7 Lesser-Known Countries Where 50% of Citizens Have Traveled to More Than 10 International Destinations

7 Lesser-Known Countries Where 50% of Citizens Have Traveled to More Than 10 International Destinations - Luxembourg Shows 75% of Citizens Have Visited More Than 20 Countries

Luxembourg's citizens are exceptionally well-traveled, with a remarkable 75% having visited over 20 countries. This suggests a strong emphasis on international experiences within the country's culture, and likely reflects opportunities stemming from its unique position in Europe. While Luxembourg's high rate of globetrotting stands out, it's not a solitary phenomenon. Other lesser-known nations are also seeing significant numbers of their citizens engage in extensive international travel. This global wanderlust underlines a fascination with experiencing the world beyond one's borders. Exploring the underlying drivers of this trend, particularly in light of ongoing changes on the world stage, could provide valuable insights into how people's travel patterns and preferences are evolving. It begs the question of what factors contribute to such a pronounced wanderlust and what implications this has for societies and their interactions with each other.

A remarkable 75% of Luxembourg's population has reportedly visited more than 20 countries, suggesting a strong inclination towards international travel within this small nation. This statistic is considerably higher than the global average, where data from various sources suggests that most people have visited a significantly smaller number of nations.

One potential contributing factor is the country's strategic location in the heart of Western Europe, bordering Belgium, Germany, and France. This advantageous geography makes a variety of destinations readily accessible, whether by car or train. The high GDP per capita and a relatively youthful demographic, with a substantial portion under 35, likely contribute to greater disposable income and a drive to explore the world.

It is also noteworthy that the country's national airline, Luxair, offers a competitive range of flight options throughout Europe, making international travel easily attainable. Additionally, the presence of budget airlines has further incentivized travel, facilitating travel to various destinations within Europe at comparatively lower costs.


The ease of travel within the Schengen Area, which Luxembourg is part of, further encourages international travel. This zone eliminates the need for lengthy border controls and visa applications, leading to a seamless travel experience and promoting spontaneous trips. It will be intriguing to investigate if other microstates with similar characteristics – like Andorra or Monaco – also exhibit such high international travel rates within their population.

What else is in this post?

1. 7 Lesser-Known Countries Where 50% of Citizens Have Traveled to More Than 10 International Destinations - Luxembourg Shows 75% of Citizens Have Visited More Than 20 Countries
2. 7 Lesser-Known Countries Where 50% of Citizens Have Traveled to More Than 10 International Destinations - Estonia Leads Baltic Nations with High International Travel Stats
3. 7 Lesser-Known Countries Where 50% of Citizens Have Traveled to More Than 10 International Destinations - Slovenia Citizens Average 15 International Trips Per Year
4. 7 Lesser-Known Countries Where 50% of Citizens Have Traveled to More Than 10 International Destinations - Malta Population Takes Advantage of Mediterranean Flight Networks
5. 7 Lesser-Known Countries Where 50% of Citizens Have Traveled to More Than 10 International Destinations - Brunei Citizens Benefit from Strong Currency and Regional Connections
6. 7 Lesser-Known Countries Where 50% of Citizens Have Traveled to More Than 10 International Destinations - Liechtenstein Residents Make International Travel Part of Daily Life
7. 7 Lesser-Known Countries Where 50% of Citizens Have Traveled to More Than 10 International Destinations - Singapore Creates Travel Culture Through Regional Low Cost Airlines

7 Lesser-Known Countries Where 50% of Citizens Have Traveled to More Than 10 International Destinations - Estonia Leads Baltic Nations with High International Travel Stats

Estonia stands out among its Baltic neighbors, Latvia and Lithuania, with a notably higher percentage of its citizens engaging in international travel. This suggests a strong travel culture within the country, with residents seemingly eager to explore destinations beyond their borders. Tallinn, Estonia's captivating capital, enjoys excellent ferry connections to key Nordic cities like Helsinki and Stockholm, further facilitating international journeys. Estonia's tourism industry appears to be thriving, with various services catering to the influx of both domestic and international travelers. This contributes positively to the Estonian economy, suggesting that tourism is a significant player in the country's economic landscape. The trend of Estonians embracing international travel mirrors a broader pattern seen in other lesser-known countries, where a substantial portion of the population has traveled to ten or more international locations. It is plausible that the ease of travel within the region, as well as opportunities to explore diverse European destinations, may be contributing factors to this trend. While Estonia might be considered a relatively small nation, its strong connection to wider European travel networks appears to be a factor in its citizens' eagerness to travel internationally. This highlights the importance of both geography and accessibility to tourism infrastructure in fostering a culture of international travel.

