Many Filipinos Dream of Traveling to Paris for the Holidays, According to Study

Experience festive Christmas markets, behold breathtaking views, embark on a sunny escape, or indulge in a snowy retreat—we all harbor unique visions of our dream holiday destinations. Have you ever wondered about the travel aspirations of the rest of the world?

A recent study conducted by Cloudwards, one of the leading publications in the cloud technology world, tapped into Google search data and found out some fascinating insights about trending holiday destinations.

Data reveals that among the top international city destinations, Christmas travelers from 20 countries are keen to go to London, followed by Vienna (15), New York City (8), Paris (8), and Budapest (6).

“It’s not hard to understand why European countries are such a draw for people from outside the continent, given Europe’s history and long association with all things Christmas,” says the report. “For one thing, Europe was the birthplace of a multitude of winter traditions.” 

Centuries before the time of Jesus, Europeans marked the winter solstice through various traditions. In Scandinavia, these practices involved burning logs and festive feasting during the Yule period, while in Germany, there were ceremonies dedicated to honoring Odin, the Pagan god.

“Today, the idea of Christmas in a European city conjures up images of frost or snow-covered historical buildings and monuments, glittering Christmas lights, quaint little shops, cozy cafés serving winter-themed coffees and mulled wine, towering Christmas trees and, of course, the infamous Christmas markets. Evidently, for many, this prospect is just too lovely to resist,” the study adds. 

Photo by Cloudwards.net.

London actually attracts a diverse group of travelers during the Christmas season. The capital of the United Kingdom is the most popular destination for travelers from Switzerland, Australia, South Africa, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, India, Egypt, Kuwait and Russia, among others.

People from around the world fly to London to experience its enchanting Christmas lights, ice-skating rinks (including one at Hampton Court Palace), inviting pubs, especially those adorned with a fireplace. The city also offers dozens of majestic historic sites and enticing shopping opportunities.

“Covent Garden and Hyde Park are two of the most famous Christmas market destinations while illuminations take place on Oxford Street, Carnaby Street, the Strand, Kew Gardens and Sloane Square. Some like to venture to Notting Hill, the East End or travel back in time with a visit to the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey or Buckingham Palace,” the study also notes. 

Meanwhile, various Asian countries share a collective preference for European Christmas destinations. Among them, India, Kuwait, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and Singapore particularly favor London. As for countries like the Philippines and Lebanon, Paris is the top choice, while Jordan stands out with a distinctive preference for Tokyo.