When it comes to choosing an international travel destination for leisure or family vacations this summer, many business travelers consider international destinations and Western Europe continues to dominate the top 10 locations, according to 2010 data by the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA).

International travel by Americans represents a significant market for the travel destinations selected. More than 20 million Americans travel internationally during the summer.

And where do Americans plan to travel for the summer in 2010? ASTA identifies them as follows:

  1. London, UK (8.5%)
  2. Rome, Italy (8%)
  3. Paris, France (7%)
  4. Cancun, Mexico
  5. Punta Cana, Mexico

Other popular summer destinations include Barcelona, Venice (Italy) and Florence (Italy). And this year, Hong Kong is growing in interest, according to ASTA, making its first appearance in the top 10.

When examined in broader terms, Mexican destinations represented another major grouping in the international top 10 list. Taking into account both regions and countries, Mexico replaced Italy as the top location with a 15-percent share of the votes, while the United Kingdom again took second place with a 10.5-percent share. France (9.7%), Italy (9.4%) and the Caribbean (8%) completed the top five country/region list. The top five country/region listing has remained unchanged for more than five years.

Originally Published May 3, 2010