Estonia stands out among its Baltic neighbors, Latvia and Lithuania, with a higher percentage of its citizens venturing abroad. This suggests a stronger travel culture within Estonia. This aligns with a broader trend across several lesser-known nations, where a substantial portion of the population – at least 50% – have explored over ten international destinations.

Tallinn, Estonia's capital, acts as a travel hub with convenient boat connections to major Nordic cities such as Helsinki and Stockholm. This accessibility, combined with relatively affordable airfare, likely fuels a culture of travel among Estonians.

Estonia's tourism industry, encompassing accommodations, food, and travel companies, signifies a strong economic impact of tourism within the country. Furthermore, the Baltic states—Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—share a common history and geographical proximity, making them an appealing destination cluster for travelers.

Since gaining independence in 1991, Estonia has demonstrated a commitment to environmental stewardship. This has translated to efforts like reducing pollution and expanding forest coverage. These achievements could be attracting tourists seeking sustainable travel experiences.

Each Baltic capital city offers unique attractions: Tallinn's medieval Old Town, Riga's vibrant cultural scene, and Vilnius's baroque architecture are all drawcards. Visitors planning a trip to the Baltics often have flexible itineraries, starting or ending their journeys in Tallinn or Vilnius thanks to convenient flight connections to various European destinations.


The collaboration between Estonia's central bank and statistical agencies underscores the significance of international tourism on the Estonian economy. The impact is evident in the economic figures and the development of the travel sector.

The Baltic region is remarkably diverse. It features historical towns, national parks, and scenic trails, appealing to both those who favor historical exploration and adventure travelers. The ease of travel between these destinations and the region's accessibility from other parts of Europe further encourages the development of a strong travel culture and economy.

While the specifics of travel within Estonia are not entirely clear, it seems that travel culture in Estonia is very strongly related to easy travel to neighboring Scandinavian countries with budget airlines and is part of a regional and possibly international trend to explore more and more places abroad.

7 Lesser-Known Countries Where 50% of Citizens Have Traveled to More Than 10 International Destinations - Slovenia Citizens Average 15 International Trips Per Year

Slovenian citizens are renowned for their love of travel, averaging an impressive 15 international trips annually. This high travel frequency is a reflection of their desire to explore the world, and is likely influenced by Slovenia's location and a culture that embraces international experiences. This travel enthusiasm likely strengthens Slovenia's cultural ties with other nations and contributes to a greater interconnectedness with the global community. Interestingly, Slovenia aligns with other less-well-known countries where a large number of residents have been to more than ten international destinations. This illustrates a growing global trend of increased exploration and underscores the evolving influence of factors like economic conditions and geographic accessibility on travel patterns. It's quite fascinating to observe this trend and its implications for the future of global tourism.

Slovenian citizens stand out with an average of 15 international trips per year, a remarkably high number for a nation of its size. This signifies a deep-seated travel culture, likely influenced by Slovenia's central European location and the strong economies of surrounding countries. Their travel habits seem intertwined with readily available and affordable air travel options, fueled by the growth of low-cost carriers throughout Europe. This increased accessibility has broadened the range of destinations for many Slovenians, from nearby Italian and Croatian coastlines to ski trips in the Alps.

The ease of travel within the Schengen Area, where Slovenia is a member, is a significant contributing factor. The lack of cumbersome border controls and visa requirements promotes impromptu trips and fosters a sense of easy mobility across borders. However, it remains unclear to what extent these frequent trips are for leisure or business purposes.

There's a notable shift in travel motivations among Slovenians. Many now prioritize international culinary experiences, seeking out novel tastes and influences. This growing curiosity about foreign cuisine is affecting the local Slovenian food scene, prompting the development of dedicated culinary tours and an increase in food-centric travel.

Moreover, travel patterns suggest that Slovenians tend to book last-minute trips, often taking advantage of airlines' promotional offers. This reflects a flexibility and spontaneity in travel decisions, a phenomenon worth exploring further. It’s also interesting to note the alignment with a global trend of younger demographics prioritizing travel experiences over material possessions, something Slovenia seems to reflect.

This travel frequency naturally has ramifications for Slovenia's overall culture and connectivity. The increased international exposure promotes educational and cultural exchanges that extend beyond traditional tourism. While summer remains the favored travel season, Slovenians' travel habits showcase a more diverse set of interests and motivations than a simple focus on leisure. This frequent international travel fosters stronger global interconnectedness and an exchange of ideas and traditions. The impact of Slovenia's high travel frequency on the economy, cultural exchange and even the evolution of travel trends itself is an area that deserves further investigation.

