Top International Destinations for 2015

When it comes to international travel this year, Americans are heading for the water – to sail on it or relax near it. But they’re also doing so in some far-flung ports of call, including some that are relatively new for cruises.

A Caribbean cruise is the top international vacation destination for 2015, retaining its first-place ranking from 2014, according to a new survey by Travel Leaders Group, which polled 1,226 U.S.-based travel agency owners, managers and frontline agents. At number two, also unchanged from 2014, is Cancun, Mexico.

But across the pond, things are changing. Europe is drawing American tourists in the highest numbers this millennium, capturing eight of the top 15 international destinations in the Travel Leaders survey including London, which jumped three spots to number three. European river cruises and Rome complete the top five.

Rounding out the top 10 international destinations for 2015 are Mediterranean cruises, Paris, France; Punta Cana, Dominican Republic; Montego Bay, Jamaica; and Playa del Carmen/Riviera Maya, Mexico.

As cruise lines including Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line launch new ships, there are more options for relaxation and exploration. The eastern Caribbean, a popular choice for those on their first voyage, includes such ports of call as the U.S. and British Virgin Islands. Southern Caribbean destinations, including the West Indies and Aruba, offer a chance to enjoy more remote, unspoiled scenery. Western Caribbean cruises sail to, among other places, Jamaica and Mexico, the latter providing an opportunity to explore Mayan ruins.

Cancun, Mexico remains a strong draw with its miles of beaches and activities for every age and interest, from history to shopping to hiking to watersports. Among this year’s noteworthy events, the annual Food and Wine Festival takes place March 12-15, with some of the world’s best chefs offering lectures, cooking demonstrations, wine tastings and other activities.

Just a hop across the Atlantic, London, with its wealth of museums, churches, palaces and pubs – as well as iconic, familiar sites, is a natural starting point for exploring Europe. One of the British capital’s most famous fictional residents, Sherlock Holmes, is the subject of an exhibit at the Museum of London that runs until April 12. In 2015, England marks the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo with a display at Windsor Castle, a short train ride from London.

River cruises are a relatively new, yet increasingly popular way to experience old-world European cities via leisurely voyages along the continent’s most scenic and historic waterways. Viking Cruises has a 15-day trip from Amsterdam to Budapest along the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers. Avalon Waterways offers a variety of European river cruises, including ones built around special interests as varied as beer, golf, art and jazz.

And finally, Rome, the eternal city, beckons travelers with its mix of history, food and culture. Among the not-to-be-missed sites are the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain and Vatican City, including the Sistine Chapel, where a new lighting system enables visitors to get a better look at the magnificent artwork. This summer the ancient Roman Baths of Caracalla will once again provide a stunning backdrop for opera performances.

For help planning an international vacation, call your local Travel Leaders Donovan Travel expert.