Global travel has nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels, according to the latest data from UN Tourism. More than 285 million tourists travelled internationally between January and March of this year, marking a 20% increase from the first quarter of 2023 and reaching 97% of pre-pandemic levels, the data shows. The Middle East experienced the greatest spike in international tourism during the first quarter of 2024, exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 36%, UN Tourism reports. Meanwhile, Europe topped pre-pandemic levels in a quarter for the first time since 2019 at a 1% hike, with Asia and the Pacific reaching 82% of pre-pandemic levels, Africa posting a 5% rise from pre-pandemic levels, and the Americas reclaiming 99% of its international tourism from 2019. "The recovery of the sector is very welcome news for our economies and the livelihoods of millions," UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said in the release. "Yet it also recalls the need to ensure adequate tourism policies and destination management, aiming to advance sustainability and inclusion, while addressing the externalities and impact of the sector on resources and communities," he added. UN Tourism projects a full recovery of international tourism in 2024, with arrivals growing 2% above 2019 levels. The slideshow above illustrates the most dangerous travel destinations outside the U.S. as determined by the U.S. Department of State. Related:

• Top rental markets for summer 2024
• Top business-loss concerns of 2024
• Hackers grow more sinister and brazen in hunt for bigger ransoms