Theme parks, European vacations top summer travel itineraries

According to a recent AAA Travel survey, two-thirds of leisure travelers (64 percent) plan to take vacations this summer. Many of those vacationers will head to historical European cities or soak up the sun in Orlando’s theme parks and attractions, according to an analysis of AAA’s travel booking data.

“Summer travel planning is in full swing and travelers are eager to visit famous landmarks in Europe, family attractions stateside, and anything in between ,” said Tammy Arnette, Senior Public Affairs Specialist for AAA.   “AAA recommends travelers plan ahead and book early with the expertise of a knowledgeable travel agent to maximize your vacation experience, saving time and money so you can focus on making vacation memories that will last well after summer fades away.”

Top Summer Travel Destinations

These are the top summer travel destinations, based on AAA Travel bookings for trips June 1 through August 15, 2019:

1. Orlando, Florida (1)
2. London, England (5)
3. Rome, Italy (2)
4. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (3)
5. Dublin, Ireland (4)
6. Paris, France (7)
7. Seattle, Washington (9)
8. Anchorage, Alaska (8)
9. Honolulu, Hawaii (6)
10. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (12)

*Number in parentheses indicates summer 2018 ranking.

Top trends for summer travel this year include:

• Orlando, Florida, once again claims the top spot as the most-visited summer travel destination. The city’s world-famous theme parks are a top draw for families, as Universal Orlando Resort and Walt Disney World prepare to unveil new attractions this summer.
• Europe is a bucket list destination for many Americans, and this summer is no exception. London has grown in popularity compared with last year, while Rome, Dublin and Paris continue to be hot spots for top summer travel destinations.
• Alaskan cruises are a top vacation choice for summer travelers this year, with Vancouver, Seattle and Anchorage topping the list of embarkation ports for these coveted sailings.
• After a harsh winter, many Americans will flock to warm-weather destinations, particularly those in Hawaii and the Caribbean. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, has once again cracked the top 10 after briefly dipping off last year’s list.  For travelers looking for more information about how to book a Caribbean vacation, AAA is holding an event at the AAA Car Care Insurance Travel Center location in Scott’s Addition on Thursday, May 2, 2019.  The event will feature Caribbean travel destinations and all inclusive travel benefits as well as some fun myth busting.  For more information, call (804) 887-3580.