Hong Kong remains the most visited country in the world.

Global market research firm Euromonitor International has just released its Top 100 most visited cities in the world for 2019. This report is based on statistics from 2018 and projections for this year. According to the report, Hong Kong tops the list with 26.7 million visitors, followed by Bangkok (Thailand), Macau, Singapore, London (UK), and others.

The report's author, Rabia Yasmeen, a senior analyst, noted that the current tensions in Hong Kong have led to an 8.7% drop in tourist numbers – from 29.2 million in 2018 to 26.7 million this year. However, the city is still projected to maintain its top position in 2019.

Although Asia-Pacific cities dominated this year's rankings, Europe remained the second most popular destination for global travelers. Facing competition from Asian and European cities, American cities are increasingly falling in the rankings, despite rising visitor numbers. Trade tensions with China are a major concern for the tourism industry in many American cities.

In the Middle East and Africa, Euromonitor noted stable growth rates compared to other cities worldwide. Notably, Cairo and Hurghada (Egypt) regained their rankings in the top 100, thanks to a restructuring strategy for their tourism industry.

"As tourism becomes a platform for economic growth and receives deeper government attention, cities will become centers of innovation and attract technology investment, with sustainable development being the focus in the coming years," Yasmeen commented.

Yasmeen's study statistically analyzed the number of foreign visitors who arrived in a city and stayed for more than 24 hours. The visitor count included those traveling for business, leisure, and visiting family or friends, but excluded those working or studying abroad, military personnel, employees on job rotations, passengers, and migrants due to war or natural disasters.

LIST OF THE WORLD'S TOP 10 TRAVEL DESTINATIONS IN 2019

1. Hong Kong - 26.7 million

2. Bangkok - 25.8 million

3. Macau - 20.6 million

4. Singapore - 19.8 million

5. London - 19.6 million

6. Paris - 19.1 million

7. Dubai - 16.3 million

8. Delhi - 15.2 million

9. Istanbul - 14.7 million

10. Kuala Lumpur - 14.1 million

Huong Thao