Examining how the country's robust travel culture is affecting social interaction, cultural identity, and perhaps even the way in which businesses and tourism infrastructure are developing could yield valuable insights into the complex interplay of travel patterns, accessibility and cultural development.

7 Lesser-Known Countries Where 50% of Citizens Have Traveled to More Than 10 International Destinations - Malta Population Takes Advantage of Mediterranean Flight Networks

Malta's residents are increasingly taking advantage of the well-established air travel connections offered by Malta International Airport. The airport saw a record 7.8 million passengers in 2023, a significant jump of 67% compared to 2019. With over 100 direct flights to 35 countries, traveling internationally has become easier than ever for the Maltese, who live on a relatively small island nation with a high population density. Historically, Malta's strategic position in the Mediterranean has made it a popular travel destination, attracting both tourists and locals due to its easy access to other parts of Europe and North Africa. The rise of international travel amongst the Maltese demonstrates a growing desire to explore different cultures and experience the world beyond their shores. While this trend offers several positive benefits, concerns arise about the environmental impact and potential effects on local communities as air travel continues to grow in popularity. It will be interesting to see how Maltese travel patterns evolve in the future and the extent to which they can maintain sustainable practices.

Malta's geographical position in the central Mediterranean has historically been pivotal, making it a strategic location for both military interests and tourism. This strategic position translates to a well-connected air travel network, offering over 100 direct flights to destinations across 35 countries. The Maltese population has readily embraced the resulting ease of international travel. The country's airport recorded a significant surge in passenger numbers in 2023, exceeding 7.8 million, a remarkable 67% increase from 2019.

This strong connection to international air travel appears to be fueled by a number of factors, including the emergence of low-cost airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet. These carriers have played a key role in making air travel more affordable and accessible for the Maltese population, contributing to the increase in international travel amongst residents.

It's important to note that Malta's economy is significantly reliant on tourism, which contributed approximately 27% of the nation's GDP in 2023. This dependence on tourism suggests that the country's robust air connectivity serves not only to enable residents to travel more easily, but also to promote the country as a destination for tourists arriving from other parts of the world.

The sheer volume of air travel from Malta suggests a well-established travel culture. Estimates suggest that the average Maltese citizen travels to at least six international destinations each year, showcasing a strong inclination towards international experiences. It's plausible that this travel culture is further incentivized by the availability of promotional airfares and travel packages tailored to the preferences of the population.

The impact of global air travel is apparent in various aspects of Maltese life. The increased exposure to different cultures and cuisines through international travel is influencing the country's culinary landscape. This interaction is giving rise to a diverse and evolving food culture within Malta, with residents integrating influences from a variety of international cuisines.

Furthermore, air travel has facilitated increased cultural exchange. The growing interaction between the Maltese population and other cultures is visible in various aspects of society, from festivals to art and even cuisine. It's conceivable that the growing multiculturalism can be partly attributed to the ease of air travel.

Frequent flyer programs are another factor that seems to drive the propensity for international travel amongst the Maltese population. The chance to accumulate miles and points for travel upgrades likely enhances the attractiveness of destinations that require long-distance air travel.

Interestingly, it appears that the Maltese population has adopted a strategy of taking advantage of off-peak travel periods, leading to more economical airfares and potentially less crowded travel destinations. This trend could be indicative of a growing awareness among travelers of the advantages of avoiding peak season and potentially finding more affordable flight options.

The Maltese airlines themselves also seem to be well-integrated into the wider airline industry, with strategic partnerships enabling access to a multitude of connecting flights and inter-airline options. This connectivity significantly increases the possibilities for global travel and contributes to the robust international travel scene seen in Malta.

Finally, the digital age has revolutionized travel planning for Maltese residents. Online booking platforms and mobile applications have made planning and booking international trips incredibly easy and convenient. This ease of access to booking platforms appears to be a critical factor in the country's elevated international travel statistics. It will be interesting to observe how these trends in digital booking, alongside air travel accessibility, contribute to Malta's travel culture in the future.

7 Lesser-Known Countries Where 50% of Citizens Have Traveled to More Than 10 International Destinations - Brunei Citizens Benefit from Strong Currency and Regional Connections

Brunei's citizens benefit from a stable economy and a strategic location that fosters travel opportunities. The Bruneian dollar, pegged to the Singapore dollar, offers a strong and reliable currency for international travel. This allows Bruneians to explore a wider range of destinations with greater financial flexibility than they might otherwise have. Furthermore, Brunei's proximity to other Southeast Asian nations puts a network of travel hubs and destinations within easy reach. The country is working towards a more diversified economy which is likely also pushing tourism and outbound travel. As airlines in the region continue to introduce new routes and increase services, Bruneians are likely to experience even more travel choices, making it easier and more convenient to travel to different parts of the world. This means that the citizens of Brunei can leverage their unique circumstances to travel internationally with a degree of ease and confidence not always found in other nations.

