British Airways names Dubai one of top destinations for 2013

Paolo De Renzis, Area Commercial Manager Middle East and Central Asia, said the list for 2013 is a mix of new destinations and popular favourites.

"This list shows that while travellers are eager to visit well-established destinations such as Las Vegas and Dubai, they are also looking for something off the beaten path.

"Dubai has long been a destination of choice for Europeans looking for sun, sand and shopping, while at the same time, Dubai residents are looking for new cities and countries to discover. This list is just a small selection of the 175 destinations in British Airways' extensive network, which can be accessed with easy connections through London Heathrow's Terminal 5."

Richard Tams, British Airways head of UK & Ireland sales, said: "Undoubtedly consumers will continue to be driven by value-for-money next year, with routes such as Dubai, Cape Town and Bangkok already proving popular. We're also experiencing a real growth in Asia right now and responding to demand with a number of new routes, including Seoul and Sri Lanka."

Compiled by a panel of experts and using company data, in addition to Dubai, British Airways' top 13 destinations for 2013 include:

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: If the afterglow of the London 2012 Games has left you longing for more, then its next host Rio is the place to visit, as it gears up to 2016 Games, the 2014 Brazil World Cup, and FIFA Confederations Cup next year. With its famous sun-kissed beaches
to enjoy by day and fun parties at night, there's a lot to love about one of the most vibrant cities in the world.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: Nestled in the Spanish Caribbean, Punta Cana is earning itself a reputation as a great value destination for family holidays. Ash van Wensveen, British Airways' destination manager, said: "People are really waking up to Punta Cana. There's a real buzz from holidaymakers creating word of mouth on its affordability, fabulous hotels and beaches that dip into the Caribbean Sea."

Derry, Northern Ireland: Voted as the City of Culture for 2013, there's never been a better time to visit Derry. Just over an hour from Belfast, it's a great destination for the many celebrations and cultural events taking place there next year."

Las Vegas, USA: The classics never go out of fashion and with more services to Vegas than ever before, tourists hoping to party like Prince Harry need look no further. Top-end hotels, theatrical shows, exquisite restaurants and all-night entertainment continue to draw the crowds.

San Diego, USA: In the year that San Diego's Ron Burgundy returns to the big screen with Anchorman 2, the city reminds us why it's still classy. Great for golf, excellent for eating, brilliant for barhopping, California's best-kept secret is a great place to visit any time of year.

Alicante, Spain: The Spanish do fiesta like no one else and Alicante is a great city for those who prefer to fiesta over siesta. The Old Town offers dozens of bars and restaurants for after dark and is also host to a growing number of festivals. During the day the local markets are buzzing, and sandy beaches welcoming.