After nearly three years at home due to pandemic travel restrictions, travelers are ready to experience the world. According to a new report from AAA, international travel is up 200 percent over 2022 figures. Hotels are experiencing the biggest surge in bookings, up 300 percent over last year. Airline tickets have also seen a sharp spike—air travel is up 30 percent for international destinations. 

“Travelers are making up for lost time and are willing to spend more to see the world,” said Paula Twidale, senior vice president of travel at AAA. “If you do your homework and rely on travel experts, like AAA travel advisors, there are deals to be had. But the key is giving yourself plenty of time to plan ahead.”  

The most popular destinations for Americans in 2023 are Europe and Canada. London takes the top spot with a 350 percent increase in travel over 2022. Rome, Paris, Dublin and Barcelona also make the top list of European destinations, while Vancouver, Toronto and Calgary are the most popular Canadian destinations. 

“There’s nothing like going abroad. Personally, I just renewed my passport for a long overdue trip to see family in the United Kingdom,” Twidale said. “There’s excitement this year for international travel, but also a lot of questions about everything from passports to travel insurance.”  

Twidale recommends making sure all your travel documents are in order before booking your trip.