London has topped the list as the destination of choice for international travellers for the third time in four years, according to the annual Mastercard global destinations cities index.
The annual Mastercard Global Destination Index (GDCI) based its findings on visitor spending, tourism growth and flight traffic from "feeder" cities.
The UK capital is projected to receive 18.7 million visitors (all of who stay at least one night) by the end of the year, an increase of 8 per cent on the year before. This is 300,000 more visitors than the 2013 top destination city, Bangkok.
Out of the 132 cities surveyed, last year's winner, Bangkok, came in second with an anticipated 16.4 million visitors, Paris third with 15.6 million, Singapore fourth with 12.5 million and Dubai fifth with 12 million.
Top ten cities in terms of international overnight visitors:
- London
- Bangkok
- Paris
- Singapore
- Dubai
- New York
- Istanbul
- Kuala Lumpur
- Hong Kong
- Seoul
Mastercard said the figures show a “huge opportunity” for London businesses to take advantage of international spending growth by providing a fast, safe and innovative payment experience to continue to make London the destination of choice for tourists.
Ann Cairns, president of international markets, Mastercard said: “The recognition of this year’s top international destinations reinforces the continued importance of cities as business, cultural and economic hubs.
“For London in particular, being recognised once again for its place as the top destination will further boost this city’s ability to continue to be a global leader, whether it is hosting events that shine a spotlight on this city to draw in further investment, or inspiring those within to drive economic growth.”