LAS VEGAS, NV--(Marketwired - May 09, 2016) - Diamond Resorts International® has outlined why travel is the number one way to learn about a new culture. An increasing number of Americans take vacations overseas and enjoy discovering a completely new way of life while enjoying a relaxing holiday. The number of U.S. passports being issued has risen dramatically every year since 2011, with more holiday-goers spending their time off from work outside of the United States.

Traditionally, Americans have chosen nearby Mexico and Canada as destinations, but recently more are going further and experiencing a greater variety of cultures from Hong Kong to Vienna. The National Travel and Tourism Office reveals that in 2014 most travelers chose Europe, the Caribbean, and Asia for holiday travel; Diamond Resorts International® has seen a surge in vacationers from the States to these areas.

Global travel is known to be inspiring as it offers a chance to relax and the opportunity to experience something new, whether travelling to Europe, the Caribbean, or Asia. Ireland, for example, is a country that is known for its picturesque countryside, warming cuisine and charming people, but it is also a place where tourists can enjoy hands-on archaeological tours, exploring castles and caverns of the island's past. Greece is another magnificent destination, with vibrant cities and towns nestled next to beautiful beaches. Vacationers can relax in the serene landscape with olive trees and red-topped roofs or spend time on Greece's breathtaking coastline. The country has exciting local cultural events taking place throughout the year, including the Athens and Epidaurus Festival and the Panellenic Celebration of Greek Traditional Dances.

Travel to Singapore to experience the Mooncake Festival, held every autumn with glowing lanterns, cultural performances, and delectable mooncakes. It is no wonder that many vacationers choose the Caribbean, with its turquoise waters and friendly people. The Bahamas is breathtaking in the summer when the Junkanoo parade takes place. This is an unforgettable carnival with flamboyant costumes, cultural dancing, enticing local food, and the pulsating sounds of authentic goatskin drums. Every destination is an opportunity to discover a new culture, while also having a revitalizing vacation experience. Diamond Resorts International® encourages travelers to explore new countries when planning a trip in order to take advantage of the many opportunities that can be found in different locations.

About Diamond Resorts International®

Diamond Resorts International®, with its network of more than 370 vacation destinations located in 35 countries throughout the continental United States, Hawaii, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, South America, Central America, Europe, Asia, Australasia and Africa, provides guests with choice and flexibility to let them create their dream vacation, whether they are traveling an hour away or around the world. Our relaxing vacations have the power to give guests an increased sense of happiness and satisfaction in their lives, while feeling healthier and more fulfilled in their relationships, by enjoying memorable and meaningful experiences that let them Stay Vacationed™.

Diamond Resorts International® manages vacation ownership resorts and sells vacation ownership points that provide members and owners with Vacations for Life® at over 370 managed and affiliated properties and cruise itineraries.

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