beer, American travelers are eyeing paella and sangria this Fourth of July.Barcelona is reportedly on everyone's wish list for the occasion, boasting a whopping 70% year-over-year increase in search volume. That's the steepest year-over-year search increase even when compared to domestic destinations, where the top trending one is Panama City Beach, Florida, with a 32% year-over-year increase in searches.
For the long weekend—from July 3 through July 7, in Booking.com's study—Americans in search of international destinations are also looking to travel longer distances than Europe. The second top trending international destination for the holiday is, in fact, Tokyo, which is witnessing a 32% year-over-year search increase.
The top three also include France's gorgeous Paris, with a 27% year-over-year increase in searches; Rome, with a 23% year-over-year search increase; and Amsterdam, with a 17% year-over-year search increase.
Barcelona's uptick in interest might also be related to its geographical amenities. The data shows that the international destination checks another box travelers desire in 2024. According to the same Booking.com study, 78% of Americans said that being close to water instantly makes them feel more relaxed, and 34% said they are interested in water-centric vacations in 2024. In this perspective, Barcelona is the place to be—you get the bustling city feel while also being steps away from some gorgeous and fun beaches, too.