Tripadvisor has announced its annual ranking of up-and-coming travel destinations – and you don’t even have to leave the UK to be on trend.
Ipswich in Suffolk has been named one of the top emerging destinations in the world, coming in at number 14, making it the only UK destination on the 2020 Travellers’ Choice Destination list.
According to data analysed by the site, travellers are falling for the East Anglian town thanks to its picturesque waterfront. Ipswich was also praised for retaining its “historical charm” while providing a “cultural hub of activity”. Tourist highlights include Christchurch Park, Regent Theatre and Christchurch Mansion.
“With superb transport links, an excellent range of accommodation options and ever-growing list of theatres, dance houses and things to, Ipswich is attracting some well-deserved traveller attention,” Tripadvisor added.
Kaliningrad in Russia was named the top emerging destination in the world overall, based on data from reviews, interest and ‘saves’ on the platform.
The top 25 emerging destinations in the world, according to Tripadvisor:
Kaliningrad, Russia
Saranda, Albania
Beirut, Lebanon
Luxor, Egypt
Naoussa, Greece
Rugen Island, Germany
Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam
Monopoli, Italy
La Paz, Mexico
Curaçao, Caribbean
Ile d’Oleron, France
Guayaquil, Ecuador
Tulsa, United States
Ipswich, United Kingdom
Franschhoek, South Africa
Tangier, Morocco
Takamatsu, Japan
Cala d’Or, Spain
Petropolis, Brazil
Antwerp, Belgium
Mirissa, Sri Lanka
Alvor, Portugal
Winnipeg, Canada
Darwin, Australia
Agra, India
The awards also looked at “trending” destinations, judged by the locations that had seen the biggest spikes in positive reviews and ratings over the last year.
The highest ranked trending destination in the UK was Edinburgh at number 23, praised for its “heritage, culture and festivals”.
“Take a long walk around the centre to explore the World Heritage Sites of the Old Town and New Town, as well as all the city’s museums and galleries,” the site recommends.
“Then stop for a delicious meal made from fresh Scottish produce before heading out to take in one of Edinburgh’s many events — including the famous summer festivals of culture, or the Winter Festivals of music, light and ceilidhs.”
The top 25 global trending destinations, according to Tripadvisor:
Kochi, India
Luzon, Philippines
Porto, Portugal
Porto Seguro, Brazil
Gramado, Brazil
Lombok, Indonesia
Da Nang, Vietnam
Zakynthos, Greece
Tel Aviv, Israel
Krakow, Poland
Island of Malta, MaltaI
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Cusco, Peru
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Vienna, Austria
Fuerteventura, Spain
Mexico City, Mexico
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Fes, Morocco
Budapest, Hungary
Zanzibar Island, Tanzania
Cartagena, Colombia
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Cebu, Philippines
Moscow, Russia.