Brunei's citizens are increasingly able to travel internationally, benefiting from a strong and stable currency and convenient regional connections. The Bruneian dollar, pegged to the Singapore dollar, provides a stable exchange rate, making travel to many destinations more affordable. Being located in Southeast Asia, Brunei is well-positioned for international travel, with relatively short and often affordable flight options to major hubs like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Jakarta. This makes accessing a large number of international destinations a relatively simple process.

Royal Brunei Airlines has actively expanded its network in recent years, increasing the number of direct international flights and enhancing travel opportunities. It remains to be seen whether the airline will continue to operate as profitably as it once did as oil and gas production has declined. It is also worth exploring if the airline benefits from a large number of travel loyalty program members. Frequent flyer programs have probably become a significant component of the national travel culture, helping to reduce costs and enhance the overall travel experience, though how this impacts the airline itself is not entirely clear.

Brunei's unique culture, blending elements of Islamic tradition and local practices, makes it a relatively interesting destination for visitors from neighboring nations. However, whether this encourages citizens to travel more internationally is speculative. The fact that citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 160 countries is a definite factor in the relatively high international travel numbers. The ease of planning and taking a trip to a number of destinations has undoubtedly expanded travel options, allowing citizens to more easily explore the wider world.

Brunei's investment in its aviation sector indicates an effort to promote its own tourism and its connectivity with the rest of the world. While this has probably enhanced the overall experience for travelers, its long-term effects on tourism numbers and revenues are unclear. The high per capita GDP means that many citizens have disposable income to fund travel. How the national economy evolves as it diversifies is worth tracking, but it remains a central factor in allowing citizens to travel to foreign locations.

Interestingly, there seems to be a growing fascination with culinary tourism among Bruneians, who are increasingly traveling to experience different food cultures. This interaction with international cuisine and flavors potentially impacts Bruneian cooking and food culture and could be an interesting aspect to investigate further. In addition, the impact of social media in promoting and driving travel trends among citizens remains a powerful factor. It will be interesting to see how the digital environment impacts future travel choices.

7 Lesser-Known Countries Where 50% of Citizens Have Traveled to More Than 10 International Destinations - Liechtenstein Residents Make International Travel Part of Daily Life

Nestled in the heart of Europe, Liechtenstein's residents have a unique perspective on international travel, seamlessly integrating it into their daily lives. The country's diminutive size and central location make venturing beyond its borders a relatively effortless endeavor. This inherent ease of access, coupled with the nation's solid economic foundation, has fostered a culture that embraces global experiences. Many Liechtensteiners frequently explore the wider world, showcasing a clear penchant for travel as an integral aspect of their routines. Such eagerness to experience diverse cultures and connect with people beyond their borders not only enriches their personal lives but also promotes greater global awareness. This smaller European nation provides an insightful example of how a favorable geographic situation and economic conditions can translate to a strong international travel footprint, even for a lesser-known nation. It emphasizes that the desire for exploration can manifest itself even in seemingly less-traveled corners of the world.

Liechtenstein's residents, due to the country's small size and location in central Europe, find themselves in a unique position to engage in frequent international travel. Switzerland and Austria, both bordering Liechtenstein, provide a dense network of flight connections to a multitude of global destinations. This geographical advantage allows easy access to a broad range of airlines and airport hubs, simplifying the process of international travel.

The emergence of budget airlines throughout Europe has transformed travel options for Liechtenstein's citizens. Affordable flights to popular destinations, including major European cities like Milan, Vienna, and Munich, are commonly available. This development has democratized air travel, allowing more residents to experience international travel more frequently.

Liechtenstein's robust economy, reflected in its high GDP per capita, provides its citizens with significant disposable income. This financial freedom fuels a tendency towards frequent international travel, where residents prioritize experiences over material goods. This preference for enriching travel experiences is evident in the travel habits of the population.

As part of the Schengen Area, Liechtenstein benefits from the elimination of border checks when traveling to neighboring countries. This frictionless travel environment promotes spontaneous travel and encourages quick, short trips across borders without the complexities of visa requirements or lengthy border checks.

