Every day, millions of people visit some of the most popular tourist attractions across the globe. A vacation for expats is no different- they also want to get away from time to time. The Expat Survey 2013 asked more than 8,000 global expats about their views on a number of topics, including their opinion on the best international vacation destinations. The responses came in from more than 125 countries, from participants of many different nationalities and backgrounds. The result is a comprehensive picture of how expats want to spend their holidays.

Planning the Trip

According to the survey, 81 percent of expats book their personal travel plans online directly with their travel providers. That figure was 38 percent when using an online travel comparison website, and 8 percent when speaking to a travel agent on the phone.

The most popular holiday was only a weekend break, at 58 percent, followed by sightseeing at 51 percent and a trip to the beach at 47 percent. In addition, 54 percent of the expats surveyed want to go somewhere different for each holiday.

The Best International Vacation Destinations 

While mixing it up is important, when polled, expats identified several key countries that are popular getaways according to the Expat Survey 2013:

1. United States
The most popular holiday destination for expats was the U.S., according to The Expat Survey of 2013. Favorite locations included Florida, New York, and Los Angeles, and it is easy to see why.

The Florida Keys is one of the most picturesque places in the country, and this 120-mile long chain of islands makes for a relaxing beach escape for anyone. In New York, both Manhattan as a whole and specific sites, like Grand Central Terminal and the Statue of Liberty, are exciting places to visit. Los Angeles offers beautiful weather and beaches.

2. France
The second most popular vacation for expats on The Expat Survey 2013’s list was France. This European nation is home to many attractions, but the most desirable locations to visit included  Paris, St. Tropez, and the Riviera. Visitors love St. Tropez’s beautiful beaches, shops, and architecture. In Paris, the Eiffel Tower is naturally one of the most visited locations in the city.

3. Spain
Spain was chosen as the third best international vacation destination in The Expat Survey of 2013. For expats who enjoy experiencing different cultures there are the historic cities of Barcelona and Seville, or for those who want to experience the beach they can visit Costa Blanca on the Mediterranean. In the survey 32 percent of respondents expressed a desire to have a cultural holiday, and few places are better for that than Spain.

4. The United Kingdom
While the U.S., France and Spain are ranked higher, the U.K. still receives plenty of attention from expats. The most popular destinations for expats when on holiday here are London, Brighton, and Cornwall. With the many ideal attractions in these locations, it is understandable as to why many people want to spend time here. For example, the Tower of London attracts a high number of visitors each day, and Big Ben – the famous clock tower – draws many more.

According to the survey, 64 percent of expats buy travel insurance when they need it, and 25 percent maintain an annual policy for their holiday needs. No matter where they travel, expats will need international insurance. Particularly, if you are looking to drive overseas, make sure your car insurance policy is portable and provides borderless coverage.