ASTA: Africa, Costa Rica Top the List of Unique Vacation Experiences

According to ASTA travel agent members in a January survey, Africa and Costa Rica are their top two unique destination recommendations. The top five ranked destinations, which also include Italy, Australia and Alaska, all offer varied activities and climates.
 
Africa ranked first in the survey results as respondents believe the safari experience in Africa is unparalleled throughout the entire world. Agents also feel the many diverse cultures and wildlife in Africa creates an endless adventure.
 
Costa Rica, which came in second, was cited for its combination of beach and rain forest in a friendly country. Agents expressed Costa Rica offers unique experiences at an affordable price for many Americans.
 
Italy was another favorite with the travel agents polled, who believe that the small town Italian lifestyle can be a very unique experience for Americans. Agents described diverse options in Italy from food and wine to beautiful landscapes that can result in a distinctive vacation.
 
Australia and Alaska ranked fourth and fifth, respectively.  Agents cited Australia’s rare fauna and wide variety of cultures, climates and experiences. Alaska was felt to have the most varied outdoor activities including dog sledding, ice climbing, kayaking, etc. in a gorgeous landscape.
 
Survey data was collected through the 2013 ASTA Research Family in January 2013. This survey has a 95 percent confidence rate with an error rate +/-4 percent.