As the vaccine continues to roll out and worries about the pandemic fade, Americans are starting to travel again. A study conducted by Destination Analysts in 2022 surveyed over 4,000 Americans and found that 86% of them have plans to travel within the year. Around 28.4% of respondents plan to travel internationally, whereas 63% want to visit someplace new.
These numbers indicate a significant shift in attitude compared to last year. A time when travel was severely restricted due to the pandemic. Now that vaccines are available and precautions can be taken, people are once again eager to explore the world around them. This shift is sure to positively impact the economy, as travel and tourism are significant drivers of growth.
Given this, it’s no surprise that many people are already planning their post-pandemic vacations. If you’re one of them, here are some must-try tourist attractions that should be on your list:
For Nature Lovers
If you love getting lost in the beauty and peace of nature, then you’ll want to put nature spots on your list of must-see tourist attractions. From awe-inspiring waterfalls to peaceful gardens, these natural wonders are sure to please.
Suppose you’re in the city visiting zoos and aquariums. In that case, you’d want to see the animals in their natural habitat and learn about their ecology. Guided tours are available in many of these places, so you can learn about the animals as much as possible. Moreover, you can also see shows and feed the animals in some of these attractions.
On the one hand, island-hopping is a must if you go to a tropical country for your vacation. Visit different beaches, sun-bathe, dive, and be amazed by the coral reefs and the various fish species you’ll encounter. On the other hand, if you visit a cold country, don’t miss the opportunity to go skiing or snowboarding on their world-famous slopes. You can also try other winter sports like ice skating, sledding, and even building a snowman.
Thrill-seekers
If you’re looking for a more adrenaline-pumping vacation, then theme parks and amusement parks should be at the top of your list. There are places where you can experience excitement and adventure, often at high speeds or heights. From roller coasters to cliff diving, there’s something for everyone who loves a good adrenaline rush. Moreover, water parks are also a great option if you’re looking to cool off and have some fun in the sun. You can often find package deals that include access to both the water and theme parks.
If you like mysteries and puzzles, you can try escape rooms where you can try various puzzles to get out. This is an excellent option for those who like to use their brains and think outside the box. But if you’re the type who likes ghost stories and horror movies, you can go on a hayride or walk through a haunted house on Halloween. This is a great way to test your nerves and see if you can handle life-like horror on the scariest day of the year.
For outdoorsy thrill-seekers, you can go hiking, camping, or rock climbing. You could also try ziplining or bungee jumping. These activities are usually available in tourist areas. And they are a great way to get an aerial view of the area. They can also be a lot of fun and a great way to get some exercise.
History Buffs and Culture Aficionados
If you’re more interested in culture and history, your vacation is incomplete without visits to museums. In many major cities, you can find a walking tour covering all major tourist attractions in a single day.
You can also start with ancient ruins and temples—see how people lived in centuries past and learn about their belief systems. Then, move on to the more recent history by visiting a war museum or learning about the country’s struggle for independence.
And, of course, you’re not discovering culture if you don’t try local cuisine. While exploring a new city, stop by cafes and restaurants to get a taste of the area’s flavor. Many tourist attractions also have food stands where you can buy traditional dishes to take home with you. If you time your vacation right, you can join in the locals’ festivities. Participating in their celebrations would give you the best cultural experience you can have where you can learn about their customs and traditions.
So there you have it—a few ideas to help get you started on planning your next vacation. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, there’s a destination that’s perfect for you. So start packing your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip.
