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Australia, July 16, 2009 – The results of Harris Poll 2009’s survey for the Top 15 International Vacation Destination for Americans ranks Australia as the number one country. Assuming that cost is not a factor in the equation, the survey also shows that 96% of Americans would be willing to vacation outside the US.

The survey results mark the return of Australia in the top rank. The country has been holding this position since 1997, except last year when it was dethroned by Italy. In the current ranking, Italy now places second, followed by Great Britain, France and Ireland.

The country of preference also seems to defer by demographic. Australia and Italy occupy the top two spots for all groups. Italy is favored by women, Echo Boomers (ages 18 to 32), GenXers (ages 33 to 44) and Baby Boomers (ages 45 to 63). The more mature audience (ages 64+) and men prefer Australia.

In terms of region, half the respondents selected a European country for a vacation if cost were not a consideration. This figure increase from last year’s 48%. While 24% selected a country in Asia or the Pacific. Finally, 15% chose a country in the Caribbean or the Americas – still the same as last year’s votes.

“We are thrilled that Australia continues to rank number one among Americans,” says Michelle Gysberts, Vice President of the Americas, Tourism Australia. “Over the last several months we have seen fares that are as much as 40 percent less than they were a year ago, meaning Americans can now act on their desires to visit Australia.”

Source:
marketingcharts.com
travelagentcentral.com