There’s no doubt that tourism is big business and the top five tourist destinations in the world each receive over 60 million-plus visitors every single year. And this figure is increasing annually.
Tourism adds billions to the annual GDP of countries and the battle to stay top of the list is ongoing. Just remember to plan ahead and make sure you have a travel adapter that is suitable for your travel destination.
So, what are the top five destinations in the world by tourist arrivals? (Figures quoted are for 2018)
1. France – 89.4 million tourist visits
For over 25 years, France has been the most popular tourist destination in the world according to the United Nations World Tourism Organization, and it’s not hard to see why. Famous for its cuisine, this is one of the big draws, along with some of the best wines in the world of course! The many attractions include Disneyworld in Paris, the spectacular Alps and annual events such as the Tour de France. The voltage in France is 240V and the 2-pin Euro plug socket is common. Check our France travel adapter guide for more information.
2. Spain – 82.8 million tourist visits
Hugely popular with British tourists since the 1970s, Spain’s share of the tourism market continues to expand year on year. With almost guaranteed sunshine, fabulous beaches and resorts where the staff are multi-lingual, it’s easy to see why. Spain is a country of contrasts, from the sun-kissed Mediterranean beaches of the south and east, through the hot and humid center to the Pyrenees mountains in the north, there is something for everyone. Spain uses a voltage of 230V and 2-pin plugs. More information in our travel adapter for Spain guide.
3. United States – 79.6 million tourist visits
As such a vast country, the United States has so much to offer the tourist, that you’d think its visitor numbers would be much higher. I suspect the time and distance for many is a factor here, but they are certainly missing out. From Florida Everglades, Californian beaches, the Rocky Mountains The USA operates on a voltage of 110V, so items designed for 220-240V will probably not work. Check our USA travel adapter blog for more information.
4. China – 62.9 million tourist visits
As China has begun to be more open to western ideas and culture, at least for some, the visitor numbers have gradually increased. With fantastic sights, such as the Great China Wall, the Terracotta Army, the Forbidden City in Beijing and the Classical Gardens of Suzhou, it’s no surprise. China adopted a 240V electrical system and has three different plug and socket types. Our China travel adapter blog can help check your requirements when traveling.
5. Italy – 62.1 million tourist visits
Home of ancient Rome and the Roman Empire, a beautiful country so diverse from north to south and a population that takes coffee drinking and fashion to extremes, there is much to love about Italy. In the north are the Italian Alps and the Dolomites, the Apennines run through almost the spine of the country from north to south, while southern Italy is dominated by farming country. Don't forget Tuscany and of course the tiny Principality of San Marino on the east coast. Italy operates on a voltage of 230V and with two different plug designs, so make sure to check our Italy travel adapter blog before going on vacation.
Check the voltage requirements and the need for a travel adapter
Visiting any country, it’s important to make sure you go prepared. There can be a lot to think about in all the excitement, but make sure you pack a travel adapter to keep all your gadgets fully charged.
Also, check whether your items are compatible with the voltage of the country you are visiting. Many items are now dual voltage or voltage-independent, and items that can be charged via USB can be charged in any country using a travel adapter with USB connections.