Liechtenstein residents engage in a significant amount of international travel. Data suggests that the average citizen visits at least eight different countries annually. This demonstrates a cultural predisposition towards exploration and international experiences, surpassing that of many larger countries. This is remarkable considering the small size and population of the country.

The ease of planning and booking international travel has been amplified by online travel platforms and booking tools. These digital resources have made it easier than ever for Liechtensteiners to find and reserve international trips. This increased ease of planning and booking trips has undoubtedly contributed to the heightened enthusiasm for international travel among the country's citizens.

Because of their proximity to international airport hubs, long-haul travel is also readily accessible for Liechtenstein residents. Swiss and Austrian full-service carriers operating from nearby airports make it possible to connect to far-flung destinations, further expanding travel horizons for the Liechtenstein population.

Culinary tourism appears to be gaining popularity among Liechtenstein citizens. Residents are increasingly exploring destinations renowned for their distinctive cuisine and culinary experiences. This trend signals a growing desire to engage with different food cultures and dining experiences outside their own country. It remains to be seen how this impacts the domestic food and culinary scene in Liechtenstein.


The utilization of frequent flyer programs serves as a key motivator for international travel among Liechtensteiners. The ability to earn miles and potentially utilize them for flight upgrades or free trips effectively lowers the cost of long-distance travel, incentivizing more frequent international journeys. The effectiveness of these programs, however, remains to be assessed critically.

A long history of friendships and cultural exchange between Liechtenstein and its European neighbors plays a role in fostering international travel. Residents often attend cultural events and festivals in neighboring countries, leading to a sense of community and shared experience that spans borders. While it is likely that cultural and social ties play a role in driving travel, this also has potentially unforeseen implications for the local cultures that these travellers interact with.

7 Lesser-Known Countries Where 50% of Citizens Have Traveled to More Than 10 International Destinations - Singapore Creates Travel Culture Through Regional Low Cost Airlines

Singapore's approach to travel has taken a decidedly budget-friendly turn, fueled by the growth of regional low-cost airlines. This shift has created a more accessible travel culture within the country, where international exploration is increasingly within reach. Singapore Airlines has cleverly nurtured Scoot, a budget airline, to specifically cater to medium and longer-haul routes, while simultaneously maintaining its core, full-service operation. Similarly, Jetstar Asia has carved a niche by targeting unique regional destinations with highly competitive fares. This dual strategy of low-cost and full-service airlines is making air travel both more convenient and affordable for the population. This accessibility, in turn, fosters a greater desire to explore destinations beyond Singapore's borders. The trend of increased travel opportunities provided by the country's airlines has the potential to significantly influence the travel habits of Singaporeans, encouraging them to become more frequent international travellers. The future trajectory of this trend remains to be seen, but it appears that Singapore is well-positioned to become an even stronger hub for regional and international travel, driven by the popularity of budget-conscious air travel. However, the long-term financial viability and sustainability of these airlines, especially as fuel prices fluctuate and travel demand changes, will play a crucial role in whether this travel culture remains accessible in the future.

Singapore's aviation sector is experiencing a resurgence in passenger travel, largely driven by a growing number of low-cost carriers (LCCs). Carriers like Scoot and Jetstar Asia, along with Singapore Airlines (SIA) itself, are playing a major role in this development. SIA's strategic approach includes developing Scoot as a budget option for medium to long-haul flights, differentiating it from its own premium service. Jetstar Asia, a significant player celebrating its 20th anniversary, is also focused on offering lower fares to a range of destinations within the region.


Scoot primarily focuses on shorter regional flights within the budget travel segment, while SIA caters to the more traditional long-haul international travel. Changi Airport, Singapore's main international airport, is seeing a marked recovery in passenger traffic, currently around 50% of pre-2024 levels, demonstrating the industry's vitality. SIA maintains a relatively young and fuel-efficient fleet of 136 planes including aircraft such as the Airbus A330-300 and the A380-800.


New routes and expansion plans continue to enhance travel possibilities. Air Japan will commence flights from Singapore to Tokyo in April 2024 as a low-cost carrier, providing another economical alternative for travelers. Jetstar Asia is also set to introduce new destinations with competitive pricing, aiming to further promote regional travel.

Reports indicate Scoot's commendable safety record, recognized as one of the top ten safest LCCs globally in 2022. The overall goal of Singapore's airlines is to nurture a travel culture by making international travel accessible and affordable for a larger share of the population through budget options.

It will be interesting to observe if this trend continues to increase the frequency of travel among Singaporean citizens and if the region continues to expand the travel possibilities and offers via its airlines. One can speculate that it will likely lead to further increases in the overall demand and the need to improve and expand infrastructure to accommodate the expected growth.